For One Night Only

An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication

www.ellorascave.com

For One Night Only ISBN # 1-4199-0792-1 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. For One Night Only Copyright© 2006 Beverly Havlir Edited by Heather Osborn. Cover art by Willo. Electronic book Publication: October 2006 This book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 443103502. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.

Content Advisory: S – ENSUOUS E – ROTIC X - TREME Ellora’s Cave Publishing offers three levels of Romantica™ reading entertainment: S (S-ensuous), E (Erotic), and X (X-treme). The following material contains graphic sexual content meant for mature readers. This story has been rated E–rotic. S-ensuous love scenes are explicit and leave nothing to the imagination. E-rotic love scenes are explicit, leave nothing to the imagination, and are high in volume per the overall word count. E-rated titles might contain material that some readers find objectionable—in other words, almost anything goes, sexually. E-rated titles are the most graphic titles we carry in terms of both sexual language and descriptiveness in these works of literature. X-treme titles differ from E-rated titles only in plot premise and storyline execution. Stories designated with the letter X tend to contain difficult or controversial subject matter not for the faint of heart.

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY

Beverly Havlir

Dedication To all the ladies who asked, clamored, demanded and begged for Michael’s story. This one’s for you.

To J, You’re still the one.

Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Lexus: Toyota Motor Corp. Mercedes: DaimlerChrysler AC Corp.

For One Night Only

Chapter One Hair? Check. Lipstick? Check. Lily McIntyre examined her reflection in the compact mirror. The eye shadow she had applied that morning was still intact, subtly accentuating her blue eyes. Her hair fell to the middle of her back in loose, soft curls. Snapping the mirror closed, she tossed it on top of her desk. She straightened her silk blouse and smoothed down the sides of her knee-length skirt. A deep breath helped quell the nerves tightening her stomach. Relax. You’ve been in there hundreds of times. It took ten steps to cover the short distance from her desk to the closed office door, not enough time to suppress the excitement unfurling inside her. After a momentary hesitation, Lily turned the knob and stepped inside. Her heart started to beat faster, as was its wont whenever she came within a few feet of the only man in the world who could reduce her to a bowl of quivering jelly. Michael Rutherford. He was standing behind a massive desk, facing a bank of windows with an impressive view of the Manhattan skyline. At six-foot-three, he had a commanding presence, his body tightly muscled but not bulky. Lily knew he worked out three, sometimes four times a week to keep in shape. His thick, dark hair was slightly mussed, as if he’d run his hands through it more than once. His profile was strong, thoroughly masculine, with a patrician nose and well-defined cheekbones that were softened by the sensuality of his lips. Still unaware of her presence, he absently loosened his tie, pulling at the designer silk knotted perfectly at his throat. For a few precious moments, Lily ate him up with her eyes. From the very first day she’d come to work for him, Michael’s compelling presence had affected her, heating her blood, sending sharp tingles of awareness shooting straight to her pussy. He’d flashed one of his charming, boyish smiles and just like that, she was a goner. How she’d made it through her first full day, she’d never know. Her

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head had been in the clouds, filled with fantasies about her new, sexy employer. She’d stolen numerous glances, admiring his mouthwatering physique, the way he filled out a designer dress shirt with his impressive torso and how his expensive wool trousers molded his fine, tight ass. Lily’s gaze drifted to his hands. His fingers were strong and lean, the nails cut short and blunt. How many times had she imagined him caressing her, running his wonderful hands all over her body? At the familiar fantasy, her nipples tightened painfully under her bra. One year on, and nothing had changed. She still had the hots for her boss. Just once she wanted him to look at her and see a woman, instead of a secretary. But all was not lost. Hope still lived in her heart. With his engagement called off, Michael Rutherford was once again a free man. Reining in her naughty thoughts, Lily approached him. The plush carpeting muffled her footsteps. Moistening her dry lips, she jumped when he suddenly swung around to face her. Awareness streaked down her spine as dark, velvety eyes focused on her. Taking a small breath, she pasted a smile on her face. “I brought the file you requested.” She winced at the huskiness of her voice. Mercy, could he tell she was trembling? “Thanks.” Her gaze was drawn to his mouth as he took the file and rifled through it. A sharp, intense longing rose to choke her. What would he taste like? An insane compulsion to sink her teeth gently into his lower lip was difficult to suppress, so she bit her own. A thick knot of hunger tightened her belly. This man dominated her thoughts and monopolized her dreams. In her fantasies, he’d sweep everything off the desk and ravish—no, devour—her right there. Her skirt wouldn’t deter him. He’d merely push it out of the way, rip off her thong and plunge his mouth between her thighs with a greediness born of uncontrollable hunger. And she’d let him. Absolutely, totally let him do anything he wanted. With pleasure. 6

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“Lily?” Michael frowned. “Are you all right?” With a snap, Lily came back to the present. A heated flush swept over her cheeks. She trembled with the need to reach out and touch him. “You’re shaking.” The gentle concern in Michael’s voice was almost her undoing. She swayed closer, aching to rub the painful tips of her breasts against his chest. God, she wanted to grab his hands and put them on her to alleviate the hot need tormenting her. “I-I’m fine.” She frantically sought to get herself under control. “Must be low blood sugar or something.” Michael’s grin was sexy and beguiling. “Is that why you always have candy on your desk?” “You noticed that?” “Of course. I notice a lot of things about you.” Giddy pleasure swelled inside her at his words. He noticed a lot of things about her? Hope fluttered in her heart. Maybe it wasn’t too farfetched to think that Michael would eventually notice her as a woman. But that hope died a quick, searing death when he dropped the file on his desk. The folder had partially concealed a framed photograph that lay on the polished table. Lily swallowed the lump that suddenly clogged her throat. His ex-fiancée’s pretty, smiling face stared up at her, mocking her with its presence. It had been close to a month since Michael’s engagement to Emma Fairchild had been abruptly cancelled. Had he been staring at the picture before Lily came in? Just like that, despair settled over Lily. “You miss her.” A faint grimace twisted Michael’s handsome features. His gaze flicked briefly to the photograph before he looked away. That was all the confirmation Lily needed. It was clear he still wasn’t over Emma.

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Supermarket tabloids and society pages alike had speculated on the reason why the much anticipated wedding uniting the Rutherfords and the Fairchilds—two East Coast, old money families—had been canceled. Michael had weathered the rabid attention silently, refusing to feed the wild rumor mill. Working with him everyday made Lily a witness to the pain he’d endured at the break-up. It hurt her to see him suffer like that. She’d thought he’d finally started to put everything behind him. But seeing Emma’s picture on his desk just now explained the faraway look she’d seen in his eyes. Desire, anger and jealousy roiled through Lily. She stifled a sob. Open your eyes and look at me. Whatever you need, I’ll give it to you. I’m right here! It was no use hoping. To Michael, she was nothing more than the person who efficiently organized his workday, who gave him what he needed when he needed it, anticipating his needs before he even knew what they were. Just not the sexual kind. The situation was untenable. The temptation to let him know how she felt—to hell with professional boundaries—was almost irresistible. Desperation mixed with sheer frustration nearly overwhelmed Lily. She clenched her fists. Why couldn’t Michael see her as a sexual woman? Defeat was a heavy weight on her shoulders. It was useless to hope that Michael would ever be attracted to her. The time had come to move out of Fantasyland and onto Reality Street. “Was there anything else you needed?” Like me? The unspoken words mocked her. Michael appeared slightly puzzled at her rigid stance. “With everything that’s happened recently, I know I haven’t exactly been easy to be around. I just want to thank you for all your hard work.” The corners of his lips tilted. “I haven’t been a bear to you, have I?” Hot tears clogged her throat. He was thanking her. Could things get any worse?

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“You’re important to me, Lily,” he continued, his voice deep and sincere, totally unaware of the turmoil she was going through. “I don’t know what I would do if you weren’t here to take care of things for me.” At his words, it finally sank in that Michael Rutherford would never see her as a woman. Never. She’d always be a secretary in his eyes. The last ounce of hope in Lily’s heart shriveled up and died. “Y-you’re welcome,” she managed to wheeze out before heading for the door. As soon as she was alone, she took several deep breaths, trying to stem the tide of tears. She was not going to cry. Picking up the phone with trembling fingers, she placed a call to the only person in the world who knew how she felt. “Hello?” For once, Anton Rodriguez’s mellow, lilting accent failed to comfort her. “It’s me.” “Querida.” “I can’t take it anymore.” Her voice broke. Anton was her sounding board, privy to her silent torture. He also happened to be Michael’s college buddy, whom she’d met during one of his numerous visits to the office. Anton’s long-suffering sigh whispered clear across the phone lines. “We’ve had this conversation many times, Lily.” She sniffled. “I’m done. I give up. I can’t go on like this.” “After a year of being in love with Michael? You’re giving up now?” Her heart splintered into tiny pieces. “It’s no use. Michael will never see me as a woman.” She choked back a sob. “He’s still in love with Emma.” “Michael is a fool,” Anton growled over the phone. “I don’t like to see you hurting so. He’s my friend. Let me talk to him and—” “No!” Lily lowered her voice. “You promised, Anton.” “Watching you pine for him has been an exercise in futility. For heaven’s sake, just tell him how you feel.”

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“I can’t,” she whispered brokenly. Laying herself open like that would be no use, especially when Michael clearly hadn’t gotten over his ex-fiancée. There was only one thing left to do. “Your party is coming up next weekend. Do you think Michael will come?” “Michael has long been a regular at my parties,” Anton replied dryly. “But he hasn’t attended one since he got engaged, and with what happened, he’s been pretty much in seclusion.” Anton’s lavish parties were very well known, a weekend gala for players in the Dom/sub game, whether they lived the lifestyle or just dabbled. Lily swallowed a sudden surge of jealousy at the thought of Michael participating in the erotic games that no doubt went on. “I think its time to put my plan into motion.” “Are you sure?” Anton’s voice rang with skepticism. “You’ve never done anything like this before. I don’t think—” “I’m ready. I want to do it. Please, Anton. Set it up for me.” “You’re willing to be a submissive for the night?” “Yes. To Michael.” Lily squeezed her eyes shut. “This party is the only way I can finally be with him.” “Have you thought about the consequences of your decision?” Anton asked quietly. “This is not something you should take lightly. You’re exposing yourself to something you’ve never done before.” “You’ve taught me,” she countered softly. Although she’d never played in the D/s scene before, she’d been intrigued when she found out Michael liked to indulge. By no means did he live the full lifestyle, but according to Anton, Michael enjoyed the scene and liked to play. She’d bought books and eagerly devoured them, absorbing all the knowledge she could. What she’d learned both stunned and aroused her, planting a deep longing to do those things with Michael. “That’s a far cry from experiencing the real thing.”

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“I’m ready. I’ve been ready for a long time.” “So I can’t change your mind, no matter what I say?” Lily straightened her shoulders. “It’s the only way.” “Fuck. Just the thought of helping to corrupt an innocent like you…” Bless Anton. He was always looking out for her. Despite her heartache, Lily mustered a smile. “I’m not such an innocent, you know. You just refuse to see it.” “If you’re sure about this…” “I am.” The excitement that swelled in her was tempered by sadness. This was her one and only chance to be with Michael. “Will one night be enough?” “It has to be.” “Be careful,” he admonished gently. “You might end up hurting yourself more by doing this.” “I know what I’m getting into. Will you help me?” “I’m going to hell for this,” Anton muttered before heaving a sigh. “Just remember I’m only doing this because I love you.” “I love you, too.” He snorted softly. “Yeah, like a brother.” “You don’t want me that way, Anton.” “Yes, I do,” he retorted. “But I want a woman who returns my feelings. It took me about two seconds to figure out how you felt about Michael. He was all you could talk about. A lesser man would have had his ego crushed that night, mi amor.” Lily remembered their only date all too well. She’d pumped Anton shamelessly for information about her boss. “I was honest with you from the start. I never wanted to hurt you.” “I’m a fast learner, querida,” he assured her dryly. “Unlike you, I’m not a glutton for punishment.” 11

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It hurt to hear it, but it was true. She was a glutton for punishment. For the past year, she’d hoped for the impossible. Loving Michael was like an addiction. To kick the habit, she had to get away from the source. “I’ll arrange everything. Let me know if you change your mind,” Anton offered. “I won’t.” With a murmur of thanks, Lily hung up. This madness had to stop. Her plan would work. It had to. This was the only way she could have a night with Michael Rutherford. After that, she would try to forget about him. One click of her mouse opened a blank document page. She began to type her resignation letter.

***** The gathering was already in full swing, a weekend-long affair dubbed the Black and White Party. The elaborate, carefully orchestrated bash was being held on one of the big estates on the north shore of Long Island, a place that reeked of old money and class. The guest list was exclusive and tightly monitored. To be invited was an accomplishment in itself, recognition of one’s involvement in the D/s community. In attendance were Doms, who were clothed all in black, and subs, who proclaimed their status by wearing white. Leaning against the bar, Michael Rutherford nursed a stiff drink and soaked up the party atmosphere. Murmured conversation and tinkling laughter rang in the air. Jazzy music oozed softly from unseen speakers, providing a sultry background to the sexually charged vibe that simmered just below the surface. His lips quirked with amusement. A side benefit of growing up with Anton was getting one of his coveted invitations. Though Michael didn’t live the lifestyle, he enjoyed the D/s scene enough to play. He was content to indulge occasionally, as a stress reliever and fun change of pace from the stuffy world of banking. Best of all, Anton’s parties were private and utterly discreet. What happened within the estate rarely, if ever, got out.

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Being a member of a high-profile family wasn’t an ideal life for a Dom. Michael didn’t want to expose his relatives to the games he liked to play. While engaged to Emma, he’d stayed away from Anton’s parties. He’d felt he owed her that. Now, although the wedding had been called off, he still felt no inclination to socialize. Until Anton had badgered him into ending his self-imposed exile by attending this party. After the hellish week he’d just had, he’d thought, why not? His secretary Lily had suddenly quit, making him realize how much he’d relied on her. Her replacement was a young woman who was currently going to night school to earn a business degree. Marie was smart and personable, but she wasn’t Lily. Michael was sure he’d been like a bear with a sore paw all week, but he couldn’t help it. The office just wasn’t the same without Lily. It felt…empty. He’d driven to Anton’s imposing turn-of-the-century mansion, hoping to find some respite from the restlessness eating away at him, even if only for a few hours. Now that he was here, Michael realized Anton’s invitation couldn’t have come at a better time. He needed to unwind and forget about work. The bartender tapped him on the arm. “For you, sir.” Michael glanced at the cream-colored envelope on the sterling silver tray. His name was scrawled across the expensive-looking vellum. Curiosity won out and he tore it open. Nestled inside were a key and a note that simply said An Invitation to Play in neat, feminine script. On the bottom, in smaller letters, it read Second floor, last door on the right. He sent a sweeping glance across the room, scanning the guests milling around, none of whom were familiar to him. Who could have sent him this? His decision to come hadn’t been cemented until this afternoon. For a brief moment, Michael balked at accepting the brazen invitation. Then again, why the hell not? A blistering session of erotic, teeth-grinding sex was probably what he needed right now. Tossing back his drink, he left the empty glass on the bar and headed up the stairs, taking two steps at a time. The plush, Oriental runner in the hallway muffled his steps as he approached the

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door. With a flick of his wrist, the lock gave way. The knob was cool to the touch as he twisted it, pushing the door open and walking inside. Recessed lights cast a soft, pale glow over the room. A woman knelt in the middle of the king-sized bed. Pristine gold sheets were stretched smooth and undisturbed beneath her legs and numerous plump pillows were piled high behind her. Michael approached on silent feet, more than a little intrigued. A curtain of thick, golden hair hid her face. A white corset hugged her body, cinched tight around her waist. The lush weight of generous breasts balanced precariously in the cups, nearly spilling over the top. Silky panties in the same deceptively innocent color encased her shapely hips, barely covering her mound. The overall picture was tempting and alluring, without trying too hard. The voluptuous body, the sexy corset and the submissive pose struck Michael like a sucker punch in the solar plexus. Excitement wound its way through his bloodstream, lighting every single nerve ending on fire. Lust was a violent pulse that centered on his suddenly alert cock. Heady arousal, something he hadn’t felt in a while, went straight to his head, fogging his mind, leaving no thought except to fuck. The woman raised her face and met his gaze. Michael’s heart skipped a beat. “Lily?” The word stuck in his throat. His thoughts skidded to a halt, unable to get past the realization that his former secretary stared back at him. Lily’s large blue eyes, as dark as a storm-tossed sea, met his. “Yes or no. That’s all you have to say.” The husky words penetrated the shock that had paralyzed his brain. In the small part of his mind that was still functioning, Michael realized that the surprise of seeing Lily hadn’t lessened the lust tightening his balls. The heavy drumbeat of need spread like thick syrup through his veins. His cock jerked eagerly at her beautifully presented body. But a part of him insisted on articulating the question banging around in his head. “Why?” 14

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Lily licked her full, red lips, sending a powerful jolt of lust through his loins. “Do you accept my invitation?” “You honestly don’t expect me to demand an explanation? Just a week ago, you were my secretary.” His voice came out raspy, scratching against his throat. Again and again, his eyes drifted to the magnificent globes that quivered ever-so slightly in the corset. Goddammit, had he had fucking blinders on for the past year? Her lashes fluttered. “I no longer work for you. Do you accept my invitation?” The breathlessness in her tone sent little fingers of heat wrapping around his engorged shaft. Although he was stunned, eaten up by questions he wanted answers to, he was also a man—one experiencing normal reactions when faced with an invitation like this. But still… “I want an explanation.” Lily’s creamy skin flushed a dusky rose color, the soft, enticing shade spreading over her cheeks. “I imagine things are pretty self-explanatory.” Michael raked a hand through his hair. “Why?” The deep breath she took pushed her chest out further. Jesus. Any minute now, her breasts were going to spill out of the tight corset. He cleared his throat. “Aren’t I entitled to an answer?” “You’ve been to these parties before.” Her tone was the slightest bit defensive. “Do you ask every woman for an explanation before you agree to play?” He clenched his jaw. “None of them worked for me. And none of them quit abruptly, without any reason.” Lily lifted her chin, a trace of defiance in her luminous gaze. “The invitation didn’t include explanations. If your answer is no…” “I didn’t say that.” He might be crazy but he wasn’t stupid. “Lily, you’re not a stranger to me. This takes some getting used to. I mean, I never expected that you would…” Once again, his eyes swept over her. He couldn’t seem to think beyond wanting to rut between those toned legs and fuck the hell out of her. Shit. It felt like all the blood had drained from his brain and pooled in his cock. “What exactly are you offering?” 15

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Relief flashed swiftly on Lily’s otherwise expressionless face. “A night of pleasure. You. Me. Anything you want.” The statement hit him with the precision of a laser-guided missile. “Anything?” Lily glanced at the assortment of vibrators, nipple clamps, floggers, whips and medium and large-sized anal plugs on the white linen-covered table at the side of the bed. “Anything,” she confirmed huskily. Michael stepped to the edge of the mattress. “So I’m supposed to fuck you any way I want?” She gave a barely discernible flinch at his deliberately crude words. “You’re no stranger to parties like this. You know how it works. I’m offering you my body for a night of pleasure.” “And you want to be a sub?” “Your sub.” Michael could barely think. His wits were fried. All he wanted to do was rip off that silly little nothing she had on and pound his cock into her pussy. “Would it be easier to think of me as a stranger?” There was one last moment of sanity where his gentlemanly instincts broke through, briefly winning over his more insistent baser nature. “You worked for me for a year. I never even thought—” Lily lowered her head. “You don’t want to have sex with me.” To hell with being a gentleman. He could get his answers later. Much later. It didn’t take long to unbutton his shirt and toss it somewhere behind him. He toed off his shoes and pulled off his socks. His trousers soon followed, along with his boxers. The way her eyes grew round upon seeing his erection brought a twinge of pride to his chest. “Have you done this—been a sub—before?” “N-no.”

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Her answer was as potent as any aphrodisiac. “Being a sub isn’t just about pain. It’s giving over control to someone else. To me.” He placed a knee on the bed, his cock sticking out straight as a pole. “I will strip you of your inhibitions, push aside your fears and make you the sexual creature you are. If you’re not sure about this, tell me now.” “I’m very sure.” Her voice rang clear and true. “Anything I want?” The color suffusing her cheeks deepened. “Yes.” Michael tipped her chin up. “I accept your offer. In the end, I will get my explanation.” He let the statement sink in. “Safe word?” Lily eyes were huge and dark. “I-I don’t have one.” “That’s foolish.” “You won’t hurt me.” “Never compromise your safety. What if you’re not with me?” Somehow the thought of another man laying a hand on her smooth, perfect skin left a bad taste in his mouth. “Let’s keep it simple. If you’ve had enough, just say your name.” “All right.” Her tongue snaked across her lower lip, leaving a damp trail across the sensuous curve. There was an inherent sensuality in the subtle writhing of her hips on the bed, in the way she continually arched her breasts toward him in offering. God, she was so ready and willing. Just for him. He gestured for her to come closer. With a fingertip, he idly traced her tempting, sinful lips. “Take me in your mouth. Pleasure your Master.”

A jolt of lightning hit Lily, zapping her already frayed nerves. Michael stood before her in all his naked glory, her fantasy come to life. His engorged shaft was level with her face, thick, broad and unashamedly aroused. Need swept over her like a rampaging bull. Slow down. There were many hours left in the night. Plenty enough for her to

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satisfy the need she’d nurtured for twelve long months. Tonight, she was going to take her fill. For the moment, Michael saw her as a desirable woman, not just an efficient secretary. The hard stalk of flesh in front of her was proof of that. Pleasure your Master. The words were a catalyst, igniting a deep, pulsing need centered in her pussy. Yes, God, yes. Anything he wanted, she was more than ready to give to him. Lily licked the soft skin that hid steel underneath, working his cock inside her mouth. It was a tight fit, but that didn’t deter her. It only made her more determined. Feminine pride dictated that even if it was only for one night, she would be the best Michael ever had. His taste was faintly musky, tangy and all male. She applied herself to the task of pleasuring him, moaning at the contrast of supple skin and tensile strength. “Easy,” he instructed gruffly. “Nice and slow.” Wanting to drive him as wild as she was, she tongued the slit on the broad head and laved it with butterfly-soft touches. His muted groan broke the silence in the room. He thrust his hips against her, slipping deeper inside. Yes. Let me have more. Strong yet gentle hands curved under her jaw, his fingers splayed over her throat as he fucked her mouth with short, deliberate strokes. He was careful not to choke her, but he ventured as deep as he could. An indecent thrill ran through her. She looked up, seeing the faint twist of his lips, the tight set of his jaw. This is what she was meant to do, to pleasure him until he was straddling the edge of control. Until all he could think of was the white-hot satisfaction she could give him. “I’m coming,” he declared in a low, faintly unsteady voice. “Open wide, Lily. Show me how much you want it. Don’t lose a single drop.” She nodded, as much as she could with his tight hold on her face. A soft grunt was all the warning she got before she felt the hot splash of his seed inside her mouth. Lily fought to keep her gaze on his handsome face as he came. She wanted to witness his ecstasy, to commit to memory the exact moment—the darkening 18

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of his eyes, the flare of his nostrils and that little catch in his breath—when she made him lose control. It was her fantasy come true. Lily ran her tongue boldly up the underside of his cock as he slowly withdrew from her mouth. The taste of him lingered as she licked her lips. Her heart raced with exhilaration and need. She was far from satisfied. Michael strolled to an oversized chair across the room and sat down. “Come here.” She slid off the bed as gracefully as she could and approached him on shaky legs. He watched her with brooding, intent eyes. Her nipples tightened painfully as his heavy-lidded gaze fell to her breasts. “Take off the corset.” It wasn’t easy to unravel the ties at the back and she had to lean slightly forward to do it. The loosened corset hung on the tips of her breasts for a second before falling to the floor. “Turn around. Take your panties off slowly.” At the softly muttered order, arrows of heat shot directly to Lily’s pussy. She wanted to show him her wild side. To drive him crazy with desire before the night was over. She turned her back on him and fingered the sides of the silk underwear. With a sexy little wiggle, she pulled it down over her hips, slowly baring her buttocks. Lily stole a glance over her shoulder. The intense concentration on his face spurred her on. Emboldened, she revealed her backside in small increments, teasing him with slow, swaying movements. She made the most of the moment, drawing it out before pushing the panties all the way down to her feet and kicking them away. “Spread your legs and bend over. Hold your ankles.” Lily’s heart tripped at the command. The deep timbre of his voice was hypnotic, compelling. Anything he wants. Bent at the waist, her legs spread wide and her hands wrapped around her ankles, a feeling of wickedness stole over her. She felt like a new woman. Naughty. Daring. Fearless. If she could make him feel a tenth of the lust that had been torturing her for so long, then it would be worth it. 19

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Lily observed him upside down from between her thighs. Wetness seeped from her slit at the hot, unblinking gaze he trained on her just-waxed sex. “Touch yourself.” A whimper escaped her lips at the exquisite torture he was subjecting her to. She placed a trembling hand on her pussy. “Michael—” “Play with your clit.” It was said dispassionately, at odds with the fire in his eyes. Fighting for a measure of control, Lily ran a finger around the sensitive bundle of nerves that poked impudently from between her swollen lips. She gritted her teeth at the pleasure. She was too wet, too aroused to last long. “You can’t come yet.” Her breath whooshed out. “N-no?” “Not until I say you can.” Michael leaned back and indicated her discarded underwear with his hand. “Bring me your panties.” She took a moment to steady herself before she picked up the little bit of silk and handed it to him. A scorching tingle worked through the drenched folds of her sheath when he immediately sniffed the moist crotch. A small smile tilted the corners of his mouth. “Sit on the edge of the chaise.” The seat Michael indicated was firmly padded, crimson-colored and positioned at the foot of the bed, directly across from where he sat. “Show me your pussy.” Feeling like a sex kitten on display, Lily parked her tush at the edge of the cushion and opened her legs wide. “Smooth and hairless. I like it.” Lily waited breathlessly when he got to his feet, hoping he’d come close enough to touch. Disappointment crashed into her when he switched directions and instead perused the sex toys she’d arranged on the table. The wicked intent in his face brought a warm flush to her skin. He gathered up a few items and tossed them on the edge of

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the bed, within arm’s reach of her. Her heart tripped when Michael fingered a length of woven rope made of some kind of soft material that wouldn’t scrape the skin. He’s going to tie me up. He came back to her side and gestured for her to stand. With an expertise she would rather not dwell on, Michael looped the rope over her shoulder and under her arm, pulling it under the curve of her right breast and into the valley between them before finally tugging it around the outside of her breast. After the left one was similarly bound, he tied the ends behind her, effectively forming a rope bra. Lily trembled. The rope lifted and squeezed the mounds at the same time, not painfully, but with firm pressure. Blood pooled in the tips, elongating them into tight points of sharp, tingly sensation. Michael’s gaze was dark and hot, focused on her tethered flesh. She licked her lips. “Michael?” “Master.” There was no discernible inflection in his voice but the command was unmistakable. “Master,” she repeated. Just for tonight. “Do they hurt?” “No,” she whispered. “I just…” Her breasts felt heavy, the tips engorged with need. “C-could you touch them?” She moaned, the stinging in her nipples escalating. “Please.” “Like this?” He kneaded the pliant flesh in a circular motion, sending more blood rushing to the distended crests. At her cry, he pinched them firmly, sending jolts of fiery sensation streaking through her body. “That’s enough for now.” “No! Please.” It wasn’t even close. Lily ached to rub them herself for relief. Michael touched her bottom lip. “All in good time.” He reached for the whip he’d tossed on the bed earlier, encasing the thick, squat grip in his fingers. Which one was this? Lily frantically tried to remember the different kinds of whips Anton had shown

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her. Isn’t one the same as the other? she’d asked. Anton had laughed and declared she’d find out the difference when the time came. The whip Michael had chosen had soft fringes about ten inches in length. He walked in a circle around her, trailing the tasseled ends down her arms and around her torso. Then he stopped, moving out of sight. Lily stood still, waiting with bated breath, anxiously anticipating what he was going to do next. She tensed when a black cloth came over her eyes. “Do you have fantasies, Lily?” Darkness engulfed her. “Y-yes.” “Tell me about them.” Oh God. “T-they’re just fantasies, like anybody else’s.” “You have to learn never to question, hesitate or disagree with me.” His tone was low, but his displeasure was clear. “All or nothing. Otherwise we stop this right here, right now.” He stepped away from her. Lily instantly missed the warmth of his body. “No! I-I don’t want to stop.” There was a moment of silence. Then his breath feathered over her too-hot skin. “I’m waiting.” Mercy. He was asking her to lay herself bare, to divulge her innermost thoughts— and he starred in all of them. “Are they fantasies of you and me together?” She bit her lip and nodded. “Even better. Go on.” The blindfold somehow gave her courage. “I’m working late,” she began softly. “Eeverybody else has gone home. The office is deserted. Quiet.” “Yes?” He ran the whip over her belly and around her hips, pressing just enough to make her shiver in reaction.

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This particular fantasy was her favorite, one that sustained her through long, lonely nights. As always, the familiar scenario began to work its magic on her. “I’m leaning over my desk when you come up behind me.” Michael moved closer. “Like this?” Lily wet her lips. “You order me to stay still and not to turn around. You put your hand under my skirt and slide it up my leg.” She jumped when a hot, dry palm landed on her thigh. “T-then you touch me…” Strong fingers fluttered over her skin. “Here?” “No,” she whispered, trembling. “Higher.” “Here?” “No,” she moaned. “Tell me exactly where I touch you.” “M-my…” “Pussy?” he prompted. “Cunt?” She quivered at the crude words but didn’t find them offensive. They seemed appropriate for a night stripped free of inhibitions. A night for fantasies. “Yes. Right there.” “Say it.” He was pushing her beyond anything she’d ever done before. “You touched my cunt.” His fingers plunged between her legs. Her knees buckled as she sought to keep her position. A whimper escaped her lips. “Continue,” he ordered. Like she could calmly continue with his fingers buried in her pussy. “Y-you make me come.” Michael chuckled huskily. “Nice try, slave.” He placed his lips against her ear. “I tell you when you can come.” He explored the wet folds of her pussy, stroking fast and deep. 23

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Lily mashed her pelvis against him, trying to put her clit on a direct collision course with his palm. Groaning in frustration, she tilted her head. “M-Master, please,” she begged, breathless. “Do you want to come, Lily?” “Oh, yes.” “Not yet, I think.” Michael suddenly withdrew. Disappointment crushed her. She’d been so close. A second later, he placed his fingers on her lips. “Taste yourself. Lick them clean.” Lily obeyed, running her tongue over each of the digits. She squirmed, trying to rub her thighs together in a desperate effort to find relief. God, she needed to come so bad. Sweat broke out on her skin as she was pushed to the end of her control. “Please,” she moaned. Michael led her a few steps to her left. He wrapped her arms around one of the thick columns of the four-poster bed and tied her wrists with soft and silky cloth. He kneed her legs apart and pushed her slightly forward. In this position, her ass was exposed and vulnerable. Ohmigod. He skimmed his lips over her shoulder. “Any other fantasies?” “Y-you don’t want to hear all of them.” “Ah, but I do,” he corrected. Teasing fingers fluttered over her achy, swollen nipples. “I just wish you’d told me about them before tonight.” “I didn’t have the nerve.” Because you’re in love with another woman. He licked the side of her neck. “No matter. We’re here now.” He squeezed her breasts firmly. “In your fantasies, do I fuck you on top of my desk?” Lily smothered a gasp at the pain and pleasure of his touch. “Uh-huh.” Being bound and helpless, letting him do what he wanted with her, was almost enough to send her hurtling over the edge. He sucked on her skin. “Where else?”

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“E-everywhere,” she gasped, arching to give him more room, loving the brand of possession she’d surely carry in the morning. “Do you let me do everything I want?” he murmured, driving her insane. “God, yes.” Michael rotated his flat palms against the painfully sensitive tips of her nipples. “I fucked you in your pussy?” She couldn’t speak, just jerked her head in agreement. “In your ass?” Lily’s breathing became rapid and shallow. “Will you let me fuck your ass tonight?” At her hesitation, he nuzzled her ear. “I thought tonight was about fulfilling fantasies? No holds barred.” He shifted closer and rubbed his erect shaft against her buttocks. “That’s my fantasy. Ever since I had my first glimpse of these,” he squeezed the plump cheeks, “that’s all I’ve thought of.” He tugged her hair back, tipping her face toward his. “Will you let me fuck you there?” At the throbbing desire in his voice, Lily managed a shaky nod. “W-whatever you want.” “Good,” he grated against her skin. “But we have plenty of time. No need to rush.” He gave her buttock a tap. “Have you ever been spanked?” Good heavens. She shook her head. “Is that another one of your fantasies?” Lily turned her face blindly toward him, shaking. “I…” His hands curved around her front to her roped breasts, tugging at the aching tips. The blood-engorged crests tingled with a breath-robbing mixture of pain and pleasure. She cried out softly. “Would you like to be spanked?” he rasped, his movements deliberate. Pulling. Pinching.

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“Yes,” she gasped. She needed to come so bad. When he stepped back once more, she uttered a low moan of protest, sagging against her bonds, panting. Laying her forehead on the warm, thick wood, she fought the urge to plead for sexual release. “Your ass is tempting, Lily. It’s begging to be spanked.” Just then, a crisp swat landed on her ass. Lily jumped. For a brief moment, it stung like crazy. The heat that lingered in its wake swirled around the spot where the blow had landed. In a daze, she wondered what he was using. It felt flat and firm. A riding crop? A second swat landed on the opposite cheek. The same fiery sensation whipped through her, leaving her ass stinging with heat. “Ummph.” “You’re not supposed to make any noise.” Michael licked her ear. “I’m afraid that’s earned you some more.” The atmosphere in the room thickened. Lily braced herself. Her breath hitched as another stinging whack landed on her ass. Flames raced directly from her backside to the sopping folds of her pussy, feeding her need as desperate hunger rushed through her body. Nothing else mattered except the delicious feeling of the riding crop as it met her skin. She thrust her hips back. Joyfully. Willingly. Oh yes. Almost there… Then he stopped. Lily whimpered. “No!” His arm snaked around her front to fondle a roped breast. “Patience is a virtue. I decide when you can have your pleasure.” She shuddered. “M-Michael. Master…” His hand coasted down to her pussy. With two fingers, he swirled her cream around, coating her already moist labia before pushing inside in deep, devastating strokes. Pushed to the brink, Lily bucked in his arms, grinding against his palm. “Fuck me.”

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But once again, he left her on the verge of ecstasy. Her breath came in harsh pants as unfulfilled need thrummed through her in painful waves. A protest hovered on the edge of her tongue, was a moment away from being voiced out loud when Michael applied something cold and thick on the puckered ring of her anus. Her stomach hollowed as Michael spread the lubricant in and around the tight orifice with slow, deliberate movements. Mercy. This was unfamiliar territory. Was she ready for this? She tried to speak, but the words remained locked in her throat. By the time he was done, Lily was well lubed, inside and out. Her thoughts were hazy, fogged over with hot anticipation. But all that washed away when something solid brushed against the slick entrance of her ass. “I’m putting a plug inside you,” he murmured in her ear. “We’ll start you off with one that will stretch you.” One hand gripped the plump curve of her buttock. “Prepare you for me.” Excitement sizzled inside her. The slow penetration of the plug’s tapered tip ignited a smoldering ache deep in her pussy. She wanted to feel the burn. She wanted to feel the pain. Just for Michael. Her clit began to throb as he slowly pushed through the protesting muscles. It was unlike anything she’d ever felt before, a strange, unfamiliar pleasure tightening her womb. “Michael,” she whimpered, clenching her fists and straining against the cloth that bound her wrists. “Almost inside.” His words were hypnotic, lulling her senses. Unused muscles stretched to accommodate the toy, pain no longer separable from pleasure. It was one huge sensation that combined to inflame the urgent need inside her. “This is how I’m going to feel when I take you here,” he whispered. “Feel it, Lily.” She caught her breath when the thickest part of the plug lodged through the opening. Her senses exploded, her thoughts scattered. Michael held it there, steady, unmoving, letting her feel the scorching possession. It was nearly unbearable. “Please, please, give me all of it, Master.”

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He pushed it all the way in. Her lungs expanded on a deep breath. The initial discomfort passed after a few moments, followed by an exquisite fullness that was sharp and delicious. Michael untied her wrists and pulled off the blindfold. He made short work of the rope bra before leaving her side. Lily whimpered at the sharp, painful tingling that engulfed her as blood rushed to her breasts. She swayed and blinked to focus her gaze, seeking him out. Propped up by some pillows, Michael leaned back against the headboard. His erection lay straight on his stomach, thick and heavily veined, topped with a broad head. His hand stroked from the root of the shaft to the tip and back in a lazy, caressing motion. “Come here.” Lily took one step and stopped. The plug made it difficult to walk. Her progress was slow, measured, as she clenched to make sure it stayed in place until she reached his side. “Ride me.” Her pulse tripped. This was it. The moment she’d been waiting for, been dreaming of, since the very first day she went to work for him. She swung a leg over him, straddling his hips. “Put me inside you.” His cock was hot to the touch. The skin was soft but he was hard as steel underneath. The contrast made her shiver. Lily positioned the head at her slit. The plug made it tough to take his long length in one greedy stroke like she wanted. She took him in slowly, in small teeth-grinding degrees, her breath hissing at the unbearable pleasure. Oh, my. It was excruciatingly tight and felt so good. Michael’s eyes darkened. “Your pussy feels like a wet glove.”

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Lily sucked in a breath, trembling, working his cock deeper until he was in all the way. A sigh of pure bliss feathered from her lips. Michael gripped her waist, squeezing briefly before venturing up to her breasts. “You can move now.” Lily undulated on his lap. The movement jarred the plug. She whimpered, clamping her muscles around the toy, the pressure driving her crazy every time she bore down. “Do you like me fucking you with your ass plugged?” Her juices trickled down her upper thighs, further wetting her, coating his hard shaft. Her clit throbbed, begging for relief, burning, swelling painfully. Blistering vibrations radiated from her ass to her pussy, zeroing in on her greedy, hungry womb. “I-incredible.” Michael plunged his hand into her hair, tipping her face back. “Fuck me harder, Lily. Show me how much you want me.” The noticeable strain in his voice, the bunched muscles in his thighs, signaled that he was far from controlled. Though it wasn’t easy, she eventually got the rhythmic motion of tightening on his cock and on the plug. Small, breathless sounds of enjoyment floated from her lips. The year of fantasizing, dreaming and wanting paled in comparison to the real thing. All the lonely nights she’d spent dreaming of Michael faded into memory. Having him inside her was the most unbelievable feeling in the entire world. Her heart swelled. “May I kiss you, Master?” Faint lines of tension edged the sensuous curve of his mouth. “You may.” Thrilled, Lily wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. The shock of the contact sent a hard shudder rippling through her body. Unexpected tears came to her eyes. This was so much better than anything she imagined. Quick, fleeting touches turned into longer, deeper, tongue-tangling contact. Lily’s heart splintered into tiny pieces. I love you.

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With a growl, Michael flipped their positions. Lily barely pulled in a breath before he started pounding into her with animalistic intensity. His cock tunneled in and out of her pussy with amazing speed and depth. A powerful tingling raced from her toes to her spine, generating a mighty, unstoppable wave. She’d been kept on edge for too long to hold off her orgasm. With a cry, Lily came. It wasn’t long before Michael succumbed too. The hot wash of his seed filled her mere seconds later. Still caught in the throes of pleasure, Lily derived as much enjoyment from the harsh groan he uttered as the rhythmic clenching of his cock while he spewed deep inside her. It was an amazing ending to a thrilling ride, and she rode it out for as long as she could. When it was over, she lay boneless on the bed, relishing the feel of her damp skin sliding against his. Michael slumped over her, enclosing her in his arms. Lily felt a profound intimacy with him that she’d never felt before. Her eyes welled with tears. Concern shadowed Michael’s gaze. “Did I hurt you?” “No. It’s nothing. Just…nothing.” “Lily, if you want to stop, just tell me.” Despite his words, his cock began to grow once more inside her. “I don’t want to stop.” “You want more?” “Yes.” She returned his kiss, her heart filled with happiness. “Definitely, Master.”

***** As the fingers of dawn spread out over the sky, Lily eased from the bed. Michael was sprawled on the bed, in deep sleep. She pulled on her clothes and quietly gathered her things, stuffing everything in a tote bag. Last night had been unforgettable, but it was over. Goodbye, Michael.

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Stepping from the room, Lily swallowed the tears clogging her throat. At the end of the hallway, a lone figure stood waiting. Anton glanced at her with concern. “You okay?” She nodded, unable to speak. “It’s for the best, querida,” he reminded her gently. “I know.” Her breath hitched. “I just didn’t expect it to hurt so much.” “This too shall pass.” He flung an arm over her shoulder. “Ready?” He led her down the graceful sweep of the stairs and out the front door where his car waited. Her magical night with Michael was over.

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Chapter Two “Earth to Lily.” Fingers snapped right under her nose. Lily looked up, startled to find three pairs of eyes focused intently on her. “I’m here.” The popular sports bar was full to bursting during happy hour, crammed with attractive singles unwinding after a long day’s work. The noise level was close to deafening and Lily was uncomfortable with the meat-market atmosphere, the men sizing up the women and vice versa. Kylie’s blue eyes sparkled as she chuckled. “The light’s on but nobody’s home.” Maddie shook her head, her thick, glossy curls bouncing on her shoulders. “Lily, are you all right? You have that faraway look in your eyes again.” “Tell us what’s on your mind when you zone out like that,” Amanda invited. With dark green eyes set against pale skin and stunning red hair, she drew many second glances from the male patrons of the bar. “I don’t zone out.” Maddie released a sigh. “As your cousin, I’m compelled to be honest with you. It’s been four months since you moved here from New York. There are times, like now, when your thoughts are obviously far away and you get this sad look on your face. We’re beginning to get worried.” Lily flushed. Maddie and her best friends Kylie and Amanda had been nothing but kind to her since she’d arrived here in L.A. “Sorry. I just have a lot on my mind.” “Are you having problems with your new job?” Amanda asked with faint concern. “Anything we can help you with?”

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“No, no. Everything’s fine at the agency,” Lily quickly assured them. So far, things had gone smoothly at the realty firm where she’d worked since her arrival. While working to get her real estate license, she’d hired on as a clerk. Her boss, Norm Hollister, had generously promoted her to agent after she passed her licensing exam two weeks ago. “Then it’s something else,” Maddie concluded, her brow furrowing with gentle concern. “You’re a recluse. You agree to go out with us only when we twist your arm. What’s worse, you’ve absolutely refused to go out on dates with some really hot men.” Maddie was right. She’d been living like a zombie these past months, going through life on autopilot. Simply put, she missed Michael. “It’s a man,” Kylie declared in a matter-of-fact tone. “A woman only acts like that because she has a man on her mind.” Kylie was too damn astute for her own good. Lily was about to deny it when Maddie spoke up. “Tell us. Sometimes it helps to talk about it.” Maddie squeezed her hand. “Amanda and Kylie were the ones who helped me get through my divorce from Gavin.” “You were divorced?” Lily asked, surprised. “But you two are so…so…” “Touchy-feely?” Kylie supplied teasingly. “All over each other?” Amanda added with a grin. “Maddie and Gavin give new meaning to the term public displays of affection.” “Umm…yeah,” Lily agreed. Maddie rolled her eyes. “Gavin and I went through a real rough patch. We were divorced for a short time.” Lily was surprised to hear that. It was obvious how much Maddie loved her husband. “How did you two get back together?” Amanda snickered. “It was true love. They realized they couldn’t live without each other.”

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“Must be nice,” Lily quipped lightly, aware of a sudden ache in her heart. She’d never have a forever-after with Michael. “Yes, it is. Now tell us what’s going on with you.” It was obvious Maddie was intent on the subject. The three women looked at her expectantly. Lily struggled to diffuse the melancholy that surrounded her like a cloud. “It’s not easy relocating to a new city. It’s just taking a while for me to settle down.” “Bull,” Kylie chided lightly. “Do you remember Sam, my friend from work? He fell for you like the proverbial ton of bricks. But every time he called to ask you out, you turned him down. Very politely, I might add, but you declined just the same.” Sam was attractive and nice, but he didn’t even come close to Michael. Maddie and her friends would set her up with every single man in L.A. if she let them. Lily attempted to smile. “I don’t really know how to explain it. I just haven’t felt like dating, that’s all.” “How about the truth?” Amanda prompted. “We’re your friends and we’re concerned about you.” Kylie shot her a shrewd look. “There’s a man, isn’t there?” Damn, but they were persistent. “There was a man,” Lily finally admitted, striving for a nonchalant tone. “But he’s back in New York. It’s over.” “Oh, honey.” Maddie wrapped an arm around her. “You need to let go and forget about him. It’s time to move on.” “I am.” But the looks on their faces told her she hadn’t convinced them. “Did you love him?” Amanda asked. Only since the first moment she’d laid eyes on him. “Yes,” Lily breathed. “Obviously, things didn’t work out,” Kylie concluded. “Otherwise, you wouldn’t have made the drastic step of moving clear to the other side of the country.”

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“You’re right.” The sad reality was that she could be a million miles away and still miss Michael. “I think this calls for another round of margaritas.” Maddie summoned the server and ordered their drinks. “Don’t worry, Lily. We’ll help you get through this.” “Yeah,” Amanda assured her. “Stick with us. Soon you’ll be having so much fun you won’t even remember the guy’s name.” Lily seriously doubted that, but she smiled. When the drinks came, Maddie raised her glass in a toast. “To new beginnings.” Kylie’s eyes twinkled. “To meeting new men.” Their enthusiasm was contagious. Lily chuckled. “Men? As in plural?” “The more, the merrier,” Kylie quipped. Amanda raised her margarita. “To erasing this man completely from your life.” The girls were right, Lily thought. Her feelings, which were clearly hopeless, were weighing her down. Three thousand miles might separate them, but Michael still dominated her mind and body. Talk about pathetic. She hadn’t really moved on, she’d just moved away. Loving Michael was a losing proposition. Nothing could ever come of it. It was time she crawled out from under her rock, swept aside her heartbreak and start living again. Why the hell not? Feeling more optimistic than she had in recent memory, Lily raised her glass. “To a new start.” The delicious, bracing taste of the potent drink bolstered her decision. “I think I’ll give Sam a call and invite him out to dinner.” Kylie’s pretty face broke into a grin. “That’s the spirit.” “What a wonderful idea,” Maddie agreed. “You’re hot and single. You should have fun. It’s a crime to pine away for a man who in all likelihood has forgotten about you,” Amanda pointed out. Though the comment stung, Lily silently agreed. Michael had probably forgotten about her. 35

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“Sam’s a great guy. If he wasn’t a close friend, I’d do him in a minute,” Kylie confided. Amanda rolled her eyes. “No, you wouldn’t. You have the hots for his brother Adam.” Maddie giggled and patted Lily’s hand. “Suffice it to say that for Kylie, Adam is the one who got away.” Lily’s gaze swung to Kylie, who never seemed to lack for male companionship. She was attractive and sexy, self-assured and confident in her dealings with men. “I find that hard to believe.” Kylie snorted. “Adam? I am so over him.” Amanda and Maddie exchanged amused glances. “If you say so, Kylie,” they said in unison. Lily listened with half an ear to their familiar banter. It felt comforting to be around friends. They had taken her under their wing, introduced her to their circle of friends and imbued her with a feeling of belonging. Their sympathy was genuine and their concern touching. They were right. It was time for a change. She made a mental note to call Sam soon and ask him out. It was time to forget Michael and start living again.

***** The office door opened, smacking the wall with an angry thud. Michael stalked into Anton’s office and planted his feet in front of the desk. A tight-lipped, harassed-looking brunette followed close at his heels. “I’m sorry, Mr. Rodriguez,” she started to say. “I tried to—” Anton got to his feet, his gaze clashing with Michael’s. “It’s quite all right, Susan. You can leave us.” He waited until the door closed behind her. “What’s up?”

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Michael laid his palms flat on the table, barely keeping his anger in check. “That was a nice disappearing act you pulled, my friend. You managed to elude me for months.” “I had business in South America. You could have easily reached me through Susan any time.” “You know damn well I tried. Your secretary has been giving me the runaround. Where the hell is Lily?” Anton raised a brow. “If Lily wants you to know where she is,” he drawled, “you would be privy to that information.” “I’m not playing games.” Michael clenched his fists. “I want to know where she is.” “I’ve been sworn to secrecy.” Fury and frustration rose in his throat. He’d spent months frantically trying to find out Lily’s whereabouts. “Bullshit. Tell me where she is.” Anton’s sigh was barely discernible as he rounded the desk and stood toe-to-toe with him. “Look, Michael, we’re friends. But Lily and I are, too. I have to respect her wishes.” Michael reined in his anger with difficulty. “I had no idea you even knew her outside of the office.” “We got to know each other during the river construction project your bank financed for my company.” Jealousy, hot and quick, flared inside him. “You dated her?” “I wanted to. But we agreed that we were better off as friends.” At Michael’s unwavering stare, Anton elaborated. “It wasn’t me she was interested in.” Jamming his hands into his pockets, Michael walked over to the window. Jesus. Had everyone known but him? “I had no idea. I never knew…” He swiveled and glared at Anton. “You helped her plan the night of your party.” “Yes.”

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“And you didn’t see fit to tell me?” Anton grimaced. “It wasn’t my place.” “We’ve known each other since we were eight years old. Don’t you think I deserved more honesty than that?” “It’s not my fault you were blind to what was right in front of you,” Anton retorted. “I helped Lily get what she wanted the most. One night with you.” Memories swept over Michael once more. He couldn’t get her out of his mind. Too many nights he’d lain awake in his bed, reliving the erotic things they’d done to each other. It was sheer torture to nurse a raging erection that jacking off just couldn’t relieve. “You helped her get away,” he accused. “It was for the best, Michael. Leave well enough alone.” “I can’t.” His voice was as raw as his feelings but he didn’t care. “I can’t forget about her.” “Try.” Michael was resentful and envious of the closeness Anton obviously shared with Lily. His Lily. “This may be a joke to you, but it’s not to me. That night…” He closed his eyes, picturing Lily’s perfectly bound breasts while she begged him to fuck her. “I can’t explain it.” “What are you saying?” Anton asked warily. “I’ve forgotten what a good night’s sleep is. I need to see her.” “Shit, Mike—” “Do you understand what I’m trying to say?” “Ah, fuck it. I do understand, man. But I can’t go against her wishes.” Michael glimpsed a light at the end of the tunnel. He pressed his advantage, not about to take no for an answer. “Here’s the deal. If Lily doesn’t want to see me or talk to me, that’s fine. I’ll leave her alone. But I want her to make that decision. I want to hear her say it.” 38

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Indecision marred Anton’s sharp features. “I don’t know. For one whole year, I watched her…” “What?” Michael prompted tautly. “Forget it. It’s not my place to say.” “Then just tell me where the fuck she is,” Michael grated. Anton raked a hand through his hair. “How the hell did you know I was back, anyway? I gave Susan strict instructions not to tell anyone I’d returned.” “I hired some people to watch your house and this office twenty-four hours a day.” Anton shot him an assessing glance. “You won’t stop until you get what you want—is that what you’re saying?” “If I have to beat it out of you, I will.” “No doubt. You always were a mean son of a bitch.” Anton’s lips twisted mockingly. “But I can hold my own, Mike.” “Don’t think I’ll be easy on you. Not when it comes to Lily.” “I don’t want Lily to get hurt.” “You’re not her father,” Michael snapped. “I’m her friend,” Anton retorted harshly. “I care about her.” “So do I.” “Care about her? Or do you just want to fuck her again?” “The only thing that’s stopping me from beating you to a pulp right now is the fact that we’re friends,” Michael bit out tightly. “If you think so little of me, then you don’t really know me at all. I’m willing to say to hell with twenty-five years of friendship over this.” They stared at each. Moments later, Anton relented, though not without reluctance. “Give me your word that you’ll leave her alone if she wishes it.” Anton might be a Dom, but somewhere in there was a closet romantic. Michael was thankful for that. “I do.” 39

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“Lily won’t be happy about this.” Anton scribbled on a piece of paper. “Here’s her home address and phone number. She works for a real estate agency.” “Thanks.” “Yeah, yeah. If she ends up hating me, well, I’ll just have to grovel for her forgiveness. Just…make sure you treat her right, Mike. You hear me?” Jealousy once again reared its ugly head. “Are you sure there isn’t anything between you and Lily that I should know about?” Anton shook his head. “Look, man, it’s not me she fantasized about for a year. Though not for lack of trying on my part,” he finished with a slight grimace. The new, unfamiliar feelings of possessiveness were disconcerting. “Then I don’t have to remind you that she’s off limits.” “I don’t believe this. You’ve been oblivious for so long, now all of a sudden, she’s yours?” Michael winced. “Look, I can’t explain it, either.” He swung his gaze to the view outside Anton’s office. “If Lily is willing to try, I swear she won’t regret it.” “This is complicated shit,” Anton muttered. “My life is so much simpler.” Michael let that one pass. Anton’s life was a never-ending cycle of sex with submissives, but who was he to judge? “I don’t want Lily to know I’m coming to see her.” “I wasn’t going to tell her. You two can sort out your own problems.” He extended his hand. “Good luck. I have a feeling you’ll need it.” Michael shook his hand, relieved he didn’t have to lose a friendship. As he walked out into the rainy New York afternoon, he decided there was no time to waste. A phone call to his new secretary and his plan was in motion. This time, Lily wouldn’t get away.

*****

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Norm Hollister stuck his head in Lily’s office. “I’m on my way out to a late lunch. Walk with me for a minute.” Lily hurried to catch up with him. A discreet glance at her watch revealed it was close to three. Her new boss was famous for his late lunches. As the owner of West Coast Properties, a high-powered real estate agency that catered to the rich and famous, Norm was a consummate wheeler-dealer. “I have a very important client that I want you to take care of.” He didn’t slow down one bit, oblivious to the respectful smiles and greetings of his employees. “He’s big money, looking to purchase a house.” Lily’s calm demeanor was a stark contrast to the giddy excitement that filled her at his words. This was her chance to make the big sale that would kick-start her new career. She cleared her throat. “Of course.” “He’s new to the area.” Norm handed her a folder. “Here are his requirements for a house.” The words price is no object were written in bold letters on top of the file. Lily’s heart began to pound. If she closed this sale, it would cement her place in the agency. Not to mention make her a very tidy commission. “I know of a couple of properties on the market that would likely suit.” “Yes, well, make sure you handle him right. He’s a very discerning client,” Norm stated, exiting to the employee parking lot. He stopped next to a gleaming black Lexus. “He’s also a very busy man. He can’t spare you time during work hours.” Lily gave him a reassuring smile. “Not a problem.” “Good. That’s the attitude I’m looking for.” Norm unlocked his car door. “Contact name is Richard Delvecchio.” “Um…thanks for trusting me with this one,” she stammered.

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A flicker of something she couldn’t distinguish flashed through his eyes. “Yeah, sure,” he said abruptly and eased into the plush leather seat. With a flick of his wrist, the engine purred smoothly. “He’ll be here at six-thirty tonight.” A fleeting feeling of unease rolled through her. That look in Norm’s eyes had been gone too quickly to interpret correctly. Lily dismissed it, gripping the file tightly in her hand. With a wave, Norm drove away. She was already thinking ahead. There were a few hours left in which to pick properties to show the new client. As soon as she closed her office door, Lily did a little jig. This was a great opportunity. She perused the notes inside the folder and mentally checked off Mr. Big Client’s requirements. Four or five bedrooms, pool and a large backyard, located in a quiet area—although there was no mention of a wife or family. It wasn’t long before she was busy checking her computer for listings that fit the requirements and which were available for showing tonight. All in all, even though it was pretty last minute, she managed to hunt down two vacant properties with coded lock boxes. Sara, the receptionist, stuck her head in Lily’s office at six. “Everybody’s gone. I’m leaving for the night. You’ll lock up?” “Sure.” Alone, Lily checked and rechecked the listings she’d compiled, making sure they met Mr. Delvecchio’s requirements before slipping the file in her carryall. She smoothed her hair and applied fresh lipstick. Her black suit was professional and businesslike, but this fact failed to dispel her nerves. This was her first big client. Nothing could go wrong. Lily heard the discreet chime over the front door. Gathering her things, she hurried down the hallway to the reception area. She had a quick moment to admire the perfect fit of the stylish shirt on the tall, broad-shouldered man who was currently perusing the plaques on the wall.

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“Hello.” Her voice was a tad breathless. “You must be Mr. Delvecchio. I’m Lily McIntyre.” The man pivoted to face her. Lily’s smile froze in place. Michael. “Hello, Lily.” Oh my God. It can’t be. Surely she was seeing an apparition. Any minute now, the image was going to dissipate into thin air. This was just another one of those instances when her attention was drawn to a man with a similar build as Michael’s, only to realize she was staring at a stranger. She blinked several times, but he was still there. In the flesh. Her tongue cleaved to the roof of her mouth. His hair was a tad longer, but the same brown eyes, dark and smooth like expensive chocolate, stared back at her. The room seemed to shrink, filled by the potent, brooding masculinity that emanated from him. Lily drew in a shaky breath. “W-what are you doing here?” “I believe I’m your six-thirty appointment.” Mercy, how had she forgotten how deep his voice was? Her skin tingled with sharp awareness. Between her legs, a heavy pulsing started. “My appointment is with Mr. Delvecchio.” He gave her a small grin. “Richard is an associate.” Lily shook her head in disbelief. “No.” “No?” he echoed mockingly. Fingers of panic were closing in on her. Oh God. I can’t do this. I can’t be with him again like this. All the old feelings she believed she’d successfully eradicated came roaring back with a vengeance. She trembled. In contrast, Michael looked cool and unflappable, as if he surprised women every day. Clenching her fists, Lily forced herself to look up his six-foot-three frame. It was a mistake. Her gaze traveled from the muscled thighs encased in neatly pressed trousers to his trim waist before gliding up his chest and on to his mouth. And there she got

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stuck. Those lips had done sinful, lustful things to her body that night four long months ago, leaving no part of her unexplored. Stop it! Lily forced herself to meet his eyes. All at once, she drowned in the warm depths. Lord help her. Not again. “Why are you here?” “I’m here because I’m looking for a house.” Michael’s steady, unblinking stare was a sizzling brand on her skin, sending arrows of hot lust shooting straight to her sensitive pussy. Familiar syrupy heat threatened to dull her senses. “Of all the real estate offices in Los Angeles, you just happened to choose this one?” “I was looking for you.” The admission nearly made her knees buckle. “I never intended to see you again.” Michael speared her with a sharp glance. “Don’t you think I should have a say in that?” “It’s better this way,” Lily insisted in a tremulous voice. “Better for whom?” “Please don’t do this. I don’t know what you hope to achieve by coming here. You don’t need a house. You don’t even live here. You live in New York.” “On the contrary, a change of environment is just what I need.” She choked. “You can’t just drop everything and move out here.” Michael’s hot, intense gaze never wavered from her face. “That’s the beauty of it, Lily.” She shivered at the husky way her name slid off his lips. “I can do whatever I want, whenever I want.” He gave her a small grin. “As it happens, the bank has just acquired a rather sizable financial institution based here on the West Coast. I’ll be overseeing operations while we bring it up to company standards.”

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Dismay filled her at his words. If he’d meant to pull the rug out from under her, he’d just succeeded. “That’s something a lower-level executive would do. Not the next chief executive officer.” She pulled in a steadying breath. “Stop playing with me.” “I’m dead serious.” Lily drew herself up to her full height, which at five-six, wasn’t considerable. “I must insist you find another agent.” She cursed the tremor in her voice. Don’t let him see weakness. “Norm Hollister was very enthusiastic about the properties in the area,” Michael stated casually, as if he was talking about the weather. “He said his agency was the perfect choice to help me find my dream house.” Lily immediately caught on to his implication. Dropping him as a client would no doubt cost her, probably even her job. At the very least, it would earn Norm’s ire and squander whatever points she’d managed to make with her new boss. She was caught between a rock and a hard place, and damn Michael, he knew that. Through the helpless anger and resentment, she was equally aware of the lust tightening her lower belly. What a joke. Apparently, four months separation hadn’t dulled this man’s devastating effect on her senses. A few minutes with him and she was slick and wet with need. “This is blackmail,” she gritted out, trying to ignore her hammering pulse. Her nipples tingled under her silk blouse, tightening, rubbing painfully against the soft material of her bra. Michael shrugged. “Call it whatever you want.” She swallowed, aware of the strong jolt of desire zapping her susceptible sex, traveling like lightning to her clit. She’d been deluding herself when she’d decided that one night with him was enough. Now that he was here in the flesh, right in front of her, her palms itched to slide under his shirt and caress the hard, warm flesh beneath. Oh, girl, you’re in big trouble now.

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“Please. Just tell me you’ll work with another agent. I mean,” she desperately searched for the right words, “there are others here with way more experience than I have. They’ll do just as well.” “No doubt they would,” Michael agreed softly. “But I want you.” His words sent a violent quiver through her pussy. Temptation threatened to overshadow common sense, eating away at her sanity. “You’re doing this on purpose,” she accused him breathlessly. Michael stepped closer, crowding her, trapping her in a masculine cocoon. “Did you really think you could get away without giving me an explanation?” Any minute now, her heart was going to jump out of her chest and she was going to melt into a puddle of need. “I-I don’t want to talk about that night.” “Then it seems we’re at an impasse.” It was clear he wasn’t backing down. “I believe you have houses to show me?” Lily clenched her fists. “Michael—” “I’m a busy man,” he interrupted firmly. “Shall we go?” She flushed. He had her cornered and he knew it. Swallowing the protest hovering on her tongue, she raised her chin and marched to the door, aware of him right behind her. After locking up the office, she hesitated on the sidewalk and glanced at the employee parking lot behind the building. “There’s my car. Why don’t you just follow me?” Michael opened the door to the silver Mercedes parked at the curb. “I’m not familiar with the area. You don’t want me to get lost, do you?” She gripped her purse tightly. “It’ll be easier if you just follow me. That way, you won’t have to bring me back here.” “That won’t be a problem.” Gritting her teeth, she slid into the car. Her skirt hiked up her legs, and she vainly tried to pull it down, freezing abruptly when he slipped into the driver’s side. The

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roomy sedan suddenly felt small and cramped. As surreptitiously as she could, Lily shifted closer to the door, inching away from him. The subtle, special scent that she would always associate with him teased her nostrils, stabbing at her senses, making her even more aware of his presence. “Where to?” Clearing her throat, she gave him directions. From the corner of her eye, she noted the cool, confident way he maneuvered the luxury vehicle. He looked right at home in it. Of course. Rush hour traffic was heavy and their progress was slow. Biting back a frustrated groan, Lily prayed for a miracle that would make the traffic part and let them through. Anything to shorten the time she had to spend with Michael in the intimate confines of the car. How could she have fooled herself into thinking that time had cured her addiction to this man? Nothing could be further from reality. Lily bit the inside of her cheek, wondering if her panties were already soaked with her cream. Just be professional. “I have two properties to show you today.” Though her voice was husky, it was steady, not shaky. “Fortunately, they’re both unoccupied right now so it won’t be a problem to view them.” No answer. Lily turned away, taking in the passing scenery. She was not going to let him fluster her. He was a client. She could handle him. But deep inside, she was afraid that mere words couldn’t bolster her sagging defenses. Control was slipping away from her grasp and there was no way to stop it.

Michael glanced at his lap, grimacing at the erection that just wouldn’t go away. Had Lily noticed it? He hoped to hell she had. It was all her fault. She looked good enough to eat in her prim black suit with the short skirt that showed off her killer legs. Now he was certain he’d been a blind idiot to have missed how sexy she really was. Whoever said subtlety worked on a man didn’t know what the hell they were talking 47

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about. Evidently, he’d needed to be hit over the head with a fucking hammer before he’d see what was right in front of him. He stole a quick look at Lily’s averted profile. She was clearly flustered. A hint of pink tinged her smooth cheeks, and her shallow breathing thrust her mouthwatering chest against her jacket. His eyes strayed again to her lightly tanned legs. Damn, but Lily was sexy, curvy and hot. How had he failed to see it? There was really no excuse, except that he made it a point never to fraternize with employees. Plus, he’d been engaged at the time. Things were different now. Lily no longer worked for him, and his engagement had long been called off. True, it had taken a night of uninhibited sex with Lily to open his eyes. But now that he’d found her again, he intended to make up for lost time. The polite, detached tone she used to address him only turned him on more. Michael smothered a rueful grin. Damn. He had it bad. His palms itched to feel her, to touch those jutting breasts or even spank that delectable ass. No hurry. It was better to take things slow. There was plenty of time to play erotic bedroom games. Anticipation tightened his balls. He thought of leather cuffs, nipple clamps, vibrators and even the clit rings he could use with Lily. On Lily. All in due time.

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Chapter Three Lily stifled a sigh of relief when they arrived at the first house on her list. As soon as the car pulled to a stop in the driveway of the Tudor-style home, she hastily climbed out. Determined to keep her distance, she strode to the entryway and punched in the lockbox code to retrieve the key. Her senses prickled with awareness. Michael was a large, disturbing presence behind her. She fumbled with the key before finally managing to open the heavy double doors. “This house has only been on the market for a week,” she began in what she hoped was an entirely professional tone. “It has five bedrooms and six bathrooms on—” “Do you cook? Or do you prefer going out?” Lily blinked. “I’m sorry?” The corners of his lips lifted. “You know, food? To eat?” Slow heat began to swirl in her stomach. Lily squashed it like a bug. “I would be more than happy to reschedule our appointment if you’d rather go to dinner.” “Great idea. What do you prefer?” “Prefer?” she repeated blankly. God, she was beginning to feel like an idiot. Her thought processes seemed to have slowed down. “Italian? Chinese?” “Neither. I meant, if you would rather have dinner with someone else, I’d be happy to reschedule our appointment.” “Nope.” His tone was irritatingly cheerful. “I’m all yours.” Her pussy clenched. “Would it make you feel better if we discussed the listings while we’re eating?”

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Why did she have the awful feeling that he knew exactly what she was going through? Damn him. He advanced toward her, sleek and lithe as a jungle cat, standing way too close for comfort. Just play it cool. “It would be better to see them in person.” Michael’s hooded gaze locked on her lips. “Have dinner with me tonight, Lily.” Her nerves leapt in traitorous excitement. “It’s not wise to mix business with pleasure.” “Is that why you quit before you spent the night with me?” Hot color flooded her cheeks. She was not talking about that night. “As you can see, the house has a very large, updated kitchen. This leads into a sizable den, perfect for entertaining.” She stopped and looked over her shoulder when she realized Michael wasn’t following her. “It’s too dark for my taste,” Michael abruptly announced, leaving her gaping at his back as he headed out the front door. “Let’s go see the next one.” Gritting her teeth at his boorish behavior, Lily hurried to catch up. After she secured the house, she got back inside the car, pointedly making sure a respectable distance separated them as he held the door open for her. Michael was no different from other difficult clients that the agency had dealt with before. Yeah, but you had the hottest sex of your life with him. She could get past that. She had to. Lily rattled off directions to their destination, trying like hell to ignore how his dark hair kissed the collar of his shirt or the way his strong, blunt fingers easily wrapped around the steering wheel. Her gaze dropped to the bulging muscles of his thighs. Michael was walking testosterone, not an ounce of flab anywhere. A little shiver worked its way down her spine. Fingers of arousal fluttered over her sex at the thought of that rock-hard body possessing her in the most intimate way a man and woman could be connected. The tense silence that surrounded them grated on her nerves. By the time he pulled up to the next property, Lily was ready to yank her hair out. Feeling Michael’s gaze

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boring into her back, she unlocked the front door, thankful that her hands managed to stay steady. Lifting her chin, she began to point out the features of the house. He dogged her steps, and she could actually feel his warm breath feathering over her nape. His silence drove her crazy. He never made a comment or asked a question. How was she supposed to know if he liked the place or not? “So what do you think?” “I’m wondering why you won’t go out to dinner with me.” “Believe it or not, I’m a professional. I don’t go out with clients.” Alarm bells rang in her head as he leaned in close. “I’m more than just a client. I’m the man you called Master, who tied you up, spanked you and fucked you over and over.” The frank, sexual words razed her defenses like a damn Sherman tank. Visions of the erotic, torrid games she’d willingly participated in flashed through her mind. She swallowed and desperately clung to a measure of self-control. “You still fall into the client category.” “Are you trying to convince me or yourself?” Lily wished she wasn’t so transparent. “Both,” she answered honestly. “Why?” Her gaze was drawn to his lips like magnet. “Because I’m not interested in a repeat performance.” “Rather presumptuous, aren’t you?” Michael derided softly. “Deciding what’s best for both of us?” If she reached up just a little bit…just an inch…their lips would touch. “It’s best for me.” “Open your mouth, Lily. I want to taste you.”

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Every cell of her body came to life at the softly uttered command. What the hell was wrong with her? Had that one night with him rewired her senses to instinctively follow his orders? With great difficulty, she mustered the strength to clamp her mouth shut and step back. “No.” “You’re only postponing the inevitable.” “It won’t happen again,” she insisted. “I can’t let it.” Michael’s eyes raked over her possessively. “We’ll see.” He glanced around with a frown. “I don’t like this place.” With that, he held the door open for her. Bombarded by a host of confusing emotions, Lily marched back to his car and promptly got in. He was maddening. She stared straight ahead, refusing to look at him as she gave him directions back to the office. The vehicle barely came to a halt before she was fumbling with the door handle. “Goodnight.” “I’ll walk you to your car.” He didn’t wait for an answer and made his way to her side to help her out. Her lips tightened. Her little beat-up sedan was sitting smack-dab in the employee parking lot behind the building. It seemed so far away. Conscious of him keeping pace with her, she walked stiffly, fishing into her purse for her keys. Oh, for heaven’s sake, where were they? He stilled her frantic search with a hand. “Why did you disappear the next morning?” “Michael, please—” “I deserve an answer.” Lily gulped. “That’s all water under the bridge. It’s not important now.” Michael clenched his jaw. “We had sex several times that night. I was deep inside you. We were as intimate as a man and woman can get. Is that really unimportant?” Lily’s face heated. A similar reaction exploded between her legs. No fair. Sex between them had been urgent, greedy and adventurous. There wasn’t anything he’d

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asked that she hadn’t done. She shifted, crossing her arms over her chest, trying to hide her hungry nipples practically begging for attention. Her clit pulsed with a heavy, insistent need, summoning the traitorous wetness that seeped through her over-eager slit. “I only wanted one night.” His lips tightened grimly, his face inches away from hers. If she leaned in, just a little bit, their lips would touch and she’d satisfy the ravenous lust inside her. “Listen, I can’t be your agent, Michael. You and me—this—it just won’t work. I’ll talk to Norm tomorrow and ask him to assign another agent to work with you. I just…” She choked back tears. “I can’t do this.” She unlocked the car door and swiftly got in. Thank God the engine started on the first try. As she drove away, she glanced into the rearview mirror. Michael still stood where she’d left him, his hands jammed in his pockets. At an intersection a safe distance away, Lily placed her forehead on the leather steering wheel. Please, please, give me the strength to resist him. She’d been a fool to want a man who was in love with another woman. To go through that again would surely kill her. Once she arrived at the small apartment above Maddie’s coffee shop, Lily picked up the phone with shaky fingers. There was only one person in the entire world from whom Michael could have obtained her whereabouts. Anton. When he picked up the phone, she immediately demanded, “How could you tell him where I am, Anton?” “Lily, querida, let me explain. Michael was determined to find you.” Her knuckles turned white. “You promised me.” “Michael swore he would leave you alone if you wanted him to.” Anton waited for half a second. “One word from you, Lily, and he’s gone. Just say so.” She closed her eyes in defeat. “He’s got me cornered.” She explained how Michael ended up as her client. “Well, you’ve got to hand it to him. He’s smart.”

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The grudging admiration in Anton’s voice irritated her further. She paced the tiny kitchen. “I can’t deal with Michael. Not after…not after what happened that night. That’s why I left New York.” “You know, darling, this could be a good thing.” She stopped. “What?” “Think of it this way. He’s there. He sought you out. This is your chance. Seize the day, babe.” “He only wants me for sex.” “Is that such a bad thing?” Anton asked with the straightforward logic of a man. “Sex is often the stepping stone to something deeper. Why not enjoy it while it’s available?” It was hard to argue with that. She could take what Michael was offering and lose herself in the joys of sex. Mind-blowing sex, she corrected herself silently. “The price is too high,” she whispered, admitting to the longing that still existed deep in her heart. “I walked away with a broken heart last time. I don’t think I’ll survive it again.” “Then take away the emotion.” Anton’s tone was gentle. “Just take pleasure in the moment.” “Easy for you to say. You’re a man.” “Sometimes women make things needlessly difficult. He’s there. You’re there. You still want him. He obviously wants you. I fail to see what the problem is. As my grandfather used to say, when opportunity knocks, grab it with both hands and don’t let go.” “If I recall correctly, your grandfather was married six times.” Anton chuckled. “What can I say? He liked to spread the love.” Lily sighed. “This is serious. I don’t know what to do.”

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“Look.” The amusement was gone from Anton’s voice. “This is the twenty-first century. Women are no longer stoned or made into pariahs for indulging in sexual affairs. Let go and have fun. You just might like it.” Silence pulsed over the line for a quick moment. “I can’t tell you what to do. You’re going to have to figure that out for yourself.” “Damn it,” she whispered. “I hate it that you’re always so logical, so reasonable.” His laughter was low and warm. “Too bad you don’t want me, huh? Friends make very good lovers, you know.” His continuing attempts to seduce her almost made her smile. “I have to run. Keep me posted, hmm? Take care, love.” When she replaced the phone, Lily was no closer to figuring out what to do. She was honest enough to admit that Anton had a point. She was a healthy, modern woman in her twenties. What was wrong with enjoying sex with Michael? Temptation flirted around the edges of her mind, baring the sexual hunger deep in her soul and testing the strength of her determination. Oh God. Nothing had changed. She wanted Michael. But there was a huge stumbling block lying between them. One she couldn’t overlook. Michael was still in love with Emma.

***** Lily sipped her coffee. Her tongue burned and she nearly spit out the scalding liquid. It was her fourth cup of the day. She really didn’t need any more caffeine, but she needed something to do as she’d hovered between despair and confidence while waiting for her boss to arrive. It was just her luck that Norm had decided to stay away from the office without bothering to let his secretary know if he was coming in or not. Of course, she still had no idea what she was going to say when she finally caught him—she’d just have to wing it. It was imperative to get herself out of this jam without raising Norm’s ire and ruining her career with his agency.

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All night long, she’d tossed and turned, desperately trying to think of a solution to her dilemma. The problem was simple. Michael was still in her blood. The first step in curing an addiction was to remove the temptation. Somehow, she had to get Norm to assign a more experienced agent for Michael. Once she secured her boss’ agreement, she’d hand over the fresh batch of listings she’d assembled. She smothered a groan. It would never work. Norm would see through her pathetic, lame excuses and shred her plan to pieces. The office window gave her a peekaboo view of the sparkling blue Pacific, ablaze with the orange of the afternoon sun. The gorgeous scene failed to move her. Lily was so deep in thought that she didn’t even hear Sara rap on the open door. “Will you look at this?” she gushed breathlessly, carrying a huge bouquet of beautiful flowers. “It’s absolutely breathtaking.” Lily glared at the arrangement with suspicion. “Who are they from?” “Whoever it is sure didn’t scrimp on the cost.” Sara placed it on Lily’s desk. “Oh and you asked me to let you know when Norm got in. He just arrived.” The young woman rolled her eyes. “No doubt to stay for a few minutes before he goes home. Must be nice to be the big boss, huh? You can show up whenever you want.” With a wave, Sara walked out of the office. Lily sat unmoving, cradling the coffee mug in her hands, staring at the lovely floral arrangement. A square, white card lay tucked amid the blooms. No need to read it. There was only one man who could have sent the stunning profusion of coral-colored roses and baby’s breath. “Hello, Lily.” Her gaze flew to the door at the sound of her boss’ voice. But it was the man standing next to Norm that got her attention. Michael. What the hell was he doing here? She jumped to her feet, wincing as hot coffee sloshed on her fingers. “Ouch.” Norm stepped into her office. “Are you all right?”

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Lily dabbed at the spot with a tissue, her face burning with embarrassment. “I’m fine. Just a little clumsy.” With a nod, Norm inclined his head. “Mr. Rutherford stopped by to apologize for the subterfuge in using a colleague’s name to set up his appointment.” He aimed a broad grin at Michael. “We respect your need to protect your privacy. I understand Lily showed you two properties last night?” “Lily’s very knowledgeable,” Michael assured him smoothly. “Unfortunately, neither one appealed to me.” “I understand. These things simply cannot be rushed. As your agent, Lily won’t stop until you find exactly what you’re looking for.” A smile played at the corners of Michael’s mouth. “Work takes up a lot of my time, I’m afraid, and I’m not available during business hours. I do hope that won’t cause any inconvenience—” Norm held up a hand. “Lily’s perfectly willing to work around your schedule. Right, Lily?” “D-definitely,” she stammered. Why did she feel a trap slowly closing in on her? Her boss nodded in approval. “That’s settled then. Just let her know when you’re available.” Michael grinned. “As it happens, I’m free right now.” “Perfect.” Norm turned to her expectantly. “Lily?” The trap snapped shut, locking her inside. She fought to keep the dismay off her face. Michael was the ultimate strategist. By talking to Norm, he’d ensured that she couldn’t get out of the situation. She’d been outmaneuvered. Neatly cornered, Lily forced a smile onto her lips. “No problem.” Norm beamed. “Wonderful. Michael mentioned some of his East Coast executives will eventually have to relocate here. The agency would be thrilled to handle their housing needs as well.” He looked extremely pleased at the prospect. “I’m going to

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leave you in Lily’s capable hands.” The men shook hands before Norm stepped out of the office. Lily held her tongue until the door closed. She’d take care of him. Only Michael had a different “care” in mind. One that involved handcuffs, blindfolds and all sorts of kinky stuff. “That was sneaky.” He shrugged. “I knew you’d try to find a way to foist me off on somebody else.” “Michael—” “I would have brought the flowers myself, but I wanted to spare you the workplace gossip. Do you like them?” His presence in the small office made it difficult for her to breathe. “They’re beautiful. Thank you very much. But I don’t know what they’re for.” “They reminded me of you.” His voice throbbed with hunger, low and vibrating over her skin. “I’m told the color denotes desire.” The tips of her breasts tightened. He was eating her up with his eyes, making no effort to hide it. Alarmed, Lily sucked in a sharp breath. “Stop it.” “Let’s go.” Her mind went blank. “Where?” His half-smile showed he knew exactly how he affected her. “To look at houses, Lily.” Gritting her teeth, she gathered up her papers, snagging the fresh listings she’d printed. So much for her plans to hand them off to another agent. She slung her carryall over her shoulder and grabbed her purse. “Fine.” Lily was acutely aware of his gaze on her backside as he walked behind her. Fighting the blush creeping over her cheeks, she smiled for the benefit of her coworkers. She kept at it until she thought her face would crack. Fate was conspiring against her, she was sure of it. But it was okay. This was simply business. Michael was just another client. Even if she got aroused every time she was within a few feet of him.

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The atmosphere in the car felt too intimate, what with the soft jazz music playing in the background. After giving him directions, Lily resolutely turned away. She mentally went over the features of the first house on her list. Next, she thought of grocery items she needed. Done with that, she went through a list of chores to be done. Anything to keep from staring at Michael like a lovesick girl. By the time they arrived at their destination, Lily felt more in control. The house was contemporary in design, all windows and sharp angles. Black marble was used extensively throughout, and it was equipped with every gadget known to man. Michael followed her quietly, listening to her point out the features, nodding his head. When she finished, he asked, “Do you like it?” Lily blinked. “It’s a little too modern for my taste. But,” she hastened to add, “what’s important is what you think of it.” “I don’t like it, either.” To her surprise, Michael had the same reaction to the Spanish-style home she showed him next. Finally, she came to the bottom of her list, a beautiful house on Paseo de la Paz. Despite the turmoil she was feeling inside, her mood lightened when she spotted the structure at the end of the winding driveway. Lily had fallen in love with the Tuscan-style residence from the first moment she’d seen it. Painted in warm, burnished earth tones, it sat atop a slight bluff, a breathtaking view of the city on one side and lush green hillside on the other. Caught up in the beauty of the place, she eagerly got out of the car and unlocked the stunning glass-enclosed entryway. They walked through the foyer flanked by the sweeping, grand staircase and the formal living room. “The owners relocated to Florida. They didn’t want to sell, but with grown children, they’re pretty much on their own. They really don’t need a house this size.”

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Striding into the kitchen, Lily ran her hand over the smooth, granite counters, highlighting the latest gadgets and amenities that made it a chef’s dream. Although she wasn’t a whiz at cooking, it would certainly be fun to try out different recipes using the commercial-grade stainless steel oven. She bit back a wistful sigh. “And the pièce de résistance,” she murmured as she threw open the doors that led outside. The infinity pool was set in the middle of the yard and beyond it was a stunning view of the city. A circular balcony overlooked a wooded area, affording total privacy. Beautiful landscaping, verdant grass and colorful flowers completed the gorgeous backyard. “What do you think?” she asked excitedly. The expression on his face was thoughtful and assessing. “You like this place.” Somewhat mortified by her enthusiasm, Lily said the first thing that came to her mind. “It’s charming and idyllic. Perfect for a family.” Her statement hung heavy in the ensuing awkward silence. “I mean, for when you settle down. Soon. Whenever.” Shut up before you say anything more embarrassing. His eyes gleamed with something she couldn’t fathom. “Show me the upstairs.” Lily was grateful he couldn’t see her red face as she led him to the second floor. The thought of Michael settling down with a wife was difficult to stomach. The woman would be flawless, of course, meticulously groomed and poised. It was enough to make her gag. They wandered inside the bedrooms, ending up in the master suite. It was as big as some apartments she’d seen. “It has its own sitting room, a fireplace and a marble-tiled bathroom.” Lily pivoted and caught him staring at her ass. She raised an eyebrow and gave him a pointed look. Michael didn’t even try to hide it. With a small smile, he allowed his gaze to slide up her front, lingering on her chest before meeting her eyes. “Beautiful.” Lily’s nipples tightened, at once painful and needy. “You’re not paying attention.” “On the contrary, I’m admiring the view.”

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There was nothing remotely suggestive about the dressy blouse and tailored black slacks she had on. But the way he was looking at her, you’d think she was wearing sheer negligee. “Have you heard anything I said at all?” His eyes flashed with heat. “You’re distracting.” “Try harder,” she tossed back, her voice disturbingly husky. He stalked closer. “If you want me to listen, then you shouldn’t wear such provocative clothing.” Lily clenched her fists and stood her ground. “I’m wearing pants.” He curved an arm around her waist and hauled her against him. “Pants that mold your ass.” All the breath seemed to have left her lungs. “Then don’t look at my ass,” she countered, a tad defiant. Michael threw his head back and laughed. To her shock, he clamped both hands around her rear end and squeezed. “That’s like asking me not to breathe.” Just like that, she melted inside. Her breathing quickened. It was getting more and more difficult to keep her runaway libido in check. “Have you seen anything I’ve shown you?” Pulling her closer until the tips of her breasts brushed against his chest, Michael lowered his head. “Looking at you was better.” Lily trembled as his lips hovered above hers. She cleared her throat and forcibly tore her gaze away from his. “It’s a really beautiful house. It’s a shame not to appreciate it.” “I like it,” he assured her gently. Her stomach did an odd little flip. “Okay, then—” “Kiss me.” “W-what?” She was so flustered she wasn’t even aware that he’d pushed her against the wall. “I can’t…” 61

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Michael covered the scant distance that separated them. He brushed his lips against hers, once, twice, barely there touches that drove her crazy. “This isn’t a good idea,” she whispered lamely. “It’s a great idea. I’ve thought of little else but kissing you…touching you…having you again.” Lily ached to rub her thighs together, to seek some relief from the wetness soaking her pussy. She pushed against him, and to her surprise, he let her go. Relief mixed with sharp disappointment as she stepped away. She hurried to the hallway, down the winding staircase and out the front door. The cool breeze acted as a balm to her overwrought nerves. Lily avoided looking at Michael when he eventually appeared at her side. With fumbling fingers, she shut the door and shoved the key inside the lock box. Maintaining her silence, she walked to the car, crossing her fingers that traffic would be light so she wouldn’t have to spend one minute longer than necessary in the intimate confines of the vehicle with him. The tension in the air was palpable. Lily’s pulse thudded in her ears, and she sought to regulate her breathing as Michael drove her back to the office parking lot. He stopped her when she would have scrambled out of the car. Their eyes met. “I have to go back to New York, but I’ll be back on Saturday.” She ran her tongue over her lips. “T-that’s not a problem. We can set up another appointment when you get back and—” She gasped when he abruptly pulled her against him. “Michael!” “I need something to tide me over until I come back.” Her pussy clenched, instantly flooding with cream. Danger! “W-wait…” The feeble protest stuck in her throat, dying before she could verbalize the remaining words. The fires of passion licked at her common sense, swooping in and overcoming her defenses. Michael took possession of her lips with a power barely held in check, a dominant claiming born of hunger and need. No preliminaries, no gentleness. He demanded a response, and he received it. Pleasure rushed through Lily’s body. Their lips and 62

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tongues ate at each other. Drunk, giddy, her head fell back against the palm that curved around her nape. His seeking hand slipped under her blouse, intent on gaining access. This was it. Once he touched her, she had no hope of holding back the need she’d managed to suppress so far. Michael skimmed his lips down her neck, taking teasing bites, pausing to imprint his brand on her. Lily trembled, keenly aware of his hand pushing up her top, taking her bra with it. He freed one breast, plying the nipple with the calloused pads of his fingers, before sending her shooting toward the stars by sucking her deeply into his mouth. The pleasure was drugging. The push and pull of his lips rippled all the way to her abdomen, sending stinging electric charges to her susceptible pussy. Wetness flooded between her legs, seeping through the soaked folds of her sex. “Ohmigod.” He was destroying her sanity, depriving her of the ability to think. The only thing she could do was react to the heated caresses, pleading incoherently, aching for more. Michael cupped her mound through her slacks. “I can’t wait to be inside you again. To feel your pussy wrapped around my cock so sweetly, tightly.” He licked her nipple. “I want you naked and bound in my bed, writhing, begging me to fuck you.” His words ramped up the fire that bloomed in her pussy. Harsh, panting breaths whooshed through her parted lips. He rubbed her clit through her pants, finding the swollen button unerringly. Muted groans filled the air. Somewhere in the distance, a siren wailed. It grew louder, closer, penetrating the thick windows of the luxury car. A fire engine passed by, its flashing lights illuminating the parking lot for a quick second. “Christ.” Michael buried his face in her neck, breathing hard. Need raced hot and thick in Lily’s blood. Her pussy throbbed with unfulfilled desire. She looked at him as he drew back. “Don’t,” he grated. The sandpaper quality of his tone scraped over her already vulnerable nerves. “Don’t even start to give me any bullshit about not wanting what just happened, because I won’t believe it, Lily.” 63

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She couldn’t speak. “I want you.” He took her hand and placed it on his cock. His nostrils flared. “Right now, I want to fuck you so bad it’s all I can do to stop myself. Once you’re back in my bed, you’re not leaving it, Lily. Deal with it.” He released her, his hands wrapping around the steering wheel with white-knuckled intensity. “Now go…while you still can.” Lily couldn’t understand how she was able to drive home. Hunger throbbed in her pussy, but her emotions were in shambles. She was caught in a tidal wave of need, aching for Michael, wanting him so much that she trembled with it. She was in the same heaven and hell she’d been in four months ago—and there wasn’t anything she could do to stop it.

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Chapter Four Lily stared into her bowl of cereal through gritty eyes, her appetite shot. She wrapped her fingers around the steaming mug that contained her only lifeline at the moment. There were a hundred little men pounding hammers into her head. The nights spent tossing and turning until the wee hours of the morning were killing her. Michael had said he’d be gone three days. Today was the fourth day, but who was counting? She was sick of jumping every time the phone rang. Or looking up whenever somebody walked by her office door. Or checking her messages at work. “Now isn’t this a shame.” Maddie strolled up behind the counter of the coffee shop. “Today’s special is my famous, mouthwatering blueberry pancakes, and all you’re having is cereal?” Lily didn’t have to look up to know who had slipped into the barstools on either side of her. Saturday breakfast was a weekly ritual for Maddie, Kylie and Amanda, a time to catch up with each other after a long workweek. Since she moved to L.A. she’d become the fourth member of their circle. “Lily?” Amanda’s voice was tinged with concern. “You look like you had a rough night. Is everything all right?” “I’m fine.” Lily mustered a smile. “Just tired.” “Not sleeping well?” Kylie commiserated. She patted Lily’s shoulder. “A batteryoperated boyfriend always comes in handy during long, lonely nights.” Lily shook her head. If only it were that easy… “Gee, thanks.” “We’ve all been there,” Amanda assured her. “There’s no shame in it.” “I don’t need a battery-operated toy, believe me. I just couldn’t sleep.”

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“Nothing like a good orgasm to tire you out,” Kylie quipped, an irrepressible smile on her face. “You’ll sleep like a baby afterward.” “I agree,” Amanda chimed in with a knowing nod. Maddie laughed. “They’re obsessed with sex. Don’t mind them, Lily.” Kylie raised a perfectly arched eyebrow. “Just because you get regular sex from Gavin doesn’t mean you can mock the rest of us single girls.” “We can all live vicariously through Maddie.” Amanda flashed a naughty grin. “Come on, Maddie, tell us something titillating you’ve done lately.” Maddie rolled her eyes and poured a tall glass of orange juice, placing it in front of Kylie. “Stop picking on me. This is about Lily, remember? Try to cheer her up. I’ll get us some breakfast.” She disappeared through the swinging doors into the kitchen. “I don’t need cheering up,” Lily denied. “I’m okay. Really.” “That’s what we all say when we feel the exact opposite,” Amanda declared in her infinite wisdom. Kylie narrowed her eyes at Lily. “I have the perfect solution to get rid of the dark cloud hanging over you. F-U-N.” Misery weighed on Lily’s shoulders. Fun? What was that? Ever since Michael had come back into her life—had it really only been a few days?—she’d been tied up in knots, riding a dizzying seesaw of emotions. She felt tense and on edge. Sleep eluded her. Her appetite was gone and she was drinking entirely too much coffee. Had she actually sunk so low that the only thing she was looking forward to was Michael’s return? “Lily, you’re single,” Amanda chided. “You should be enjoying yourself instead of staring into that cup of coffee like it’s your best friend in the entire world.” They were right, of course. This had to stop. No more wallowing in disappointment. So what if Michael had said he’d come back in three days and hadn’t? It shouldn’t matter so much to her, right? He was free to come and go as he pleased. By

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the same token, her life shouldn’t come to a grinding halt. This was exactly why she’d left New York. To leave all these crazy feelings behind. Damn it, once again, Michael Rutherford was messing up her life. “You’re right.” Amanda grinned. “Of course we are.” Kylie put an arm around her shoulders. “Let me reacquaint you with fun, hmm?” “What do you have in mind?” Lily asked. No more waiting around for Michael like some silly, lovesick fool. “Sam needs to make a mandatory appearance at a shindig for his boss. Instead of me going with him, why don’t you?” Kylie suggested. “That’s a great idea,” Amanda beamed. Lily bit her lip, suddenly unsure. “You think so?” “Yes. Totally.” Kylie nodded wisely. “Sam’s a great guy. What you need is a nopressure date.” She frowned. “No pressure?” “Meaning,” Amanda explained, “that you don’t feel like you have to sleep with him at the end of the night. This will be more like a friendly outing.” Kylie nodded. “Exactly. Now don’t you worry about a thing. Sam will be happy to take you. Now let’s finish our breakfast and check out your wardrobe. We’ll get you dolled up for tonight.” Why not? Going out with Sam would provide the perfect distraction from her obsessive anticipation of Michael’s return. The only thing worse than being desperate and dateless on a Saturday night was to sit at home, anxiously waiting for Michael to call. No more moping around, over thinking and overanalyzing things. Pride dictated that she put a stop to it. Tonight, she was going to have fun with Sam.

*****

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“I had a great time tonight, Sam. Thanks for letting me tag along.” “Better than sitting at home alone?” “Way better.” Sam was a great guy, easygoing and funny. Any woman would be lucky to have him. Too bad she only felt a mild stirring of interest whenever their eyes met. “I’d better go.” “No sparks, huh?” he commented ruefully. Lily shook her head, compelled to be honest. “I’m sorry. I wouldn’t want to lead you on.” “Hey, no big deal. It happens.” Sam took her hand. “You sure you won’t give us another chance? One kiss might convince you that I’m the sexiest guy you’ve ever seen.” “You’re sweet. I have no doubt that there’s somebody special out there waiting for you.” She brushed a soft kiss on his lips and hugged him. “It would have been nice if it was you.” He squeezed her hand before he opened his car door. “I’ll walk you up.” Sam placed a hand on her back as they navigated the stairs to the second floor apartment over Maddie’s coffee shop. They talked in low tones, Sam recounting a hilarious incident that had occurred earlier at the party. She chuckled, her key in hand. She didn’t see the man standing by her door, hidden in the shadows, until he unfolded his frame and straightened to his full height. Startled, Lily stared, tongue-tied. The porch light revealed the look of cold anger on Michael’s face. “Couldn’t wait for me?” Sam stepped forward, drawing her to his side. “Who are you?” Michael’s hard gaze never wavered from Lily. He’s back. The thought swirled around her brain to the exclusion of everything else. “Uh…” She turned to Sam. “It’s all right. H-he’s a friend.” “Are you sure?”

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Michael crossed his arms, his mouth tight and grim. “Now would be a good time to tell your date to leave.”

Tension filled the stillness of the night. The two men glowered at each other like rutting bulls getting ready to attack. Lily stiffened at the thinly disguised anger in Michael’s words but sought to diffuse the situation by giving Sam a reassuring smile. “It’s okay. I’ll be fine.” “You’re sure?” Sam persisted. “I don’t like the looks of him.” “You have two seconds to get out of here,” Michael growled. Sam’s stance was unmistakably aggressive. “Or what?” Michael took a step toward him. Oh, for heaven’s sake. Lily placed herself between the two men. “Thanks for tonight, Sam. I had a great time. But I can handle it from here.” Sam threw another suspicious glance at Michael before relenting. “I’ll call you later to make sure you’re okay.” She nodded. Sam made his way down the stairs, giving her one last look before he left. As soon as he was out of earshot, Lily swung around, glaring at Michael. “Where do you get off acting like that?” she demanded. “What are you doing here, anyway? How do you know where I live? Oh wait, I forgot. You twisted Anton’s arm for that information.” The sarcasm in her tone didn’t even faze him. “Open the damn door.” The imperious order only pissed her off more. “Fine. But only because what I have to say to you isn’t fit for public consumption.” Slamming the key in its lock, she twisted and pushed, sending the door crashing against the wall. After they entered the apartment, Michael closed the door with a soft click that echoed in the silence. The flare of displeasure in his eyes sent apprehension skittering down her spine, but Lily would rather walk on glass than show it. She lifted her chin.

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“I hope you had fun on your date.” He spoke the words casually, belying the fury written on every inch of his rigid expression. “Because that’s the last time you’ll be seeing him.” “Yeah?” Lily snorted. Through the anger she felt at his autocratic and rude manner, she was aware that the folds of her pussy had begun to pulse traitorously, dampening with stunning swiftness. This weakness only made her madder. She wanted to lash out, not melt at his feet. “You had no right to act like…like you’re my boyfriend!” Michael came toward her. “Watch it. You don’t want to play that game with me, Lily.” Her heart thudded. She moved to lengthen the distance between them, using the couch as a buffer. “Was I supposed to wait here like a good little girl until you came back?” He kept on advancing. “Is this what this is about? You’re angry because I was delayed?” “You wish. Will you stop doing that?” she snapped, clenching her fists and standing her ground. “The problem at the main office took longer than I expected.” I was waiting and waiting. “You don’t have to explain. It really doesn’t matter to me. I couldn’t care less.” “Be careful. You might just get a spanking tonight.” The words were like an explosion detonating inside her, blowing away any thought of resistance. The anger she’d used as a shield dissolved as she met his gaze. Heat seeped under her skin, sending trails of fire racing over her flesh. Her nipples tightened, pushing against the stretchy material of her black, jersey dress. “No, thanks,” she managed to whisper. “No more games.” Sexual intent lined every inch of Michael’s muscular frame as he eliminated the distance between them. Lily backed up a step. Then another. And

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another, until she came up against a wall. She switched directions, darting to the left, but Michael was too fast for her. He clamped a hand around her waist and hauled her back, pinning her to the wall simply by placing his body in front of hers. Lily caught her breath sharply. “Let me—” His mouth was suddenly on hers, insistent, demanding. Greedy. There was little gentleness in the tight, bruising grip he used to hold her. A powerful charge of electricity jolted her, zapping her remaining resistance. The desire that welled up inside her was too much to resist, too strong to fight. His touch was akin to setting fire to dry tinder. Lily moaned in defeat. “Damn you, Michael.” Her strapless dress was no match against his questing hands. Michael simply pushed her bodice down, baring the quivering flesh underneath. Without missing a beat, he leaned down to capture the aching tip of one breast, bringing a gasp to Lily’s lips. The silence was broken only by harsh groans and panting breaths. It was madness. Cool air brushed her thighs as Michael delved between her legs. Lily shuddered, already knowing what he would find. A soaked thong, further proof that her verbal denials were all lies. To her shock, the delicate material ripped with one pull of his fingers, and the little scrap of silk fluttered to the floor like a flag announcing her defeat. Michael picked her up and guided her legs around his waist. “You’re a bad girl.” He smoothed a hand over her ass. “Testing me by going out with someone else?” “W-what?” “I like to play games.” His hand clenched over her buttock before dipping into the crease. “Just not that kind. I don’t want to see him around you. Ever again.” The blistering touch of his palm on her backside had her clit swelling in painful need. She wanted to feel the sting of his hand. Driven by a need she couldn’t suppress, she raised her face. “Or what?” she taunted softly. “You’ll spank me?” Her chest rose and fell rapidly, knowing he wouldn’t be able to resist temptation. Michael gently bit down on her lower lip. “If you want a spanking, all you have to do is ask, baby.” 71

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The tender affection in his voice wrapped around her heart. “You’re the one who’s into kink. Not me.” “Liar. You’re just asking for it.” Then his lips landed on hers, demanding, insistent. Lily felt him fumbling with his pants, and for a split second, their eyes met. It was her chance to say no, to deny him and make him pay for the long, sleepless nights she’d spent aching for him. The moment passed. The bulbous head of his cock pulsed against her slit, immediately awash in her wetness. With one forceful thrust, he slid home. The hard, heavy stalk of flesh buried balls-deep inside her robbed her of the ability to think. “Michael,” she gasped. “So good,” he whispered. “I could fuck you all day, stuff my cock deep inside your cunt and never leave.” He laid his forehead against hers. “I’ve got to…” He began to thrust, low, guttural sounds issuing from deep in his throat. Again and again, he hilted, filling her, pushing, pushing… Lily panted. Every muscle in her body strained to get closer. Her legs wrapped tighter around his waist as he stroked violently in and out of her sex. “Oh God, fuck me. Please.” The slick slap of flesh on flesh whipped her into frenzied need, leaving her helpless against the swell of incredible pleasure that surged like a giant wave. It grew with every stroke, rising with stunning swiftness until a cry tore from Lily’s throat as a sharp, almost painful orgasm ripped through her. Michael thrust once, twice, before groaning deep and slamming into her one final time. Hot spurts of cum splashed against her trembling walls, and Lily shuddered with pleasure. It felt so unbelievably good… “I’m staying at the company townhouse. Come with me.” Through the fuzz clouding her mind, Lily fought to think. It was difficult to concentrate with him still inside her. “I want to be with you again.” He punctuated his words with hypnotic kisses. “Say yes.” 72

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How could she say no? It’s been so long… “I’ll need some clothes…” Michael squeezed her ass. “Why bother? I’ll just take them off anyway.” He kissed her softly, rubbing his lips against hers, his tongue insistent and possessive. “Please. I won’t take long.” He gently set her on her feet, brushing back her hair. Lily headed for the bedroom, achingly aware of the warm liquid that seeped from her sex and slowly dripped down her inner thigh. She closed the door and sat on the bed, needing a moment alone. Her soaked folds still pulsed with pleasure, and though sated, were still ready for more. She breathed deeply, trying to clear the fog of lust that clouded her brain. What happened out there was just a prelude of things to come. Why not throw caution to the winds and just have fun? After all, Anton had said to take what was offered. Push all the worries aside, forget about the past and just give in to the sheer pleasure of the sex. They were two consenting adults, with no commitments to other people. There was nothing wrong in slaking a mutual need. The real danger lay in the emotional consequences of her actions. She’d just have to make sure there weren’t any. Spend a blissful weekend with Michael, but at the same time, protect her heart. That’s all she had to do. Come Sunday night, it would be over. But for now… Once she made the decision, it seemed like a weight was lifted off her shoulders. Lily freshened up before pulling on new underwear and gathering a few necessary items. Just as she stuffed them into a tote bag, the door opened and Michael appeared. “I thought you might have changed your mind.” Wetness slicked her pussy at the flash of heat in his beautiful eyes. “I’m ready.” He pulled her along, a tad impatient as he shepherded her to his car. Desire overpowered Lily’s ability to think. The fear and unease were gone. So was the apprehension at being with Michael again. Joy imbued her from inside, bubbling to the surface, filling her with a giddy sort of happiness.

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Michael drove with a grim focus, his jaw tight, his hands clenched around the steering wheel. When they hit a red light, Lily impulsively closed the meager distance between them and kissed him under his ear. The sharp, indrawn breath he took spurred her on. Emboldened, driven by a need to tease and play, she rained soft, nipping kisses all over his neck, pausing to suck gently at his skin. She peppered his thigh with light, butterfly touches, coming close to, but never quite touching the huge bulge tenting the front of his trousers. He stayed her hand and finally looked at her. “You want to play?” His gaze was hot enough to burn. She licked her lips, her nipples instantly tightening in response. The cool air circulating in the car failed to slow the fire smoldering between her legs. “Yes.” She palmed his cock in a lazy, caressing motion, smiling at the air that hissed through his teeth. “I do.” “Careful. You might get more than you bargained for.” Tingles of electricity brought her nerve endings to stinging life. “I’m counting on it.” Before he could stop her, she managed to pull down his zipper and free his shaft just as the light turned green. “Lily—” “Eyes on the road.” She bent down, tonguing the broad head. “You don’t want to get into an accident, do you?” Rimming the flared ridge, she worked him around and around her mouth, taking him deeper in excruciating degrees. The hard stalk of flesh swelled in her mouth. “You know you’re killing me here, right?” She grinned around a mouthful of cock. “Good killing or bad killing?” The car slowed down, no doubt at another intersection. “Definitely good,” he bit out. Lily took him deep, until he was touching her throat. “Fuck, yeah. Like that. Again.” He guided her head, jamming his cock deeper before gently pulling her back. “That’s enough.” With one last lingering lick, she settled back in her seat and gave him a sassy pout. “But I’m sooo hot.” She twisted to face him, scooting back in order to prop up a leg 74

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against the center console. Her dress rode high on her thighs, and she pushed it up around her waist. The bright pink thong she wore barely covered her crotch. The glow from the car’s dash gave her a brief glimpse of the hunger etched in his features. He threw her periodic glances until he stopped at the next light. “Let me see.” Lily pulled aside her thong and bared her slit. With a finger, she rubbed her clit and shuddered. “So sexy.” Michael speared her glistening pussy with two fingers. She arched her hips against him. “Yesssss.” “Fuck,” he muttered. He pulled back, gunning the engine and taking off like a rocket from the intersection. “Hurry,” she moaned. “I need you.” Michael sped through iron gates of his complex, past elegant townhouses with neatly manicured lawns and carefully trimmed trees. He drove to the end of a cul-desac, activated the garage door opener and came to a halt with a squeal of tires. In a flash, he was out of the car and at her side. He wrenched open the passenger door and pulled her out. Michael paused long enough to press the button that closed the rolling metal garage panels, sealing them inside. Lily barely had time to straighten her dress before he dragged her through the dim entryway. She stumbled, cannoning into his back. He stopped, turned her around and pressed her palms against the wall. The long, thick length of his cock burrowed into the crack of her ass. In one sensuous movement, he slid his hands down her outstretched arms and to her sides. Before Lily could pull in a gasping breath, her dress slid to the floor, leaving her clad only in a thong. He tipped her face to his. “Are you going to give me what I want?” Lily’s knees turned to jelly. “Yes,” she breathed. She jumped when his hand eased inside her thong, palming her mound. “Mine.”

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The utter possession in his voice should have alarmed her. Instead, the savage way he declared it thrilled her. Michael led her down the hall, up the stairs and into a large bedroom decorated in deep shades of greens and browns. A king-sized, chrome-andsteel-framed bed dominated the room, covered in pristine cream and gold sheets. “Lie down.” He tossed the order over his shoulder as he walked through an open connecting door. A thousand butterflies took up residence in her stomach as she moved to obey. He came back, designer ties in hand. The implication couldn’t have been clearer had he said out loud that he was going to bind her. With silent and deliberate intent, he did just that. He pulled her arms over her head and bound her wrists together. The silk was soft against her skin, and Lily was filled with a sudden feeling of submission. Her breath came in rapid pants, and she watched as, one by one, his clothes came off. Her mouth went dry. His cock jutted proudly, unashamedly erect, thick and red, lined with life-giving veins. Lily trembled in anticipation. She was so aroused, so primed, that she was ready to explode. “Please touch me.” At her words, his eyes flew to hers. Lily licked her lips. “Master.” The corners of his lips quirked in a half-smile. Gripping her upper thighs, he gave her swollen clit a long, lingering lick. Lily reared off the bed with a strangled gasp. He speared her labia, his tongue plunging into her wet sheath, eating her with a hunger that sent fire streaking through her bloodstream. She clenched her fists, helpless, unable to touch him. When he pushed his tongue deep in her pussy, she moaned, an animalistic sound of passion. Pleasure whipped up her spine as he laved the swollen bud of her clit. He tormented her, plying her susceptible flesh with both light and firm licks. She raised her hips, pushing against him, demanding more without words. Any semblance of control was gone. When he wrapped his lips around the sensitive nub and sucked, she screamed, shuddering violently. 76

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She was pretty much a goner after that. The added sensation of his hands squeezing her breasts and gently pinching her nipples catapulted her to a place where only his mouth and hands existed. There was not an inch of her pussy he didn’t lick, suck, stroke and caress. With a startled cry, she came. Lily rolled her hips, rubbing against him frantically, trying to wring every last bit of pleasure she could from her orgasm. Michael gave her no reprieve, pushing her on until she begged for mercy. He loomed over her, burying a hand in her hair and tugging her face up for a devouring kiss. “On your knees.” Heart pounding, dazed and still trembling with delicious aftershocks, Lily shifted. The mattress barely budged as Michael tugged her to his lap, settling her astride him. When he untied her wrists, she glanced at him in surprise. But all he did was bind them again, this time behind her. Poised over his cock, Lily shook with the need to have him inside her. But he seemed to be in no hurry, clasping her breasts. “These are so beautiful. Such large, tight nipples.” He laved a tip with his damp tongue. “I want to clamp them.” Michael reached into the bedside drawer and pulled out two metal clamps connected by a thick chain. Her heart skipped a beat. A nipple chain. He fastened one clamp around her nipple, gradually tightening it until the tip was caught in-between. Lily’s head spun. It was just enough pressure to cause a modicum of pain, yet not enough to seriously hurt. By the time he’d clamped the other tip, her breasts felt heavy and ultrasensitive. When he kneaded the pliant mounds, she caught her breath sharply at the potent twinge of stinging pleasure. Again and again, he squeezed the soft flesh, the bloodengorged crests throbbing with teeth-gritting intensity. She closed her eyes, enduring the sharp sting, knowing that it would only heighten her pleasure. The bruising grip on her hip brought her eyes open. Michael’s gaze glittered with feverish heat, locked on that pulsing spot between her legs. With one smooth thrust, he was inside her. The soft, pliant tissues of her pussy stretched to accommodate his girth.

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Her blissful cry filled the room. It turned into a low, keening moan when he gave her several sharp taps on the ass. “Yesss.” The skin of her backside flamed with every strike. Lily dug her knees into the cushy mattress and braced herself, taking him deeper, vaguely realizing that she was fucking herself onto him. That didn’t matter anymore. All she could focus on was the pleasure of taking him deep, again and again. And when he tugged on the nipple chain with his left hand while simultaneously spanking her with his right, Lily gasped at the sensations bombarding her. She could no longer discern where the pleasure and pain came from, whether it came from having him inside her, the tight pinch of the clamps on her nipples or the sharp swats he gave her buttocks. It didn’t matter. All of that combined to send her reeling into oblivion. His name was a whisper from her lips as she came, grinding her clit against him, mashing the distended button against his pelvis. Torrents of white-hot pleasure tore through her. His thrusts quickened. Michael tightened his arms around her, fastening his lips to her neck as he, too, came. Weak and boneless, Lily slumped over him, her pounding heart trying to beat its way out of her chest. She stirred when he loosened the ties around her wrists, wincing slightly as blood rushed to her arms. With a gentleness that was touching, Michael slid the clamps off her nipples, massaging the aching tips with soothing fingers. She inhaled deeply, hiding her face in his neck. Around the edges of absolute satiation were tiny, niggling, weird feelings. The sex had been torrid and explosive, more than she’d imagined. But Lily had the strangest feeling that for her, it transcended the physical. Their coupling had been far from romantic and gentle, but all the feelings she’d tried to get rid of surfaced once more. After she’d sworn to herself that she wouldn’t let it go that far. Stop it! This is all about sex. Nothing more. No emotions. No heart. Just the body. Unsettled, she lay back on the bed, closing her eyes tightly. The mattress shifted slightly, and she knew that Michael was looking at her. For reasons she couldn’t 78

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understand, she kept her eyes shut, too perturbed to indulge in post-coital conversation. She felt relieved when he got up off the bed seconds later. A door closed somewhere and there was silence in the room. Turning to her side, she buried her face in a pillow. It was just a momentary lapse of judgment. Love and emotions didn’t come into this. It was only sex. Don’t overanalyze it. Just enjoy it until the weekend is over.

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Chapter Five Lily came awake abruptly, disoriented. Rubbing her eyes, she became aware of a heavy arm lying across her waist, effectively holding her in place. What time was it? A quick peek at the bedside clock showed it was a little after three in the morning. Michael lay next to her, his breathing deep and even. She disentangled herself carefully, trying very hard not to rouse him. After freshening up in the bathroom, she plucked a robe from behind the door and slipped it on before padding downstairs to the kitchen. Dim, recessed lights illuminated her way, casting a muted glow over the cold marble floor. A brief glance at her surroundings revealed ultracontemporary furniture. The whole place looked professionally put together. The cold impersonality of the décor lacked the lived-in, cozy feel of a real home. Lily took a couple of wrong turns before she found the black-and-white-tiled kitchen. She turned in a circle and winced. With everything done in stark colors, she felt like she was in a mausoleum. She hunted for a glass, poured herself some water and drank deeply. “I’m getting tired of you sneaking away.” Lily whirled around. Michael stood at the doorway, dressed in boxer shorts. “I wanted something to drink.” She rubbed her foot against her leg in a nervous gesture. “This place is…different.” He came close to her, plucking the glass from her hand and draining the contents in one gulp. “It’s depressing. Why do you think I need a house?” “It’s not bad, if you like this style,” she commented, feeling inexplicably selfconscious. He was so close he invaded her personal space. Michael’s lips tilted. “I don’t. My house in New York is nothing like this.” He lived in a two-story townhouse in Manhattan, renovated and furnished with elegance and 80

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class. She’d liked the warm, homey feeling it exuded on the couple of occasions she’d been there. “What’s the point of investing in a home in L.A. if you’re eventually going back to New York?” “I’m not going anywhere. I have a lot of work to do here.” His voice was low, slightly amused. He brushed her hair back. “I miss you at the office. My new assistant is efficient enough, I suppose, but she doesn’t have your legs.” Nice try. Michael had never even given her a second glance while she’d worked for him, much less noticed her legs. Lily cleared her throat. “I’m sure your assistant is smart and savvy. You wouldn’t settle for anything less.” “She’s not you.” “How’s Gertie?” she asked, deliberately changing the subject. “Still runs my father’s office like the dragon she is.” The feisty, white-haired dynamo was a force to be reckoned with. “Gertie’s sharp, scary and won’t take crap from anyone.” “Since you left, she’s made it a habit to call me once a day to berate me for letting you go.” Lily didn’t respond. What was she supposed to say? Yeah, you shouldn’t have let me go? “Vanessa had a baby boy, by the way,” he continued. “Thought you’d like to know.” Vanessa was his younger sister. “How wonderful for her and Tom. And Josh?” “Finishing up his last year in business school. Dad can’t wait to have him onboard.” Lily felt wistful for a moment. During her tenure as Michael’s secretary, she’d gotten to know the Rutherfords well. They were undeniably old money and high society, but they had always been friendly to her. “I’m glad your family is doing well. I’ll have to send Vanessa a note and a gift for the baby.”

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Michael murmured something she didn’t catch and threading his fingers with hers, led her to the darkened living room. The late hour cast a hushed, intimate atmosphere around them. Through the window, twinkling city lights lay on a bed of velvet, spread before them like sparkling jewels. “What a beautiful view.” “It’s probably the only redeeming factor in this glass monstrosity.” Standing behind her, he pushed her hair aside to nuzzle her neck. Little sparks of electricity raced under her skin. “Um…new developments like this are very popular. It might be cookie-cutter housing but—” “I don’t give a damn about the house.” He licked his way to her shoulder, pushing aside the terrycloth. He undid the belt of the robe. “Michael…” Her knees turned to jelly. They were right in front of the windows, for heaven’s sake. “Nobody will see.” The robe dropped to the floor. “Even if they do, who cares? Let them watch while I…” he palmed one breast, “fuck you.” The possibility of being watched sent heat swirling between her legs. Excitement, a thirst for the forbidden, filled her. There was something deliciously wicked about having sex while looking out at the night sky. Michael trailed his other hand down past her abdomen, to delve into the moist slit between her legs. The kiss they shared curled her toes. Lily didn’t try to curb her body’s instant and needy response. She reached behind her for his waistband, pushing it down, fumbling in her awkward position until he muttered impatiently and chucked the shorts himself. Her breath caught when he slipped his fingers inside her, spreading her moisture around the slick nether lips. When he gripped her hips, kneeing her legs apart, she thrust back against him with unashamed eagerness, aiding his vigorous entry. She caught her breath. It felt like he slid all the way to her navel.

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He offered her no apologies. Michael fucked her hard and deep, with no thought to gentleness. It was a fast and furious ride, a race toward completion. All too soon, she was cresting. Violent shudders racked her body as she clenched down on his cock. His groan vibrated on her skin as he spilled his seed inside her. Slick with perspiration, gasping for breath, Lily leaned against the window. Her breath misted the glass, and she found Michael’s solemn reflection looking back at her. “I’m glad you’re here.” The simplicity of the words rocked her. It wasn’t a line. It was said with honesty, accompanied by the sincerity in his eyes. She swallowed. “Me, too.” His arms locked like bands around her. Here, in the dark, before a city slumbering in peace, serenity settled over the two of them, enveloping them like an intimate cloud.

***** “You’ve never been to a Farmer’s Market?” Michael grinned at her stupefied reaction. “Nope.” Lily took his hand and led him into the crowded, open-air market. It was Sunday morning, and there were a lot of shoppers around, toting plastic bags filled with fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts and even candies. “You’ve been deprived,” she announced in a teasing voice. “This is your lucky day. I’ll be your tour guide.” Lily moved from stall to stall, pointing out little knickknacks she oohed and aahed over. Today she had on jeans that molded her long, shapely legs and a fitted top that hugged her breasts. He ogled her ass, admiring the plump curves encased in denim as she paused to look at costume jewelry. Her lustrous hair fell to the middle of her back, catching the bright rays of sunshine. She looked utterly beautiful. “Stop it,” Lily chided with a smile. He raised his eyebrows innocently. “What?” “You’re staring at me.”

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Michael chuckled and wrapped an arm around her waist as they strolled. They were in a crowded market, it was noisy and hot, but he didn’t mind. He was actually having fun. They passed by a baker’s stall, the smell of fresh bread wafting through the air. “They sell funnel cakes.” Lily clapped her hands in excitement. “We’ve got to have some.” They bought a couple servings of the fried dough generously sprinkled with powdered sugar. Lily ordered coffee, and bought some cookies to take home. She caught his gaze and gave him a smile that went clear to his soul. Whoa. Wait a minute. This was an unfamiliar feeling, different than the gentle affection he’d felt for Emma that he’d mistaken for love. It was too soon to be thinking he was falling in love with Lily. Or was it? He’d been plagued by strange, heretofore unknown emotions ever since the night of Anton’s party. Angry and disappointed at her sudden disappearance, he’d torn New York apart and focused all his energies into finding Lily, even hiring a private detective to help him. He’d never stopped to consider why he was so affected, why he’d been so obsessed. Even his mother’s matchmaking efforts had failed to get him to go out on dates. Sex had mattered even less. It was only when he’d obtained Lily’s whereabouts from Anton that he’d come to life again, scrambling to delegate his considerable workload to his staff and making hasty arrangements to oversee the West Coast operations of the company’s newest acquisition. He’d even concocted the idea of buying a house and using Lily as his real estate agent so he’d have a legitimate reason to seek her out and spend time with her. The feelings consuming him weren’t just old-fashioned lust. Michael knew himself well enough to admit that. “You okay?” she asked, picking a shaded corner table and sitting down. “You seem far away.”

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He swallowed the new and confusing realization he’d just come to. “Just thinking about…things.” Driven by an intense compulsion, he captured her lips in a gentle kiss. She softened under him, her unguarded response hitting him in the chest. With Lily, there was no need to pretend. No need to hide. Letting the kiss linger, he drew back gradually. “That was nice,” she murmured. He pushed back her hair, thinking how content he was just to be with her. “What do you want to do for the rest of the day?” “You have any suggestions?” “I’m yours to do with as you please.” She laughed. “That’s a pretty dangerous statement.” “Seems only fair since I had my way with you last night,” he reminded her lightly. Her color deepened. “Don’t say that too loud.” Michael laughed and bent low to whisper in her ear. “You don’t want them to know that I tied you up last night?” He licked her ear. “How about this, then? I want to fuck you in the ass. Is that shocking enough for you?” Her blue eyes darkened with heat. “Soon,” he promised, linking his fingers with hers. “For now, we do what you want. Later, you do what I want.” Lily’s pleased smile went directly to his heart. Whatever this strange feeling was, he decided he didn’t mind it. It felt good. It felt right. He leaned back and sipped his coffee, sighing with pleasure. She hadn’t forgotten how he liked it. Everything was right with the world.

***** Lily glanced at Michael, committing to memory the carefree smile that played on his face. She’d seen a whole new side of him, funny and relaxed. He had a way of

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focusing on her that made her feel like she was the only person in the world. It was a far cry from the ruthless, driven businessman who demanded one hundred and ten percent from those around him. She found that she liked it. A lot. But the waning hours of the weekend began to cast a heavy pall over her happiness. This was the end of the line for them. Oh, she’d tried to follow Anton’s advice and lose herself in the joys of sex. In the end, she knew it wasn’t enough for her. She wanted— no, she deserved—more. The drive back to her apartment was accomplished in silence. Conversation was the last thing on her mind. Lily was too busy bracing herself for what she was about to do. Her stomach twisted with dread as Michael parked the car. “I have an idea.” His voice was warm and low, achingly intimate. “Why don’t you get a couple of things and come back with me? I can drop you off at work in the morning.” She gave him a wistful smile. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” “No?” He rubbed a thumb over her lower lip. “I happen to think it’s a great idea.” Her throat clogged with tears. “Michael, I had a wonderful time this weekend.” “Even more reason to come back,” he murmured, his gaze dropping to her lips. “Spending time with you is like a fantasy come true. But,” she forced the words out, “it ends here. It can’t happen again.” Michael froze. “What?” Lily gathered her courage, trying not to waver. “I can’t see you again, not as…as lovers.” His face was carved from stone. “Care to explain how you came to this momentous decision without asking my opinion?” She dared to meet his eyes. “We have great sexual chemistry. I wanted you. You wanted me, too. We both got what we were after.” “Are you trying to say that the weekend was to get each other out of our systems?”

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“You sought me out with only one goal in mind. To take me to bed. We both know it,” she finished sadly. “We do? Or you do?” he bit out. “Don’t you see? It’s just physical. I thought it would be enough for me, that I would be satisfied with just having that part of you. But I want more.” “More?” Tears pooled in her eyes but she blinked them back. “I want your heart. But you don’t have it to give because you’re still in love with Emma.” The shocked look on his face confirmed what she’d thought all along. He still wasn’t over his ex-fiancée. “I guess I’m selfish,” she murmured, clutching her purse and tote bag with nerveless fingers. “I thought I could settle for having a part of you. I was wrong. I want it all, Michael.” She looked at him, uncaring if he saw the agony she felt. “I want all of you.” Her voice broke. “Since you can’t give me that, I don’t think it’s fair that we go on like this. I don’t want to hurt anymore.” Michael sat in stunned silence, unmoving as she opened the door. “Please understand. From now on, I can only see you on a professional level. Nothing else.” A tiny corner of her heart still hoped that he’d gather her in his arms and declare that he loved her. When he didn’t say a word, that hope shriveled up and died. “Goodbye, Michael.” Lily steeled herself and refused to look back. On leaden legs, she climbed the stairs to her apartment, her ears picking up the sound of an engine coming to life and roaring away. It was only then that she let the tears fall. What she had done, was done out of self-preservation. She wished she could be blasé about sex and take it wherever she could get it. Sex just for the heck of it. But she couldn’t. To prolong her time with Michael would only give her more heartache. It was over.

*****

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A cool, evening breeze wafted through the patio. Michael stared unseeingly at the dazzling view, cradling a glass of whiskey on his stomach, his legs propped up on the wrought iron table. The clear, balmy night failed to soothe the restlessness eating away at him. Lily’s words echoed in his mind, replaying like a horrible yet unforgettable refrain from a song. You sought me out with only one goal in mind. To take me to bed. Is that what she really thought? That he’d only come here to have sex with her? Sure, he would be lying if he said he hadn’t wanted to, but it wasn’t all he was after. His feelings had changed. This weekend had cemented what he’d suspected all along. There was a deeper connection between him and Lily, one that transcended the physical. He knew this because his experience with Emma had taught him the difference. Never again would he mistake friendship and companionship for love. He wanted the real deal. The kind that took hold and blinded you to everything else, the kind that made you vulnerable to pain and heartache while at the same time giving you indescribable happiness and joy. The time he’d just spent with Lily had given him a taste of that. Tossing the whiskey down his throat, Michael winced at the fiery, potent taste. There was only one thing to do. He had to prove to Lily wrong.

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Chapter Six Much as Lily tried to keep her mind on the job, she found herself casting expectant glances at her phone over the next few days, willing it to ring. But it didn’t. Not even once. Michael’s assistant had called to let her know that he had decided to purchase the house on Paseo de la Paz. Everything would be handled through his attorney. With their business concluded, there was no reason for him to even see her again. Tears stung her eyes. How the hell had things gone so wrong? She kept on replaying their parting in her mind, wishing she could turn back time and start over. Sleepless nights were taking their toll. By the end of the week, Lily was a wreck. After a meager three hours of sleep, she jumped at the shrill peal of the alarm. Morning already? It seemed like she’d just closed her eyes five minutes ago. The shower failed to invigorate her and she had a headache that was killing her. Tired and irritable, she dressed and made her way down to her car. Tossing her stuff inside, she turned the key in the ignition. The engine sputtered once, twice, before falling silent. “No,” she moaned. “Don’t do this today.” The same thing happened when she tried again, the sound more piteous than before. She pounded on the steering wheel. “Damn it. What else can go wrong?” Pulling out her cell phone, she got the number of the local garage and paced impatiently while it rang. It was then she spotted the flat tire. Throwing up her hands in surrender, tears filled her eyes. She was batting a thousand today. It felt like fate was conspiring against her, adding to the misery she already felt. After the tow truck came to take her car to the garage, Lily informed the office she wouldn’t be in. She lay down on the couch and stared at the ceiling, wallowing in selfpity. When the doorbell rang, she ignored it. It continued to buzz insistently. Evidently,

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whoever was out there wasn’t going away. She trudged to the door and pulled it open. The shock of seeing Michael at the doorstep robbed her of words. “I called you at work but you weren’t in. Are you okay?” His gentle, solicitous tone nearly made her cry. “I…ah…I’m having a bad day. A bad week. Car problems.” She sniffled. “W-why are you here?” “Our parting was…unpleasant.” It was a huge understatement and they both knew it. “We need to talk.” A somber air surrounded him. He looked serious. She moved aside to let him in, her heart thudding in apprehension. Was he going to say goodbye? Had she finally driven him away? Michael pulled in a deep breath. “I’ve known Emma since we were kids. Our families are close friends and—” Lily’s stomach plummeted. Not Emma again. “Please. You don’t have to tell me anything. I don’t want to—” “Just listen, because I’m only going to say this once.” His tone brooked no argument. When she clamped her mouth shut and just stared at him, Michael raked a hand through his hair. “Our mothers harbored fantasies of us marrying each other, creating a Fairchild-Rutherford blood connection.” Of course. People like the Rutherfords and Fairchilds invariably drifted toward their equals. Yet one more reason why it was futile to think that Michael would ever fall for her. She was just Lily McIntyre, an ordinary girl orphaned at a young age, with no impressive family lineage to brag about. “Emma and I were thrown together at every opportunity. Somehow, we ended up together. I didn’t complain, because Emma and I got along well enough.” He shrugged. “She was certainly better company than most other women I knew.” Hearing about his relationship with his ex-fiancée was like rubbing salt into Lily’s wounded spirit. Was he trying to break her heart all over again? “You don’t have to do this. Really.”

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He continued, as if she hadn’t spoken. “For Emma, I was convenient. I kept other men at bay. It was an unspoken agreement between us. We were friends, so comfortable with each other that it seemed natural to get engaged after a while.” He sighed. “Then Luke Forrester suddenly came back into her life. Up until that point, I hadn’t known about their history. It wasn’t long before Emma realized she wasn’t in love with me. She never had been.” His gaze focused on Lily. “I’m grateful Emma broke off our engagement before it was too late. Otherwise, we’d have been trapped in a marriage that neither of us wanted.” Silence fell between them. Only then did Michael eliminate the distance that separated him from Lily. He tipped her chin up, forcing her to look at him. “You’re wrong. I wasn’t devastated because Emma left me. I was angry at myself for letting things get so out of hand.” “But—but you were heartbroken.” “Not even close. I was eaten up by guilt,” he confessed. “Most of all, I was pissed that I almost married a woman I didn’t love because it was expected of me. I fooled myself into thinking Emma could make me happy when she didn’t even know about my sexual predilections.” Lily could only stare at him wide-eyed. “Emma had no idea about Anton’s parties. I—we—never did anything even remotely like that in the bedroom. I was relieved when she ended our engagement. Sooner or later, I would have made her miserable.” His gaze found hers. “I was never in love with Emma.” Lily could barely process what Michael was telling her. He wasn’t in love with Emma? “Which brings me to why I’m here. I want us to start over.” “Start over?” She sounded like a damn parrot. “Let’s put the past behind us. Wipe the slate clean.” His voice was low and persuasive, edged with determination.

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“And what then?” she whispered, forcing the words past the tightness clogging her throat. “That’s the beauty of starting over. Neither of us knows what’s going to happen.” He sounded so reasonable, so logical. Yes! The urge to agree was overwhelming. Still, a niggling doubt held her back. “I don’t know, Michael.” “I don’t have all the answers.” His dark, intense gaze locked on her. “Why not take each day as it comes?” He had a point, but it didn’t stem the flow of questions that hovered on her tongue. What did it mean? Did they pretend that their past didn’t exist? She wanted—needed— answers. He ran a thumb over her lower lip, a tender smile playing around his lips. “Don’t over think it.” For the last few days, Lily had thought of nothing but the way they’d parted, turning it over and over in her mind to see if she could have done things differently. She must have picked up the phone half a dozen times to call him, to talk, only to change her mind. Now Michael was here with a peace offering, asking to start over. How could she say no? She already knew what her answer was going to be. “All right. But…” “No buts,” he interrupted softly. “Just give us a chance.”

***** They began to spend a lot of time together, enabling Lily to get to know Michael on a personal level. He shared intimate details with her about his childhood and his family. In turn, he asked her numerous questions, intent on learning every facet of her life. By all appearances, she and Michael were a couple. They went out on dates. They spent time together. If he wasn’t with her, he called her frequently. But in spite of everything, all was not well in her world. 92

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He’d taken her out to dinner three times, three times, and each time, he’d left her at the door with a chaste kiss on the cheek. Not once did he act untoward or even try to steal a kiss or cop a feel. What the hell was wrong with him? Lily found herself yearning for the old Michael. The one who never hesitated to touch her, to kiss her, to fondle her whenever he felt like it. She missed the way he acted like a lover, missed their sexy, arousing banter. She kept trying to catch him ogling her ass or checking out her breasts. Nothing. He behaved impeccably. He didn’t make a pass at her or try to take her to bed. She simmered with unfulfilled desire. When they were together, her lips would actually tingle with the need to kiss him. She’d flex her fingers, clenching them into fists to stop herself from touching him. It was driving her crazy, being with him, yet not. He’s trying to kill me. The thought bounced around in Lily’s head as they sat in a darkened movie theater. The sci-fi blockbuster they were watching didn’t even register in her brain. She and Michael were sharing a tub of hot, buttery popcorn. Their fingers would occasionally touch when they reached in at the same time. The brief contact was like an electrical charge, stinging her skin. She scooted closer, shifting so that his arm brushed the side of her breast. Twice. Yet all he did was move his arm out of the way. Lily spent two hours stewing in frustration. She was horny, damn it. Being near him yet unable to have him made her feel like a kid peering through the windows of a locked candy store. Her eyes were drawn again and again to the smattering of couples openly making out in the dim theater. Get a room. Her irritation, of course, stemmed from the fact that she wasn’t getting any. What was Michael trying to prove anyway? That they could be together without sex? “Come inside for a drink.” She invited him in later, when he would have just dropped her off at her door. Without waiting for an answer, she kissed him, sending her tongue snaking over his lips. But he just unlocked her apartment, saw her inside and left. What the fuck?

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Hunger was a living, breathing thing inside her, further aggravating her rising dissatisfaction. She tried to bring it up in normal conversation but he wouldn’t bite. Okay, so talking didn’t work. Obviously, she had to try something else. Lily invited him over for dinner, taking pains to create an intimate atmosphere in her tiny apartment. Different-sized candles were scattered around the room, casting a soft, sexy glow. The dress she had on was scandalously short, with a wide scooped-neck bodice that put the majority of her chest on display. When the doorbell rang, she grinned and rubbed her hands together. Watch out, Michael. Tonight, you’re mine. But other than a brief but obvious hesitation when he first glimpsed her, Michael acted no differently. Lily wasn’t about to be deterred. All throughout dinner, she found excuses to be near him, running her fingers in his hair, brushing against him, just touching him. At one point, on the pretext of refilling his wineglass, she bent so close to him that her breasts nearly popped out of her dress. Michael looked—how could he not with them practically in his face?—and his gaze did linger for a little while, but other than that, he kept his hands off her. O…kay. Not quite the reaction she was after, but it was a start. With dinner over, Lily sat as close to him as she could without actually ending up in his lap. She nuzzled his ear, inhaling his unique masculine scent. “Lily,” he warned softly. Moving down the side of his neck, she nipped softly at his skin. “Hmm?” Her hands fluttered to his collar, managing to undo the first two buttons of his shirt. He trapped her hand under his. “I know what you’re trying to do.” Just being this near him again, touching him, kissing him, was intoxicating. “You do? Goody,” she applauded softly, shifting to sit on his lap. His thick cock rested directly under her crotch. Oh, yes. He was aroused, which was half the battle. Taking him by surprise, she captured his lips and sent her tongue exploring the cavern of his mouth. The instant response she garnered acted like a balm to her frustrated body. She moaned, taking teasing bites of his lower lip. “Touch me.” 94

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Michael’s low groan was music to her ears. Lily gave a silent cheer when he abruptly pulled her stretchy bodice down, baring her breasts. He fastened his lips to an aching nipple, sucking her tight and deep. There was little gentleness in the way he devoured her flesh, but Lily didn’t mind. She wanted hot and urgent, fast and hard. Holding him close, plunging her hands into his thick hair, she rejoiced in the minor victory. But Michael let her go. He was breathing hard, his jaw clenched tight. Undeterred, Lily boldly pulled his hand under her skirt, letting him feel the wetness dampening her thong. “Damn it, Lily.” Despite his words, his fingers curved inward, bypassing her tiny scrap of underwear and plunging deep within her slick pussy. “Yes. Please. Like that.” She thrust against him, drawing him deeper, clenching around the digits, trying to let him know how much she needed him. “You’re so wet.” He ate at her lips, devouring her in a rapacious kiss. A sigh and a whimper was all she could utter. She managed to unbutton his shirt halfway before slipping her hands inside, needing to touch bare, warm skin. “I’ve been a bad girl, Michael,” she breathed against his lips. “You’re going to have to spank me.” When he froze, she moaned in protest. “Noooo.” “We have to stop,” he gritted. “No, we don’t.” She rubbed her aching nipples against his chest, almost frantic with need. Michael held her still and laid his forehead against hers. “Lily.” The tender way he whispered her name got her attention. “When you accused me of wanting you only for sex, you were right.” Lily stared at him in surprise. “I was obsessed with finding you after you disappeared. You gave me one hell of a night and I wanted more. Sex was my motivation. I wasn’t going to stop until I had you again. When you dared to throw that in my face, I realized how badly I treated you.” Michael tipped her chin up. “I respect you, Lily. You’re a generous, passionate woman. 95

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I want to prove that sex is not the only driving force in this relationship. The time we’ve spent together has shown me that there’s more to us.” He kissed her tenderly. “I enjoy being with you. You’re funny. You’re sweet. You understand me. Heck, you probably know me better than any other woman I’ve dated.” “The things I said the night we argued…” She licked her lips. “I was trying to protect myself, Michael. I didn’t want to get hurt. You don’t have to prove anything to me now.” He gave her a sexy, crooked grin. “We’ve done everything backwards. We had the sex before the relationship. So from here on out, we’re doing it right.” She groaned against his neck. “It’s not necessary. I need you, Michael. So much.” His cock was a thick, hard length beneath her. “I want you,” she whispered against his lips. “I want to feel you inside me.” The kiss she gave him was unapologetically carnal. “Don’t you want me, too?” Her tongue delved inside his mouth, tasting him. “Tie me up. Blindfold me. Spank me.” Michael suddenly flipped her over on the couch. He thumbed her clit, sending two fingers plunging deep in her dripping channel, with powerful lunges that drove the breath from her lungs. Her body was so starved, so primed, that it didn’t take long for her to come. After being denied so long, the pleasure was sharp, sweet and ended far too soon. He lay over her, his shaft a stiff length against her thigh. “Michael, let me—” He stayed her hands. “That was for you.” “No,” she protested. “Yes.” His reply was firm. “I could fuck you here and now, Lily, but there would always be lingering doubts in your mind. We’re going to take this nice and slow and give it a chance to grow. This time, we’re going to do things right. By the time I fuck you again, there won’t be a single doubt left in your mind.”

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Chapter Seven Screw doing things the right way. A woman was allowed to change her mind, wasn’t she? Why couldn’t I have kept my mouth shut? Lily regretted accusing Michael of wanting her only for sex. The sheer frustration, the aching arousal that was her companion day and night was slowly draining her. So what if she was fickle? Circumstances had changed. They actually had a relationship. A real one, without the shadow of his ex-fiancée hanging over it. They were probably the only adults in the whole country who were dating without doing the horizontal tango. Lily was at her wit’s end. She wanted to get laid. No sense in sugarcoating it. She longed to play games, to be tied up and fucked within an inch of her life. What on earth did she have to do to get it? Maddie’s invitation to a barbecue at her house proved to be a godsend, giving her an opportunity to spend time away from Michael. He had a late morning golf game with some colleagues, but he wanted to meet after. She left him a brief message, telling him where she would be and rattling off Maddie’s address. There was only one thing left to do. Ask the girls for advice. “Hey, Lil.” Maddie gave her a hug before taking the seat next to her. “I haven’t seen much of you lately.” She eyed Lily’s tall glass of iced tea. “You’re not hungry?” “Not really.” Lily gave her cousin a sheepish smile. “I’ve been pretty busy.” Amanda and Kylie took up the remaining chairs of the wrought iron patio set. The swimming pool sparkled invitingly in the bright sunlight, the gurgling sound of its waterfall enhancing the serenity of the backyard. Kylie sipped some lemonade before grinning at Lily. “Do you have something to tell us?” 97

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Amanda chuckled, spearing a chunk of watermelon with her fork. “A little birdie tells us she’s seen you a couple of times with a very handsome gentleman caller.” “Just ‘fess up, Lily. One of my waitresses at the coffee shop has seen you.” Maddie wiggled her eyebrows. “Says he’s very hot.” “That’s why you haven’t been around,” Kylie piped in teasingly. A flush spread over Lily’s cheeks. “There is someone.” “Do tell,” Amanda invited, leaning forward with eagerness. Lily traced random patterns on the misted glass in front of her. “I knew him back in New York.” “Small world,” Kylie commented, chewing on her salad. Maddie frowned and held up a hand. “Wait a minute. This isn’t the same guy that caused you to move out here, is it?” “Actually, yeah,” Lily admitted sheepishly. “He is.” “Is it wise for you to date him again? I mean, I’m assuming you left New York because things didn’t work out for you the first time,” Maddie reasoned, her tone tinged with concern. “How long did you two date, anyway?” “We didn’t.” Their identical expressions of shock would have been funny if Lily was in the mood to laugh. Amanda recovered first. “What exactly do you mean?” “I was the stereotypical secretary in love with her boss.” Kylie’s vivid blue eyes grew as round as saucers. “Oh, that’s the worst.” “Tell me about it,” Lily agreed with a rueful smile. “I worked for him for a year. That’s a long time to want someone who’s oblivious of you.” Maddie squeezed Lily’s hand. “Oh, honey. Unrequited love is the pits.” “The biggest blow of all was when he became engaged to another woman.” “I’m sorry,” Amanda commiserated. “I can only imagine how tough that was to take.” 98

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“That’s when you left?” Maddie asked. Lily gave a choked laugh. “Are you kidding me? Like a fool, I stayed, still hoping for a fairytale ending. That one day, he’d look at me and fall hopelessly in love.” Kylie patted her hand. “Subtlety doesn’t work on men, sweetie. It doesn’t sink in until you hit them over the head with it.” “Don’t I know it,” Lily murmured. “When the wedding was called off, I thought it was my lucky day. He was finally free.” She sighed. “But I was wrong. He seemed…devastated. I knew it was time to quit my job.” Maddie frowned. “I don’t understand. Then why is he here?” Lily was a trifle hesitant to divulge intimate details. “Well…I sort of did something before I left.” The three friends exchanged puzzled glances. “What do you mean ‘sort of’?” Amanda asked. “We spent one night together.” For one moment, Maddie, Kylie and Amanda stared at her in disbelief before they broke out in excited hoots of laughter. Kylie recovered first. “Oh, Lily, I knew you were a naughty girl.” “Well, don’t just drop that bombshell without giving us any details,” Maddie admonished with a teasing smile. Lily squirmed in her chair. “I sent him an invitation to…to…you know…play.” “Sounds kinky,” Amanda drawled. “To make a long story short,” Lily ignored their combined groans of protest and subsequent demands for details, “I snuck away the next morning. One night was all I wanted. I didn’t expect to ever see him again.” “And now he’s here.” Maddie raised her eyebrows. “You must have given him one hell of a night for him to make the effort to find you.”

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Lily fought the hot blush she could feel spreading over her cheeks. “Which brings me to why I’m here in the first place. I need some advice.” Kylie slapped the table with her palm, an irrepressible grin playing around her lips. “Well, you came to the right place. We women have to stick together. What’s going on?” “I…ah…accused him of only wanting me for sex.” Maddie winced. “Ooh. I bet he didn’t like that at all.” “No,” she confirmed with a shake of her head. “I thought I’d ruined everything for sure, but he came back and wanted to start over. Forget the past and begin anew.” “It sure doesn’t sound like he’s only after sex,” Amanda observed gently. “I have to agree,” Kylie put in. “He had the sex already, and if that was truly all he came for…” She shrugged. “He didn’t have to stick around.” “We’re dating,” Lily blurted out. “What’s wrong with that?” Maddie asked, clearly confused. “Nothing. The problem is, we’re not having sex at all.” The confession brought all of Lily’s misery to the surface. “Michael insists on doing it right this time. He wants to prove that we have something more than just physical attraction. No sex to muddy the waters,” she finished glumly. Kylie grinned. “And not having sex is driving you crazy.” Lily exhaled loudly. “Yes! So bad I ache with it. This is torture, pure, unadulterated torture. Every night he takes me home and we make out, but he always stops. What should I do?” Maddie chuckled. “You know what they say. Be careful what you wish for.” “I think he’s a sweetheart,” Amanda declared with a dreamy look on her face. “He’s taking the time to nurture your relationship without clouding it with sex. That can’t be easy for a man.” Especially a man like Michael, who liked to indulge in erotic games. 100

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Maddie smiled. “He must really care for you.” “I think it’s romantic,” Amanda gushed. “I just want to be with him again,” Lily admitted in fervent tones. Kylie narrowed her eyes. “Aww, jeez. You’ve got it bad.” What’s the use in denying it? Michael Rutherford had always had her heart. “I do.” Maddie rose and hugged her. “I’m so happy for you, Lily. When you first arrived, I was so worried about you. It was obvious you were nursing a broken heart.” Lily eyed the three women who’d become her close friends. “So how do I get him to forget about the no-sex policy?” “Are we talking surrender or total annihilation?” Kylie asked. Amanda chuckled. “Uh-oh. Don’t get Kylie started.” Just then, Gavin came around the thick hedge bordering the backyard, followed by a tall, dark-haired Michael dressed casually in jeans and a polo shirt. “Well, hellooo,” Kylie muttered under her breath in appreciation. “I hear that,” Amanda agreed softly. “Yummy.” As always, just the sight of Michael stirred Lily’s senses. Her pussy came alive, pulsing in anticipation. Across the yard, his gaze connected with hers. His smile was warm and intimate as he made his way over with Gavin. “Well, well,” Maddie murmured with amusement. “It seems we’re about to meet Lily’s mystery man.” “You didn’t tell us he was such a hottie,” Amanda chided in a whisper. Kylie swiveled around with a wide smile. “He’s some serious eye candy.” Gavin grinned as he came upon them. “Guess who was at the front door looking for Lily?” Lily surged to her feet, blushing. “Hi, Michael,” she breathed softly.

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“Hi, yourself.” He gave her a lingering kiss on the lips. Her nipples actually tingled at the contact. God, I’m one horny woman. Michael aimed a disarming grin at the three women who watched him with avid expressions. “Hello, ladies.” He casually linked his fingers with Lily’s, which didn’t escape the attention of the others. “Hello.” Maddie was the first one to speak, extending her hand. “I’m Madison, Lily’s cousin and Gavin’s wife.” “Michael Rutherford. I’m pleased to meet you. I just discovered that Gavin and I actually have some mutual friends.” Gavin waved his hand airily. “A couple of college buddies.” “I didn’t know you had family out here,” Michael commented to Lily. “It, um, never came up,” she mumbled. By turns, she introduced him to Kylie and Amanda. “Come on, Michael,” Gavin invited. “Let’s grab a beer and leave the ladies to it.” Together, the men walked over to the built-in granite bar at the far end of the yard. As soon as the men were out of earshot, Kylie turned to Lily with a naughty gleam in her eyes. “With that man, nothing less than total annihilation will do.” Amanda grinned. “I agree. You have to knock his socks off and make him forget about the no-sex policy.” Lily glanced once more at Michael, who was holding a chilled bottle of beer and chatting with Gavin. He looked totally at ease with her friends and family. Like he already belonged. “What should I do?” “Don’t worry.” Kylie grinned. “We’ll have to plan something big. Big and unexpected. Michael Rutherford won’t know what hit him.”

***** Lily smoothed down the demure, knee-length skirt of her dress, resisting the urge to pace. Her stomach did odd little flips, refusing to settle down. 102

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The bungalow she’d rented was steps away from the sand. White-capped waves hit the shore, and a warm, salty sea breeze filled the stylish rental. It was set apart from the other bungalows by strategically planted palms and lush plants. Everything was in place. The only thing missing was Michael, who should arrive any minute now. “Don’t be scared,” she mumbled. “You can do this. It’s a piece of cake.” She jumped at the knock on the door. “Showtime,” she whispered as she hurried to answer it. Michael hugged her as soon as the door swung open. “I got your message and came as soon as I could. Is everything all right?” Lily closed the door and faced him. “Everything’s fine. I just… I need to talk to you.” “Sounds serious. Should I be nervous?” “This is very important to me and I need you to listen very carefully,” she requested softly, leading him to the plump, cushioned sofa. “Don’t talk. Just listen.” He sat down at her urging, leaning back in an utterly masculine pose. A surge of arousal hit her at that moment, interrupting her train of thought. Concentrate, Lily. There’ll be time enough for that later. Lily paced in front of him, her heels clicking softly on the polished hardwood floor. “These last few weeks have been amazing. I’ve enjoyed spending time with you, Michael.” She bit her lip and stopped in front of him. “I feel that we’ve gotten to know each other pretty well. Don’t you agree?” He surged to his feet, an air of tension suddenly surrounding him. The change in him was immediate and palpable. “If you’re about to give me some bullshit about not seeing each other again, let me stop you right there. I’m not buying it.” “Please, let me finish.” Lily put some distance between them. She just couldn’t think when he stood so near. “I fell in love with you the very first day I met you.” He took a step toward her but Lily stopped him. “I’m not done. Please. Just listen.” She pulled in a deep, fortifying breath. “Working for you was heaven and hell. I was

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ecstatic to be near you, but miserable because you were in love with a woman who eventually left you for another man.” “I told you—” Lily held up a hand. “I know. But at the time, I believed you were in love with Emma. What was I supposed to think? Anton called me ten kinds of fool for loving you.” “You went out with him.” The jealousy in his voice rang clear. She shrugged it off with a small smile. “He’s a friend, nothing more. He helped get me through the rough days and cheered me up when I needed it. Most of all, he helped me plan the night of his party.” Her eyes met his. “I love you, Michael,” she confessed softly. “I’ve loved you for so long and I know I’ll love you forever. After the weekend we spent together, I was miserable without you. If you hadn’t shown up when you did, I think I would have eventually gone back to you. Sacrificed my pride, just as long as we were together.” Her voice caught. “But thank God you came back. We have something special. I know it and you know it.” Lily licked her suddenly dry lips. “The happiness I feel when I’m with you scares me sometimes. I still can’t believe that we’re together. It’s like a dream. Our relationship means the world to me.” She swallowed the lump in her throat. “I just want to be with you. I need to be with you.” She reached for the heavy, linen envelope on the table and handed it to him. “This is for you.” Her heart pounded in her chest as she turned away and walked into the bedroom, carefully locking the door behind her.

A host of emotions swelled inside Michael. Lily’s confession pulled the rug out from under him. She loves me. That was his only coherent thought. He couldn’t get past it. He clutched the envelope in his hand. He tore it open and found a key inside. A card, made of thick, elegant paper, simply said, An Invitation to Play. His heart nearly erupted out of his chest. He couldn’t suppress the short burst of laughter that exploded 104

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from deep within him. Happiness seeped under his skin, infusing his body with warmth. He took the key, walked the short distance to the door and unlocked it. Lily knelt on the bed, dressed in a sexy black ensemble with sheer flyaway panels. A satin bow held the barely there cups of the top together, caging the magnificent swells of her breasts. Matching panties completed the outfit. “Yes or no. That’s all you have to say.” “Hell, yes.” She closed her eyes momentarily. “I’m glad.” “But before we do this—” “No, Michael,” Lily groaned. “No more talking—” “I love you, too.” His quiet declaration cut off her words. “I’m surprised you couldn’t tell. I thought it was painfully obvious how hard I was falling for you.” Lily’s eyes welled with tears. “Really?” “My heart belongs to you,” Michael stated with straightforward honesty. “I’ve never loved anybody the way I love you. You’re the missing half of me.” He unbuttoned his shirt. “I went crazy after you left New York. I looked for you everywhere, even hired a private detective to find you.” Her eyes went wide. “You did?” Michael shrugged off the shirt. “If I’d known you had family here, I would’ve found you sooner. As it was, I was ready to turn my back on a lifelong friendship if Anton didn’t tell me where you were.” “Don’t blame him,” she pleaded softly. “I begged him to help me. He was the only one who knew how I felt about you.” Her eyes devoured every inch of his body as he stepped out of his pants. “You know what this means, don’t you?” he asked, casually removing his boxers. His cock, so long denied, bobbed excitedly at being freed. She licked her lips, staring at the thick stalk of flesh before her. “What?”

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“You’re never getting away from me.” The look she gave him was sultry and tempting. “I’m not going anywhere.” “Damn right.” He upended a tote bag that lay at the foot of the bed. An array of sex toys came tumbling out, along with leather cuffs, a whip, a flogger and a blindfold. “You planned for everything, it seems.” The flush that reddened her cheeks was delightful. “Yes, I did.” “Master,” he reminded her softly. “Master,” she repeated dutifully. “In the bedroom,” she added with a naughty grin. He smiled, loving her independent streak. “As long as you don’t forget it.” The deep breath she took nearly pushed her breasts out of the low-cut top. “Never, Master.” She looked at him hungrily. “I’ve waited for so long. Don’t make me wait any longer.” “Show me.” The flimsy top fell away easily, her plump breasts bobbing temptingly. The eagerness with which she undid the ties of the panties was telling. Lily’s gaze was inviting, her legs splayed shamelessly wide to reveal her glistening labia. “So pretty,” he murmured. He fisted his cock, gritting his teeth at the sudden surge of lust in his body. His balls knotted with the need to explore the wet folds. “Does the thought that you’re about to have me inside you turn you on?” Her hips rose off the bed in a hypnotic, rhythmic motion. “Too much. I can’t wait.” Michael joined her on the bed, smoothing his hand up her thigh, skirting her weeping sex. Lily uttered a soft protest, arching her hips, trying to draw him in. He pressed his fingers inside the hot, pulsing slit, biting back a groan at the eager way she clenched around him. The heat of her pussy felt like flames licking at his control. His cock twitched and bobbed, pointing toward the damp opening waiting eagerly for him. Not yet.

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He explored the sodden folds. Back and forth, over and under, his touch light and fluttering, teasing, until she uttered a low, choked moan in protest. Only then did he plunge his fingers inside once more, thrusting hard and deep before pulling back. Lily shook her head in mute protest, a soft gasp escaping her lips as his drenched fingers strummed over the puckered ring of her anus. The shock in her eyes gave way to excitement. He clenched his jaw, gathering more of her cream and swirling it around the tight entrance. The lubrication enabled him to penetrate her ass with one finger. Lily jumped. “Like it?” At her wordless nod, he worked more of the digit in, gauging her reaction carefully. He pressed deeper, insistent, until his whole finger was engulfed in the dark, unexplored territory. “Michael,” she shuddered. Just the thought of possessing her that way sent anticipation streaking down his spine, electrifying his balls, spreading to his shaft. “Can you imagine how my cock will feel inside you? Like this?” He withdrew gently, forging back in, gritting his teeth at the yielding of the taut ring. A helpless cry escaped her lips. Michael made a desperate grab for control as she clamped down, the muscles unbelievably tight. He leaned close, looming over her, capturing the expressions that chased one another across her face. A nipple pouted at him, and unable to resist, he curled his tongue around the rigid tip while getting her used to the feel of having him in her ass. “Ohmigod, Michael.” His hand splayed over her tummy, holding her steady as he plied her with his fingers and tongue. Lily arched into his touch, her elbows braced on the bed, mewling cries falling from her lips. He knew she was close.

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With a muttered oath, he pulled his fingers out and placed the head of his shaft at her pussy. In one forceful thrust, he was seated to the hilt. Her scream rolled over him, her body adjusting to the sudden invasion. He gave her little time to catch her breath before stroking hard, reaching as deep as he could. A violent shudder tore through her body, and she threw her head back in ecstasy. By the fourth thrust, she jerked against him and shook. Her muscles clasped his cock in a fierce grip, contracting with unbelievable strength. He rode out her tremors, pounding away until she gave a last, silent gasp and quieted down. He wasn’t done yet. Michael reached behind him, grabbing a handful of the sex toys blindly and pulling them forward. A pair of shiny, brand-new nipple clamps caught his eye. With his cock still inside her pulsing cunt, he fastened a rubber tip around one areola. Lily’s eyes opened at the faint, pinching sensation, just as he clamped the other one. Gradually, he compressed the deliciously swollen nubs, tightening the clamps just enough to heighten her pleasure. She moaned at the pinch, biting her lip. “Your nipples look so beautiful clamped like this.” Holding her gaze, he grabbed a tube of lubricant and squeezed a liberal amount on his palm. Lily’s breath caught. Only then did he pull his cock out of her, glistening with her juices. He added the lubricant, oiling himself thoroughly, letting her see, heightening the anticipation. Her growing excitement was plain in the sudden acceleration of her breathing. She licked her lips, sweat dampening her skin, her breasts quivering. “You’re going to like this,” he promised her softly. His cock bumped against her tight anal ring. Lily tensed. “Relax.” He worked the head in, letting the lubrication do its job. Scant moments later, the tip slipped inside. The stretch of her muscles brought a cry to her lips, but Lily didn’t stiffen up. Her fingers clenched the bedsheets, holding on tight.

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“Oh, babe,” he whispered, fighting the instinct to just push in all the way and claim what was his. “You’re so tight. This is going to feel so good. So good. Just let it happen. It’ll fit, trust me.” The sensations built while Michael worked his cock deeper and deeper inside her. The mixture of pleasure and pain flowing through Lily was reflected in her dazed eyes, her open lips working soundlessly. He kneaded her breasts, squeezing the bloodengorged nipples until finally, finally, his balls rested against her buttocks. Fuck. He was all the way in. “You’re mine, Lily.” She gasped. “I love you,” he declared softly. He knew Lily was already lost, flying on the wings of pleasure and pain. Gritting his teeth, he thrust his cock again and again inside her. Shards of white-hot pleasure tore at his control. It felt so good. Her ass clamped tightly around him, imprisoning his cock at every thrust, trying to hold him in when he withdrew. It was the best kind of torture. He brought one hand down to ply her swollen clit. Lily’s pleas sailed over his head. Michael rode her hard, never letting up even through the monster orgasm that slammed into her, wanting to push her harder than she’d ever been pushed before. His balls tightened, a tingling rush traveled up his cock, and he released his come in hard spurts inside her ass. He groaned, shudders attacking his body as weeks of pent-up hunger came unraveled. With one final thrust, Michael slumped over her as weakness stole over his body. He stirred some time later, remembering to unclip the clamps from her nipples. Seeking to soothe her, he lapped at her nipples with gentle strokes of his tongue. Lily moaned and wrapped her arms around him. “I love you,” she whispered. And she said it again and again throughout the long night they spent together. When the warm glow of the rising sun filtered through the gauzy curtains, she woke to find Michael watching her intently. “You’re up early.”

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“I couldn’t sleep.” He nuzzled her breast. “What if I woke up and found you gone again?” His tone was light and teasing, but Lily detected the seriousness underneath. “I’m not going anywhere,” she promised. “Good. Because I’ll just bring you back and tie you down if I have to.” “You don’t ever have to worry about that.” She cupped his cheek, giving him a loving kiss. “We’re together. That’s all that matters.” As the sun rose high in the sky, Lily kissed Michael, declaring her love again and again, a promise of commitment and togetherness—forever.

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Epilogue Lily would never tire of the view that greeted her at the end of the long, winding driveway. The house on Paseo de la Paz that she’d loved and admired for so long was now the home she shared with Michael. Strategically placed lights illuminated the stunning façade, adding to the warmth of the burnished earth color that accentuated its beauty and elegance. A year on and the sight still took her breath away. Some days it was hard to believe she actually lived here with the man she loved. The garage door opened to reveal a gray luxury sedan parked inside. Michael’s home early, she thought. Her steps light and eager, she entered the house and found a single, long-stemmed rose on the table in the hallway. A note nearby simply said Follow the roses. Sniffing the fragrant bloom, Lily picked up another one a few feet away. The note next to this one had an arrow pointing the way. Three more roses led her to the dining room, where she found a beautifully set table, topped by a crystal candelabra and exquisite china settings. Michael stood next to it with a big grin on his face. “Hi.” She smiled. “Hi. What’s up with the flowers?” He took her hand in his. “Just a little something I prepared for you. Long day?” She linked her fingers through his. “Sort of. I have a difficult client who can’t make up her mind.” He chuckled. “Forget it. You’re home now.” He pulled out a chair for her. “Time to relax and enjoy.” Lily sat down and toed off her high heels, sighing in relief. “Sounds good.” He took the seat across from her. As if on cue, two servers came out of the kitchen. One held a wine bottle, the other a plate of artfully arranged hors d’oeuvres. A young

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woman followed them. “Good evening. My name is Amy. I’ll be preparing your dinner tonight.” Lily raised her eyebrows. “Special occasion?” Michael gave her a mysterious smile. “Just sit back. You don’t have to do a thing.” As the delicious entrées came in one by one, Lily tried every single one of them at Michael’s request. He even fed her small bites, asking her which one she liked best. “I like them all,” she confessed around a mouthful of perfectly cooked lobster. Michael grinned, refilling her wineglass. “Surely there’s one you liked better than the others?” Lily laughed. “I’m an equal opportunity eater. I can’t pick just one.” Amy came out once more. “In a few minutes, I’ll be serving different kinds of cake.” She handed Lily a business card that read Delicious Dishes—Wedding Caterers. The writing had barely registered in her mind when Michael placed his hand on the table, palm up, cupping a ring with a beautiful yellow diamond in a platinum setting. “What do you say we make this permanent?” Tears came to Lily’s eyes. “You have the caterers already,” she remarked stupidly, saying the first thing that came to her mind. “What can I say?” he quipped with irrepressible charm. “I’m a take-charge kind of guy.” She sniffled. “Control freak, you mean.” “You love the control freak in me.” His eyes stared directly into hers, earnest and honest. “Don’t you?” Lily linked her fingers with his, returning his solemn gaze. “I’ve loved you for so long. I can’t remember a time when I haven’t.” Michael let out a deep breath and kissed her hand. “I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I’m glad you’re mine. I love you, Lily.” A fat tear rolled down her cheek. “For the rest of my life, I’ll love you and only you.”

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“A lifetime, huh?” She smiled tremulously. “I think that can be arranged.” He pulled her up. The kiss he gave her was one of promise, commitment and love. Lily was touched to the depths of her heart and knew that she would never again doubt his love for her. Just then, Amy emerged from the kitchen, followed by two staffers bearing round, silver trays laden with different slices of cake. “Now eat up,” he whispered in her ear. “Before I tie you up in bed and fuck you until you beg me to stop.” Lily grinned, an all-too-familiar arousal swirling in her pussy. “Promise?” “Oh yeah. There’s a flogger with your name on it waiting upstairs.” Their lips met once more, sealing the promise of their future together.

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About the author Beverly Havlir writes her books surrounded by plush pink and white heart-shaped pillows and soft, sexy music playing in the background. She plots her stories dressed in sheer, silky lingerie while eating bonbons and sipping champagne. Now for a dash of reality… After running around doing totally unglamorous chores all day, Beverly writes at night when all is quiet and she is (at last!) alone. Exhaustion disappears as soon as she sits down in front of her computer, doing what she loves best: writing stories that bring women’s fantasies to life.

Beverly welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.

Also by Beverly Havlir The Abduction of Emma Bodyguard Irresistible Jed’s Revenge Pleasure Planet anthology Taming Alex

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