Overnight Sensation

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Overnight Sensation By Christy Gissendaner ADVANCED READER COPY: DISCLAIMER This Advance Reader Copy is the property of Christy Gissendaner. The Advance Reader Copy may not be sold, rented, loaned, or copied. This is an uncorrected copy and may differ slightly from the final published novel, which will be available from Triskelion Publishing in August 2005 This work is copyrighted as of 2005 by Christy Gissendaner

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Chapter One

Kerrington Manley sipped her diet soda and glanced longingly across the table to where her stick thin friend, Lisa, devoured a pineapple sundae. Kerri licked her lips, disappointed to only find a lingering trace of aspartame instead of the vanilla and whipped cream that she craved. She propped her elbows on the table and continued eyeing Lisa’s sundae. “The world is so unfair. I do nothing but guzzle diet drinks all day and I look like a hippo, while you eat everything in sight and could be the body-double for Calista Flockhart.” Lisa took a bite of gooey pineapple and chewed thoughtfully. “I have a fast metabolism.” Kerri sighed enviously. “What I wouldn’t give for one of those!” She slapped her thighs, wincing when they jiggled. Lisa, recognizing that her friend was putting herself down, put down her spoon and folded her arms on top of the table. “You are not a hippo.” Kerri glanced down at her size eighteen body and coughed pointedly. “Uh, yeah I am.” Lisa rolled her contact tinted blue eyes and reached for a napkin. She blotted her lips before speaking. “You are pleasantly plump.” It was an expression she had heard several times before, but it never failed to make Kerri shudder. “That is just a euphemism for horribly obese.” Lisa opened her mouth to speak, but she was interrupted when a cute, college aged guy stopped at their table and gawked. Lisa gave a practiced smile and tossed her long blonde hair over one shoulder. May I help you?” The guy began stuttering. “Are you…um that is.” He took a breath and gathered his nerve. “Miss February?” Kerri hid a smile behind one hand at the look that crossed Lisa’s face. As a centerfold for a popular porn magazine, Lisa was used to gathering attention wherever she went. “June, actually,” Lisa corrected. “Oh, yeah!” the guy said and slapped his forehead with one hand. “The spread in the barnyard. That’s right.” An earnest expression crossed his face. “I had your picture on my wall for months.” “That’s nice,” Lisa said and reached for the pen she kept with her at all times. “Would you like

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an autograph?” The guy looked disappointed. “Actually, I was wondering if I could take a picture with you.” Lisa glanced at Kerri, who merely shrugged. “Why not?” Lisa said and stood. “Do you have a camera?” “It’s on my phone,” the guy said and thrust it at Kerri with barely a word. “Be sure to get my good side.” “Does he have one?” Kerri mumbled under her breath to Lisa as she tried to figure out how to work the camera phone. “Sshh. He’s a fan,” Lisa whispered back. Her smile faded as the guy put his arm around her waist and pinched her ass. She rushed to hurry the picture along. “Okay. Smile!” Kerri took the picture and handed the phone to the lust-ridden guy. When he was gone, Lisa sank into her seat and sighed dramatically. “The pressures of being a number one pinup.” Kerri laughed and managed to steal a bite of Lisa’s melted sundae. “What? Life is not all roses being a porn star?” Lisa straightened and gave Kerri a stern look. “I don’t do porn.” She pointed a finger at Kerri. “And I thought you were on a diet.” So much for pleasantly plump. “I am always on a diet,” Kerri moaned. Lisa dragged a cherry through the whipped cream and popped it into her mouth. “Which one are you on now?” “Atkins, the Zone. You name it, I am on it.” She snuck another bite of sundae. “It’s pretty much a lettuce and water diet.” “That is not healthy,” Lisa lectured. “How many times do I have to tell you?” “If it makes me lose weight, then it is healthy enough for me,” Kerri fired back. Lisa tried her best to look understanding. “Have you tried seeing a dietician?” “No, and I am not going to.” Kerri abandoned the sundae and reached for her diet coke. “What can they tell me that I don’t already know? I have a stack of self-help books at home that nearly reaches my ceiling. They were all written by dieticians and not a single one has helped yet.” “Are you still going to aerobics?” Kerri cringed. She had hated being the only person in the class that wore a t-shirt and sweatpants rather than the cute workout clothes that all the skinny girls wore. “No, I quit.” They were interrupted again by the ringing of Lisa’s cell phone. Lisa answered and motioned to

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Kerri that she was going to have to take it. While Lisa argued with whoever it was on the other end, Kerri drained her diet coke and flagged down the waitress for another. As she did, a man sitting in the corner of the nearly deserted café caught her attention. He had on a scarf, which was odd since it was a moderately warm day. His thinning hair was perfectly styled and his clothes were obviously designer. Kerri sipped on her diet coke and casually observed him. He was reading what looked to be yesterday’s newspaper. Obviously an out-of-towner. He flipped the page and as if he sensed her eyes upon him, he glanced around. Kerri smiled in a friendly manner when his eyes met hers and tried to pretend like she hadn’t been staring at him. He smiled back easily and his attention returned to the newspaper. “Ok, bye!” Lisa ended her phone call and reached for her purse. “I hate to cut it short, but my agent needs me in New York like right this minute.” Kerri’s face fell in disappointment. “Oh no. Really?” Lisa pulled out a couple of bills and tossed them on the table. “Yes. There’s a flight leaving at three. If I hurry, I can make it.” Kerri reached into her own purse for money to pay her tab. “Do you need me to drive you to the airport?” Lisa pushed a wispy strand of hair out of her face. “No. I’ll catch a cab so you don’t have to miss work.” She rounded the table and blew several air kisses at Kerri. “Have fun and for God’s sake, eat something.” “I will,” Kerri answered, shifting in her seat so that she could watch Lisa’s departure. “Call me when you get to New York.” “Alright,” Lisa said and waved as she rushed through the café’s doors to hail a cab. A man stopped to open the door for Lisa and Kerri watched with envy. What it must be like to be thin and beautiful. She wouldn’t know, of course. She had been chunky all her life. “Will you be needing anything else?” Kerri glanced up at the waitress who was looking at her like she expected her to order an entire pie.. “No, thanks. I’m finished.” She handed over the money for the tab and glanced at her watch. It was time to get back to work. She drank too much soda, so first she needed to head to the bathroom. As she came out, she was surprised to see the man with the scarf propped against the opposite wall. She took a step back and mumbled hello.

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“Hello,” he said in a delightfully British voice. “Are you by any chance a model?” “Excuse me?” Kerri said. “Did you just ask if I was model?” “Yes,” he answered. He took a step closer and seemed to be examining her. “You have a very intriguing face. ” “Thank you, I think,” Kerri said slowly. She had been called pretty often enough, but no one had ever said that her face was intriguing. This was just way too weird. She frowned and gave the man a questioning look. “Wait a minute. Is there a hidden camera somewhere?” He looked puzzled. “No, I do not believe so. Why?” Kerri put her hands on her ample hips and lifted an eyebrow. “Why would you, a complete stranger, come up to me and say that I have an intriguing face?” The man laughed and reached into his pocket. She instinctively ducked. Who knew, it could be a pistol. He saw her reaction and he rushed to explain. “I want to give you one of my cards.” He did so with a flourish. “I am Armand D’Sandro, owner of D’Sandro Clothing. I would like for you to be one of my models.” Kerri’s mouth dropped open. “Armand D’Sandro? You have got to be kidding me!” D’Sandro’s was one of her favorite clothing stores, even if it was a tad expensive. The chain marketed toward plus size women and offered them a fashionable alternative to the unfashionable clothing usually made for larger sizes. “No, I am not kidding,” Armand said. “Are you interested?” Kerri glanced down at the card and ran her finger across the silver embossed writing. If this was all a dream, she did not want to wake up. “If I was to model for you, what is in it for me?” Armand began to count off on his fingers. “You will have to move to New York, but we furnish an apartment for you, of course. To begin with, you will paid by the hour, but in a few months you will become salaried.” He then named a figure, which caused Kerri’s jaw to drop even further. “And,” he said with a winning smile. “All the free clothes you could want.” Kerri bit her lip with indecision. It all seemed too good to be true. “When do you need an answer?” Armand tapped a finger against his lips thoughtfully. “Today, unfortunately. My flight leaves in just a couple of hours. Probably the same one as your friend that left in such a rush.” Kerri thought of all that she had now. A minimum wage job at the local mall. A rundown apartment in the bad side of town and a nonexistent social life. Why was she even wasting time thinking about this? She gave Armand a wide smile. “Okay, I’ll do it.”

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***** “You are shitting me!” Kerri gripped the phone against her ear and smiled at the sound of surprise in Lisa’s voice. “No, I’m not.” Lisa whistled loudly. “D’Sandro’s is becoming one of the largest clothing chains in the nation. You will be famous.” “No, I won’t. How many famous plus sized models are there, after all?” “Emme,” Lisa answered. “Oh, and Liv Tyler’s sister. I forget her name though.” “Exactly,” Kerri said. “Plus sized models are totally forgettable. I will be lucky if anybody besides you even notices me.” “With your face,” Lisa predicted. “You will go far.” Kerri could not help glancing across the room at her reflection in the wall mirror. Her lips were well formed and naturally tinged a deep red. Her eyes were a pretty shade of violet. Other than dimples and a smattering of freckles, she did not see what made her so special. If men drooled over her, it was usually because of her large breasts, not her pretty face. “I will be lucky if I make it into one magazine,” Kerri predicted ominously. Lisa huffed. “Girl, just wait and see. You will be a cover model in no time.” After debating the unlikely chance of her becoming famous for several minutes, Kerri hung up and began packing for her trip to New York. She had already turned in her notice at the mall and weaseled her way out of the lease for her apartment. Besides finding a home for her fern, she was set to go. She wondered if there was anybody in Atlanta that she should inform of her leaving. Sadly, there was no one. She had made few friends besides her co-workers. Maybe her hairdresser would miss her? Probably not, Kerri decided, since she only came in a few times a year. She finished packing and stood surveying the almost empty room. The heavy boxes were being shipped by U-haul, while her luggage would fly with her. Her car was on its last legs, so she had dropped it off at a used car lot and cashed in on a little extra spending money. There was not much else that needed to be done. She put a hand against her back and massaged the ache that had settled there from lifting so many heavy objects. With a groan, she lowered herself onto the couch and let out a sigh. Relief, she thought to herself and reached for the remote. She flipped the television to the entertainment channel and propped a pillow behind her head. She soon became engrossed in the messy divorce of a popular

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sitcom star. Celebrity gossip had become her latest guilty pleasure. “Too bad,” Kerri tsked for the poor actor who would probably soon be losing a huge chunk of his millions. When the segment ended, she was about to change the channel when her attention was caught by a picture that flashed across the screen. Her finger paused over the remote and she gazed at the television in rapture. “Griffin Davies, top male model, was in Cancun this weekend to host the annual search for the next superstar,” the announcer droned in a nasally voice. “Surprisingly, his longtime girlfriend was absent. Is there trouble in paradise? Stay tuned.” During the commercial, Kerri raced to the fridge for some celery sticks and chewed them anxiously. She was dying to know if Griffin had broken up with the big-breasted whore of a soap opera star he had been dating. When the program came back on, she drooled over the shirtless pics of Griffin romping on the beaches of Mexico sans girlfriend. When the announcer confirmed that the two were no longer an item, Kerri could have kissed the television. For years, Griffin Davies had been her celebrity crush and she was glad that he had finally wised up and realized what a slut he had been dating. Her phone began ringing and she reached for it without tearing her eyes away from the screen. “Hello?” “Did you hear?” Lisa said without preamble. “Yes,” Kerri answered. “Isn’t it wonderful?” “Now that he is free, you two can hook up,” Lisa teased. “You know models only date other models. ” Kerri rolled her eyes, even though she knew Lisa couldn’t see the gesture. “Yeah, right. The possibility of that happening is probably one in three billion.” “Why three billion?” Lisa asked. “I don’t know. Isn’t that how many people live in New York?” “Who knows? Stranger things have happened.” “Not that strange,” Kerri said and took an emphatic bite out of her celery. ***** The next week, Kerri sat waiting wide eyed in the area outside Armand’s office. He had arranged for a driver to pick her up at the airport and then deliver her straight to the offices of D’Sandro Enterprises. She had not had time to change and she was consciously aware of how out of place she looked. Her wavy brown hair was in a messy ponytail and her Braves jersey had seen better days. Her

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ratty tennis shoes and ripped jeans did not proclaim her to be one of D’Sandro’s newest models judging from the look of distaste on the face of Armand’s receptionist. “He will be with you in just a moment,” the snotty receptionist said and Kerri gave a short nod. She could be snotty too, she thought with a lift of her chin. Her gaze wandered over the framed portrait of the D’Sandro models. Some looked vaguely familiar, but she could not recall any names. They were of varying ages and sizes and Kerri was relieved to see that she would not be the largest person modeling for D’Sandro. “Kerri, how good to see you again! Come in.” She glanced up at the sound of Armand’s voice and smiled. As she passed by the receptionist, she could not resist giving her a small smirk. The rude woman turned her nose up and pretended to be engrossed in studying her manicure. Armand took his seat behind a massive mahogany desk and waved toward the chair in front. “Please, have a seat.” He waited for her to do as he requested before inquiring, “How was your flight?” “A little bumpy. We hit some turbulence on the way up.” “That’s too bad. I hate to fly myself. I prefer to drive, but in this business it is hard to do that.” He picked up a folder and slid it across the table to her. “We have to handle a couple business items first. Inside, you will find some important information about the company. There are also forms we need you to fill out for tax purposes, insurance, et cetera.” She nodded and flipped through the thick packet of forms. When she was done, she handed the folder back to him and waited expectantly. Armand leaned back in his chair and laced his fingers together. “I have been giving this a lot of thought and I think I am going to feature you in our Look of Love campaign.” “Look of love?” Kerri asked. Armand went on to explain. “We have teamed up with a male clothing company to feature a new line of clothing. We are marketing it especially for lovers. Coordinating shirts and pants, that sort of thing.” He placed his hands on the table and tapped lightly. “We will be shooting in Vegas, so it should be an interesting first shoot for you.” “It sounds wonderful,” Kerri answered honestly. “But which clothing line are you working with?” Armand spoke as if it were no big deal. “Covington and Company.” Kerri’s eyes widened. “Wow!” Covington and Company was the biggest clothing line for men in the world. All of their models

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were movie star handsome and she had seen no less than half a dozen billboards covered with their brooding faces on the way in from the airport. It was also the company that first showcased Griffin Davies in his tighty whities. She tried to look unimpressed by being chosen to launch a new line, but failed miserably. “When do we start?” “Monday,” Armand answered. Kerri was taken aback. Today was Friday, so she would only spend one weekend in New York before leaving for the shoot. Armand explained a few more particulars to her before taking her on a short tour of the building. As they visited the many different departments, she noticed the odd looks that her co-workers were giving her. They probably wondered what Armand was doing escorting a virtual nobody when he obviously had more important things to do. Late in the afternoon, she finally made it to her new apartment. Armand had set it up so that her roommate would be Jasmine Oliver, another newcomer to the D’Sandro modeling team. As she stood outside the high rise gazing up at the place that was to be her home, Kerri could not hold in a wistful sigh. It all seemed so different from her mediocre life back in Georgia. The inside of the building was even more impressive than the outside. Everywhere she looked, gleaming marble and tile stared back at her. The bank of elevators was manned by an attendant who knew the floor of her apartment without even asking. Armand had given her a key to her new home, but she hesitated to enter without first knocking. She heard the rustle of clothing and a voice calling that it would be just a moment. Seconds later, the door was thrown open and Kerri was enfolded in the pleasant aroma of cinnamon. A stunning redhead tilted her head to one side, then gave her a broad grin. “You must be Kerrington.” Kerri released her grip on her wheeled suitcase and stuck out her hand. “Yes, but please call me Kerri. I am very pleased to meet you.” Jasmine glanced at her hand apologetically. “I’m sorry. I would shake your hand, but I just painted my nails.” She held up her fingers so that Kerri could see the bright pink polish. “Oh, I understand,” Kerri said and stood there awkwardly. Realizing that Kerri was still in the hall, Jasmine jumped to the side. “I’m so sorry. How rude of me to keep you standing out there. Please come in.” Kerri lugged in her suitcase and surveyed her new apartment. Framed prints of Jasmine covered one wall and the décor seemed to be animal print. It was not quite what Kerri was used to, but it had a

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very homey feel to it. “You must be tired after your flight,” Jasmine said. “Just a little,” Kerri admitted. Jasmine reached for her suitcase and began wheeling it down a short hallway. “I saved the largest room for you. It faces east and I hate waking up with the sun in my eyes. I hope you don’t mind.” “No, it’s fine.” Jasmine deposited Kerri’s luggage in the empty bedroom and turned to her with a smile. “I will leave you to get settled in, but be quick. We are leaving in two hours.” “Where are we going?” Jasmine winked at her mischievously. “Bar hopping, of course.”

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Chapter Two

Kerri was soon to learn that Jasmine was a whirlwind of energy. She talked at least a mile a minute with hardly a breath in between. Although she got worn out just watching Jasmine pace from one side of the room to the other, Kerri was already beginning to like her new roommate. After showering and taking a short nap, Kerri camped out on Jasmine’s bed as her roommate tried to decide on an outfit. Jasmine turned around and held up a dress. “What do you think? Too flashy?” Kerri eyed the red sheath that Jasmine was holding with a critical eye. “Isn’t it a little dressy for a nightclub?” Jasmine shook her head. “You obviously have never been to the Caliente Club.” The name sounded vaguely familiar to Kerri. She thought about it for a minute. “Isn’t that the club that all the celebrities go to?” “I guess so.” Jasmine shrugged as if the matter was of no importance. “You want me to go to there?” Kerri highly doubted she was the sort of person to go to such a famous club. Jasmine held the dress up against her body and gazed at her reflection in the mirror. “Yes.” “I can’t go to the Caliente Club,” Kerri stated miserably. “Why not?” Jasmine slipped off her robe and slithered her nude body into the clingy red sheath. “Everyone goes there. It is the place to be if you are anybody in New York.” “Exactly,” Kerri said and lifted an eyebrow. “That’s why I can’t go. I’m nobody.” Jasmine smoothed the dress over her hips and shot Kerri a quick glance. “Honey, you are the newest model for D’Sandro. You are somebody.” “But I don’t have anything to wear,” Kerri argued. She’d packed her entire wardrobe, but the fanciest outfit she owned was a sundress. She didn’t see herself arriving at the Caliente Club in the pink polka dotted dress she normally wore the rare occasions she attended church. “Stand up.” Jasmine ordered. Kerri slid to the edge of the bed. “Why?” “Just do it.”

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Kerri did as she asked, while Jasmine’s eyes roamed over her. “We are about the same size.” She dove back into her closet and pulled out a gorgeous shimmery black dress. “Try this on...” Kerri took the dress and marveled over the exquisite material. She wanted to refuse, but she was curious to see how the dress looked on her. She put it on over her simple black bra and panties and turned toward Jasmine expectantly. “How does it look?” “Simply marvelous,” Jasmine said in a fake southern accent. “Really?” Kerri walked over to the mirror and eyed her reflection. The cut of the dress complimented her relatively small waist and round hips, while clinging to her breasts. It was cut seductively low in front. She couldn’t resist tugging it up to cover her cleavage. “My boobs are hanging out.” Jasmine noticed Kerri’s action and she laughed throatily. “Honey, if you’ve got it flaunt it. That’s my motto.” Jasmine adjusted her own cleavage and slipped on a pair of ridiculously high heels. She pushed back the strands of her short red bob and clipped on a pair of dangly silver earrings. “Did you bring any jewelry with you?” Kerri laughed. “I don’t even own any jewelry.” Jasmine’s jaw dropped. “Honey, where did you come from?” She motioned to the clutter of jewelry on top of her dresser. “You can borrow anything that catches your fancy.” Kerri opted for simple black heels and a silver choker. Once they’d done their make-up and finished dressing, she had to admit that she looked good. Probably the best she’d ever looked in her whole life. Soon she found herself in the back of the cab heading for the trendy area of Manhattan where the Caliente Club was located. Jasmine flirted with the cab driver even though he hardly spoke a word of understandable English. “Do you have a boyfriend back home?” Kerri tore her eyes away from the passing scenery. “No.” Jasmine smiled. “Excellent. We can find you one tonight.” “I hardly think…” Kerri began, only to be cut off by Jasmine. “Only the hottest guys are allowed into the Caliente Club. You can have your pick.” She leaned over like she was confessing a secret. “The guys love to hit on models. It’s a pride thing.” Kerri didn’t think she would enjoy being hit on just because of her profession, but it might be fun to have guys come up to her instead of the other way around. When they arrived at the club, a long line of people wrapped all the way around the block. Kerri

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looked at the line with a sinking heart. “Oh no!” “What is it?” Jasmine asked as she craned her head to see what had attracted Kerri’s attention. Kerri pointed toward the crowd. “It is obviously packed. We will never get in.” Jasmine opened the door to the cab, paid the driver, and urged Kerri to climb out. “Don’t worry. I am friends with the bouncer.” Kerri followed meekly as Jasmine sailed past the people standing impatiently in line. There were a few grumbles as Jasmine shoved her way to the front of the line and tapped a huge black man on his shoulder. He turned with a forbidding frown, but that frown turned into a smile when he saw Jasmine. “There’s my favorite girl,” the bouncer said and enfolded her in a bear hug. “I was wondering when you would get here.” “You know I would never let you down.” Jasmine kissed him on the cheek and stepped back. “Juan, I would like you to meet my new roommate, Kerrington.” Juan gave her a wide smile. “Hello.” Kerri mumbled a quick greeting. Music poured through the open doors and even though she was nervous, anticipation began to build. Her first night in New York and she was about to enter one of the hottest clubs in the world. “I haven’t seen you before,” Juan remarked. Jasmine put her hand over Kerri’s shoulder and gave her a light squeeze. “She’s fresh from the country.” “Is that so?” Juan asked. Kerri shook her head. “I would hardly call Atlanta the country.” Juan gave her a knowing look. “Jas is showing you the town, huh?” He nudged Jasmine teasingly. “You better watch out for this one. She’s a man-eater.” Jasmine rolled her eyes and punched the huge bouncer in his arm. “Cut it out. I am not that bad...” “If you say so,” Juan answered and gave a wink to Kerri. “You two have fun tonight,” he said as he opened the velvet rope and allowed them to slip inside. There were a few more grumbles from the crowd, but Juan hushed them with a fierce look. “Thanks, Juan,” Jasmine said and blew him a kiss. Inside the club, the music was so loud that the walls were vibrating. Kerri gazed around her in wonder. There were half naked girls dancing in cages in the center of the room. Gorgeous people stood in clusters sipping martinis and elbowed each other for more room on the crowded dance floor. It was

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nothing like she had ever seen before. Even the clubs in Buckhead could not compare to the Caliente Club. “What do you think?” Jasmine had to shout to be heard over the music. Kerri gave her a wide-eyed look. “It’s amazing.” Jasmine nodded and grabbed hold of Kerri’s hand. She led the way to a curtained alcove situated at the top of the second floor. A bouncer was standing guard and when he saw Jasmine, he drew back the curtain and motioned them inside. “Where are we going?” Kerri asked. Her voice trailed off when she realized that they had just entered the V.I.P. section. Several well-known celebrities were hanging out on the red couches, while the members of a former boy band enjoyed lap dances and sipped expensive champagne. Kerri averted her eyes from the sight of a couple making out on one of the couches and gave Jasmine a frantic look. “What are we doing in here?” “Relax,” Jasmine said and took hold of her hand again. “You have just entered the inner circle. Just act cool and mingle.” “You expect me to mingle with celebrities?” Kerri’s voice raised a notch. “They are regular people too,” Jasmine answered as she grabbed two glasses of champagne from a passing tray and handed one to Kerri. “Cheers.” Kerri clinked her glass against Jasmine’s and drained her glass in one swallow. She had always had a high tolerance for alcohol, so it would take several glasses until she got a buzz. And, if she had to deal with these people, a buzz was definitely what she wanted. She was working on her second glass of champagne when someone came up between her and Jasmine and slid his arms across their shoulders. “What are two such lovely ladies like you doing all alone?” Kerri rolled her eyes at the lame pickup line and shot Jasmine an amused look. Jasmine winked at her and turned to the minor actor with a practiced smile. “Waiting on you to come find us.” As the actor and Jasmine flirted, Kerri finished her drink and searched for a third. She sat down to drink it while Jasmine continued her conversation. She was finally beginning to feel the effects of the alcohol, so at first she imagined that it was all in her mind. Sitting up straighter, she blinked and stared across the room. She was not imagining it. Griffin Davies was sitting less than fifteen feet from her. Her spine tingled with awareness and her hands and feet felt curiously numb. Griffin was surrounded by gorgeous women, but he seemed to be engrossed in the drink he held

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in one hand. Kerri watched as he drained his glass and motioned for another. When his eyes lifted and met hers, she was too surprised to do anything other than continue staring at him. He smiled at her briefly before glancing away. Griffin Davies had smiled at her! Kerri found it hard to keep still. She wanted to shout it from the rooftops, but she doubted anyone would believe her. She stopped staring at him long enough to get rid of her third glass. When she looked back, he was gone. She could not prevent a sigh of disappointment. “Another champagne?” a voice asked at her side. “Thank you,” she mumbled and took it without glancing at the waiter. She took a tiny sip and the bubbles tickled her nose. “Achoo,” she sneezed and rubbed her nose gently. “Bless you,” the guy said. She glanced up then to give the waiter a smile of thanks only to realize that it was Griffin. The smile froze on her face. Griffin’s blue eyes twinkled with amusement. “Most people say thank you. ” “Thank you,” she said in a strained voice. Griffin Davies was talking to her! It was a wonder she didn’t pee all over herself in excitement. The dozens of magazines she owned with his face on the cover didn’t even begin to do him justice. He was even more attractive in person. He motioned to the couch. “Do you mind if I sit down?” “No, of course not,” she said and slid over to make room for him. It put her perilously close to the couple making out, but she pretended they weren’t there. Griffin sat and stretched his long legs out in front of him. He was dressed casually in jeans and a pullover, but she had never seen a more attractive sight. Except for maybe the photo spread of him in nothing but his underwear. At the thought, her face flamed with color. Griffin did not seem to notice the effect he had on her. He put an arm on the back of the couch, which put them in close contact. Kerri caught a whiff of expensive cologne and her mouth watered at the smell. “I have never seen you here before,” Griffin remarked although his gaze was slowly traveling the room. Kerri licked her lips and tried to speak in a normal voice. “Well, this is my first visit to New York. ” He nodded. “I saw you come in with Jasmine. Is she a friend of yours?” “My roommate. We just met today.”

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He lifted his hand and waved at someone across the room. Kerri glanced up to see who it was he was waving at, but she couldn’t tell. The room was getting more crowded and she couldn’t even tell where Jasmine had gotten off to. “Do you dance?” Kerri’s gaze shot back to Griffin. “What?” His lips curled up at the corners. “Do you dance?” “A little,” Kerri admitted. She was no J. Lo, but she could hold her own on the dance floor. Griffin stood and reached for her hand. “Then what are we waiting for?” She stared at his hand as if it were a snake. “You want to dance with me?” “Why else would I ask you?” Kerri put her hand in his and a thrill shot along her palm at the feel of his warm hand against hers.. He led her out of the V.I.P. room and down the stairs to the dance floor. Heads turned as they passed and Kerri was aware of the envious looks she was receiving by the girls in the club. They were probably wondering what a chubby girl like her was doing dancing with one of the sexiest men on earth. On the dance floor, Griffin wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close. She hoped he couldn’t feel the roll of flab on her back. He didn’t seem to mind as he hummed under his breath and began moving to the music. It was a slow, grinding song, which suited Kerri just fine. It gave her an excuse to rub her body against Griffin’s in an intimate manner. If she died tonight, she would die happy. Griffin’s rock hard body felt like heaven. She even forgot to worry about her too large hips as she pressed herself against him and dipped in a seductive manner. She risked a look at his face and saw that he was staring down at her approvingly. “I like a girl who is not afraid to let loose on the dance floor.” “It’s easy when you have a good partner,” she responded breezily. She was so happy she hadn’t tripped over her words that she could jump for joy. Griffin smiled and bent down to press his face against her neck. Her body stiffened at the feel of his hot breath on her skin. Oh my, she thought to herself as her nipples puckered and her knees went weak. A wave of intense desire spread through her body and pooled in the center of her belly. His hand, which had been on the small of her back, slipped a tad lower then he pressed her tightly against him. Her hands were caught against his chest, so she slid them up and wound them around his neck. It was a very intimate embrace, so she couldn’t help but notice the insistent pressure of his arousal against her hip. Griffin Davies had a hard-on and she was the reason for it.

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Grinning like a Cheshire cat, she reveled in her new sex goddess status. It was not every day that she had a man like Griffin Davies turned on by her. Just when she thought things couldn’t get any better, she felt the press of another body against her back. She tilted her head and was surprised to see another male model plastered against her. Okay, so things could get a little better. Griffin smiled and called out a greeting to the newcomer. With one guy behind her, Kerri was pushed even harder against Griffin. His hand finally slipped lower and cupped her ass. She took that as a sign to become bolder and let her fingertips trail along the side of his neck. He arched into her touch and she gently raked her nails across his shoulder. Her hair was lifted away from her neck and the guy behind her pressed a kiss on her nape. She shivered at the sensation and met Griffin’s gaze. He did not seem to enjoy sharing, if the dark look in his eyes was anything to go by. Thankfully, their third partner found another girl to dance with and she and Griffin were left to finish their dance alone. She was disappointed that Griffin did not try any further moves on her. Her nipples were still hard and aching and she was already damp with need. He had only to say the word and she would follow him. After the dance ended, Griffin took her hand and led her back to the V.I.P. room. She expected him to leave, but he surprised her when he ordered two shots of tequila and returned to the place they had been sitting at earlier. There was not room for both of them, so Griffin sat down and motioned for her to sit on his lap. She lifted an eyebrow. “I will break your legs.” He shook his head. “No, you won’t. Sit.” She did as he asked, but she was careful to keep most of her weight balanced on the foot she kept on the floor. The waiter returned with their shots and handed her a saltshaker. She took it and gave Griffin a bewildered look. “What do I do with this?” He took her wrist and ran his tongue across it before sprinkling salt there. “You lick the salt. Take the shot and then suck on the lime.” She looked around. “Where is the lime?” He grinned wickedly and stuck a lime wedge in his mouth. She smiled in anticipation. This could definitely be interesting. Taking a steadying breath, she licked the salt and downed the tequila. The liquor burned a path down her throat and she almost forgot the lime, but Griffin grabbed the back of her head and brought her down to the level of his mouth.

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She pretended to fumble for the lime just so she could feel the intoxicating sensation of his stubble against her cheek. She finally captured the lime and sucked it. “How was that?” she asked once she had finished sucking the juice out of the sour fruit. “Perfect,” he said. He started to sprinkle salt on his own wrist, but Kerri stopped him before he could. The alcohol was making her bold. She lifted his hand and licked his wrist in the same manner he had done hers. She sprinkled salt and teasingly put a wedge of lime in her own mouth. Griffin laughed softly as he licked the salt and drained the tequila. He again reached for the back of her head and brought her face down to his. He easily captured the lime, but it fell to the floor as he opened his mouth and ran his tongue along the seam of her lips. Kerri almost came in her pants right then. deepen the kiss.

She let out a breathy moan and waited for him to

Instead, he continued teasing her with small flicks of his tongue against her mouth.

Finally, he tilted his head and pressed his lips against hers. Tired of his slow seduction, she opened her mouth and slipped her tongue between his lips. He responded with mounting passion. Pretty soon, they were making out hot and heavy on the couch. became one as their tongues slipped over each others. couldn’t get enough of Griffin’s kiss.

Their breaths mingled and

Her lips were swollen and tingling, but she

His hand slipped to her breast and he cupped her through the

material of her dress. Her nipple pressed into his palm and he thumbed it to an aching point. Griffin put his hands on her hips and turned her so that she straddled him. Her hips cupped his arousal and when she moved instinctively against him, he let out a harsh groan and tore his lips from hers. “We’ve got to stop before I embarrass myself.” Kerri couldn’t hide her disappointment.

As her face fell, he put a finger under her chin and

tipped her face to his. “Do you want to get out of here?” Kerri smiled and nodded without hesitation. “Sure.” They managed to locate Jasmine in the center of the crowd.

If she was surprised to see Kerri

leaving with Griffin, she didn’t show it. Instead, she wished them a good night and turned back to the actor she was still flirting with. As Griffin led the way to his car, Kerri pinched herself to see if she was dreaming. ***** “Would you like a drink?” Griffin ushered her into his apartment and flipped on an overhead light. Kerri blinked against the sudden brightness and shook her head. “No.” On the ride to his apartment, her hormones had time to cool. She was still one hundred percent

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sure that she wanted to have sex with Griffin, but she waited for him to make the first move. He pulled his shirt over his head and tossed it over the back of the couch. She greedily drank in the sight of his bronzed skin and lean muscles. He caught her looking at him and he gave her an apologetic look. “Sorry, but I always smell like smoke when I leave the club. It is a habit to start stripping as soon as I walk in.” “Go ahead,” Kerri said. “I don’t mind.” Not at all, she silently added. Griffin kicked off his shoes and padded in socked feet across the room. He opened the French door leading to his balcony and motioned for her to come join him. He had a lovely view of downtown Manhattan, but she couldn’t keep her gaze off him. Evening shadow was just darkening his lean cheeks and gave him a rugged look. His short dark hair was rumpled boyishly, but the twinkle in his eyes declared that he was all man.

He wrapped an

arm around her waist and pulled her in close. “I don’t normally do things like this.” “Like what?” Kerri asked innocently. He laughed at the wide eyed look she gave him. His hand slid across her hip. “Take girls home from the club.” “Oh.” She was too distracted by his touch to form a coherent response. He kissed the side of her neck and lightly nipped her. “But you seem different.” “Is that a compliment?” He moved his lips to hers and nodded. “It’s definitely a compliment.” They stood on the balcony kissing under the moonlight and Kerri had the fleeting thought that this one night stand might just be the most romantic moment of her life. Griffin’s hands wandered to the back of her dress and she felt the slide of the zipper against her heated skin.

The cool night air

caressed her breasts as he pushed the material to her hips. Realizing that she stood half naked in full view of anyone that happened to look out their window should have made her nervous. Instead it caused her insides to churn with excitement. She reached for the zipper of his jeans and fumbled to get them undone. boxer briefs.

As she had suspected, he wore

She bit her lip anxiously, wondering what sort of proportions would be revealed.

She

slipped her hands inside his underwear and cupped him. Oh my, she thought to herself as she felt the heavy weight in her palms. Griffin definitely had the equipment needed to perform the deed. When her hands cupped him, he let out a small hiss. “Maybe we should move this inside,” he suggested even as he pressed himself into her hands. She shook her head and her eyes gleamed as she met his gaze. “It would be a shame to waste

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such a beautiful night.” He looked a tad surprised by her idea, but he responded well enough. She shimmied out of her dress and lifted her chin as his gaze swept over her bra and panties.

Now she regretted not wearing

more seductive underwear, but then again she had not been expecting to get laid that night. Griffin kicked off his jeans and her gaze dropped to the obvious bulge in his briefs. He turned her so that she faced the railing and his hands moved to cup her ass.

Her head fell back against his

shoulder and her mouth opened on a wordless moan. She didn’t know where to put her hands, so she gripped the railing instead. His hands moved to the front of her panties and slipped inside.

She was already wet, so his

fingers easily found her center. Luckily, she had waxed earlier that week so she did not have to worry about an overgrown bikini area. Her eyes drifted upwards and she caught the flicker of a light in an apartment across the street. She instinctively stiffened and reached for his wrist. “Wait,” she ordered in a husky voice. He spoke into her ear, sending goose bumps across her skin. “What is it?” She lifted a shaky finger to the apartment. “Someone just walked by that window.” He leaned past her to look in the direction she pointed toward, but his hand remained in her panties. “They probably cannot even see us.” “But what if they can?” she asked even as she arched into his touch. “Then we will make them jealous.” “You are probably right about that,” she said. Her worry about being caught fled immediately. She widened her stance so that he could move deeper. He put a finger inside her and she bit back a moan. With his free hand, he unsnapped her bra and she pushed it off her arms and tossed it to the ground. He cupped her breast with one hand as his other continued stroking her. Her breath began to come in breathy moans and she knew she was close. When she came, her knees nearly went out from under her.

He wrapped an arm around her

waist to keep her steady. Before she could even recover, he slipped her underwear past her knees. She felt the prod of his arousal against her a moment before he thrust inside. She wrapped her hands tighter against the railing and held on as he began to move in rhythmic thrusts. Her breasts jiggled with the motion as he slid in and out in an easy manner. She wished she could see his face, but she didn’t want to ruin the moment by turning around. The hair on his legs tickled the back of her thighs as he pressed deeper. He gripped her hips and directed her own movements. He sped up and she could feel her inner muscles starting to clench. Just

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when she thought she could not take anymore, she climaxed and stars exploded before her eyes. He lasted throughout her orgasm, but as soon as she stopped quivering, he reached his own peak. She felt a gush of hot liquid inside her and said a quick prayer of thanks for remembering to take her pill that morning. It was not like her to have unprotected sex, but this was a once in a lifetime opportunity. The air around them sizzled as their heated bodies began to cool. Her hands dropped from the railing as he slipped out of her body. The time to face him had come, but she was suddenly nervous. Griffin saved her from embarrassment by acting first.

He put his hands on her shoulders and

gently turned her around. She caught a gleam of satisfaction in his eyes as he bent down and kissed her. All at once, she had no regrets.

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Chapter Three

That night with Griffin surpassed all of Kerri’s expectations. They finally made it to the bedroom, where he brought her to an orgasm time and again. Just when she thought she couldn’t do it again, Griffin showed her that she was truly a slave to passion. All too soon morning came and it was time to face the music. When she woke up, she was curled against Griffin’s warm chest.

He was still asleep, so she

took the opportunity to gaze upon him. His short hair was mussed and stuck out in all directions, but she thought he had never looked sexier.

His dark eyelashes were fanned against his cheeks and she

found herself envying their lush length. It was horribly unfair that men could look so handsome in the morning, while their female counterparts looked like something that cat dragged in. Kerri wanted to get to a mirror before Griffin woke up, so she eased out from under the arm he had thrown over her and put her legs on the floor.

She crept off the bed and across the room to the

bathroom. On the way, she grabbed a robe that was hanging on the back of a chair and belted the soft terrycloth around her still nude body. She took one look in the bathroom mirror and almost fainted. Her shoulder length hair frizzed out in all directions and she had black marks under her eyes from her mascara. Major work was going to have to be done before she faced Griffin. She grabbed a washcloth and began scrubbing at her face.

Once the makeup was gone, she

borrowed Griffin’s brush and tried to tame her curly locks into some semblance of order. She managed to get the tangles out, but it was still frizzy so she braided it loosely and secured it with the hair holder she always carried in her purse. Now her hair was done, but what to do with her face? She did not carry makeup with her, unless you counted Chap Stick as makeup. She took another look in the mirror. With a clean face, she looked like she was fifteen instead of her actual twenty-four, but it would have to do. She took a swig of Griffin’s mouthwash and bent over the sink to spit it out.

She wiped her

mouth and straightened. She let out a small squeak when she caught Griffin’s reflection in the mirror behind her. “Good morning,” was the first thing that popped into her mind.

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He yawned and reached past her for his toothbrush. He put paste on the brush and stuck it in his mouth. His words were garbled as he spoke. “Mornin’. You’re up early.” She moved to the side so that he could reach the sink. He was still naked, so she admired the smooth curve of his ass before speaking, “I hope I didn’t wake you.” He spit out the toothpaste and shook his head. “No. I have a meeting this morning.” “Oh,” Kerri mumbled. Well, this is awkward, she thought to herself. He was obviously hinting that she should get the hell out. She gripped the edges of the robe together and motioned toward the door. “Well, I should get going.” She stepped past him, but his arm shot out and trapped her against the door. His minty flavored breath was all the warning she got before he took her lips in another mind-numbing kiss.

His hands

undid the belt to the robe and he pressed his naked skin against hers. He was already hard and her body responded by flooding hers with moisture. He did not waste time with foreplay. He lifted her leg over his hip and slid inside. Kerri had never had a quickie before, but it was definitely turning out to be an interesting experience. Griffin bent his knees and lifted her against the wall. She held onto his shoulders and braced herself with one foot against the floor.

He thrust and she shivered so intensely that she had to bite her bottom lip to keep

from crying out. He lifted his hand and gently touched her lips. “Don’t. I want to hear you when you come. ” “Oh God,” Kerri moaned.

“Did you take lessons or does being sexy just come naturally to

you?” He smiled and purposefully slowed his movements. “Naturally, I suppose.” His teasing brought to life a part of Kerri that she did not know existed. Never had she been the dominant partner in a sexual relationship. She was usually content to let the guy show her what to do, but this time she wanted to please Griffin as much as he pleased her. She lowered her leg and put a hand against his hip. He looked confused as she reached down and gently pulled him out of her body. “What are you doing?” “Ssh,” she said and put her hand against his mouth. She reversed their positions, so that he was the one against the wall. As he caught on, his dark eyes gleamed with reawakened passion. She slid a hand down his chest and then lower. She cupped him with one hand and began stroking. She licked her lips in anticipation before her mouth followed the same path her hand had just taken. Griffin’s hips jerked away from the wall when her warm mouth engulfed him. detested giving blowjobs, but with Griffin anything was pleasurable.

Normally she

She could taste herself on him,

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which roused her own passion as she remembered how he had felt deep inside her. Griffin’s hands tangled in her hair, mussing the braid she had just constructed. He gripped the back of her head and she felt the tremor that wracked his body when she drew a long path across the length of his penis with her tongue. Satisfied that she had accomplished her mission, she climbed to her feet and slowly backed up against the opposite wall.

Her hands reached up to touch her own breasts and she massaged them

gently before crooking a finger at Griffin. “Come here.” He lifted an eyebrow at the command, but he did as she ordered. When he was close enough, she put a hand around the back of his head and brought his lips down to hers.

She guided him back

inside her, content with her brief show of dominance to let him finish what he had started. ***** It was nearly ten o’clock before Kerri left Griffin’s apartment. He’d offered to drive her home, but she did not want to make him late for his meeting.

Standing on the curb, she hailed a taxi and

climbed inside. She rolled down the window and stuck her head out to say goodbye to Griffin. In the morning light, he looked good enough to eat. “I had a nice time,” she said shyly. “Me too,” he answered. He propped his elbows on the window and bent down to talk. “We will have to do it again sometime.” She nodded. “Sure.” The taxi driver coughed impatiently and shot her an irritated look through his rearview mirror. “I better not hold him up any longer,” she said. “He can wait,” Griffin said and stuck his head in the window to give her a quick kiss. “See you later.” “Bye,” was all she could think of to say. “Bye.” Griffin took a step back and waved as the taxi pulled away from the curb. Kerri could not resist one last look at him as she drove away. A pleased smile crossed her face. Griffin wanted to see her again.

That smile faded as she recalled one pertinent fact.

He’d never once asked for her

name. Kerri put her head back against the seat and closed her eyes in embarrassment.

She had slept

with someone who didn’t even know her name! She obviously hadn’t meant much to him if he didn’t even care enough to learn her first name at least. Kerri, who’d never had an one night stand with someone she just met, felt a wave of shame. When she arrived at her apartment, it was empty. Jasmine was probably still with the guy she’d

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been making out with the night before. It was probably a good thing she had the apartment to herself. She didn’t feel up to talking to anyone just then. She threw herself face down on the bed still fully clothed. She slept for maybe an hour before she felt the mattress shift beneath her. “Morning, Sunshine,” Jasmine said cheerfully. Kerri moaned and turned onto her back. existed, ached.

Muscles in her body, that she didn’t even know

She cracked open one eye and squinted against the sun streaming into the unshaded

window. Jasmine’s green eyes were alight with mischief.

“And how was your night with Mr. Griffin

“Sex on a Platter” Davies?” Kerri wanted to remain nonchalant, but a shaky laugh escaped her. “Okay...” Jasmine pouted prettily.

“Now don’t think you are gonna get away with just okay! I want

details and I want them now.” Kerri pushed on her elbows and blew at the lock of stray hair that fell in her face. “What do you want to know?” “Everything! How was it? Did you come?” Jasmine paused. “You did fuck him, didn’t you?” Kerri whistled. “Boy, did I...” “You slut,” Jasmine teased. “Only here for one day and you land the sexiest guy in New York. I’m so jealous.” Kerri rolled her eyes. “Yeah right. I saw you getting it on with that actor.” “Who? James? He’s just a friend.” “A friend who had his tongue halfway down your throat,” Kerri said pointedly. “Alright, a friend with benefits,” Jasmine clarified. “But James is a toad compared to Griffin. I know some girls that have been after him for months. How did you ever manage to gain his attention?” Kerri shrugged.

It was a question she had been asking herself all morning.

What made her

different? She had probably just looked easy. She gave Jasmine a brief overview of the night, leaving out the details she thought were too personal to share. Jasmine was green with envy. “Five times? You had sex with him five times?” Kerri bit her lip to hide a smile. “Yes.” “You lucky dog!” Jasmine said. “I am happy if James can get it up once in a night.” Kerri winced sympathetically. “At least you are going to see James again.” “Why do you say that? Are you not going to see Griffin again?”

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Kerri shook her head. “Nope.” Jasmine gave her a bewildered look. “Why not? Obviously you two hit it off.” Kerri lay back on the bed and fluffed her pillow. “It was just a one time thing. The boy did not even ask for my name, much less a number.” Jasmine looked stunned for an instant before bursting out in laughter. “Oh, you poor girl!” Kerri covered her face in embarrassment. “I know. I am such a ho—” “No, you’re not. You were just caught up in the moment.” Jasmine patted her arm reassuringly. “If you want, I can call him. I have his number.” “No!” Kerri bolted upright. “Don’t you dare.” Jasmine held up her hands in surrender. “Okay, I won’t.” “I am sorry,” Kerri said.. “But it would be just too embarrassing.. What would you say? ‘Hello, Griffin. I would like you to meet my roommate, Kerri, whom you just had sex with all night?’ No, thank you.” The phone began ringing and Jasmine leapt off the bed. “Maybe that’s Griffin now.” A small spurt of hope came to life inside Kerri. Please let it be him, she thought to herself as Jasmine answered the phone. Her hopes were raised even further when Jasmine said, “Yeah. She’s right here. You want to speak to her?” “It’s for you,” Jasmine said and held out the phone. Kerri gave her a questioning look, to which Jasmine shook her head. Kerri’s face fell as she took the phone. “Hello?” “Kerrington, it’s Armand. There has been a change of plans. We need you in Vegas tomorrow to ready you for the shoot. I have everything set up. A messenger will bring the itinerary for your trip.” Kerri listened to the rest of his instructions with only half an ear. overjoyed to start her first shoot.

Yesterday, she had been

Now the debacle with Griffin had ruined her entire perspective.

What was she thinking? She couldn’t be a model. She had no experience and was as green as they came when dealing with the mild celebrity status most D’Sandro models achieved. After she hung up the phone, Jasmine gave her a questioning look. “Well? What did he want?” “I leave for Vegas tomorrow instead of Monday.” “Vegas?” Jasmine echoed. Her face cleared. “Wait a minute. Are you saying that you have been given the Look of Love campaign?”

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“Yes,” Kerri answered. “Oh, you lucky girl,” Jasmine said with excitement. “The line is sure to be a hit.” Kerri began to chew on her thumbnail. “I’m a little nervous. This is my first shoot. What if I mess it all up?” “You won’t mess up,” Jasmine reassured her. “All you have to do is pose and try to look sexy.” Kerri may be naïve, but she knew that modeling required a bit more effort than that. “Sexy? I don’t think I would recognize sexy if it slapped me in the face.” Jasmine doubled over in laughter. “Darling, yes you would. Sexy was what you had between your legs last night.” “True enough,” Kerri murmured. “So maybe I do recognize sexy, but that sure as hell doesn’t mean I will ever be it.” ***** That night, Jasmine decided it would be a girls’ night out. By making a couple phone calls, she had it all lined up so that she and Kerri would meet several of the other models for drinks. Kerri was taken, almost against her will, to a male strip club. She sat at the table, surrounded by naked men, and wondered how her life had changed so drastically in just a week. “Take it off!” Rebecca, a tall blonde with a predilection for cowboys, yelled to the stripper prancing around stage in a Stetson and leather chaps. Kerri covered her face with one hand when the stripper headed for their table. “God, take me now!” “Sugar, if you’re sweet, I just might,” the stripper overheard her comment and teased. The other four girls at their table whistled and catcalled as the stripper gyrated his impressive physique in front of her. She tipped him and he moved on to Rebecca as she reached for her margarita and took a bracing gulp. “Are you enjoying yourself?” Jasmine leaned over to ask. Kerri tried to blow aside her embarrassment. “Of course. We’re surrounded by half naked men. Why wouldn’t I be?” “You don’t look happy,” Jasmine commented. “Are you still upset about Griffin?” “No.” Kerri shook her head quickly. “I had a fun time. I don’t regret anything about last night.” “Other than the whole name thing, huh?” “Well, there is that,” Kerri said. “Thanks for reminding me.” “I’m sorry.” Jasmine took her eyes away for a moment to whistle at a second stripper appearing

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on stage. She turned back to Kerri with a considering look. “You know what you need?” “What?” “A private lap dance.” Kerri reared back and shook her head fiercely. “No, absolutely not!” It was too late. Jasmine had already motioned for the proprietor of the club. The man came over and bent down to hear Jasmine’s request. He nodded and crooked his finger at Kerri. “Come with me.” Kerri remained glued to her seat. “I can’t believe you did that, Jasmine. There is no way I’m going to the back room.” Jasmine stood and yanked on her arm. “Yes, you are. I’m going too.” “You can go alone, because I’m not coming.” Jasmine gave another yank, but she only succeeded in pulling Kerri’s chair a couple of inches. “Get off your ass and come with me. You need this. It will cheer you up.” “I’m cheered up enough,” Kerri continued arguing. It took all four girls to finally persuade Kerri to go the backroom. She walked in with her head down and tried not to look any of the strippers in the face. “Which one do you prefer?” The proprietor asked. Kerri glanced up and picked the first one her eyes landed on. He was a stocky blonde with bulging biceps and as he walked toward her she felt her face turned bright red. Dear Lord, what had she gotten herself into? She’d heard that private lap dances could get a little risqué. She turned to Jasmine, but she’d already picked her man and was enjoying her own dance. Kerri was led to a chair, where the blonde began to pump his not-so-tiny package in her face. She sat there, her legs primly crossed at the ankles, and looked anywhere but at his crotch. “What’s your name, sweetheart?” The stripper asked as he turned and gave her a view of his ass, which was left bare in his g-string. “Kerri,” she said and admitted to herself that he did have a nice ass. “I’m Stone,” he said and turned back to do a little hip wriggling. The music was pumping as he danced in time to the beat. His hands slid up her thighs and he moved her legs apart. He stepped between them and continued dancing. “Is this your first visit?” “Um,” Kerri coughed to clear her suddenly dry throat. “Yes, it is.” He winked at her. “I could tell. You have that wide-eyed, virgin look.” Kerri was still embarrassed beyond belief, but he seemed like a nice enough guy so she relaxed a little. “I’m definitely not a virgin.”

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He winked at her and teasingly played with the top of his g-string. “Would you like me to take this off?” Kerri’s gaze involuntarily dropped to the bulge in his underwear. Judging from the size of the bulge, it would probably be an impressive sight. “Do you normally?” “It depends,” Stone answered. “On what?” Kerri waited for him to elaborate. “On how much your friend paid.” Kerri glanced at Jasmine, who gave her a big thumbs up sign. She groaned to herself. Kerri had not known Jasmine for long, but judging from the escapades she’d seen so far, Kerri was about to be treated to the full stripper experience. Stone’s hands moved lower, taking his g-string with them. She tried not to look, but her curiosity won out. Taking a deep breath, her eyes dropped to Stone’s crotch. She’d guessed right. He was definitely an impressive sight. When she returned to the table, the D’Sandro models stood and gave her a round of noisy applause. Kerri, still in a daze from all she’d seen in the back room, gave them a wry grin. “Was it worth it?” Rebecca asked. “Oh, he was definitely worth it,” Jasmine answered for her. “I snuck in a look and that boy was hung like a horse. It makes me hurt just thinking about it.” “Who’d you pick?” Greta, a model from England, asked. “Stone,” Kerri said as she picked up her drink. “Ah!” Rebecca nodded. “Excellent choice. You must have a thing for blondes.” “Not actually,” Jasmine began. “She has a thing for tall brunettes.” “Who doesn’t?” Hannah, the fifth member of their party, asked rhetorically. Jasmine ordered another round of drinks and casually surveyed the room. Suddenly, she bolted straight up in her chair. “I don’t fucking believe it!” “What is it?” Rebecca asked. They all pivoted in their chairs to see what had attracted Jasmine’s attention. Kerri’s eyes widened. “Is that…?” “Yes, it is,” Hannah answered. “What is he doing here?” Greta asked. Kerri had suspected that her new boss was homosexual, since he was so effeminate and worked in fashion, but his appearance in the club finally confirmed it. She sipped her margarita and looked back at the stage. “Probably the same as us. Here to ogle the goodies.”

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Armand spotted them and made his way to their table. They pulled up an extra chair for him and he sat between Hannah and Kerri. He tossed his coat across the back of the chair and gave Kerri an amused look. “I see you’ve met the girls.” “Yes,” Kerri answered. Making small talk with her boss in the middle of a strip club was certainly not an everyday occurrence. “That’s good.” He glanced around the table at the other models. “They’re good girls.” He paused and sent a meaningful look at Jasmine. “Well, maybe except for Jas.” “Ha! Ha! Very funny,” Jasmine said and reached past Kerri to lightly punch Armand’s arm. “You know you love me.” He laughed and turned his attention to the stage. “Has Stone performed yet?” Everyone’s eyes turned to Kerri. Hannah was the first to speak. “Not yet, although Kerri did have a private show in the backroom.” “Did she now?” Armand smiled at her. “Did you enjoy it?” She bit her lip, wondering how to answer. She didn’t want to sound like a perv, but hell they were in the middle of a strip club, so what did it matter? “Yes, I did.” Jasmine arched her eyebrow. “She was practically squirming in her chair she was so turned on.” “I was not!” Kerri exclaimed. “Yes, she was,” Jasmine said. Kerri opened her mouth to speak, but the words died before they crossed her lips as Stone appeared in the room and headed for their table. “Here comes lover boy now,” Jasmine said with a wicked cackle. Stone brushed her neck as he passed, but Kerri almost died when he bent down and planted a long, lingering kiss against Armand’s smiling mouth. He pulled back and gazed into Armand’s eyes. “I missed you.” Armand stroked his cheek with one hand. “What time do you get off?” “Now,” Stone answered. “Do you want to go to your place or mine?” The girls were suspiciously quiet as Armand stood and draped his arm over Stone’s broad shoulder. “Yours.” He turned back to them and waved. “I’ll see you girls later.” Armand and Stone strolled to the door, arm in arm. For several seconds, the girls just looked at each other then they burst out in hysterical laughter. Kerri waited for them to realize what she’d already done a moment before. The looks on their faces were priceless as they recalled that Kerri had just paid for a striptease from their boss’s lover.

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Kerri lifted her margarita in a mock salute. “Here’s to a definitely awkward moment.” Greta shook her head pityingly. “That is a waste of one fine man.” “I never thought I would say this,” Jasmine said. “But I suddenly find myself envious of Armand.” “Me, too,” Hannah answered. “How the hell did he catch someone like Stone?” “Money,” Rebecca answered promptly. “Maybe they’re in love,” Greta suggested. Greta drained her beer and plopped the bottle on the table. “How come all the good ones are taken or either gay?” “The law of averages,” Kerri mumbled. “Huh?” Greta leaned forward and reached for a pretzel. It crumbled to pieces as she bit into it.. “What do you mean?” Kerri studied the melting ice in her glass and shrugged. “I have no idea.” Jasmine jabbed her in the side with the elbow. “There’s one good man that’s not taken anymore. Right, Kerri?” Kerri’s gaze shot to Jasmine’s face. “Don’t even go there.” Hannah shook her head. “No, do tell.” Jasmine leaned back in her chair and leisurely crossed her arms over her chest. She traded a glance with each of the girls at the table before speaking. “Guess who Kerri made out with last night?” Kerri slowly let out the breath she’d been holding. She didn’t want her new friends to know she’d fucked Griffin Davies. Normally she would shot it from the rooftops, but knowing that he only used her dampened her joy. “Remind me to never tell you anything,” Kerri said, half in teasing. “Who?” Rebecca asked. “Please say it was Neil Diamond.” All the girls looked at her with identical expressions of disbelief. “What?” Rebecca said innocently. “I think he’s hot.” “Okay. Moving on.” Jasmine shuddered with revulsion. “So who did you make out with?” Hannah asked. Kerri pretended to be engrossed with the beads of moisture on her glass. She said his name quickly. “Griffin Davies.” Rebecca cupped a hand around her right ear. “Excuse me. I couldn’t hear. Did you just say Griffin Davies?” Kerri nodded. “Yes.”

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“Oh, you slut!” Greta exclaimed. “I’ve been eying him for months.” Jasmine nudged Kerri and winked. “I told you so.” “Are you going to see him again?” Hannah asked. “No,” Kerri answered. “It was just a one time thing.” Greta’s round face glowed with anticipation. “Was he a good kisser? Did you use tongue? Come on, let me live vicariously through you.” “Yes to both questions,” Kerri said. Jasmine pushed her hair behind her ear. “I saw a little of it in the V.I.P. room. It was one very hot kiss.” Kerri rolled her eyes. “I’m surprised you took your attention away from James long enough to notice.” Hannah groaned. “Jasmine, are you still with that loser?” Jasmine laughed. “For the moment.” Greta held up a hand. “So what happened after the kiss?” Kerri glanced to Jasmine for assistance. “Umm, I went home.” “Alone?” Greta asked. “Yes.” “Damn,” Greta sighed. “I want to know what he’s like in bed.” Hannah poked Greta in the arm. “Then you’re going to have to be the one to land him.” “Don’t think I haven’t tried,” Greta protested. “The damn boy is like a monk.” Kerri was taken aback. What the hell? A monk? He hadn’t seem so saintly the night before. She knew he’d said he didn’t normally take girls home,

but didn’t all guys say that? Kerri studied

Greta carefully. She was strikingly beautiful and had curves that would make any guy drool. Why would Griffin turn Greta down, but not her?

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Chapter Four

“Is this your first time to Vegas?” Kerri turned her wide-eyed gaze from the view of the Strip and nodded at the cab driver. “Am I that obvious?” The driver smiled at her through the rearview mirror. “I have picked several thousands tourists up from the airport. I’ve become something of an expert on the subject.” Kerri hurried to correct him. “Actually I am here on business.” “Oh? What sort of business?” He actually sounded interested. Kerri took that as a good sign. “I am a model. ” He cupped his hand around one ear. “Excuse me? Did you just say you were a model?” If he laughed, there was no way in hell he was getting a tip. “Yes, for D’Sandro.” “Oh,” the man said as he scratched his nose. There was a wealth of meaning in the one word. “Isn’t that the plus sized company?” “Yes,” Kerri turned back to look at the sights of Vegas. It shouldn’t embarrass her to be known as a fat model, but it did. “This is my first shoot.” “In that case, I wish you the best of luck.” “Thank you,.” The driver pulled in front of a hotel and delivered her to the front door. Before she could open the door, a valet attendant was there holding it open. She stood and straightened the hem of her jean shorts. They were horribly wrinkled from the long flight. “Welcome to Vegas,” the valet attendant said as he reached out to take her luggage. She handed it over wordlessly and gazed about in wonder. Everything was so shiny! Wherever she looked, thousands of lights twinkled at her. People streamed through the front doors of the resort and off in the distance she could hear the noise of a slot machine. New York had been amazing enough, but Vegas was like a totally different planet. She checked in and was shown to a room large enough to house her entire high school class. There was even a Jacuzzi! Unable to contain her excitement, she dug into her purse for her cell phone.

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Her fingers practically shook as she dialed the number for the apartment back in New York. “Hello?” Jasmine sounded tired. Perhaps she should have waited until morning to call. With the threehour time difference, it was nearly two in the morning in New York. “I made it,” Kerri said without preamble. “You should see this place. It is like a mansion.” “That’s nice,” Jasmine said and tried to cover a yawn. “How was your plane ride?” “Not nearly as bumpy as the last one. ” Kerri moved to the window and pulled back the curtains. She sighed with pleasure to see she had a world class view of the Strip. “I wish you could be here with me.” “Me too,” Jasmine replied. “Maybe next time.” Kerri bit her lip, hating herself for what she was about to ask. “He hasn’t called, has he?” Jasmine did not answer for several moments. “Do you mean Griffin?” Kerri gripped the phone tighter. “Yes.” “No, he hasn’t. I’m sorry.” “Don’t apologize. It’s not your fault.” Kerri tried to laugh aside her hurt, but it failed miserably. “So how’s James?” Jasmine chuckled. “Flaccid as usual.. Actually he’s here with me right now.” “Oh, I am sorry!” Kerri said with surprise. “I didn’t know.” “Don’t worry,” Jasmine said. Kerri could envision her new friend rolling her eyes. “It’s not like you are interrupting anything.” “Shush,” Kerri warned. “He’ll hear you.” “I hope he does. Maybe then he will go out and get Viagra like I asked him to months ago.” “Girl, you ain’t right. ” Kerri glanced at her watch and frowned. She had an appointment with a hairdresser at nine, so she really needed to get some sleep. “I suppose I better let you go. I have to get an early start tomorrow.” Jasmine made a clucking sound with her tongue.

“Ah! The infamous first shoot make-over.

Let me guess. Armand has you scheduled for an all-day beauty spa treatment?” “Ding, ding, ding!” Kerri said. “And we have a winner.” “Maybe they’ll go easy on you. My first shoot was for a bathing suit line. Can you imagine having a bikini wax in front of the entire crew?” Kerri winced sympathetically. “Ouch.” “Ouch does not even begin to describe it.”

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“I’m sorry,” Kerri tried to sound sympathetic, but she ended up laughing. “Oh, James is awake!” Jasmine laughed throatily. “Maybe I am about to get lucky.” “Hopefully,” Kerri answered. “I’ll let you go.” “Good luck tomorrow,” Jasmine said. “You’ll knock ‘em dead.” Kerri disconnected the call and reached for her suitcase. As she rummaging for her pajamas, her cell phone rang. She glanced at the Caller ID. It was Jasmine. She flipped it open and held it to her ear. “Did you forget something?” “One thing,” Jasmine answered. “Does your hotel have a bar?” Kerri kicked off her flip flops and unbuttoned her shorts. “I think so. Why?” “Then I suggest you go downstairs and have a drink before you go to bed.

It will help you

relax.” Kerri groaned.

The tequila shots she had done with Griffin two nights before still had her

stomach a tad queasy. Add to that the margaritas she’d had at the strip club and she was turning into an alcoholic practically overnight. “No, thank you. I think I have had enough alcohol for one week.” “I don’t mean get knee-knocking drunk. Just go downstairs, sip on a martini, and you’ll sleep like a baby. Trust me.” The idea did have merit. “I’ll think about it. Good night.” She tossed her cell phone aside and considered Jasmine’s suggestion. spend half an hour downstairs? She was wide awake anyway.

What would it hurt to

She might as well enjoy the scenery

while she was there. Her decision made, she slipped off her shorts and t-shirt and pulled on her favorite pair of jeans and a tunic blouse. She slipped her feet into a pair of wedge sandals and ran a brush through her hair. She re-applied her lipstick and was ready to go. The hallway was deserted as she headed to the elevator. Where were all the people she’d heard inhabited Vegas any day of the year? Probably gambling, she thought to herself. There’d certainly been enough of that going on when she’d peeked into the casino on the way up to her room. She pushed the down button and tapped her foot impatiently. When the doors finally opened, she was digging through her purse looking for a stick of gum. She was unaware that the door was being held for her until someone spoke. “Are you going down?” She glanced up and nodded.

“Yes, I…” her voice trailed off and she stared at the elevator’s

occupant. It was none other than Griffin Davies! “What are you doing here?”

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He stared at her blankly. “Excuse me? Do I know you?” Was this some kind of sick joke? How could he have fucked her five times on Friday night and forget her by Sunday? She stomped onto the elevator and pushed the button for the bottom floor. “You are a jackass,” she muttered. “Did you just call me a jackass?” he asked. She tossed a look over her shoulder and huffed loudly. “Yes, I did.” “You don’t even know me!” he responded heatedly. “So what gives you the right?” She spun around and poked her finger in his chest. “I know all about your kind. You think you are God’s gift, but you are really just a scared little boy.” He drew himself up to his impressive height. She tried to ignore the way he loomed over her, but it was difficult. He began to count off on his fingers. “One, I do not think I am God’s gift. Two, I have never been, and never will be, a scared little boy. And three, who the hell are you?” “Ha!” She threw back her head and laughed in his face.

“Now you want to know my name.

Sorry, but you are about two days too late. If you had wanted to know, you should have asked me in New York.” His face suddenly cleared. “Ah, now I think I know what is going on.” She gave him a look of pure dislike. “I’ll tell you what is going on. You are finally getting the lecture you so desperately deserve. How dare you sleep with someone without even bothering to learn their name?” His lips began twitching with amusement. “I think you should know…” She interrupted him by holding up a hand. “I don’t want to hear your excuses.” “But…” Again she stopped him. “Save your breath. I don’t care to hear any more lies from you.” They finally reached the bottom floor and the elevators doors opened. She tried to exit, but her way was blocked by nearly a dozen men wearing white coats with name badges. “Excuse me,” she said and pushed her way past them. She felt a hand touch her elbow and she swung around to glare at Griffin. “I have nothing more to say to you.” He opened his mouth to speak, but he was stopped by the approach of one of the men wearing a white coat. “It is about time, Cole. What took you so long?” The man she thought was Griffin smiled amiably. “I was unavoidably detained. Go on in. I’ll be with you in a moment.” Kerri watched their exchange with dawning comprehension. It was then she noticed the white

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coat and nametag he was wearing. Cole Davies. Even worse, Doctor Cole Davies. ***** “Ah, fuck me!” Kerri muttered in embarrassment. Cole tried unsuccessfully to hide his grin. “I think my brother already beat me to it.” Her cheeks flamed red. How could she have been so stupid? Now that she looked at him, it was obvious that he was not Griffin.

For one thing, Cole’s hair was slightly longer and his eyes were a

deeper blue. He was a couple of years older and a tad broader in the shoulders, but they looked enough alike that she had no doubt that they were related. Cole stuck out his hand and she looked at it as if it were going to bite her. “I’m Cole Davies, the older, handsomer brother. I assume by your tirade in the elevator that you are already acquainted with Griff?” “Just barely,” she said and took his hand. Cole’s grip was warm and strong. She felt comforted by his touch. It probably had something to do with his being a doctor. Weren’t they said to have magic hands? “I don’t know what happened between you and my brother, but…” She winced and glanced away. “Can I just say I am sorry and we pretend like nothing happened?” Cole grinned and she was struck anew by his resemblance to Griffin. But where Griffin’s teeth were perfect, Cole’s left incisor had a tiny chip.

She found herself intrigued by the slight defection.

“Fair enough.” She realized that she was still gripping his hand and hastily let go.

“You should go.

Your

friends are waiting on you.” He gave her a wicked look. “Let them wait. I find myself curious about the woman who holds my perfect brother in such an ill regard. Women normally fall all over themselves to talk to him. It’s rare to find a woman who doesn’t think he’s the best thing since sliced bread.” Damn her loose tongue. She should learn to think before she opened her mouth. “I am sorry about…” He shook his head. “Don’t apologize. I think I understand what went on and you deserve to be angry. ” His eyes gave her a faintly pitying look. “My brother is used to getting whatever he wants. He sometimes has the annoying habit of overlooking the feelings of those he hurts.” “I am sure he did not mean…” she snapped her mouth closed.

Why in the hell was she

defending Griffin? She barely even knew him and he certainly did not know her.

“I guess you are

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right.” Cole grinned. “Sure I am. You will soon find that I am almost always right.” Kerri tilted her head to one side and eyed him with interest.

“I see that cockiness runs in the

Davies family.” “Along with dashing good looks and an impeccable sense of style.” Cole leaned forward and cupped his hand around his mouth as if he were imparting a secret. “Don’t tell anyone, but I got all the brains in the family.” She found herself laughing out loud. teasing him.

“And Griffin got all the looks.”

She could not help

There was something about Cole that immediately put her at ease.

With Griffin, she

always felt the need to impress. With his brother, she could be herself. He clutched his heart and pretended to stumble. “Ouch! You wound me.” She wrapped her hand around his arm and forced him to be still when some of the hotel guests walked by and gave them odd looks. “How much have you had to drink?” He turned immediately serious. “Not a drop. ” He glanced over his shoulder at the bar directly behind them. “A fact I plan to rectify immediately. Care to join me?” She bit her lip in indecision. The last time she had drank with a Davies, she had ended up in his bed.

How could she be sure she would not do so again? Cole was attractive, in a funny guy sort of

way. Not her usual type, but who knew what might happen? Just to be safe, she better not. She took a step back. “I have an early appointment tomorrow. I should probably go to bed.” He gave her a disappointed look. “You are in Vegas. How can you even think of going to bed at,” he paused to glance at his watch. “Eleven thirty?” “It is Sunday,” Kerri reminded him. “Exactly my point,” Cole said with look of satisfaction. He turned to point toward the sign above the doors leading into the bar. “Karaoke night.” Oh, man! There was nothing better she liked to do than go to a karaoke bar. What rotten luck. “I’d better not.” “Come on. Just for a few minutes.” Cole pressed his hands together like he was praying. “Give me a chance to make up for my brother’s bad impression. The first round is on me.” She tried to remain strong, but she was no match against him. With a sigh, she finally agreed. “Alright, but no more than an hour.” “Wonderful,” Cole said and grabbed her hand. He led her toward the bar, only pausing once to shoot her a mischievous smile. “How well do you know Sonny and Cher?”

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***** “I’ve got you, babe!” Kerri stumbled down the hallway toward her room, the only thing keeping her upright was Cole’s arm about her waist. Her singing was horribly off-key as usual, but the crowd had seemed to love her enthusiasm. “I’ve got you, babe.” She hiccupped, then giggled uncontrollably. “Have you got me, Cole?” He grunted as she slung her arms around his shoulders and pushed him against the wall. “Yes, but only if you stop doing that.” He turned her around and propelled her in the general direction of her room. She grew tired of walking in her sandals, so she stopped to kick them off. Cole sighed and bent down to retrieve them. “What time did you say your appointment was again?” She lifted her left arm and squinted at her watch. All she could see were little dots and squiggly lines. “Seven. What time is it now?” Cole pushed down her left arm and helped her lift her right. “Your watch is on this arm, Kerri.” “Oh!” she laughed and tried again to read the time. “Good Lord, it’s four in the morning!” She felt her stomach heave and had the fleeting notion that she was about to be sick.

She

clamped an arm around her stomach and groaned. “I don’t feel so well.” Cole’s reaction was instantaneous. “Listen to me, Kerri. We are almost to your room. Do you think you can make it?” She tried to speak, but her tongue was fuzzy. All that emerged was a garbled string of words. Suddenly she found herself lifted into his arms. Hmm, a man strong enough to lift her. It would have been romantic had she not felt like a thousand hammers were banging around inside her head. He somehow managed to get her inside her room and onto her bed. She felt a prick and turned her head in time to see him withdraw a needle from her upper arm. She drew back in alarm. “Did you just drug me?” “Relax,” Cole said as he disposed of the needle. “It is just something to make your tummy ache go away.” “Oh,” she murmured. Her eyelids began to feel heavy. “I am sleepy.” He brushed her hair away from her face and pressed a kiss on her forehead.

“Go to sleep.

You’ll feel better in the morning.” He stood, but she grabbed his hand and held on for dear life. “Will you stay with me until I fall asleep? I don’t like to be alone when I am sick.” “You are not sick, Kerri. You are drunk.”

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She cracked open one eye and glared at him. “And whose fault is that? You are the one who kept buying me rounds.” “I know,” he appeared guilty. “I am sorry. I did not know you had such a low tolerance for alcohol.” “I don’t!” she returned. “Just tequila. ” She patted the space on the bed beside her and waited for him to sit. “That’s better. You can take off your shoes if you like. I won’t look.” She knew she was not making any sense, but she was too tired to make him understand. With a soft moan, she turned onto her side and curled against his warm body. Within minutes, she was sound asleep. It seemed like she had barely drifted off before she was being shaken awake. She groaned and shielded her eyes from the bright sunlight piercing her lids. “Go away.” She swatted at the hands that were shaking her. “Kerri, it’s almost seven.” She rolled onto her stomach and pulled the covers over her head. “I don’t want to get up.” She felt a smart rap on her ass and she bolted upright. “What the hell?” Cole grinned at her. “Sorry. It was all I knew to do to get you up.” She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and glared at him.

“Have you ever heard of an alarm

clock?” “Actually yes. It went off thirty minutes ago, but you slept right through it.” She was usually a light sleeper, but the combination of jet lag and too much to drink was playing havoc with her system.

She ran her fingers through her tangled hair and waited for the room to stop

spinning. “Are you still nauseous?” She glanced up at Cole’s concerned face. “Just a bit.” “Do you need another shot?” She looked at him with horror. “God, no! The last thing I want is another glass of alcohol.” Cole lifted an eyebrow. “I meant a shot of Phenergan.” She rubbed the sore spot on her arm and shook her head. Was that what he had given her last night? She vaguely remembered him doing so.

“No, I will be alright after a quick shower.”

She

swung her legs over the side of the bed and tried to stand. A wave of dizziness hit her and she nearly ended up sprawled on the floor. “Maybe I should sit for a little while longer.” She plopped back onto the bed and groaned. “Remind me to never drink again.”

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“Never drink again,” Cole echoed. “Ha, ha! Very funny,” she said dryly. She flopped onto her back and threw her arm over her eyes. “Don’t you have a lecture this morning?” “Not until nine. ” He slid onto the bed and stretched out beside her. “Do you want me to call and cancel your appointment?” He almost reached for the phone, but she stopped him by grabbing his wrist. “No. It’s my first day on the job. I don’t want Armand to get mad at me.” He dropped his hand back onto the bed. “At least you don’t have the shoot until tomorrow.” “Lucky me,” Kerri mumbled.

Her head was still spinning and she was afraid that she might

actually throw up. It was not a very auspicious start to her new modeling career. “I am going to get fired before I even start.” “No, you’re not.” Cole lunged to his feet and took her hand.

“Come on.

All you need is a

warm shower and you will be good as new.” She groaned, but she allowed him to pull her to her feet. He put a hand against her back and kept her upright. He helped her to the bathroom and even assisted her in removing some of her clothes when it became apparent that she was none too steady on her feet.

He opened the shower door and

turned some knobs. Soon, steam was billowing into the room. “There you go,” he said and motioned to the shower. “Get cleaned up. I will wait in the other room and walk you downstairs.” She moved past him, but her heel got caught in the mat that was lying in front of the tub. He put out his hands and caught her before she could trip. She braced her hands on his arms and stared up at him. What had she done to deserve his help? He barely even knew her. “Why are you being so nice to me?” She found herself gazing into his blue eyes without meaning to. A serious expression appeared on his face. “Because my brother wasn’t.” “Oh,” was all she could think of to say. “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.” He stepped away from her and reached for the bathroom door. “Hurry up. You don’t want to be late.” He gave her a crooked smile and exited quickly. Humming to herself, she finished undressing and climbed into the shower. The morning was beginning to look up already. *****

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She was not sure what she had been expecting, but that morning’s spa treatment definitely was not it. For one thing, the hairdresser did not even ask her how she wanted her hair styled. He merely began to brush, color, trim, and style as he saw fit.

Armand must have told them what needed to be

done. After hair, came a manicure and pedicure. She then suffered through an eyebrow waxing that brought tears to her eyes. Gazing at herself in a mirror when it was all finished, she barely recognized herself.

Her hair was trimmed in soft layers, the curls diligently straightened.

Her brows were now

perfectly arched, which drew attention to her wide spaced violet eyes. “How does it look?” Kerri glanced up at the employee who asked the question and blinked in wonder.

“I hardly

recognize myself.” “That was the plan, dear.” The employee patted her on the shoulder and moved away to deal with another client. Kerri quickly gathered her things and plopped a generous tip on the counter. After leaving the spa, she headed back to her room. It was nearly eleven o’clock. If she was lucky, she could get in a few hours of sleep before she had to meet with the costumer later that afternoon.

She hid a yawn behind one hand and unconsciously straightened when a group of men

walked up beside her. One man, a nice looking guy of about thirty, gave her a friendly smile. “Good morning.” She returned the greeting and fiddled with the bag of facial products she had bought. Men never spoke to her. It was pretty amazing what a decent haircut could do. “Are you here alone?” The man sidled closer, completely ignoring his friends, who were carrying on a lively conversation about stock car racing. “As a matter of fact, I am.” She hoped he wasn’t a pervert or mass murderer. “Cool,” he said with a leer. “We should get together later.” “Uh,” Kerri wondered how to put him down nicely. “Actually…” She was saved from having to come up with an excuse by the opening of the elevator. She was elated to see that Cole was on it. He might just be the excuse she was looking for. “Hey, Sexy.” She stepped onto the elevator and slid her arm through his.

She sent a pointed

glance in the other guy’s direction and hoped he could take a hint. Cole’s lips twitched with amusement, but he acted appropriately. “How was the spa, darling?” She ignored the fact that his deep voice was giving her chills. “Very relaxing.” Cole moved his hand to her waist and gave her a light squeeze. “What are your plans for lunch?”

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So much for her nap. “I’m not sure.. What are yours?” “I was thinking we could get a bite to eat at a Mexican restaurant I’ve been hearing about.” “Sounds good.” The men finally got off the elevator and she breathed a sigh of relief. “Thank you once again.” “My pleasure.” Cole dropped his arm from her waist and put a couple of feet between them. “I know we were acting just then, but I was serious about lunch.” She grinned. “I was hoping so. Mexican is my favorite.” “Then what are we waiting for?” Thirty minutes later,

Kerri found herself seated in a trendy café sipping margaritas and

munching on chips and salsa. Cole ordered for them, in Spanish, and regaled her with humorous stories from his years working at the hospital. She reached for a chip and dunked it liberally into the spicy salsa. “Do you live in New York also?” Cole put down his beer bottle and shook his head. “New Orleans actually.” “Oh,” she said with disappointment. He would have been cool to hang out with in New York. “That explains the accent.” He tilted his chair back and motioned for a waiter. “What accent?” She had lived in the South her entire life, so she knew an accent when she heard one.

“The

Louisiana drawl you have going on.” Cole ordered another rounds of drinks. “I guess I’ve been hanging around my Cajun friends too long. Their bad habits are starting to rub off on me.” She laughed at his look of dismay. “Don’t worry about it. The accent’s cute.” He grimaced. “Cute?” “Yeah, cute,” she said and bit into her chip. A bit of salsa dropped on her chin, so she reached for her napkin. “I’m a sucker for accents.” His eyes gleamed with interest.

“Are you now? That explains why you were talking to the

NASCAR freak downstairs.” “Hey! He talked to me.” Cole grinned and lifted the beer to his lips. “If you say so.” Their food arrived and her mouth watered at the enticing smell of fajitas. Once the plates were in front of them, she and Cole dug in. Normally when she was out with a guy, she felt self-conscious eating in front of him.

With Cole, she felt completely at ease.

She took a bite of steak and bell

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peppers and sighed with appreciation. “This is delicious.” “Umm hmm,” Cole murmured though a mouth full of food. She wrapped a tortilla around a piece of steak and popped it into her mouth. “So how old are you?” Cole put down his fork and leaned forward. “How old do I look?” She shook her finger at him. “No avoiding the question. Fess up.” “Thirty-one,” he answered. He picked up his fork, speared a piece of steak and ran it through the glob of guacamole on his plate. “How old are you?” Kerri wiped her mouth with a napkin and grinned. “Don’t you know you should never ask a lady her age?” “Like you’re embarrassed about it,” Cole scoffed. “You can’t be much older than twenty-one.” “Twenty-four actually,” Kerri said. “Where did you go to school?” “High school, college, or med?” Kerri rolled her eyes. “There’s no need to rub in how smart you are. Let’s start off with high school.” Cole tore off a piece of tortilla and popped it into his mouth. He chewed before answering. “I went to a boarding school in Boston. My parents traveled with their business a lot, so Griffin and I spent much of our time there.” Kerri winced. “Sounds lonely.” “Not really,” Cole answered. “I had my brother and my friends. We were allowed to do whatever we wanted really.” “Ah, that explains it,” Kerri said. “No wonder you two are so spoiled now.” “What makes you think I’m spoiled?” Cole asked with a grin. “Just a hunch,” Kerri remarked. “Where did you go to college?” “NYU.” Cole paused to take another bite of fajitas. “I decided to go pre-med. Griffin went into business.” Kerri was surprised by his words. “Griffin went to college?” Cole lifted an eyebrow. “Why is that so surprising?” “I don’t know,” Kerri answered honestly. “I thought he started modeling young, so I just assumed he went into it straight after high school.” Cole laughed. “Actually, I was with him when a photographer first asked him to model. We were sitting on a bench at NYU. This old man comes up to us and asks us if we wanted to be models. I

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was already in med school by then, so I turned him down. Griffin did also, but the man begged and pleaded until he caved in. Turned out the guy was some big hot shot photographer. Griffin got his first GQ cover, but he refused to drop out of school until he’d earned his degree.” “So he shuffled school and a modeling career?” Cole nodded. “For two years. We were both like zombies. Me in med school and Griffin juggling school and modeling. I doubt either of us got more than a dozen hours of sleep each week.” Kerri bit into a tortilla and chewed thoughtfully. “Do you ever regret saying no?” Cole tilted his head to one side and pondered her question. “Maybe at first. Griffin became popular almost overnight, so I would be lying if I said I wasn’t envious. But now, I wouldn’t give up being a doctor for anything.” “What’s your specialty?” “I’m a gastroenterologist.” “Ah,” Kerri said. “That explains why you carry Phenergan.” She glanced down at her spicy food. “I might have need of your skills after eating all this.” “I’m at your disposal,” he laughed. They both returned their attention to their plates. She ate until she could not possibly hold another mouthful. Cole finished his plate and patted his enviably flat stomach. “Care for dessert?” She groaned. “I’m stuffed.” “Me, too,” he agreed and reached for his wallet.

She tried to pay half, but he refused.

“My

treat. I invited you. ” “But only under pressure,” she argued. He put some bills on the table and stood. “Not true. I was coming downstairs to ask you out for lunch anyway. Rescuing you from NASCAR freak was just a bonus.” She pushed back her chair, grimacing when all the food she ate seemed to settle in the pit of her stomach. Between the alcohol and Mexican food, she was going to be worthless for the rest of the day. She probably wouldn’t even be able to fit into half of the clothes she had to try on later that afternoon. They left the restaurant and Cole glanced at his watch. “I probably should be getting back. I have a lecture scheduled for one o’clock.” He gave her an apologetic look. “I hate to run like this.” “Don’t apologize. I feel like taking a nap anyway.” “Lucky dog,” he said. “Napping while the rest of us have work to do.” She did not know where the boldness came from, but she found herself asking him what he was doing later that evening. He made a show of pulling out his Palm and checking it. “Nothing actually.”

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“Good. Then you can go with me to see Celine in concert.” His smile slowly faded. “Are you serious?” She bit her lip to keep from laughing. He was such a guy. Watching Celine had to be his worst nightmare. “Absolutely.” She managed to hold her serious expression for all of eight seconds. “Relax. I’m just kidding.” He gave an exaggerated sigh of relief. “Thank God. You had me worried there for a moment. What do you really want to do?” She shrugged. “I’m not sure. Maybe a little sightseeing?” “Sounds good to me. ” He stepped forward and pressed a quick kiss on her cheek. “I’ll come by at eight and we can decide then.” As he left, she pressed a hand to her tingling cheek. What was it about the Davies boys that had her hormones all in an uproar? It was highly unfair for one family to have been gifted with such amazing sex appeal.

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Chapter Five

“Blackjack!” Kerri looked down at her cards and let out a little whoop. “I won again!” Cole, who was standing behind her, leaned over her shoulder and studied her growing pile of chips. “Very nice. You seem to have a knack for cards.” She grinned over her shoulder at him. “Amazing, huh?” She turned back to her cards in time to see the dealer place a ten on top of a six. “Darn, I got a sixteen. What should I do?” She asked Cole. He propped his chin on her shoulder and studied the cards on the table. The stubble on his cheek tickled her neck as he spoke. “You should take a hit.” She motioned for another card, groaning when she realized it was an eight. “I busted.” The dealer swept the cards from the table, along with the ten dollar bet Kerri had placed. She tossed a chip at the dealer and began gathering her winnings. “Are you quitting?” Cole asked. She nodded quickly. “Yes. I have enough sense to quit while I am ahead.” “Smart girl,” Cole praised. His words trailed off when she detoured to another table. “What in the hell are you doing?” Kerri smiled wickedly and placed a bet on the roulette wheel. The ball landed on red and she whooped when she won. She scooped up her winnings and turned back to him. “I’ve always wanted to play roulette.” Cole laughed at her kid in the candy store look. “Are you through now?” “I’m through. Just let me cash in my chips.” They found a change booth and she turned her chips into cash. She counted the bills, amazed to see that she had won nearly three hundred dollars.

She was in Vegas, with an extra three hundred

burning a hole in her pocket. Oh, the possibilities! “Drinks are on me for the rest of the night,” she proclaimed. “I thought you gave up alcohol,” Cole reminded her.

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“That was before I won. It’s time for a little celebration.” “Where do you want to go?” She glanced around the casino, her gaze landing on the popular dance floor located on the ground floor. “I’m not really dressed for some of the bigger clubs.” Cole’s gaze dropped to her capri jeans and cami-set. “I think you look fine.” A rush of heat flooded her veins. When he said the words, his blue eyes darkened to an intriguing shade. “But not dressy enough.” “I’ve got an idea,” Cole said and took her arm. “Follow me.” They went back to the karaoke bar they had visited the night before, only this time the stage had been moved aside to make a dance floor. She and Cole found a booth in the back of the bar and quickly claimed it. A waitress came by to take their order and Kerri rattled off their usual. As they sipped on their drinks, her eyes wandered toward the dance floor.

She was reminded of Friday night, when she had

danced with Griffin. She was unaware that her face had clouded until Cole remarked upon it. “Penny for your thoughts.” It would be rude to tell him that she had been thinking about his brother, so she shrugged his question away. He already knew about their one night stand. There was no need to bring it back up. “I’m just worried about tomorrow’s shoot.” Cole patted her shoulder consolingly. “You’ll do fine. My brother tells me ninety-nine point nine percent of modeling is just standing there.” “That’s what they keep saying,” Kerri laughed. “But somehow I doubt it.” “What made you decide to go into modeling?” Kerri studied her new manicure. “It wasn’t a decision actually. I was having lunch with a friend when Armand asked me to join his group.” Cole shook his head in disbelief. “Some people were just born lucky.” “Hey!” Kerri exclaimed. “I resent that remark. I’ve never been lucky.” “And just how much did you just win off a ten dollar bet?” Cole pointed out. Her mouth snapped closed. He had a point. “Okay, some maybe I’m a little lucky.” “Beauty, brains and blackjack skills.” Cole clutched his heart. “I think I’m in love.” “I have beauty?” Kerri teased. Cole turned his gaze to her face. “You know you do.” No she didn’t actually, but she’d accept his compliment. “Thank you.”

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What could’ve become a tender moment was ruined by a loud voice piercing the air at her side. “There you are!” A man appeared at their booth and sat down beside Kerri.

“I have been

looking for you everywhere.” She groaned when she realized it was the NASCAR fan she had met earlier.

She gave him a

weak smile and inched closer to Cole. “Hey.” The guy was obviously drunk judging by the whiskey fumes that hit her. He put his hand on her knee and squeezed suggestively. “Do you want to dance?” She tried to politely shake off his hand. “I don’t dance.” “Oh, come on now.

A pretty thing like you? Surely you can dance with old Jake.

Your

husband won’t mind.” “He’s not my husband,” Kerri corrected automatically. She realized her mistake when Jake’s eyes lit up.

His hand returned to her knee and started

moving higher. “In that case, you definitely have to dance with me.” Cole put his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close to his side. “I don’t think she wants to dance.” Jake ignored Cole’s less than friendly remark and reached for her hand. “Come on, honey. I want to see you shake your ass.” What was up with this guy? Could he not take a hint? “Thank you for asking, but I’d rather not..” Jake’s gaze lingered on her breasts.

She could feel her face turning red the longer he stared.

Really, enough was enough. She felt Cole shift beside her a second before she felt his lips against her ear.

“What do you want to do about your stalker?” His breath against her ear caused her to shiver.

She tried to pretend she was cold, but she had a sneaking suspicion it was entirely caused by the man beside her. She turned her head and cupped his cheek with one hand. She leaned in close, so that it would almost appear like they were kissing and looked into his eyes. “Do you want to get out of here?” His blue eyes raked over her face. A flash of heat appeared in their depths. “Do you want to?” If she hadn’t been ready before, she was definitely ready now.

Their close proximity was

sending chills down her spine and she was looking forward to some alone time with him.

It was

probably wrong to desire the brother of a man she had just slept with, but her morals seemed to have taken a back seat to the need coursing through her body. “Yes.” Cole stood and reached for her hand. Jake opened his mouth like he wanted to protest, but a hard

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look from Cole had him sinking back into his seat without a word. Cole and Kerri’s fingers entwined as he led them out of the bar. The warmth of his palm against hers was comforting, making her forget her worries. They stepped into the hallway and he turned to her. “What now?” He had to ask? Maybe she had misread his signs and he really didn’t want to sleep with her. Any other normal, red-blooded male would have headed straight upstairs. “We could try another bar if you want.” He stepped close to her and tilted her chin up.

Maybe she hadn’t misread his signs after all.

“Then again,” she corrected hastily. “It’s getting kinda late.” His lashes swept down to hide his expression. “Are you ready to go to bed?” Boy, was she? Excitement began churning in her belly. She purposefully kept her tone light. “We could do that.” A seductive smile lit his eyes. “Yours or mine?” “Which one’s closer?” “Mine,” he answered. A rush of heat flooded her groin. “Then yours it is.” ***** Cole’s room was only on the fifth floor, but it seemed to take forever for the elevator to reach it. After agreeing to go to his room, she had expected him to kiss her. So far he had not even touched her except to hold her hand. She was against public displays of affection on the basis of principles, but in this case she would not be adverse to it. Cole proved to be too much of a gentleman to test her. They reached his room and he began digging in his pockets. “Where is that damned key?” She crossed her arms and leaned against the wall while he searched. Finally he pulled it out and inserted it into the lock. The door clicked open and she followed him inside. This was it. The unavoidable awkward stage that came before every bout of sex that she’d ever engaged in. Cole stripped off his jacket and tossed it over a chair.

He motioned toward the mini bar.

“Would you like something to drink?” She walked further into the room, wondering why he was wasting time with pleasantries. She was ready to have sex. “Maybe some water?” He pulled out a bottle and brought it over to her. She opened it and took a sip, her eyes never leaving his face. What was taking him so long to make a move? She handed the bottle back to him and he turned to place it on the dresser. As he did so, she admired the fit of his jeans. She was a sucker for a nice ass. Her resolution to sleep with him only increased.

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“Would you like anything else?” Yeah, you naked and on top of me, she felt like saying.

Instead, she shook her head and

shuffled her feet nervously. “No, I’m fine.” He opened his mouth to say something, but they were interrupted by the ringing of his cell. He un-clicked it from its holder and flipped it open. “Hello?” She could make out the faint sound of a man’s voice, but not much else. Cole motioned for her to take a seat, which she did, while he continued talking. Whoever it was on the other end seemed to be a talker, judging by the fact that Cole only murmured a few words now and then. She felt uncomfortable listening to his conversation, so she angled her chair in front of the television and reached for the remote. She turned down the volume and surfed the channels. Nothing was on, so she finally left it on the hotel information channel. She watched small infomercials about the restaurants located in the hotel and stifled a yawn. Cole covered the mouthpiece. “I’ll just be a minute.” “Take your time,” she replied. She kicked off her heels and propped her feet on the bed. This was surely a first. Most men couldn’t wait to rip her clothes off. Cole seemed content to not rush into anything. “She’s just playing you again,” Cole said to whoever was on the other line.

“When are you

gonna learn?” It sounded like female troubles. Kerri felt a jot of sympathy for the unknown person Cole was lecturing. She reached for the remote again. When she straightened, she felt a hand on her shoulder. The hand slipped to her breast. Tilting her head, she studied Cole’s face.

He was still on the phone, but his hot gaze was

focused on her. She bit back a moan when he gently squeezed her. Smiling wickedly, Cole covered the receiver and whispered, “Do you think you can be quiet?” Probably not, but she could try. She lifted an eyebrow and reached out to cup his ass. “Can you?” she mouthed in return. Cole dropped to his knees and parted her legs. This was certainly getting interesting. He held the phone between his chin and shoulder while his other hand crept up her thigh. “Why do you let her do this to you?” Cole asked. His fingers began to delve under her panties. Kerri’s breath caught in her throat and she bit back a moan. His finger slid inside her and she stuck her fist in her mouth to keep from making a sound. “You’re coming here?” Cole withdrew his hand so suddenly that Kerri nearly fell off the chair.

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“Why?” She pouted at the abrupt end to her pleasure. Who was coming? And, an even better question, why wasn’t she? Cole’s usually expressive face was emotionless. He glanced at her then moved to the other side of the room. He turned his back to her and continued speaking. “I guess I will see you when you get here then. Call me and let me know what time your flight is coming in. Okay, bye.” He flipped the phone closed and turned back to her apologetically. “I’m sorry.” Something didn’t seem right. Whose arrival would be so surprising that it would cause Cole to stop touching her? Disappointment lodged in her belly.

He was probably married.

That would

certainly explain it. “Who were you talking to?” If he thought the question rude, he didn’t say it.

He tossed the cell on the bedside table and

rubbed his forehead. “Griffin.” “Griffin?” For a moment, happiness overwhelmed her. Then she remembered the situation and came crashing down. “Griffin is coming here?” Cole nodded and gave her a careful look. “Does that bother you?” “No.” She acted unconcerned. “Why should it?” Cole glanced pointedly at the bed she was sitting on. “It might be a bit awkward considering what we were about to do.” She did not like the finality of his words.

“What we were about to do?” Did that mean they

weren’t going to? Did she even want to now that she knew Griffin was coming to Vegas? “Look, Kerri. I don’t think this thing between us is a good idea.” She was taken aback.

No guy had ever gotten this far with her and then blown it off.

“You

thought it was a good idea five minutes ago.” Cole pulled up a second chair and dropped down beside her. “That was before I found out that my brother, the guy you slept with Friday night, is coming here. Things would be awkward.” It was the second time he’d said that. Was there any other reason he didn’t want to sleep with her? “It’s going to be awkward anyway, don’t you think?” She pointed out reasonably. “But why compound it by sleeping together?” He reached for her hand and laced their fingers together. “I like you, Kerri. I really do, but I can’t see myself sleeping with you when you might still be hung up on Griffin.” “But I barely even know him!”

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Cole gave her a pointed look. “You knew him well enough to sleep with him.” “I was drunk!” She protested. “That’s not a good enough excuse.

You knew what you were doing.

attracted to him, else you wouldn’t have ended up in his bed.

Some part of you was

How do I know that you are not just

trying to use me as his replacement?” Was this guy serious? He had just as much, if not more, sex appeal than Griffin. No woman in her right mind would sleep with him just because of his brother.

Even though she had slept with

Griffin, Cole was the brother she had taken the time to get to know. And so far, she liked what she saw. “I wouldn’t do that to you, Cole.” He let go of her hand and stood.

“Not intentionally, but until I know how you feel about

Griffin, I can’t sleep with you. It wouldn’t feel right.” She stood also, noting with displeasure the way he stepped away from her.

“I guess there’s

nothing left for me to say then. ” He stuffed his hands in the pocket of his jeans. “I guess not.” She gathered her purse and slipped back into her heels.

She was almost to the door when he

spoke. “Don’t be mad at me. ” She glanced back at him as she opened the door. “I’m not. I’m just highly disappointed.” She left before she could do something stupid, like break down and beg him to have sex with her. ***** “That’s it. Move a little closer and tilt your chin to the right.” Kerri did as the photographer instructed.

The model working with her was an attractive man,

whom she had seen in many of the Covington and Company ads. He was pretty in almost a feminine way and unless she was mistaken, he was probably gay. For three hours, she’d posed in every way imaginable. She’d smiled, pouted, and batted her eyelashes for all she was worth. She felt like an idiot, but no one had laughed at her yet. “Carter, put your arm around Kerri. Lean close like you are about to kiss her.” Kerri’s first impulse was to lean back, but she managed to remain still while the photo was taken. The photographer stopped to change the film in his camera and they were finally allowed a short break. Carter went off to smoke a cigarette, while she headed to the back of the room where Armand was supervising. He gave her a warm smile of welcome. “You are a natural, Kerri. The camera loves you.” “It does?” She still found it odd that she now a model. “I was worried I was doing it all wrong.”

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“No, you’re perfect. Absolutely perfect,” Armand reassured her. “Not to toot my own horn, but I knew you would be.” He patted the chair next to him and she sat down, taking care not to snag the priceless linen sheath she was wearing. When she’d looked in the mirror after her hair and make-up was done, she had not recognized herself. She’d actually looked pretty. Even the make-up artist had been surprised by how well everything turned out. “Are you enjoying Vegas?” Kerri nodded. She’d been having a blast up until last night when she’d learned Griffin was coming to town. “It’s been fun. Thank you for giving me the job.” “You’re welcome,” Armand answered. He patted her knee. “You’re doing wonderful. Do you have any plans for tonight.” “No. Why?” “There is a party tonight I want you to attend. Some of the top names in modeling are going to be there and I want to introduce you around.” Kerri’s attention turned back to Armand. “A party?” Armand laughed at her horror-stricken look. “It’s nothing to be concerned about. It’s completely informal, just a small gathering of some business associates of mine. And don’t worry about getting a date, I already have one lined up for you.” Her jaw dropped. He’d set her up on a blind date? “I’m not sure that’s such a good idea.” Armand waved aside her refusal. “Of course it is. You’ll love him. All the ladies do.” “Oh, they do?” Kerri laughed. “Just who is this paragon?” “You’ve probably heard of him. Griffin Davies?” Kerri’s jaw dropped even further. He wanted her to go on a date with Griffin? Were the fates really that cruel? “Armand, thank you, really. But I’d rather go alone.” “Nonsense. I can’t have my best girl showing up stag for her first big party.” “I thought you said it was going to be small.” Armand laughed at her naiveté.

“Darling, in the modeling world, there are no small parties.

Only small minds.” She knew if she continued to refuse, Armand would become curious and want to know why she opposed, so she let the subject drop. It was only for one night. She could get through one night. She hoped so at least. As soon as the shoot wrapped, she changed into her own clothes and gathered her belongings.

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Armand had sent a limo to pick her up that morning. She waited impatiently for the driver to show up at the front of the Venetian, where the shoot had taken place.

There was so much she needed to do.

She would not change her hair and make-up since it was already fixed, but she had to find something to wear. She doubted she owned anything fancy enough, even for an informal party. The driver arrived and carried her the short distance to her hotel. As soon as he parked, she was out of the door and nearly running across the lobby. Her rush barely even gained a reaction. No doubt people in Vegas were used to seeing odd occurrences everyday. Before she could get to the elevator, her stomach growled. She realized it was well after five and she’d not eaten all day. She would have to get something else she would be a total monster that night. Spinning around, she headed to a small café located at the front of the casino. She stood in line, debating salad or club sandwich, when someone tapped her on her shoulder. She took her eyes off the too pricey menu and turned around. It was Cole. “Hello.” Her mind went blank. Last night, she could’ve thought of a million things to say to him. Now she couldn’t think of one thing. “Hello.” He was dressed in his conference clothes, so he must’ve just finished a lecture. His eyes moved from the top of her head to the bottom of her chin. “You look good.” She actually blushed. “Thank you. You too.” His lips quirked at the corners. “Thank you.” She realized belatedly what she’d said and wanted to kick herself. Why had she said that? It was like a bad scene out of a very bad movie. Not knowing what else to say, she turned back to the menu. She was next in line to order and still had not decided. “Try the key lime pie. It’s to die for,” Cole whispered in her ear. She stiffened and tried to ignore the way his voice sent chills across her skin. “I’m just having a salad.” “Oh,” he sounded disappointed. Well, he was not the one who had to fit into a certain size all week. She already had to deal with bloating for the next few days, so she certainly couldn’t afford to gain an extra pound now. She placed her order, then stood off to the side while Cole placed his. Please hurry, she silently begged the workers behind the counter. All they had to do was hand her one of the pre-packaged salads and a packet of dressing and she could be on her way. Obviously, that was too much for them to grasp. Cole finished ordering and moved beside her. “Want some?”

He opened his straw and stuck it into his cup.

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She glanced up at his unintended double entendre. Was he that blind? Of course, she did. And she was not referring to his coke. She wanted him. “No, thank you.” He took a sip of his coke and grimaced. “I don’t blame you. This stuff will kill you. Nothing but acid.” “Then why do you drink it?” She had intended not to make conversation, but she couldn’t help be drawn into his friendly overtures. He grinned and took another sip. “Because of the caffeine.” “Don’t they make coffee for that?” He shook his head. “I prefer my drinks cold.” She did too, but she saw no need to inform him of that. She finally got her salad. His order was handed over at the same time, so there was no help for it. She was going to have to walk upstairs with him. In the elevator, she hummed along with the music in an effort to take her mind off the fact that he was there. She should’ve known better. “Here. I bought you something,” he said and began digging in his bag. “What is it?” she asked as he handed over a carton. He grinned and looked too adorable by half. “Did I mention the pie was sugar free? You can eat it and not feel guilty in the morning.” She wished he could say the same thing about sleeping with her. She took the carton and placed it in her own bag. “You didn’t have to buy me anything.” “I know. I wanted to.” Now would be the time to tell him that she was going out with Griffin that night, but the words died on her lips. It would not be what he wanted to hear. Besides, she’d only known him a couple of days. Did she really owe him any explanations? The elevator stopped at the fifth floor and the time to tell him vanished. Cole stepped off the elevator, but he put his hand against the doors to keep them open. “Go out with me tonight.” She blinked in surprise. He was asking her out. Tonight of all nights? Briefly she thought of blowing off the party, but she knew Armand would never forgive her. “I can’t.” He looked disappointed. “Oh.” “It’s not that I don’t want to,” she rushed to explain. “I have a party to go to tonight. Maybe tomorrow?”

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He gave her a brief look. “I’m flying home tomorrow morning.” “Oh.” Now it was her time to look disappointed. He was leaving so soon? But she had just met him. “Tell you what,” Cole said. “You go to the party. Then we can get together afterwards.” She was tempted. Boy, was she tempted. “It might be kinda late.” “That’s alright. I’ll wait up for you.” He stepped back and the elevator doors shut before she could tell him the real reason she was reluctant to go out with him that night. ***** She was pacing the floor by the time Griffin arrived. He was nearly thirty minutes late, but that was not what worried her.. Her mind, preoccupied by thoughts of Cole and how he would react when he learned she’d went out on a date with his brother, would not allow her to relax. When the knock sounded on her door, she nearly jumped out of her skin. What had she gotten herself into? Gathering her flagging confidence about her, she opened the door and smiled pleasantly. “Good evening.” The expression on Griffin’s face was priceless. First he was shocked, then confused, and finally amused. “Please tell me you’re Kerri.” She opened the door and motioned him inside. “Nice of you to finally learn my name.” He actually looked embarrassed. “I’m sorry about being such an ass. I meant to call you. I really did, but then I realized I didn’t have your number or your name. I felt like a complete idiot.” She found she wasn’t even angry about it anymore. “You don’t have to apologize.” He cocked his head to one side. “I wasn’t.” She was taken aback. “What?” He smiled to show he was teasing. “I don’t recall you asking for my name.” “I didn’t have to. I knew who you were.” “Only the person you’d seen in ads or on television, not the real me,” Griffin pointed out. She shrugged. He had a point. She didn’t know him, certainly not well enough to have slept with him. She reached for her clutch and turned toward the door. “Shall we go?” He reached out and touched her arm. “Why didn’t you tell me you were a model?” Her grip on her purse tightened. She really wished he wouldn’t touch her. She hated knowing that she was still affected by his touch. “I didn’t see where it mattered.” “Of course it matters.” His blue eyes, so much like Cole’s, stared into hers. “I don’t make a habit of mixing business with pleasure.”

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She had to laugh at that whopper.

“Who are you trying to fool? You’ve been linked with at

least a dozen models.” “Complete fabrications, I assure you.” She closed her eyes, silently praying for the strength to get through this one night.

“Griffin,

can’t we just pretend nothing happened? We were both drunk that night. Let’s just go to this party and get it over with. Okay?” “What if I don’t want to forget it?” She gave him a confused look. “What?” He reached for her hands and drew her closer. “I like you. I want to get to know you better.” “You already know me pretty well,” she pointed out breathlessly. He reached up and touched her cheek. Damned if she still didn’t get tingles. “I want to know more.” She licked her suddenly dry lips and wondered how to answer. On one hand, she was tempted to give Griffin a shot. On the other, she wanted to have a go at a relationship with Cole. She couldn’t have it both ways.

Or could she? What was she thinking? Of course she couldn’t.

“I don’t know

what to say.” Griffin smiled his slow, seductive smile. “Say yes.” “You didn’t ask me a question.” “I’m asking now.” She stared at him, taking careful note of his perfect hair, perfect smile, and perfect body. He was almost the spitting image of Cole, yet the two could not be more different. comforting to be around.

With Griffin, she was never sure of his feelings.

Cole was jovial and

He seemed like such a

guarded person, yet he appeared to be serious at the moment. “Why don’t we just go to this party and take it from there?” His smile faded, but he nodded. “Alright.” He was probably not used to being turned down.

With his looks, he had girls throwing

themselves at him on a daily basis. What did he see in her? Perhaps he was attracted to the hard to get vibe she was currently giving off. Some men were like that. They always wanted what they thought they couldn’t have. The party was in full swing by the time they got there. Griffin was immediately besieged by the press, while Kerri was virtually ignored.

Carter, boyfriend in tow, ambled over to say hello, but

departed after a brief conversation. She stood in a corner, trying not to look conspicuous, while avidly

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eying the fashionably dressed people. She was dressed in a simple black cocktail dress, which Armand thoughtfully sent over at the last minute. He must have suspected that Kerri had no suitable clothing of her own with her. “Are you with the press?” Kerri glanced up, surprised to see a tall, elegant blonde talking to her. “Me? No, I am with D’Sandro. ” “Oh.” The blonde pursed her full lips together. “You’re a model then?” “I just started. ” Kerri stuck out her hand. “Kerri Manley.” The blonde shook her hand briefly. “Nice to meet you. Anna Ridge.” Hannah Ridge. The name sounded vaguely familiar. “Do you model also, Anna?” Anna laughed as if the idea amused her. “Oh, my. No. I am an actress.” It finally clicked in Kerri’s brain. Anna was the actress set to star with Griffin in his upcoming television series. She’d heard about it on the entertainment channel earlier in the week. “You know Griffin then?” Anna accepted a glass of champagne from a passing server and waited while Kerri did the same. “Yes. Griffin is such a dear. How do you know him?” Kerri tried not to look smug, but failed miserably. “He’s my date actually.” Hannah nearly choked on her champagne. “Your date?” “Yes. We’re old friends from New York. ” It was only a tiny white lie. What would it hurt? “I see. ” Anna said and turned a nice shade of pink. “I wonder why he hasn’t mentioned you.” Kerri gave Anna a second look. Was she implying that they were more than friends? It hardly mattered, but Kerri couldn’t help her entirely feminine response. “I was just thinking the same thing.” Anna smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. They remained cold and locked on Kerri’s face. She glanced pointedly at the glass in Kerri’s hands.

“You know, you shouldn’t be drinking champagne.

It’s so terribly fattening.” Kerri’s mouth dropped open at the other woman’s rudeness. Before she could respond, Griffin appeared and draped his arm around Kerri’s waist. “There you are. I’ve been looking for you everywhere. ” He pressed a kiss to her cheek and squeezed her tightly. He gave a brief nod to his costar. “Hello, Anna.” Anna’s pinched expression disappeared as soon as Griffin showed up.

Suddenly she was all

smiles and simpering laughter. “Hello, Griff. I was just talking to your lovely friend.” Kerri was amazed at the woman’s sudden change in demeanor. She must be a really good actor.

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She was certainly fooling Griffin. Unable to stand there a moment longer, Kerri touched Griffin’s arm and tilted her chin toward the dance floor. “Would you like to dance?” “Sure. See you around, Anna.” He was obviously blind to the actress’ adoration. He left her with barely a second glance. “I’m sorry about earlier,” Griffin began. “I didn’t mean to leave you alone so long.” “Don’t worry about it,” Kerri said. “I’m a big girl.” He put his arms around her waist and she recalled their first dance. Then she’d been so thrilled he’d asked her that she hadn’t noticed how odd they looked together. Griffin, so tall and muscular. Her, short and dumpy. Kerri suddenly realized they were gaining a lot of attention. Surely they didn’t look that odd together? She spotted Armand in the crowd, talking to a group of news reporters. Suddenly there were cameras going off everywhere.

She was too blinded by the flash to notice they were all

pointed in her direction. ***** “Ah! That’s much better.” Kerri tossed her heels onto the opposite seat and rubbed her aching feet.

It had seemed like

she’d been dancing for hours. She was sweaty and tired and ached all over. If she didn’t know better, she’d swear she’d just wrapped up a night long orgy. Griffin did not look much better. His tie was askew, his jacket long ago tossed aside, and his hair was delightfully mussed.

“I can tell I’m getting old when staying out all night dancing doesn’t

have the appeal it used to.” She gave him a look out of the corner of her eye. “How old are you? Like twenty seven?” He groaned and covered his eyes with one arm. “Twenty-nine and don’t remind me.” “You’re doing well for an old man. I’m only twenty-four and I feel like I’ve been put through the wringer.” “Old?” Griffin echoed.

He lifted an eyebrow and lowered his voice suggestively. “I’m still

young enough to have you scream my name four times in one night.” She turned as red as the lacy bra and panties set she wore. “It was five times actually.” “Oh, really?” He slid closer and put his arm around her. “Care to try and break our record?” Yes, she wanted to scream. Then she remembered Cole. Sweet, caring Cole who waited for her back at the hotel. “I think we should keep our relationship platonic. You don’t like to mix business with pleasure, remember?” “That was before I got to know you. You’re the exception.”

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His finger was lightly tracing her collarbone.

As she hesitated, the finger dropped lower and

toyed with the neckline of her dress. If she was going to end this, she’d better do it now else she was going to end up with her legs spread, begging him to have his way with her. “I’m not special. Really, I’m not.” He touched the curve of her breast, his eyes on hers the entire time. “Yes, you are.” He tugged her dress down, baring her bra to his gaze. He flicked the flimsy strap. “Oh, I like this.” She bit her lip, struggling to keep her wits about her. Okay, so she was half naked with a sexy man dying to have sex with her. What should she do? Griffin was a sure thing, while Cole was a wild card. If she turned down Griffin, there was a good chance she would be sleeping alone tonight. Her hormones screamed at her to give in, but her heart longed to give Cole a chance. Her decision made, she reached up and covered Griffin’s hand before he could unhook her bra. “I am not going to sleep with you, Griffin..” His face registered his disappointment, but his voice remained calm. “Who said anything about sleeping?” She pulled her dress up and slipped her arms into the sleeves. “You know what I mean.” He sat back and studied her thoughtfully. “Is there someone else?” She was not about to discuss her feelings for Cole with him. “There’s no one else.” “You’ve already slept with me, Kerri. I don’t understand your reticence now.” Neither did she.

If he’d asked her to sleep with him again before she’d come to Vegas, she

would’ve jumped at the chance. She couldn’t think of a viable response, so she put him off. “Can we talk about this tomorrow?” “I’m going to hold you to that,” Griffin warned. The limo pulled up to the hotel entrance and he climbed out to hold the door open for her. He reached out his hand to help her to her feet. She was going to leave him with a polite handshake, but he surprised her by pulling her forward and kissing her. When he pulled back, she swayed on her feet.

He would be so much easier to resist if he

weren’t such a good kisser. “Good night, Kerri.” He kissed her once more and climbed back in the limo. She turned and hurried away before she could change her mind. Once she was in the lobby of the hotel, she grabbed her cell and dialed Cole’s number. He answered on the first ring. “How was the party?” “Exhausting,” she answered honestly. “Were you asleep?” “No. I was waiting for your call.”

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She grinned like a Cheshire cat, grateful he couldn’t see the dopey look on her face.

“You

didn’t have to wait up.” “Yes, I did. This is our last night together. Remember?” Why did he have to remind her? She was already dreading the next morning, knowing he would be on a plane back to New Orleans. “I’m in the lobby right now. Do you want to come down and meet me?” “I’ve got a better idea,” Cole said. “Why don’t you come up here? We can veg out in front of the television and throw popcorn at each other.” “Do you even have popcorn?” He paused. “Actually, no.. How about a pillow fight then?” She laughed.

“Sounds like a plan.” She remembered how sweaty she was.

“On second

thought, why don’t you come to my room? I need to get a quick shower.” “Want some company?” She almost dropped her phone, but recovered nicely. “Cut it out, Romeo. You’ll get me all hot and bothered and no one will be around to take the edge off.” “What about me?” This time she did drop the phone. She picked it up, praying he had not heard the thunk as it hit the ground. “I thought you didn’t want to sleep with me.” It took so long for him to respond, she began thinking he wasn’t going to. “I changed my mind,” he finally answered. Her heart leapt into her throat. before she could change her mind.

“I’ve leave the door unlocked for you,” she said and hung up

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Chapter Six

As she showered, Kerri was so nervous she couldn’t keep her hands steady as she shaved her legs.

She nicked herself more times than she cared to count.

“Damn razor,” she muttered as she

wiped the specks of blood from her knee. She jumped a foot when Cole knocked on her door to ask if she was okay. “Fine,” she called back. “I’m almost finished.” She turned off the shower and wrapped a towel around her body. Steam clouded up the mirror, so she had to use a washrag to see her reflection.

Her hair, which had looked so pretty earlier, was

stuck to her head in damp ringlets. She tore off a piece of toilet paper and stuck it to the worst cut on her knee, the one that refused to stop bleeding. She ran a brush through her hair and finished drying her body. She reached for her robe and realized she’d left it lying on the bed. There was no way she was going out there in only her towel, so she cracked open the door and called for Cole.

“Can you

bring me my robe?” A moment later, his hand appeared holding her pink fleece robe and matching slippers. “Thank you,” she said as she snatched them and disappeared into the bathroom again. She dropped the towel, peeled off the bloody piece of toilet paper, and put on her robe. She looked like a wet kitten. If he found her sexy now, she was going to suggest he have his eyes checked. When she emerged from the bathroom, Cole was sitting on the edge of the bed flipping through the channels on the television. He glanced up, his blue eyes twinkling with mischief. “That’s a good look for you.” “Yeah right,” she scoffed. She stood there, nervously shuffling her feet until he patted the spot beside him. “Come sit down. Matlock’s about to come on.” She lifted an eyebrow. “We are not spending your last night in Vegas watching Matlock.” “Why not? It’s a good show.” She grabbed the remote from his hand. “This is my room. If we are going to watch television, I get to pick which show.” He moved over so she could sit down, silently watching as she surfed the channels. She found

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a late night comedy show and tossed the remote aside. “This is more like it.” When she glanced back at Cole to see his reaction, she noticed he was staring at her. “What?” He shook his head. “I’ve never realized how beautiful you really are.” She rolled her eyes. “Uh huh. Sopping wet, dressed in my bunny robe, and matching slippers.” “The slippers are cute.” She lifted her leg and wriggled her toes. “Are they really?” “Yes,” he said with a nod. He reached for her foot and put it in his lap. “I especially like the bunny ears.” “Would you like me to buy you a pair?” “I’d better stick with my manly slippers.

I can’t have all my women laughing me out of the

bedroom.” Her smile faded. All his women? What the hell did that mean? “Relax. I’m just joking,” Cole said with a laugh. He’d brought up an important point. She put her foot on the floor and gave him a serious look. “Do you have a girlfriend back home?” He frowned. “No. Would it matter if I did?” “Of course it matters. I’m not in the habit of sleeping with some other girl’s man.” “And is that what you’re going to do with me?” She was confused. Hadn’t they already decided they were going to sleep together? Maybe she’d misread their earlier conversation. “I was hoping so.” His lips curved into a smiled. “Impatient?” If he only knew! “Not really,” she said nonchalantly. “Come here,” he whispered huskily. Her knees actually trembled. Now this was more like it. She scooted over until they were scant inches apart. His hand came up and curved around her cheek. “Kiss me.” He didn’t have to ask twice. She leaned forward and pressed her lips to his, savoring the smooth feel of his mouth against hers.

The faint evening shadow of his beard tickled her chin.

His fingers

brushed her hair away from her neck as he moved his lips to the sensitive area between her neck and shoulder. “Cole,” she whispered. He lifted his head. “Yes?” She framed his face between her hands. “You’re not just teasing me are you?”

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He shook his head. “No.” “Good,” she answered and pulled him forward for another long, lingering kiss. Things naturally progressed until she was lying on the bed with him atop her. Her robe came undone and his talented fingers caressed her breasts. He cupped them with his hands and lifted them to his mouth. She cried out when his teeth grazed her nipple, lightly biting and then sucking. She’d never been turned on by men playing with her breasts, but something about Cole’s touch had her writhing and craving more. His hands trailed down her waist and moved between her legs. She opened her knees allowing him to move freely. His lips followed the path his hands had taken. She put a pillow over her face to muffle the screams she made as she came with only a few flicks of his tongue. He continued lapping as shudders wracked her body. Good Lord, he was talented.

She felt one finger and then two inside her, testing her width.

She tossed the pillow aside, desperate to watch his face as he looked at her. His face was flushed, but he seemed intent on pleasuring her first. She pushed him back and sat up on the edge of the bed. He was crouched at the foot, his body neatly trapped between her legs. She’d never been a brazen lover, always scared to take the lead but this time she wanted to be adventurous.

She had a feeling Cole

would oblige her. “What do you want me to do?” she asked. Her voice was scratchy from all the screaming she’d done earlier. Cole’s shirt had been removed and she boldly ran her gaze over his taut pecs and abdomen. Her gaze slipped lower to his jeans, where his dick was straining against the zipper.

He spread her legs

wider and sat back on his heels. “I want to see you touch yourself.” Her lips curved into a seductive smile. Ooh, she was going to like this game. She cupped her breasts in her hands and teased her nipples. “Like this?” His gaze darkened as it lifted to her face. “Lick your fingers. ” She did as he asked, being sure to slowly run her tongue over her fingers. “What do you want me to do now?” His face was flushed, his breath coming faster and she knew he would not be able to hold back much longer. He pulled the lips of her sex apart and blew a stream of hot air. She shivered and nearly came for the second time. “I want to see you touch yourself here.” She did as she asked, moaning softly when her fingers touched her swollen sex. something she’d done before, but never for an audience. moved her hips against her hands. “Is this what you wanted?”

It was

Her fingers curved into her body as she

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He stood, which put her at eye level with his zipper. “Keep going,” he instructed as his fingers moved to his jeans and he unzipped them. Her eyes bulged when his arousal sprang free. Oh my, this was going to be interesting. The movement of her fingers sped up at the sight of his penis, hard and begging to be inside her. She came violently, her scream echoing in the room. Before she could even recover, his hands wrapped around her waist and he pulled her to the very edge of the bed. She cried out as he entered her.

With her legs spread and him kneeling before her,

the sensation was

unbelievable. Tremors were still wracking her body, drawing him deeper and deeper. She tumbled off the bed, knocking them both to the floor. Through it all, Cole kept moving. She pressed her knees against the floor and rose up on him, then slowly slid down to take all of him inside her. “You are amazing,” he said as he ground their hips together. Her eyes slid closed. “You are too.” ***** “Have you ever done this before?” She grit her teeth and glanced over her shoulder at Cole. He was lying behind her, his arousal gently pressing against her anus. “No.” Her voice was shaky even though she’d said she wanted to do it this way. “We don’t have to.” She shook her head. “No. I said I was going to try everything and I am.” She arched her ass against him forcing him a bit deeper. It hurt, but she kinda liked the pain. She was tight, so he wasn’t able to move much but she could tell from his moans that he was enjoying it. His pleasure sent a rush of heat to her loins. It still hurt, she wouldn’t lie, but it began to feel better when he reached forward and began fingering her. She got so caught up with what he was doing, she forgot all about the pain. “Is that better?” “Much,” she said and grabbed his wrist to guide his movements. He remained gentle with her, knowing that this was the first time she’d ever had anal sex. He pressed harder against her and she felt a warm rush of liquid fill her. The combination of his fingers and the warmth had her screaming out her release instantly. “That settles it,” she said weakly. “I am a complete and utter whore.” He laughed and gathered her against his chest. He pressed a kiss to her shoulder. “You enjoy sex. There’s nothing wrong with that.” She turned on her side to face him. “I enjoy sex with you.” His face filled with pride. “I’m proud I could be of service.”

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She pulled up the sheet and tucked it under her breasts.

Now came the hard part.

“When is

your flight?” He squinted at the clock on the bedside table. “Ten o’clock.” She pouted. “That’s only four hours away.” He whipped the sheet down and gave her a lascivious grin. “That’s why we can’t let our time go to waste.” She forget her concerns as Cole made love to her once more. The Davies men had stamina. That was for damn sure. It was nearly seven o’clock before they tumbled from the bed. Cole phoned room service to order breakfast while she took a quick shower.

She emerged dressed in a towel, so

when room service knocked, she ducked back into the bathroom while Cole answered the door. “It’s okay. You can come out now,” Cole called out once they were gone. She opened the door and stood there a moment gazing upon his masculine beauty. dressed in jeans and a t-shirt, but there was something undeniably sexy about him.

He was

His hair was

mussed and dark circles were under his eyes lending proof to that fact that they’d not gotten much sleep the night before. “I ordered pancakes. I hope that’s okay.” “Anything as long as it’s warm and edible,” she answered. He reached for the tray and lifted the lid. The pleasing aroma of pancakes wafted through the room and her stomach growled. She hoped he didn’t hear it. They sat on the edge of the bed and dug into their breakfast.

Cole finished first and reached for the newspaper that had been thoughtfully

provided with their tray. The paper crinkled as he opened it to the front page and scanned the headlines. He paused, then gave her an odd look.

She stuffed a piece of pancake into her mouth and

chewed before speaking. “What’s wrong?” He shook his head as if he couldn’t quite believe what he’d read. She began to grow worried when he wouldn’t answer. “Cole?” He tossed the paper aside and she glanced down. Oh, Good Lord! There was a full color picture of her and Griffin on the front page. It had to have been taken at the party the night before. They both were laughing and gazing into each other’s eyes.

She groaned when she read the title, Top Model

Dating Newcomer. This was very bad. “Cole, I can explain.” He wiped his mouth and stood. “Don’t bother.” She pushed aside the tray and reached for him. “It’s not what you think.” “That has to be the oldest line in the book,” he said as he moved out of her reach and bent down

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to put on his shoes. “Spare me the details, please.” How was she going to make him understand if he wouldn’t even listen to her? “Armand set us up on a blind date. I didn’t know about it until last night.” He finished tying his laces and glanced at her. His face was tight with tension. “I trusted you, Kerri. Why didn’t you tell me?” “I didn’t think it would matter.” He straightened and jammed his wallet into his back pocket. “Your face is plastered all over the newspaper with my brother and you didn’t think it would matter? Come on, Kerri! I’ve talked about you to my friends here. They will surely recognize your picture. How will it look to be the guy who fucked my brother’s girlfriend?” She drew back at his harsh words. “I am not Griffin’s girlfriend.” He snatched up the paper and pointed at her picture. “Look at the expression on your face. Can you honestly tell me that you don’t find him desirable?” She glanced away. “That’s not the point.” “Yes, it is. I am not going to make a fool of myself over a woman who prefers my brother.” She stood and stepped toe to toe with him. “If I preferred him, why would I come to you last night?” “I don’t know. Maybe one brother is not enough to satisfy you.” Her mouth dropped open. “That is meanest thing anyone has ever said to me.” He groaned and tunneled his fingers through his hair. “Kerri, all my life I’ve lived in Griffin’s shadow. Women always choose him over me. I thought you were different.” “I am different,” she exclaimed. “I don’t want Griffin.” “Yes, you do.

You may not think so now, but one day you will and I don’t want to be the

person standing in your way.” Cole’s hands dropped to his waist. “If you’d told me, things might have been different. But now, I don’t think I can trust you.” She felt the prickle of tears behind her eyelids.

By God, she would not cry in front of him.

She never cried. “I didn’t tell you because I knew this was how you would react. Nothing happened so I didn’t see the point.” Cole tilted his head. “Nothing?” Her cheeks flushed. “Well, he kissed me, but it didn’t mean anything.” Cole’s head dropped forward. “Did you enjoy it?” She wouldn’t lie to him. “Yes.”

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He stepped past her and reached for the door.

“Then there’s nothing left for me to say, is

there?” She rushed after him and touched his arm. “Don’t leave.” He glanced pointedly at his watch. “I have to be at the airport in thirty minutes. I don’t have time to spend arguing with you.” She dropped his arm as if burned. If he didn’t want to fight for her, she wasn’t going to waste her breath. “If that’s the way you feel.” “It is.” Her spine stiffened and she stepped away from him.

Her towel had slipped during their

argument, so she snatched it up to cover her breasts. “Have a nice flight.” He paused, looking as if he wanted to say something more. Instead, he merely shook his head. “Goodbye, Kerri.” And then he was gone. Out of her room and out of her life forever. ***** “You expect me to wear this?” Armand rubbed the back of his neck and had the grace to look ashamed. “Yes.” Kerri held up the tiny, transparent wisp of a dress. “You want me to put this on and allow myself to be dunked in water and then photographed?” Armand’s lips twitched the tiniest bit. “It’ll be sexy.” “It’ll be indecent,” Kerri replied. “You do realize that everyone will be able to see my tits, don’t you?” “We can airbrush your nipples for the magazine.” Kerri’s mouth dropped open. He said it so nonchalantly. “But what about the people at the shoot? I can’t appear half naked in front of them.” “Kerri, darling.” Armand reached for her hand and patted it reassuringly. “The people on set are there to do their job. They will barely notice your state of dress.” “Undress, you mean.” Kerri eyed the dress again critically. “At least Carter’s gay. If I have to drape my naked body over some guy, I prefer that he’s not heterosexual.” Armand began coughing. “Um, actually…” Kerri groaned. “What now?” “Griffin is taking Carter’s place today. Carter’s mother is sick and he had to rush back to New York.”

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Kerri reached behind her for a stool and plopped down. “Griffin? As in Griffin Davies?” Armand nodded. “You two seemed to hit it off last night so it seemed like a good idea.” Kerri was reminded of the front-page photo spread and recalled seeing Armand talking to the reporters. “You wouldn’t be trying your hand at matchmaking, would you?” “Who? Me?” Armand pointed his finger at himself. “Of course not. I just recognize an opportunity when I see one.” “There’s something you should know,” Kerri said. She laced her fingers together. She couldn’t believe she was about to tell him this. “But Griffin and I…” “Are good friends.” Kerri looked up, her gaze narrowing on Griffin who was lounging in the doorway. “That’s not what I was about to say.” Griffin sent her a warning look. His frown slid into an easy smile when Armand twisted to look at him. “She doesn’t like to admit that she considers me a friend.” “That’s because I don’t.” Griffin laughed and came to her side. His eyes ordered her to play along. “Yes, you do.” “I thought you two looked a mite familiar out on the dance floor last night,” Armand remarked. “Oh, for the love of God,” Kerri exclaimed. “All we’ve done is fu…” Griffin placed his hand over her mouth. “Fought. She tries to act like she detests me, but in reality she adores me.” He stared down at her. “Isn’t that right, darling?” Kerri’s teeth nipped at the inside of his palm. She had no idea what he was doing, but she would play along. “Yes.” She gave Armand a sickly sweet smile. “He thinks he’s God’s gift to women. It’s up to me to bring him down a peg or two.” One of the assistant photographers knocked on the door. “Armand, Javier needs you on set.” Armand rushed off, leaving Griffin and Kerri alone. She turned on him immediately. “What in the hell are you doing?” Griffin rested his ass against her dressing table. Their knees bumped as she swung to face him. “Saving your career.” “What?” She gaped at him. Griffin unfolded himself and towered over her. “If Armand knew what had happened between us, he would’ve pulled this shoot. You can’t risk that happening so early in your career. And don’t think that everyone of those people out there wouldn’t find out the reason, because they would. Could you imagine the bad press we would get then?”

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“It would be better than the front-page story I saw today,” Kerri replied. “How could you let them think we were dating?” “Armand asked me to do him a favor. He thinks dating me will help launch you.” “But I’m not dating you,” Kerri answered. “You could be.” He reached for her hand and brought it to his lips. “I like you, Kerri.” His lips curved into a smile. “Even though you could be the most pigheaded woman I’ve ever met.” “We’re a good match then because you’re the most bullheaded man I’ve ever met.” He let go of her hand. “Do you think we can get along for the duration of this shoot?” She looked at him, wanting to say no, but her desire to be a successful model finally won out. “I guess, but don’t try anymore funny business.” “Funny business?” Griffin bent down and pressed his lips to her cheek. “I wouldn’t dream of it.” And while she was still reeling from his brief kiss,

he turned on his heel and strode from the

room. Kerri cursed under her breath for a full minute. Damn, how could she still be attracted to him? It was Cole she wanted, wasn’t it? It seemed her mind and her body were sending mixed signals. The same assistant who’d fetched Armand earlier popped back in. “Javier is ready for you, Kerri.” Kerri let out a small sound and jumped to her feet. As quickly as she could, she stripped out of her street clothes and pulled on the miserable excuse for a dress. She turned to the mirror and eyed herself critically. Her white, lacy panties were clearly visible and it wouldn’t take much for her breasts to pop out of the top. Did Armand truly believe plus-sized women would wear this? She supposed he knew fashion better than her, but this stretched the bounds of reality just a bit. It looked more like a nightie than an outfit. She arrived on the set with a robe tightly belted around her waist. Armand came rushing forward. “Did the dress not fit?” Kerri kept her hands tightly clutched to the top of her robe. “It fit, but it’s still not decent.” Armand tsked and brushed her hands away. “Let me see.” She dropped the robe and squeezed her eyes shut. “If you laugh, I am leaving.” “No one’s laughing, Kerri.” Armand grabbed her hand and led her to the man-made body of water in front of the Venetian. She stumbled when she noticed a gondola. He hadn’t said anything about boats. “I’m not getting in that thing.”

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Armand pushed her forward, gently but determinedly. “It’s only a couple feet of water, Kerri. You won’t drown.” “No, but I might get seasick.” Armand gave her a stern look. “There are no waves. Now get in.” Kerri stepped into the gondola, squealing when it rocked. She braced herself against the railing and dropped ungracefully to the padded seat. “For the record, I hate boats.” “Point taken,” Armand said with a small smile. “Just get through this afternoon and I promise you no more boats.” Griffin appeared. He looked unbearably sexy in a sheer white shirt and khakis. He hopped lightly into the gondola, somehow managing to keep his balance when it shifted to one side. Kerri let out a shriek and clutched at the sides of the gondola. “What are you trying to do? Dump us all out in the water?” Griffin plopped down beside her and grinned unrepentantly. “No, but that’s an interesting idea.” He began to rock from side to side. She dug her fingernails into his upper arm. “Stop! You’re making me dizzy.” “Oh, am I?” Griffin winked broadly at her. “I don’t mean dizzy in a good way,” she continued. “So unless you want my lunch all over your shirt, stop rocking.” Griffin quit moving and ran his gaze over her dress. “Are you aware that your dress is seethrough?” She clamped her arms over her breasts and glared at him. “Yes, I am. Quit ogling me.” She knew it was ridiculous to be embarrassed since he’d already seen her naked, but in the light of day it was something entirely different. Armand clapped to get their attention. “Okay, guys. Let’s get started. I want you two to act like you are in love. Griffin put your arm around Kerri.” “Gladly,” Griffin said and slid close to her. She stiffened as his fingers brushed the side of her breast. “Excellent,” Armand praised. “Now Kerri look at Griffin as if you’ve found the man of your dreams.” She turned her face to his and tried to mimic the moonstruck expressions she’d seen on sappy old love stories. Griffin stared down at her, amusement still lingering in his eyes. He tickled the side of her neck and she lurched away from him. Unfortunately, her abrupt motion sent her sprawling against the

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railing. The shift in balance caused Griffin to land against her. She only had time for a small gasp before they both fell overboard. Griffin’s arm immediately clamped about her waist and he hauled them both to the surface. She came up spluttering. “You did that on purpose!” She brushed her hair out of her eyes and glared at Griffin. He still had his arm around her and their faces were mere inches apart. “No, it was an accident.” Kerri heard the click of a camera and turned to see they were being photographed. “I look like a drowned rat.” “You look beautiful,” Griffin whispered. “Now look at me like you love me.” She was dying to argue, but she did have a job to do. If the photographer wanted to take pictures of them soaking wet, so be it. She turned her face up to Griffin and relaxed her tense expression. For an indefinite amount of time, they stood there staring at each other. Their legs brushed against each other and with every breath she took, her breasts rubbed against his chest. It was an unbearable position to be in. If asked she would deny it, but she began to get a little turned on. “Are you cold?” Griffin asked after several minutes of silence. “No.” Kerri belatedly realized that her nipples were hard and Griffin had just tricked her into admitting that she was still attracted to him. “Maybe a little cold,” she quickly amended. “Liar,” Griffin leaned down and nuzzled her neck. Yes, she was but she would be damned before she told him otherwise. She clenched her teeth. “Just be quiet.” “Yes, ma’am,” Griffin said and seemed content to just gaze into her eyes. Water beaded on her forehead and ran down her face. Griffin’s hand slid up to cup her cheeks and he used his thumbs to wipe away the drops of water clinging to her eyelashes. He leaned in like he was about to kiss her. She found herself swaying forward, leaning into the kiss, lips parting just the tiniest bit. The click of the camera jolted her back to reality. Her eyes, which she had not realized she’d closed, popped open. “Perfect,” Armand called out. “That should about do it.” Kerri waded through the water and stood there looking up at the dock, wondering how the hell she was going to get out. It was too tall for her to climb and she didn’t have the upper body strength needed to haul herself out. Before she could call for a ladder, she felt hands around her waist and she was boosted out of the water. She glanced down at Griffin, amazed by his show of strength. He easily climbed up beside her and reached for the towels that were handed to them.

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“That was fun,” he said as he shook his damp head, sending droplets of water flying everywhere. He tossed her a towel, which she easily caught and held over her breasts. “In a weird way, it was.” She admitted. “You did good today.” She laughed. “Aside from dumping us into the water, that is.” “Ah! So you do admit it was your fault?” Griffin asked. “No. It was your fault for tickling me.” “It was an accident.” “Uh huh.” She heard the drone of an airplane overhead and she glanced up. She’d completely forgotten about Cole during the shoot. Feeling guilty and not exactly sure why, she wrapped the towel around her body. “I’d better go change.” Griffin caught her hand before she could move away. “Have dinner with me tonight.” “I can’t.” “You can’t or you won’t?” She couldn’t bring herself to meet his gaze. “I can’t,” she said again and hurried away before he changed her mind.

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Chapter Seven

“You look like hell.” Kerri dropped her luggage onto the floor of the apartment and gave Jasmine a thin smile. “Thanks for the uplifting comments.” Jasmine shrugged. “It’s the truth.” She came forward and gave Kerri a quick hug. “How was your shoot?” “It was fine,” Kerri answered.

If you didn’t count the two days she’d spent moping for Cole.

She’d hoped he would have called her, but so far her cell phone hadn’t rung. She’d looked so depressed that even Armand had remarked on it. It was a good thing the photographer liked her sad face, else she probably would have found herself unemployed and heartbroken. Jasmine ushered her to the couch and waited for her to sit down. She hopped from one foot to another excitedly. “You’ll never guess who just called here looking for you.” Kerri could guess.

For the past couple of days, Griffin had hounded her in Vegas.

She’d

refused to see him, but he hadn’t given up yet. If only Cole was so persistent. “Who?” “Griffin Davies,” Jasmine said in a rush. “He wants to ask you out.” Kerri lifted her forefinger and made a circle. “Whoopee,” she muttered. Jasmine frowned, then plopped onto the couch beside her. “Did I miss something?” Suddenly Kerri found herself pouring out the sordid story in its entirety. She left nothing out. When she was finished, Jasmine gaped at her. “Griffin was in Vegas and you slept with his brother?” “Yes,” Kerri nodded shamefaced. “I know you probably think I have no morals, but if you’d met Cole you would understand. He’s such a sweet guy, but now he thinks I’m dating Griffin.” “Then why aren’t you?” “Why aren’t I what?” Kerri asked. “Dating Griffin.” Jasmine answered. “I just got through telling you it was Cole I wanted. Why would I date Griffin?” Jasmine’s eyes glinted. “Pretend to date Griffin like Armand suggested. You would get a ton of exposure and Cole will become so jealous he won’t be able to see straight.” Kerri opened her mouth to argue, but Jasmine held up a hand. “Wait a moment. ” She stood and

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walked to the counter. She returned with an armload of magazines and newspapers. She dumped them into Kerri’s lap without ceremony. “You’re a smash. Almost overnight, you’ve become the girl everyone’s dying to know.” Kerri glanced at the papers in her lap. All of them had pictures of her and Griffin. She scanned one article after another, amazed at the buzz being generated for the Look of Love Campaign.

The

reporters had even interviewed Griffin, who went on record describing their burgeoning relationship. He’d said they’d met in New York and then spent time together in Vegas. He stuck to the “just friends” excuse, but none of the reporters seemed to believe his denials. “I can’t use Griffin to further my career,” Kerri argued. It was tempting, but she could never stoop so low. Jasmine rolled her eyes. “It’s not like he isn’t getting something out of the deal. He gets to be seen with the newest “It” girl. It’s bound to boost his popularity too.” Kerri didn’t see where his popularity needed any boosting. He was already known world-wide while she was just a nobody. “I am not going to do it, Jasmine. ” “It’s a good idea,” Jasmine argued. “No, it’s not. It’s a stupid idea,” Kerri said. “A very stupid idea” Jasmine reached for the magazines in Kerri’s lap and pointed at the cover of one of them. “In one week, you’ve given D’Sandro more exposure than it’s had in years. You can’t turn your back on that. If you won’t do it for yourself, do it for the company.” Kerri shoved the papers aside.

Jasmine had a point.

Her romance with Cole was already

doomed. She shouldn’t let her career go to waste too. Finally she sighed. “I’ll think about it.” “Excellent,” Jasmine said and popped to her feet. She walked to the kitchen and poured a cup of coffee. She returned to the living room. “I knew you would agree.” “I haven’t yet,” Kerri pointed out. “A mere technicality.” Jasmine blew on her coffee before taking a sip. “By the way, Griffin’s coming over.” Kerri leapt to her feet. “Here?” Jasmine glanced at her watch and nodded. “He should be here any moment now.” The doorbell rang and Jasmine smiled brightly.

“That’s probably him.” She set her coffee on

the table and went to answer the door. Kerri chased after her and grabbed her by the back of her shirt. “I can’t see Griffin right now! I’m a mess.” Jasmine gave her a pointed look. “You don’t like him. What’s it matter?”

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Kerri glanced at herself in the mirror. Her hair was frizzy and she was dressed in jogging pants and a sweatshirt.

There was no way she was greeting Griffin looking like a hobo.

“I’m going to

change.” She escaped to her room before Jasmine could answer.

She pulled off her clothes and threw

them on the floor. She pulled on a pair of jeans and a t-shirt and hurriedly brushed her hair. She could hear voices coming from the living room and recognized Griffin’s deep baritone instantly. What was Jasmine thinking? This was no time for her roommate to play matchmaker. Worried that she might say something embarrassing, Kerri went to join them. Griffin was sitting on the couch. He glanced up when she entered the room and his eyes lit with a smile. “Hello.” She mumbled a greeting and chose to sit by Jasmine. As soon as she did, Jasmine jumped to her feet. “I’m off for the gym. You two have a nice visit.” She sent Kerri a meaningful look and left quickly. After Jasmine was gone, Kerri twiddled her thumbs and waited for Griffin to speak.

He slid

over next to her and put an arm behind her on the couch. “I missed you.” She shook her head in disbelief. Why was he interested in her? They had no connection, no similar interests. They’d had one night of amazing sex, that was all. Hell, she doubted he even knew her last name! “No, you didn’t.” He appeared hurt by her words. “Yes, I did. ” He began playing with her hair. “You don’t even know me,” she argued and reached up to stop him. “I know enough,” he said. His hand dropped back to the couch. His eyes moved to the pile of magazines on the table and he tilted his chin in their direction. “Are you upset because of what the media is saying about us?” “Not really,” she lied. “It’s good publicity.” “I hadn’t thought of it that way. You’re probably right. It’s not often that I’m seen with a good girl.” She laughed at his thoughtful expression. “I meant good publicity for me.” “Oh,” he said. “That was probably Armand’s intention when he set us up.” She frowned. “I cannot believe my boss is pimping me out just to gain attention for his new campaign.” “He’s very cunning.” Griffin’s hand moved to her shoulder and he toyed with the neckline of her t-shirt. “I’m happy he decided to use me.”

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Speaking of using, she should probably broach Jasmine’s idea.

It was very coldhearted, but

Griffin was a businessman in a sense. He should be able to recognize the good points of such a plan. “Jasmine thinks we should pretend to date.” “Sounds like a good idea to me.” She wished he would stop touching her. It was so much easier to think when a handsome man did not have his hands on her. “You don’t understand.” She turned to face him fully. “She thinks we should pretend to date just to continue getting exposure.” His smiled faded slightly. “What do you think about it?” She shrugged. “It’s a reasonable idea.” He sat back and stared at her for a couple of seconds.

His blue eyes seemed to burn into her.

“You don’t care for me at all, do you?” She hated to hurt his feelings, but it was best to outline her plan before anyone ended up hurt. “I like you, Griffin. But I think it’s best we pursue a relationship from a business standpoint.” Why was he hounding her about this anyway? Wasn’t he supposed to be getting back with his girlfriend? At least, that was what his conversation with Cole the other night seemed to be referring to. “I think we should do it.” “If I agree to this, I have to know something first. Is there someone else?” “I hardly see how that matters.” “Just answer the question, Kerri,” Griffin demanded. “Yes, there is someone else,” Kerri admitted. “But it’ll never work.” She left it at that. There was no need to tell him about Cole. “Like you and I?” Griffin asked. “Exactly.” But for two totally different reasons, she silently added. Griffin crossed his arms. “I know I’m going to regret this, but I’ll do it. I’ll pretend to be your boyfriend. I do have one condition though.” “And that is?” “If you change your mind and want to make this relationship real, let me know.” She admired his persistence, even if it was misplaced. “I will.” “So how are we going to do this thing? Do we just let ourselves be seen around town or what?” Now that he’d agreed, he seemed anxious to make plans. She hadn’t thought about particulars since she’d doubted he would agree. “A few dinner dates should suffice.” He lifted an eyebrow. “Au contraire, my dear. If we’re going to do this, we have to make them

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believe we’re falling in love. ” Love was not something she wanted to discuss right then.

Not that she was naïve enough to

think she was in love with Cole, but talking about it with Griffin seemed wrong somehow. She laughed nervously.

“I don’t think the media will have difficulty thinking I’m in love with you.

Half of the

female population would probably name you the sexiest man alive.” He gave her a cocky grin. “More like two-thirds, but who’s counting?” “Ha, a little conceited are we?” He shrugged.

“Not really.

A survey was conducted earlier this year and I seem to be the

current boy toy in most women’s fantasies.” She didn’t doubt what he was saying. He was extremely wealthy and good looking. If she’d never met Cole, she might still be lusting after him herself. Well, if she were honest, a little lust still lingered in her heart for Griffin, but she could never act on that impulse again. She already felt guilty enough for sleeping with both brothers. To make the mistake a third time would be idiotic. Griffin glanced at his Rolex and made a face. “Damn, it’s almost five.” “Do you need to be somewhere?” Kerri asked. “I’m right where I need to be,” he said with a slow wink. Cole, remember Cole, she chastised herself as chills ran across her skin.

How was she ever

going to survive dating Griffin when she still felt an uncontrollable urge to be with him? “Where do you really need to be?” He rubbed the back of his neck and grimaced.

“It’s a charity thing I agreed to months ago.”

“Charity? How sweet.” He lowered his hand and gave her an amused look. “You seem surprised that I would attend a charity function.” “I am a little,” she admitted. “It doesn’t seem to go with your playboy party ways.

What

charity is it for?” “To help raise money for models in desperate need of a boob job.” He grinned at her shocked look.. “Just kidding.. It’s for an after-school program for inner city kids.” “I’m impressed. You’re much nicer than people make you out to be.” He brushed aside her compliment. “I just want to give back to the community.” He glanced at his watch again. “I really should get going.” She stood and waited while he did the same. really appreciate it.”

“Thank you for agreeing to help me, Griffin. I

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He stepped closer and bent forward until their lips were mere inches apart. “Don’t thank me yet. I haven’t done anything.” His breath whispered across her lips, making her shiver with delight. She was leaning into him when he suddenly pulled away. “I’ll call you tomorrow.” She was surprised he hadn’t kissed her.

She straightened and tried to pretend like she hadn’t

just responded to him. “Let me give you my number.” “Don’t worry. Jasmine gave it to me already.” “Oh,” Kerri said. She made a mental note to have a conversation with her roommate about privacy. “I’ll talk to you later then.” He headed for the door, then turned around at the last moment.

“Do you have any plans for

tomorrow night?” She shook her head. “No. Why?” “Because it’ll be a good time for our first date.” He left and she stared at the door long after he was gone. She had a sinking feeling that she’d just agreed to more than she could handle. ***** “How did you know I like baseball?” Griffin, his face shielded by a Yankees ball cap, gave a rueful grin. “Just a lucky guess.” She sent him a blatantly disbelieving look. “Okay, so I didn’t know,” he admitted sheepishly. “But I really hoped.” Kerri tilted her head back and studied the brick façade of Yankee stadium. “I’ve always dreamed of coming here. This is going to be so awesome!” Griffin gave a gentle tug on her ponytail. “Who are you rooting for?” “Who’s playing?” “We’re playing the Red Sox.” “Then the Yankees, of course,” Kerri answered. “That’s my girl.” Griffin slid his arm around her shoulder as he gave their tickets to the man at the gate. They fought their way through the crowd, but Griffin made her stop at a booth so he could purchase her a Yankees cap. “Now you’re an official New Yorker,” he said as he plopped the cap on her head. She tugged her ponytail through the hole in the back of the cap and grinned. “How does it look?”

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“Very incognito,” Griffin answered. “Excuse me. Aren’t you a model?” Kerri turned at the sound of a woman’s voice and glanced back at Griffin with a wide-eyed look of mock innocence. So much for incognito. “Well, honey? The nice lady asked you a question.” Griffin pinched her lightly on the hip and reached past her to shake the lady’s hand. “Yes, I am.” The lady snapped her fingers. “You did the underwear ad, didn’t you? The one with the black briefs.” Griffin seemed a little embarrassed. “In my younger days, yes.” “I thought that was you,” the lady said. “Hey, Doris. Come over here. There’s someone I want you to meet.” A second lady hurried to join them. Only Kerri heard the small groan Griffin made as the crowd continued to grow. After several minutes, he bent down to whisper in her ear. “We’d better get going before this turns into a mob scene.” They managed to escape with a little help from security and were escorted to their seats along the first base line. Once they were settled, Kerri began laughing. “What’s so funny?” Griffin propped his long legs on the bench in front of them and scooted down in his seat. “You are,” Kerri answered.

“You should’ve seen the look on your face when you were

approached by those women.” “One of them grabbed my ass,” he said. Kerri choked on a gasp. “Who?” “The old lady with the cane.” “No, she didn’t!” Kerri covered her mouth with one hand, but a giggle still escaped. “I’m sorry. It’s not funny.” She finally gave up the fight and started laughing in earnest. “Who am I kidding? It’s funny as hell.” “We’ll see who’s laughing the first time you get mobbed.” “That’ll never happen,” Kerri said with an emphatic shake of her head. “Why do you say that?” Griffin turned his head to face her. “You’re a model now.” “But I’m not in the same league as you,” she explained. “I model for D’Sandro.” “So?” Griffin asked. “You’re still a model. You’ll be recognized. And as pretty as you are, you’d attract attention even if you weren’t a model.” Pretty? Griffin thought she was pretty. She pushed away the pleasure she felt from his

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compliment and glanced toward the outfield where the players where beginning to warm up. “The game is about to start.” Griffin shielded his eyes from the sun and looked toward the scoreboard where the countdown to game time had begun. “In just a few minutes.” After the game started, Kerri began to enjoy herself immensely. Baseball had always been her favorite sport and she’d gone to many Braves games while in Atlanta. Watching the Yankees play was exciting. She’d watched their games on television and hoped someday to see it in person. In the bottom of the sixth inning, she turned to Griffin to thank him for bringing her. She opened her mouth to speak, but she paused when she noticed he was looking at her with a strange expression. “What is it?” Her hands automatically moved to her face. “Am I getting burned?” “No.” He shook his head and leaned in close to whisper in her ear. “Look straight ahead.” She did as he asked. All she saw were a couple of reporters and film crews. “Yes. And?” “Don’t be mad,” he said a second before he bent his head and pressed his lips to hers. When he pulled back, he gave her a crooked smile. “Did they see us?” She gazed at him in bemusement. “I have no idea.” Griffin settled back in his seat and tugged his cap low. “I guess that means we’ll just have to keep trying until they notice.” Kerri’s stomach flipped. An afternoon of kissing Griffin? Even though she was only pretending to date him, she couldn’t think of a better way to spend her time. Except, of course, an afternoon with his brother. ***** “Get dressed. We’re going out.” Kerri moaned and pulled the sheet over her head. “I’m sleeping.” Jasmine tossed the covers aside and poked her in the side. “It’s nearly noon. Wake up already. I’ve got something to show you.” “It’d better be important,” Kerri warned as she climbed out of bed and stumbled to her closet. She pulled on the first thing she found, an old pair of jeans and her Braves t-shirt. “You’ll thank me for it, trust me,” Jasmine said as she disappeared down the hallway.

Her

voice came floating back to Kerri. “You and Griffin had a late night again. Anything interesting to report?” “No,” Kerri called back.

For two weeks, she and Griffin had been pretending to date.

been a gentleman, not trying to get her to sleep with him even though she knew he wanted to.

He’d The

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media was filled with reports of their dinner dates and nights spent at the Caliente Club. They’d made headlines when they’d appeared together at a Covington and Company party a couple of days ago. Jasmine popped her head back into the room. “I’ve been thinking. You and Griffin have been dating for two weeks now. I think it’s time for some PDA’s.” “PDA’s?” Kerri asked as she stuffed her feet into a pair of ratty tennis shoes and laced them up. “Public displays of affection.” Jasmine came forward and snatched Kerri’s ball cap from her fingers. “Don’t wear that.” Kerri reached for her cap. “I like it.” She succeeded in grabbing back her cap and jammed it onto her head.

“And thank you for your advice, but Griffin and I don’t need to act any more

affectionate than we already do.” Jasmine tried once again to steal her cap. “You two don’t even touch. It is damned odd for a dating couple to not touch once in a while.” “That’s because we are not dating,” Kerri stressed. “In the eyes of the media, you are. ” Jasmine gave up the fight and let Kerri keep her cap. “I’m not saying you have to play tonsil hockey at every available moment, but a peck now and again should not be too difficult to manage. You haven’t touched once since you went to see the Yankees.” Easy for her to say.

Jasmine was not the one who constantly fought her attraction to Griffin.

She was afraid if they continued to kiss, she would get too carried away. So after their brief kisses at the baseball game, she’d refused to allow him to kiss her again. “I hope you didn’t wake me up just to tell me this.” Jasmine snapped her fingers. “Oh, right! I almost forgot. You won’t believe it.” “What?” Jasmine shook her head. “Just trust me. You have to see this.” Twenty minutes later, Kerri found herself in the middle of Times Square looking up at a giant billboard. “Oh my god!” “I told you,” Jasmine said excitedly.

“Isn’t it amazing? D’Sandro’s has never scored a

billboard in Times Squares before. Now we have, thanks to you.” “That’s me up there,” Kerri whispered in awe. She gazed at the picture of her and Griffin that had been shot in Vegas. It showed him with his hands cupping her cheeks and gazing down at her upturned face like he was about to kiss her. She remembered the moment the picture had been snapped. When she’d thought he was about to kiss her.

Even though it had been a private moment, the

photograph had turned out very sexy. Griffin’s shirt was plastered to his chest while her cleavage was

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pressed against his arm. Jasmine fanned herself and sighed dramatically. “So hot. Now that is what I want to see more of.” She made a sweeping gesture toward the billboard. “What?” Kerri teased. “Me, half nude and dripping wet?” “No, silly.” Jasmine said and thumped her head. “You half nude with Griffin.” Kerri grinned even bigger. “Pervert.” “Yes, I am.” Jasmine stuck out her tongue. “I’m living vicariously through you anyway, so it might as well be worth it.” She quickly became the center of attention when a group of tourists recognized her as the girl on the billboard. Jasmine smiled indulgently when a woman asked for Kerri’s autograph. “You’re famous,” Jasmine said, tongue in cheek. “Hardly,” Kerri scoffed as she gave the woman an autograph. She was in the middle of Times Square signing autographs. It was beyond a dream come true, it was like something out of a fairy tale. Her cell phone began ringing. She flipped it open and held it to her ear. Before she could even say hello, Lisa started talking. “Your face is in Times Square.” “I know,” Kerri said, unable to keep the tremor from her voice. “I’m standing here looking at it now. ” “This is so unbelievable,” Lisa said. “First you start dating Griffin Davies and now you are well on your way to becoming a household name.” “I doubt that,” Kerri laughed. “How did you find out about the billboard anyway? I thought you were in London.” “I just got back and saw it from the taxi,” Lisa answered. “What are you doing tonight? We should go out and celebrate. Drinks on me.” Kerri winced. “I can’t. I have to do a show tonight, but you can come if you want. Do you want me to put your name on the list?” “Damn right you’d better. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” After she got off the phone, Kerri spent a couple more minutes staring at the billboard. Jasmine waited patiently by her side until she was ready to go. She virtually floated on air the entire way home. When they arrived at their apartment, Kerri was surprised to see Griffin waiting outside their door. He held a bottle of champagne in one hand and a bouquet of roses in the other. “Congratulations, Kerri.”

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Jasmine nudged her and winked. “I think he’s smitten with you.” “Ssh,” Kerri warned and went to meet Griffin. “Thank you.” He gave her a small peck on the cheek, which caused Jasmine to dissolve into a fit of giggles. “Now that is more like it, but next time I want to see a little more tongue action.” Kerri turned beet red, while Griffin shared an amused look with Jasmine. “I try, but she won’t let me.” “Shame on you,” Jasmine said to Kerri as she unlocked the door and stepped back to let the two of them pass. She grabbed the champagne from Griffin’s hand and headed to the kitchen to pour them all a glass. She returned and handed them over. “To Kerri.” “To Kerri,” Griffin echoed and they clinked their glasses together. The bubbles tickled her nose as she took a sip. Griffin put his arm around her and gave her a tight squeeze. “I’m proud of you, Slugger.” “Slugger?” Jasmine looked intrigued at his use of the nickname he’d given her when he’d learned of her love for baseball. Jasmine slanted her eyes in Kerri’s direction. “Been hitting any home runs lately?” “Not recently,” Kerri quipped. “We could change that if you want,” Griffin said with a wicked glint in his eyes. “Behave you two.” Kerri drained her glass and moved to the couch. Griffin claimed the seat next to her, leaving Jasmine the loveseat. She was uncomfortably aware of his nearness. When she breathed, she could smell his familiar cologne. His arm brushed against her neck as he put it behind her on the couch. Kerri could feel the curiosity pouring out of Jasmine and said a quick prayer that her roommate would not embarrass her. “So Griff, how’s your show going?” Griffin turned his attention to Jasmine and began talking about the problems he’d been having on set with his co-star, Anna. The blonde woman had not given up her pursuit of Griffin even though he’d politely told her he was dating someone. She’d even shown up at the Covington and Company party and hounded them all night. Griffin turned to Kerri. “If she shows up tonight, don’t you dare leave me alone with her again.” Kerri covered her lips with one hand to hide a smile. She’d purposefully left them alone at the party and Griffin later told her that she’d nearly attacked him in the coat closet. She lowered her hand and reached over to pat his shoulder. “Don’t worry. I’ll protect you.” “You’d better. It’s your fault she’s after me anyway.”

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“Why is it my fault?” “She wouldn’t be interested in me if she didn’t think I was taken,” Griffin explained. “That’s the kind of girl she is.” “Ah!” Jasmine said and tapped her temple with one finger. “I understand. So you’re using Kerri to get Anna in bed.” Kerri’s heart sank. Was that true? She turned to Griffin with a questioning expression. He held up his hands to ward her off. “No, no. Categorically untrue.” “Seems kinda fishy to me,” Jasmine continued with a laugh. Griffin pointed his finger at Jasmine. “You are a troublemaker.” He stood and reached down to grab Kerri’s wrist. “Let’s go get some ice cream before she succeeds in breaking us up.” “How can I break something that isn’t together?” Jasmine asked pointedly. Griffin turned to her, but he had no immediate reply. Kerri took pity on him and answered before he could. “Jasmine, he’s just playing a role.” “Is he?” Jasmine returned. “Something tells me that you two care more than you want to admit.” “You’re being ridiculous,” Kerri said and virtually towed Griffin out of the apartment. Once they were in the hall, she spoke. “I’m sorry. She’s just being Jasmine.” “It’s alright,” Griffin said with a dismissive wave of his hand. “I used to coming under fire. Now, how about that ice cream?” Kerri lightly punched his arm. “You know I can’t have ice cream. I have a show tonight.” Griffin leaned in close and met her eyes. “Just think of it. Chocolate swirls and vanilla chunks. Maybe even strawberries.” Kerri licked her lips without meaning to. “You’re the devil.” “And you’re coming with me,” he said and towed her toward the stairs. “I’ll make you a deal. We’ll split a sundae. What will one little taste hurt?” Exactly. What would one little taste hurt? Especially when the thing she wanted to taste the most was his kiss.

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Chapter Eight

“Are you ready for your first runway show?” Kerri glanced over at Jasmine, who was still having her make-up done, and shook her head nervously. “I want to throw up.” Jasmine closed her eyes so the make-up artist could do her eyelids. “Just remember what I told you.” Kerri’s fingers toyed with the fringe on her dress.

“Relax, take deep breaths, and try not to

smile.” “Exactly,” Jasmine said. “Don’t worry. You’ll do fine.” Kerri glanced into the mirror and barely recognized herself. Her face was all shimmery and her hair was teased beyond belief. She looked like someone who should be in an eighties’ video, complete with big hair and fringe. “I don’t think I can do this.” “Yes, you can.” Jasmine cracked open one eye to glance at Kerri.

What she saw must’ve

concerned her because she shooed away the make-up artist and came to Kerri’s side.

“Everyone is

nervous their first time. It’s completely understandable, but you’ve got to get a hold of yourself. ” Kerri grabbed Jasmine’s hand in a death grip and her eyes widened. “No, I really can’t do this.” She clamped a hand around her stomach. “Oh God, I think I’m gonna be sick.” Jasmine reacted instantly.

She led Kerri to a chair, forced her into it, and rushed out of the

room. Within minutes, she returned with Griffin. “What’s going on?” Jasmine motioned to Kerri, who was muttering to herself. “She’s freaking out.” Griffin took one look at her and crouched on his knees before her.

“Kerri, it’s going to be

alright. ” His hand touched her face, but he was careful not to muss her make-up. “Look at me.” She did as he asked, touched by the genuine concern on his face.

He’d been so sweet to her.

Why did he put up with her? She was only using him, yet he didn’t seem to mind. Griffin’s eyes bored into her. “You can do this, Kerri. We’re all rooting for you. Lisa’s in the audience and she can’t wait to see you.” He tilted his chin toward Jasmine, who was standing over his shoulder gazing at her anxiously.

“Jasmine will be right there with you.” His hand cupped her cheek

and he turned her eyes back to his. “And I will be in the front row, clapping and cheering the loudest.

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I’ll probably get thrown out of here for disruptive behavior.” She put her hand on his bicep and squeezed tightly. “Don’t leave me.” She was scheduled to be third on stage.

They were showcasing clothing from the Look of Love campaign and the theme of

couples had been carried over into the entire show. Carter was joining her on stage while Jasmine had been paired with a Bolivian model. Griffin stood and his hand fell away from her. “I have to get back to my seat. Everything will be alright, Kerri. Trust me.” Twenty minutes later, she was standing at the side of the stage waiting for her and Carter’s introduction. She kept glancing to the other side, growing more anxious by the minute as Carter refused to show. Where was he? She was the one who was scared to death. He should be an old pro by now. At the very last moment, right before their names were called, Kerri heard a commotion on the other side of the stage. Her eyes widened as she took in the vision before her. It was Griffin. His hair was spiked into a punk style and he was wearing the clothing meant for Carter. “What is he doing?” Jasmine, who was just coming off stage, heard her and smiled mischievously. “It would appear that he is playing knight in shining armor to your damsel in distress.” Kerri’s heart clenched at the kind gesture. He must’ve found Carter and convinced him to let him take his place. How he’d gotten ready in time, she’d never understand. Their names were called and she came forward to take his hand, completely forgetting her previous fears.

They turned

simultaneously, their matching stride taking them to the end of the runway and back. Griffin earned catcalls from the audience when he dipped her over one arm and pressed his lips to hers. It was a ploy designed by Armand, yet when she and Carter had practiced it that morning, the touch of his lips had not caused her entire body to burn with desire.

Her hands threaded through

Griffin’s spiky hair as his tongue boldly thrust into her mouth and stoked her upper palate. When they parted, he did not immediately straighten.

Time seemed to lengthen as they stared into each other’s

eyes. Glitter from her face clung to his eyelashes and matched the sparkle in his eyes.

It was then that

Kerri realized the inevitable. She was falling in love with the wrong brother. “You’re smiling,” Griffin whispered to her. She nodded, not caring that she was breaking a cardinal rule. “So are you.” He set her back on her feet, the audience tittering when her fingers refused to come free of his highly moussed hair. He winced as she pulled her hands away. “Sorry,” she murmured.

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“It’s alright. ” He took her arm and began leading her off stage. Their exit was marked with thunderous applause from the audience. Backstage, Jasmine watched them with a starry look in her eyes. She clasped her hand to her bosom and sighed enviously. “That was so romantic.” Kerri’s face flamed. She’d just kissed Griffin in front of New York’s entire fashion industry. If anyone had doubted that they were dating, they wouldn’t do so now. Briefly she wondered if Cole had heard the rumors, then pushed away the thought of him.

He was lost to her, especially now. The

thought did not pain her as much as it should. After the show wrapped, they headed for the after party. She, Griffin, Jasmine and Lisa piled into a limo, along with two male models they’d roped into joining them. Lisa sat with the Bolivian model and seemed completely entranced by his accent and dark good looks. Jasmine was quietly talking with Brett, a model from California, whom she’d been friends with for years. Unnoticed by the others, she and Griffin held hands and just looked at one another. The passing streetlights highlighted his cheekbones and reflected the glitter still stuck to his face.

She leaned her

head against his shoulder. “Why did you do it?” He lifted their linked hands to his lips and pressed a kiss against her knuckles.

“You needed

me.” She squeezed his hand. “Thank you. You probably saved my career.” “No. You did that on your own. I was just there to help out.” At the party, a group of well-wishers quickly surrounded them. Armand rushed to Kerri’s side with outstretched arms. “Darling, you were magnificent.” He kissed both her cheeks and did the same to Jasmine. “And you, my girl, were as lovely as always.” He turned to Griffin with a bright smile. “Pure genius, Griffin. You never cease to amaze me.” Griffin put an arm around Kerri’s shoulder and hugged her. “It was actually Kerri’s idea. I just did as I was told.” She opened her mouth to argue, but Griffin stopped her by placing a quick kiss on her lips. Armand gazed upon her with new admiration. “We are lucky to have her. She’s been such a boost to this company.” “And to my life,” Griffin smoothly inserted. The females in the group sighed, while the males rolled their eyes. “I’m going to get a drink,” Griffin said to her. “Do you want anything?” “No, thanks.”

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As soon as he was gone, Lisa and Jasmine separated her from the group and pulled her off to the side. “When are you going to put that boy out of his misery?” Lisa asked first. “What are you talking about?” She peered over their shoulder, trying to catch a glimpse of Griffin. “He’s not miserable.” “Yes, he is,” Jasmine stated emphatically. Her green eyes practically shot fire. “You’ve been leading him on for weeks and we want to know when you’re going to do something about it.” “I have not been leading him on!” It was true. He’d known from the beginning that they were only going to be friends. It was not her fault if he wanted something more. “It’s all just an act.” Lisa put her hand on her arm. “Kerri, I love you, but you are deluding yourself if you think Griffin is just acting with you. And judging by that kiss I witnessed, you are not as immune to him as you would have us believe.” Unlike Jasmine, who knew she’d slept with Cole and Griffin, Lisa had no idea why she was so hesitant to have feelings for Griffin. As much as she would like to find someone special to fall in love with, it could never be him. He would never forgive her if he learned that she’d slept with his brother. Cole’s reaction had proved to her that the Davies men did not like to share. “It’s not as simple as you think, Lisa.” Lisa tossed her hair over one shoulder. “Yes, it is. Just admit that you want him and take him home and fuck his brains out.” Kerri felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around and saw that it was Griffin. From the grin on his face, she knew he’d heard Lisa, who turned red faced and hurried away with Jasmine quick on her heels. “I didn’t mean to run off your friends.” She shot an aggrieved look after them.

“Don’t worry about it.

I don’t want them to be my

friends anymore.” His handsome face broke into a grin. “Why not? They seem to have some good ideas.” She waggled her finger at him. “Don’t you start too, Griffin Davies. We agreed to keep things between us strictly platonic. You can’t go changing the rules.” “But it’s so much fun.” His blue eyes had darkened to indigo and raked over her body with a heated look. “Especially breaking the rules with you.” A rush of warmth shot to her toes. She wished he wouldn’t look at her like he wanted nothing more than to rip the clothes from her body.

It made her realize how much she wished he would

override her arguments. Her nipples hardened and pressed against the thin material of her dress. He noticed and the muscle in his jaw clenched. “You tell me one thing, Kerri, but your body says another.”

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He glanced up at her and his eyes mirrored his confusion. “Why are you resisting this thing between us?” She lowered her head and her hair fell forward to hide her eyes. “I can’t be with you, Griffin. It wouldn’t be right.” “It was right a few weeks ago,” he said tightly. He stepped closer and touched her hip, bringing her closer until their bodies brushed. She felt his hard body against hers and shivered. “Tell me what’s changed since then.” She swallowed nervously, unsure of how much to reveal to him. “I met someone.” “After we were together?” She nodded and risked a glance at his face. His lips tightened into a thin line and his forehead was marred by a frown. “Who is he?” “Nobody important.” People were beginning to stare at them, so she took his hand and steered him into the hallway.

She found an abandoned coat room and closed them up in it, away from the

curious onlookers and prying eyes of the press. Once the door was closed, she realized how enclosed the space was.

She and Griffin barely had room to turn around, much less keep a proper distance

between each other. He braced his arms over the coat racks and looked down at her. “Do you love him?” She wanted to retreat, but the shelf at her back kept her trapped in place. She didn’t love Cole, but her feelings for him would ruin anything she and Griffin could ever have, the same way her involvement with Griffin had hurt her chances with Cole.

Why did she have to meet both brothers?

She wrapped her hands around the coat rack and shook her head. “No, I don’t love him.” “Then I don’t see what is the problem, Kerri. You know I want you and you seem to want me too. Why can’t we be together?” “Because we can’t!” she exclaimed. There was no reason she could give for refusing him. She only hoped he never learned about Cole. He leaned closer. “That’s not a good enough answer.” She pushed against his chest. “Too bad, because that’s the only one you’re getting from me.” “Damn it, Kerri!” Griffin slapped his hand against the wall and turned from her in frustration. He ran his hand over his face and growled. “Why can’t you just tell me who it is?” She avoided answering the question by asking one of her own. “Why does it matter so much to you?” His hand dropped away from his face and she stilled at the look on his face. His expression was

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dangerous, a mixture of anger and lust. She shrank back against the shelf when he loomed over her. She wasn’t afraid of him, only frightened of her desire to touch him. “It matters because it tears me up inside to know a man has your heart when I want it for my own.” She sucked in a surprised breath. She knew he wanted her, but she’d no idea he had feelings for her. Her fingers trembled as she lifted them to touch his cheek. “Griffin, I don’t know what to say.” He jerked away from her. “Don’t touch me unless you are prepared to do more.” She moved her hand to her side and gave him a pained look. “Why did you agree to date me if you felt this way?” He laughed with self-deprecation. “I only wanted to be close to you. I thought I could make you forget the other guy.” It was on the tip of her tongue to say he had. She’d only thought of Cole a few times since she’d been with him. And then it was only as a reminder of the reason she could never have Griffin. The implication hit and her knees nearly buckled. She was using Cole as a crutch to get over her fascination with Griffin.

It seemed so plain now.

When she’d met Cole, she’d been hurt and angry with his

brother. He’d seemed so different, yet looked so alike, that her crush had spilled over to him. Griffin had always been the brother she’d wanted.

How would she ever work herself out of the coil she’d

found herself in? “You have,” she simply said. “I have?” he echoed. Griffin stood there, looking nervous and unsure, and her heart melted. Why was she denying herself the pleasure she knew was to be found in his arms? She would have to tell him about Cole, of course, but it could wait. Right now, she wanted to reassure him that his feelings were not one-sided. Before common sense could set in, she kicked off her heels and reached for him. He met her more than halfway, his mouth already open and seeking hers.

She groaned when his tongue thrust inside and

mated with hers. His hands bunched her skirt up around her hips and his fingers delved beneath the silk of her panties to cup her ass.

He lifted her onto the shelf, which creaked beneath the force of their

movements. She tore her lips from his and glanced at the rickety shelf she was sitting on. “Do you think this thing will hold us?” “Probably not, but it’s worth a try,” he said as he claimed her mouth again. She soon forget her worries beneath the assault of his touch. His hands moved over her body with the familiarity of a long time lover. His fingers traced the curve of her breast, the slope of her waist, and the tender skin

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of her thigh. When he cupped her between the legs, she let out a throaty moan. “Sshh,” he whispered against her ear as his fingers moved deeper. “We’re in public. Somebody could hear you.” She knew that. It was one of the reasons she was so turned on. The threat of being caught at any moment was arousing. She widened her legs as she reached for his buckle and undid it. She slid his zipper down and wet her lips as his arousal sprang free.

Her hands curved around him, lightly

stroking the moist tip. “I want to feel you inside me.” She knew it was a worn out line, but it correctly summed up her feelings at the moment. Griffin shoved his pants past his knees and wrapped her leg around his waist. She scooted to the very edge of the shelf and braced herself by putting her other foot against the wall. He ripped off her panties and tossed them aside. When he thrust inside her, she let out a low, keening moan. She could feel a tremble start in her lower limbs and spread upward. She dropped her head back against the shelf, banging it on a piece of wood. “Ouch,” she muttered. Griffin immediately stopped moving. “Am I hurting you?” “No.

I bumped my head.” She rubbed the knot that was forming gingerly.

“Keep going.”

When he did not start moving again, she dropped her hand and gave him a disappointed look.

“I’m

okay, Griffin. It’s only a little knot.” He smiled and ran a hand over her hip. “I know. I’m just taking a moment to enjoy the feeling of being with you again.” His hips arched forward and he slowly withdrew until only the tip of him was inside her. “Do you know I dreamed of you every night?” He kissed her shoulder and nibbled his way to her ear. “Fantasized about what you were doing?” “Did you?” she gasped as he slipped out of her and rubbed himself against the swollen lips of her sex. “What was I doing in your fantasies?” His eyes raked over her still clothed body. Without speaking, he put his hands on her waist and turned her so that her back was to him. He bent her over the shelf, so that her ass was pressed against his thighs.

Realizing what he was about to do, she braced her upper body against the shelf and

widened her stance.

He pushed back into her from behind.

His teeth nipped her neck lightly.

“Nothing. In my dreams, I did all the work.” His hands cupped her breasts and squeezed her nipples.

She arched herself into his touch,

savoring the feeling of him deep within her body. Her inner muscles began clenching around his cock and she screamed as she came.

He was not far behind her.

climaxed, leaving them both limp and sweaty.

His hips pounded against hers as he

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He pulled out and she straightened her dress, aware of the tell-tale wrinkles and wetness between her legs.

She turned to face him and nearly came a second time.

His hair was adorably

mussed and he was missing several buttons on his shirt. He was fastening his pants, his hands visibly shaking as he righted his clothing. He looked up at her when he was finished. “Come home with me tonight.” She bent down to pick up her heels. She held onto his shoulder as she lifted one foot then the other. Before she could answer him, someone softly knocked on the door. “Kerri, are you in here?” She recognized Jasmine’s voice and reached for the doorknob, opening it only a couple of inches. “Yes.” Jasmine’s grin covered her entire face. “What are you doing in there?” Kerri narrowed her eyes. “Just talking. Did you need something?” “Actually, yes. Some of the press is looking for you. They want an interview.” Griffin came to the door and opened it a little wider. “Can it wait?” Jasmine shook her head. “No. Armand is very insistent that Kerri do it tonight while the show is still fresh in their minds.” She gave both of them a knowing look.

“I’m glad to see things are

working out between you two.” “What gave you that idea?” Kerri asked. Jasmine shrugged. “Just the fact that I could hear you down the hallway.” Kerri’s mouth dropped open. “No, you couldn’t!” “She probably could,” Griffin added. “You do tend to get loud.” He stifled a laugh when she popped him on the arm and hissed, “Be quiet.” “Can you stall them, Jasmine? We’ll be there in just a minute.” Jasmine agreed and headed off to do his bidding.

He shut the door and leaned against it.

“Come home with me,” he said again. She did not waste any time considering her response. “Okay.” Now that she’d had him again, she was looking forward to having him every way imaginable.

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Chapter Nine

“I love this freckle.” Kerri lifted her head and glanced down at Griffin. “Which one?” He pointed to a spot on her left hip. “This one right here.” His head lowered and he pressed his lips to her freckle. “It looks like a strawberry.” “Does it taste like one?” He shook his head. “No. Like peaches.” He slid up her nude body and pillowed his head on her breasts. “I’m glad you came tonight.” “So, am I,” she answered with a satisfied smile. Several times, in fact. She continued to be amazed by his stamina. bedroom.

There was something to be said about a man who knew his way around the

She felt his dick hardening against her thigh and knew there was about to be a repeat

performance. He shifted over her and stretched his arm toward the bedside table.

He opened a drawer and

pulled out a condom. She turned her head to watch him and saw a glint of a silver frame. “Are you hiding pictures of your girlfriends?” He picked it up and handed it to her. “You’ve discovered my secret.” She glanced down at the picture and winced. It was a family portrait. Griffin glanced over her shoulder and pointed out the members. “That’s my parents,” he pointed to an attractive middle aged couple. “That’s my sister, Leah. She’s still in high school.” “She’s very pretty,” Kerri remarked. “When you meet her, don’t tell her that. Her head’s already big enough.” Kerri’s heart flipped over. He hadn’t said if you meet her, he’d said when.. That meant he was already thinking about introducing her to his family. He tapped the glass above Cole’s face. “And that big lug is my older brother, Cole. He’s a gastroenterologist in New Orleans.” “Impressive,” Kerri said and handed back the picture without looking at Cole. She did not want to be reminded of her mistake. Griffin took the picture and gazed at it a moment longer before putting it back in the drawer.

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She thought it odd to hide the picture and said so.

He gave her a sheepish grin.

“It’s not that I’m

ashamed of them. It’s just that I was having a bad hair day.” She laughed and lunged for the picture again. “Let me see.” He leaned over her, trapping her to the bed. “No.” She wriggled her way out from under him and managed to get her fingers on the picture again. “Hmm,” she said as she gazed at the smiling face of his younger self. She began laughing. “You had a bowl cut.” He grabbed the picture and hugged it to his chest. “What did you expect? It was the nineties.” “I never had a bowl cut,” she replied pertly. “That’s because you’re a girl.” He tossed the picture aside and covered her breasts with his hands. “Now you know my dirty secret. Tell me yours.” I slept with your brother in Vegas. It would be so easy to tell him now, but she didn’t want to ruin his good humor. Instead, she told him about the time a monkey had thrown shit at her during a trip to the zoo. His nose crinkled. “That’s disgusting.” “Tell me about it,” she answered. “You’re not the one who had to ride home with shit in your hair with all the other students laughing at you and calling you Shithead.” “I hear monkey feces are a good conditioner.” She pushed him onto his back and leaned over him. “Stop making fun of me.” He held up his hands. “I’m not.” She bent down and pressed a kiss to the underside of his chin.

She moved down his chest,

tracing the invisible line toward his penis. He recognized her intention and his hands came up to cup the back of her head as she took him into her mouth. He tasted of sex and rubber. His fingers tangled through her hair as he guided her motions.

His hips lifted and she felt the tightening of his balls an

instant before he came. “Damn, you’re good at that,” he said as she sprawled across his chest. “Should I put that on my resume?” He laughed. “Good with cock. I would hire you in an instant.” She toyed with the hair on his chest. “You mean I could be getting paid for this?” “That would make you a whore,” he teased. “As long as I’m your whore. ” She put her arms around his waist and lay beside him. She could feel his muscles relaxing and his breathing began to deepen. She should be getting some sleep also. It was nearly three in the morning, but she was too amped to sleep. Her first show had been amazing,

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the reporters full of praise, and then Griffin happened. Things couldn’t get any better. ***** Kerri felt something tickling her thigh and she slapped at it. “Damn mosquitoes,” she mumbled and rolled over onto her stomach.

She felt the tickle again and kicked her leg free of the covers.

“Irritating, disease spreading pest,” she mumbled and cracked open one eye. It was no insect. Griffin lifted the feather he was using to tickle her and grinned unrepentantly.

“Morning,

Sunshine.” She gave a goofy smile. She could easily get used to waking up beside him. “Good morning.” She stretched her arms overhead and saw his gaze slip to her breasts, which were displayed by her provocative position. She lowered her arms and gave him a stern look. “Quit looking at me like that. I have to be at D’Sandro’s in an hour. There isn’t time to fool around.” He waggled his eyebrows and leered at her. “There’s always time for a quickie.” She slid out of his reach, nearly tumbling off the bed in the process. She disappeared into the bathroom before he could catch her and locked the door behind her. He banged on it. “Party pooper,” he called. She cracked the door open an inch.

“I can’t be late today.

We are doing a second shoot for

Look of Love.” He leaned forward and kissed her. “I’ll go fix breakfast.” “Thank you,” she replied and shut the door again. This time, she left it unlocked. She undressed and climbed into the shower. As the warm water poured over her, she hummed a medley of songs from The Phantom of the Opera.. She was just getting to her favorite aria when she heard the door open.

Shampoo was in her hair, so she kept her eyes closed as she reached for the

curtain. “I thought I told you no funny business.” At first, no one answered. “Griffin?” She cracked open one eye and squinted at him. “Is that you?” “Baby, do you want cheese in your omelet?” She froze at the sound of Griffin’s voice coming from the kitchen. If he was in there, who was in the bathroom with her? She let out a high pitched squeak and ducked behind the curtain.

She

hurriedly rinsed the shampoo out of her hair and reached for her robe. She heard running footsteps and then Griffin’s surprised voice. “What are you doing here?” Who the hell was there? She had a sinking suspicion she already knew. When a second voice

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answered, she groaned. She’d been right. “I just flew in and I had to piss. I’m sorry. I didn’t expect it to be someone other than you in the shower.” She was trying to dry off behind the privacy of the curtain when Griffin stuck his head in. “My brother’s here.” “I gathered,” she said dryly. She stuck her arms into the over-sized robe and stepped from the shower with as much dignity as she could manage. Griffin put his arm around her when she would’ve preferred to escape and led her to Cole. “Kerri, meet my brother Cole. Cole, this is Kerri.” Barely a flicker of emotion crossed Cole’s face as he stuck out his hand. “Nice to meet you.” “You, too,” she mumbled and gathered the ends of the robe tightly around her. “I’d better get dressed.” She fled as if the hounds of hell were biting her ankles. Once the door was closed, she bit her fist and silently screamed. Was Cole going to tell Griffin about them? Or did he expect her to? She dressed quickly, expecting Griffin to come bursting into the room at any moment. she gathered her flagging courage and headed to the kitchen.

When he didn’t,

Her steps faltered when she only saw

Cole. “Where’s Griffin?” Cole lowered his glass of juice and gave her a blank look.

“He went to the store to get more

eggs.” He set his glass on the counter and crossed his arms over his chest. “I see I was right.” She felt a pang of guilt. “I’m sorry, Cole. I didn’t mean for any of this to happen.” He held up his hand. “I understand. Let’s just forget about Vegas. What do you say?” She was confused by his calm acceptance of her relationship with Griffin. “I have to tell him. I can’t stand keeping a secret from him.” Cole pushed away from the counter and advanced on her.

“I know honesty is the best policy

and all, but in this case I think it would be better to keep our mouths shut.” “Are you saying you think he’ll never forgive me?” She clenched her hands into fists.

The

thought was too horrible to bear. “He’ll never forgive either of us,” Cole stated.

He took hold of her hands and gave her a

reassuring squeeze. “I promise I’ll never tell him.” “Never tell me what?” Cole stepped away from her at the same moment she looked over her shoulder at Griffin, who was standing in the doorway to the kitchen with a curious expression on his face. Now was the time. She had to tell him. Before she could open her mouth, Cole stepped forward. “She doesn’t like eggs.” Griffin was not fooled. He glanced at her. “That’s funny. She ate them yesterday.”

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She took a deep breath and pushed past Cole. As she moved by him, she patted his shoulder gently. “It’s okay. I’ll tell him.” She forced herself to continue looking in his eyes. “I had sex with Cole.” Griffin reeled away from her. “Just now?” She shook her head. “No. In Vegas.” He set down his grocery sack on the table and began unloading it without saying a word. “Griffin?” She touched his back and it was then she felt the tense way he was holding himself. “You should have told me.” He walked across the room and tossed the eggs into the refrigerator. Cole reached out to stop him. “I’m sorry, Griffin.” Griffin jerked his arm away. “Did you know that I had her first?” Cole winced and nodded. “Yes.” “You bastard!” Griffin lunged for Cole. “Stop it!” Kerri screamed and put herself between them. She put her hands against Griffin to keep him from killing Cole.

The maniacal look in his eyes frightened her.

“It’s not his fault.

I

seduced him.” Griffin huffed.

“I’m sure it wasn’t too much of an effort.

He’s always lusted after my

girlfriends.” “Girlfriend?” Kerri echoed. He considered her his girlfriend? Cole tried to reason with him.

“Who wouldn’t, Griffin? You date models and actresses for

crying out loud!” “You’re my brother,” Griffin shot back.

He turned toward her.

“Did you know who he was

when you slept with him?” She lowered her gaze and nodded mutely. “Did you get off knowing that you’d had both of us?” She gasped. “It wasn’t like that.” Cole tried to take up for her. “She was hurting and fooled herself into thinking I was you.” “It was a mistake. ” She bit her lip to keep it from trembling. “A stupid mistake..” “You’re wrong,” Griffin said.

“The only mistake was trusting either of you. ” He departed

without another word. She heard the slamming of his front door and turned toward Cole. “What do we do now?” He came forward and folded her into his comforting embrace. “We wait for him to come back.”

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“What if he doesn’t?” Kerri mentally kicked herself for being so stupid. “He will. He just needs time to cool off.” Cole moved away from her and began putting up the groceries Griffin had left on the counter. “He usually doesn’t stay mad too long.” “But he has every reason to be mad. I should have been honest with him from the start.” Cole shut the refrigerator door and rested against it. “Do you think it would’ve changed things?” “Probably not,” Kerri admitted. “But at least he could have made his decision before he slept with me again. I’ve only made things worse.” “He cares about you, Kerri. He’ll get over it.” “How do you know he cares about me?” “Because he called me and told me about you two.” Kerri winced. It couldn’t have been easy for him to listen to Griffin drone on about her. “I’m sorry. The last thing I wanted to do was hurt either of you..” “I know,” Cole said. “Just be patient. If I know my brother, he’ll come back to you.” ***** Kerri made it to the shoot with barely a minute to spare. Her eyes were red-rimmed and swollen from crying. Jasmine took one look at her and rushed her to the make-up chair. “What’s wrong?” “Cole showed up at Griffin’s apartment.” Jasmine’s mouth dropped open. “Did he find out?” “I told him.” She winced and waited for Jasmine’s reaction. “What did he say?” Kerri’s lips began trembling again. “It wasn’t good. He left.” “What about Cole?” “He’s at the apartment. He wants to try to explain things to Griffin.” Jasmine patted her arm comfortingly. “Maybe it will all work out.” Kerri nodded, but she sincerely doubted it. Griffin, who kept his feelings on a tight leash, had been the angriest she’d ever seen.

It was a silent rage for the most part, but she knew it would take

some time for him to forgive her. If he ever did. That morning’s shoot was meant to be playful and fun.

She smiled and fooled around with

Carter, but she knew her unhappiness was showing when Armand called a halt to the photography. He came over to her. “Jasmine told me about Griffin. I’m sorry, but we have to get through this.” “I know. I’m sorry too,” she sniffed and then straightened her spine. “I’ll do better.”

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He nodded and motioned for the photographer to continue. She managed to make it through the morning. Hopefully there would be a couple of shots they could use. That night, she was as miserable as she’d ever been. Now she knew how Griffin had felt when he’d wanted her, but she refused to be with him. She’d called Griffin’s cell a couple of times, but he was ignoring her. Cole had called once to see if she’d seen him, which only worried her more. After several hours, she jumped to her feet. “I can’t take it anymore.” Jasmine followed her to the door. “Where are you going?” “To look for him.” She jerked open the door and rushed through it, only to pull up short when she bumped into a hard chest. Her eyes traveled upwards and met Griffin’s face. “What are you doing here?” He looked like hell. His shirt was rumpled and his hair stuck out in several directions. It had been raining and his clothes were plastered to his skin. He’d never looked better. He gestured for her to join him in the doorway. She closed the door behind her and crossed to his side. “I’m really sorry, Griffin.” He held up a hand. “I came here to say something. Let me get it out before I lose my nerve.” She nodded, dreading what he was about to say. Was he going to call her a slut? Or worse? “I love you.” She gaped at him. “What?” “It’s true. ” He began to pace the hallway. “I know you won’t believe me, but I had to tell you that.” He reached the end of the hall and strode back to her.

“I know you think I’m just an empty

headed model good for nothing but a roll in the hay, but I do love you. I’ve never loved anyone in my whole life, so it’s all new to me, but I’m willing to take a chance if you are.” She snapped her mouth closed, aware that she looked like a beached fish. “You’re not angry at me?” He braced his arms against the railing of the stairs and shook his head. “Not anymore. I spent all afternoon thinking about how you resisted me and then I remembered that you kept saying there was someone else.” She winced. “I wanted to tell you.” “It’s not important. What is important is knowing that you never loved him.” She tilted her head in confusion. “How do you know?” “You told me yourself.

Remember? I asked you if you loved that other guy and you told me

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no.” He reached out and touched her cheek. “You resisted me for so long. That was very noble of you, but I’m glad you finally gave in.” It seemed too good to be true. He was not mad at her. Even more surprising, he loved her. Who would have guessed? “I love you, too. ” And she found she meant it. She was in love with Griffin Davies, one of the most eligible men in the world. He pulled her closer and wrapped his arms around her waist. “What do you say we go back to my place?” A thought struck her. “What about Cole?” “He flew back to New Orleans. He didn’t want there to be tension between us.” He must have seen her worried look. “Don’t worry. We had a long talk and he explained everything to me. I can’t blame him for sleeping with you. You’re irresistible.” “You’re pretty irresistible yourself,” she grinned. Griffin linked their hands together and brought them to his lips. “But from now on, remember which brother you’re in love with.” She gazed up at him and smiled. It wasn’t something she would soon forget. They came into the room and Jasmine took one look at them before leaping to their feet. “Umm, I’ll think I’m going to do a little shopping.” She grabbed her purse and headed for the door. Kerri glanced at her watch. “At ten o’clock at night?” Griffin’s breath teased her ear as he leaned down to whisper. “I think she’s trying to discreetly give us a little alone time.” “Oh.” Kerri waited until the door was shut before turning and running her hands across Griffin’s shoulders. “What do we need that for?” He pressed closer, pinning her against the wall with ease. “So I can do this.” He bent down and nipped the side of her neck as his hands simultaneously came up to grip her hips. “And this.” His mouth moved from her neck to her ear. “Ah, I see.” Kerri unbuckled Griffin’s jeans and stuck her hands inside. She cupped him, delighting in the harsh moan he made against her skin. “Maybe even this?” “Definitely that,” Griffin agreed as he began to undress her. Her peasant blouse disappeared over her head, soon followed by her denim skirt. Griffin dropped to his knees, pressing butterfly kisses against her belly. His fingers hooked into the elastic of her panties and he began to ease them down. Kerri balanced herself on one foot as he pulled them completely off. She was wet and anticipating what

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he would do next. Griffin traced the crease of her thigh and teasingly glanced up at her. “I suppose we could call her back. The more the merrier.” Kerri shook her head. “I’m not sharing you.” Griffin’s face became completely serious. “I’m not sharing you either.” “You don’t have to worry about that.” She slid down the wall until they faced each other. “You’re the only one I want.” Griffin kissed her. She opened her mouth and allowed him to take the lead. Her belly rubbed against his hard cock as she shifted closer. “Do you want to go to my room?” Griffin pulled back and glanced around the room. “Too far. How about the couch?” Kerri grinned. “I’ve never had sex on a couch before.” Griffin got to his feet and helped her up. “Then you’re in luck, cause you are about to get your chance.” Kerri scampered to the couch, laughing when Griffin launched himself at her. They sank down against the soft cushions, Griffin hastily removing his clothes. Their limbs tangled as they hurried to undress the other. Finally, when they lay skin to skin, Kerri leaned up and kissed him softly. “I love you.” Griffin held her for just a moment. “I love you too. I’ve never said that to anyone before.” “Me neither.” “Know what else I haven’t done?” Griffin eased off her and got to his knees on the couch. Kerri sat up, spreading her legs to straddle his waist. “What?” “Made love on a couch.” He slid her forward, impaling her in one, sure stroke. Kerri’s head lolled back against the cushions. “That’s surprising because you’re very good at it.” “So are you.” His lips trailed across her breast, leaving shivers in their wake. In a sitting position, she could feel every inch of him. His cock slid deeper and deeper, bringing moans to her lips. “More,” she breathed. The angle of his hips changed as Griffin began to move faster. She came just as he cried out her name. He sank down on her, both of them too exhausted to move. Kerri waited to catch her breath before speaking. She threaded her fingers through Griffin’s damp hair and chuckled softly. “Do you know where else I haven’t had sex?” He lifted his head and pinned her with a seductive look. “Where?” “The kitchen,” she answered with a meaningful glance in that direction.

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Griffin got to his feet and reached for her. “Want to change that?” “Sure.” She followed him and plopped her bottom on the table. “And after that, we still have the shower and the…” Griffin held up a hand. “Please, Kerri. One thing at a time.” She pretended to pout. “But I want to do it all.” “And we will,” Griffin assured her. He leaned forward and bit her bottom lip. “We have the rest of our lives.” She sighed with happiness. The rest of her life with Griffin Davies. She couldn’t think of a happier ending.

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