by Renee Roman
“Good.”
“Does that mean you’re going to feed me, too?” Ari handed off their gear and stepped on the sandy beach. They dragged the craft up to the rocks and flipped it over.
Hudson pulled off her sunglasses, wiped the sweat from her brow, and met her gaze. The gray hue shifted to a deep slate. Ari thought she saw a flash of desire before Hudson slid the sunglasses back in place. She’d seen the same thing in a few of her previous sex partners’ eyes, although she never really understood how just looking at someone could cause the reaction until now.
“Maybe it’s another surprise.” Hudson slung the backpack over her shoulder, then picked up the life vests and cooler before starting up the incline.
Ari hurried to catch up. “I don’t know if my heart can take another surprise.”
Hudson turned around. “I think your heart is fine.” For a brief instant, she thought Hudson was going to kiss her, then the moment was gone and Hudson kept going.
Her heart pounded from the almost kiss. Maybe she’d been wrong, but she didn’t think so. Now who’s sending mixed signals? Hudson disappeared around the tall mound of ornamental grass.
“Hudson!” Ari’s tone was laced with annoyance. “Why are you running?”
Hudson stood waiting. “I just wanted to see if your heart could take it.”
Ari held the paddles in one hand, the other on her hip. “You think you’re so funny.”
“You said it, not me.” Hudson snorted and headed for the shack.
* * *
Hudson rummaged in the back of the car and emerged with Ari’s bag and a canvas tote.
“Where are we going?”
Hudson pointed to a large block building. “That’s the shower house. We can clean up and change before we eat.”
“I don’t have a towel or toiletries.”
“I brought enough for both of us.” Hudson winked at her and held up the tote.
“How much stuff do you have in there?” Ari looked in the cargo area.
She closed the hatch. “You’ll just have to wait to see.”
Ari put her clean clothes on one of the wooden benches and looked around. “There’s no curtains,” she said, her hands on her hips.
Hudson looked around. “There’s no one else here.”
Ari pursed her lips. “There might be.”
She threw her hands up and strode to the other end. “Not a soul.” She moved next to Ari. “Believe me now?”
“It’s not that I didn’t believe you before.”
Hudson didn’t understand what the big deal was. Locker rooms were second homes for her. Regardless if Ari showered or not, she was a sweaty mess. There was muck from the shore between her toes, and sand and bits of grass drying on her hands and legs. She couldn’t wait to get her clothes off.
* * *
Hudson undressed, revealing her sports bra and hi-cut briefs. Moisture coated her neck and arms. Ari’s gaze moved lower. She’s got a fucking six-pack.
Even knowing Hudson was fit didn’t prepare her for the barely covered body she was seeing. The tank top she’d shed had hidden the beauty beneath. When she moved, her back was a symphony of flowing muscles and tendons. Her thighs were solid, bulging and flexing in the most delicious way, and she imagined her head between them. Hudson looked good enough to eat and she wanted to savor the taste of her. She wanted to know if Hudson’s bronzed skin was as smooth as it looked. She didn’t trust her legs to move away.
Hudson stepped closer, her fingertips trailing Ari’s arm as she spoke. “I didn’t know you’d be uncomfortable with me here. I can stand outside.”
She shook her head. “It’s not you. It’s just…” She glanced back at the door.
“Did something happen?”
Ari stood taller and squared her shoulders. She was acting like a child. She gave a short laugh to relieve the tension she felt. “Nothing aside from some locker room teasing in high school. I was rather chubby.”
Hudson picked up her hand and guided her in a slow spin. “Looking at you now I’d find that hard to believe.”
Her cheeks felt warm. The sincerity in Hudson’s voice gave her a boost of confidence.
“Thank you.”
“You go shower and I’ll stand guard.”
Relief washed over her. “You don’t mind?” She grabbed the tote and rushed to the last stall. “Thank you, thank you,” she called over her shoulder.
* * *
Hudson sat waiting for her turn. Ari’s discomfort bothered her. The water came on and Ari poked her head out.
“I’ll be quick,” she said before disappearing into the cubical.
Hudson snorted. She’d been naked in locker rooms for so long she never gave it a thought. She rested her chin in her hands. It had been a good day so far.
“Hudson?”
“All clear.”
“I forgot my clothes,” Ari called out. “Would you bring them to me?”
She really is shy. I wonder if she’s that shy in the bedroom. Shaking her head at her wayward thoughts, Hudson picked up the folded stack from the bench.
“Here you go.” She tried not to stare at Ari’s long, lean legs and the edge of the towel that barely covered her chest. Even with it snugged around Ari’s body, she could tell the breasts beneath would more than fill her hand. Her vision traveled upward to admire the slender neck and plump, pouty lips. Kissable lips. Ari cleared her throat, and Hudson remembered the clothes in her hands before she set them on a shelf next to the shower.
“Thank you. I don’t know what I was thinking.”
“How fast you could shower before someone else came in would be my guess.” Hudson smiled.
“Ha, ha.” Ari held out the bag and the tucked edge of the towel slipped. She caught it just before it opened all the way and their eyes met. Hudson got a glance of a creamy hip. Ari flushed a lovely shade of pink.
* * *
Ari sat in the passenger seat and wished their time together wasn’t ending. “Thank you for a wonderful day.”
Hudson turned sideways. “You’re welcome. It was nice to take a break from the house.” She reached across the console and took Ari’s hand in hers. The gesture felt natural. “I enjoyed spending it with you.”
Neither had mentioned the word date. They’d sat at a picnic table and shared a quiet meal, while enjoying the shaded warmth under river birch and box elders. Hudson had packed an array of fruits, cheeses, meats, and a baguette, along with a crisp and fruity bottle of white wine. She hadn’t been too keen on the shower, but she’d needed it. The day had been otherwise perfect.
“I’m sorry I made such a fuss over the shower thing.” They laced fingers, Hudson’s larger hand covering hers.
“Hey. It’s okay. You don’t have to apologize for anything.” She gave Ari’s hand a squeeze. “Not everyone is comfortable in public settings.”
Ari met her gaze. One side of her mouth lifted. “You mean strutting around without a care like you do?”
“Yeah, something like that,” Hudson said.
“Well, I guess I should head in.” Her line of vision dropped to Hudson’s lips before meeting her questioning eyes. If she sat there any longer she’d do something she’d regret.
* * *
Hudson pulled away from the curb. She had the feeling Ari had been stalling and almost suggested they go for drinks. You know how that would end. Nothing good can come from pining over someone who isn’t looking for a relationship. No. It was better to keep things casual. They’d had fun and relaxed, which was the whole purpose of their day together. There was no need to complicate the relationship. After all, they were working on building a friendship. She could do with a few more friends and it sounded like Ari could, too.
But then, there was her body’s reaction to seeing Ari nearly naked. It didn’t mean she wanted to sleep with her, though. Ari was attractive and she would have thought something wrong if she hadn’t felt a pang of desire. If she didn’t know better, she’d have bet Ar
i was fighting feelings of her own, but it was likely just the stress of the house and business. She was more determined than ever to do everything she could to help Ari realize her potential.
Chapter Twelve
Ari dropped to the couch in a heap. Between the sun and the fresh air, she was exhausted. The day had been better than she could have imagined. Hudson was right in challenging her to try something new. She wondered if Hudson pushed herself in the same way when it came to trying other experiences. Ari closed her eyes, sinking deeper into the couch. She envisioned Hudson’s body, reliving the effect it had on her and the times she’d felt the heat between them. Moments she thought they were going to kiss. So much for anticipation. Obviously, she’d mistaken Hudson’s intentions. One thing was clear, Hudson was a caring, warm person, and she enjoyed every time they were together. Whenever Hudson turned sideways as she paddled, Ari had caught a glimpse of her sexy smile. She liked how they teased each other, too. She couldn’t remember a time when she’d been with another woman and felt so relaxed—or turned on.
Except for when she’d panicked at the shower house. The thought of being naked in front of Hudson had set her on edge. When Ari almost dropped her towel, the look in Hudson’s eyes showed longing. The thought of them being naked together sent electricity coursing through her. She wanted Hudson’s skin pressed against hers.
In the past, Ari had only thought of a woman’s body when she’d needed physical release. She’d also been indifferent about dating because she wasn’t interested in a long-term relationship. No ties. No repeats. Keeping things simple was the best way to maintain her independence. Sex was a bothersome necessity. Except when she was around Hudson. Her immediate attraction had taken her by surprise and thrown her off stride, but she hoped it went much deeper than Hudson’s outer beauty. She sensed a compassionate, loving soul resided inside.
“If only,” she mumbled. As much as she liked Hudson and couldn’t deny her feelings, she had to step back. This was her time to shine, an important opportunity to prove to her father she was capable of being a successful chef. Even if she never spoke to him again, she’d be sure he knew she’d made it without his support. As for her mom, well, she’d never stood up for what she believed in, and there was no reason to think her mother would ever change. No. If she were going to prove her worthiness, it wasn’t going to be through another person. It was something she had to do on her own. Once the house was done, she and Hudson wouldn’t spend as much time together, and the temptation would fade to the background. Although she wasn’t sure that’s where she wanted Hudson to be.
* * *
Ari stood back and admired the freshly painted kitchen. Hudson had been right. The melon color worked. Even in the fading daylight, it felt warm and inviting. Hudson had recently arranged for a final buffing and polishing of the hardwood floors. With the white trim and cabinets already done, the only thing left in the kitchen was the wall plates and lighting fixtures.
The guest bathroom was last on their list. She was going to paint it by herself as a surprise for Hudson. The woman needed a break. She’d been painting and doing repairs every free minute since the project had started more than a month ago. Ari hadn’t been there to help as much as she would have liked, but she did what she could. She’d also made a trip to the city and emptied out her storage unit, hoping Hudson could incorporate some of what she already owned into the design. She pressed the speed number.
“Hey, Ari. I’m on my way to the dojo. What’s up?”
“Don’t bother to come to the house tomorrow.” Ari cringed at her word choice. Why did she have such a hard time saying what she meant in a kinder way? Maybe it was the rush of adrenaline she felt when she heard the deep timbre of Hudson’s voice.
“Are you firing me for taking a night off?”
The teasing tone coming through the phone made her laugh. “Hardly. I mean, I’ve got things covered tomorrow.”
“There’s not a lot left to do. Are you sure?”
“I’ll see you Friday.” She hurried to add, “And remember to have some fun.”
Ari picked up the paint can labeled GB and carried some supplies down the hall. Hudson was methodical, labeling every can of paint, piece of furniture, and accessory. She knew the real reason. There’d been a near mishap when Ari had picked up what she thought was ceiling white that turned out to be trim white. Hudson pointed out the difference. It didn’t seem like a big deal at the time, but having a glossy ceiling would have been horrible.
“Yeah, she’s a keeper,” she said aloud, glad Hudson hadn’t been there to hear the comment.
* * *
Hudson looked around admiring the bathroom. “You do nice work.”
“Thank you. I’m not sure if I’m as neat as you, but whatever mess I made I cleaned up,” Ari laughed.
She took Ari’s hand and gave a squeeze. Their eyes locked. Ari’s pupils dilated. The irises swirled into a kaleidoscope of colors whenever she looked at Ari with more emotion than friends would. Hudson’s sex pulsed with need. She wanted to pull her closer, touch her lips. Kiss her like she’d dreamt of doing. Ignoring the fire hadn’t been easy. But she couldn’t trust her instincts. They’d been wrong before and she’d paid too dear a price.
“Thank you for the break. I didn’t realize how much I needed it.”
“You’re welcome.” Ari returned to the kitchen. “When do you think you’ll be done in here?”
“I can do the lighting and electrical plates tomorrow. That’s all that’s left. Once you move in, I can touch up whatever needs attention. Just let me know.”
“I have to work both jobs Monday, then the restaurant Tuesday night, and both again on Wednesday.” Ari looked miserable. “I guess I’ll finish packing this weekend.”
“I don’t mind lending a hand with the packing,” Hudson offered.
“No, no. You’ve done enough.” Ari chewed her bottom lip, something she probably wasn’t aware of. Hudson found it irresistible.
“Once you’re settled in, I’ll concentrate on upstairs.” She was more than ready to be settled in, too. Her roommates had become sullen and needy. She didn’t want to have to deal with their moods much longer. There were times she could barely deal with her own.
Ari stood close and put a hand on her shoulder. It felt warm and gentle on her bare flesh. Her pulse quickened. “Please don’t wait on my account. I can get settled by myself.” She sucked on her bottom lip. “Uh, that is, if you don’t mind lending a hand with a couple of things.”
“See, you do need me.”
If she didn’t know Hudson was teasing, the comment would have pissed her off. It brought back unpleasant memories of her father.
Ari had signed up for a few cooking lessons offered through the high school enrichment program the summer after she graduated. They didn’t make anything elaborate, but she felt confident when she was in the kitchen. At the same time, she found her passion. She went home and shared the news with her parents, excited at the prospect of finding a career she knew she could excel in. Her father’s total lack of support had hurt.
“You’re supposed to find a way to earn a living. Plan a future with a husband and children.” He raised his voice, making her flinch. “You can’t do anything right and you certainly can’t manage on your own.”
She became angry and blurted she wasn’t looking for a husband because she was looking for a woman.
“I’m through with you. I will not have you embarrassing your mother and me any longer. Don’t count on any money, and don’t bother to come home unless you come to your senses. And you damned well better not bring any women with you!” He had slammed his fists on the table and stormed out of the house without giving her a chance to rationalize with him.
Later that night, her father had quietly knocked on her bedroom door, and she had hope of making amends. “I want you out before I get home from work tomorrow.”
He closed the door and walked out of her life. She and Kara had borrowed a truck an
d called a few friends. She took everything that was hers and moved in with Kara, who had already found an apartment in New York City. She had nowhere else to go, and Kara hadn’t even asked her what she wanted to do. It had been the saddest day of her life.
She still felt her heart shatter at the memory. She’d vowed she would show him. He’d refused to give her any financial support because she had insisted she could make a living being a chef. To make matters worse, she’d also revealed she was a lesbian. She’d proven then she didn’t need him and she didn’t need anyone now. What she did need was help. She’d softened her independence over the years. Asking for help didn’t mean she wasn’t self-sufficient, it meant she was human. Now was one of those times. She pushed down the old habit of denial and swallowed her pride. She couldn’t lift some of the furniture by herself or carry it up the front stairs and she did indeed need help.
Ari’s gaze fell to her hand where it rested on Hudson’s wide, strong-looking shoulder. She felt the muscle twitch and wished she hadn’t. Ari took a step back and hoped Hudson missed the tremble of her hand.
“Ari?” Hudson asked “For you, I’ll make time.”
Hudson was captivating. Stop. She doesn’t want you. You’ll just make a fool of yourself. She nodded, willing the demons in her head to leave her alone. For the first time in her life it felt good to need another person. The fact that she was gorgeous didn’t hurt either.
* * *
“That’s the last of it,” Hudson said and grabbed bottles of water from the fridge.
Ari gratefully accepted one from Hudson’s outstretched hand. “Thanks.” She drank down half the bottle. “Of course, I picked the hottest day of the year to move.” Ari leveled her gaze on Hudson. Moisture glistened on her neck and traveled down the center of her chest. Her tattered T-shirt was soaked. Dark crescents formed under her breasts, and she couldn’t pull her focus away before noticing Hudson’s nipples pressing against the fabric. Heat coursed up her neck to her cheeks and their eyes locked. Before she found the strength to turn away, Hudson wiped her lips with the back of her hand. Ari glanced down again. The edge of the fabric rose above her navel, revealing the rippling muscles she remembered from the shower.