Tempt Me: A First Class Romance Collection

by Jessica Hawkins

  She rides me like a champ. Her breasts bounce at my chin, and I dip down to pull one into my mouth, feeling her clenching and pulling me deeper inside her.

  “So good,” I groan, trailing my fingers lightly along the sides of her ass.

  Her head tilts back, and the ends of her hair tease my fingers. She grinds against me, and I grab her hips, digging my fingers into her skin and holding her so I’m buried so deep, moving her up and down as she moans.

  Sweat trickles down my chest. My hair sticks to my forehead, and I can’t hold out any longer. With a shout I break, orgasm pulsing through my cock into her. She wraps her arms around my shoulders, still rocking her hips until I hear her gasp. I feel the cascade of spasms around me as she comes.

  We’re holding each other through the cyclone of sensation, as our bodies rise and fall on waves of ecstasy. Our rapid breathing synchronizes as we float, holding each other as we come down, satisfied and happy.

  Ruby’s head tilts to the side on my shoulder, and her lips graze my neck. “That was amazing.” It’s a happy whisper, and I smile.

  Catching her under the ass, I slowly stand, carrying her in my arms to the bed. It’s late, and I quickly dispose of the condom before easing us to the center of the king-sized mattress, where we drift to sleep, our bodies entwined.

  When I open my eyes again, it’s after noon. I haven’t slept so long or so soundly in years. Rolling onto my back, I consider the gorgeous creature in my bed. She’s wild and sweet, sexy and sensual. I can’t get enough of her, and fuck me… I remember sometime in the early hours, in the darkness, pulling her to me and sinking into her depths. It was a hot as fuck quickie, and I realize with a jolt I didn’t use a condom.

  She was still asleep with her back to my chest, my arms around her waist. I wasn’t fully awake myself, but it was perfect as fuck. My morning wood arose, and it was like a guided missile.

  Shit. We haven’t discussed our sexual histories, although mine has been nonexistent since Sandy. I literally buried myself in work, neglecting everything, including my personal needs.

  That drought has ended.

  Ruby awakens parts of me that have long been dormant, and now that I’ve had her, now that my body is awake, I’m like a starving man. I can’t get enough of her.

  Still…

  She makes a noise and stretches, and I swear, I’ve got a rail spike between my legs. I’m ready to pin her to the mattress and go to town. I slide away so I don’t poke her with my dick, and she rolls slowly onto her stomach then turns her face to the side, towards me.

  A sleepy smile curls her lips, and she bends her elbow, putting her fingers over her mouth. “Good morning.”

  My stomach floods with heat fueled partly by lust, but even more by pure affection. Her eyes have captured me from the start, but now when I look in them I see her soul, her strength, her independence.

  I want more. I told her last night I don’t want to be friends. I want to make her mine, but I fear she’ll run. She’s told me so many times we can’t do this. I know she only caved because we’re here. It’s a special time. What happens in New York stays in New York.

  Regardless, I don’t think I can stay at arm’s distance. Now that I’m inside her gates, I want her to want me. I want her to come to me and say make me yours…

  And I’ll do it.

  “Good morning.” I smile, and she blinks slowly, studying me with those wise eyes.

  “I had this dream… It was early in the morning and something hard poked me in the ass. Then it moved higher between my legs…” Her teasing eyes narrow, and my stomach tightens.

  “Yeah… I’m sorry. Pretty sure I was still asleep.”

  “We didn’t use a condom.” Her lips press together.

  “You don’t have to worry. I can assure you I haven’t had any sexual partners since Sandy, and even then—”

  “I’m not worried. I’m pretty sure I was complicit in the poking.”

  The memory is hazy, but I do recall her sweet little ass arching into my pelvis. It didn’t take much to glide into her slippery core. As rakish as that may be.

  “I’ll do whatever you need to set your mind at ease. Testing—”

  “No.” She shakes her head, her eyes traveling around my face. “I’ve always been very careful. I’m on the pill. We should be safe.”

  The way she says the word, makes me wonder if she’s thinking the same thing I am. We’re venturing into dangerous territory. Sleeping together takes us to a whole new level.

  I don’t want those worries clouding this time.

  I want to own it. “Are you hungry? It’s too late for breakfast, but if you’re in the mood for another cheeseburger…”

  She starts to laugh and pushes into a sitting position, her back facing me. She has the most beautiful back, long and elegant with black waves sweeping down almost to her ass.

  “I’m going to have to start jogging with you if I keep eating cheeseburgers.” I watch as she disappears into the bathroom.

  “You’re welcome to join me anytime.” She’s welcome into every part of my life.

  I roll onto my back, staring at the ceiling tiles as I envision all the ways she could fit into my world.

  25

  Ruby

  More running around the city follows cheeseburgers at the Shake Shack.

  As much as I hated it, I insisted we cut today short. Listening to Stephen and Remi talk last night, I realized the gala is a pretty massive deal for Remi’s business. He needs to be alert, and I want to look amazing standing at his side… Not like I’m dying of foot pain after running all over Manhattan.

  Standing in front of the closet in my room, I slide my fingers down the silk skirt of my dress. The bodice is held up by a network of straps that goes around my neck and crisscrosses over my bare back down to my waist. I can’t wear a bra, but Ma helped me take it up so the triangle top is held securely over my breasts, and we added a few darts at the waist to keep it from being too poufy.

  The result is it stays close around my torso then opens up into a stunning waterfall of thick ivory silk. It’s stunning and seductive, and I close my eyes as I imagine being in Remi’s arms tonight, his hands sliding over my exposed skin.

  So much warmth floods my body when I think of him, of last night, of this morning. Being with him was so much more than I expected—and I’d fantasized a lot. He’s seductive and possessive, but at the same time, he’s attentive and curious, delicate and demanding.

  He didn’t just make love to my body. He made love to my mind. He didn’t simply chase his own orgasm, letting me work mine out on my own. It was as if he studied my touch, followed the experience of our bodies moving together, savored my kisses.

  Even this morning was hot, grinding out a quickie. He just grabbed me and took it, and I rode along, basking in the heat of primitive desire.

  Like the drop of black in the bright white, a thread of fear trickles through my chest. We can’t possibly go back to the way we were before we came here. Not only do I have to get my own place, I’m not sure I can even work for him anymore. Can I?

  I don’t want to think about this now. I will ignore the twist of fear and focus on this enchanted evening. Anyway, Drew has the solution—direct deposit!

  Exhaling through a nervous laugh, I swallow the tightness in my throat and do a little spin, holding my hands over the rich satin rippling to the floor. Negative thoughts aren’t allowed here. Tonight I’ll let the fantasy play out.

  I’ll be the princess at the ball with the gorgeous prince. I’ll exult in the way he looks at me as if his eyes can’t get enough. I’ll be beautiful for him and we’ll dance and swirl through the clouds.

  My feelings and our problematic reality can stay in Oakville.

  Tonight, it’s all about the dream.

  Remi wanders through the hotel bar looking toe-curlingly handsome in his black tux. I sent a message for him to meet me here, and I came down ten minutes early so I could have a drink and be at t
he bar when he appeared.

  My dress is one of those high-low numbers, so sitting in the chair puts my crossed legs on full display. My hair hangs in thick waves down my back, and I watch as his brow furrows, as he scans the faces.

  The muscle in his jaw moves attractively. He likes being in control, and I’ve tilted him off balance. It makes me smile a little as I watch him. Frustration tightens his expression. I’m right here, sexy prince…

  When his eyes finally land on mine, his expression melts into hot desire and a thrill surges through my stomach. This is so much better than meeting in my room.

  His gaze is fixed on me as he closes the space between us. “You like playing games, Miss Banks.”

  The tone in his voice has my body humming, and when he touches my back, I can’t help a shiver. “It’s not a game, Mr. Key. I wanted to have a glass of wine before we left for the gala.”

  His eyes flicker to the glass of Pinot Gris on the bar in front of me. “No tequila tonight?”

  “Maybe later. I figured we should start out a little more sophisticated.”

  “Don’t get too formal on me.”

  Slipping out of my chair, my heels bring me closer to his eye level. His hands are on my waist, his fingers toying with the bare skin of my back. I’m surrounded by his warmth, the earthy scent of his cologne. It’s heady and exhilarating.

  I straighten his black bowtie, leaning closer to kiss his jaw. “Being formal can be a fun change.”

  A naughty smile curls his lips, that sexy dimple teasing me. “I should have already told you you’re beautiful. I look forward to getting you out of this dress after the party.”

  “Then let’s get the party started.”

  A limo takes us to the gala… Actually, we abandon the car in a long line of limos when we arrive. Remi holds my hand, leading me up the carpeted stairs. He’s obviously distracted by what’s to come. His phone lights up several times as we walk, and while I’m not trying to look, I see Stephen’s name at the top of the screen.

  My hand is in the crook of his arm as we enter the convention hall, and I feel like a queen. It’s an elaborate space. The floors are marble, and the windows soar to the roof, allowing breathtaking views of the city. Chandeliers like icicle waterfalls are dotted throughout, and music floats in the air. I can tell it’s a live jazz band, but I can’t see it through the throng of men and women in formal attire.

  Everyone appears very important and focused. I do my best to keep my shoulders straight and my chin up… like Remington Key’s date should be. He’s as important and connected as all these people, and I don’t want to let him down.

  Leaning against his shoulder, I whisper. “Are you nervous or excited? Personally, I’m scared to death.”

  He chuckles softly. “You have nothing to be afraid of. I’m afraid of all the men who’ll try to steal you from me.”

  “You don’t have to worry. I’m not going anywhere.” My stomach squeezes.

  The words are out so fast, so automatic. I can’t believe I just said them out loud.

  The smile in Remi’s profile eases my anxiety. “Stephen said he’s waiting at the east bar. If you don’t mind, I’ll take you to him while I track down Stellan and secure his business.”

  “Why is Stephen here? Is he an investor or a developer?”

  “Neither and both.” Remi stops to shake an older man’s hand.

  I wait as they exchange brief small talk, then we’re moving again. I can tell Remi’s focused on finding this tech guy Stellan.

  “So Stephen is both?” I pick up where we left off before Mr. Old Guy interrupted us.

  “Stephen likes to be the idea guy, start with his own inspiration then decide whether he wants to create it all himself or hire someone else to do the work. Then he and I and a small group of investors fund the final product.”

  “He sounds really smart.”

  “He’s the smartest guy I know—and trust me, he’s the first to say it. Stephen’s got a big brain, a big ego, and a big bank account.”

  Squinting my eye up at him, I tease. “I take it he doesn’t play well with others.”

  Again, I get that partial laugh. “Not in the slightest.”

  We’re finally through the hall, and I see Stephen leaning with one elbow on a high-top table. He’s also in a tux, and his blue eyes are intense.

  He’s actually very handsome, and I wonder why he doesn’t have a plus one tonight. I think I can guess. No one tells Stephen Hastings what to do.

  Reaching for my arm, he passes me a glass of white wine as he moves me from Remi’s side to his. “Stellan’s just across the room by the bar. If you go now, I think you’ll have him all to yourself.”

  I’m impressed by how slick that handoff was. Remi seems less eager to ditch me, which smooths my ruffled feathers.

  Turning to face me, he touches my arm. “I don’t expect this to take very long. Will you be okay hanging with this asshole for a few minutes? I promise to make it up to you.”

  Pressing my lips into a smile, I step forward to kiss his cheek. “Break a leg.”

  His hands catch my waist, holding me before I return to Stephen’s side. “Thank you for being here.”

  He speaks into my ear before giving me a quick kiss that lights a fire all through my insides.

  When he releases me, he grips Stephen’s arm. “Keep an eye on her.”

  “She’ll be safe as the crown jewels.”

  With that he’s gone, and I turn to face the piercing blue eyes of my guard. “I see you’ve graduated from assistant to… something more fun.”

  Heat floods my cheeks, and I wish my face didn’t betray how flustered I get. “I was never his assistant.”

  “You don’t say.” Stephen’s voice sounds bored. I slant my eyes at him, and he takes a sip of what I assume is vodka. “So you slept with him.”

  He catches me mid-sip, and I almost choke on my wine. “You don’t beat around the bush, do you?”

  “What’s the point?” He half-heartedly pats me on the back. It’s okay. I’m not coughing much. “We’re all adults here. Don’t act like you’re shocked.”

  “I’m not shocked.” I shrug my shoulder. “I guess I’m used to people being a little subtler with their digs.”

  “It wasn’t a dig.” He eyes me up and down. “I appreciate you bringing him out of retirement. Remi was too young to lay down and die like he almost did.”

  “I really don’t know what you mean.” My voice is quiet as I take a sip of wine. It pains my heart to think of Remi wanting to die. “We’ve only known each other about a month. Less than a month, actually.”

  “So how’d you meet? Are you in tech?”

  Inwardly, I cringe. I’m not sure how this confession is going to play out. “He hired me to be the nanny.” That sounds wrong. “To be Lillie’s nanny.”

  Stephen chortles… yes, he literally chortles. “Classic. Remington’s sleeping with the nanny.”

  The way he says it irritates me—probably because it’s the way I expect everyone to say it. “I only took the job to help him out. He was having some sort of conflict with his mother-in-law. It was very frustrating to him.”

  “Eleanor.” Stephen nods, taking another sip. “Dragon lady.” My eyes narrow, and I try to decide if I’m offended. He doesn’t give me the chance. “Oh, please. Everyone’s so ready to get their panties in a knot these days. Eleanor’s not even Asian, but you know what I mean when I say it.”

  I do know what he means.

  “She can be a bit much.” My mind returns home briefly. “I’m going to have to resign. I don’t see how we can go back to having a platonic relationship.”

  He turns, putting both elbows on the table. “In my experience, there’s no putting that genie back in the bottle. What will you do if you’re not Lillie’s nanny? Do you have another position waiting in the wings?”

  Finishing my wine, I shake my head. “I have a master’s in social work. Before I started with Remi, I was a therapist a
t the clinic in town.”

  “So you’ll go back to shrinking heads?”

  “That’s not technically what I did. It’s not really what I want to do again. The idea was I’d figure it out while I worked for him.”

  “Did you?”

  I swallow the knot in my throat. “I got a little distracted.”

  Confessing my lack of direction makes me feel irresponsible, guilty. The crowd is growing thicker, but through the bodies, I see my prince making his way toward us. His entire demeanor has changed. His eyes are bright, and a victorious smile is on his lips. Just the sight of him sweeps the dark feelings away.

  “Good luck with whatever you decide, Miss Banks. I hope it works out for you.” Stephen leans down and air-kisses at my temple. “Thank you again for bringing my boy back from the dead.”

  He leaves me to meet Remi in a handshake. “How’d it go?”

  “I got him.” He passes Stephen and catches me around the waist, lifting me in a squeeze that turns into a spin. “You’re my good luck charm. It’s time to celebrate.”

  Leave it to Remi to find a karaoke bar in walking distance of the gala. I’m sitting in a round vinyl booth in a dim-lit, brick-walled cellar, and he’s onstage belting out “She Believes in Me.”

  He’s singing it with gusto, clutching his chest and going down on one knee for the final words, and I can’t stop laughing. It helps I’ve had several more glasses of wine.

  Stephen is across from me grimacing, and when Remi returns to the table, he complains loudly. “That song is the musical equivalent of a Lifetime movie.”

  “It’s Ruby’s favorite Kenny Rogers song.” He slides in beside me, kissing me long and hard on the mouth.

  He even pushes my lips apart and goes for a little tongue action, which elicits more groaning from our companion.

  “Time to call it a night.” Stephen stands, tossing some bills on the table and pointing at Remi. “I remember when you could hold your liquor.”