His Girl Friday

by Ellen March

  Tariq gave a loud chuckle. “Ah, so that’s the woman you kept speaking about, the one no man would want?” He rose to his feet and gave him a friendly pat on his back. “You want to keep her to yourself?”

  “It’s not like that.” Roman shook his head and tried to explain, but was unsure how. What he did know was that he didn’t want Tariq anywhere near her, especially after the last words she’d thrown at him.

  “Oh, no,” Paul said, thoroughly enjoying Roman’s discomfort. “Sally hasn’t got a boyfriend. She’s as free as a bird.”

  Roman glared at him, wishing he’d shut the hell up, whilst Tariq tilted his head thoughtfully. “Interesting,” he said, his eyes darkening.

  * * *

  Sally was just about to leave her room when the mobile rang and Norma’s name flashed up.

  “Hi.” She tried not to yawn. After the night she’d had, she was shattered.

  “Well, have you got what I need to run a spread on him?” As usual, Norma was direct, without any preamble.

  “Yes and no,” mumbled Sally, making her decision. Right or wrong, she was saving his ass.

  “Talk sense, will you?” Norma snapped down the phone.

  “I have it, but I’m not going to give it to you.” There. At last the words were out. No matter what he was like, he didn’t deserve a stab in the back from her. At the end of the day she really wouldn’t have been able to live with herself.

  “If you don’t give me what I want then consider yourself fired!” spat Norma, only too aware how much Sally relied on her job.

  “You don’t need to. I quit!” Sally flicked the phone shut and threw it onto the bed. Making a fist, she pulled down her arm triumphantly. “Yes!” she cried. For once in her life she’d stood up to the she-devil. It wouldn’t be until later that she’d worry about paying for her flat. She hoped she’d find another job soon, because her monthly pay from Roman, lucrative as it was, wouldn’t last long.

  When Sally walked into the kitchen, it was the first time Roman had seen her in her new clothes. He sucked in his breath and swallowed uneasily. She oozed sex appeal, and for the first time he wished she was back in her old clothes, hidden behind her dark glasses.

  “Hello.” She smiled, greeting Tariq. Her long legs were clearly evident in the short, fitted skirt that clung to her hips. The loose blouse plunged deep on her chest. While it didn’t show her breasts, the shirt complemented their tantalizing shape. Roman felt himself respond, his cock hardening, and glanced over towards Tariq. He was only too aware of his penchant for beautiful women.

  “My pleasure.” Quickly rising, Tariq kissed her hand, his lips lingering, whilst his dark eyes hooked upwards in appreciation. “Are you the woman who danced for me last night?”

  Sally blushed, unused to so much attention. She glanced towards Roman, read the anger in his face, and turned away.

  “Then I would be deeply honoured if you would dine with me tonight.” Still holding her hand, Tariq let his gaze melt over her.

  “Tariq,” Roman growled, stepping forward.

  Tariq tilted his head at him in question, then at Sally. “You belong to Roman?” He needed confirmation. He didn’t want to upset his host, and he wondered if he’d misheard him earlier. Surely this wasn’t the woman no man could want?

  “I belong to no man. Roman is merely my boss, nothing more.” She shot him a glare, wondering how he could have the audacity to meddle in her life. It was okay for him to sleep with any woman he wanted, but when a man showed interest in her she was supposed to say no? Too many double standards, she thought with resentment.

  Tariq paused and considered each of them in turn. “Good,” he eventually said. “I’ll see you at seven, if that’s convenient for you?”

  Sally didn’t look at Roman, but glanced at Paul, who gave her a slight nod and thumbs up. “Yes, I’ll be looking forward to it.”

  Tariq had a wickedly sinful smile on his face. After slowly kissing the inside of her wrist, he reluctantly dropped her hand. “Until then,” he whispered, his eyes full of promise. Then he glanced at Roman. “I need to sort out that business we were discussing, so I’ll see you later.” With one last look at Sally, he turned and left.

  Roman gulped down a heady surge of pure rage. He was shaking in temper when he grasped her by her arm. Almost dragging her with him, he pulled her out of the kitchen and onto the patio.

  Paul grinned, relieved to see that Sally was heeding his advice. It was having a devastating effect on Roman—much more, in fact, than he could have ever hoped for. The only thing he’d had a problem with was when she’d asked him to describe how to give a blow job. But she’d insisted and he’d obliged. With a smidgeon of a naughty smile, he wondered how she’d got on.

  * * *

  “What do you think you’re doing?” Sally yelled, trying to pull away from Roman’s vice-like grip. He stopped suddenly, and she cannoned into his hard body.

  “I don’t want you going out with Tariq tonight.” He glared down at her, not sure if he wanted to kiss her or throttle her. “I know him well, and he won’t be expecting just a meal, trust me.”

  “Well, excuse me, but that’s a bit rich coming from you,” she spat, her green eyes flashing dangerously. “It’s fine for you to take my virginity and dump me but not for your friend to wine and dine me?”

  “I didn’t take anything you weren’t willing to give,” he snarled, hurt and angry. Her words hit home. “And you were so keen you’d have given it to the first man who asked.”

  Sally’s arm swung out, and she hit him with a resounding slap across his face. Roman didn’t move. He still held onto her.

  “I deserved that. Sorry. I didn’t mean it,” he eventually said, realizing his temper was overriding any common sense.

  “I really don’t care if you meant it or not. You have no say over anything I do, especially when it comes to who I decide to go to bed with!” she yelled, giving full rein to her own temper. “And if Tariq wants extras, then who the hell am I to refuse him?”

  “Sally, I’m warning you,” he threatened, his face darkening. His grip on her arm tightened.

  “You can warn all you like. I’m going!” she screamed, stamping her foot in frustration. Originally she had intended to make an excuse and back out of the date. She’d accepted mainly to spite Roman. But now it was a matter of pride.

  “You go with him and it’s over between us,” he said, convinced the threat would work. He was extremely good at emotional blackmail and was prepared to go to any length to keep her from Tariq.

  Sally pushed her hair back, wishing she had her dark glasses to hide her treacherous tears. She also wished she could lose her temper without blubbering. “There is no ‘us.’ There never has been,” she whispered quietly, knowing it was the truth. Roman was incapable of love. It was the one emotion she craved from him, and the one she’d never get.

  Roman stared down at her face. Seeing the tears forming in her amazing eyes, he dropped her arm. He had run out of arguments to convince her, so he stormed off through the kitchen, past an astonished Paul.

  “Keep her the hell away from me!” Roman hissed, his face white. A muscle ticked at the side of his jaw. He clenched his hands furiously and slammed the door behind him.

  Paul sat up, waiting, when Sally hesitantly walked in, wiping at her cheeks. She gave a shaky sigh and dragged in a deep breath.

  “I think I’ve really done it this time,” she whispered.

  Paul shook his head in confusion. He had never seen Roman so angry. In fact, he’d never seen him out of control. But now he seemed to be falling apart at the seams.

  Sally stayed away from Roman for the rest of the day. She’d heard him yelling on the phone, slamming doors, and wasn’t getting in the firing line. Even Antonia had refused to come in after a raging argument with him.

  After glancing at the time, Sally sneaked out of her office and tiptoed up the stairs, determined to reach her bedroom without bumping into Roman. She was relieved
when she closed the door safely behind her.

  Sally rummaged through her new wardrobe and pulled out a dress that she knew would drive Roman crazy. It was just a shame she was wearing it for another man, but she’d decided to use this date as an experiment. She was curious to see if she’d feel the same heady excitement and wild emotions as she did with Roman.

  Checking the time, she knew she couldn’t stay up in her room any longer, and gave one final glance at herself in the long mirror. A hauntingly beautiful stranger stared back.

  She had bunched up her long hair, leaving parts of it to trail down her back. The dress fit her like a second skin, the gaping v-neckline plunging down to reveal her large breasts. They threatened to spill over and break the thin straps that kept the bodice in place. It fell to her ankles, but when she moved, the soft black material parted, revealing a long, shapely thigh. It was a garment created for seduction. Clutching her bag, Sally took a deep breath and walked slowly down the stairs.

  Roman was in the lounge when he saw Sally descend the staircase. He felt as if he’d been kicked in the gut. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from her. The material of her dress rippled, giving him an enticing glimpse of a lush thigh. The raw emotion he felt almost choked him and he balled his hands into fists.

  For the first time in his life he didn’t know what to do.

  “My God, you look absolutely beautiful.” Tariq beamed as he walked up to her. He took her hand and kissed her knuckles, lingering over them, enjoying the taste of her.

  Roman coughed loudly and leaned against the door frame. Although he appeared relaxed, his friend Tariq saw the strain in his face and what the little act was costing him.

  At last Tariq smiled at him. Roman had been snared, but he still needed that extra push to get him over the last hurdle. He’d fought against the reins too long to give in easily.

  Placing his arm around her waist, Tariq held Sally close. “Don’t bother waiting up,” he advised Roman with a wink. He heard Roman exhale a stream of angry breath and knew exactly what was going on in his mind. He just hoped Roman could control his temper. Physically, Tariq was no match for him and he was glad his bodyguards were close.

  Sally blinked nervously at Roman. One part of her hoped he wouldn’t do or say anything, but the other part wished he’d show he cared.

  “Come along. I’ve got a very nice restaurant booked for us, and afterwards, well, you can decide.” Tariq said it loud enough for Roman to hear. Let him think on that, he thought with a grin, thoroughly enjoying himself. He decided to find out if this Sally really was the one for him.

  * * *

  Sally nervously picked at her food. “Don’t you get fed up with people staring at you?” She wasn’t comfortable with his minders. Although they seemed discreet, their sheer intimidating size advertised what they were.

  “I’ve grown up with it,” he said. “So, what about you? Don’t you get fed up with your male admirers?”

  Sally gave a genuine, throaty laugh. “Are you serious? You really are funny.” She took a sip of wine and smiled at him, then cringed when she put down the glass and it tipped over.

  Tariq signalled to a waiter to mop up the wine, then settled his attention on her thoughtfully. “So, what is the story between you and Roman?” He twirled his brandy.

  Sally bent her head, intent on examining her fingers, her moment of euphoria evaporating. “There is no story.”

  He placed his hand beneath her chin and raised her head. “Don’t lie to me,” he said softly. “Do you love him?”

  Sally shut her eyes. She didn’t even have to think on it, because she knew the truth. A single tear escaped her eye and rolled down her cheek.

  Tariq touched her tear and brought it to his lips to taste the saltiness. He wished she cried for him. He cursed his friend’s stupidity and blind arrogance.

  “He’s a lucky man,” he whispered, bending his head close to her lips.

  “I doubt he’d agree with you.” Sally opened her eyes and found herself staring into the inky depths of his gaze. Her eyes concentrated on his lips.

  Slowly he bent his head and a small whisper-light kiss caressed her lips. She waited for the feeling, but none came. She opened her eyes. Tariq read her confusion, and knew.

  “You’re a one-man woman, Sally, and I hope your Roman will come to his senses. Because trust me, he does love you.” He traced his finger over her lips before kissing her hand. “Come on, let’s get you home before he goes insane.”

  “He’ll be in bed,” she said shakily. As she rose from the table, his hands curled around her shoulders. His touch felt warm, yet Roman’s was electrifying.

  “Trust me, he won’t,” Tariq said with conviction.

  * * *

  It was late when they entered the dark house. They stood in the large hall beside the lounge door, quietly talking.

  “I want to thank you for tonight. I really enjoyed it,” Sally said sincerely as she looked up into Tariq’s handsome face. He had acted the perfect gentleman.

  “It was my pleasure.” Kissing her hand, he lingered over her knuckles. “Are you sure I can’t tempt you into my bed?” He really wished she’d change her mind.

  Sally blushed and shook her head. “Sorry, Tariq, but no. I ….” She struggled to find the words.

  “I understand. Roman’s the only man you want.”

  Sally didn’t need to speak. Her eyes were sad and forlorn.

  “Well, I hope he comes to his senses.” Tariq kissed her tenderly on her cheek. “Good night, little one. I pray all your dreams will come true. You deserve them.”

  Sally gave a wry grin and shook her head. “No, I’ve prayed for too long and it’s a waste of time. Call it kismet.” At last she understood her friend Yasmin’s philosophy. What was meant to be would be.

  “Shall I walk you up to your room?”

  “No, I need some fresh air.” For some reason she felt ridiculously emotional and wanted to be alone.

  “As you wish.” He bowed his head. “I’ll see you tomorrow, and Sally, thank you once again for a lovely evening.” He watched her walk away before pausing beside the lounge door.

  “Roman, you’re a damn fool if you let her go,” he said under his breath. Shaking his head, he strolled away and listened to the lounge door open and close. He’d known Roman wouldn’t be in bed.

  * * *

  Sally stood outside in the moonlight. The breeze caressed her skin, raising myriads of tiny goose bumps. She welcomed the coolness and thought back to the evening she’d experienced. The one clear fact that stood out was that Tariq didn’t have the ability to excite her like Roman. She wondered if anyone ever would.

  Suddenly she sensed a presence and knew without turning to look that it was Roman. He came to stand so close behind her she could almost taste him.

  “Did you enjoy tonight?” His deep voice breathed close to her ear.

  “Yes I did.” Her arms folded in front of her.

  “Did he touch you?” Roman needed to ask. He couldn’t bear the thought of any man’s hands on her.

  “We kissed,” she admitted, turning abruptly to look up at him. “But it wasn’t the same. There was no excitement, no emotional rollercoaster. It was just bland.” She tilted her head in confusion. “Does that make sense?”

  His hands dropped around her waist, pulling her close. “It makes perfect sense,” he said, his lips inches from hers. “Sal, I don’t know what I feel for you, but I can’t live without you. I’ve been beside myself with jealousy tonight and the thought of you even spending time with another man, well …” his voice quivered, “I just can’t handle my temper.”

  Sally gave a small smile. At least he was making a start, she thought. She stood on her tiptoes and ran her hand down his jaw, then traced her tongue along the edge of his lips.

  Suddenly she was pulled into a bone-crushing grip and a fierce kiss. Her lips were forced apart as Roman thrust his tongue inside. His hands tugged urgently at her clothes.

&
nbsp; “I can’t wait, Sal, I need you now,” he groaned, pulling her to the ground and taking her weight onto his body. He felt the grass damp against his skin as he pushed her dress to the side and ripped at her panties, tearing them off.

  Sally, equally eager, pulled at the buttons of his jeans. They popped open and his engorged cock surged out. Without any hesitation, she mounted him as she felt him plunge upwards. She gripped him by the shoulders as he bucked against her, sheathed deep inside. It was fast, hard sex, and Roman rumbled as he came, Sally following close behind. Collapsing on his chest, she strove to get her breath.

  Roman tenderly stroked her hair. “I’m like a dog in heat mounting you out here, aren’t I?” Part of him regretted his impulsive action. He should have been more tender with her, taken her inside like a proper gentleman.

  “And I’m the bitch welcoming you.” She nuzzled his throat. “Any more where that came from?” she asked cheekily.

  “Honey, we’ve only just started.”

  * * *

  He pulled her to her feet and swept her into his arms, then carried her up to his bedroom. Roman pulled at her dress, letting it pool on the floor, and threw his jeans down beside it. He was eager to feel her close to him, needing her with a hunger that was driving him crazy.

  Sally lay in bed gazing up at him, admiring his physique, her hands splayed over his chest. She ran them down over his rib cage and across his muscled stomach. “You are beautiful,” she said in a breathy voice, unable to believe he was hers. At least for the moment, until he had another radical change of heart.

  Roman rolled to her side and lazily massaged her breasts. For such a slight woman, she had a pair of tits to die for, he thought happily. Grasping them in his large hands, he flicked her nipples, rubbing them until they hardened. He bent and suckled, laving them with his tongue. He lightened his touch and laughed as she pulled his head closer.

  “You like that?” he muttered.

  “Mmmm, so what about this?” Sally countered and dropped her hand down to his raging erection. She listened to him groan out loud. “Am I doing it right?” she asked innocently. “Or maybe this?” She flitted her fingertips behind his balls, her nails scraping across his sensitive skin.