Chosen Heart (The Hart Series)

by Stewart, Ann

  Dressed and overwhelmingly satisfied with my reflection, I make my way to the kitchen to pour myself a glass of Sangria to calm my nerves. I don’t normally drink alone, but I’ve been on pins and needles since five, waiting for our night to begin.

  Reading his text from earlier, I’m startled as the doorbell rings. I guess the Sangria didn’t work, after all. I blush again, really hoping he fulfills his promise. Placing my hand on the doorknob, I peek through the peephole, and I’m floored. Dressed in a dark grey blazer, light blue button up shirt, and dark grey slacks, he stands casually with his hands in his pockets. Taking a moment, I rest my forehead against the door. You will be okay, Elyssa. You deserve some fun in your life. I take a deep breath and open the door. His insatiable smile breaks all of the tension I’ve had for the past few hours.

  Eyes hungrily surveying every inch of my body, head to toe, his perfect dimpled smile lets me know he approves. Walking in, Alex takes my hand and raises it, twirling me in the process to get a better look. “God, that mannequin didn’t do the dress justice. If I knew you’d look this incredible, I may have thought twice before buying it.”

  Confused, I look over my dress, smoothing out the skirt. Alex brings me into an embrace as he continues to dote on me. “There’s nothing wrong with the dress. It’s just that now, I’ll be aware of everyone else looking at you all night. It’s going to drive me crazy. I think I may have set myself up to get in at least three fights before we even get to the club.” Tucking a fallen hair behind my ear, every inch of my body must be blushing.

  “Now you know how I feel, how I always feel around you.” Equally confused by my comment, Alex continues to hold me tight against his chest, waiting for my explanation. “Come on, you know you have an equally magnetic affect on all women. I feel like I’m in constant competition for your attention.”

  With a smirk, Alex whispers in my ear, “There’s no competition, Elyssa.” When he whispers in my ear like that, he has a direct line to my sex drive and right now, I’d be happy not leaving the house. “Oh, I almost forgot. I got you something.” He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a perfectly wrapped pink and black gift box, placing it into my awaiting hands.

  “Alex, you’ve already done so much…” Raising his finger to my mouth, Alex silences my argument, brushing his finger over my lips. I quiver at his touch, my eyes flutter.

  “Open it,” his eyes push my attention towards the long, slim rectangular box. If it wasn’t for his bright smile and dimpled cheeks, I may have pushed my argument more, but I can’t resist him. I should have known by the size and weight that he would give me perfume; especially after his distaste with Arianna’s choice of fragrance. He’s nothing, if not thorough.

  Without hesitation, I spray a little on my wrists before applying it to the erogenous zones on my neck and behind my ear. The scent is familiar, with hints of jasmine and honey. It’s sweet and inviting, just like the man who gave it to me.

  Coming closer, Alex runs his nose from my clavicle to my ear and groans in appreciation. “Not only do you look stunning, that scent makes you mouthwatering. I want you, right now.” I shudder, already giving in to his touch. “But, I promised you a night out.” With a wink, Alex grabs my hand, leading me out the door.

  ~~~~~

  The parking lot of Roy’s is busy, which I’m guessing is normal for a Saturday night. I’ve always wanted to go here; I’ve just never had the extra money to splurge on a nice dinner. “Are you looking for an invitation from the parking stall?” I wonder out loud, as we pass the third empty space, heading for the exit. How odd. “What, is your ex here?” I giggle.

  I really wish I wouldn’t have said that, because the look on his face makes me believe that I’ve hit the nail on the head. But, before I can dwell too long, he responds. Placing his hand on my bare knee, Alex runs his hand up and down the inside of my thigh, sending shivers to all of the right places. “No, I just thought of a different place.” Sure you did. But, I can’t complain, or even worry, because I’m with him. Whatever made him change his mind is his problem. I resolve not to bring it up.

  Soon enough, we pull into the valet of the Caso Casino. Alex eagerly exits the car and hands his keys to the valet attendant. Rushing over to open my door, the attendant dutifully offers his hand to help me out of the car. As I stand, I’m taken aback by Alex glare towards the casino employee. I idly wonder what he could have possibly done in the past thirty seconds to upset him, but again decide not to worry about it. Instead, I carefully walk around the car, as Alex takes the slip for the Valet. “I told you, three fights even before the club.” Shaking his head, Alex smirks as he places his hand on the small of my back, leading me towards the entrance.

  “Well, you have me for the rest of the night,” reassuring him as we walk into the Casino. “There’s no competition,” I whisper, repeating his words from moments ago. With his lips slightly parting, he brushes his hand against my bare leg, leaving me breathless.

  Making our way through the casino, and the throngs of patrons, Alex guides me to Bistecca Steakhouse. Another restaurant I’ve always wanted to go to. This has to be one of the best birthday’s ever. From the dress, to the perfume, and now our night; he’s doing so much for me. He must like you, Ely. Stop doubting yourself!

  With his hand still resting on the small of my back, he gestures for me to follow our hostess to a secluded table in the corner. Feeling like the world has disappeared, except for me and Alex, I sit down and marvel at the privacy he has afforded us. Shortly after, the waiter brings us sparkling water along with our menus, and after taking our drink order, he disappears.

  Sitting across from each other, there hasn’t been much conversation all night, but it’s not awkward. It’s nice to enjoy each other’s company without the need to fill the void with unnecessary chatter. Biting my lip, I look up from the menu to notice him staring at me. I blush and decide to bridge the gap between us. “You’re so far away,” I pout. “Is it okay if I move closer?” Alex simply nods and pats the seat next to him.

  As I move closer, the waiter comes back with our drinks and is ready to take our order. Justin tells us the specials, but I’m not paying any attention. Both Alex and I are fixated, staring into each other’s equally intense eyes. Once he’s done rattling off the specials, Alex nods at me, letting me know I should order. Not ordering for me today, huh? With a sly smile, we both place our order, and once again we are left alone.

  With our booth being discretely tucked away, I can’t help but wonder if Alex specifically asked for this seat. Is this his way of keeping us a secret? Oh, who cares! Leaning over, Alex places his hand on my knee and whispers, “Happy Birthday, Hart.” His lips brush against my ear, causing my breath to hitch. His closeness, his scent, his breath…everything about him makes my insides shake.

  “Thank you for tonight, Alex,” I breathe, barely able to contain myself. “All of this, it makes me feel…special.” Staring at me, he licks his bottom lip and continues to smile.

  I quickly take a drink, trying to quench the hunger building inside. Alex’s hand is still on my knee, but like before, his strong fingers begin to stroke the inside of my thigh. This time, his fingers don’t stop. I gasp with my glass still on my lips, as they make their way up to the apex of my thigh. Alex continues to gaze at me in silence, as an unexpected moan escapes my parted lips. Not sure what my face is revealing, my body tells him to keep going, but my mind…oh, screw my mind!

  By the time his fingers reach the base of my thigh, I’ve already peeled my eyes away from his to look around. I had to make sure no one can see our table. Biting my lip, my breath is short and quick; the anticipation of his touch, his breath on my shoulders. I’m just thankful no one can see the look on my face.

  Except for the waiter.

  “Do you need anything?” Justin inquires. Alex doesn’t pull his hand away, instead pushes closer to my panties, easily spreading my legs apart. Placing my hand on top of his, I slow his movement. I can’t imagi
ne Alex unraveling me in front anyone, especially not our waiter.

  With a scowl, Alex looks up at him, “Unless you’re bringing our food, don’t bother us again.” Justin takes the hint, leaving immediately.

  CHAPTER 9

  “What do you think you’re doing?!” I pant, my eyes shooting over to the other tables, full of people enjoying their meals. Even though we’re discretely tucked away, I know it doesn’t mean we’re alone. But, I can’t help but notice that everyone seems to be unaware and involved in their own conversations. Who am I kidding? I’m far from minding his bold gestures of affection, in public of all places. His touch makes me feel desired, and I couldn’t stop it even if I wanted to. Which I don’t.

  He smirks at me. “Does this bother you?” I shake my head blushing, giving him an invitation to move closer. I close my eyes and hear a sharp intake of air, as his fingers find the edge of my panties, pushing them to the side. Whispering in my ear, he breathes, “I want you. I’ve never wanted anyone, like I want you.”

  With his declaration, two of his fingers slip inside of me, making me gasp for air. Pushing in and out, he places his other hand at the base of my neck, holding me still. Clasping my right hand over his, I want him to stop, but I can’t seem to make him. The movement feels too good as his fingers massage my insides. Gripping my hand over his, I help him push deeper…inside and out. He continues to torture me, building my climax…suddenly he stops, pulling his fingers out to rest on my thigh. What? Why? Just as I open my eyes, I see him licking his fingers. Oh my God. And then, Justin enters with our sizzling appetizers. This waiter is infuriating.

  The remainder of the dinner, Alex doesn’t touch me. I know what he’s doing, and trust me its working. As the night progresses, I crave him even more. We eat, drink and talk as I try to ignore the dull ache between my thighs.

  Our conversations are light, revolving mostly around his grandmother and Rachel. You know, the basic discussions of a budding relationship. But, as our main course arrives, our discussion is replaced by indulgence. Not only for our dinner, but for each other, as well. His eyes, the way they roll over my body and fixate on my mouth and breasts, makes me salivate with need. I can’t believe how shameless I’ve been with him. Reluctantly, I decide to be good and only fantasize, instead of acting upon my desires. At least for the time being.

  ~~~~~

  Walking out of the restaurant, Alex abruptly stops. “Elyssa, as much as I want to take you home and fuck you into submission, I have more plans for you tonight.” If it was any other man, his dirty mouth would have offended me. But, with the way the words roll off his tongue, I’m unable to find any coherent words to say any different. I nod, holding onto his elbow to steady myself. He smirks, pulling me in so close that I can feel his erection on my hip. Unfortunately, as soon as he recalls where we are, he removes himself from our tight embrace, leaving me bereft.

  “Since we’re already here, I figured we could go to Suscita. It’s on the top floor and the view is breathtaking.” Even with his slight lapse in judgment, his excitement leaves me even more energized. Deciding to forget his momentary mistake, I thank him with my genuine smile as he leads me in the direction of the elevators.

  To say the ride up to the 46th floor was thrilling would be a gross understatement. Being the only ones in the elevator, except for the operator, Alex digs his ever growing erection into the small of my back, kissing my neck from behind. Not wanting to be outdone, I decide to have playtime of my own. Reaching behind me, I massage his thick erection through his trousers. Quickly, his kisses are replaced with moans and panting, making me even more aroused. I would normally be more concerned with the thoughts of the elevator operator, but hearing Alex so turned on by my touch, well that has clouded my judgment. What operator?

  The elevator comes to a halt and I release my hand from his now rock hard erection. My hand doesn’t get too far though, as Alex grabs it leading me out into the blast of loud music. The DJ is playing an eclectic arrangement of music and after he talks to the hostess, we’re seated right away at a private table.

  Settling down, I notice that once again, we are tucked away from everyone. My insides are reeling from earlier and know he will touch me again; it’s just a matter of when. A waitress wearing next to nothing in a bikini top and boy shorts takes our drink order. I can’t help but steal a glance at Alex, checking to see if he notices her provocative outfit. But my worries are quickly put to rest, catching his smoldering eyes staring into my soul. We order the same thing we did at dinner and Alex dismisses the waitress.

  Music thumping all around us, I take in my surroundings. The energy excites me in a way I didn’t know was possible. Throngs of people smashed against each other, grinding to the exhilarating music. This is shaping up to be the best birthday, ever.

  Sipping my martini, I start to sway to the pounding beat. The music is loud, but at an enjoyable decibel, and I’m sitting next to the hottest man in the club. Compelled, we both stand in unison as Alex starts to creep backwards onto the dance floor. He managed to discard his jacket, and lucky for me he looks even more delectable in his blue dress shirt and gray slacks. My pulse is racing; I can feel my heartbeat quicken at the mere sight of him.

  Staring straight into my eyes, I watch his mouth move as he sings in unison with the piercing music. Pulling me in closer, his mouth against my ear, he whispers, “Show me what you got.” Pulling me deeper onto the dance floor he continues to sing along with the music, putting me into a harmonious trance.

  I’m blushing from head to toe, but I can’t resist him. He has such a deep, sexy voice. Even though the music is pulsing all around us, I can hear him. We’re in our own private bubble. I feel his lips moving against my ears and I wiggle against his body, yearning to be closer to him.

  Answering my unspoken desire, Alex pulls me closer allowing us to grind and move together, in sync. Raising my arms so that my hands are resting on Alex’s neck, I begin to roll and move against his body. Tilting my head to the side, Alex brings my mouth to his, deepening our kiss as his hand move along my body. I can feel how I’m affecting him, making me even more aroused. If that’s even possible.

  Not able to resist any longer, he grabs my wrist, pulling me towards our private booth. Closing the plush velvet curtains around the table, he gently tugs me towards the posh green couches. Deftly, he pushes the table away from us, at the same time pulling me into his lap. Seductively looking into my eyes, I straddle his legs, just like the night before. Looking into his blazing indigo irises, I see his impious desire and I know what he wants. It’s what I’ve wanted all night. I’ve only known him for two weeks, but his erection beneath me makes me forget about timeframes. Leaning down, I unleash everything I am, taking his mouth into mine. The sweetness of the alcohol met with our sweat and desire…hmmm.

  Grinding against him, I fist my hands in his unruly hair, mindlessly listening to Usher’s Scream in the background. The beat of the song makes me even hotter and I can’t stop my assault. Seeing Alex’s face basked in euphoria pushes me to unleash my inner goddess as I continue to sway with the music. I’m overcome with pure confidence and with each moment that passes, I want him more. Gracefully, he lifts me so I’m standing in front of him, and even though we’ve lost the physical connection, it doesn’t bother me. It gives me a chance to dance. To dance for him.

  Surrounded by curtains, our tiny portion of the club is completely dark. Although I can barely see him, I know his eyes are taking in my every movement. I continue to dance provocatively in front of him, feeling freer than I’ve ever felt. Turning around so my back is to his front, I twist and roll to the music. Placing my hands on his knees, I bend over and grind against his waist.

  Just as I’m on my second dip, my dancing is abruptly halted. Spinning me around, he slips his hands under my short dress. Dragging my hips towards him, he gently spreads my legs so I’m once again kneeling around his lap; around his arousal. So quick, that if I even wanted to stop him, I wouldn’
t be able to, he moves my panties aside and unexpectedly slips deep inside me. My eyes shoot open. I’m trembling as he slowly circles and moves inside of me, filling me deep.

  Taking my face into his large hands, his eyes search my face for assurance. “Is this okay? Do you want me to stop?”

  Breathless I groan, “Yes! No!” That is all I can get out before his lips are on mine, effectively silencing me. The only sound is our heavy breathing and Usher screaming in the background. My head thrashes back and I cry out in pure joy and ecstasy. For the second time in as many days, this delicious man is inside me; deep inside and it feels so right. Because I want this too, I start to move with the music, each tantalizing thrust pushing sensation throughout my body.

  Wait…What am I doing? Abruptly I stop and look around, at what I don’t know because it’s so damn dark; all I can see is Alex. Looking up at me, still inside, his words rush at me in a half-scream, “What’s wrong? I thought…”

  “I do, but…fuck. We’re at the club!” I gasp, still panting. “We’re going to get in trouble.”

  “Not unless we get caught!” Swiftly he pulls out of me and twists me around so that my back is facing his front again. Grabbing my hips, he pulls me back so I’m sitting on his lap, his legs in-between mine. I’m barely holding onto his knees when he tenderly extends his long fingers around me, underneath my skirt, and starts to unravel me with his hands, pulling me closer to his pulsing erection, closer to my climax.

  ~~~~~

  Leaving the club, I can barely walk. My knees are weak and I am sore, but with absolutely no complaints. My muscles ache, not only from the dancing, but from the shameless public sex I just had with the man of my dreams. Alex hands the Valet the ticket and we wait in the porte-cochere. Not able to stay in my shoes for another moment, I place my hand on Alex’s shoulder for balance. Steadying my balancing act, I’m met with his warm arms wrapped around my waist. Thankfully, he’s not opposed to 2:00 a.m. public embraces. We don’t have to wait long. When his car pulls up, he walks me over to the passenger side, opening my door. It’s intimidating how possessive and eager he is to take care of me. I saunter over, kiss him on the cheek and slide into the seat. Moving effortlessly, I watch him walk around the car, open the door, and ease into the seat next to me.