by Martha Woods
“Like I said, I wanted to protect you. You’re so young and innocent. It would be unfair of me to drag you into my world. Yet I can’t fight my attraction for you anymore.”
She took a step closer to him. “There you go again, not making any sense. What do you mean your world? As far as I can see, you have a pretty charmed life.”
“Yes, as far as you can see.”
She wanted to ask him what he meant but first… “So, you’re attracted to me?”
Skylar gazed into his eyes and it felt like she was spiraling head first into a sea of green. “I would say it’s a bit more than attraction.”
“How so?”
He shrugged. “I have a very possessive nature.”
Skylar shivered when his eyes darkened. Raw desire and the promise of passion could be seen in their depths. Excitement coursed through her veins as she waited to see what he would do next. But he didn’t move. Instead, he remained still, his eyes still on her. She did the only thing that came to her mind. She stepped closer, covering the slight distance between them and kissed him. That triggered him into action and his fingers bunched in her hair, forcing her head back so he could deepen the kiss.
His movements were rough, and she kissed him back with the same hunger. The sexual tension that had been simmering beneath the surface for weeks, erupted to consume them both. In the back of Skylar’s mind was a vague, sane thought. Maybe things would be awkward between them as employer and employee if they went too far but his hands on her bare skin drove the thought away and she was lost. Only then did she realize that her blouse had been removed. She pulled her mouth from his to glance down and saw buttons scattered on the carpet.
“Hey, I loved that top.”
“Sorry, it was in my way.”
Liam shrugged his shirt over his head and she forgot about her destroyed top. Sinewy muscles bunched with each movement and her mouth literally watered. “Wow,” she whispered. “You are a work of art.”
With a chuckle, he lifted her and made his way to his desk. Before setting her down, he swept most of the contents to the floor.
“I think those were very important documents,” Skylar whispered, running her hands over his bare chest and chiseled abdomen. She could worship his body all day.
“Mhmm.” His head dipped and he took a nipple into his mouth, nearly making her jump out of her skin.
“Liam,” she gasped. His tongue on the sensitive flesh sent arousal shooting through her, making moisture pool between her thighs. Skylar didn’t know how to tell him that she wasn’t experienced so she opted to keep it to herself.
He removed her pants and underwear while feasting on her breast. He stopped long enough to run his gaze appreciatively over her naked body. “Beautiful,” he whispered.
Skylar flushed and nibbled her lower lip as she watched him remove the rest of his clothes. Her breath hitched when his impressive erection jutted in her direction. She couldn’t take her eyes off of it until she heard him chuckle. Looking up she asked, “What?”
“Why do you look so worried?”
She gave a nervous giggle. “I’m not.” She let out a breath. “What are you waiting for?”
He stepped between her thighs and pulled her closer, until her ass was at the edge of his desk. “Next time, I’ll take things slow. I promise.” The tip of his length hovered at her entrance.
Skylar’s breathing escalated. She was excited by the fact that there would be a next time and that she was very close to losing her virginity. And unlike like last night with Cayden, it felt right. He murmured something that she didn’t catch.
“What was that?”
“Does he make you feel the way I do?” Tormented eyes, sparkling with jealousy, stared down at her.
“Huh?” Confusion clouded her mind until it dawned on her who he was talking about. “Liam, I didn’t -” She gasped as he pushed forward, breeching her entrance. A sharp pain shot through her but quickly disappeared.
He froze and let out an expletive. “Sky?” Confusion and shock played across his features.
“I was about to tell you that I didn’t do anything with him,” she croaked.
“Why didn’t you tell me you were a virgin?”
Were they really going to discuss that now? She wiggled her hips experimentally and he sucked in a sharp breath. “Please keep going, Liam.” Her arms wound around his neck and she pressed her lips to his.
He let out a groan and began to move slowly. His body shook and she knew he was holding on to his control. The foreign feeling of being filled completely by Liam turned into unthinkable pleasure. His slow possession of her was driving her wild and she wanted more. She began to move, meeting his slow thrusts, silently begging for more. Her name spilled from his lips as a tortured moan.
“Keep still, woman. I don’t want to hurt you.”
“You won’t,” she panted. “Stop holding back.”
Her soft plea snapped what shred of control he was holding on to and with a growl, his wild nature took over. His hips surged back and forth rapidly as he buried himself deep in her warmth. Her mewls of pleasure in his ear nearly drove him over the edge and he had to push down his wolf’s urge to show itself and dominate. Burying his face in her neck so she wouldn’t witness the yellow glow of his eyes, he maintained his pace, driving into her until her inner muscle clenched around him.
Skylar was in a world of sheer pleasure and it felt like it was about to get better because she felt warmth spreading in her core until the heat spread throughout her entire being taking her to a high that she had never reached before. Her nails dug into his shoulders as she convulsed, calling his name over and over.
When he gave one final thrust and let out a guttural groan, she felt aftershocks of pleasure moving through her. She clung to him, not wanting to let go and very much wanting to experience another intense orgasm like the one she just had.
Liam, breathing just as hard as she was, managed to make it to the couch and drop down, taking her with him. She straddled his hips and they remained connected. Finally, the blissful haze cleared and Skylar lifted her head from his shoulder to look at him. Neither said a word for a long time. They simply stared at one another in wonder.
Finding her voice, she asked, “Why the hell did we wait so long to do that?”
Liam grunted. “Because I was being an idiot.”
She pursued her lips, attempting to swallow her smile. “I’m not going to argue with you there.”
He pinched her backside, making her yelp. “I’m still your boss.”
“Yeah and you owe me a blouse, boss.”
He frowned when she pushed away and stood up, grabbing her torn blouse from the floor. “What’s wrong?”
Running a hand through her hair, she turned to him. “You’re right, I still work for you. While sex with you is the most incredible thing I have ever experienced in my life, I don’t want things to get too complicated. I can’t lose this job, not right now.”
His jaw clenched. “Because you’re in trouble and you won’t tell me what kind.”
“I’m not in any -”
“Cut the crap, Sky. I pay attention. To you.”
“Well, it’s not like you don’t have secrets too. I pay attention to you too.” She sighed. “Are we really going to argue after… that?” She pointed to the desk.
Liam reigned in his temper. “Let’s not.”
“So what happens now?”
He grasped her chin, tilting her face up to lock gazes with her. “It doesn’t matter what happens. Just know that you are mine now.”
Skylar’s breath hitched in her chest as she gazed up at him. His emerald eyes darkened with possession and a hint of something untamed. She shivered as a strange combination of fear, excitement, and surrender rushed through her.
Chapter 9
Liam stiffened and held his breath while Skylar fixed his tie. She had taken him by surprise when she walked up to him with a smile and took the piece of silk into her hand. Her
proximity made his wolf claw at his insides, trying to get closer to the owner of the sweet smell that made him go wild. Mine, the wolf growled.
No, not yours. Pipe down. Liam fought for control of the beast and won. The beast hiding under the surface had been clawing to come out since laying eyes on Skylar a month ago. It was getting more difficult with each passing day in her presence. He had convinced himself that she was a distraction he didn’t need and had ignored the way being near her made him come alive. He stared at the top of her blonde head with a frown, which he quickly wiped away when she looked up.
“There, perfect.” she beamed.
“Thank you,” he said hoarsely.
“No problem. So, are we all set to go?”
“Sure.”
She whirled around and rushed to the door. “I need to get my purse from my room.” She glanced over her shoulder. “Thanks again for the dress.”
He shrugged. “No problem.”
He’d spent at least two hours yesterday trying to get her to accept the dress and shoes she now wore. She had been adamant that she couldn’t accept such expensive gifts until he had convinced her that it was purely selfish because he wanted her to look nice since she would be by his side. And she was doing him a favor by agreeing to go to the party that one of his business associates kept every September all the way in New York.
Skylar reappeared holding up a small silver clutch purse. “Got it.”
He took another look at her and was robbed of breath just like he was the other hundred times he had looked. She was vision in a red gown that hugged her torso and flared at the bottom, with a deep split that showcased way too much leg now that he thought of it. He would most likely spend the night fending perverts off of his personal assistant. She smoothed her hair that was caught up in an intricate twist with tendrils framing her face.
“Well, boss. Will I do?” She held out her arms and twirled.
Liam cleared his throat lightly. “You’ll more than do, Sky. You look beautiful.” He nearly added “As always” but caught himself.
She tilted her head and studied him curiously. “Thank you.”
As usual, a blush colored her cheeks making her even more adorable. He scowled at the thought. “Let’s go,” he growled.
She frowned, no doubt confused by his sudden change in mood. Liam stifled a sigh. She must think he was bipolar by now. This was how he had been behaving for the past weeks. He had too much to contend with already with his family and work, and it was driving him crazy that he was attracted to a woman he couldn’t have. And he really couldn’t have her because what would he tell her if they got involved? Honey, I forgot to tell you, I’m not human. He chuckled inwardly.
They made their way to the front of the hotel where a limo was waiting for them. “Wow, we’re arriving in style. It must be some party.”
Liam nodded to the driver who held the door open and slid in beside her. “The person throwing it is a bit extravagant. More than a bit. Arriving in style will help us to fit in with the cool kids,” he added with a smirk.
Skylar gasped and clutched her chest dramatically. “Liam Conway, making a joke?” She glanced out the window. “I don’t see any pigs flying.”
“Funny. I wasn’t always a scrooge you know.”
She glanced at him. “No? What happened to turn you into one?”
His eyes flew to her face, easily making out her interested expression in the semi-dark vehicle. “Life,” he replied. His tone warned her not to ask another question. He heard her sigh and then fall silent.
Liam stole glances at her, wanting to get another conversation going. It was surprising since he was a man who appreciated silence. For some reason, he liked hearing Skylar talk, or maybe it was how animated she was when she spoke that appealed to him.
“Have you been to New York before?” he asked.
“I lived here until I was about seven, actually.”
That peeked his interest. Of course, everything about her interested him.
“Oh, you moved to Miami from here at seven?”
“No, my Mom and I moved to Pennsylvania first.”
This was the first time she had spoken of family. He frowned. She seemed to like the type that came from a big, rowdy, happy family. That was what her personality indicated, but maybe he was being stereotypical.
“Just you and your mother?”
She glanced at him with a smile. “Yes, it was just us girls for a while. My dad was - um, he wasn’t really around. My mom and I moved around a lot until we settled in Miami. We were okay there for a while and then she got sick.” Her voice trailed off as she stared out the window. “Sorry, I’m doing it again, aren’t I? Talking too much.”
Liam was staring at her and quickly drew his eyes away. “No, it’s fine.” He wanted to know more. “Your mother is ill? Is she still in Miami?”
“No,” she answered softly. “She passed away months ago. I was alone after that so I was thrilled to pack up and travel all the way to Wisconsin.”
He nodded. “I’m sorry.”
“It’s okay. I wish cancer hadn’t taken her from me so soon, but I appreciate the time I had with her.”
“I’m going to lose my mother as well.”
Her eyes flew to his face and he stifled a groan. Now why had that just slipped out? It wasn’t his desire to share details of his life with anyone and he certainly wasn’t looking for sympathy, but Sky was just so easy to talk to and easy to be around.
“What do you mean?” she asked.
Liam sighed. “She only has months to live. Cancer.” The word hung in the air. She of all people understood the gravity of the single word.
“Oh my, Liam. I’m - well, I suppose saying I’m sorry won’t help, will it? How are you?”
He lips lifted slightly. “You’re the only person to ask me that. I’m dealing with… everything.”
It wasn’t just his mother. It was his entire life that he had to deal with. A small hand covered his and squeezed. He tensed initially but quickly relaxed. When she removed her hand, he found that he missed the contact. They slipped into silence once again, but this time it was a comfortable silence.
* * *
Liam couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. Skylar knew no one but him in the crowded ball room, yet she chatted and laughed easily with everyone. He had come to learn that she preferred a simple life yet she fit right in with the glitz and glamor tonight. People seemed drawn to her and wanted to talk to her. And who could blame them?
He, on the other hand, who should be used to all of this by now, since he had been coming to Alexander’s party for years, felt out of place. He always did. Sure, he had as much money as everyone else in the room, but that didn’t mean he wanted to rub elbows with them.
His wolf raged inside of him. The many cloying scents of expensive perfume and sweat were driving it crazy. There were too many bodies brushing against him, warm blood and flesh within reach. Liam swallowed. When was the last time he hunted raw meat and blood? He’d spent too long consuming only human food, and now he was paying the price. God, he was hungry. His predatory nature was roaring to life and the room was full of prey.
“Liam, are you okay?”
Skylar’s concerned voiced pulled him back from his hungry haze. “I’m fine.”
She didn’t look convinced. “Are you bored? You totally zoned out. I’m guessing this isn’t really your scene.”
He forced out a half smile. “You got me.”
Giggling, she took hold of his hand. “Let’s dance. That will take your mind off the boredom.”
“What? No, I don’t dance.” She was already pulling him toward the center of the room, were several couple were already moving to a slow tune. “God damn it, Sky,” he growled. “I said I don’t -”
She stopped and threw her arms around his neck and that shut him up immediately. Sparkling blue eyes, dancing with mischief and amusement stared up at him.
“You were saying?” She wore a smug expressi
on.
Only then did he realize that his arms had instinctively found her tiny waist and he was already swaying with her to the music. Liam tried his best to deliver a withering glare but failed. His lips twitched. “I didn’t know I could dance.”
Skylar giggled. “There’s nothing to it, boss. Just relax and feel the music.”
Oh, he was feeling something alright. Her breasts crushed against his chest and her pelvis brushing against his. She closed her eyes and threw her head back and Liam had a vision of her naked on top of him with her head thrown back and eyes closed just like that. He sucked in a breath and fought for control of his body before his eyes began to glow and his canines lengthened. I’m in a crowded room. I’m in a crowded room, he chanted.
“So, what is this shindig all about? I didn’t take you for the type to come to a party.”
Glad for the distraction of a conversation, he glanced down. “My business associate, Alexander Scott, throws this party every year. He claims it’s for his wife’s birthday, but everyone knows he’s just showing off by throwing money around.”
Skylar snickered. “I see.”
“As for me attending, it’s the least I can do since I turn down every other invitation to hang out with the boys.” Playing golf and partying on yachts weren’t his cup of tea. “I can’t appear too antisocial.” Skylar chuckled and leaned her head on his shoulder.
By the end of their dance, he was sweating slightly and his cock twitched in his pants, which he willed to behave. Liam let out a relieved breath when Skylar pulled away.
“See, your first dance wasn’t so bad, was it?”
It actually was but only because being so close to her almost caused him to lose control. He couldn’t even focus on the stupid dance because all he had wanted to do was rip the lovely dress from her body and claim her.
“No, not bad at all,” he murmured. “How about a drink now?”
“Okay.” She placed her hand over his arm and allowed him to lead her through the crowd.