by Amy L. Gale
“Yep, in the middle of fifty acres of land. I see enough people on the road.” He brings my hand to his lips, delicately kissing my knuckles.
That makes sense. He’s constantly entertaining people, and then meeting with them after the shows; I can’t blame him for wanting privacy.
We pull up to a large yellow house with a beautiful stone chimney. It’s breathtaking, classic and modern all at once. The cab driver drops us off at the door, wishing Van luck, and refusing to take the fare. We step onto his huge wrap around porch, decorated with hanging baskets and a big wooden swing. This is definitely the type of home I would choose for myself.
“Your house is amazing.” I place my hands on the wooden railings and lean back, looking up at the two-story splendor.
“Glad you like it. I had my cleaning service take care of everything so we can just relax and hang out.” He takes my hands from the railings and guides me toward the door.
We walk into a large open foyer with ceilings at least twenty feet high. I take off my shoes and let my stockings slide along the hard wood, leading me into a giant room with a big screen TV and enormous green leather sectional. The motif is neutral, with a few paintings gracing the walls. I run my hand along the hard leather and continue toward the kitchen and eating area.
Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, all the bells and whistles! The small dining room is perfect for intimate dinners and a music room is more or less required when you’re a touring musician. Does he really need four bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs?
“Wow Van, this is a really big house for one person. You must get lost in here.” I swivel my head, examining the spacious rooms.
“The guys like to hang out here and play since it’s in the middle of nowhere. No neighbors to complain about the noise.” He holds up his finger. “Ah, I haven’t shown you the best part yet.”
Ooh, his bedroom? We follow a trail of lush tan carpet downstairs to a finished basement, separated into three rooms. The only normal room is the bathroom. My eyes widen, finally focusing on a huge theater room complete with a popcorn machine. Add polite to the list of Van’s appealing qualities. It must have been pure torture for him to stay in my tiny apartment. I turn my head and feast my eyes on the third room containing drums, a microphone, two guitars, a large wet bar, three televisions, and a gaming system. Wow, an extreme man cave.
“Very cool! I bet you guys have lots of fun down here.”
“Yeah, but you and I have the place to ourselves. I’m not taking any company.” Van slithers his arms around my waist, pulling me close. “I want you all to myself.”
The doorbell rings.
I jump, slightly startled. “Umm, so much for being alone.”
“No one even knows I’m home yet.” He scratches his temple.
I follow Van back upstairs. He peeks through the blinds before opening the door. A woman with blond hair and a brown bag full of groceries walks inside.
“Hi Sweetheart. Marcus told me you were coming home today, so I thought I would bring over some dinner.” She sets the groceries on the table.
“Thanks, I missed your cooking.” Van hugs her and walks over to me. “This is my girlfriend, Lexie Waters.” He puts his arm around me as he introduces us. “Lexie, this is Leslie Crane, Marcus’s mother.”
“Hello, it’s wonderful to meet you.” I hold out my hand to shake hers, but she smiles and hugs me instead. I finally get to meet the wonderful woman who gave Van love and compassion when he needed it most. She’s an incredible human being.
She pulls a large container out of the bag. “It’s great to meet you too. I hope you like pasta.”
“Mmm, I love pasta.” I could sense the two of them want a minute alone. “I’m going to get settled, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be back in a few minutes.” I walk upstairs and into the bathroom. I can still hear them talking.
“She seems like a very nice girl. I think it’s wonderful that you finally found someone. I can’t believe you have a girlfriend. I had to see it for myself after Marcus told me.”
“Yeah, she took me by complete surprise.”
“Well, that’s usually the way it happens. I’m having a barbecue tomorrow, I hope you’ll both come.”
“Wouldn’t miss it! Thanks again for the food.”
The front door closes. I head out of the bathroom as footsteps get closer.
“Hey, looks like we’re going to a barbecue tomorrow at Marcus’s parents’ house.”
“Can’t wait, I’ve heard great things about Kansas cooking.” I kiss Van softly on the lips and slowly bring my hands over his forearms and up to his shoulders. “Leslie seems really nice. It’s sweet of her to bring you dinner.”
“She just wanted to see if the legendary Lexie Waters really exists.” He moves his hands to my waist and takes a step toward me.
“Wow, I didn’t know my legend precedes me.” I guess with Van’s loner reputation, a girlfriend is big news.
“This house has an interesting history.” He raises his eyebrows and presses his forehead to mine.
Wait, this is new construction. Barely two years old. “What? Ghosts?” I tilt my head.
“None that I know of.” He chuckles and moves his hands up and down my arms. “There’s never been a girl in my bedroom.” He smirks at me.
It’s time to break that trend. “I’m dying to go where no woman’s ever been before.”
“It wouldn’t be the first time you’ve done that.” He lifts my chin and sucks on my bottom lip, taking my hand and leading me forward.
I follow Van through a set of French double doors into a large room. The moonlight blares through the ceiling to floor windows, casting intricate shadows on the king size bed covered in purple satin sheets that fills the middle of the room. A stereo system rests on top of the triple dresser and connects to a large TV nestled inside the armoire. More light shines through a doorway on the far end of the room. I peek around the corner and feast my eyes on the marble and granite bathroom containing the largest whirlpool tub I’ve ever seen indoors. Memories of our sensual baths consume my mind.
“Since I’m the only girl to grace this room, it’s only right to christen it.” My tongue slowly darts out of my mouth and moves along my top lip. I walk toward Van, removing an article of clothing with each step.
Van’s eyes enlarge, focused intently on my body as I continue my escapade. I finally reach him and hook my fingers into the belt loops of his jeans. I yank hard, forcing his body against mine. A low groan stems from his throat, his lips pressed together in a line, slightly upturned. The hidden seductress inside comes out full force. I grasp the hem of his shirt and tear it over his head, exposing the perfectly carved flesh that makes every pore in my body sweat. Our hearts beat fast and furious as I lightly graze my fingernails over each and every curve of his muscular torso, stopping just below his belly button.
I glide my tongue down his chest, continuing over his abs and stopping just where my fingers rest. His smooth salty skin drives my body wild. Every inch of my flesh bursts into an array of electric impulses. The loud groan coming from his throat proves it has the same effect on him. I drop to my knees and fiddle with the button of his jeans. It finally gives. I jerk down the thick denim, tangling his boxers in the fabric and taking them down as well.
My eyes ascend onto the glorious sight in front of me. His head tilted back, eyes closed and hands balled into loose fists. He wants me bad, just as much as I want him. I touch the tip of my nose to his thigh, gently teasing him as my head makes its way up, traced by the slight touch of my fingers. He sighs, wetting his lips. My tongue swirls and spins in an assortment of twists and turns along every inch of him. His body shudders and trembles as I engulf him, sucking slowly and intensely. He grips my shoulders and steps back, releasing my hold.
“If you keep that up we won’t get to christen the bed.” He bends down and kneels in front of me, softly brushing my cheek and moving his hand around to the back of my neck.
>
God, I want him so bad. What was I thinking? Willpower is required to seduce the irresistible.
He tugs my neck toward him, our lips slamming together. A familiar trail of tingles follow the path of his descending fingers from my neck, down my chest, and finally to my waist. He wraps his arms around the tops of my thighs and grips them tightly.
I’m airborne, my hair whisks around, sticking to the glistening skin of my back. I hold onto his neck, trying to balance my weight.
Van lays me on the bed and crawls on top of me, his heart pounding through his chest, sending shockwaves through my core. His hot sweaty forehead presses against mine. “You’re now literally where no woman has ever been before,” he mutters.
Is there a double meaning to that sentence? The cool satin sheets caress my body while the electric sparks flow through me. Drenched strands of hair tickle my neck and shoulders. I run my fingers through the sleek locks, as Van hovers above me. Our eyes lock and a frenzy of passion erupts. Any minuscule speck of willpower that may have existed is nowhere to be found. I heave my body toward him and crash my lips against the soft pink flesh of his. My hands frantically explore every smooth surface of his hard body from head to toe. In a wild craze, my entire state of being flustered, like a shark sensing the slightest drop of blood.
Van holds my hips, steadying me as I sink into the covers. I gasp, desperately trying to catch my breath. He thrusts himself inside me hard, quickly gaining a strong rhythm. I moan and dig my fingers into the hard flesh of his back.
We roll around the purple satin sheets, loving each other in just about every way imaginable. My nerve endings burst out into a rage of euphoria. I yell out and weave my fingers in his light brown strands as my body convulses. He grips the sheets and moans into the calm Kansas night as he explodes inside me. My breath stalls and I try to reorient myself to my surroundings, just an after effect of toe-curling, passion-filled love. Why can’t I stop time and stay in this moment forever?
Complete devastation yesterday and utter euphoria today? Life with Van Sinclair is certainly a roller coaster ride. We lay in the sea of purple for a few minutes, catching our breath.
I prop myself on my elbow and turn, letting my fingertips slightly graze Van’s chest. “It would be a shame to let that pasta go to waste.” I’m sure he worked up an appetite as well.
“You read my mind, let’s go.”
Van microwaves our pasta and sets the table while I slice the Italian bread. Just like a normal, everyday couple. The aroma of fresh garlic and tomatoes flows through the air, turning Van’s house into a summer garden.
I shovel a forkful into my mouth. “I’m in for a treat if the barbecue is half as good as this pasta.”
Van slurps up his spaghetti. “I know. I can’t believe Marcus isn’t fat.”
I pour us each a glass of wine and head outside. That porch swing has been calling me. I sprawl out, lifting my feet onto the swing and nuzzling next to Van. Crickets chirp, singing their unique melody to the creatures of the night. The warm breeze flows through my still damp hair as we slowly rock. I stare out onto the landscape of grassy knolls as far as the eye can see. Ah, it’s as if we’re cut off from the rest of the world, on our own private island.
I breathe in the scent of the summer air. “Van, this is incredible and very peaceful.”
“I actually write a lot of new music out here.”
“I’d love to be the first to hear your new stuff, but I know you’re constantly playing for people so it’s ok if you don’t want to.”
He turns to me and raises his eyebrows. “You’re not people, and I’ll serenade you any time you ask.” He walks into the house and returns with an acoustic guitar.
My own private concert! We sit outside as Van plays to his audience of one. These new songs are destined to become hits. I sway to the melodic tones of his voice. What a range. He can sing anything from hardcore rock to the sweetest lullaby. He’s truly a talented man, in every sense of the word.
∞
The sun blares into the wall of glass, burning through my lids. Morning arrives quicker than usual. I open my eyes and slowly focus on Van sleeping in a sea of purple satin. Best view in the world. He must sense my stare. He slowly blinks and smiles.
“Good morning. How’d you sleep?”
I stretch my arms over my head. “Like a log. This is the most comfortable bed I’ve ever been in. I don’t want to get out of it.”
“That can be arranged.” Van raises his eyebrows and smirks, as he pulls my body close to his, kissing my cheek. “Want breakfast in bed?”
“I would actually love some coffee out on the swing.”
“Your wish is my command.” Van waves his arm as we get out of bed and head downstairs.
Golden beams light up the meadows and trees. My eyes travel across the endless lush greenery as I sip my coffee and glide my feet against the wooden porch, slowly propelling the swing. I love it here, definitely a place I can see myself settling down.
Does time move faster here in Kansas? It’s already time to get ready for the Crane’s barbecue. My brown curls hang down over my shoulders in a half ponytail. Jeeze, I hope this isn’t a formal event. I gaze in the mirror at my purple sundress. Since Van looks perfect as usual in his blue T-shirt and jeans, I better step it up a bit. Some fancy jewelry and beaded flip flops should do the trick.
Much better! I fidget and twirl my fingers around my hair. I’m meeting Van’s only “family”. God bless him when it’s time to meet my parents.
I lower myself into the sleek leather of Van’s black Dodge Charger and run my fingers over all the lights and buttons. Is this the Bat Mobile? It is a muscle car to the extreme.
A short dirt road leads us to a gorgeous brick ranch home. The large tent in the backyard covering several tables, chairs, and two large grills indicates a decent size crowd is expected. My stomach clenches and flip-flops. Please let me be able to eat! I take a few deep breaths and calm my nerves.
My eyes travel over the vast amount of unfamiliar faces. “Van, I thought you said this was a small barbecue. I think Leslie invited half the town.”
“Yeah, I should’ve warned you. The Cranes tend to overdo things.” Van parks the car and opens my door for me like a true gentleman. I flash a goofy grin.
Dinner music echoes throughout the yard. My mouth waters as the aroma of smoked hickory engulfs me. Mmm. If the food tastes half as good as it smells, I’ll be in heaven.
We walk into the party, holding hands and giggling, totally engrossed in each other. A dark haired man with glasses comes up to us and gives Van a big hug.
“It’s great to see you back! We missed you.” He pats Van on the back.
“I missed you guys too. Mitch Crane, meet my girlfriend, Lexie Waters.”
He holds out his hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard wonderful things from Marcus and Jenna. Welcome to our home.”
I smile and shake it. “Thanks for having me. Everything smells delicious.”
“Enjoy yourselves. I’ve got to help the missus get everything ready.”
I spot two empty seats at Jenna and Marcus’s table. Thank God. I really didn’t want to force small talk with total strangers.
Marcus stands up and pulls out a chair. “Hey Lexie, ready for some Kansas cuisine?”
I lick my lips. “Oh yeah, it smells heavenly.”
Van leans in and whispers into my ear. “If you keep doing that I’ll have to show you the backseat of the Charger.”
I roll my eyes and shake my head.
“I guess the lovebirds are back in paradise.” Jenna gives a quick thumbs up.
“Thanks in part to you, everything’s perfect.” I give her a quick hug.
Is there special livestock in Kansas? These steaks are the best I’ve ever tasted, perfectly cooked and seasoned, so tender they melt in your mouth. Everything’s top notch. Leslie Crane is truly a culinary genius. Thank God I left room for dessert! My eyes practically bulge out of my he
ad, never leaving the buffet as they focus on a tray of decadent brownies and beautifully decorated cupcakes. I lick the fudge icing off first, and then finish the spongy cake. Yum.
Van stares directly at my face, his mouth opened and his eyes locked onto me like a lion stalking his prey. I lick the rest of the icing off my fingers, wrapping my lips around each one and sucking hard.
He exhales deeply. “We’ll have to put those skills to good use when we get home.”
I lick the remaining icing from my bottom lip and slowly catch it in my mouth. “That can be arranged.”
A bead of sweat forms on his forehead. “Let’s get a drink before I give you a tour of my old bedroom. It’s far from soundproof.”
Wine is being served near a small area opened up for dancing. I take two glasses and hand one to Van. I sway to the slow ballads as guests take to the dance floor.
“Wanna dance?” Van holds out his hand.
I set my glass down and, take it. “More than anything.”
He leads me to the dance floor, twining his fingers with mine. We sway back and forth to the slow rhythm. Nothing in the world compares to Van’s strong arms around me. Our lips meet as we dance, showing the world around us that we belong to each other.
As we exit the dance floor I glance around at the other guests. Why are those girls staring at us, smirking and laughing, as they whisper to each other? They watch me as I walk around the party.
I nod my head toward them. “Who are those girls?”
Van spots the brood of cackling women. “Just some girls we went to high school with, I think Jenna’s still friends with them. They aren’t worth your time.”
“You do see them laughing at us, right?” I place my hands on my hips and glare at the table, inadvertently tapping my foot.
“Ignore them; they’re probably still pissed I wouldn’t take any of them to prom.” Van pulls me close, kissing my lips and giving the girls something to stare at.
“I guess Jenna turns into one of them when they’re together. Huh, I thought we were friends.” I’m not able to peel my eyes away. Is she looking over and laughing as well?