by Rita Sawyer
“Please.” She was going to do it anyway, but his plea had her tearing into the pretty little package.
Her gasp filled the air as she stared down at the airline ticket. She slid it out and a reservation slip fell onto her lap. Scooping it up, she read the name of a really expensive, exclusive resort. He was giving her six days and five nights at a place she could have only dreamed about going to someday. What the hell was going on? Maybe the elevator crashed and she was in heaven? No, that couldn’t be it. Because in her version of heaven they’d be lying in a big huge bed, rolling on satin sheets. Her cheeks heated, just like the rest of her body and she had a hard time meeting his eyes. When she did, she was a little annoyed to see him wearing a huge smile.
“I want you to have some time to really think things over uninterrupted, or damn near, on me. If that doesn’t sit well with you, we can call it a bonus.” Did he really think a fancy gift was going to make her change her mind?
Maybe he had concocted a stupid plan to charm her into staying, not that she would let it happen. Though it would serve him right if she took his bribe and quit anyways. She had endured enough stress from the job. Why not enjoy the huge perk he was offering?
“If it helps you to accept my offer, I want you to know the ticket and reservation are non-transferable, non-refundable, and already fully paid for.”
She shook her head, hating that he knew she would never waste money. So it looked like she was going on vacation. She was full of questions she didn’t know how to ask. Her straightforward manner was an asset in the business world when dealing with his clients, but when it came to anything remotely personal she always wondered if it was a disadvantage.
“You’ll need a few days to pack so I’ve reworked my schedule so your time off can start right now if you want, or at the end of today.” It suddenly dawned on her what a good thing this could be.
Time off to relax and think without him around would be a blessing. She might even find a way to close off her feelings for him, though she doubted it. And if she wasn’t needed around here, then all they’d do was get on each other’s nerves, or take this foolish kissing further and embarrass one of them. Probably her, when he breaks down and admits his attraction is just a ploy to get her to stay.
“I’ll go now.” She started to get to her feet scooping up her stuff, trash and all, as she moved.
She made it to her knees and realized he had moved too, which brought them face to face. She could have dealt with that, it was being chest to chest and their hips mere inches apart that got to her. His big warm hands settled on her shoulders, holding her in place as he stared into her eyes. How she wished she trusted herself or him enough to believe in what she thought she saw there. Patsy couldn’t bring herself to pull out of his grasp even though she knew it was wrong for them to be in this position. She just waited for him to say something.
Instead of talking, he lowered his head and took her lips in a sweet, yet invasive, kiss. As his mouth teased her into submission, he pulled her up against him. She gasped at the contact, which just made it easier for him to devour her. A moan vibrated his chest under her hands, surprising and exciting her. Their tongues dueled for control, and her body heated. She wondered if they’d be the same way in bed. Each of them jostling for a better position, to be in control. She’d give anything to find out, but deep down she was kind of afraid to know. Why find out how combustible they could be only to find out it was a sick ploy just to keep her working for him? Something told her he’d never do that, but she was so confused by his sudden turn about that she wasn’t sure of anything right now.
“Just a second.” Not looking away, Dexter managed to grab the other box and pressed it into her hand and said, “Do something for me.”
Patsy clutched the box in her hand and nodded, ready to agree to anything. “Don’t open this until you get there.”
8 Ways Onto The Naughty List
Chapter Ten
Patsy was a little tired from the plane ride, and shaken from the hotel shuttle driver’s shortcut over what had to be the bumpiest road she’d ever been on. Still, she had enough wits about her to take a look around the place and feel a little overwhelmed by it all. The main hotel was surrounded by fancy little bungalows, each spaced far enough apart to give the occupants complete privacy. She knew from the hotel’s website there were two pools on either side of the hotel for guests who were too timid to head down to the beach and take a dip in the crystal blue waters.
She walked up to the check-in counter and waited for the woman to end her phone call. Patsy looked around the lobby trying not to listen as the woman confirmed someone else’s reservation. It was kind of silly, but she’d almost been expecting to see a palm tree with Christmas lights. Instead, the place was in full Christmas mode. There was a huge, gaily decorated tree in the center of the room and mistletoe hung above the doorways. The woman hung up and turned her attention to her.
“Welcome to Pinnacle Resort. Do you have a reservation, or will you need a room?” the woman asked with a smile she wished she felt like returning.
“I have a reservation under Patsy Shadwell.” The woman typed her name into the computer and her smile grew.
“Here it is.” She turned and gathered a packet from the counter behind her and motioned to a young man who rushed over. “Patrick will show you to your room. This will explain all of our amenities, but if you need anything else, just call the desk and we’ll take care of it for you.”
“Thank you.” Patsy took the thick folder and followed the uniformed—well, if you called khaki shorts and a polo shirt a uniform—bellboy to her room.
She stopped at the elevator, but the guy kept walking so she hustled to catch up to him. At the end of the long hallway, he opened the door and motioned for her to go outside. He followed her then led her to a couple of golf carts parked beside the building. She watched him put her bag on the back of one of the carts and strap it down. He took his seat and motioned for her to join him so she did.
They took off down the gravel path at a fast clip, but anybody could have jogged along beside them. They drove past the pools and further out beyond little chalets. He turned onto a smaller path that had a steep incline and she began wondering where he was taking her. As they rounded a bend in the trail, she spotted a secluded bungalow bigger than all the others.
He pulled to stop in front of it and they both stepped out of the cart and walked the few feet to the deck. Patrick headed for the door, but Patsy walked over to the railing and looked out at the ocean and beach below. Her breath rushed out as she took in the view. She’d heard people say something was picture perfect, but had never felt that way until now. Thankfully, she’d remembered to pack her camera, because she’d probably never get to come to a place like this again, and she wanted to remember every minute.
“I know it’s a little far from the main building, but you have your own cart to get around. And we have the very best security money can buy.” The bellboy seemed to have sensed her hesitation and thought she was afraid.
“It’s fine really. I’m here for some solitude.” She wanted to laugh at the strange look he gave her. “Don’t hear that often, huh?”
“No, ma’am. Then again, we mostly have couples or groups that stay with us.” He opened the door and held it waiting for her to go in first.
Stepping inside was like a fairy tale. A huge bedroom on one side, a sitting area on the other. There was a breeze blowing the white gauzy drapes at all the windows and three ceiling fans spinning overhead. It was like those love scenes in the movies. Huge bed, flowers everywhere, and on the middle of the bed was a tray of huge strawberries covered in white and dark chocolate. All that was missing was the guy to sweep her off her feet. And in a place like this that was really a shame, she thought, wishing things were different. Patrick walked over and put her bag on the chair by the closet.
“Are you sure we’re in the right room?” Okay, so it was a dumb question, but she had to ask because this place was designed
with lovers in mind.
He chuckled and headed for the door. “Yes, ma’am. Dinner will be delivered at six o’clock, but the kitchen is open all the time, all meals are included here at the Pinnacle so please enjoy. The keys to your cart are hanging by the door. I know this can be overwhelming, but all the details are in there.” He pointed to the folder she was squishing against her chest. “If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to call.”
The door closed, and she was left alone in the most romantic place she’d ever been, and probably would ever be. She knew she should be excited, but in truth, she was feeling a little depressed. A quick look at her watch told her she had three hours until dinner. She was not going to sit here and mope. Dwelling on what she wished was possible wouldn’t help a bit. Tossing her purse onto the edge of the bed, she grabbed her bag and started yanking out her clothes. She’d go take a long walk on the beach and maybe have dinner on the deck. What time does the sun set down here? I’m not missing that. First she needed to take a shower and slip into something cooler, because even though her room felt almost cold, it was damn hot outside.
~* * *~
Dexter paced the office, waiting for word that everything was ready. It had taken every ounce of his control not to go to her before now. When he’d gotten the message she had arrived, he didn’t feel the relief he’d expected. Instead, he’d begun to have a dozen ‘what if?’ thoughts. He wasn’t used to not knowing the outcome of his plans, even the ones with minimal risk. His normal confidence was wavering as he was faced with the fact that none of this was up to him. He’d left way too much room for the niggling of doubt to creep in.
“You’re wearing a hole in my carpet.” Evan laughed as he lounged on the couch.
Dexter shot him a look, daring him to say something else. It wasn’t like there was anywhere else he could be. She was in his private bungalow, but could come and go as she pleased. So if he left the office, she might see him. After all the trouble he’d gone through, that wasn’t going to happen.
“Sorry, our carpet. When do plan on telling her you’re part owner of this place and seven others?” Evan had a way of cutting through the bullshit, which he both respected and hated.
He shrugged his shoulders. He knew Patsy wasn’t the type who would let his being filthy rich affect her decision. He’d known it all along, which was one of the reasons she scared him.
“Tell her soon before somebody else accidently lets it slip.” Evan’s somber voice reminded him his friend hadn’t been so lucky.
He nodded, knowing Evan was right. She deserved to know. “I’ll tell her over dinner.”
“Good.” A knock sounded on the door and Evan shouted, “Come in.”
The door opened and a young kid stuck his head in. “Mr. Chapman, we’re ready whenever you are.”
“Let’s go.” He headed for the door, ignoring the way his stomach tightened and his hands shook.
“Don’t be so nervous, it’s just the rest of your life.” Evan laughed, but as he closed the door Dexter heard him shout, “GOOD LUCK!”
He followed the kid out to the carts stand where another kid was waiting for them. Dexter slid behind the wheel. None of them spoke, but he figured the kids were afraid because he was one of the owners. Normally he would have struck up a conversation, but he was busy dwelling on his own fears to worry about putting them at ease.
He pulled to a stop in front of the bungalow and stood aside awkwardly as the guys began unloading the cart. Dexter let out a harsh breath, followed them up the stairs and almost walked into one of them when they stopped short. He looked around them to where Patsy was laying flat on her stomach on one of his lounge chairs.
Her hands were under her cheek, elbows out to the sides. She had headphones on and was oblivious to the three of them standing there gawking at her. Her hair was pulled into a ponytail high on her head, which brushed the ties of her bathing suit around her neck. He followed her naked back, which was looking a bit red, down to the shiny black material that covered the curves of her hips and ass. Every inch of his body was rock hard before he even got to the long toned legs he dreamed about.
Realizing the two younger guys where getting quite an eyeful he cleared his throat. Young, but not foolish, they quickly made themselves scarce. Dexter would have stood there enjoying the view until they were gone, but he was worried she was getting burned. He walked over, sat next to her hip, and lightly ran his fingers down her back. She didn’t so much as flinch, but heat radiated off her.
He leaned down and lifted the headphones off her head. Lowering his mouth close to her ear, he whispered her name. Nothing happened so he took advantage and pressed a kiss to her cheek. She smiled and moaned as her body wiggled beside him. He hoped that would still be her reaction once she woke up.
He gave her a little shake and keeping his voice soft he said, “Patsy, wake up. You’re getting sunburned.”
Her eyes fluttered open, they were filled with sleep and blatant desire. This close it was undeniable and too hard to resist. He pressed his lips to hers in what was meant to be a gentle kiss. That all changed when she rolled over, wrapped her arms around his neck, and ran her tongue along his lower lip. He opened his mouth, giving her the entry she demanded. Diving headlong into the kiss, he pulled her against him. Her body melded to his. She felt so good in his arms he almost forgot about her back. He pulled away, and they sat there panting. She looked a little bewildered, but not angry.
“Enough of that for now. Let’s get you inside and take care of that burn before it gets any worse.” He stood, helping her to her feet.
“What are you doing here?” she asked as they walked into the bungalow.
“We can talk about that after dinner.” He inclined his head in the direction where the guys were setting the table.
“Oh. I should put something on.” She tried to slip her hand from his, but he wasn’t ready to let go.
“Let me rub some aloe after sun cream on your back or it’ll be sore later.”
She nodded, but he could tell she wanted to argue.
They went into the bathroom. Patsy hovered in the doorway while Dexter rummaged through the cabinet beside the shower. He was having trouble focusing on the job at hand with his mind drifting to the shower he’d love to share with her. Finally finding the lotion, he turned to her and held it up with a smile.
Her eyes locked on the bottle, the earlier passion dimmed to just a glimmer. “I can do it.”
“Sweetheart, even the best contortionist wouldn’t be able to pull that off. Turn around, I’ll put it on then leave so you can change.” For a second she looked like she was going to argue then she turned around.
Dexter looked at the redness, pleased to see it didn’t look so bad now that she’d moved out of the sun. Still, he loaded his hands and started at her shoulders, rubbing the lotion gently into her skin. Halfway down, he paused to reload his hands. Patsy looked over her shoulder at him. The desire was raging again in her expressive green eyes. He was happy to see that she enjoyed having his hands on her. Patsy’s eyes closed, her head fell forward as a little moan escaped. He had to drop to his knees to get the back of her legs. Sporting a major hard-on, it wasn’t easy, but her comfort was the important thing, not his. He got up, went to the sink and used the excuse of washing his hands to try and get himself under control.
Patsy wasn’t a fool, she knew what he was doing. “Are you okay?”
“Fine. I’ll just go check on dinner.” She stepped aside, letting him leave, which was a good thing, because at the slightest encouragement, he would’ve taken her right then.
Dexter dismissed the waiters with a thank you and poured them each a glass of champagne. Patsy came out of the bathroom wearing a fluffy white robe and he instantly wondered if she was wearing anything under it. She looked at the table elegantly set with two long tapered candles glowing at the center. She smiled, walked over and sat in the chair he held for her.
He took his seat and tried to think of some
thing clever to say, but she beat him to it. “So now that we’re alone, why don’t you tell me why you’re here?”
“Here in this room, or here at The Pinnacle?” She smiled, propping her elbows on the table and resting her chin on her hands.
“The answer is the same really. I’m here because you are.” He wanted to break through this bullshit, but he wanted it to be special for her so he’d deal with it.
She raised her eyebrows, something she did when she didn’t quite believe someone. “I thought you sent me here to be alone and think.”
“It was an excuse. I had ulterior motives from the start. I wanted you where neither of us could run away, so we’d have to talk.” He ignored the champagne and reached for the glass of water beside his silver dome covered plate.
“Okay, so now you’ve got me alone in this beautiful place. What would you like to talk about?” Her nervousness earlier in the bathroom had been replaced by a confidence he wished he had right now.
“Wouldn’t you like to eat first?” Not that he could eat a bite, but Evan swore the chef was magical so he wanted her to enjoy it.
“No. What I’d like to do is find out why you’d send me to a place designed for seduction? Alone?” She was watching him intently, and he was determined not to blow it this time.
“You’re not alone. I’m here.” He hoped it would be enough that she wouldn’t make him beg.
“So you’re here to seduce me into keeping my job?” She got to her feet and walked over to the window looking out over the ocean.
He got to his feet to, but made no move to follow her. “Damn it. Patsy, my being here has nothing to do with your job. I told you, you’re free to leave if you want to. I’d miss seeing you every day, but all I want is for you to be happy.”
“But you do want to seduce me?” Either she really wasn’t getting it, or she was trying to get even with him for the past two weeks.
“Yes! Okay, it was part of my plan, but I’m obviously mucking it up.” He ran his hand through his hair trying to decide how to go on from here.