THE LOVING TOUCH

by Stoni Alexander

  She stiffened. Of course he’s gotta bolt. He has no interest in me. “I don’t want to keep you. Did you make arrangements to complete your donation?”

  “Already paid it,” he replied. “I donate annually to Walk a Mile, so Melissa found me in the database.”

  “That’s great. Well, thank you again.”

  Jagger reached across the table and wrapped a strong hand around her arm. His possessive hold sent a rush of heat over her face. She wished she didn’t blush so easily.

  “I’m hosting a business event in my suite. I’m running late, but wanted to introduce myself. Join us. You’re welcome to bring Melissa. I need a way to contact you, but if I don’t leave now, my guests are going to walk and take their business with them.”

  Taylor hesitated. She wasn’t comfortable heading upstairs, no matter how handsome he was, or how much money he’d donated.

  Melissa hurried over. “Thank you again, Jagger,” she said, batting her eyelashes. Melissa, who never looked twice at another man, grinned. “And thank you for the invitation. As soon as I’m finished here, my husband, Don, and I will join you in your suite. That was so nice of you to include us.”

  “Glad you can make it.” Jagger smiled at Taylor and a zing of attraction skittered through her. “Bring Raven with you.”

  “Have you two exchanged contact info?” Melissa asked.

  “No, which is why you need to promise me that she’ll be there. Presidential suite, top floor.”

  Nodding like a love-struck fool, Melissa said, “You have my word.”

  As soon as the men left, Melissa placed her hand over her heart. “Gorgeous doesn’t even begin to describe those two.”

  Taylor glared at her. “You did not just swoon. What is wrong with you?”

  She grinned at Taylor. “Nothing, now.”

  “I’ve never seen you act like this.”

  “That man paid twenty thousand dollars for a date with you. What’s wrong with you?”

  “He could be a serial killer for all we know.”

  Melissa waved her off. “Google him. Meet him for dinner. Bring a friend. Tell your mother. You live with twenty people in a damned commune. Tell them.”

  Laughing, Taylor said, “I don’t live in a commune.”

  “Let’s finish up here, grab Don, and get upstairs. I’m starving. My money says Mr. Loving has some scrumptious treats awaiting us. And I’m not even talking about the food!”

  Twenty minutes later, Taylor rode the elevator with Melissa and her husband. “So, the man who won you thinks your name is Raven,” said Don. “And since you’re not telling him the truth, I can’t call you Taylor.”

  “Right,” she replied. “And if he or his friend asks about me, don’t tell them anything. Deflect all questions. Promise?”

  With a sheepish grin, Don adjusted his bifocals. “He paid twenty thousand dollars. Trust me, he’s interested in you.”

  “It’s a joke or a dare.” Taylor glared at them. “I’m counting on you two.”

  “No worries,” Melissa said.

  The elevator opened and they piled out. “Don and I are staying long enough to have a quick bite. We splurged on a night here.” She threaded her fingers through her husband’s hand as they headed toward the suite.

  The door was open, so they moseyed inside. Taylor hadn’t taken three steps when Maverick bustled over.

  “Hey! You made it. Maverick Hott.” He shook Don’s hand. “Pretty sweet digs. Let me show you the spread.” He escorted them through the art deco living room and into the equally stylish dining area. “There’s beer, wine, soda, sparkling water. What can I get everyone?”

  Taylor wanted to suck down a ginger ale in the hopes of calming her stomach, but that would be a dead giveaway she was a wreck. “Sparkling water. No, I’ll have a glass of red wine, please.”

  Tonight, Raven was in charge and she drank alcohol. Maverick poured from a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon that Taylor suspected cost a few hundred dollars. Who is this Jagger Loving?

  She glanced around the spacious suite filled with people and her heart skipped a beat when she spied him. Though he stood in a small group, he turned in her direction, as if he knew exactly where she was. The second they connected, her pulse pounded a frenetic rhythm. He broke eye contact long enough to place his hand on the arm of the man to his right, say something that left everyone chuckling, and head in her direction.

  A raw hunger lurked in his eyes. With his every step, her insides burned with desire. Even though she squirmed from his intense energy, she couldn’t turn away. I’m Raven. Cool, sophisticated Raven. Knowing she could play the part of someone else calmed her down. She turned and faced him.

  “I’m glad you could make it.” Jagger placed his hand on her arm. That simple touch excited her in a myriad of ways. “You look beautiful.”

  He sounded so sincere; she wanted to believe him. “Thank you and thanks for inviting us.” She gestured to her friends, but Melissa and Don were chatting with Maverick while filling their plates at the buffet table. She and Jagger stood alone. A tremble skirted through her.

  Jagger tossed a nod toward the buffet. “I think your friends are hungry.” Instead of following his gaze, she studied his profile. From every angle, he was gorgeous. High cheekbones and a strong jawline accentuated his chiseled face. As soon as she honed in on his sexy mouth, she pursed hers, but the whisper-soft moan still managed to escape.

  Not wanting to get caught gawking, she peered into her glass. This man was so out of her league. Beyond his striking looks, he carried himself with a confidence she only dreamed about.

  “You okay?” He ran a comforting hand from her shoulder blades to the small of her back, and kept it there.

  Meeting his fiery gaze, she nodded. But she was crumbling from his intensity.

  “I see you have something to drink. How about some food?” The heat from his fingers seeped through the lace gown. She could have stood like that forever.

  “That’s a good idea,” she said, finding her voice. “It’s been a long day.”

  With a plate in hand, Jagger escorted her through the buffet, ensuring she received a sampling of several delicious-looking foods. Then, he seated her at the dining room table, retrieved her utensils, a bottle of sparkling water and two glasses, and joined her. Despite feeling self-conscious, she loved how he waited on her.

  “Are you eating?” she asked as he eased onto the chair, catty-corner from hers.

  “Maverick and I had a huge meal at Sargent’s.” He poured their waters and lifted his glass. “Cheers. Congratulations on a successful event. Melissa said you really came through for her.”

  “Thank you,” she murmured, unable to look away. She could hardly breathe, but her insides were humming. Taylor became tongue tied around handsome, sophisticated men like Jagger, but she had to say something. “Did you arrive late to the fundraiser?” That was brilliant.

  “We got there when you took the stage.”

  She wanted to ask, why me? Instead, she bit off the end of a lobster toast with avocado, and the tiny cracker crumbled onto the plate. C’mon get it together. She nibbled a carrot tart with ricotta and almond filling. This gorgeous, elegant man deserved his money’s worth, starting right now. Swallowing down a mountain of insecurities, she pinned on a smile.

  “What do you do?” she asked.

  “I’m in the hospitality industry. How about you? Do you work full-time for Walk a Mile?”

  “No, I’m…” What does Raven do? Her mind raced with possibilities. “I’m a vet…primarily dogs,” she blurted. “Cats, fish, too.” Ohgod, I’m losing it. She forced a laugh. “No, no fish.”

  He chuckled, but he hadn’t stopped staring at her. Assuming she had food on her face, she wiped the corners of her mouth with the cloth napkin.

  “Well, Doctor, I’m impressed you’d volunteer with what must be a full schedule.”

  Tell him the truth, apologize, give him your phone number, and leave. He’ll never call.r />
  “We’re heading out,” someone said.

  Taylor continued staring into Jagger’s eyes. “I…so…um, I’m not really a…the reason I intro—”

  “Raven. We’re leaving.”

  Taylor whipped her head toward Melissa. “Congratulations on a successful evening,” she said, and popped out of her seat.

  “I’ll circulate a press release in the AM.” Melissa smiled at Jagger. “Would you mind if I highlight your generous contribution?”

  He rose. “If publicizing my donation would benefit the organization, go ahead.”

  Don shook Jagger’s hand. “Thank you for including us.” He nodded at Taylor. “Great job tonight, Raven.”

  As Taylor hugged Don goodbye, her thoughts were on the major lie she’d just told. She didn’t know the first thing about being a veterinarian and wished she’d blurted out something closer to her actual career. Or simply told him the truth.

  Melissa hugged her. “I Googled him for you,” she whispered. “He’s yummy. Have fun.” She shot Jagger one more smile before Don ushered her toward the door.

  Taylor felt lightheaded and grabbed the table’s edge for support. She was in over her head.

  “Okay, time to eat.” Jagger held the chair for her and she eased back down.

  To her surprise, he stabbed the delicate greens and held out the fork. She took the utensil from him and ate. As she peered into his eyes, Melissa’s voice echoed in her head like a mantra. Life is all about making bold choices. Make this moment bold. She made a decision. For one night, she’d be someone she wasn’t—confident, brave, brash. Raven had gotten her through the event. Raven could take her the rest of the way, too.

  “How are you familiar with our charity?” she asked.

  “I’ve donated to Walk a Mile for years.” Jagger broke eye contact for a few seconds. “When I was a child, my family experienced homelessness, so I know, firsthand, it’s a struggle to turn things around.” Sadness banked in his eyes before he shrugged a shoulder. “Not something I usually discuss.”

  Her heart stopped. She’d not expected that answer from a man who oozed wealth and charm. More than that, she’d not anticipated that level of disclosure. Guilt floated over her like an angry storm cloud. He didn’t even know her real name and he thought she was a vet. “I’m sorry,” she murmured.

  “It was a long time ago.” That smooth-as-silk voice rumbled through her. “Now I’m in a position to help others. Plus, I won the auction’s most beautiful woman, so I’d say I’m the envy of the fundraiser.” His sexy smile shot her pulse into the stratosphere.

  No man had ever said anything that compelling, that powerful, about her.

  Her breath caught in her throat. “Thank you,” she murmured. “I’m not worthy.” She wished she hadn’t said that.

  “Why would you say that?” He picked up the lone marinated olive and offered her the tiny black fruit. “I’m a firm believer in the clean plate club.” This time, she opened her mouth. When he slipped it inside, his thumb caressed her bottom lip. Her skin tingled, and his low, husky moan sent a jolt straight to her core.

  “What about you?” he asked. “Is homelessness personal for you, too?”

  Taylor hesitated. What is Raven’s story? Should she offer a nugget of truth? Be honest.

  “My Auntie Patty lived with us off and on throughout my childhood. She was awesome and I adored her. She suffered from mental illness, but I never knew. When I was in college, she died homeless. I always thought that if I’d known, I could have helped her somehow.” She’d never shared that with anyone and the loss filled her with a sudden jolt of grief. At least she’d told Jagger something truthful about herself.

  “I’m sorry,” he said.

  “Jagger, pardon the interruption.” A stocky man extended his hand. “This was great.”

  “Excuse me,” Jagger said to Taylor before pushing out of his chair and shaking the man’s hand. “My pleasure. Glad you could make it.”

  The man smiled. “Must feel great to be back.”

  Jagger nodded. “Sensational, actually.”

  Back from where?

  Several more guests ambled over to express their thanks before heading out. It was after eleven. She hadn’t had time to process the whirlwind evening, much less accept that she was sitting with a man who’d paid twenty thousand dollars for her.

  As Jagger said goodbye to the last client, Taylor rose. It might have been the passion in his eyes, or the way that lock of hair shadowed his brow, or how he offered her a charming smile. But she didn’t want to leave.

  “You’re not heading out, too, are you?” Before she had a chance to respond, he stepped close. “Stay.”

  That word tumbled through her. No man had ever spoken to her in such a commanding tone. Unable to tear herself away, she stared into his bright eyes.

  “Brother, we’re outta here.” Maverick hijacked their moment.

  Taylor acknowledged the woman superglued to his arm. As the two friends said their goodbyes, her mind wandered.

  Though she’d never had a one-night stand, she wouldn’t let this opportunity pass her by. Jagger was different from the men she’d dated. He oozed worldly sophistication and an abundance of confidence. He was fascinating and attentive, and flat-out gorgeous. Plus, she got the impression he wasn’t even from around here, so she didn’t have to worry about seeing him again. What would Raven do?

  Raven would take full advantage of this situation. Raven, the veterinarian, didn’t even have a last name and she’d keep it that way. A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. One evening of bold choices and no regrets.

  But someone should know, so she pulled her phone from her clutch and texted Melissa. “I’m staying in Jagger’s suite. I’ll text you in the morning so you know I’m alive.”

  Tiny dots appeared. “Have fun! That’s an order!”

  No regrets. She slipped her phone back into her purse.

  The two men clasped hands. “Great to see you,” Jagger said to Maverick before addressing the woman still clutching his friend’s arm. “Let me know when you’re headed west and I’ll roll out the red carpet.”

  The woman smiled. “Everything about your resorts are red carpet, but I appreciate the invitation.”

  Resorts? Taylor glanced at him.

  “Congrats on tonight, Raven.” Maverick winked at Jagger before heading out, the fawning blonde in tow.

  Alone with Jagger. The air turned electric. When she redirected her attention, he pierced her with a heated gaze. Energy whizzed through her.

  All of him taking in all of her solidified her decision. She couldn’t wait to get him naked and run her hands over every sexy inch of him. Knowing her identity was safe behind a fictitious character—one with no past, no present, and no future—bolstered her confidence. Raven had one night and Taylor was going to take full advantage of it…and of him. Her insides vibrated with an ache that had her pressing her thighs together.

  Knock. Knock.

  “Unbelievable,” he said. Rather than leaving Taylor in the dining room, Jagger held her hand. “Something tells me you’re a flight risk.” She laughed. “I’d handcuff you to me if I had a pair.”

  Ohmygod. I would love that.

  He walked with purpose toward the door, Taylor floating alongside. Did her feet even touch the floor? Her hand fit snugly in his. Did he realize that he was stroking her skin with his thumb? Was that also part of the Jagger Loving charm? Did all the ladies receive this smooth treatment? If he was anything like his friend, he was a major player. But Raven didn’t care about any of that. Raven only cared about Raven and everything she’d never experienced. One night of wild passion with a sexy stranger.

  Jagger opened the door.

  Room service. The attendants followed them into the suite.

  “Please leave any food that doesn’t need refrigeration. Take the alcohol. We’ll keep the sparkling water.”

  Was he one of those people who spoke in the plural or had he purpo
sefully included the “we” for her benefit? She’d become hypersensitive to his every move, his every word. And every time he looked in her direction, which he was doing again, she couldn’t help but stare back. Who wouldn’t? He was flawless, gorgeous, and sublimely sexy. And about to get fucked. Big time.

  Only one question remained. Could Taylor play by Raven’s carefree rules?

  4

  The Decision

  Jagger’s attraction to Raven was off the charts. When she’d strolled into his suite, he knew he had to have her. She was strikingly gorgeous. Her ocean blue eyes hypnotized him. Her beautiful smile sent him rocketing to the moon. One minute she oozed confidence, the next, she seemed completely unsure, to the point of being downright timid.

  And that’s when he wanted to comfort her. Her sweet nature drew him in and kept him rooted by her side.

  Before she’d arrived, he’d made a point to speak with every guest. Sure, he rushed things a bit, but he’d kicked up the charm, offered a warm smile, and a firm handshake. Most clients had been there to check a box or ensure themselves an invitation to Loving Malibu. And he hadn’t disappointed. Everyone had received an engraved invitation for a complimentary two-night stay for two. Jagger may have arrived late to his own party, but his business associates had left happy.

  The second he’d seen Raven, he couldn’t get to her fast enough. An hour later, they were almost alone. Ten minutes until the hotel staff cleared out.

  With his fingers still laced with hers, Jagger returned to the living room. Though he’d continued stroking her skin with his thumb, she’d turned rigid in his grasp. He had to play this right. She hadn’t even given him her phone number. But he was a realist. He had just dropped anchor in California and she lived in the DC area. Even with all the technology at their disposal, nothing replaced human contact. He didn’t want a long-distance relationship. In the long run, it wouldn’t work, especially from the get-go. But he had tonight and he was damn well going to make the most of it.

  Their chemistry was undeniable. He hated looking anywhere but at her. She smelled feminine and flowery. She was sexy as hell, not just physically, but emotionally, too. Part timid, part bold was his hot button. He gestured for her to sit on the sofa.