Passion at the Castle

by Diane Thorne

  Table of Contents

  Legal Page

  Title Page

  Book Description

  Trademarks Acknowledgement

  Chapter One

  Chapter Two

  Chapter Three

  Chapter Four

  Chapter Five

  Chapter Six

  New Excerpt

  About the Author

  Publisher Page

  A Totally Bound Publication

  Passion at the Castle

  ISBN # 978-1-78430-022-7

  ©Copyright Diane Thorne 2014

  Cover Art by Posh Gosh ©Copyright April 2014

  Edited by Sue Meadows

  Totally Bound Publishing

  This is a work of fiction. All characters, places and events are from the author’s imagination and should not be confused with fact. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, events or places is purely coincidental.

  All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material form, whether by printing, photocopying, scanning or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, Totally Bound Publishing.

  Applications should be addressed in the first instance, in writing, to Totally Bound Publishing. Unauthorised or restricted acts in relation to this publication may result in civil proceedings and/or criminal prosecution.

  The author and illustrator have asserted their respective rights under the Copyright Designs and Patents Acts 1988 (as amended) to be identified as the author of this book and illustrator of the artwork.

  Published in 2014 by Totally Bound Publishing, Newland House, The Point, Weaver Road, Lincoln, LN6 3QN

  Warning:

  This book contains sexually explicit content which is only suitable for mature readers. This story has a heat rating of Totally Taboo and a Sexometer of 1.

  Diary of a Free Woman

  PASSION AT THE CASTLE

  Diane Thorne

  Book six in the Diary of a Free Woman series

  Desires explored and revealed.

  Gwenevere is in Ireland for the last stop on her European vacation. The peace and solitude at the luxurious Dromoland Castle is nice, but she misses the company of a lover, especially the ones she has met along her journey. Her time alone comes to a quick end when a young man and woman ask Gwen to have brunch with them. She joins them and soon discovers they are far more interested in her than she could have imagined. They find her attractive and invite her to a threesome.

  The request stuns Gwen and she is hesitant to hook up with them. No married couple, let alone a woman, has never approached her before. She reflects on the opportunities she’s taken during her trip. All the brief sexual encounters had left her with incredibly satisfying experiences. Why should this new prospect be any different?

  Gwen takes her chances and the playful couple show her intense passion that leaves her hungering for more. She spends the remainder of her stay with them and learns that love from a woman is just as enjoyable as it is from a man.

  Trademarks Acknowledgement

  The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction:

  Viagra: Pfizer, Inc.

  Twilight Zone: CBS Television Distribution

  Chapter One

  Gwenevere leaned against the frame of the gothic window. She gazed at the calm lake and the acres of open land beyond the water. The peaceful landscape with vibrant green trees and grass instilled a sense of serenity within Gwen, which was exactly what she needed to reflect on her journey before she headed home to the States.

  The buzz of her phone on the nightstand called to her. She rushed past the round table at the side of the window and towards the small dresser near the four-poster bed. When she reached for her cell, she noticed her daughter’s name on the screen. Gwen smiled instantly.

  “Hello, sweetheart,” Gwen said, holding the phone to her ear.

  “Hi, Mom. Are you settled in Ireland yet?” Kristy, the youngest of her two daughters, asked.

  Gwen sat on the mattress. “Yes. I arrived late yesterday.”

  “Did you have a good flight?”

  “It was okay. A little bumpy this time. Rain was pouring down when the plane landed.”

  Kristy chuckled. “Well, you are in Ireland. I hear it rains a lot.”

  “It stopped last night and the sun is out today. The forecast calls for a couple dry days.”

  “That’s good. Are you going to explore the castle grounds?”

  “I plan on it.”

  “Be sure to take photos. Krystal and I want to see how big and beautiful Dromoland is.”

  “Don’t worry, I will. How are you and your sister doing?”

  “We’re fine. Nothing new to report here. You know, same ol’ routines—school and work.”

  “Yeah, I understand,” Gwen said with a sigh.

  Gwen would have to return to her monotonous lifestyle upon her return home and the mere thought made her feel glum. She hankered for a change and she knew why. She’d met wonderful men on her European vacation and shared incredible sexual adventures with them. As a result, she craved the touch of a man more than ever now. She enjoyed sex and wanted more. Hell, she might’ve even considered a long-term relationship with a male partner if she could find the right one. But that would be the difficult part. She was a forty-four-year-old woman who enjoyed her independence. What man would find someone like her worthy of companionship?

  “Are you looking forward to coming home?” Kristy asked.

  “Yes and no. I miss you and your sister, but I’ve had an incredible vacation.” ‘Unbelievable’ and ‘astounding’ better described her travels. Every man she’d met had been respectable, kind and overwhelmingly passionate. She missed each one dearly.

  “Maybe the three of us can go on a trip during the college break,” Kristy said. “We could take a cruise or visit Las Vegas.”

  “Vegas?”

  “Yeah, you know the saying, ‘What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’. You could hook up with a male escort while Krystal and I hang out at a casino.”

  Gwen laughed. “You want me to have sex with an escort?” She couldn’t stop laughing.

  “Well, Mom, I’m sure you could use some one-on-one time with a man, if you know what I mean.”

  Gwen enjoyed her daughter’s humour. She considered briefly sharing how she’d met a couple of men during her vacation and had one-on-one time with them. But if she did, they’d question her and she’d divulge details likely to leave an unfavourable image. Her daughters really didn’t need to know their mother had sex on a plane, at the Louvre, at the Eiffel Tower, on a yacht and beach with two young men, in the Opera House or with a man who worked in a fetish club. Without a doubt, she’d be better off keeping her lips sealed.

  “I appreciate your concern and I’ll think about it.” Gwen rose from the bed.

  “I think we’d have a lot of fun,” Kristy said.

  “I’m sure we would, dear. Tell your sister I said hello. I’m going to find something to eat.”

  “Love you, Mom. Call one of us before you board the plane for home.”

  “Will do. Take care.”

  “Bye.”

  Gwen strolled to the oblong mirror standing in the corner. Still grinning from her daughter’s suggestion, she surveyed her reflection. Her long honey brown hair flowed over her shoulders in waves, covering the thin straps of her pink dress. The spring-like garment had a low neckline and showed a bit of her girls, but not too much flesh. She smoothed her hands over her hips and twisted to check her backside. Although she felt the band of her panties, the line and colour of her bikini was invisible. Perfect.

  Ready to face the wo
rld, or rather the few guests staying at the castle, she grabbed her purse from the table. Then, she headed for the door.

  The carpeted hallway quieted her shoes as she strode towards the staircase that would take her to the front of the castle. Antique oil paintings clung to the orange-coloured walls while a lavish chandelier hung from the ceiling. Cushioned chairs placed along one side of the wide hallway allowed visitors to sit, relax and enjoy tea while eating a pastry. Another area had a table prepared with a chessboard. Tall windows granted natural light onto the walkway. The luxurious historical mansion was quite a sight to behold.

  She descended the stairs, entered a darker area of the castle, but with the same exquisite fixtures. The walls had a maroon tint and dark wood crowned the ceiling. As Gwen passed the check-in desk, the hostess gave her a nod. Gwen returned the greeting and smiled. She continued into the large lobby, she passed two empty suits of armour backed against a concrete wall. She entered another wide hallway with hardwood floors. Her shoes clacked against the surface. More portraits hung from the striped walls. She glanced at each picture until she reached the restaurant.

  “Hello,” Gwen said to the female greeter.

  The young lady stood behind what resembled a mini bar area, minus the glasses and liquor bottles. Her nametag read Cara.

  “Good morning, will you be joining us alone?” Cara asked.

  “Yes.”

  The hostess withdrew a menu and stepped around the counter. “Would you like to sit inside or outside?”

  Gwen turned to the windowed wall along the back. Outside, she found white-clothed tables and chairs. Four guests sat together closest to the windows. Three men dressed in polo shirts occupied a spot in the middle. A couple were at a table farther away. Nobody was sitting inside the restaurant.

  “The weather appears nice. I think I’ll have brunch outside,” Gwen said.

  “Good choice.” Cara smiled. “Please follow me.”

  Gwen walked behind her as she led the way between tables to the exit at the back of the restaurant. The minute she stepped outside the bright sun warmed her bare arms. She passed the group of four and proceeded between more empty tables until the menu-carrying employee stopped, then faced Gwen.

  “Is this okay?” She gestured towards the spot next to her.

  “It’s fine. Thank you.”

  Gwen took a seat and placed her purse on a chair next to her.

  “A server will be right with you. May I get you a drink?” The hostess handed the menu to Gwen.

  “Tea is fine. Just regular tea.”

  “I’ll have a cup brought out to you.”

  After Cara disappeared, Gwen surveyed her surroundings. The air was fresh and birds chirped loudly. A slight breeze brushed over Gwen but it wasn’t cool enough for her skin to react with goosebumps. She peered beyond the couple sitting several tables away and noticed the garden in the distance. A vine with flowers covered half of the entrance. The area was big and inviting. At some point during her stay she’d make sure to venture into the garden. First she planned to explore the innards of the castle with a tour guide.

  A waiter arrived with her teacup and a porcelain teapot. “Good morning.” He set the cup down then poured tea into it.

  “Thank you.”

  “Would you like a moment to check out the menu?” he asked, his Irish accent thicker than that of the hostess’s.

  “Yes, please.”

  “I’ll return in a few minutes.” He set the teapot on the table before he disappeared.

  Gwen plucked a cube of sugar from the small canister then dropped the sweetener into her tea. As she stirred the fluid, she perused the menu. Although she hadn’t eaten much of a dinner the previous night, her belly wasn’t complaining. The egg and ham croissants appealed to her, but she feared she wouldn’t be able to finish the entire meal and she disliked wasting food. Her best option was to settle for a muffin and bowl of fruit.

  She lifted her cup and brought it to her lips. As she sipped the hot tea, she closed her menu.

  “Pardon me, miss.”

  Gwen turned her head and found the waiter who’d delivered her tea standing at her side. She set her cup back on the saucer. “Yes?”

  “The couple sitting a few tables behind me would like to invite you to join them.” He smiled.

  “Oh?” Gwen shifted her attention to the man and woman. The female had long blonde hair that shone under the sun. She wore a white hat and blue polka dot blouse. Her partner had short light brown hair and wore a light blue polo shirt. Shades hid his eyes. The lady met Gwen’s gaze, waved and smiled.

  “Would you like to join them?” the waiter asked.

  Gwen chewed on her lip as she hurried to decide what to do. Although they were strangers, they appeared nice and friendly. She guessed the couple were married. Maybe they wanted company, someone different to converse with. What harm could come from having brunch with two other travellers?

  “Yes. I’ll sit with them.” Gwen gave a single nod.

  “I’ll bring your tea.”

  Gwen grabbed the menu and her purse as the waiter gathered her cup and the teapot. She rose then followed him towards the happy couple. As she approached them, they stood and placed their napkins on the table. The man was several inches taller than the woman.

  “Hi,” said the blonde. Her blue eyes nearly matched the colour of the sky. She offered her hand to shake. “My name is Susan Haggerty.”

  “Nice to meet you.” Gwen accepted Susan’s greeting. “I’m Gwenevere Stratten.”

  “I’m her husband, Jonathan.” He extended the same kindness. His British accent matched his wife’s.

  Gwen let go of Susan’s grasp and shook Jonathan’s hand. “Thank you for inviting me to your table.”

  “It was my wife’s idea.”

  “A beautiful woman shouldn’t sit alone on a gorgeous day like today.” Susan smiled.

  “Quite right. I couldn’t agree more.” He gestured with his free arm towards the chairs. “Please, have seat.”

  Gwen chose the one closest to Susan and scooted it away from the table enough so she could squeeze in without pulling it forward. She sat then placed her purse on the ground near her left foot.

  “Do you need a few more minutes to decide?” the waiter asked.

  Gwen quickly glanced at the table, wondering if Susan and Jonathan had eaten. They each had a cup and saucer but no plates of food.

  “We ordered a few minutes ago.” Jonathan turned to his wife.

  “Feel free to order anything you’d like. We’re putting it on our tab.”

  “Oh, no. That’s not necessary.” Gwen shook her head.

  Susan slid her hand over the table and placed it on top of Gwen’s. A large diamond ring decorated Susan’s finger. “It’s our way of saying hello and joining us. Please, don’t give it a second thought and order what you’d like.”

  “I appreciate your generosity.” Gwen met the waiter’s eyes. “I’d like a blueberry muffin, please, and a bowl of fruit.”

  “Will that be all, miss?”

  “Yes. Thank you,” Gwen said.

  The waiter shifted to the couple. “Can I offer either of you anything else?”

  “We’re fine. Isn’t that right?” Jonathan grinned at Susan.

  “Yes, we’re fine.” She placed the napkin back on her lap.

  The waiter took Gwen’s menu before he left without another word.

  Gwen faced her new friends. “Thank you again for your hospitality.”

  “It’s our pleasure.” Susan turned to her husband. “Right?”

  “Absolutely.” Jonathan leaned his elbows on the table and clasped his hands together. “What brings you to Dromoland? Are you staying here with anyone?”

  “No, I’m staying here by myself. I’m from the States, the mid-west to be more specific. I’ve been divorced for many years and raised two daughters who are now in college. I always wanted to travel in Europe, so I booked a vacation. This is my last stop before I hea
d home in a few days.”

  “How delightful,” Susan said. “Where have you travelled?”

  “London, Paris, Rome, Vienna, Amsterdam and here.”

  Susan lifted her cup. “Sounds like you’ve had a lovely vacation.”

  “It’s been wonderful. Everyone I’ve met has been generous and…” She sighed heavily. “Amazing.”

  “That was a big sigh.” Susan lowered her drink. “Did you meet someone special?”

  Gwen pressed her lips together as she considered her answer. She’d met several unique men and had acquainted herself with them quite intimately. The memories would never leave her, thanks to the notes she kept in her diary.

  Gwen lifted her tea. “I was fortunate enough to meet very kind and extraordinary men.”

  Susan arched her eyebrows. “Men? Well now, that does sound like a nice vacation.” She grinned at her husband.

  “She is a very attractive woman,” Jonathan said, facing his wife. “I would imagine she’d have plenty of men at her bedside, especially since she is single.” He turned his gaze to her. “Or do you have a boyfriend?”

  Gwen glanced at Susan. She held a bright smile as she waited for Gwen to answer. Apparently, she didn’t mind Jonathan asking such questions. “No, no boyfriend. I’m enjoying my independence.”

  Susan crossed her arms as she leaned them on the table. “Independent, smart and beautiful. You must have many lovers.”

  Gwen chuckled. “I’m flattered by your compliments.” She didn’t know what else to say. It seemed somewhat odd to her how they continued to appraise her, but she suspected they were being friendly.

  Two waiters arrived with food and every dish looked appetising. Susan had ordered an omelette covered with cheese. Jonathan’s plate had a thick steak with an egg and muffin on the side. Gwen’s fruit bowl was twice the size she’d imagined but contained a variety of melons, grapes and berries. Once the waiters left, she plucked her favourite piece of fruit first from the bowl, then ate it. The strawberry’s juice tasted heavenly.