Twenty Times Tempted: A Sexy Contemporary Romance Collection

by Petrova, Em

  Even though Prue regretted that her best friend was lying ill in bed, she couldn’t believe her good fortune. First, she would spend the next four days working beside one of TV’s amazing and accomplished women, and two, she would get to attend a grand, black tie function, rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous. Her stomach did a nervous flip and she pinched herself to make sure she wasn’t dreaming.

  Prue was grateful for both opportunities and also that her brother was in town because he could babysit while she attended the event rather than her having to ask Yolanda. Her life had taken a sudden upturn and she was so happy. She shut down her computer, collected her belongings and headed for the stairs.

  On the way home, Prue told her brother all about her day and how Rachelle had asked her to attend the charity auction on her behalf because she was too ill. Toby seemed concerned about her and asked if she was alright. Prue told him Rachelle had a bad case of the flu and sounded dreadful, but if she knew her friend at all she would be back on her feet as soon as the antibiotics kicked in. She wondered if anyone at the studio had informed Rachelle of who was sitting in for her while she was away. That piece of news might just hasten her recovery.

  Chapter Twenty

  Prue put the finishing touches to her makeup while Yolanda fashioned her hair into a soft chignon. The style was perfect for the gorgeous dress Prue would be wearing. Rachelle’s black and silver evening gown was sophisticated and stunning. The luxurious bodice had dazzling cap sleeves and featured sparkling crystal swirls over a delicate, skin tone transparent fabric. The silky, layered black chiffon skirt cascaded to the floor-length hemline, giving it an elegant ethereal appearance. It was divine, and, after trying it on the night before to make sure it was a perfect fit, Prue couldn’t wait to wear it this evening.

  Once her hair and makeup were done, Prue slipped into the delicate gown and slid her feet into a pair of strappy, five inch glittering silver heels. Yolanda had loaned her a set of chandelier earrings and necklace to match and Prue felt like a princess when she stepped up to the full-length mirror and saw her reflection. Tears of joy stung the backs of her eyes. She couldn’t believe how lovely she looked.

  After spraying the pulse points on her throat, between her breasts and on her wrists with Jádore perfume she opened the bedroom door, walked down the hallway into the living room and did a twirl.

  Nikki drew in a surprised breath. “Oh, Mommy, you look like a beautiful princess.”

  Toby stood up and watched his sister twirl around. “You look stunning, sis. You’re going to be beating men off with a stick.”

  Prue’s cheeks flushed. “Thanks big brother. Nice to get a man’s opinion.”

  Yolanda came up behind her. “Let me give your hair a light spray, just to hold it in place. There, now you’re ready to go.”

  The doorbell rang and Yolanda opened the door.

  “Good evening, I’m here to pick up Prue Granger,” the limousine driver said. When he saw her his smile widened. “Are you ready Miss Granger?”

  Prue felt like Cinderella going to the Prince’s ball. “Yes, I am. Thank you.” She picked up her wrap and evening bag, kissed her daughter goodnight, and followed the driver down the stairs and out to the elegant black limousine waiting by the curb, courtesy of CBS. Her transformed pumpkin carriage. She sighed with happiness as the driver opened the door for her. What a wonderful evening this is going to be.

  ***

  The limousine pulled into the curb directly opposite the triple brass doors and the driver stepped out of the car and opened the rear passenger door for Prue, offering his gloved hand to assist her out of the vehicle. Prue took his hand, lifted her skirt and stepped onto the red carpet adorning the sidewalk and leading into the columned building. Her heart did a little shudder as she gazed at her surroundings and the people entering the function. What an amazing night.

  The driver gave her his card and said to call him at the number printed on it thirty minutes before pick up and he would arrive within that time to take her home. He tipped his hat and said, “Have a good evening, Miss,” then returned to the limousine and eased into the traffic.

  Prue swallowed the nervous lump in her throat, inhaled deeply, and entered the magnificent building.

  The interior of the refurbished, austere, 1920s style bank building was incredible. Patterned Doric columns lined both sides of the expansive, subtly lit ballroom and around the walls a large mural, painted in 1929 by Griffith Baily Coale, depicted thirty-six generations of sailing ships. It took Prue’s breath away. She had never been in such a magnificent room before.

  Round banquet tables dotted the floor and were dressed with red covers, white place settings and red serviettes to match. The floral centerpieces were an assortment of red and white roses, yellow winter jasmine, baby’s breath and leatherleaf ferns. They looked amazing.

  A waiter carrying a tray of drinks stopped and handed Prue a champagne flute. She smiled, thanked him and took a sip of bubbly. She wandered the tables looking for her number and located it close to the stage. A front row seat. She was about to pull out her chair when a hand reached over and pulled it out for her. “Please, let me,” the smooth voice said.

  Prue glanced up and came face to face with gorgeous, in demand, actor Ty Kitson. “Thank you.” She sat down and he joined her at her table.

  “What’s a beautiful woman like you doing here alone?” His smile was infectious.

  “A last minute change of plans. My friend came down with the flu and couldn’t make it.” She sipped her champagne, her heart fluttering, and did her best to act sophisticated.

  “Do you mind if I sit here for a while?” He swallowed the last mouthful of his drink.

  “No, not at all.” She held out her hand. “I’m Prue.”

  He took her hand. “Ty. Good to meet you.”

  She glanced around the tables. “Are you here with someone?”

  “My date hasn’t arrived yet. She was held up by a last minute change to a scene they’re shooting.”

  “Oh. Well probably not a good idea to upset her when she does get here. I appreciate the offer, but I’m fine sitting by myself.” She couldn’t believe she was sending the handsome actor on his way. “Thanks though.”

  “If you’re sure?” He gave her a curious frown.

  Prue nodded. “I think it’s best.”

  He smiled and stood up. “It’s been a pleasure, although brief. Have a good evening.”

  “Thank you. You too. It’s wonderful meeting you.” She smiled.

  The actor picked up his empty glass, gave her one last look and threaded his way through the tables to the bar.

  Prue sighed. Pity he wasn’t on his own. Oh well. She perused the evening’s agenda and was in awe of the wonderful items celebrities, authors and artists had donated for such a worthy cause. Author J. P. Peterson had offered a signed copy of book one from each of his mystery series, singer Crystal provided a dazzling, red jeweled costume she’d worn on one of her world tours, actor Jay Dee donated a self-portrait, and rock band Minute by Minute provided a signed guitar. The list of incredible treasures went on and on.

  Two middle-aged ladies, dressed to the nines, joined her table and introduced themselves. Prue did the same and they struck up a conversation. The room filled to capacity in no time and the noise level elevated. Guests were having a wonderful time and drinks flowed freely.

  The lights flickered and everyone knew it was time to take their seats, the evening was about to begin. Prue felt butterflies in the pit of her stomach and took another sip of champagne. She had been given the option to bid if the item was noteworthy and would fit in the display cabinets adorning the foyer at the broadcast center.

  Once the guests were seated, the emcee appeared on stage. “Good evening, everyone. My name is Gerry Buchanan. I’m only one of the many who organized this function. Later on, a list of all the volunteers who have given up their valuable time and have been nothing short of amazing will appear on the screen beh
ind me. Thank you for being here tonight for such a worthy cause, The Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital. All of the proceeds from tonight’s dinner and auction will assist with extensive research into life-threatening childhood diseases and to also bring some Christmas cheer to the seriously ill boys and girls who have to remain in the hospital while undergoing treatment during the holidays.

  “I want to thank everyone who contributed. Without you this auction wouldn’t have been possible. Your generosity is outstanding. We have some wonderful items on display over to your left, I hope you’ve taken the time to have a look and have chosen what you’ll be bidding for tonight.

  “Now for some general housekeeping. In the event of an emergency you will be directed to the nearest exit, which is highlighted by a red exit sign. Ladies and men’s restrooms are on the right and appropriately signed. If you have any questions please come and see me or the door staff at the main entrance.

  “Alright, without further ado, let’s get this show on the road with Glenn Miller tribute band, Serenade.”

  Chapter Twenty One

  After dinner guests left their tables and headed to the bar or the restrooms, whichever seemed more urgent. Prue remained in her seat at the empty table and when a waiter came by with flutes of champagne she asked for another glass and handed him her empty one.

  During an earlier portion of the evening, the emcee had asked everyone to participate in an icebreaker by playing musical tables. Everyone would have until the music stopped to reach a table they wanted to sit at and three minutes to have a conversation with other guests before moving on to another table. Prue heard people saying “Sorry,” “Excuse me,” and “Hi, how are you? Let’s catch up later,” as they shuffled past other guests in the crowd. She managed to speak to a few celebs and artists on her way around and had even been given the phone number of one actress who had a daughter the same age as Nikki and asked her to catch up for coffee.

  Prue was breathless as she gazed around the expansive ballroom in awe of how many celebrities had made an appearance at the event. What a wonderful turn out. Her cell phone buzzed inside her evening purse and she pulled it out to see who was calling. “Hello, Rachelle. Feeling any better?”

  “I’m getting there, hon,” she rasped, her throat still sore. “How’s the evening going? Having fun?”

  “It’s amazing! I’m having a fantastic time. I’m so sorry you couldn’t be here.”

  “Oh, don’t worry about that. I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself. Been swept off your feet by any handsome celebs yet?” She coughed and sniffled.

  “Maybe not swept off my feet, but I did talk to Ty Kitson before the evening got started. He seems like a sweet guy. Unpretentious.”

  “Lucky you! He’s hot too.”

  “Even more so in person.” Prue giggled.

  “I’d better go. I just wanted to make sure you were having a good time.” She coughed. “My throat is so much sorer from talking. Have fun. See you when I’m not contagious.”

  “Take good care of yourself. I miss you.” Prue tapped the screen and returned the phone to her evening bag. She glanced across the room at the display of donated items and wandered over to take a closer look. Would ten thousand dollars cover anything up for grabs? She didn’t think so. And she wasn’t sure she was comfortable spending someone else’s money.

  She began at the far left end of the long table and inched her way past each item, stopping to read the description from time to time. There were some valuable pieces that she thought would raise more than a few thousand dollars, and that was what the event was all about. Prue kept edging along until she was at the center. Some of the bigger items were displayed there: Jay Dee’s painting, three signed guitars (from other bands and artists) and a number of movie props she recognized. How exciting.

  Prue continued moving past the items and stopped when she came to an assortment of signed copies of famous author books. Her eyes ran over the selection and her breath caught in her throat when she noticed several Nicholas Colton novels among the group. She swung around and gazed up and down the huge room. Is he here? He’d have to be, wouldn’t he? Prue’s heart shuddered and her face flushed. There were over five hundred guests at the event and she hadn’t seen him during the icebreaker. It didn’t seem likely he would spot her amongst all those people, nonetheless she was anxious. Should she call for the limousine and leave?

  Before she had time to make up her mind she heard his voice behind her.

  “Hello.” He couldn’t believe she was standing in front of him.

  Prue closed her eyes, inhaled deeply, then opened her eyes, put on her best smile and turned around. “Hello.”

  Nicholas scanned the ballroom searching for the tall man she had been with at the Halloween party.

  His eyes returned to her. “Are… are you here with anyone?”

  Prue wasn’t sure how to answer. Would she lie and say she was or tell him the truth? She knew she couldn’t lie. “No, I’m on my own. You?”

  “I’m here alone too. How are you?”

  “I’m well. How are you?” She hated small talk and wondered how she could remove herself from the uncomfortable situation without appearing rude.

  “Busy. I’m an author and I’m currently working on my next novel.”

  “Oh. That’s…”

  “Can I ask your name?” The words came out before he could stop them and a look of uncertainty crossed his face. He gave her a charming smile to mask his emotions.

  “We did agree to anonymity, remember?” Prue felt a nervous lump thickening in her throat, she couldn’t breathe. Why does this keep happening? Maybe Rachelle was right. Serendipity was toying with her.

  “That was so long ago.” He held out his hand. “Hi, I’m Nicholas. It’s wonderful to see you again.”

  She gazed at his hand but didn’t take it. Tears stung her eyes and she blinked them back. “I think it’s best to leave things as they are. Don’t you?”

  Nicholas stepped forward. “But why?” He didn’t want to lose her again.

  Prue stepped back. “Because we’re two different people now.”

  “Are we? I don’t see that.”

  “I’m sorry.” She turned on her stilettoed heel and threaded her way through the tables as fast as she could, heading for the main entrance, tears sliding down her face.

  “Please wait.” Nicholas followed her out to the street.

  Prue snatched her cell phone and the driver’s card out of her purse and fumbled to press the number into the keypad. “H – Hello?” She stopped. Nicholas was only a few feet away. She was trapped with no way to escape. She hung up.

  He came up behind her. “Can we please talk? That’s all I’m asking.”

  Prue shivered and pulled her sheer wrap around her shoulders. The chilly night air drifted through the delicate fabric of her gown connecting with her jangled nerves. “There’s nothing to say. We needed each other for one night. Let’s not make more of it than it actually was.” She hated herself for saying such a thing, knowing in her heart she had fallen in love with him all those years ago.

  Nicholas frowned at her. “Is that how you really feel?” He had hoped she regretted not telling him her name and how she might have felt. Perhaps she hadn’t felt anything at all. Perhaps he was the only one who had fallen in love that night.

  Prue nodded. “How am I supposed to feel? We both agreed to one night without emotional strings. And you’re right it was such a long time ago.” Her heart pounded against her breastbone and she couldn’t take a breath. She knew she was lying to him and to herself, but as much as her heart told her to she couldn’t allow him into her life. She had to protect her daughter.

  The look of desperation on Nicholas’ face almost unraveled her resolve but she couldn’t allow it to, she had to stay strong. She knew everything would change if she didn’t.

  “I thought…” He gave a heavy sigh. “I had hoped you’d feel differently.”

  Prue frowned. “Why?�
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  His eyes met hers. “Because I fell in love with you that night and I hoped you’d fallen in love with me too. We had a deeper connection than just sex. I felt it. Didn’t you?”

  That had been what he’d wanted to say when he looked across the hotel room at her. Prue had the overwhelming desire to run into his arms and tell him how she truly felt, but she wouldn’t. Too much was at stake.

  The driver must have recognized Prue’s phone number because the limousine pulled into the curb in front of her and the driver opened the back passenger door.

  “Take care of yourself, Nicholas. Goodbye.” Prue climbed into the elegant sedan.

  Nicholas stood on the red carpeted sidewalk and watched her leave his life once again, still knowing nothing about her except that she had captured his heart and there was nothing he could do about it.

  More tears spilled down Prue’s face and she sniffed back the urge to sob. Was she crazy for letting the man she loved, and who loved her, walk out of her life? Yes, but there was no other way. Nothing she could do would change that. She had lost so much once before and wasn’t about to let that happen again. She fumbled in her purse for a tissue and dabbed her cheeks. The driver frowned into the rearview mirror for a moment then asked, “Everything alright, Miss Granger?”

  The lump in her throat prevented her from answering and she gave a nod.

  He wasn’t convinced. “Are you sure? Is there something I can do?”

  Prue shook her head.

  “If you need anything just let me know. Ok?”

  She nodded and blew her nose. Tears continued to spill.