by Tia Louise
So much warmth floods my body when I think of him, of last night, of this morning. Being with him was so much more than I expected—and I’d fantasized a lot. He’s seductive and possessive, but at the same time, he’s attentive and curious, delicate and demanding.
He didn’t just make love to my body. He made love to my mind. He didn’t simply chase his own orgasm, letting me work mine out on my own. It was as if he studied my touch, followed the experience of our bodies moving together, savored my kisses.
Even this morning was hot, grinding out a quickie. He just grabbed me and took it, and I rode along, basking in the heat of primitive desire.
Like the drop of black in the bright white, a thread of fear trickles through my chest. We can’t possibly go back to the way we were before we came here. Not only do I have to get my own place, I’m not sure I can even work for him anymore. Can I?
I don’t want to think about this now. I will ignore the twist of fear and focus on this enchanted evening. Anyway, Drew has the solution—direct deposit!
Exhaling through a nervous laugh, I swallow the tightness in my throat and do a little spin, holding my hands over the rich satin rippling to the floor. Negative thoughts aren’t allowed here. Tonight I’ll let the fantasy play out.
I’ll be the princess at the ball with the gorgeous prince. I’ll exult in the way he looks at me as if his eyes can’t get enough. I’ll be beautiful for him and we’ll dance and swirl through the clouds.
My feelings and our problematic reality can stay in Oakville.
Tonight, it’s all about the dream.
Remi wanders through the hotel bar looking toe-curlingly handsome in his black tux. I sent a message for him to meet me here, and I came down ten minutes early so I could have a drink and be at the bar when he appeared.
My dress is one of those high-low numbers, so sitting in the chair puts my crossed legs on full display. My hair hangs in thick waves down my back, and I watch as his brow furrows, as he scans the faces.
The muscle in his jaw moves attractively. He likes being in control, and I’ve tilted him off balance. It makes me smile a little as I watch him. Frustration tightens his expression. I’m right here, sexy prince…
When his eyes finally land on mine, his expression melts into hot desire and a thrill surges through my stomach. This is so much better than meeting in my room.
His gaze is fixed on me as he closes the space between us. “You like playing games, Miss Banks.”
The tone in his voice has my body humming, and when he touches my back, I can’t help a shiver. “It’s not a game, Mr. Key. I wanted to have a glass of wine before we left for the gala.”
His eyes flicker to the glass of Pinot Gris on the bar in front of me. “No tequila tonight?”
“Maybe later. I figured we should start out a little more sophisticated.”
“Don’t get too formal on me.”
Slipping out of my chair, my heels bring me closer to his eye level. His hands are on my waist, his fingers toying with the bare skin of my back. I’m surrounded by his warmth, the earthy scent of his cologne. It’s heady and exhilarating.
I straighten his black bowtie, leaning closer to kiss his jaw. “Being formal can be a fun change.”
A naughty smile curls his lips, that sexy dimple teasing me. “I should have already told you you’re beautiful. I look forward to getting you out of this dress after the party.”
“Then let’s get the party started.”
A limo takes us to the gala… Actually, we abandon the car in a long line of limos when we arrive. Remi holds my hand, leading me up the carpeted stairs. He’s obviously distracted by what’s to come. His phone lights up several times as we walk, and while I’m not trying to look, I see Stephen’s name at the top of the screen.
My hand is in the crook of his arm as we enter the convention hall, and I feel like a queen. It’s an elaborate space. The floors are marble, and the windows soar to the roof, allowing breathtaking views of the city. Chandeliers like icicle waterfalls are dotted throughout, and music floats in the air. I can tell it’s a live jazz band, but I can’t see it through the throng of men and women in formal attire.
Everyone appears very important and focused. I do my best to keep my shoulders straight and my chin up… like Remington Key’s date should be. He’s as important and connected as all these people, and I don’t want to let him down.
Leaning against his shoulder, I whisper. “Are you nervous or excited? Personally, I’m scared to death.”
He chuckles softly. “You have nothing to be afraid of. I’m afraid of all the men who’ll try to steal you from me.”
“You don’t have to worry. I’m not going anywhere.” My stomach squeezes.
The words are out so fast, so automatic. I can’t believe I just said them out loud.
The smile in Remi’s profile eases my anxiety. “Stephen said he’s waiting at the east bar. If you don’t mind, I’ll take you to him while I track down Stellan and secure his business.”
“Why is Stephen here? Is he an investor or a developer?”
“Neither and both.” Remi stops to shake an older man’s hand.
I wait as they exchange brief small talk, then we’re moving again. I can tell Remi’s focused on finding this tech guy Stellan.
“So Stephen is both?” I pick up where we left off before Mr. Old Guy interrupted us.
“Stephen likes to be the idea guy, start with his own inspiration then decide whether he wants to create it all himself or hire someone else to do the work. Then he and I and a small group of investors fund the final product.”
“He sounds really smart.”
“He’s the smartest guy I know—and trust me, he’s the first to say it. Stephen’s got a big brain, a big ego, and a big bank account.”
Squinting my eye up at him, I tease. “I take it he doesn’t play well with others.”
Again, I get that partial laugh. “Not in the slightest.”
We’re finally through the hall, and I see Stephen leaning with one elbow on a high-top table. He’s also in a tux, and his blue eyes are intense.
He’s actually very handsome, and I wonder why he doesn’t have a plus one tonight. I think I can guess. No one tells Stephen Hastings what to do.
Reaching for my arm, he passes me a glass of white wine as he moves me from Remi’s side to his. “Stellan’s just across the room by the bar. If you go now, I think you’ll have him all to yourself.”
I’m impressed by how slick that handoff was. Remi seems less eager to ditch me, which smooths my ruffled feathers.
Turning to face me, he touches my arm. “I don’t expect this to take very long. Will you be okay hanging with this asshole for a few minutes? I promise to make it up to you.”
Pressing my lips into a smile, I step forward to kiss his cheek. “Break a leg.”
His hands catch my waist, holding me before I return to Stephen’s side. “Thank you for being here.”
He speaks into my ear before giving me a quick kiss that lights a fire all through my insides.
When he releases me, he grips Stephen’s arm. “Keep an eye on her.”
“She’ll be safe as the crown jewels.”
With that he’s gone, and I turn to face the piercing blue eyes of my guard. “I see you’ve graduated from assistant to… something more fun.”
Heat floods my cheeks, and I wish my face didn’t betray how flustered I get. “I was never his assistant.”
“You don’t say.” Stephen’s voice sounds bored. I slant my eyes at him, and he takes a sip of what I assume is vodka. “So you slept with him.”
He catches me mid-sip, and I almost choke on my wine. “You don’t beat around the bush, do you?”
“What’s the point?” He half-heartedly pats me on the back. It’s okay. I’m not coughing much. “We’re all adults here. Don’t act like you’re shocked.”
“I’m not shocked.” I shrug my shoulder. “I guess I’m used to people being a l
ittle subtler with their digs.”
“It wasn’t a dig.” He eyes me up and down. “I appreciate you bringing him out of retirement. Remi was too young to lay down and die like he almost did.”
“I really don’t know what you mean.” My voice is quiet as I take a sip of wine. It pains my heart to think of Remi wanting to die. “We’ve only known each other about a month. Less than a month, actually.”
“So how’d you meet? Are you in tech?”
Inwardly, I cringe. I’m not sure how this confession is going to play out. “He hired me to be the nanny.” That sounds wrong. “To be Lillie’s nanny.”
Stephen chortles… yes, he literally chortles. “Classic. Remington’s sleeping with the nanny.”
The way he says it irritates me—probably because it’s the way I expect everyone to say it. “I only took the job to help him out. He was having some sort of conflict with his mother-in-law. It was very frustrating to him.”
“Eleanor.” Stephen nods, taking another sip. “Dragon lady.” My eyes narrow, and I try to decide if I’m offended. He doesn’t give me the chance. “Oh, please. Everyone’s so ready to get their panties in a knot these days. Eleanor’s not even Asian, but you know what I mean when I say it.”
I do know what he means.
“She can be a bit much.” My mind returns home briefly. “I’m going to have to resign. I don’t see how we can go back to having a platonic relationship.”
He turns, putting both elbows on the table. “In my experience, there’s no putting that genie back in the bottle. What will you do if you’re not Lillie’s nanny? Do you have another position waiting in the wings?”
Finishing my wine, I shake my head. “I have a master’s in social work. Before I started with Remi, I was a therapist at the clinic in town.”
“So you’ll go back to shrinking heads?”
“That’s not technically what I did. It’s not really what I want to do again. The idea was I’d figure it out while I worked for him.”
“Did you?”
I swallow the knot in my throat. “I got a little distracted.”
Confessing my lack of direction makes me feel irresponsible, guilty. The crowd is growing thicker, but through the bodies, I see my prince making his way toward us. His entire demeanor has changed. His eyes are bright, and a victorious smile is on his lips. Just the sight of him sweeps the dark feelings away.
“Good luck with whatever you decide, Miss Banks. I hope it works out for you.” Stephen leans down and air-kisses at my temple. “Thank you again for bringing my boy back from the dead.”
He leaves me to meet Remi in a handshake. “How’d it go?”
“I got him.” He passes Stephen and catches me around the waist, lifting me in a squeeze that turns into a spin. “You’re my good luck charm. It’s time to celebrate.”
Leave it to Remi to find a karaoke bar in walking distance of the gala. I’m sitting in a round vinyl booth in a dim-lit, brick-walled cellar, and he’s onstage belting out “She Believes in Me.”
He’s singing it with gusto, clutching his chest and going down on one knee for the final words, and I can’t stop laughing. It helps I’ve had several more glasses of wine.
Stephen is across from me grimacing, and when Remi returns to the table, he complains loudly. “That song is the musical equivalent of a Lifetime movie.”
“It’s Ruby’s favorite Kenny Rogers song.” He slides in beside me, kissing me long and hard on the mouth.
He even pushes my lips apart and goes for a little tongue action, which elicits more groaning from our companion.
“Time to call it a night.” Stephen stands, tossing some bills on the table and pointing at Remi. “I remember when you could hold your liquor.”
“I’m holding my liquor.” Remi grabs me by the waist and hoists me out of the booth. “You’re right, though. We have an early flight tomorrow. Time to head back to the hotel and get busy.”
“Oh my God,” I gasp a laugh.
“Good work tonight.” Stephen grasps him by the shoulder. “Glad to have you back in the game.”
They clasp hands, and we say goodnight, heading out to hail a cab. Remi dismissed the limo when we took off on foot to the hall. It takes a little time to maneuver the traffic all the way to Midtown, and I wish I’d worn walking shoes.
It’s a lie. I love these heels and this dress and Remi in a tux. I feel like a true Cinderella.
In the elevator, Remi holds me by the waist. “You’re sleeping over at my place again. Don’t argue with me.” He gives me a little tug, and I grin.
“Okay, but don’t get used to it. Starting tomorrow, it’s back to business. You’re my boss. I’m Lillie’s nanny.”
“You know, banging the hot nanny is a very popular male fantasy.” He leans in to kiss my neck.
His breath tickles my skin, sending goosebumps flying down my arms. “Are you saying that’s why you hired me?”
“Not exactly.”
The bell rings, and we stumble out at the top floor. He clasps my hand, leading me across the marble tiles and into the elaborate suite. He’s fiddling with his phone, and we’re out on the balcony as music begins to play over the speakers hidden in the eaves.
Reaching out, he takes my hands and pulls me into a slow dance.
My face is right at his cheek. “Not exactly means partly.”
Exhaling, he kisses my temple. “I was attracted to you the first time I ever saw you.”
“That night in the bar?”
“That day on the church lawn when Drew introduced us. Lillie was squirming all over me, and you took one look and walked away.”
He extends his arm, moving me away from him in an impromptu dance, still holding my hand.
“I told you that wasn’t me.”
A sexy smile curls his lips, and have I mentioned how much I love that dimple?
“It was you.” He pulls me back into his arms, looking deep into my eyes. “Oakville isn’t big enough for two insanely sexy, smart, stubborn, irresistible, half-Korean beauties like you. Why deny it?”
“I was in a really bad head space back then.” My voice is quiet, and he rocks us side to side in time with the song. “I was using these silly dating apps, and they kept matching me with losers. I was pretty miserable. Way too far up my own butt.”
“I’d like to be far up your butt.”
My eyes widen. “Hello!”
We both start to laugh, but just as fast, his brow lowers. His face grows playfully stern, possessive. “I won’t lie and say I’m happy to hear about you dating other guys—”
“Trust me, the dates didn’t last very long. I usually sneaked out.”
“Good.” Leaning down, he kisses my lips. “So to answer your question, attraction might have had a little to do with your job offer.”
My hands are on his neck, and I gaze into his eyes. Here, on the balcony overlooking all of Manhattan, under a sky filled with stars, I’m sure I’ve found something money can’t buy.
“Don’t think for one minute attraction had nothing to do with me saying yes.” Rising on my toes, I meet his mouth, lips parted, tongues curling together.
His fingers tug on the strings holding my dress up, and I allow him to lead me into the suite, into the bedroom, into another night of heaven in his arms.
26
Remi
My daughter climbs Ruby like a tree as soon as we walk through the door. I’d be hurt, but watching Ruby scoop her up and carry her into the house fills me with such calm.
I don’t even mind being left alone to manage our luggage. I shake my head, grinning as I tip the limo driver and throw our hanging bags over my shoulder.
Eleanor meets me in the foyer with a stern expression as always. “I trust you had a successful trip?”
“More than successful. I landed the developer I was after and got leads on two more.” It has me feeling generous. “Thank you for keeping an eye on Lillie while I was away.”
“She’s my
granddaughter.” She says it as if it’s an unwritten decree. “I’ll do anything to keep her safe and be sure she’s cared for.”
“Good to know.” I have all the bags, and it doesn’t take long to have them deposited where they belong.
Dropping off Ruby’s things in her room, I hear her and Lillie in my daughter’s bedroom chattering as if they’re old friends who’ve been separated for months.
“There’s a new girl?” Ruby’s voice is surprised.
“Yes, and Louie tried to make her eat dirt just like he did me.” My daughter is very adult sounding—full of righteous indignation. “I marched over there, and in my most serious voice, I told him, ‘You’d better watch it, Mister.’”
“Then what happened?” Ruby sounds on the edge of her seat. I put my hand over my mouth so I don’t laugh.
“Bunny came with me and we played Mulan the rest of recess.”
“I see.”
Peeking my head in, I smile when I see them both in the middle of Lillie’s princess bed. “I hate to interrupt the party, but are we having penny cakes for lunch?”
“Daddy!” Lillie takes off running to me, and I scoop her up in my arms. “Penny cakes! Penny cakes!”
She pumps her little hand in the air like it’s a football game and I just scored the winning touchdown.
The rest of the day passes so fast. Even dinner with Eleanor doesn’t feel like a chore.
Perhaps I’m different, or maybe I’m seeing Ruby differently. She does her best to avoid conflict with Lillie’s grandmother, to compliment the dishes, and to guide my daughter’s manners, then she exits the scene as soon as possible. Eleanor doesn’t appear miffed when I tell her goodnight, which is a relief.
The temperatures are falling outside. The days are getting shorter, and the house is so quiet with everyone in their rooms. After spending a few hours at my desk following up with Stellan and the two potentials, I’m lying in my bed alone, wishing we were back in that penthouse suite. I glance at the clock, and It’s almost eleven.