Desire in a Kiss

by Nicki Night

  Bobby Dale tilted his head. “Son, time doesn’t dictate what you feel.”

  Chris absorbed his father’s statement, letting it seep past the notion that time mattered. In fact, he was willing to remove time as a factor altogether and allow the magnetism that drew him in to take the lead. He was going to take the pressure off himself, enjoy Serenity’s company and see what happened.

  “Thanks.” Chris stood with a renewed sense of purpose.

  Back in his office, he jumped on the phone with Kent and Ray to confirm plans for later in the day. An area of the kitchen in the wine bar was still under renovation due to the fire. They had come a long way in a short period of time. Fortunately, the fire had been a small one, and business had only been affected for a few days before they were able to begin working around the damaged area.

  “We need to meet at the bar to go through some paperwork with our insurance guy. He said he could be there today at six,” Kent said.

  This would affect Chris’s prep plans for Serenity tonight, but he had to handle business. “Okay. Any idea how long it will take?”

  “He didn’t say. I’m hoping it won’t be long. We still have to get ready for the crowd later,” Ray added.

  “I know, and I wanted to pick Serenity up. I may have to have her meet me there.”

  “Oh, yeah!” Kent said. Chris imagined him rubbing the palms of his hands together, based on the way he sounded. “I can’t wait to officially meet her. Seeing her sprint through the gala last weekend didn’t count.”

  “What a way for her to find out. You’re lucky she answered your calls after that,” Ray said.

  “I’m still trying to figure out how it happened. That was a hell of a coincidence,” Kent said.

  “A coworker invited her because her boyfriend had some kind of work emergency.”

  “That should be a lesson for all of us. This world is way too small for fake online identities!” Ray’s laughter barreled through the phone line.

  “Ha!” Kent cosigned. “Speaking of online...I guess you’ve officially changed your perspective on online dating, huh?”

  “Whatever!” Chris said, dismissing their digs. “Serenity is a good woman. I’ll admit I never expected to meet someone like her.”

  Chris was the target of their teasing this time around. He took it well since he was often dishing it.

  A shadow caught Chris’s attention. He looked up to find Jewel standing in his office door.

  “I’ll catch up with you later. There’s some business I need to handle here.”

  “Cool.” That was Ray’s version of goodbye.

  “Don’t forget. Six o’clock,” Kent said.

  “Six o’clock,” Chris and Ray repeated.

  By the time Chris ended the call, Jewel was standing at his desk with an armful of files.

  “I have news.” Jewel dropped the files on the desktop. “Another major retailer is closing. Dad wants our preliminary plan by morning, showing how we’ll attempt to minimize the impact on business.”

  Chris sat back and huffed. One way or another, he was going to get to Serenity tonight.

  Chapter 21

  Despite being exhausted, Serenity still looked forward to seeing Chris. He’d become her respite. Spending time with him made her feel like she was pampering herself. Right now she needed to lavish herself with all the special attention she could obtain. As much as she loved teaching, her new schedule offered few breaks, and she was starting to feel the strain. The lessons she gave outside of work and planning for the gala swallowed any downtime she could have enjoyed. And the meeting with the board hadn’t lifted her spirits. Sponsorships and ticket sales were down from the previous year, despite doing all they could. As she drove home, all of these thoughts whirled in her mind.

  The one bright spot in her life, besides Chris, was the letter she had received from the Chandler Foundation. Her grant had been approved. After receiving the letter, Serenity had called Jade to say thank-you. Jade had made it clear that the funding had been approved because the foundation valued the work that Heartstrings was doing, and the fact that Serenity was dating her brother had no bearing on their decision. Happily, she reached out to her contacts in Brazil and was now awaiting their response about when they would like to start the program. Even though her school year would end in several weeks, in South America they were approaching the middle of their school year. Since she hadn’t heard from her contacts yet, she assumed they’d want to start the program early next year when their new term began.

  At eight on the dot, Chris called.

  “Hey there, Mr. Chandler.” She spoke through the Bluetooth system in her car.

  “How’s it going, beautiful?”

  “On an amazing note, I got the grant for the program in South America, but I figured you probably knew that.” Serenity mustered up the strength to squeal.

  “Congratulations! Jade did mention it but, as a board member, I don’t usually get involved in the day-to-day operations of the foundation business. She handles all of that.”

  “I’m so excited but totally exhausted.”

  “Sounds like your day was like mine. Tell me about it.”

  Serenity unloaded the toils of the past twelve hours on Chris, who listened attentively. She had to admit that it felt great to vent.

  “I hope you’re not too tired for tonight. We have to celebrate, but it sounds like kicking back is just what you need after such a long day.”

  “I’ll be just fine, Chris.”

  “Will you still be ready by eight thirty?”

  “Can we make it nine?”

  “That won’t be a problem. Your driver will be waiting.”

  “My driver? Chris—”

  “See you later, beautiful.”

  “Chris,” she said again and heard him chuckle. “Fine. See you later,” she added, abandoning her attempt to get him to reveal more information. It never worked anyway.

  When Serenity hung up with him, she dialed her mom. “Hey, lady.” She paused. “Why are you breathing hard?”

  “I’m running,” Avis Williams said.

  “From who?” Serenity couldn’t help her outburst. She leaned toward the steering wheel from laughing so hard.

  “Silly! I’m with your dad.”

  “He’s running too?”

  “I wish. At least he’s out here with me.”

  “Wow! I’m so proud of both of you.”

  “I think he got jealous of all the weight we lost. He’s trying to get in on the action.”

  “That’s good. Want me to call you back?”

  “Talk to me. I can run and listen at the same time.”

  “I met somebody.”

  “Wait!” The phone went silent for a moment. “Now say that again,” her mother said, panting.

  “I met someone.”

  “That’s what I thought you said. Details!”

  “I didn’t mention anything at first because I wasn’t sure if he’d be around long because we met—” Serenity wasn’t sure how her mother would respond “—online.”

  “Online! You?”

  “Yeah, I know. But, Mom, he’s charming, considerate—gorgeous. I’ve even met his family, his parents and sisters.” Serenity kept the fact that he was a Chandler and that he owned a wine bar to herself for now. She told her mother about how quickly their relationship had progressed.

  “When do I get to meet him?”

  “Soon, Mom. I’ve been so busy.”

  “I know, honey. With school, Heartstrings, the gala, lessons...”

  “I’m so glad you understand, Ma.”

  “I used to be such a busy lady too. Just don’t burn yourself out. I miss you.”

  “I miss you too.”

  “Oka
y. Let me get back to running. I’m looking forward to checking this dude out.”

  “Soon enough.”

  “Bye, sweetie.”

  Serenity blew a kiss to her mom before hanging up, then pulled into her parking spot. She had just enough time for a quick turnaround. She didn’t even bother taking the mail from the box as she passed it. Inside her apartment, she dropped her bag near the door, kicked off her shoes and headed straight for the shower. Standing under the hot spray, she closed her eyes and allowed the pulsing water to knead the stress from her muscles. Feeling refreshed, she anointed her body with peppermint body butter. The aroma invigorated her.

  She searched her closet for something to wear. Chris hadn’t given her any information, so she had no idea how to dress. Sliding hangers aside, she spotted a black strapless romper. She pulled it out, looked it over and noticed the tags were still attached. She remembered that it had been too tight when she’d first brought it home. She groaned and almost put it back in the closet. “Let’s just see,” she said aloud, turning to her full-length mirror. Serenity held the romper up to her body and sighed.

  “What the heck.” She stepped into the garment. “Come on, now. Be nice and fit.” She glided the romper past her curves with ease. “It fits!” she squealed. Turning to the side, she admired the outfit. Her brilliant smile gleamed in the mirror. She felt even better than she had after the shower.

  The doorbell rang at the same time as her phone. Picking up the cell, she trotted to the door.

  “Hey, you.”

  “Are you ready, beautiful?” The sounds of Chris’s deep voice seeped to her core, awakening that spark that only he had been able to stir.

  Serenity looked out the window, spotting a limousine and the shadow of a body at her door.

  “The driver’s here? I can’t believe it’s nine o’clock already! I need two more minutes.”

  “I’ll tell him that you’ll be right out.”

  “Thanks. See you soon.”

  Excitement raced through her like an electric current. She’d all but forgotten how tired she was. Jogging back to her room, she pulled a tapered jacket from the closet, stuck a pair of dangling earrings in her ears and slipped her feet into a pair of low comfortable pumps. Her outfit was casual enough for a relaxed atmosphere and chic enough for something more upscale. Snatching her purse on her way out the room, she made her way outside. The driver was waiting for her at the door. He escorted her to the car, opened the door and made sure she was settled before taking the driver’s seat.

  It had been years since Serenity had ridden in a limo. She looked around at the lights running along the ceiling, ran her hand along the fine leather seats and then spotted a white box. Upon closer inspection, she saw that her name was written on it. She opened the package to find an arrangement of exotic chocolates and a card that read delectable and rare, just like you. She held the card to her chest and shook her head. That Chris sure did know how to make a girl blush. One by one, she picked up each piece and inhaled its aroma. They smelled so sweet. Serenity already knew this was going to be the perfect way to end her evening. She’d be tired tomorrow when she arrived at school, but the struggle would be well worth it. Nestling into the seat, she laid the chocolates across her lap and took in the scenery flitting by the window.

  A while later, the vehicle pulled to a stop. The driver opened her door and helped her out. Serenity stood, taking notice of the trendy block with coffeehouses, restaurants and shops. They were parked in front of a place with a black awning with the words The Reserve written in crimson. Several patrons sat in the cool breeze at the café tables sprinkled along the sidewalk.

  “You’re just in time.” Chris met her at the entrance with two other men. “Serenity, meet my friends and business partners, Kent and Ray. Welcome.”

  “Hello, gentlemen. Nice to meet you.”

  “Pleasure to meet you too, Serenity.” Kent shook her hand.

  “Nice seeing you again,” Ray said.

  “I’m sorry. We’ve met?”

  “Not officially. We were at the gala with Chris last week. We mostly saw the back of your head.”

  Serenity’s hand flew to her mouth. “I’m sorry.”

  “No need to be embarrassed,” Kent said with a smile.

  “I’m glad to meet you on much better terms.”

  “Oh, believe me, the pleasure is ours. We finally have someone to take Chris off our hands,” Ray teased.

  Chris chuckled and led her to a seat near a stage set up for a band. She scanned the space, admiring the contemporary decor. One entire wall held bottles of wine behind glass casings.

  “Will the band play tonight?” Serenity asked as she sat down.

  “Just for you. Now, what do you feel like having?” Chris asked, then nodded at a short blonde, who walked over and handed her a menu. Chris sat across from Serenity.

  “What do you recommend?”

  “We have an amazing Pinot Noir. You could pair that with our choice cheese, chocolate and cracker platter. The duck or veggie flatbreads are pretty popular. We also have delicious salads and sliders—veggie, mushroom, turkey or beef. You pick.”

  “So much of this menu sounds tasty. I think I’ll go for the...” Serenity looked up and down the menu once more. “Okay, I’ll take the Pinot Noir and the duck flatbread.”

  “Excellent choice.” Chris looked into her eyes and held her gaze a moment. Serenity’s cheeks felt flush once again. “You look beautiful tonight. I hope you enjoy yourself.”

  “I can already tell that tonight is going to be great.”

  He kissed the back of her hand. “I hope so.” Serenity heard some rumbling. Chris smiled.

  “Hi, Serenity.” It was a trio.

  Serenity looked up, and her eyes met with Chris’s sister Chloe. Right behind her stood Jewel and Jade.

  “Hi, ladies.” Standing, she embraced each sister.

  Jade and Jewel joined her at the table. Chloe remained standing. The friend that Chris had introduced as Ray introduced a pretty girl as his fiancée, Brynn. Another round of greetings circulated as Brynn joined them at the table.

  Kent took the small stage where the instruments were set up and welcomed everyone. “We’ve got something special in store for tonight. Are you ready?”

  “Woo!” a few patrons yelled. Some clapped. First I’d like to call Chris’s big sister Chloe to the stage.”

  Just then, a tall gentleman stepped up and kissed Chloe with an affection so sweet it made Serenity blush. He also joined them at their table. Jewel and Jade stood and hugged him before introducing him to Serenity as Chloe’s fiancé, Donovan Rivers.

  Chloe took the stage and absorbed the entire crowd’s attention. One or two random requests were shouted from the audience. Chloe smiled and winked, not making any promises.

  The band fell in place behind her. She consulted with the keyboard player for a brief moment. He nodded to the other players, and the drummer tapped four beats before they all joined in. Chloe began singing a jazzy ballad, mesmerizing the audience, including Serenity and, especially, Donovan.

  After her next song, Chloe returned to their table, waving at the adoring crowd. Donovan pulled Chloe into a tight embrace and kissed her as if they were alone in the room. Serenity smiled and looked away, feeling like she was intruding on their intimate moment. Donovan seemed to be pretty smitten by Chloe. He held her hand even though they sat right next to each other. Serenity admired the careful attention they paid to one another. She believed she could have that with Chris. He was so considerate and attentive to her.

  Serenity cast her eyes toward the ceiling. What was she doing? She and Chris were just starting out. Who knew what the future held? Though she had every intention of finding out, she wanted to be cool about it. If it worked out well, that would be wonderful. If not, she wou
ld always enjoy the time she’d spent getting to know him. If this was meant to be, it would happen, she told herself.

  Serenity was catapulted from the recesses of her private thoughts when she heard Chris call her name. He was onstage, encouraging her to join him. Serenity looked around as everyone clapped. Chloe urged her to go. Serenity took a sip of her wine, put her napkin aside and stood. Applause erupted. She shook her head at Chris and smiled.

  Onstage, Chris took her hand. “We’re going to play together.” His slick smile alerted her to the fact that his pun spoke of more than just the instruments.

  Serenity giggled. No stranger to playing before crowds, she still felt the adrenaline course through her veins.

  “Pick your instrument,” Chris told her.

  She looked at the keyboard and pointed. Chris approved with a wink. Serenity sat behind it and tinkered with the keys. “So, what are we going to play, Mr. Chandler?”

  Chris tilted his head toward Ray, who drummed an intro. With his sax, Chris laid his melody over the instrumental version of a popular soul song about lovers getting to know each other. Serenity bobbed to the drumbeat, smiling her admiration of Chris’s musical skills. He had the sax matching every nuance of the lyrics. Still swaying, she began strumming keys, artfully filling the room with harmony.

  Moving and playing, she tucked her bottom lip into her mouth and allowed the music to carry her away. The room ceased to exist, leaving only the pulse of the drumbeat behind. It was just Chris and her. He faced her, blowing notes with his eyes connected to her soul. She felt him inside her heartbeat, making her feel sexy. The rhythm became sultry. She looked down at the piano keys momentarily and set her eyes back on Chris. He winked at her. The womanly parts of her awakened. They teased each other with notes and riffs, sensually caressing one another with the music they created.

  The song ended but their sultry connection continued. Serenity stood, and Chris put the sax aside. The audience was on their feet, whooping, clapping, cheering. Their gazes remained linked. Serenity sauntered over to Chris. It felt like she floated. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her lips. Taking her hand, they faced the audience and bowed. She could feel the quickening of his pulse in their hands. Still caught up in the exhilarating effects of the music they had created together, she became aware of the rhythm of her own heartbeat. That was the most fun she’d ever had performing in front of a crowd. She wanted to walk off the stage and go straight home to lie in Chris’s arms.