“Would you let me fall asleep holding you?”
“All night if you wanted.” And then they could start all over again in the morning.
“I wish you were here.”
He smiled and turned toward the spot next to him on the mattress, where she’d fit so perfectly. “Me too.”
“I could fall asleep right now.”
“You should. Let me stay right here with you. Just lie back, close your eyes, and picture everything we talked about. My hands on your skin, my mouth on your lips, and my body wrapped around you.”
“You’d feel so warm.” Her sleepy voice drifted lower.
“And you’re so soft. Let me pull your closer.” He paused, seeing it in his mind. Soft breaths came through the speaker. “Irisa?”
Deep, even breathing, and then she murmured in her sleep. He grinned. “Good night, sweetheart.”
He didn’t want to wait to feel her in his arms, or her body pressed against his. When he was with her, his frustration faded. She wouldn’t be back in L.A. for another week. No way would he wait that long to feel her again.
CHAPTER NINE
After a crazy, loud, and amazing performance on Friday night, which ended in a two a.m. diner stop for the band and their co-headliners, Assertive Ire, Irisa didn’t get to sleep until just before sunrise. Thankfully, the band had a rare Saturday off. Irisa slept until eleven, checked in on Jayne and the guys, and then spent the next few hours working while the Riptide game played in the background. Every time “Cut Down” came on, her pulse jumped. She did more watching than working, but couldn’t tear her gaze away from the TV. When the game ended, she looked at her to-do list and swore. Not even one thing accomplished.
A knock on the door drew her away from the spreadsheets on her screen. A glance at the bedside clock: five. Nearly time for dinner. Maybe one of the guys wanted to grab some food. She’d have to send them away, settle for room service, and spend the rest of the night playing catch-up.
She peered through the peephole.
Dom stood in the hall. She blinked and felt the blood rush from her head. She flung the door open wide. “You’re here.”
“I was in the neighborhood.” A half-smile curved his lips. He looked way too good in a navy t-shirt showcasing toned muscles and wide shoulders, and faded jeans slung low on his hips.
Her fingers itched to reach out to him but she held back. “How did you know which room was mine?”
“I ran into Zander in the lobby.”
She stepped back and allowed him entrance. When the door closed, he slid his arms around her back and brought her against him. “You sure it’s okay that I’m here?”
Behind his confidence, a hint of doubt lingered. She cupped her hand at his jaw, intent on chasing it away. “So very okay.”
Another smile, and then his head dipped low. Wetting her lips, she strained toward him. The room tilted as his mouth closed over hers. Warm lips, talented tongue, and light nips of his teeth tore a dizzying sensation through her like a hurricane.
His hands roamed low and brushed her skin just above the waistband of her shorts. She gripped his shoulders and angled her head for another storm-brewing kiss.
Clever fingers drew patterns on her skin, higher and higher up her back, and then he groaned deep in his throat. “You’re not wearing a bra?”
Reality snapped into focus. She pulled back enough to glance down at the pink tank top and striped sleep shorts she’d tossed on for a day of comfortable hotel room wear. “I, ah, guess not.”
His gaze darkened and focused on her chest. His thumb stroked her side, high on her ribs, close to her breast. “Your skin’s so soft.”
Twisting to meet his hand would be so easy. She wanted his hands on her, wanted to tear off his shirt and explore the muscles she’d felt there. But how well did she really know him? Oliver’s deceit had taught her a valuable lesson. Never give too much too soon.
But the stroking felt so good. She cupped his cheek again. “I should get dressed.”
“Don’t do anything on my account.” The teasing tone accompanied the slow slide of his hands down her back. His heated touch left her skin. He took a step back and shoved his hands in his pockets. “You’ve been in here all day?”
“I had some work to do.”
He eyed the desk cluttered with her computer and papers. “You work too much.”
“Not enough, actually, today. I spent the afternoon watching you. I mean, watching your game.”
“Yeah?” His brow quirked and he gave her that sexy half-smile again. “Want to walk on the beach? It’s a shame to miss out on something right outside your hotel window.”
“Give me five minutes to change.”
She took closer to ten, but he didn’t seem to mind. When they reached the beach, he linked their hands together.
The sand felt good between her toes. The crashing waves, seagull cries, and salt-tinged air were better than going to a day spa. “I remember the first time I saw the ocean. It was soon after we’d moved here. We walked to the water’s edge and the waves scared me. I remember grabbing my dad’s hand and screaming.”
“It must’ve been scary, coming here, not speaking the language.”
“Everything seemed so big and scary. We came here as refugees. My mom was a pharmacist and my dad was a physician over there, but their credentials weren’t accepted here, so they ran a cleaning service. We struggled for a long time. Zander and I helped out as much as we could. I owe them so much for bringing us to a country where we had more opportunities. That’s why it’s so important for us to be successful, to show them all the struggle was worth it.”
“I’m sure they’re proud of your success.”
“I like to think so. Being able to take care of them now is a good feeling.” She slowed her pace, enjoying the feel of his hand in hers. “What were your teammates doing tonight? Are you supposed to hang out with them on road trips?”
“Usually I would be hanging out with them, but no way was I passing up the chance to see you. Slade’s my roommate. He’s a few years younger than me and still into the bar scene. He reminds me a lot of my younger brother. It’s better when we’re home because then we have Liam with us. They keep each other out of trouble. It’s not the same being out without him.”
“Sounds like you and Liam are pretty close.”
“He’s a good friend. One of the most loyal guys I know. Anyway, I’m sure Slade’s found something to do. If it’s not a bar, he might be with Adam and his wife.”
“That’s right, he’s married to Gemma Hudson. I love her movies.”
“She’s good for him. Hell, they’re good for each other. Adam’s a lucky guy.”
“You seem like you’re pretty lucky, too. You have great friends and an adorable dog, you’re one of the best players in baseball, and you live in a beautiful apartment with a killer view.”
He stopped walking and turned to face her. “And I’m with you.”
A smile bloomed. “There’s that, too.”
Large hands cupped her face. He bent his head, eyes open and watching hers as he came closer. His expression intense, with a mix of curiosity. Something sweet welled in her chest. Wind whipped around them, tossing her hair into their faces. His fingers threaded through the strands, holding them back and holding her close. He kissed her like she was a dessert to be savored. Slow, nibbling kisses and the tease of his tongue.
After a long moment, he drew back. “If you don’t mind a bit of a drive, I found a place I think you’ll like.”
She had trouble regaining her breath. Man, that guy could kiss. “What is it?”
“You’ll see.”
Twenty minutes later, they pulled up in front of a Victorian mansion, painted pale green and white, complete with gables, a tower, and a wrap-around porch.
“What’s this?”
He smiled. “It’s a dessert-only restaurant. We’re having a wine and chocolate tasting.”
“You’re targeting my favori
te food groups. It’s a good thing I skipped dinner.” She climbed out of the car. Roses winding through trellises perfumed the air. He’d picked up on her chocolate addiction. He paid attention.
“I’ve seen the menu. They’ll feed you enough dessert to make up for it.” His hand rested on the small of her back as they made their way inside.
Ornate without being overly done. The room was stunning. At its center, straight out of a fairy tale, sat a staircase with wide wooden steps curved at the bottom, the railing and intricately carved spindles polished to a high shine. “Look at the staircase. It’s beautiful. I’ve always wanted to live in a house that has one like this.”
“So you could slide down the banister? It’s perfect for that.” He ran his hand over the post.
“When I was growing up, my mom learned English by watching old black-and-white movies. A few of them had very grand staircases. I always thought the most romantic thing was when the hero would carry the heroine up them.”
He grinned. “Straight into a happily ever after, huh?”
“Of course.” She laughed, feeling foolish for admitting it. Some silly, romantic notions were best left unsaid. She countered with a shrug. “But I’ll settle for the staircase.”
“No happily ever after for you?” His gaze trained on hers, his eyebrows lifted. Only a hint of the teasing smile remained.
Picturing Dom sweeping her into his arms and carrying her up the stairs in dramatic movie hero fashion was too easy. Heat curled low in her core and spread out. “Life isn’t like a movie.”
Thankfully, the hostess arrived and seated them. “We have nine pairings for you this evening.”
“Nine?” Irisa grinned at Dom. “I can’t wait. That’s a lot of chocolate.”
“And a lot of wine,” he added.
“Planning on taking advantage of me later?”
Surprise and brief embarrassment registered on his features. “No. I mean, yes. Wait.” He rubbed his forehead. “Let’s try that again. No pressing any advantage. We don’t have to rush into anything.”
She reached across the table and linked their fingers. “I was only teasing. But I appreciate what you said. It’s been a long time for me. I’d rather savor each moment.”
He smiled. “Me too. But please eat enough. I don’t want your brother calling me tomorrow if you show up at breakfast with a hangover.”
Laughing and talking, offering each other tastes, and seeking opportunities to touch, they sampled squares of white chocolate paired with a slightly sweet rosé, milk chocolate and Pinot noir, dark chocolate and Merlot, chocolate infused with sea salt paired with Zinfandel, chocolate peanut butter cups and tawny port, chocolate-covered strawberries with sparkling wine, caramel truffles and Madeira, mint-infused chocolate with Shiraz, and finally, a rich chocolate cake with port.
“I think I’m in heaven.” Irisa sat back in the chair. A pleasant buzz from the wine and chocolate and Dom’s company left her warm and happy. “My chocolate levels are restored.”
“Glad I could help you out.” He winked and downed the glass of water he’d requested.
The hostess suggested they stroll around the grounds, claiming the gardens were not to be missed in the moonlight. Lush with trees and plants and strings of twinkling lights, the garden seemed steeped in magic. And reaching for Dom’s hand seemed as natural as breathing. They wandered twisting paths dotted with benches and gazing balls and fishponds. Roses and hydrangeas and colorful flowers she couldn’t identify by name perfumed the air.
She stopped beneath a trellis covered in twining vines. “Thank you for tonight. This is beautiful.”
“The best view is from where I’m standing.” Dom grazed his thumb across her palm. He lifted his other hand to the back of her head and they met in a kiss that spiked her blood and weakened her limbs.
During the ride back to the hotel, Irisa studied his profile. He’d gone out of his way to see her and plan something special. She needed to do something for him, too. “When are you back home?”
“We fly home tomorrow night, then San Fran is visiting us for a three-game series. It’ll be good to get home, play in our ballpark, and see Liam and Champ. I have Thursday off.”
“We’ll be back home on Wednesday, then we have a show in L.A. on Thursday. Would you want to come and watch it from backstage?”
“Really? From backstage? With you?”
“Sure. I’ll get passes for you and any of your teammates who might want to come.” A stab of disappointment lanced through her when the hotel came into view. Too soon.
Dom pulled into a parking spot facing the ocean. “That would be great. I told you I’ve never seen them perform live, right?”
She caught movement out of the corner of her eye. Zander and Jayne walking toward the beach. Then Brendan and Landry racing after them. “Speaking of the band…”
“Late night swim?”
“I have no idea, but we’re short one member, so I should probably go and find out why.”
“So we’re saying good night here?”
She nodded. “I’m really glad you surprised me. I had a great time tonight.”
“Me too.” He raised their joined hands to his lips. “I’ll see you on Thursday?”
“I’ll drop off the passes to your apartment before I head to the arena. If you’re at all interested in watching sound check, then you can come in with me.”
He drew her close. His mouth flicked up in a teasing smile. “You’d be surprised at what I’m interested in.”
She let her fingers trail over his arms, tracing the cords of muscle. When they reached his neck, she grazed her nails against his skin and pulled him down to kiss her. His teeth scraped her bottom lip, then he soothed the spot with his tongue. Her stomach flip-flopped and her bones melted. “You’re really good at that.”
He smiled against her mouth. “You taste better than any of the stuff we had tonight.”
Her gaze landed on her band. Responsibility put a damper on arousal. “I should let you get back to your hotel before it gets too late.”
Dom kept his hand cradled at the back of her head. “Another few minutes won’t matter.” He pulled her into one more head-spinning kiss, and his other hand traced the scalloped neckline of her dress. Hot fingertips brushed her skin. Wanting to be closer, she shifted and banged her knee on the gearshift. She cursed the confined space.
Dom lifted his head. “You okay?”
Laughing, she rubbed the spot. “I guess that’s my cue to leave.”
Moments later, he was gone.
Irisa walked over the sand. Warm wind whipped her dress against her legs. Brendan and Landry splashed through ankle-deep water, tossing a football to each other under the hotel’s floodlights.
Zander looked up from his spot next to Jayne on the sand. “How’s Dom?”
“Fine. Where’s Luke?”
“In his room. He didn’t want to come.”
She chatted for a few more minutes, then left to check on their singer. She’d knocked twice and finally decided he’d either gone to sleep early or didn’t hear her when his door opened. His clothes were rumpled and his dark hair disheveled. “Hey.”
“You okay?” She checked for signs of sickness or sunburn.
“I’m fine. I figured I’d catch up on my social media.”
Uh-oh. “Good social media or bad social media?”
He smirked. “Don’t worry. I haven’t written a word.”
“Why don’t you come outside and join us? It’s a nice night and better than sitting in here.”
“No thanks.”
“Please. It would be nice to get a few candid shots of you guys having fun together for your fan page. So what do you say, think you can outshine Landry or Brendan with throwing a football?”
He crossed his arms over his chest, then laughed. “I know you. You’re just going to stand here until you win. So I give in. Let’s go.”
“Great.” She waited while he grabbed his room keycard.
CHAPTER TEN
Backstage during the concert, people were running around everywhere. Organized chaos. Dom just tried to stay out of their way. He, Slade, Liam, and Adam sat in chairs designated for the performance and watched the show come together like a well-oiled machine.
The warmup band trooped off the stage. Irisa strode by him and stopped a member of the crew. From what he’d observed since he’d arrived, she was a champ at solving problems and making sure the band’s needs and preferences were met. But she looked flustered. “The merch boxes were labeled and in the designated area. Now they’re gone.”
“We’ll find them.”
“We better. I need my guys to stay calm.” She reached into her pocket. He recognized the roll of antacids that had been on her desk in the hotel. She’d eaten one during sound check. She shouldn’t be popping anther one now.
She turned away from one crew member and issued instructions to another, then disappeared down a hallway. Dom glanced at his phone. Five minutes to go until The Fury were supposed to start.
Liam slapped him on the back. “This is great. I’m glad you brought us.”
The hum of voices around them grew louder. The Fury walked toward the stage. Zander caught Dom’s gaze and came over. “Glad you could make it.”
“Break a leg out there, man.”
A quick smile. “You know, I actually did that once. See you after the show.” He followed the rest of the band onto the stage, and even with lights turned down, the crowd went wild.
Irisa slipped into the open seat next to Dom. The temptation to touch her was too great. He immediately slid his arm around her. Tight muscles greeted his fingers. He kneaded the back of her neck. “You okay?”
“Sure.” She leaned into his hand. Her eyes closed for a moment, reminding him of her expression when he’d stroked her skin in her hotel room.
They’d spoken on the phone every night since he’d left her in San Diego. He’d call her after his old man called to chew him out over his game performance. Talking to her calmed down the fire in his blood. She had no idea what she did for him, but he wanted to do the same for her.
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