Harper's Fate

by F. C. Clark

  ‘I had never heard of this place, but Kiki had. Speaking of my friends and sister, have you introduced yourself?’ Why does he make my blood boil and my groin ache?

  ‘Yes, of course!’ He glares at me. I sense he’s pissed off at my standoffish attitude.

  ‘You didn’t have to send Max to drive us – I’m capable of organising a night out.’

  ‘As ever, you have issues with the offer of transportation. I would rather know you arrived safely. Why is that a problem for you?’

  My jaw hits the floor. Once again he has put me in my place.

  ‘It’s not the offer, Luke, it’s your assumption that I need your help – which I don’t.’

  He moves nearer, closing the void between us. His lips almost brush against my ear, as it’s loud in the club.

  ‘Kate, I never assume anything, but if something is offered to you it’s rude not to accept it.’

  With a need to extinguish the fire that has begun inside me, and not being able to use food for diversion, I grab Barney’s arm.

  ‘Barney, this is Luke Sutton, my boss. Boss, this is Barney, my friend and neighbour.’

  I wait, hoping Barney will not let me down. Yes. Instantly he plants a kiss on Luke’s cheek. The look of astonishment on Luke’s face is worth it. Inside I can’t help but laugh. The ripple continues to spread across my face, and is not lost on Luke. His eyes lock with mine, dark and feral.

  I down the remainder of my Margarita.

  ‘I’m here for a reason. I would like to speak to you in private; I have a proposition for you.’ He looks sincere.

  Nevertheless, I don’t buy into that bullshit.

  ‘A job prospect? I’m not sure what else I can offer you.’

  ‘Come with me.’ He extends his hand. My mind remains cautious.

  ‘Please.’

  Luke holds my hand tightly, brushing his fingers against my knuckles. Skin-to-skin contact triggers my body to respond – damn it. He strides through the club, acknowledging various members of staff along the way. I wonder how often he comes here.

  We reach a door with a keypad. What is it with him and technology? Is this another reason that we’re not suited? We enter an office. He guides me to a chair and saunters behind the desk and sits.

  He leans back in his chair, resting one foot on his knee, clasping his hands on his lap, looking incredibly relaxed and far too sexy for my Margarita-confused head. The intoxicating combination of this man and excessive alcohol is not a good mix – he should come with a health warning.

  ‘As I mentioned a moment ago, I have a proposition for you.’

  Note to self: monitor linguistic malfunction.

  ‘I’m not sure what else I can offer.’

  He laughs at my response.

  ‘I think you should allow me to speak, Kate.’ My name lingers on his tongue, as he becomes Mr Serious Sutton.

  I gesture with my hand. Continue. The floor is yours, Mr Shit-hot Sutton.

  His broad chest expands; I sense my response aggravates him.

  ‘Thank you,’ he answers with a disdainful lash to his words. ‘I repeat, I have a proposition for you. There are various charity and work events that I have to attend, most of which are incredibly dull. More importantly, there are three main factors that cause the events to be a pain in my arse.’

  I look at him. Go on, spit it out.

  ‘Firstly, the single women who assume I’m looking for a relationship.’

  I begin to laugh. He must realise how entertaining this is.

  ‘Oh, I can see how traumatic that is for you.’ I continue to laugh. I have no control. Margarita has possessed my body.

  ‘I’m glad you find it amusing. May I continue?’

  ‘Yes.’ I regain my poise – but for how long?

  ‘The second reason is that I have potential business colleagues insisting that I go out on dates with their daughters, granddaughters, friends, daughters, et cetera. This also proves to be problematic – when I decline, they take it personally.’ He looks at me, waiting for a reaction.

  ‘You stated three reasons?’

  He takes a deep breath. ‘Yes… They think I’m gay.’

  I can’t control my laughter, which is heightened by my sidekick, Margarita.

  ‘I’m sure Barney would always help, Luke.’ Who would have thought this conversation would make Mr Cool, Calm and Collected squirm in his chair? Besides, having just encountered Barney’s brazen advances, how could I not offer his services?

  ‘I think you and I both know that will not be necessary. However, I would like to pay you to attend these functions – with me.’

  ‘Well, that’s a new one for my CV: prostitute.’ I look at him. As for tonight, I have no fear. That may not be a good thing. Nonetheless, his request is completely unexpected.

  ‘Kate, I would need to fuck you for that to be true, and I can’t do that.’ Holy shit, he just said fuck me… Is that in the literal sense?

  ‘OK, I’ll rephrase that: how about escort? Speaking of escorts, why don’t you go to an agency? I’m sure you would be inundated with offers – a man like you.’ I try to maintain a sense of calmness, yet my heart beats rapidly against my chest. What does he really want? I’m crumbling – rapidly.

  ‘Yes, a man like me would be inundated, but I don’t trust people easily. Yet I do trust you.’ Luke’s face remains stern. He’s not playing games, just being honest.

  ‘Wow, I guess that’s something.’ I’m contemptuous.

  ‘It’s business, Kate, not personal.’ Stern and rude – well, that I know is part of his inherent attitude.

  ‘Not personal? I think someone offering to pay me to attend a dull evening – your words, not mine – is personal.’

  He takes a breath and runs his hand across his stern jaw, realising his argument is questionable.

  ‘OK, I stand corrected – it is personal.’ I’m guessing he very rarely retracts his statements, let alone corrects them.

  ‘Maybe you should get a girlfriend.’ Please God, let him say no!

  ‘I don’t have time to date.’

  I take a deep breath, thanking my lucky stars. ‘So what does that make me? An easy target? She’s here, so that’ll do?’

  ‘No. It’s an opportunity, with the benefit of extra money.’

  ‘Extra money! Luke, can you actually hear what you’re saying? OK, so let me make sure I have this clear in my head.’

  He nods.

  ‘You want me to attend various functions that you find traumatic on many levels, for money, but I’m not classed as a prostitute, as you don’t want to fuck me. We agreed “escort” is a better description … all because you trust me.’ I stare at him; my face is full of conviction. No number of Margaritas will alter my stance this evening.

  ‘I think that sums up the proposition, and for the record I said I can’t fuck you, not that I wouldn’t.’ Oh, my God. How dare he think that I would let him fuck me?

  He uncrosses his legs and leans on his desk, altering his appearance to businessman Sutton.

  ‘This is how I see it, Mr Luke Sutton. As you’re my friend and I’m always there for my friends, I will attend these functions with you – but not for money. You might be able to buy most things, but I’m not for sale. It looks like you need my time more than I will ever want your money.’ Go Kate, go Kate – pompoms at the ready.

  ‘I would never try to buy you. I am a man of moral principles.’

  ‘Morals? Luke, you just offered to pay me to attend dull evenings; I think your moral compass is fucked.’

  ‘Fucked.’ He begins to laugh, not with humour but in confusion.

  ‘Oh, and one last thing, Luke – I wouldn’t let you fuck me anyway.’ Well, obviously that has to be the lie of the century, and for that reason I will go to hell.

  He relaxes
against the chair, allowing his best fuckable grin to expand across his delicious mouth.

  ‘Kate, Kate, Kate, are you challenging me?’

  Holy shit. Now I’m worried. The alcohol I consumed is losing its effect and Kate the mouse is slowly making an entrance. I tell myself to remain powerful. I need some serious industrial strength, right here, right now.

  ‘No, I’m not a competitive person.’ I take a deep breath.

  He stands up from his chair and places his hands in his pockets.

  I also stand.

  He moves towards me, closing the space between us. Oh no, this is not good. He places his hand under my chin, raising my head. Dark eyes sink into mine, sending my body into a frenzy of sexual desire. My nipples press against my dress, and droplets of moisture almost slide from my sex. Stop, Kate. Think! Oh fuck, I don’t know what to think other than ‘lie me across the desk’.

  He turns me and slips his strong arm around my waist.

  ‘Are you sure that was not a challenge?’

  I nod. Obviously, I can’t speak. This has gone horribly wrong. I want to appear strong. His hand reaches the side of my neck, moving my hair, allowing his rough cheek access to my skin. His lips are soft. I have no time to think as he pulls me closer to his chest and presses his erection against my arse. My breathing quickens and my legs weaken. His soft lips skim my neck, moving to my ear; unexpectedly, he nips at my earlobe. I gasp. My face burns with shock and hunger – thank God I’m not facing him.

  ‘I love a challenge, Kate.’ He whispers in my ear. The sound of my name sparks a current that I can’t control – and don’t want to. I push my arse further into him. The steel rod of his arousal fuels my clit to scream for attention from him. A sudden thought enters my head.

  ‘I’m not wearing any knickers.’ Did I say that aloud? No… no.

  His breath returns to my ear. ‘You’ve saved me a job.’ I know my words amused him; his tone softens and his mouth parts slightly.

  Even if I could move, this is where I want to be. I’m lost in the moment. Why am I so weakened by him? Do I have the same impact on him?

  The moment comes to an abrupt halt when there is a loud bang on the door. As much as I want this to happen, buckling under his sexual control was not part of my plan.

  ‘Yes?’ A pissed-off Luke bellows at the closed door.

  His arm continues to hold me close, so close that I can feel the rise and fall of his chest and his erection, which remains hard against me.

  ‘Excuse me, but we have an incident that I need to discuss with you.’ A shaky voice from the other side of the door responds.

  ‘Wait!’ A single harsh reply.

  Luke releases his firm grip from my waist and moves away slightly, turning me to face him. He places a hand tenderly at the side of my face, skimming my cheek with his thumb.

  ‘Are you OK?’ A sensitive man stands in front me. Jeez. He confuses me with his multiple facets – I have some serious work ahead of me.

  I nod. Moments ago, the air between us was electric. Driven by desire, he wanted to fuck me: how the hell does he think I am? Just peachy.

  The knocking at the door restarts.

  ‘For fuck’s sake, I’m coming.’ Although Luke’s response is fuelled with sexual angst and frustration, his lips curl with amusement.

  I can’t help but laugh. ‘How very apt.’ At last I begin to relax.

  ‘I’m pleased I amuse you.’ His eyes remain fixed on mine. I’m too weak to move. ‘A word of advice: next time you are challenged, Kate Harper, don’t disclose your lack of underwear.’

  Oh, fuck. I turn my burning face away from his. I’m beginning to understand his life, and everyone who enters it signs up to a Luke Sutton game of power and control.

  He places his hand under my chin, lifting my face, allowing our dark eyes to meet.

  ‘Until the next challenge, Kate,’ he smiles at me. There is a shared understanding of unfinished business. ‘I think I should return you to your guests, as I have some scolding to do.’

  We re-enter the VIP area. Everyone seems oblivious that I have returned. Luke’s grasp remains. I try to release his clasp, but his vice-like grip prevents me. I look up and catch him watching me. Eventually he releases my hand, moving his touch to the small of my back. He leans close to my ear.

  ‘If you need anything, just ask a member of staff; they know who you are.’

  They know who I am? Why would they know who I am? This evening is highly confusing – more importantly, this man confuses me.

  Luke uses his index finger to trace a line from my ear to the back of my neck. My body shudders, reacting to his touch, leaving me with an intense need for more. Please stop, I’m already a quivering mess. I look away. Was his challenge to tease me? He places his hand under my chin, turning me to face him.

  ‘This has to be the first time I’ve enjoyed being here.’ He gives the smile that rattles me.

  ‘Stay out of trouble. Remember, if you need anything, you have Max’s number.’ Stern Luke has returned.

  ‘Why are you so worried about my safety? I’m a big girl and have managed quite well so far.’ I lean closer towards him. ‘Besides, the only trouble I’ve got into lately, you’ve been involved in. Should I stay away from you… boss?’ I smile at my own humour.

  His expression becomes stern. ‘Don’t push me, Kate.’

  9

  ‘For Christ’s sake – I’m coming!’ I shout, dashing down the stairs towards the front door, a towel wrapped around my body and another tied around my hair. As usual, my comatose sister can’t possibly hear someone knocking at the bloody door, even though I could hear it with the shower running…

  I open the door, feeling slightly harassed and naked.

  ‘Good morning, Kate.’ His eyes scan me, looking for an area to rest, undoubtedly pleased by the view. ‘Do you normally answer your door dressed in such an outfit?’ Humour from the hot guy at the door.

  ‘No, I don’t, and good morning to you too, Luke.’

  Great. He turns up looking as though he models biker clothing and I look… well, no description needed.

  ‘May I come in?’

  ‘Er… yeah.’ I stand aside. What does he want now? Hopefully he doesn’t have another proposal – and I’m definitely not up for a challenge.

  ‘Would you like a coffee?’

  ‘Yes, I would – thank you.’

  ‘Follow me.’ I lead the way to the kitchen.

  Finally I can hear movements from Harry, I turn and walk back to the stairs.

  ‘Harry, can you throw down my robe and a hairbrush?’ I shout my request to my sleepy sister.

  Moments later my very short black silk robe sits on the bottom step. Matchmaker Harry knows that I need my white full-length fluffy robe. This small piece of black cloth barely covers my dignity.

  ‘Thanks, Harry.’ I shout in appreciation. I slip my arms into the robe and frantically brush my unruly hair.

  Luke surveys Harry’s choice of robe.

  ‘Interesting, to be in your house.’

  ‘I guess… How do you take your coffee?’

  ‘Surprise me.’ He rubs his thumb along his lower lip.

  Already I’m under his spell. Not only are my cheeks glowing, but my nipples are hardening. I’m sure it’s evident through my robe. Plan of action: pour the coffee, fold my arms, secure all protruding body parts.

  We sit opposite each other. The tension from last night is still raw – we have unfinished business.

  ‘I assume this is not a passing visit. You’re far too busy to make idle chit-chat on a Saturday morning.’

  ‘Do you think so little of me, Kate? Information for you – I often go for a bike ride on a Saturday morning; it clears my head.’

  Whatever.

  ‘I think very highly of you, but by your own ad
mission you’re a busy man, and only do things you want to do… So, unless you think my coffee is the best, I’m sure you have an ulterior motive for turning up on my doorstep dressed from head to toe in leather.’ The pompoms are going mad, and my body feels compelled to celebrate by turning a cartwheel – not in this robe!

  He leans back against the chair in his usual predatory pose. Why does this position look so bloody sexy? Sadly, I’m sure he is fully aware of what he is doing to me.

  ‘Fair enough. I am here for a reason. However, your coffee is good, Kate.’ He responds with light-hearted humour.

  ‘Really, Luke?’ I answer sarcastically.

  ‘Very well. I have thought over the proposition from last night. I would like to change the proposal slightly – if I may?’

  I’m amazed he wants to continue. I thought last night was a one-time deal that we never resolved.

  ‘No money, Luke.’

  ‘Noted.’

  ‘Good – I won’t change my mind.’ I drink some coffee.

  ‘I have thought about what you said – as a friend, you would attend these functions with me, correct?’

  ‘Correct.’ Where’s he going with this?

  ‘There is a small issue that needs addressing. The events in question require a certain type of attire – a dress code. Quite often, full-length evening wear is the most appropriate, and, correct me if I’m wrong, but I’m sure you don’t have an abundance of full-length evening dresses in your wardrobe.’

  ‘I don’t.’

  ‘Therefore, I will provide suitable clothing.’

  ‘You’ll be paying for the dresses? That sounds like a monetary exchange to me.’

  ‘No, I don’t think that qualifies as an exchange of money, I would refer to it as providing my friend with the correct dress code when needed. I would also like to think that you would not incur any financial burden.’

  ‘Luke, it doesn’t matter how you dress it up, there’s still money involved. I’m not stupid.’ I scowl, hostile towards the leather-clad sex god sitting at my kitchen table.

  ‘Kate, my opinion of you is quite the opposite. I don’t want to offend you, but it’s hard for me to allow people to help in exchange for nothing. Yes, my family are wealthy, and yes, I had money left to me, but nothing compared to what I have today. So you must understand that the world I deal with very rarely does anything out of kindness.’