Starring You and Me

by Susan Coventry

  Nikki couldn’t scramble to her feet quick enough, and in a stealth movement, Nate had her immersed up to her neck in the cool water. Her body shivered involuntarily as Nate pulled her toward him and wrapped his muscular arms around her. They stood in five feet of water so Nate’s chest was well above the water line. Nikki traced a wet fingertip down the middle of his pecs to his belly button.

  “I would have preferred to immerse myself slowly,” she scolded half-heartedly.

  “Fast can be good too,” he countered, backing them up to the edge of the pool.

  Nikki couldn’t argue with that as he lifted her arms above her head and yanked her top off. She forgot all about the threat of nosy neighbors as Nate dipped his head down to ravage her bare breasts with his mouth. She moaned as he pressed his pelvis against hers, his arousal evident through the thin material of their swimsuits.

  Nate pulled back just long enough to slide Nikki’s bathing suit bottom down her legs. She giggled when he used his toes to collect the bottoms and fling them out of the water. Nate captured her smiling mouth with his, their tongues meeting and tangling. Keeping one arm around his neck for balance, Nikki slid her free hand between their bodies and untied the drawstring on his swim trunks. Suddenly impatient, Nate took over and removed his trunks, flipping them out of the water with a flourish.

  Nikki reveled in the sensory delights she experienced each and every time she was intimate with Nate. Today, with the sun beating down on their overheated bodies, the cool water gently lapping against bare skin, and nature’s sounds as background music, their lovemaking was even more intense. Nikki opened her body to him, and Nate slipped in easily, filling her with his love.

  He stifled her moans with his mouth as they lifted each other up and up until they could go no higher. Nate growled as he convulsed inside her, and she clung to him, legs wrapped securely around his waist.

  “I love you,” they said in unison, their smiles as bright as the California sun.

  Chapter 46

  Tess arrived at ten a.m. the next morning to pick Nikki up for their shopping/spa day. She breezed through the front door, calling out, “Is everybody decent?”

  “In here,” Nate replied from the kitchen, where he and Nikki had been engaged in some heavy-duty goodbye kisses.

  Tess shoved Nate out of the way and gave Nikki an enthusiastic hug. “Welcome to California! We’re going to have so much fun today.”

  Nikki had mixed feelings; she was excited and nervous at the same time. Tonight would be her first official public appearance with Nate, and she wanted to make a good impression. If only Julie were there to help calm her nerves.

  “Hold up ladies. Before you go…” Nate reached into his back pocket and extracted his wallet. He pulled out a credit card and handed it to Tess. “Anything she wants, no limit.”

  Flabbergasted, Nikki’s mouth fell open. She quickly regained her composure and said, “That’s not necessary. I can pay my own way.”

  Nate frowned at her and turned to Tess. “Can you give us a minute?”

  Tess didn’t hesitate; she turned and left the room, heels tapping loudly on the tile floor.

  “Nik, please let me do this.”

  Nikki’s hands were on her hips, her mouth set in a straight line. “I appreciate the gesture, but I make money too, you know. I can afford to pay for myself.”

  Nate swept his hands through his thick locks in an exasperated motion. “I know you have money, and I get that you’re an independent woman. I’m not trying to take that away from you. How else can I explain this?” His eyes roamed the kitchen as if it would provide the answer.

  “I understand that money is no object for you, Nate, but I don’t want to feel like a kept woman. I’m sure some women would be thrilled to take advantage of your financial abundance, but I’m not one of them.”

  Nate’s expression was a mix of amusement and frustration. “I would never attempt to make you a kept woman, Nicole, believe me. Can you just set aside your pride for one day and let me, the man who loves you, spoil you a little? Please.”

  Well, when he put it that way, and with the adorable puppy-dog eyes and that pouty mouth and…

  “Ok, fine. I’ll let you pay this time, but not every time, got it?” Nikki attempted to sound stern, but he had softened her as usual, damn it!

  “Got it. Now come here and give me another goodbye kiss.”

  When she stepped into his arms, Nate kissed her like she was going off to war, and he’d still be kissing her, if Tess hadn’t interrupted.

  Tess cleared her throat noisily as she entered the kitchen. “Time’s up, you two. Nicole, we have to get going, or we’ll be late for our first appointment.”

  Their first appointment was at the Ralph Lauren store on none other than Rodeo Drive! Nikki’s excitement rose as they parked in front of the pristine white storefront with the navy-blue awning. Tess had suggested the famous maker because of his classic, elegant designs, and Nikki had readily agreed.

  Since Tess was familiar with the store and the salespeople, Nikki gladly let her take the lead. After Tess described what they were looking for, the saleswoman led them to a fitting room, where she took Nikki’s measurements. At first, Nikki was uncomfortable standing in her bra and underwear with an audience, but after a few minutes, she began to feel at ease. The saleswoman brought in several dresses for her to try on, and after four or five rejects, she found the one. The minute Nikki slipped into the full-length, sleeveless, black and white gown with a high slit up one leg, she felt like a million bucks. Tess clapped her hands like a seal and said, “That’s it! We found it!” and the saleswoman readily agreed.

  Tess handed over Nate’s credit card, and a few minutes later, they were out the door, the dress bag clutched to Nikki’s chest.

  “Next stop, shoes,” Tess said, her eyes lit with excitement.

  When they pulled up to the Christian Louboutin boutique, Nikki’s eyes grew wide. Even she, the queen of Nikes, knew the name Louboutin meant beaucoup bucks.

  “No, Tess, I don’t think we should,” she said, placing a hand on Tessa’s arm as if that would stop her.

  “Why not? You heard the man say no limit.”

  “Yes, but we can probably find a pair of shoes that will look just as good somewhere else, for a lot less money,” Nikki said, ever the voice of reason.

  Tess wouldn’t have it. “You’re wrong, Nicole. Nothing beats Louboutins.”

  Nikki gave her a skeptical look, but Tess wouldn’t budge. “Ok, fine, we’ll go in, but don’t get mad if I come out empty-handed.”

  Tess ignored her as she practically pushed Nikki through the front door. A half hour later, they emerged, swinging their shoe bags, each the proud new owner of a fantastic pair of high heels with the infamous red soles.

  “One more store before lunch,” Tess said.

  “What else do we need?”

  “You need the proper undergarments for the dress so that no lines show. Oh, and you’ll need a clutch, unless you brought one with you.”

  Thank goodness Tess had thought of everything. Nikki hadn’t even considered the accessories. “What would I have done without your help?”

  “I’m sure you would have managed just fine, but I’m glad I could help,” Tess replied, smiling warmly.

  It didn’t take long to find the scraps of fabric that would serve as Nikki’s undergarments. She was shocked at the price tags for such small items, but Tess reminded her how important they were to her overall appearance. They also found a black satin clutch that was so tiny Nikki wondered what on earth would fit inside. Tess assured her that all she needed to carry was a powder compact and a lipstick for touchups. Once again, Nikki balked at the exorbitant price, especially since the bag wasn’t very practical, but Tess got her way… again! By the time they left the Bergdorf Goodman store, Nikki was famished.

  Tess took them to a posh outdoor café, where they sat under an awning at a perfect table for people-watching. The day was warm, but the a
wning kept the sun from beating down on them. Nikki relaxed and sipped her iced tea, enjoying the ambiance of the little café amidst the bustle of downtown Beverly Hills.

  “So, how do you like it here so far?” Tess asked, a glass of wine dangling from her perfectly manicured hand.

  Nikki wasn’t quite sure how to answer. While she had enjoyed their shopping excursion and the beautiful surroundings, she was still a Michigan girl at heart. “I’m having a good time,” she answered, which was a true yet safe response. She didn’t want to offend Tess, who obviously loved Los Angeles.

  “But…” Tess wasn’t easily fooled.

  “But I still love my little house in the woods. What can I say? I’m a Michigander through and through.”

  “No need to apologize, Nicole. I’ll be the first to admit that L.A. is an acquired taste.”

  Just then, the waiter arrived with their order and set their plates down with a flourish. Even the food looked different here. The arrangement of their grilled fish and vegetables looked artistic and appetizing. Nikki was relieved to discover that she wasn’t the only one with a hearty appetite. By the time they were finished, there wasn’t a crumb left on their plates.

  “I would love some dessert, but we’d probably have trouble squeezing into our dresses later,” Tess said with a giggle.

  “Do people even eat dessert around here?” Nikki asked, half-joking, half-serious. So far, she hadn’t seen one overweight person. Everyone looked trim, toned, and tan in their breezy summer clothes.

  Tess giggled louder this time, causing the couple at the neighboring table to shoot them a disapproving glance. “Yes, of course, silly. They just work out doubly hard the next day to burn off the extra calories!”

  When the waiter appeared to clear their dishes, Tess whipped out Nate’s credit card. If the waiter recognized the name on the card, he didn’t acknowledge it.

  Sated and revitalized, they climbed back into Tessa’s black BMW, a familiar sight on the streets of Beverly Hills, and zoomed off to the salon. It was time for hair, nails, and makeup!

  Nikki leaned her head back and had just closed her eyes when her phone pinged with a text from Nate.

  Having fun gorgeous?

  Yes, but I miss you.

  I miss you more. Can’t wait to see you tonight.

  I’m looking forward to it.

  Pick you up at six.

  It’s a date.

  I love you.

  I love you too.

  Chapter 47

  Nikki sat in the hairstylist’s chair and watched with awe as Max worked his magic on her auburn tresses. He had talked her into the latest style that was requested by many famous Hollywood actresses. The result was soft, touchable waves that cascaded over her right shoulder and sophisticated side-swept bangs. Nikki lost track of how many different hair products were used to hold her locks in place, but the end result was fabulous! Max even gave her a travel-size hairspray to tuck into her tiny clutch. In the chair next to hers, Tessa’s strawberry-blonde hair was styled with big, bouncy curls that framed her pretty face. Tessa’s smile said that she was pleased with her results too.

  Next they were ushered to the second level of the salon, where they would have their nails and makeup done. Nikki chose a subtle, pale pink color for her nails, while Tess chose a bold cherry-red polish to match her dress. Despite the obvious differences in their personalities, Nikki felt at ease in Tessa’s company. The more time they spent together, the more Nikki could envision them becoming close friends.

  When they moved on to the makeup chairs, Nikki deferred to Tess once again. “She has beautiful skin, so don’t cover it with too much foundation. I think the overall look should be soft and luminous,” Tess instructed.

  The makeup artist nodded in agreement and set to work using subtle colors and application techniques to enhance Nikki’s eyes, cheekbones, and lips. Tess insisted that Nikki buy the lipstick and shine-proof powder to tuck in her purse, and Nikki felt a twinge of guilt as Nate’s credit card was swiped at the cash register. At least this will be the last expenditure for the day, she thought as the cashier handed her the receipt. Finally, they were headed to Tessa’s condo to get dressed and await the arrival of their dates. Nikki could hardly wait to see Nate in his tuxedo and for him to see her all glammed up.

  Austin arrived first, and Tess asked Nikki to greet him so she could make a grand entrance. Nikki opened the door to a stereotypical-looking California surfer dude, complete with shaggy blonde hair, sun-kissed skin, and a wide, white smile.

  “Hey, I’m Austin, and you must be Nicole,” he said, extending his hand.

  Nikki shook his hand and felt the sheer strength in his firm grip. “It’s very nice to meet you, Austin; Tess will be right out.” Austin was definitely attractive, but Tess had made sure to tout his other attributes as well. She portrayed him as an intelligent, well-educated man who had built a successful career as a professional surfer. After meeting him, Nikki could understand the appeal, but she preferred a different type, as in Mr. Nate Collins.

  On cue, Tess swept into the foyer in a sexy red gown that clung to her curvy body. Even with her four-inch Louboutins, she still looked petite next to Austin. Austin perused his date lovingly before gathering her to his broad chest.

  “You’ll wrinkle my dress,” Tess protested, swatting at him playfully.

  Nikki smiled at the cute couple they made just as the doorbell rang again. Her heart beat double time at the sight of Nate’s silhouette through the frosted glass door.

  Nikki froze, and Tess giggled as she swished in front of her to open the door.

  Nate entered in a classic black tuxedo that was cut to fit his magnificent body to a tee. His golden brown hair was artfully styled, and a waft of his crisp, clean cologne filled the air. He still wore his shades, but now he slowly took them off, inching them down his nose to reveal his intense hazel eyes.

  Am I breathing? Nikki wondered as Nate scanned her body from head to toe and back again. If her toes hadn’t been jammed into the point of her Louboutins, they would surely be curling.

  “Wow,” Nate said, finally breaking the spell. “That’s all I can say. Wow!”

  “I did good, didn’t I?” Tess bragged, looping her arm through Austin’s.

  “Good is too mild a word,” he said, reaching out for Nikki’s hand. “You look fantastic, Nik, absolutely breathtaking.”

  Speaking of breath, Nikki finally let out the one that she had been holding in. “You look pretty fabulous yourself,” she replied, her sparkly eyes meeting his.

  “Oh, I almost forgot.” Nate reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a square black box with a white bow tied around it.

  Nikki went weak in the knees as he handed her the box. “A little something to go with your dress.”

  “Don’t just stand there. Open it!” Tess urged.

  Nikki’s hands shook, but somehow, she managed to remove the ribbon and open the lid. Her eyes widened at the sight of a gorgeous white gold bracelet with a diamond star charm alongside a matching pair of diamond star-shaped earrings.

  Tess leaned over the box and let out a squeal, which caused the men to laugh. In the meantime, Nikki was trying very hard to keep from crying and ruining her makeup.

  “Well, what do you think?” Nate asked somewhat nervously.

  Nikki spoke around the lump in her throat. “I love them!”

  Nate removed the bracelet from the box and clasped it around her wrist. Tess stepped in to swap the earrings that she had loaned Nikki with the new pair. Nikki recalled the conversation they’d had earlier, when she’d realized she didn’t have any jewelry to wear with the dress. Tess had acted like it was no big deal and hastily loaned her some gold hoops, but Nikki had been suspicious. For someone who was meticulous about details, it wasn’t like Tess to forget about jewelry. Nikki gave her a questioning glance, but Tess quickly looked away.

  “Ok, then, let’s step outside and get a few pictures before we leave,” Tess said, h
anding Nikki her clutch and herding them out the door.

  Once outside, Nikki noticed the limousine idling at the curb. The limo driver approached them and graciously offered to take pictures with their cell phones. All of a sudden, Nikki’s nerves kicked in. The big night had finally arrived, and she was officially stepping out as Nate’s girlfriend. Tess had kept her so busy during the day with the shopping and primping that she had almost forgotten to be nervous, but now the butterflies were back in force.

  Nate must have sensed her mood shift because he pulled her close to his side and whispered, “Relax, Nik. I’ve got you.”

  Nikki leaned into his body and let his warmth comfort her as he led them to the limo. Tess and Austin were driving separately in Austin’s sleek, silver Porsche.

  On the ride to the Beverly Hills Country Club, Nikki couldn’t help but compare herself to Cinderella on the way to her first ball with a handsome young prince. She grinned at the thought, which Nate interpreted as a sign that she had calmed down.

  “Feeling better now?”

  “Yes,” she replied, squeezing his hand. “Thank you so much for the jewelry, Nate, it’s beautiful.”

  “Not nearly as beautiful as you,” he said, placing a kiss on the back of her hand.

  “I would hope so after all the primping today. I think every inch of me was buffed, polished, shined, and waxed.”

  Nate raised his eyebrows. “Every inch?”

  “Well, maybe not every inch. I had to draw the line somewhere, and that’s where I drew it!” Her eyes shifted downward, and Nate’s warm laughter filled the limo.

  Chapter 48

  The limo pulled up in front of the exclusive Beverly Hills Country Club a short time later to little fanfare. Nate had assured Nikki that they wouldn’t be swarmed by paparazzi due to the very tight security on the property. The event planner stopped them for a quick photo on the way into the club, but that was all.