LOVE QUAKES: BOXED SET (BOOKS 1-4)

by J. S. Luxor

  Chapter Five – The Dinner

  After breakfast, we head to Macy’s and Donna’s personal shopper. Sabrina Troy treats us like royalty. I select a lovely lavender sheath dress by Herrera that emphasizes my slender curves and then some. Tristan asks me to model the dress. He’s nearly panting when I twirl around in the item.

  “I love the way this dress fits me.”

  “Me too. I’d like to take you out of it,” he chuckles and orders two additional versions of it, in various shades of blue. I don’t even want to imagine how much it all costs but Ms. Troy looks more than pleased with Tristan’s order.

  “While we’re here, why don’t you choose several pairs of matching designer underwear?” Tristan suggests with sexual excitement building in his burning green eyes.

  “I’ll do that and I’ll keep them at your place so that I don’t have to wear the same underpants two days in a row,” I agree with enthusiasm. I’m actually wearing my panties from yesterday as we speak. Yuck.

  “Good, I’ll make room for them in my closet. In fact, you can use the guest room closet for more of your clothes.”

  I give him a girlish giggle, “Whatever turns you on, Tristan.” He gives me a panty-dropping look.

  While I’m changing back into my grubby clothing, Tristan continues shopping for me and has it all set for delivery at his place in a few hours.

  “Tristan, you don’t have to buy all these clothes for me,” I protest as we leave the store.

  “I want to do this for you, Joanna. I like seeing you in the kind of clothes that emphasize your beautiful body. The clothes you own are all student casual. Besides, you’re an adult now, with a real job.”

  “Oh, that’s right. I also need to start packing for New York City today,” I blurt out before I see the scowl on Tristan’s face.

  His eyes narrow and he stares at me, “Have you sent a text to Ashley yet about being your roommate there?”

  “No, since I was hoping we’d see her tonight. Then, I can talk with her in person,” I confess. I’m hoping if I delay asking Ashley for long enough, she’ll have to turn me down on the grounds that it’s too short of a notice.

  “Sure,” he says but his mood has shifted into a more neutral state.

  “The idea of taking Ashley along makes me feel like a child, Tristan. Considering what happened with Donna this morning, I don’t want to argue about it just now, though.”

  “OK, we won’t argue. I have another idea.” My reply seems to mollify Tristan, at the moment. He texts someone on his IPhone. I shake my head in confusion.

  “I’m going to take you to Bertrand’s for lunch. Typically, they don’t open until 5pm but this weekend is a special anniversary for them.” Tristan announces as we head toward his Porsche.

  “Good. At last, I get my reward for the Power Bars,” I pronounce with sarcasm. He gives me an endearing smile in return.

  We drive toward the restaurant and I hum quietly as we listen to Animal by Neon Trees on the car stereo. Tristan pulls the Porsche into the valet parking area.

  “Here we go again, I kinda wanna be more than friends,” I sing along as Tristan squeezes my thigh and nods his head in agreement.

  The solid looking building that Bertrand’s occupies is a mid-20th century design. We arrive a bit early for lunch and head to the lounge for cocktails. I order a drink that I’ve heard is good called The Marie Antoinette while Tristan opts for a glass of their best Rothschild, a 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon.

  I try to impress Tristan with what I’ve read about this place on Yelp.“ My cocktail has a Granny Smith apple tang to it,” I comment and scrunch my nose.

  “The Marie Antoinette is one of their best drinks. Supposedly, the bourbon’s quite toasty but I never drink bourbon myself,” Tristan adds with relish.

  “Sure you don’t want a taste?” I tempt but he shakes his head.

  I let the atmosphere and alcohol set the mood for our date. My mind starts to wander to last evening. I think of something fleshy that I enjoy tasting. I suppose the word smooth and pliable would be more appropriate. I smile at Tristan with a naughty look on my face. He quirks his eyebrows at me with understanding.

  Soon, we’re seated at a quiet corner table that has an outstanding view of San Diego’s cityscape and the distant ocean. We order the crab cakes for starters, with sea bass and salmon for entrees. The servers are friendly and professional. We toast when our drinks are topped up.

  “To a very long relationship,” Tristan suggests. I blush as I think of the BJ I gave him last night.

  “Very long, Tristan. You’ so romantic. This restaurant is amazing.”

  “Just like you, Joanna, amazing.”

  “I’m feeling optimistic about our relationship,” I add and clink my glass to his. “Thanks for the shopping trip.”

  “Thanks for the unexpected treats last night and this morning in the shower. I can’t wait to complete your training,” Tristan oozes with eyes filled with desire.

  We’re interrupted when the fish arrives, it’s cooked to perfection. The crab cakes taste fresh and delicate. They’re better than anything I’ve had elsewhere. We eat in silence. We’re both feeling the buzz from our drinks.

  “So, you need to pack for your conference today,” Tristan observes with good humor. “It’s a good thing we just bought you some clothes.”

  “Now I’m allowed to go to NYC, even though Ashley hasn’t agreed to accompany me?”

  Tristan nods his head in agreement. My sexual favors must have won him over. “I’ve decided to hire a security man for you, Joanna. His name is Tom Hawk and he’s going to shadow you throughout the conference.”

  “That’s so unnecessary but, if it makes you feel better, fine.” I shake my head with wonder at my boyfriend. Do millionaires really have to live with this much paranoia?

  The servers clear away our platters and leave us in peace to enjoy our privacy. We’ll work off the calories later this evening at Tristan’s place.

  Tristan takes my hand in his across the table. “Happy one month anniversary, Joanna!” he wishes me with gusto. My name slips through his lips like a prayer.

  I squeeze his hand gently. “This is the best meal of my life, Tristan!”

  “You’ll make this day even more memorable if you agree to let me give you an orgasm, tonight,” Tristan proclaims with his most seductive smirk ever. “I need to return your favors.”

  I pause and stare at Tristan with a shocked look on my face. “What? But, you’re not ready for that yet, are you?”

  “I’m not ready to have full-blown sex with you but I can give you pleasure with this,” he indicates while beaming and holding his right hand up and wiggling it, for my inspection. “Do you object?”

  My gut clenches with need. I can’t help the sigh of desire that escapes from my mouth. “Not at all.”

  He’s delighted with my eager response. “In the meantime, let’s get you packed and ready for your trip. I also want to have you meet Mr. Hawk,” Tristan directs.

  “I was hoping you could give me a massage this afternoon,” I push. I’m feeling just a bit bold by now. It must be the drink.

  Tristan looks at me with shock and awe then he actually chortles. “All in good time, Joanna.”

  He drives me to my condo to get my luggage, shoes and other items for the trip. Then we head to his condo. The packages from our earlier shopping trip have already arrived. I select some additional clothes for the trip from our shopping trip and finish preparing before the late afternoon arrives.

  At 4pm, Tom Hawk arrives. He’s attractive, in a controlled sort of way. I’d guess he’s mid-twenties with a burly yet very toned physique, light brown eyes, and a buzz cut. He’s all business with his “Yes, sir. No ma’am” replies. He certainly looks like he could take care of me and three other Joanna clones. I give him the details about my hotel and other information about the conference. I’d guess Mr. Hawk will be flying with me and Janelle but have no idea if he’ll also stay at our hote
l. Perhaps it’s best if I don’t know the details.

  Then, it’s time to face dinner this evening. I pop a tranquilizer before getting dressed.

  “What do you think of my dress when I combine them with these heels?” I model the Jimmy Choo stilettos that I’m intending to wear. Tristan whistles his approval.

  “They’ll be impressed with the entire look, baby. You’re adorable with your innocent little face and lovely coloring.”

  Tristan drives us to his parents’ home himself. It sits on a bluff above the ocean and has a large widow’s walk on the roof as well as an abundance of windows and light. The arched roof and clerestory windows just beneath are designed to take full advantage of the waterfront views. The interior space contains six bedrooms and is well over 7,000 square feet. Their home must be worth millions. I take his hand and hold tight as we approach the front door. He kisses me with affection then knocks.

  Donna Grant answers the door herself. “Tristan, Joanna, welcome,” she states in a cool but formal manner. I shake her hand and practically bow as our eyes meet again. Hers are cautious and controlled. She seems restrained, at best.

  “That’s a lovely dress, Joanna,” she utters after a pause. Tristan beams since it’s one he just chose for me. At least my appearance doesn’t jar her. She calls her husband to the reception room as we enter. “Derrick, come over here and meet Tristan’s girlfriend, Joanna Prime.”

  He greets me with a kind nod and friendly smile that makes his eyes shine. That’s a relief. Donna and Derrick carry middle-age quite well. Their clothing is casual but well-tailored and made of expensive fabric. Both look fit and healthy. Derrick asks about my job and I launch into a brief description of my new role at work as well as a few tidbits about my upcoming conference in NYC. He seems interested. I smile in relief. At least one of Tristan’s parents isn’t threatened by me.

  As soon as we walk into the family room, Tristan’s young cousin Mona comes running into the foyer to meet me. She’s petite with short dark hair and very spritely. I like her immediately.

  “Hi, Joanna. I’ve heard so much about you from Tristan,” she admits with a friendly smile. “Since you’re about my age and size, we can go shopping together. Maybe even exchange dresses,” she adds once she sizes up my outfit.

  “Sounds fine to me, as long I can take some time from work and from Tristan.” I agree with an enthusiastic look. “Can’t wait to hear all about your time at Bryn Mawr.”

  That’s all Mona needs to hear before she goes into detail about her school and a few of the highlights from her year on the east coast. I’m going to enjoy her company. She’s a ball of energy and very open. Ashley and Eddie arrive a few minutes after we do. Eddie introduces Ashley as my roommate and his date for the evening. She fits in with the family, immediately. Donna warms to her easily. Then Ashley turns to me.

  “Hey, Joanna,” Ashley blurts out and runs to me for a hug. “New dress?” I tell her about our shopping trip today. Donna and Mona listen carefully. Donna looks crestfallen but Mona looks thrilled when I explain how Macy’s personal shopper helped me.

  Cocktails are served next. Derrick pulls Tristan and Eddie aside to talk sports. Donna gives some sort of signal to Mona who disappears into the kitchen. Then she pulls me aside. My stomach drops to the basement. At least Donna’s taking the initiative about getting to the reason behind her hostile attitude.

  “I’m sorry if I’ve been a bit rude to you, Joanna. It’s just that I’ve seen and heard things about you that make me a bit cautious,” she begins and looks into my eyes as if searching for some clue to my character. “It’s obvious that Tristan’s fallen for you and he’s got such impeccable taste. I’ve probably misjudged you.”

  “Who have you have talking with about me?” I ask, but know the answer already.

  “She’s a family friend who’s known us for many years. Her name is Kristen Powers and she dated both Eddie and then Tristan in high school. She was so helpful to me during Tristan’s recent injury.”

  “What did this Kristen tell you about me?” I ask with rage building steadily in my body. “I hardly know her, Mrs. Grant.”

  “I’m not sure that I should be the bearer of bad news,” Donna states with restraint.

  “Well, if it’s my reputation that’s being slandered, then I need know.”

  “That’s true, you have a right to know what’s been said. Basically, that you’re manipulating and using Tristan because of his money. That you’ve got other boyfriends you’re seeing as well and that you’re responsible for his injuries in the first place.”

  I shake my head in disbelief. “All of what Kristen’s told you is wrong. I care only for Tristan. Also, I had nothing to do with his injuries. I was already out of the elevator when he fell. I’d love to hear her story. Did Kristen show you pictures of me kissing two other men?”

  “Yes,” she admits with a disgusted look on her face. “Joanna, you must see how vulnerable Tristan is right now. I don’t know if he’s told you about his background but he was abducted and tortured as a young child and carries deep psychological scars from his preschool years. He’s been in therapy about it for years.”

  “First, Tristan’s told me about his past already. Second, those pictures simply showed me kissing two old friends goodbye, after they worked their tails off helping me move. Is that so wrong?”

  “No, of course not. It’s just the way they were presented to me, I guess. I’m very protective of Tristan. He can’t be hurt any more than he’s already been. It would ruin him, Joanna.”

  “Rest assured. I’ve no intention of manipulating or hurting Tristan. If you want the truth, I think I’m already in love with him. We have a very close and strong bond. Further, my guy friends don’t hold a candle to Tristan and I’ve known them for years.”

  “It’s such a relief to hear your side of the story, Joanna. I don’t know why Kristen would tell me such things about you. Maybe she’s just as protective of Tristan as I am,” Donna huffs with relief. “I’m so pleased that we talked. You look and seem like such a solid young woman. If Tristan loves you, Kristen must have it all wrong.”

  “Donna, I’m really happy that you confronted me with your doubts. I want to assure you that I really care about Tristan. I think Kristen Powers has some ulterior motives behind what she’s said about me but I’m not the one who should discuss those issues with you. That’s up to him.”

  Donna looks shocked at my description of Kristen’s motives. “Maybe she’s still hoping he’ll date her again. I need to speak with Tristan about that then. But first, let me apologize to you for my rude behavior, Joanna. I must seem like such an overbearing mother. I’m so sorry if I’ve misjudged you,” she says with sincerity and kindness. Then she hugs me. Donna’s suspicions drop away and what takes their place is the natural love and warmth she holds toward her family and their friends.

  At that very moment, Tristan looks over at us. He’s so pleased to see our embrace and I give him a thumbs up while Donna holds me close. My feeling of relief is immense. Dinner may go well after all. My appetite’s returned. Tristan comes to me then and takes my hand as we all head toward the dining room for a delicious meal and good conversation.

  Chapter Six – After Dinner

  The catered Italian dinner put everyone at ease and our conversation flowed. Mona showed off a bit with her east coast accent. Ashley shared more tidbits about her vacation and Eddie hung on her every word. I told stories about TTP’s latest therapy trends while Tristan added a bit about his charity work and business plans. Everything flowed, including the wine, until Kristen showed up unexpectedly.

  We were just leaving the dining room and sipping our aperitifs when the unexpected guest from hell made an appearance. Apparently, one of the caterers let her into the Grant’s home. No one needed to tell me that Kristen was in the room because I knew it instinctively. Also, Tristan tightened up like a rod when she walked in.

  Kristen Powers entered the family gathering with
heels clicking and the scent of lavender perfume permeating the air. It nauseated me. Her short well-cut red hair, tanned skin and tight white shift gave the impression of a successful and well-polished young socialite. The look on her thin face gave her away though. It appeared hard, bitter and hostile.

  “I’m so sorry, Donna and Derrick. I had no idea that your family was gathering tonight,” she sputtered as soon as she noticed us. Her eyes traveled quickly from Donna’s frown to Tristan’s angry squint. They settled on my enraged face. She began to back out of the room almost immediately.

  The first person to speak was Tristan. “You’ve been warned, Kristen,” he nearly shouted. His arm quickly encircled my shoulder in a protective way.

  “We need to talk, Kristen, privately,” Donna said while putting her wine glass down on the end table. Tristan’s mom certainly isn’t subtle.