by Sandy Loyd
Later, after an evening Judith swore she’d never forget, they stood on her front porch.
“This is habit forming,” Dev whispered. Just before his lips found hers, he added, “I could kiss you all night.”
Familiar sensations coursed through her and she opened herself more. She loved kissing him. When his hands slid around her back and started kneading, she luxuriated in the feel until his thumbs caressed the undersides of her breasts. The unexpected bursts of pleasure shocked her…then petrified her into reality. She wasn’t ready to make love with him. Not yet. And judging by the hardness of his obvious erection, he was more than ready.
She broke the kiss and cleared her throat.
“I guess that means you’re not going to invite me in.”
“Not tonight,” she said softly, shaking her head, as heat rushed up her face. She closed her eyes. She opened them to his intent gaze focused directly on her.
“Okay, beautiful. I can wait.” Dev gave her a quick peck on the cheek and pushed her inside. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow at seven. Dress for dinner. I’m bringing out the big guns and romancing you.”
Judith shut the door and leaned against it, wishing she’d had the guts to go further. Why oh why did she have to be so inexperienced? She headed for her bedroom with one thought. She’d have to work on bravery.
Chapter 10
Judith looked in the mirror for one final check just as the buzzer sounded the next evening. Dressed in every woman’s secret weapon, her little black dress, she was satisfied with the results and started down the hallway to answer Dev’s summons.
She laughed as she opened the door. “You’re early.”
Dev stood staring. His smile died, transformed into an open mouth, before he closed it.
Then, she saw an appreciative, smoldering gaze sweep over her, sending a thrill of exhilaration through her.
“Turn around,” he said, sounding strained.
She pivoted slowly, beaming. “Well, do I pass?”
He swallowed hard, then grabbed her hands, and pulled her closer.
“If your score was any higher I’d need resuscitation. Judith, you are absolutely breathtaking.”
“You aren’t so bad yourself, Mr. McAllister.” Judith prayed he couldn’t tell how fast her heart raced. Another gurgle of laughter escaped as she gave him a thorough examination.
Dev’s starched white shirt with stylish tie complemented the navy suit that fit him to perfection. The deep color made his eyes appear bluer. He looked dashing and distinguished, like he’d stepped off the cover of GQ magazine.
“You do clean up rather nicely,” she said. “Would you like a drink before we go?”
“No. We shouldn’t linger.” His voice was teasing, but something in his expression and tone told her he wasn’t joking. “If we don’t leave now, we’ll never make it out.” He led her to the door. “Do you need a jacket?”
She grabbed a black matching wrap. Dev took it from her and placed it over her shoulders. Keeping his warm hands there, he turned her. Drew her closer.
“I shouldn’t do this, but I can’t resist just one kiss,” he whispered as his soft lips hovered above hers. He moved his head back and forth and grazed, not quite connecting, as intense sensations shot through her. His almost kisses had her on edge, anticipating more. Unfortunately, the more was too fleeting. His full lips made the connection for only a moment before he broke it. Disappointment flared instantly when he stepped back.
“Let’s go while we still can,” he said in a strangled voice, and steered her out the door.
“Promises, promises,” Judith teased, enjoying his obvious distress. Tonight she felt more in control, more sure of herself, bolder. Tonight, she didn’t want to be the inexperienced virgin. Tonight, she decided to flex her femininity.
~
Dev waited for her to lock the door and disregarded her taunt, not sure of his control at the moment. Hell, he was still reeling from the stunning vision of Judith in a sexy black sheath of a dress. Sleeveless and backless, the kind that hugged every curve and accentuated those long, never-ending legs that first attracted him ten years ago. The earthy, sensual scent he got a whiff of every time she moved had the blood pumping through his body and pooling south.
His chest tightened with every step he took, guiding her.
He angled his head for a side glimpse, then sucked in a breath when she smiled and briefly snared his gaze. Emerald earrings dangled at her ears, emphasizing the green in her eyes, which stood out even more due to makeup, artfully applied.
He broke the connection and focused on the ground in front of him. He had to get out of here.
Keep moving.
“Why, Dev, you seem to be in a big hurry,” she said.
Holding his gaze straight ahead took discipline, especially since all he heard was tormenting amusement in her laughter.
He kept walking, gently pushing her along.
“I believe you’re flushed.”
Dev ignored her.
Judith tossed out another throaty laugh. She was definitely enjoying herself at his expense. He continued letting her little jibes pass and urged her forward with his hand on the small of her back.
“What’s the matter?” she goaded. “Are you afraid of me?” She laughed again before adding, “Well, you should be!”
Thankfully, they neared his car. He slowed his steps and thought he was home free until Judith ran her hand up and down his chest.
“Ignoring me, Dev?” she asked, almost purring. Another throaty laugh, this one sexy as hell, rang out, further weakening his resistance. He had to do something to make her realize the consequences and fast. If he didn’t, he wasn’t sure how long he’d be able to withstand her taunts without losing control of the situation. He had no intention of letting that happen.
Dev stopped suddenly and maneuvered Judith up against the Lexus so quickly she never saw it coming. His head lowered, locking lips.
In seconds, her moan filled his ears and he felt her hands grip his arms, telling him she was aroused as he. Using an expert mouth, his tongue prodded, seeking entrance to her closed lips.
She moaned louder, opened her mouth, and gave in to his silent demands. He leaned into her, situating her against the fender to make sure she felt what he couldn’t hide. The scene was so similar to the morning in her living room, but this time Judith didn’t back off. One hand shoved into his hair, while the other wrapped around his neck, drawing him even closer. For a moment Dev couldn’t think. Could only feel. His hands found her breasts and he stroked through the silky material.
When she flinched slightly, the movement registered, enough to pull him out of his erotic haze. Dev pulled back, shaking with need and holding on to his control by a thread.
“Let me assure you,” he growled. “You’re playing with fire. I don’t know why I’m prolonging the inevitable, but for some reason, I get this feeling you’re still not ready. And God only knows why I care, because I am more than ready now. So heed my warning, you are walking a fine line, lady.”
Then he jerked the door open, waiting until Judith was inside before slamming it shut and working his way around to the driver’s side.
~
Subdued, Judith remained silent as he started the car, completely at a loss for words. She felt both elated and worried. Elated because she knew Dev was on the verge of losing control and she was the reason. Worried because she had no clue what to do next.
She couldn’t pretend to be a femme fatale and seduce him.
She did want to go to bed with him, but she didn’t want it to be so easy for him.
That thought brought out a self-deprecating laugh. All she’d ever done with Dev was make it easy.
“What’s so funny?”
“Nothing,” Judith said too quickly, a guilty look spreading across her face.
“You might as well tell me. I need a good laugh about now.”
Watching him, his mannerisms seemed humble, so unlike the arrogant
man she thought she knew.
“Okay,” she said, reaching for honesty. “I was having such fun teasing you. Actually, I felt pretty full of myself and forgot I’m no match for you. At this point, I feel pretty stupid, so I guess you could say I’m laughing at myself.”
Dev slowed and pulled to the curb. After shifting into park, he reached across the seat and cupped her face in his hand, forcing eye contact. He paused.
“That’s the problem…we are well matched. And I still haven’t figured out what I want to do about it. I’m not used to plunging in—no pun intended.” He grinned. “Without knowing what the outcome will be.”
“I thought seduction was always your plan.”
“Maybe.” He shrugged. “Somehow, it’s gotten more complicated.”
“Complicated?”
“Let’s just say my original plans have veered off track. I have no idea which road I’m following now.”
“Really?”
“You sound shocked.”
“No.” She offered a wan smile. “Sorry to be so difficult.”
He grunted. “Like hell, you are.” He shifted the car in gear. “I should’ve planned better once I found out about Maude’s defection. You’re no pushover.”
Her smile stretched. She was warmed by his sincerity as well as by the heat emanating from his eyes. Maybe he felt the same way about her as she felt about him, but needed time to accept it.
“Where are we going?” she asked as her confidence returned.
“Max’s,” he answered, slowing for a red light.
She’d never been to the trendy restaurant. “Is the food good? I heard they have a dance floor and live music. I love to dance. Are you a good dancer?”
“Yes, the food should be good. They have a four-star rating. And I think I can keep up with you on the dance floor. You’ll have to judge for yourself,” he said, chuckling. A moment later he added, “How goes the project? Did you and lover-boy Jack get the lights figured out?”
“Why, Dev, if I didn’t know better, I’d say you were jealous.”
“You wish!” he snorted. The smile on his face told her he was enjoying the exchange as much as she.
~
The valet rushed up to open Judith’s door, once they stopped in front of the restaurant.
Dev handed him a ten-dollar bill, saying, “Take care of her, she’s a little touchy,” then grabbed Judith’s hand, intertwining fingers. Together they walked into Max’s.
The mood inside was festive, despite low lighting. Sounds of music drifted to the outer room where the hostess was busy seating several couples.
“I’ll be with you in just one moment,” she said, giving Dev a nod.
He nodded back and turned to Judith. “We shouldn’t have to wait. I have reservations.”
Judith glanced around. “This is nice. I’m impressed.”
Dev’s gaze followed hers. The décor did speak of an understated elegance. He was glad he brought her here, since he found he liked impressing her.
The hostess returned, and grabbed two menus and a wine list. “This way, Mr. McAllister.”
Dev caught Judith’s raised eyebrows.
He shrugged. “I eat here frequently.”
He started off by ordering a bottle of expensive, aged cabernet once they were seated.
They’d barely ordered their entrées when a voice interrupted.
“Hey, Judith! Mac! Fancy meeting you two here.”
Both looked up simultaneously to see James and a woman.
“Would you mind if we joined you?” he asked, clasping Dev’s shoulder.
“No problem,” Judith said at the same time Dev said, “Yes, this is private.”
“Ladies always have first right of refusal, so you’re out of luck, Mac,” James said laughingly. Indicating his partner, he added, “Stacy, this is Dev McAllister, a good friend, though you wouldn’t know it by his greeting. And Judith Reid, another good friend. This is Stacy Johnson, she’s in advertising.”
Dev stood and nodded in the direction of the empty chairs. “Please have a seat,” he said more graciously than he felt, and shook her offered hand. “Nice to meet you, Stacy.”
“Any friend of James is a friend of mine.” Judith took Stacy’s hand and put up her cheek for James’ kiss.
Dev scowled as Judith quickly lowered her head, obviously trying to hide her smile.
“Please bring two more menus and give us a few more minutes,” he said to the waiter who had stepped back at the new arrivals. Then Dev turned to James. “I’m surprised to see you here. Didn’t you cross this off your list of places to go? As a matter of fact, that’s why I’m here. I was hoping to avoid running into people I know.”
James laughed, clearly unperturbed. “I’m here because I knew you two might be. Face it, Mac. I like being a thorn in your side. It’s my life’s ambition.”
Dev snorted, then sighed and accepted his teasing good-naturedly, sensing Judith was somewhat relieved with the interruption.
“Well, I for one am glad you stopped by,” she chimed in. “It’s nice to have company.”
“What am I? Chopped liver?” Dev asked with a grin. “Am I such poor company you need others to run interference?” He put his hand to his chest. “I’m crushed. And here I thought you were starting to like me.”
“I wasn’t implying any such thing,” Judith said, as her face reddened. “And you know it.” Then refocusing on James, she added, “I’m only glad you felt comfortable enough to scout us out, that’s all.”
Dev caught the knowing glance that passed between them and his jealousy ignited. What was that all about? The fact that Judith wasn’t immune to James bothered him.
He stewed for all of five minutes because no one could remain in a funk with so much joking going on around them. Soon he was laughing along with the others.
Halfway through the meal, James brought up the charity ball his mother was chairing that would take place in two weeks. “Are you taking Judith?” he asked.
Dev stopped eating and swore under his breath. He hadn’t had a chance to ask her.
He gave James a ‘butt out’ look and said, “We haven’t discussed it yet, but yes.” He then turned to Judith with raised eyebrows. “I know this isn’t the most romantic way to invite you, but would you like to go?”
“I’d love to.” She placed her hand on his and squeezed reassuringly. “I’d already planned on going. It’s even better to have a date. We’re all sitting together, I presume?”
“Yeah, my mom will love it,” James answered. “The more the merrier.” Without missing a beat, he turned to her. “Okay, Judith, what about your birthday bash?”
Judith put her head in her hands and groaned. “I can’t believe Kate told you about it. She’d better not be inviting the whole world.”
“Oh? Birthday?” This was something new. Dev glanced at Judith, eyebrows quirked. “Am I invited?”
“I don’t know, it’s Kate’s affair.” Her voice was full of laughter. “You haven’t done something to offend her, have you?” Then, shaking her head, she said, “You’ll have to talk to her for specifics. She’s letting me know the time and place a couple of days before. It’s for the Sunday after the ball.”
Just then the bill came. Both James and Dev dove for it. Dev won by inches. He put his credit card in the folder without looking and handed it to the waiter.
James rose from the table and turned to Stacy. “Quick…let’s make our getaway before he changes his mind and makes me pay.”
Dev grinned. “I owed you one, so think of us as square, okay?” He was only too glad to use this dinner as an apology to end their skirmish about Judith. The fact that James was here goading him meant he’d forgiven and forgotten.
“I don’t know! I hate giving up my guilt leverage so easily. But thanks for dinner.” James shook Dev’s outstretched hand. “I’ll be in touch. See you, Judith.”
“Good-bye, James. It was nice meeting you, Stacy,” Judith said.
> “I enjoyed dinner.” Stacy smiled. “Thanks for letting us crash your party.”
Dev stood after they’d gone and tugged Judith out of her chair and into a hug.
“Finally, I have you to myself,” he whispered in her ear. “Let’s dance. And then we’ll have a nightcap. I don’t want the night to end.”
“Okay.” Judith nodded.
Out on the dance floor, he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. It was heaven, holding her. He contentedly swayed as the band played a slow ballad.
They danced several numbers, laughed, and drank some more, until Judith glanced at her watch. “Oh, good grief. It’s after midnight. I have an eight o’clock appointment with an inspector to complete the lighting permit, after which, I have a full horrendous day scheduled.”
“I have a busy day ahead, too.” Sighing, he stood. “Come on, let’s get you home.”
He took her arm and slid it behind him. With his hand resting on the small of her back, he led her toward the double glass doors.
The valet was quick as few cars were left in the lot.
They drove in comfortable silence. At her house, Dev turned off the ignition. “I did mean to ask you to go with me to Alicia’s event,” he said in a low voice. “It’s in Palo Alto, so I’m spending the night. I’ve reserved a suite at the same hotel. I’d like you to stay with me. Will you consider it?”
Dev knew he could seduce her and take what he wanted. That hadn’t changed. Yet, he wanted more than easy submission. Now that his quest for revenge had become a foggy dream, almost forgotten, he didn’t know why he was hesitating. He only knew he was, and his intuition, always zoned in, told him Judith was holding back. When they finally did make love, he wanted her to do it with total abandonment. His patience was wearing thin, and this invitation would accomplish two things.
First, he’d have more time to work on her reticence, and second he’d set a time limit on his endurance. If he achieved his goal before then, well, he’d be perfectly happy. If not, he could deal with two more weeks of torture.