Slowly, people rose from their seats all abuzz. Some headed for the bar, others for the back table. Patty made a bee line to them just as Liam rose from his seat.
“Ragen, will you wait for me while I fill out the paper work for my donation?” he asked.
“Wait.” She jumped out of her chair, reaching for him. Before she could think, she pulled him toward her. She kissed him on the lips. The kiss was meant to be a thank you, but it quickly turned more passionate than she’d intended. Her womb quivered. His powerful arms engulfed her, pulling her closer until all she could feel was him. Her hands massaged his shoulders, the back of his neck, enjoying the silky feel of his hair. His tongue entered her mouth as if he owned it. He tasted exquisite, like only a delicious hot-blooded male could. She ground her pelvis into his and he groaned, his hands cupping her behind, drawing her harder against him. She could feel his cock growing between them. The feel of it, so large and hard against her, it made Ragen pray he'd push her against the wall so that she might feel the full extent of his masculinity. Her body protested when the kiss ended leaving her light headed.
Patty cleared her throat. “So uh, Ragen, are you gonna be kissing the other man who gave a large donation too? If so…”
Slowly Liam pulled back from her then he gently nipped her ear making a soft animalistic sound. “You’re not going to kiss that other man, are you?” His tone was a bit gruff, almost as if he believed she might.
Ragen looked up into his eyes. They seemed brighter than she remembered. Again, so much like the wolves she treated at the zoo.
She gave his shoulder a playful swat. “No, of course not.” She glanced over to Patty who was looking at her inquisitively. “I’m… not sure what came over me. I hope you can forgive me.”
“Of course, my lovely Faery queen.” He kissed her cheek, pulling her close.
“Are you going to introduce me to your date?” Patty’s hands rested on her hips. “Where did he come from?”
“Sure.” Ragen was a little unsteady. “This is Liam O’Neill.”
“I gathered that.” Patty nodded at him in greeting. “I’m pleased to meet you.” She extended her hand to him.
“I picked him up on the street.” She winked. “Well, actually, he saved me from being abducted after I parked my car. He rescued me.”
“You’re kidding?” Patty’s eyes widened.
“No, I’m not.”
“I’ll be back,” Liam interrupted. “Then I’ll walk you to your car. You can park it by my club.” Liam nodded at Patty then marched toward the donation table.
“What do you mean, abducted?”
“Two guys approached me after I got out of the car. They insisted I go with them. It scared me to death. One of them grabbed my arm.”
“Dear Lord. I’m so glad you’re okay.” Patty hugged her then gazed over at Liam. “So tell me what happened exactly? I mean, you look okay.”
“I am now. Liam stopped them. I'd just parked my car and was heading back here when two men ran up to me. They wanted me and my car. Then Liam showed up. He rescued me like a gallant hero then walked me here.”
“Oh dear God, did you call the police?” Patty stepped closer hugging her again. “I’m so sorry. I should never have left you. I feel so guilty.”
“No, it’s not your fault. I decided to come here. I didn’t want to miss you speaking.” She shrugged.
“Sounds like you could’ve missed a whole lot more than that.” Patty squeezed her tighter. “I’m so happy you’re okay.”
“I’m okay, and thankfully my car is too. They ran off. I think Liam scared them to death.”
“Thank God.”
“For sure. I was so scared. But I’m fine.” She pushed her hair over her shoulder. “Liam owns a club a street over, Urban Wolf. He invited us to dinner and an evening out, on him. Want to go?”
“Sure.” Patty stepped back, worry still furrowing her brow “I’ve heard of that club. I hear it’s awesome.” She glanced over at him. “By the way, does he have a brother?” She made playful googly-eyes in Liam's direction, then fanned her face with her hand. “I think I’m experiencing some momentary jealousy.”
Ragen’s gaze trailed her friend’s. She couldn’t help but admire the way his trousers fit him. His legs were powerful, strong, like a runner--no, more like a warrior. He stood head and shoulders over everyone else. His black dress shirt made his tanned skin all the more stunning.
Liam strolled back toward them, an easy smile on his face. His shiny straight black hair hung over his forehead nearly in his eyes. It gave him a frisky appearance.
“I do believe he’s a walking image of the perfect man,” Patty whispered to Ragen.
“I think you may be right.” Ragen smiled at him.
CHAPTER THREE
The Urban Wolf was a metro sleek club. It had the traditional dim atmospheric lighting. Tables were situated to allow conversation within view of the stage and access to the dance floor. It was the perfect date night location.
Ragen put her arm through Liam’s as their hostess led them toward the table. She couldn't resist touching him and since they'd left the medical building she had done so at every possible opportunity. His hand folded across hers along his arm. He didn't appear to mind. As they walked, Ragen couldn't help but notice people's eyes on her, employees and patrons alike. For a moment, she felt like prey in a wolf’s line of vision. But as Liam gazed down at her, squeezing her hand, his smile put her at ease.
Finally, they reached their table, and the hostess placed three menus on the table. Once seated, a waitress approached with three glasses of water. “Good evening, Liam.” She nodded at him. “What can I get for you and your guests?” She studied them as she spoke. Her gaze was penetrating, full of curiosity. Only when Patty winked at her did she look away.
“Zoey, these two ladies are my guests. Their bill is on the house. Bring us out the sampler appetizer. I’ll have a whiskey straight up. What do you ladies want to drink?”
Ragen picked up the trifold advertisement from the table, pointing to a drink featured on the side of the display. “I’ll have this strawberry Long Island Iced Tea. Sounds yummy.”
“Are you sure?” Patty looked quizzically at her. “That’s a strong drink. But, I’ll have one too.”
“Sure thing.” The small dark-haired woman left with their drink orders.
“I’m hoping it will relax me,” she replied. “I’m still kind of shook up over what happened earlier.” Ragen hugged herself. “I need to loosen up.”
Liam leaned closer to her. “Please do. Relax. Enjoy. I suggest you both have our special rib-eye steak.” He put his hand on his stomach. “It’s delicious.”
“Oh, sounds delicious! I haven’t had a steak in a while.”
Patty made a funny face. “I’m a vegetarian.”
“We have salads too. Look at the first page. It’s full of bunny food.” Liam winked. “I’m a wolf, I like my meat.” He chuckled.
Patty nodded, turning the page to check out the salad section of the menu. “There’s a great selection. It all looks so good.”
Zoey was back in a flash with their drink orders. “Wow, that was fast,” Patty said as her drink was placed in front of her.
“I’m gonna have your special, medium well with a side salad, house dressing, and baked potato.
“I’m going to have the special too. I’ll take mine rare.” Liam handed over his menu then rested his arm on the back of Ragen's chair.
Another female server with short blonde hair brought out their fried zucchini and cheese appetizers. “Be careful, they’re hot.” She smiled as she sat the food on their table. Zoey stood to the side until the other server was finished.
“Oh, these looks great. I’ll have your large garden salad, no dressing.” Patty handed her menu back.
“Your orders will be out shortly.” Zoey turned and left.
“Thanks for treating us to dinner and your contribution to our cause. I... we, really apprec
iate it.” Patty smiled.
“My pleasure.” He looked directly at Ragen. “I think what you’re doing’s admirable.”
“Thank you. We think it's a good thing too.”
A new singer was introduced on stage. “Tonight is amateur night, for performers to show off their talents. It’s the most popular night of month.”
Patty tapped her fingers to the music. “You should sing.” Patty excitedly patted Ragen’s arm. “Really you should. She has a beautiful voice. I’ll sign you up.”
“No.” Ragen shook her head. A wave of heat passed over her as she thought about performing in this type of setting. Part of her wanted to, but the other part worried about what Liam would think about her.
Zoey arrived with their cocktails, placing them on the table. “I’ll be back with your entrees.” She rushed back toward the kitchen.
“Come on, you have to, you are an incredible performer,” Patty goaded.
“Yes, please do, there’s a prize for the winner.” Liam reached for her hand to gently touch the back of it. “I’d love to hear you sing.”
“Really, what’s the prize?” Patty asked.
“We give away a free stay in a local five star historic inn and a free dinner. Then you are entered into the end of the summer contest where the prize is a $1,000.” He smiled. “I’d really love to hear you sing. If your voice is as lovely as you are, it will be a real pleasure.”
Patty nearly jumped out of her seat. “Ragen, you have to do this.”
“Oh, I don’t know,” Ragen sighed.
“Sure, you do. She used to perform in college all of the time. In fact, she had a vocalist talent scholarship for her undergraduate. She’s good enough to be a professional.”
“Is that true?” He touched her hair. Ragen felt the sensation rush to her pussy. She clenched her legs together, trying to control her body's reaction. “Faery queens always sing bewitching songs.”
“Can I sing anything I choose?”
“Yeah, sure. My musicians do an excellent job accompanying. They know most everything. There are two backup singers too, if you need them.”
“Okay, I’ll do it.” Ragen took a deep breath. “Once I get up there, it’ll be a good experience.”
“Great, I’ll go tell them what you’ll be singing. We could use the money for the hospital.” Patty bounced out of her chair. “Be back soon.”
“I’d better drink this to build up my courage. This is a bit of a different crowd than what I’m used to.” Ragen picked up the icy glass and took two big swallows.
“I’m sure you’ll be fantastic,” Liam reassured her.
“Thanks, but best reserve your opinion.” Ragen smiled, shaking her head as the alcohol hit her. “Wow, this drink packs a punch.” She giggled, gazing over at him.
He leaned back in his chair, and she soon realized his eyes were focused on hers. “Ragen, do you have a lover?”
A cascade of warmth flooded her entire body, even the roots of her hair tingled. She guzzled down a huge gulp of her drink.
Liam grinned in amusement. “I do believe you’re blushing. I don’t mean to embarrass you.”
“I’m good.” She took another sip of her drink. “No, I don’t have anyone.”
“Glad to hear it.” He leaned closer to the table. “Tell me, would you be interested in going out with me?”
Her heart skipped a beat. “Well, how about you? Do you have a lover?” she asked.
“No, I don’t.” He grinned and another wave of heat passed over her.
“Then yes.” She smiled back at him. “I’d love to go out with you.”
“Great. What do you like to do on dates?”
Zoey appeared with some of their food, sat it down, and was gone quickly. “I like dining out, movies, walks, and concerts. Anything, really, if I enjoy the company. Simply spending time together is pleasant. I also like to cook. And it seems you like to eat.”
“I do indeed.” He grinned.
“You’re all signed up.” Patty appeared out of nowhere. Zoey followed with the rest of their food. “They even have a female backup singer for you. You’re gonna win for sure. This salad looks great! Let’s eat.” She sat down then picked up her fork. “Hey, do you have your special dress in the trunk still, Regan? The one you wore at our last fund raiser where you performed?”
“Yes, I never took it into the house. But I can wear this.” Ragen motioned to her dress. “This is a nice dress.”
“It is indeed.” Liam winked. “You look very nice.” “No.” Patty shook her head. “The other dress completes the look. You’ve got to change. The audience votes for the winner, and you need all the votes you can get.”
“When do I go on?”
“They told me you’ll be on in about five more sets. Ease up girlfriend. You’ve got time.”
“I hope this isn’t a mistake.”
“Don’t worry.” Patty waved her hand. “You’ll be fantastic.”
“But this group is a lot more hip-looking than my last audience.”
“Don’t worry Ragen, you’re outstanding. And this audience has more men. It’s bound to boost your vote.” Patty hurriedly ate her salad.
“I can walk you out to your car to fetch your dress after we eat,” Liam offered. “Then you can change in my office.”
“Thanks.” Ragen tasted her steak. Her stomach flipped with sudden nerves and excitement of what she was about to undertake. “Mmmm, this steak is wonderful.” She took another bite. “So tender.”
“I’m happy you’re pleased. I buy the best to serve at my club.” He cut into his steak, as he continued to watch her.
After they were done eating, Liam escorted them to her car. “I’ll have Zoey show you two to my office.”
Zoey met them at a back entrance of the club when they returned with Ragen’s change of clothes.
“This way.” She led the way down a long hallway lined with expensive mahogany paneling. The lighting was soft making the atmosphere even nicer. Ragen got a glimpse of the kitchen as she passed double doors, the aroma of tasty food floating toward them. The cook area looked modern, with glimmering stainless steel appliances and black tiled floors. “You know, I think Liam’s smitten by you.”
“I bet he’s smitten with a lot of pretty girls.” Patty said. “He looks like a real lady’s man.”
“No, not Liam.” Zoey shook his head. Her short ebony hair shone under the lighting. Her brown eyes were vibrant and seemed to twinkle. “He’s quiet, serious, keeps mostly to himself. He has friends, but he doesn’t make new ones easily.” She paused just outside a large mahogany door. “Here you go.” She opened it. “Make yourself at home. I’ll be around the corner in the kitchen. Come and get me and I’ll take you to where you need to be.”
“Thanks.” Patty closed the door almost in Zoey’s face. “Let’s get you done up. You have about twenty minutes.” Patty opened the garment bag.
“What am I singing?”
“Come on Over by Jennifer Lopez.”
“No way, you didn’t sign me up for that? For this group?”
“Yes I did. It’s perfect. Did you see the crowd? It’s full of men.”
“Exactly, there are too many young men for me to sing something so suggestive. Plus, there’s Liam. I don’t know if I can.”
“Hon, you’ll win for sure. Sing it like you did at your mother’s birthday party.”
“There were only women there.” Ragen shook her head.
“So?” Patty shrugged. “This crowd will appreciate it more. Come on, sing to your new beau.
Find him in the crowd and sing to him.” Patty helped her into the tight fitting sequin emerald dress. “You’re going to have to take your bra off.”
“Okay. I hope I don’t fall out of my dress.” Ragen laughed.
“Nah, you won’t fall out of the dress.” Patty gathered Ragen’s hair, helping her to arrange it down her back. “And if they do fall out, you’ll win for sure…and maybe more than the contest.”<
br />
“Patty.” Ragen rolled her eyes.
“What? He’s big time hot and loaded. I’ve never seen you so taken by a guy. You’re practically throwing yourself at him.”
“I am not,” Ragen huffed.
“I’m not being critical. It’s obvious you like him and that’s great. Use it girl.” Patty grinned at her then twirled around to look at the room. “Look at this office.” She moseyed around the room looking closely at everything. “All of these old books and gorgeous furniture. Yup, this guy’s definitely loaded. Wow, look at that.” She pointed to a ring on his desk. “I’ve never seen such a lovely ruby. Wonder why it’s on a golden chain? You sure he’s single?”
“Money isn’t important to me.” Ragen looked closely at her reflection in the mirror on the wall. “And yes, he told me he was single.” She glanced over her shoulder at the ring.
“I know money isn’t the most important, but it certainly helps.” Patty came around the side of the desk to zip up Regan's dress. “Besides, if he didn’t have a dime, he looks so good it wouldn’t matter anyway.”
“Maybe the ring belongs to a relative. Who knows?” Ragen walked to stand in front of the floor length mirror on the other side of the room. She admired how the sequin dress hugged her hips, accentuating her figure perfectly. “I do look pretty good.” She turned around. “Ok. I guess I’m ready to go on.”
“You’ll do wonderful. You look absolutely marvelous in this dress! You’ll bring down the house and your new man too. Now, go sing your heart out.” Patty hugged her then opened the door leading her out.
CHAPTER FOUR
Ragen gave all she had to her performance. The musicians were exceptional in their accompaniment, making her sound all the more spectacular. The audience seemed enamored watching her while they moved to the music. Flawlessly, she emulated the pop artist’s sensual words. During most of her performance she maintained eye contact with Liam. His eye color intensified as he watched, glowing in the dim lighting. As she watched him, something magical passed between them. When the music ended with her last invitation for her lover to come on over, the crowd exploded with applause, whoops and hollers.
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