by Alexia, Ava
“I’m not asking you to. I’m merely asking your opinion,” he stated.
“An opinion that I’ve deduced from my discussions with Tess. That’s a very thin line that you’re asking me to dance around,” Jaclyn declared.
“You care about her a great deal and only want what’s best for her. So do I,” Matt said gently.
Jaclyn looked into his clear grey eyes and was stunned at the pure intensity she saw in them. She could only imagine how they must appear when he was passionate. Tess didn’t stand a chance. Jaclyn averted her eyes and cleared her throat.
“Just how much do you care about her?” Jaclyn questioned.
“A lot,” he answered.
Matt was not going to reveal more and Jaclyn sensed it. She sighed.
“Tess cares about you probably just as much. But I don’t think she realizes it yet. She needs more time to come to that conclusion,” Jaclyn said.
He sighed.
“I thought as much. I don’t want to push but—
“Then don’t. She’s dealing with a lot right now. Trying to get her career on track and handle the pressure from her father is a lot for her to manage,” she said. “Don’t allow her to think that her relationship with you is a burden. She’ll run if she does.”
“Thank you, Jax. See, you were able to provide insight without betraying Tess’s trust in you,” Matt smiled.
“Well, you have a way of extracting information from a person before they know it. You should use that technique on Tess next time,” Jaclyn smiled wryly.
He laughed and stood.
“I’ll try but things seem to go in a different direction when I’m with her,” he said ruefully.
She chuckled.
“I think I know of the direction you’re intimating but I’ll not say,” she grinned.
His answer was to wiggle his eyes brows roguishly and laughed.
“See you later,” he grinned and left the room.
Jaclyn watched him go and thought Tess was the luckiest girl in the world.
*****
Hours later Matt stood in the discarded wine cellar that had been transformed into a dark room. He’d bought every item associated with developing pictures that the store clerk had suggested. Trays, an enlarger lens, a safe light, photo paper and developing chemical were all on the bench before him. He could only hope that everything she would need was here. He knew that Tess preferred film photography rather than digital. He would have to ask her why. He was about to leave when the door opened.
“Matt! I wondered where you were,” Tess said gaily.
“You’ve found me. I was just making sure the dark room was ready for you,” he explained.
She looked around and was delighted with what she saw.
“It’s perfect! But you didn’t have to do all of this. I was going to purchase the equipment I needed,” she said.
He shrugged.
“No need. I hope there is nothing missing,” he said.
“There isn’t. Thank you,” she said.
Tess stood on her toes to loop her arms about his neck. She kissed him deeply then pulled back.
“I really like your gratitude. What else can I do for you,” he grinned.
She laughed.
“Nothing for now. But I may think of something later on,” she flirted.
“I’m at your service…now,” he whispered.
He tried to kiss her again but she backed away and giggled nervously.
“I should get started. I have a lot of pictures to develop,” she said.
“And you will….later,” he responded.
He pulled to against him and spun her around to pin her to the wall.
“I’ve been waiting to do this all day,” he whispered.
He lowered his head and captured her lips in a scorching kiss. Tess immediately felt the rumblings of desire. She simply could not resist this man; nor did she want to. Tess slipped her hand under his shirt to caress his chest, back and everywhere she could reach. He pulled his shirt over his head and her lips followed her hands. Matt hands moved to her blouse; his nimble fingers quickly unbuttoned the shirt and sought her breasts. He unsnapped the front closure of her bra and his mouth devoured her nipples. Tess was on fire with want. Desire was coursing through her veins making her wild in her need. She held his head to her breasts wanting more and more of him. She couldn’t get enough of the arousal that was taking her to new heights. Matt pressed into her and she felt his full erection. He began grinding against her and she cried out in exultation. Tess felt her shorts fall to her ankles and she kicked them off. Her panties soon followed and she writhed wildly when he caressed the length of her body as he knelt to the floor. He kissed her stomach and tongued her navel. Her desire was fever pitch when he trailed his mouth further down her torso. Tess was dying to feel his mouth on her heat.
“Matt! Please,” she begged.
“Please?” he teased.
“You know what I want,” she panted.
“Indeed I do,” he whispered.
He lowered his head and she cried out when she felt his tongue push through her curls. Her knees went weak as he suckled and teased her clitoris. She caressed the back of his head as he caused erotic sensations to consume her body. She soon could not support herself and she began sliding down the wall. Matt pulled her to the floor and preceded to thrust into her. She didn’t know when he had removed his pants and it didn’t matter. All that was important was that he was shooting her to the stars where she spun out of control. She contracted her muscles again and again and he yelled out in passion. Their climax took them to a place that was electric and magical; a place where they melded into one and was in perfect communion with one another. Matt came down to earth and felt incredulous.
“How do you do that to me, sweetheart?” he panted.
She cuddled against him.
“I had the same question for you,” she rasped.
He chuckled.
“I have no answer. Just don’t ever stop loving me like that,” he whispered.
“Only for you, my love,” she murmured.
He stroked her back and remained thoughtfully silent. She had never used that endearment before. Although he didn’t want to jump to conclusions, his heart was doing somersaults. She stirred and sat up. Smiling at her he brought her palm to his mouth and caressed it with his tongue. She returned his smile then pulled her hand away.
“Stop that or I’ll never get any work done,” she chided.
“You’ve been working all day. It’s time to relax,” he pouted.
“As soon as I get these photos developed and sent to Homes Extraordinaire. Then I can play,” she reasoned.
Matt palmed his cock and pointed it at her.
“He’s impatient. He wants what he wants now,” he teased.
He rubbed his penis head along her thigh.
“Stooop!” She giggled. “You’re impossible!”
“Just reminding you of what’s in store for you. I wouldn’t want you to forget,” he smirked.
“That isn’t likely,” she scolded. She pointed to the door. “Now out. I won’t get anything done if you stay in here.”
He grinned but rose from the floor. She did the same and they put their clothes on. She reached for her panties and he grabbed them first.
“Matt, give me those,” she demanded.
He shook his head negatively.
“You won’t be needing these tonight,” he argued.
He stuffed them in his pocket and briefly kissed her mouth. He then left the room before she could further object. Her shock turned t excitement and she laughed out loud as she moved to the table to begin her work.
*****
Tess became lost in the process of developing film. Some people said that film development was old fashioned and digital was the best way to go. But she found that the pictures turned out cleaner and crisper with film. And although film costs were expensive, the film camera would last for decades whereas a digital cam
era would need to be replaced in two to three years. And if it were dropped then it was history. A new camera had to be purchased. And furthermore, she simply enjoyed watching her pictures come to life. There was nothing like it. She had processed the waterfall photos and caught her breath all over again at the magnificence of the natural wonder. She looked at the photos of the waterfall’s surrounding landscape and noticed something in the background that was caught on camera. She saw two trucks and what looked like an old shack in the distance. There were two men walking toward the shack carrying large containers. How odd. Why would anyone be in the area? Although the section of land was remote from the main estate it was still Matt’s property. Who were those men and what were they doing? And did they have permission to do it on private property? She needed to show these photos to Matt. Tess carefully removed the now dry photos from the elastic line she had mounted and left the dark room. She ascended the steps to the main floor and walked down the hall. She soon heard laughter coming from the salon. She entered the room.
“Tess, are you finished already?” Jaclyn stopped laughing long enough to ask.
“No. But I wanted to show Matt something that I inadvertently captured on camera,” Tess answered.
“What is it?” Matt asked as he moved to stand beside her.
Jaclyn also walked over to her side. Tess pointed to the two men in the distance behind the jungle.
“See these men. Aren’t they on your property, Matt?” Tess questioned.
Matt looked closely at the photo.
“Yes they are. My property extends beyond the jungle to the small clearing where the shack is. Beyond the shack is more jungle,” he frowned.
“And the shack is yours?” Jaclyn asked.
“Yes. I purchased it when I bought the land. I haven’t taken the time to remodel it yet,” Matt answered. “Who are these men and what are they doing?”
“They look suspicious to me. We should probably sneak in to watch them before making a surprise visit,” Jaclyn said.
“A good idea but we are not going anywhere. I will go alone,” Matt said firmly.
“I could take pictures of their activities. I have a video camera with me,” Tess suggested.
“Good idea, Tess,” Jaclyn said. “I love a figuring out a mystery.”
“Did either of you hear what I’ve just said? You are not going anywhere. I’ll do this alone. I won’t put you in danger,” Matt declared.
“Aw fooie! We won’t be in danger. They won’t even know we’re there,” Tess argued.
“That doesn’t matter. You’re not going. End of discussion,” Matt took the photos and left the room.
“How will we get out of the house without him knowing where we’re going?” Jaclyn asked. Excitement for adventure was running through her veins.
“I’m not sure; but I’ll think of something. Meet me in the tropical garden at ten o’clock tomorrow morning,” Tess said in hushed tones.
“I’ll be there,” Jaclyn grinned.
*****
Tess had just settled in bed when it started to rain. She loved the rain but was not a huge fan of lightning. She closed her eyes to listen to the rain and no sooner had she done so; a flash of lightning illumined her dark room. She gasped and pulled the sheet up to her chin.
“I’m here, Tess.”
“Matt,” Tess breathed.
He got into bed and pulled her close to his side. She snuggled against him, happy that he was there.
“Afraid of a little lightning?” he smiled.
“It’s not my favorite thing,” she muttered.
“It’s just God’s way of lighting up the night so it won’t be so dark,” he said softly.
“That sounds like something a parent would say to a child,” she replied.
“You’re right. My mother said it to me when we had fierce storms in Kentucky,” he confirmed. “I was only five years old and scared out of my mind when a storm came. She would lie in my bed to comfort and protect me. I’ve never forgotten her words to me.”
“They are reassuring words. Do you see your mom often?” Tess asked curiously. Matt had not spoken about his family.
“Yes. She’s living in New York now and I saw her before leaving to come here,” he answered. “I’ll take you to meet her if you like. You will love her.”
Tess smiled.
“I would like that very much,” she responded.
“Is Jax okay with storms?” he asked.
“Yes. She’s probably sound asleep,” Tess replied.
“Are you sure?” he pressed.
“Yes, I’m sure. Believe me if she wasn’t okay there would be three of us in this bed,” Tess giggled.
“Hmm. I rather like the idea of being in bed with two beautiful women,” he grinned.
She punched his arm playfully.
“I bet you do,” she retorted.
Another bolt of lightning lit the sky along with a loud clap of thunder. Tess jumped.
“Easy, sweetheart. I’ve got you,” he whispered.
He tightened his hold on her.
“I’m so glad you’re here,” she murmured.
“I wouldn’t be anywhere else,” he replied.
They fell into a companionable silence and listened to the rain. The lightning ceased but the heavy rain continued throughout the night.
*****
Tess stood before the dresser mirror attired in tan shorts and a green sleeveless crop top. She was brushing her long brunette locks when Matt came out of the bathroom wearing only a towel wrapped about his waist. He noticed that Tess was dress and sighed. It would be a bother to undress her but he could get it done in record time. He admired her tanned legs and arms; the results of being out in the sun on a regular basis. Her bare tummy drew him to her like a magnet. His fingers itched to caress the flat planes of her torso and massage her mind-blowing breasts. He then saw his hands travel down to unbutton her shorts and they both knew what would come next. He watched as she secured her hair in a ponytail and her smooth, luscious neck beckoned him. He moved to stand behind her and slid his hands around her waist. He bent to nuzzle her neck.
“Why are you dressed?” he murmured.
She leaned her head against his chest and sighed deeply. She loved it when he touched her but she had to stay focused and get to the garden on time.
“I want to take some more exterior shots. Jax is going to tag along with me,” she said.
It wasn’t a lie. She would be taking pictures; she just didn’t tell him the subject of her photography. Matt froze. Did he suspect that she wasn’t being totally truthful? She met his piercing gaze in the mirror.
“I made plans for us today. I thought that you had completed your assignment,” he said.
“Oh! What plans?” she asked nervously. She wasn’t good at deception.
“I thought we could have a picnic at the waterfall. I’ve invited a couple of friends to join us. They should be here by mid-morning,” he explained.
Mid-morning. That wouldn’t give her and Jax enough time to go and come back. They would have to put off their sleuthing for another day. She looked at him and smiled.
“I can take my pictures tomorrow. I would love to have a picnic at the waterfall,” she said cheerfully.
“Good. By the way, would you develop some extra photos of our trespassing guests? I will need them for the investigation,” he explained.
“Of course,” she said.
Maybe she should just forget about her spying. Matt seemed to have things well in hand. She would tell Jax. Tess felt Matt hands lightly moving over her body. She pulled out of his arms.
“I don’t think we have time for playing,” she chuckled.
“There’s always time for our kind of recess,” he grinned lascivious.
He dropped his towel and moved purposely toward her. Tess squealed and ran. He caught her easily and they tumbled onto the bed where they made wild, passionate love.
Jaclyn trotted down the grand staircase just a
s the doorbell rang. She waited a moment thinking either Ana or Matt would come to answer the door. Neither of them made an appearance and the bell rang twice more. Jaclyn shrugged and moved to answer the door. She opened the door and was met by two gorgeous men. Happy surprise reflected in her lovely blue eyes.
“Hello,” Jaclyn said amiably.
“Hello yourself, gorgeous. I’m Anthony Greenwich. Call me Tony,” he said as he extended his hand.
“I’m Jaclyn Harrington. Call me Jax,” she laughed.
Tony was suddenly abruptly pushed aside and another handsome hunk took his place in the doorway.
“Hi, Jax. I’m Oliver Beckman. Everyone calls me Ollie,” he smiled and extended his hand.
Jaclyn chuckled and shook his hand.
“Hi Ollie,” she grinned.
“Is Matt around?” Tony asked.
“It would be extremely rude of him to invite us for a picnic and then not show up,” Ollie grimaced.
“Picnic? I don’t know anything about it but please come in,” Jaclyn invited. “I’m sure he’ll show up in a few minutes.”
The two men strolled into the salon as Jaclyn closed the door. She then followed them into the salon and sat on the sofa and crossed her legs. She wore shorts that showed off her slender legs to perfection. Both men eyed her appreciatively as they took their seat; one on the sofa and the other in an armchair.
“So tell me, how did Matt get so lucky as to land you as a houseguest?” Tony asked.
“That mangy reprobate has all the luck,” Ollie said.
“I’m no disgusting reprobate but I do have fantastic luck,” Matt said as he came into the room.
The men laughed as they rose to greet and embrace Matt.
“I see you’ve met these two rogues, Jax,” Matt said. “I’m beginning to question my decision to invite them to our picnic. It occurs to me that they may not be fit company for you.”
“Ha! If she has lived under the same roof with you for any length of time then she is undoubtedly craving sane, rational and fun companionship,” Ollie said.