by D. Camille
“He will…”
******
Kent’s day had been non-stop since arriving at his office. In between monitoring Warren’s office and his actual work as a broker, he’d been in his seat the entire day. Now as he was finishing a report that was worth millions of dollars, he was focused on computing the final numbers.
He didn’t even notice the sun beginning to set outside his window with his eyes glued on the computer screen. Hearing a slight noise, he looked toward the door and saw a beautiful, chocolate doll standing in the doorway.
“Hi,” she said quietly.
Quickly, he looked at his watch then out at the darkening sky before turning back to her. “One of your co-workers remembered me from the club and escorted me up here.”
Kent stood. “Damn, I’m sorry.”
“You weren’t answering your phone, so I stopped by since the restaurant is nearby,” Lotus explained.
He walked over to where she still stood. “I put my phone on silent so I could concentrate. I didn’t realize I’d been working that long.”
She smiled up at him. “I can just go and meet Kyle.”
He took her hand. “Or you can wait here with me until I’m done and then we can go together.”
“I don’t want to disturb you.”
Kent looked her over in the halter-top dress that showed her ebony shoulders and arms then covered her breasts before hugging her hips. “Yeah, uh you should wait with me, ‘cause you look like chocolate and you smell like coconut, and I don’t want to have to show my ass tonight.”
Lotus laughed. “So you like the way I look and you’d like to escort me?”
“That’s what I said,” he replied.
“You have such a way with words.”
He smiled. “Come on in here and give me like fifteen minutes.” Kent led her to the expensive sofa located in the corner of his office.
“This is very impressive Kent.”
“What you thought I was a gopher?” he questioned.
Lotus looked at him dressed in his tailored suit and tie. “No, not a gopher.”
Kent stood watching her until she touched his face. “This side of you surprises me, that’s all.”
“That’s a good thing?”
She nodded. “Yeah, a really good thing.”
His eyes twinkled. “You want me to put you on this couch?”
“Now that’s the side I’m familiar with,” she told him. “Go finish your work.”
Lowering his head, he kissed her briefly. “Can I get you anything while you wait?”
“No, I’m fine.”
Lifting his head, he nodded then went back to his desk. Giving her a sexy smile, he turned to his computer. Lotus took the opportunity to study him as he concentrated on his work. From his silky, wavy hair that was cut to precision, to his intense green eyes. His golden complexion underneath the neatly trimmed beard and his full, plush lips completed one beautiful package.
Feeling her body warm, she turned to the window and looked out at the darkening sky. The city was preparing for the night and so was she. She had become concerned when Kent hadn’t answered his phone for a few hours. On her way to the restaurant, she’d spotted his car in the nearly empty parking lot as many people had gone for the day, so she’d stopped to check on him.
Running into his co-worker had been a coincidence and that he’d remembered her even more so. Smiling, he’d gone on about her spoken word and then shown her where Kent’s office was located. Now standing here looking out at the city, she was glad that she’d decided to come.
“You aren’t going to get much work done staring at me,” Lotus said softly about five minutes later.
Kent smiled and lifted a brow in confusion. “How do you know I’m staring at you?”
“I can see your refection in the glass, boy.”
“Well the curve of your ass is a distraction,” he told her.
Lotus turned quickly then Kent leaned back in his chair and scanned her front. “And that’s even more of a distraction.”
She folded her arms. “Stop.”
Smiling, he rose and walked over to her. Gently, Kent turned her back to face the window and pulled her body back against him, wrapping his arms around her waist. “It’s beautiful from the back or the front,” he whispered in her ear before kissing her neck.
Lotus leaned back. “Are you done?” she asked.
“With you, not for a long time…with my work, yes.” He answered squeezing her waist. “I just need to drop the paperwork off down the hall, then we can go.”
Lotus relaxed in his embrace and glanced out the window. Pointing to the sky, she said, “Look, the moon is full.”
“Are you turning into a werewolf?”
She smiled. “I really don’t like your mouth sometimes.”
“That might be kinda freaky though,” he whispered.
Lotus turned his arms and linked hers around his neck. “I’m under the impression that freaky doesn’t bother you.”
“It all depends. I do have some damn standards,” he said frowning.
“I’m happy to hear that,” Lotus smiled.
Kent pulled her against him and began to make her happy for a different reason. His mouth began to please hers in a way that she was beginning to eagerly look forward to. Lotus tightened her arms around him as he grinded softly against her.
“Oh! Excuse me.”
Kent heard the voice and slowly released Lotus. His green eyes hardened as he turned.
“What do you need Carla?” he asked coldly.
Carla kept her gaze on Lotus who was slowly licking her lips.
“Just wanted to see if you needed any help with that final report since it needs to be in tonight.” She turned her sights on Kent.
“I’m done,” he told her. “I’m dropping it off on my way out.”
Carla walked toward them with her hand extended to Lotus. “Hi I’m Carla Packard.”
Lotus glanced at Kent who still held his hard look then back to Carla. “I’m Lotus.”
“I remember you from the spoken word,” Carla said shaking her hand briefly. “Kent said that you two were old friends.”
Lotus lifted a brow at her statement. Clearly she’d witnessed their kiss so she knew they weren’t just old friends at the moment.
“Yes, Kent and I have known each other for a while.”
“Thanks for stopping by Carla, but like I said, I got this.” Kent warned.
Carla continued despite his warning. “So what are you, like an artist or something?” she asked Lotus.
Lotus raised a brow. Oh, okay…she didn’t need her gift to see this clearly. This woman was more than a co-worker.
“Actually, I like to perform spoken word when I’m not administering anesthesia at the Emory Hospital and Medical Center.” She smiled. “Sometimes when you’ve had people’s lives in your hands all day, you need a breather.”
Kent gave Lotus a sly smile then turned to Carla. “Carla, meet Dr. Lotus Masters.”
If she was surprised, Carla managed to conceal it very well. She smiled and said, “Well it’s nice to meet you.”
“I can drop that report off for you, since you’re on your way out,” Carla said turning back to Kent.
“I got it.”
She nodded. “Well, I guess I’ll take off.”
“It was nice meeting you too,” Lotus said sweetly as Carla walked out of the office.
Lotus looked at Kent. “Was she on the team?”
He shook his head. “Nah, but she wanted a try out.” Kent led Lotus to his desk where he grabbed his report from the printer. On the way out the door, he stopped and kissed her cheek. “However, the roster is now full.”
Kent took her hand and brought it to his lips. “I recently signed a superstar.”
Lotus rewarded him with a full dimpled smile before they walked down the hall hand in hand.
Chapter 7
Kent escorted Lotus down to the restaurant where Kyle was wai
ting for them. He studied the couple as they took seats across from him.
“You two good now?” he asked.
Lotus smiled and looked over at Kent. “For now.”
Kent gave her a look then turned to Kyle. “What’s up Kyle?”
“I’m good,” Kyle replied. “Taking care of business.”
“That’s cool,” Kent agreed. “When are you leaving?” he asked pointedly.
Lotus looked at Kent who kept his attention on Kyle. “As soon as I’m done,” Kyle answered firmly.
Reaching for a menu, Lotus opened it and began perusing the wine list. She was going to need it around all this testosterone tonight.
“Lotus, I saw the article at your apartment about Propofol. Are you very familiar with it?” Kyle asked and Lotus lowered her menu.
“Yes, we’re using it at the hospital for certain surgeries.”
“Do you find it effective?” he asked and Kent looked between the two of them.
Lotus nodded. “Yes, it acts quickly and seems to have less side effects of nausea, and the patients say they feel as if they’ve just awakened from a really good nap.”
Kyle nodded. “That’s what I’ve heard.”
“Are you using it for something?” Lotus asked confused.
“Maybe.”
She lifted a brow. “You know that’s supposed to be administered by a doctor?”
“To patients, yes.”
Kent laughed and shook his head before picking up his own drink menu. If these two were going to talk shop, he’d definitely need a few tonight.
The waitress arrived and all three placed their drink orders then Kent turned his eyes on her. “Kyle, how are things at the FBI?” Lotus asked trying to ignore Kent’s deep perusal.
If Kyle noticed Kent’s lazy inspection or her flushed reaction, he didn’t give any indication. “Things are good in the lab. I’ve been promoted to a Senior Forensic Specialist.”
Lotus smiled. “The Gods! Congratulations! We have to celebrate.” She turned to Kent. “Isn’t that great?”
“Congratulations.” Kent said without taking his gaze off Lotus.
Kyle smiled to himself and studied the couple. “So Lotus, when can I get some more of that special spaghetti that you make for me?”
Both heads turned to him, one surprised and one pissed off. Hmm…so they really are a couple, Kyle thought to himself. Interesting…
“Uh, sure Kyle…” Lotus said slowly.
“Unless, the time has come for us not to hang out anymore?” Kyle asked slyly watching Kent.
Kent’s phone buzzed and he slowly pulled it out of his jacket. “Excuse me…I need to check this out.”
Standing, he quickly walked away from the table, leaving Lotus and Kyle. Their drinks arrived and she quickly took a sip.
“You and Kent?” he asked.
Lotus looked across at his handsome face. “Maybe…”
Kyle shook his head. “Wow, that’s surprising.”
“I think he feels the same way,” she admitted.
“Not to you though…” Kyle surmised. “He’s the one you were waiting for.”
Lotus smiled. “You figured that out quickly.”
Kyle nodded. “I’m pretty perceptive.”
“It’s taken him five years.”
“Damn…and you waited?”
“I had to follow my path,” Lotus said shrugging. “It was revealed to me that he was the one.”
Kyle took a sip of his drink. “That had to be a tough pill to swallow.”
“If I’d had my choice, it probably would not have been Kent Baker.” Lotus took another sip. “But at least, I know it won’t be boring.”
“Kent is always interesting,” Kyle agreed.
Lotus smiled at him. “You’re still my very good friend Kyle.”
Kyle reached across and took her hand. “I hope this turns out to be all that you want, Lotus. You deserve it more than anybody.”
“And if he hurts you, I’ll kill him.” Kyle sat back and quietly sipped his drink.
******
Kent walked to a quiet hall off the lobby and placed an earpiece in his ear. His phone had alerted him to some activity in Dennis’ office. He waited until the recording started and listened intently as Dennis’ voice came through loud and clear.
“I went to meet with him, but something happened. He didn’t show, called and said that he had something come up.”
Warren came through next. “Well, call him back and get his ass.”
“I need to do something different. That plan didn’t work out and I don’t want to put him on guard,” Dennis said rubbing his sore head.
“I don’t care what it is, just let him know he needs to back off for his own safety.” Warren instructed.
“What about the woman?” Dennis asked.
Dennis gave a sinister laugh. “I have plans for The Blooming Lotus and no one is going to get in my way, not my family or that green-eyed playboy.”
Kent frowned as he listened to the rest of the recording. When it ended, he placed the phone back in his pocket then removed the earpiece and turned, bumping into a beautiful woman.
“Kent?” she said smiling.
Kent looked at her. “Hey girl, what are you doing here?”
“I’m in town for…personal business.” She told him.
“Trent said you’d taken some time off,” Kent said looking her over. “You okay?”
Simone smiled. “Yeah, I’m doing better.”
“Well you look good,” Kent told her.
“Is the green-eyed monster out tonight?” she asked. “Should I be on the lookout?”
He shook his head. “Nah, not tonight. You’re safe.”
She laughed and he smiled at her. “Hey, Lotus and Kyle are here, you should come and join us if you’re alone.”
“I don’t want to intrude,” Simone hedged.
“Girl, we need another person at the table, we look like we’re a threesome for real and I don’t get down like that…not with two dudes.”
Simone shook her head. “You are a mess.”
Kent took her arm. “Come on and have dinner with us.”
“Okay,” She allowed him to walk her back to the table. On the way, Kent saw Kyle take Lotus’ hand across the table, then sat back enjoying his drink.
He and Simone reached the table and both Lotus and Kyle smiled at Simone. “Look who I found?” Kent announced.
They all said their greetings and Simone slipped into the seat that Kent had vacated next to Lotus which left him to sit next to Kyle. He looked across the table at Lotus as she sipped her wine. Sliding his glass to his side of the table, he asked Simone if she wanted something.
“I’m sorry, were you sitting here?” Simone asked watching him move the drink.
“You’re good. This seat is fine.” He pinned Lotus with a look.
As the women began chatting, Kent turned to Kyle. “Dennis is going to try to make contact again soon.”
Kyle nodded. “Are we handling him this time?”
“Yeah, he needs to disappear before he figures out anything,” Kent told him. “We have all we need. They’ll think he snitched and went into hiding.”
Kyle drank his wine. “Cool. I’m ready.”
The four enjoyed dinner then decided to go dancing. Before they could be seated at the club, Kent took Lotus’ hand.
“Let’s dance.”
Lotus allowed him to lead her to the dance floor where a slow jam was playing. Taking her gently in his arms, he held her close inhaling her scent.
“You’re not going to stop smelling me are you?” Lotus whispered.
“Stop smelling so damn good.”
Gently, he moved her from side to side. “You smell good too,”
“Oh, you remember me now?”
“I haven’t forgotten you in five years Kent.”
He looked down at her. “I want to take you home.”
“Why?”
“Because I’m se
lfish as hell and sharing you with Kyle is about to make me pop off.”
Lotus smiled. “So you’d like to spend some quality time with me alone?”
“That’s what I said.”
Their eyes connected as he pulled her closer to his body. “I can’t believe that you’re jealous.”
“That makes two of us.” Kent placed his cheek next to hers. “See what you’ve done?”
She laughed softly. “You think I feel bad?”
“Nah, you don’t. You put this whammy on me and now I’m all fucked up,” he whispered in her ear.
Rubbing her face against his, she said, “Poor baby, what do you want me to do?”
Sliding his hand down to her ass, he squeezed gently.
“Kent!”
He grinned down at her. “You asked.”
“I didn’t think that would be your answer.” Lotus looked around the room to see if anyone was watching them.
“What are you looking for?” he asked.
She looked at him. “I wanted to see if anyone saw what you did.”
He repeated the action and her eyes widened. “That?”
“Stop.” She frowned at him.
Kent moved his hand up while laughing. “You’re so damn sweet.”
Burying his face in her neck, he growled. “And so damn sexy.”
“I’m not just for your pleasure,” she told him.
Touching her face, his green eyes grew serious. “If that was the case Lotus, there’s no way in hell I’d be sitting in a damn restaurant with another dude, and when I had you in your bed with this hot little body wrapped around me,” he lowered his mouth to her ear. “I would have stirred the shit out of that sweet honey pot.”
Lotus lost her breath and closed her eyes from his words and the feel of him in her arms. She held on to him tighter, now oblivious to the crowd around them.
“Nah, baby it won’t be just my pleasure…” He squeezed her ass again gently cuffing it. “It’s yours too.”
They both became wrapped up in the music as their bodies moved to the rhythm. Lotus liked the way Kent moved his body against hers in a sultry tease that kept her moving closer in anticipation. When she began to tap on his shoulder, he smiled.
Kent, for his part, still wasn’t quite sure what was going on between the two of them, but he’d decided that it felt too good to abandon it now. Lotus truly did have him on a swivel and he was enjoying every minute of it. The way she was rubbing against him now told him that he wasn’t the only one feeling this reaction.