First Edition Romance

by Shannon M Harris

  “Then why do you come?”

  “Because I was invited, and it’s good business sense to go. I might not like these people, but if you can ignore them, and enjoy the food, and the dancing, I believe we will have a pleasant evening.”

  “It’s always a pleasant evening when I’m with you.”

  A smile graced Lauren’s face. “Charmer.”

  “Only for you, sweetheart. Only for you.”

  “Darling, look at me. People will be interested in us because I haven’t brought a date to this event in years, but I would never allow anyone to disrespect you or us. I may not have the money that some of these people do, but I have a few connections that could paint some of these people in a bad light.”

  Ainslon liked seeing this new side of Lauren and she couldn’t help the flutter in her stomach at each word out of Lauren’s mouth. It made Lauren even more desirable. “That’s sexy.”

  Lauren huffed, but lifted Ainslon’s hand and kissed the knuckles. “Are you ready?”

  “With you? Always.”

  The sedan pulled to a stop, where an attendant waited to open the door.

  Lauren knocked on the divider between the seats to alert the driver, and a few seconds later, the door unlocked. The attendant extended his hand to Lauren and assisted her out of the sedan. Lauren then held her hand out for Ainslon amid the cameras going off. Ainslon took a deep breath, clasped Lauren’s hand, and slipped out of the car. She didn’t even have time to worry about the photographers, because by the time she got her bearings, they were already inside the building. At the top of the landing, Lauren turned to her and winked before a steward announced them to the crowd below.

  It was such a surreal moment, Ainslon wasn’t even sure it was real.

  “Introducing Lauren Millán and Ainslon O’Neil.”

  Almost everyone in attendance stared at them as they descended the stairs, but Ainslon couldn’t have cared less in that moment, because she was right where she belonged. On Lauren’s arm. When they reached the floor below and Ainslon finally tore her eyes away from Lauren, she noticed the envious looks in a number of men’s and women’s eyes.

  “It’s all for you, darling,” Lauren whispered in her ear. “They are all wondering how I snagged a woman like you.”

  “Well, I, for one, will agree to disagree. That suit fits you like a glove. I can’t keep my eyes off you.”

  Lauren chuckled, then led the way toward the bar, where a half dozen people stopped them to talk and meet Ainslon. By the time they made it to the bar and retrieved their drinks, the venue was filling up fast.

  “How many people are here?” Ainslon asked.

  “Last year there were four hundred. Looks to be the same this year.”

  “That’s more than I expected.”

  “Most of the people in attendance are here for the same reason I am. To be seen. This may come as a surprise to you but most of these people don’t like me.” Lauren arched her brow and took a sip of her champagne.

  “Honestly, I find that hard to believe. You’ve been nothing but nice to me.”

  Lauren placed her empty glass on the tray nearest her, then turned to fully face Ainslon. “You, my dear, have always been the exception. I’ve never really fit into the high society life, but I can play my part and I love clothes and expensive shoes.” Lauren traced Ainslon’s jawline with the tip of her finger. “From the start, there was something about you that spoke to me and I would have been a fool to say no. I love my friends and my family, but at the heart of everything, I am a businesswoman and will do almost anything to make sure it succeeds. I’ve had to step on some toes for that to happen and I will not apologize for it. However, here lately, I would rather spend a day with you than at work. It’s a feeling I’m getting used to. You bring out the best in me.”

  Ainslon slipped her arms around Lauren’s waist and rested both hands on the small of Lauren’s back before pulling a willing Lauren closer. Lauren rested her hands on either side of Ainslon’s neck. “I like all of you and I would never ask you to apologize for what you’ve had to do to succeed. Seeing you with your family sends a warm feeling through me but seeing you in this type of setting turns me on to the point of combusting.” Ainslon swooned when Lauren tightened her hold.

  “Now, you’re playing a dangerous game.”

  “I’m good at games.”

  “You will never win against me.”

  Ainslon smirked. “Who said I wanted to win?”

  Lauren loosened her hold and chuckled. “My, my, you’re being feisty tonight.”

  “I…”

  “That wasn’t a question, and I like it.”

  Ainslon stopped a passing waiter with a tray of drinks, grabbed a full glass of champagne and downed it, then set the empty glass back on the tray. She slightly bowed to Lauren, holding out her hand. “Dance with me.”

  “I would love to.”

  Maybe Ainslon shouldn’t have had that second glass of champagne, but she was having so much fun, she wasn’t sure she wanted the night to end. Even some of the glares directed at them didn’t bother her. As she held Lauren close and inhaled a scent unmistakably Lauren, she felt so at peace it almost brought her to her knees.

  “You’re a bit tipsy,” Lauren whispered in her ear.

  “A little, but no worries, I would never do anything to tarnish your image.”

  Lauren lightly laughed. “Just having you here tonight has irrevocably changed my image. I can’t seem to keep my hands off you and I don’t care who knows that. These people aren’t used to seeing me like this.”

  “I’m sorry.”

  “Don’t be. I’m not.”

  Ainslon was about to say something when the announcement for dinner came over the loudspeakers.

  “Whatever you were about to say can wait,” Lauren said. “After dinner, if you want, we can dance some more, then go back to the condo.”

  “That sounds like the best idea I’ve ever heard.”

  “I had a feeling you would say that.” Lauren intertwined their fingers and Ainslon held tightly to her as they made their way into the dining hall and quickly found their seats. To Ainslon’s surprise, Lauren’s table was at the front of the hall. Ainslon’s eyes widened when the other occupants of the table arrived—The mayor and his wife, along with a man and woman Ainslon vaguely recognized.

  The smirk Lauren sent her way told her she knew who their table companions would be. Ainslon wasn’t sure how to feel about this revelation, considering she didn’t even vote for the man. He had only won by a small margin and a few people still believed he’d rigged the election. She’d never asked Lauren her political affiliations, but she hoped she hadn’t voted for him either. Ainslon acted appropriately when she was introduced to Dennis Rodgers, the mayor of Garriety, and his wife Lynette, even though she disliked the man. Marcus and Sharon Holcomb, the owners of Garriety’s lumber mill, filled the other two seats of their table.

  Dinner went by quickly, but as soon as the mayor opened his mouth, Ainslon had to hold back her tongue after their plates were cleared. He was just as pompous sitting in front of her as he was on television. When he addressed her, she cringed inwardly.

  “So, Ms. O’Neil, is it?” The mayor said.

  “Ainslon.”

  The mayor frowned. “Ainslon. What is it that you do?”

  “I own a children’s and comic bookstore.”

  The mayor laughed. “Comic books. That seems a bit childish.” He waved his hand dismissively.

  The sneer on his face put Ainslon on edge and she gripped her glass almost to the point of breaking. “Well, considering I’m the one that opened the store and not you, I don’t see how it’s really any of your business.” Maybe she shouldn’t have had that glass of wine on top of the champagne.

  Everyone at the table looked shocked at her outburst. The vein on the mayor’s forehead popped out.

  “Young lady, I will not have anyone speak to me that way.”

  “I am a woman an
d my name is Ainslon, not young lady.” Not even Lauren’s hand squeezing her leg could curtail her anger. She’d dealt with men like this her entire life.

  “You have some nerve—”

  “Now, Dennis,” Lauren said, addressing the mayor. “The least you can do is address Ainslon by her name and not some nickname you’ve deemed appropriate for her. This city is made up of all types of businesses and one could say mine is also childish, but we both know it is in the top three businesses this year.” Lauren took a sip of her wine. “I have had a lovely evening and I won’t have it ruined by your outdated views on women and what you think acceptable for this city. We both know I didn’t vote for you. We both also know a couple of years—”

  “All right,” Dennis quickly got up and loosened his tie. “Lauren, you’re right. Ainslon, if your business is up to code, we won’t have any issues. If you’ll excuse us.” Dennis and Lynette quickly left, followed by Marcus and Sharon.

  Ainslon squirmed in her seat before turning and facing Lauren. “I’m sor—” Lauren cut her off with a quick but efficient kiss.

  “Don’t be sorry. He’s an asshole and thinks he has more power in this city than he does. I have something on him that he doesn’t wish to be made public. I have never blackmailed someone, but I can’t say I wouldn’t.”

  “God, you’re hot,” Ainslon blurted out. “But you don’t have to use your leverage for me. I suppose I should have kept my mouth shut.”

  “You should always stand up for yourself, but in the future, you could use a little more tact. A well-placed word said calmly will do more than words said in anger.”

  “I’ll heed your advice.”

  “As you should.” Lauren finished her wine. “Let’s get out of here.”

  “What about dessert?” Ainslon asked.

  “Trust me,” Lauren said. “I haven’t forgotten about dessert.”

  The ride back to Lauren’s condo dragged on. All Ainslon wanted was to trace her fingers down the exposed skin of Lauren’s chest. That tuxedo was what dreams were made of, and the woman wearing it was a dream come true. Once inside, Ainslon pushed Lauren back against the closed door and placed kisses all along her collar bone, then along the exposed skin before working her way back up and nipping Lauren’s jaw.

  “I’ve wanted to do that all night.”

  Lauren lay her head back against the wall. “And I’ve wanted you too.”

  Ainslon took in Lauren’s ragged breathing, then ran her tongue along the exposed skin of Lauren’s neck, before whispering in her ear, “I hope this is the dessert you were talking about because you look good enough to eat, and I intend to do just that.” Lauren’s laugh sent shivers down her spine.

  “Well.” Lauren gripped Ainslon’s wandering hands and pulled their bodies flush together, before pushing her up against the wall. “I had intended for you to be dessert, but I’m more than willing to allow you a bite.” Lauren lifted Ainslon’s hand and bit the tip of her finger. “You’ve already had your lick.” She licked Ainslon’s finger. “But I’ve thought of nothing but getting you out of this dress all night, and I hope you’ll do me the courtesy of getting out of it slowly.”

  “Slowly, huh?” Ainslon wiggled out of Lauren’s embrace, turned, and took a few steps back to stand beside the couch. “Take your jacket off.”

  Ainslon watched with pleasure as Lauren stepped forward, slid the jacket off, and draped it over the chair, slipping the cummerbund off to join the jacket. Ainslon watched with rapt attention as Lauren lifted her shirt out of her pants. She did like a woman who knew how to follow directions. “Now the shirt.”

  With eager anticipation and rising excitement, Ainslon watched as, with deliberate slowness, Lauren unbuttoned her shirt to expose the lacy ivory bra, with its front clasp, covering the swell of breasts. It was all Ainslon could do to restrain herself from tearing off the offending fabric and fill her hands with the warm softness it covered.

  Lauren draped the shirt over the jacket, a small smile playing on her lips. “Anything else you want me to remove?”

  Ainslon wet her lips, a flood of desire warming her. She moved her eyes up to Lauren’s face. “May I?” Then glanced down at Lauren’s breasts.

  “Yes, you may.”

  With shaky hands, Ainslon reached out and unclasped the bra, sliding it off Lauren’s shoulders to fall onto the floor. God, Lauren was beautiful. She ran her hands over Lauren’s breasts, then filled her palms with soft firmness to gently squeeze, eliciting a small moan from Lauren.

  “You like to tease me, huh?” Lauren said almost in a growl.

  “God, yes.” Ainslon leaned forward and ran her tongue along Lauren’s collar bone, before biting down on her left shoulder, bringing forth an almost breathless moan from Lauren. “How much?” Ainslon raised her head and took a step back. “How much do you want me?” She ran her fingertip along Lauren’s nipple. “I’m waiting.” The rise and fall of Lauren’s chest urged Ainslon on. “I don’t like repeating myself.”

  Lauren smirked. “Are you sure you want to play this game?” She took a step forward.

  “Yes.” Ainslon took another step back. “If you can catch me, you can have me.” She’d just stepped onto the second-floor landing when Lauren wrapped her arms around her and pushed her up against the wall.

  “So, it’s games you want to play?” Lauren ran her hands down Ainslon’s back, then around her waist and cupped Ainslon’s breasts. “You are so sexy,” Lauren whispered in Ainslon’s ear. “Tell me something?”

  “Anything.” There wasn’t anything she wouldn’t give her.

  “Is this a game you think you can win?”

  Ainslon pressed onto the wall when Lauren placed kisses on her neck. “I don’t think I want to win.” The pounding of Ainslon’s heart slowed when Lauren chuckled against her skin. While Lauren was distracted, Ainslon turned and wrapped her arms around Lauren’s neck. “I think you’re going to have to teach me the rules.”

  “That could take all night.”

  “I’m counting on it.” Ainslon lowered her hand and unbuttoned Lauren’s pants before pushing them down her hips and cupping her ass. “Are you going to make me do all the work?” Ainslon squeaked when Lauren lifted her and threw her over her shoulder. Good grief, this woman was amazing.

  “Your smart mouth is going to get you into trouble, Ainslon.”

  “Promise?”

  Lauren slapped Ainslon’s butt, then laughed. “I promise. But first, I want to get you out of that dress…and what’s underneath it.”

  Ainslon slowly became aware of her surroundings, a smile making its way onto her face. She kept her eyes closed but wrapped her arms more securely around Lauren’s waist and placed a kiss on her neck. As her hand traced circles on Lauren’s bare stomach, Ainslon trailed kisses from Lauren’s neck to her shoulder before biting, then licking it. What a way to wake up.

  “If you keep doing that, we’ll never get up,” Lauren mumbled.

  “Is that a challenge?” Ainslon ran her fingertips along Lauren’s bare stomach, down her waist and settled on her thigh. “I do love a good challenge.” She scraped her fingernails along the skin.

  Lauren stilled Ainslon’s hand from going any further and twined their fingers. “As much as I would love to continue this, we should get up soon.”

  Ainslon kissed Lauren’s shoulder, then pulled her snug against her. “I hope making love with you always feels like last night did.” Ainslon let a memory from the previous night invade her thoughts.

  Ainslon melted immediately into the kiss. She grasped onto Lauren’s hips, her insides melting with the ghost of Lauren’s fingers along her spine. Lauren barely gave her a second to breathe before pulling her down onto the bed and flush against her. Just the feel of those soft, warm breasts against hers sent Ainslon’s mind into overdrive. Lauren’s touch sent chills along her body.

  “You’re stunning,” Lauren managed to say between heated kisses.

  Ainslon kissed her way down Lauren�
��s chest and closed her mouth around a nipple, sucking lightly.

  “Yes, darling.”

  Lauren turned in Ainslon’s arms, the morning light shining on her face. “That can be arranged. I would love nothing more than to stay in bed with you, but the day awaits us. We can spend the day here, then tonight, dinner with my family.”

  “I know.” Ainslon kissed her cheek.

  “Darling, I want you to understand something.”

  She sounded so serious Ainslon stopped her exploration of Lauren’s body and paid attention.

  “Last night surprised me. I hadn’t expected we would be here yet.”

  “Do you regret it?”

  “No.” Lauren pulled her close. “Never, and I hope you don’t either.”

  “Not a chance. We’re good together. So good. Last night was amazing and I can’t wait to do it again. We’re doing a good job of balancing our relationship. Last night was a new first step.”

  “It was a good one.” Lauren pecked Ainslon’s lips, then slowly got out of bed. Ainslon gulped when the sheet fell away, exposing every bit of Lauren to her.

  “You’re a goddess.”

  Lauren threw a wink over her shoulder. “If you ask nicely, this goddess will allow you to shower with her.”

  Ainslon didn’t have to be told twice and scrambled up off the bed.

  The shower was over far sooner than Ainslon wanted. After breakfast, Ainslon stood and helped Lauren with the dishes. Last night was perfect and despite feeling terrified, Ainslon had known it was the right time.

  She slipped her arms around Lauren’s waist, moved the hair from her neck, then placed a kiss on her nape. “I love you.” Lauren stiffened but only for a moment, then grasped the hands around her waist. “Every part of you, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us. It’s going to be a wonderful adventure.” Ainslon went to move her arms, but Lauren’s soapy ones clung to her.

  Lauren turned slightly so she could see Ainslon but kept their arms held tight. “I love you too. You’ve taken my life by storm and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”