A Thin Line Lyric James © 2006 www.cobblestone‐press.com
A Thin Line This is a work of fiction. Names, ...
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A Thin Line Lyric James © 2006 www.cobblestone‐press.com
A Thin Line This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. A Thin Line Copyright© 2006 Lyric James ISBN: 1‐60088‐011‐8 Cover Artist: Sable Grey Editor: Tammy Marini Excerpt from Bargain by Starlight by Stella & Audra Price All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced electronically or in print without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews. Cobblestone Press, LLC www.cobblestone‐press.com
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Lyric James Dedication To Henry, for always believing in me.
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A Thin Line
Chapter One Sam closed his laptop, stood, and stretched his aching joints. Four hours. He’d been crouched over the damn electronic monster for four long hours. He opened the white French doors of his suite and walked out on the balcony. Since arriving in Aruba five days ago, he’d ignored the clear, turquoise water and bright blue sky. But today, it beckoned him. He’d arranged and paid for a romantic getaway to celebrate his wedding anniversary. Before his wife had walked out on him. Before the divorce, he thought bitterly. Instead of canceling, he’d decided to go anyway. But when he walked through the doors of the suite, he regretted his decision. The king‐sized bed, the hot tub made for two. The room was meant for lovers. And he was missing a lover. It had been one lonely year of writing, editing, and nothing else. His libido all but forgotten. This trip was more than a vacation. It was a chance to pick himself up off of the dateless‐no‐sex floor and move on with his social life. The disintegration of his marriage had showed him that he wasn’t a one‐ woman man. He’d tried that with Shelia, and it hadn’t worked. He’d devoted himself to her. Gave her everything she’d wanted. She didn’t even work. But a three‐thousand‐square‐foot house and a Mercedes hadn’t been enough to satisfy his wife. She said he worked too much. That he loved the characters in his books more than he loved her, which was ridiculous. The characters in his books paid for everything she owned.
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Lyric James But it still hadn’t kept her from walking out on him, or stopping her from finding someone else to give her the kind of attention he hadn’t. What he needed now was a no‐strings‐attached partner for the week, an in‐it‐just‐for‐the‐sex woman. Nothing more, nothing less. All he needed was someone to help him get his rocks off. But unless he left his room, the only friend his dick would know was his right hand. And they had already grown way too friendly as it was. Rubbing a hand through his short, curly, black hair, he slipped on his worn sandals and picked up his room key. It was time to escape the confines of his room and see what attractions this high‐priced resort had to offer. Downstairs the lobby bustled like an airport’s international terminal. Every nationality he could think of seemed represented— African American, Caucasian, Asian, and Hispanic. As he rounded a corner, he heard raised voices. “I asked for a six‐o‐clock wake‐up call. My husband and I paid fifty bucks for that breakfast cruise. We missed it because of you.” His attention was drawn to a couple standing at the desk to his right. “Ma’am, I’m sorry.” “You bet your ass you’re sorry. I want my damn money back,” the angry woman demanded, ignoring her husband when he gave her arm a squeeze. The desk clerk looked as if she was ready to loose it when another female approached the upset couple. She began to speak softly with the couple, so he couldn’t make out her words. He watched her lips move. Her lips were beautiful, luscious, and full. He could write a book about this woman’s beauty, and it would definitely be erotica. Flawless, milk chocolate skin, long sable hair, and a body any man would drool over. Hell, he was drooling. He wiped the side of his mouth. She wore a coral, two‐piece bathing suit, and one of those flowing sarong‐type skirts. The long legs peeking out from underneath her skirt sent a shock right to his groin. A vision of them wrapped around his neck
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A Thin Line had his eyes glazing over. She looked his way briefly, but returned her attention to the couple, not missing a beat. If she were willing, maybe he had found his companion for the week. * * * * * Melodie felt like slapping the crap out of the enraged old bat who stood in front of her making a scene in the lobby. But she hadn’t made it to the top of the corporate ladder by beating up the hotel guests. She needed to resolve the ugly situation quickly to reduce the impact of this shrew on the other guests. She looked away from the couple momentarily and spotted a very handsome specimen of a man staring at the shrieking witch. There was some serious eye candy to savor over there. A shame she didnʹt have time to enjoy the view. Yeah, she had to shut this old woman up fast. Using the standard techniques she’d learned in her management course at Harvard, she offered the woman a room discount and free tickets to tomorrow’s cruise. At her husband’s insistence, the woman accepted, and the couple departed. Melodie waited until they were out of sight before she rolled her eyes. “Thanks, Mel.” “No problem, Tracey.” “Oh, my, that’s him.” Melodie lifted an eyebrow and asked, “That’s who?” “The guy I was telling you about—the gorgeous one staying in the honeymoon suite all by himself.” Melodie quickly glanced over her shoulder in the direction of the handsome specimen she’d noticed earlier. Not only was he gorgeous, but he seemed very well endowed, if she wasn’t mistaking that bulge in his pants. She took a quick mental snapshot. About six‐two, maybe one‐ eighty, athletic build, honey‐golden skin, curly black hair, and dreamy hazel eyes. Wearing low‐riding blue jean shorts, white tank top, Birkenstock leather sandals...nice feet. Yummy.
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Lyric James Her gaze swung back to Tracey. “Are you serious? That’s the guy in the honeymoon suite? Alone?” Tracey smiled. “Yep.” “So, where’s his wife?” “I don’t know, but I sure as hell wouldn’t mind standing in as a replacement bride. I take that back. I wouldn’t mind being the stripper at his bachelor party. That’d be one lap dance neither one of us would forget.” Melodie walked around the registration desk, smothering back a snicker, and shaking her head at one of her best friends. “You can’t. You’re married.” Tracey laughed. “Oh, right. I forgot.” “As my last duty as manager of this wonderful hotel, I’m going to type up a note about the griping couple so you can put it in their file. Then, my dear, I’m going to start enjoying my vacation.” “If you had any sense, you’d go sidle up to that hot stud and get laid before you fly to New York and start your new job.” “Yeah, right. I don’t think so.” Melodie refused to look behind her to see if he was still there. Who in the world sent that man to Aruba all by himself? To the honeymoon suite, no less. Whoever she was, she had to be an idiot. Maybe he had issues. And issues were not what she needed in her life right now. A good fucking maybe, but no one else’s issues. Still, he was scrumptious. Being a stand‐in bride—scratch that, lap dancing stripper—was an appealing thought. She giggled to herself. He probably wasn’t looking for a replacement bride, but maybe he’d consider a playmate. She shook her head again, laughing to herself. Melodie finished the letter, printed it, added her signature, and took it back to Tracey. The lobby was now, thankfully, empty. “I’ll see you later.” “Enjoy yourself, Mel.” Bending over, she picked up the plastic green bag she’d dropped before she’d had to deal with the irate couple, and smiled at Tracey over her shoulder as she headed to the beach. The slap, slap of her flip‐flops on
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A Thin Line the marble floor echoed throughout the halls and followed her across the sun deck. When she stepped off the deck, she slipped them off and stood in the sand, wiggling her toes. She loved the feel of sand under her feet. It reminded her of being a child, when her parents would take her and her sister to the beach every spring break. She lifted her face to the sky, letting the warm sun heat her skin. She found her favorite spot on the beach. Encircled by large rocks, it provided a cover from peeping eyes, a place for her to disappear and skinny dip in private. And she needed the respite. Her new job as Vice‐President of Planning and New Development of Marriott International, Inc. would consume her every waking moment. This was her first vacation in—crap, she couldn’t remember when. The only thing she wanted to do was swim, get some much‐needed rest, and read a few romance novels. If a handsome, naked stud happened to show himself, well, maybe she’d take Tracy’s advice and get laid. She grabbed her towel, whipped it out on the sand, unwrapped her sarong, and put it in her bag. On tiptoe, she peered over the rocks to make sure no one was around, and then removed her bathing suit. The steady wash of waves over sand erased any memory of the screeching shrew. Taking a deep breath, she ran and plunged into the water. Icy cold wetness shocked her senses, but she ignored it as she swam a few strokes. Her body would get used to it. Engrossed in her swim, Melodie didn’t notice the man until she began to surface out of the water. “Aaahh,” she shrieked. “Hi.” Her startled gaze swung up to meet the same hazel eyes she’d seen in the hotel. There was her handsome specimen standing on the beach like a black Adonis. “Um...hi.” What in the world was she supposed to do now? She was naked. Stark, raving naked and he stood there with a grin lighting up
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Lyric James his gorgeous face. The mental snapshot she’d done earlier had missed the deep dimples in his cheeks. He waved. “I’m Sam. I saw you walking this way and decided to follow you. I hope you don’t mind. I’m not a beach stalker or anything.” Her arms covered her breasts as she hovered in the water. “Well, seeing that I’m naked, and you’re standing between me and my clothes, I think I do mind.” He continued to smile and her stomach flipped. Why wasn’t she scared? Why did his presence make her want to run up and jump his bones? He turned and took in their surroundings. “I see you’ve found your own little corner of the beach.” “Yeah. There’s no bartender to give you another round of rum punch, but it’s a quiet place to relax and read and, I thought, skinny‐dip in private.” There went that smile again. Her body had gotten used to the water, but now, one look at those dimples, it shot into hyper‐drive. Hyper‐sex was more like it. Lust pooled between her thighs. A whole list of options raced through her brain at something approaching supersonic speed. Only a few seconds passed, but it was enough to make her question twenty‐eight years of reasonably rational behavior. Was she that bold? Could she just step out of the water and pretend as if it was nothing? He reached down and picked up a huge seashell. Well‐toned muscles flexed as he tossed it between his hands like a baseball. A sly smile lit the corner of his eyes. “Tell you what. If you want, I’ll turn around and give you time to retrieve your bathing suit and put it back on. If you want...” He was practically daring her to get out of the water. A challenge…and Melodie Waters never backed away from a challenge. She’d wanted a fling before she had to move to New York, and an opportunity she’d never expected had just presented itself. An opportunity with a gorgeous body and sexy lips to match.
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A Thin Line She let the waves wash her toward the beach, her mind made up. As she walked out of the ocean, his eyes widened, which made her even bolder. One minute she was holding onto being level‐headed Melodie— smart, rational, safe, her existence as it had always been. The next, she was a temptress, a fantasy, stepping from the water right up to him. He had a strong jaw, a straight nose, and long, thick lashes framed his beautiful eyes. He had an aura around him that kicked her senses into overdrive. She’d never been so aware of a man in her entire life. He exuded sensuality. Before she knew it, the question came hurtling out of her mouth. “Do you want to fuck me?”
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Chapter Two It took a lot to surprise Sam Loyd. His creative mind usually kept him a few steps ahead. This time, only one part of his anatomy was ahead—in big way. He’d issued a silent dare she wasn’t supposed to accept. He never imagined she’d actually glide out of the ocean in all her magnificent splendor. But she had. She stood only inches from him. A sharp intake of breath whooshed out of his lungs when she traced a perfectly manicured nail down his chest. “What’s the matter?” she whispered. “I’m here. You’re here. No one else is here. The sun is setting. The beach is warm.” She looked over his shoulder. “I have a perfectly, nice, big...” She emphasized the word by looking down and lightly grazing the rim of his shorts with her finger “...towel for two waiting.” He cleared his throat. “Don’t say it. I know. You’ve never done this before. You don’t know me from Sarah Jane.” She circled him like a hawk ready to swoop down on its prey, stopping behind him, her breasts against his back. “Well, you might not believe me, but I’ve never done anything like this either. You’re alone in Aruba. I’m alone in Aruba. Why waste the waning twilight?”
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A Thin Line Her finger never left his body as she completed the circle and returned to gaze into his eyes. She licked his chest above the V in his T‐ shirt. “Yum. You taste good.” His senses went into overload. Pure desire shot in a red haze to his groin. Images of things he’d never done with his wife, but fantasized about, flew through his mind. Should he really do this? His breath stopped at the thought of her hot, wet lips closing around him. A tremble wracked his body, and he nearly came at the thought. She swiped her top lip with her tongue, and his erection surged. Her scent washed over him, crisp, like a fresh ocean breeze, and his cock throbbed. With his hands on her hips, he dipped his head until his mouth covered hers, tongue probing deep. He could taste the heat of need radiating from her, and it stirred his own to a near whirl of lust. She arched backward as his lips traced a path down her face, to her neck, across her collarbone, to her breasts. Her fist buried itself in his hair while his hands moved to grasp the lush flesh, lifting them to provide better access. He flicked each swollen nipple, one after the other, then took longer suckles before he seized one between his lips and raked his tongue back and forth across the tip. This was what he’d wanted since the moment he saw her dive into the water. So, he took his time and indulged himself, alternating from one breast to the other. He stopped, his hands now at her waist, his chest heaving. “I don’t even know your name.” Her own breath labored, she gasped, then said, “Melodie.” “Melodie. Music to my ears.” They both laughed as Sam walked her back to the towel. He dropped to his knees, her breasts now perfectly level with his lips. She arched her back and forced her nipple between his teeth. He lapped at her, and then moved down to her navel. “Oh, my God, you taste so good. Salty. Sweet. Delicious.” Sam’s body was screaming for him to hurry, but his mind fought against it. He wanted to take his time. Something in her response told him that she’d appreciate every slow flick of his tongue and plunge of his cock.
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Lyric James He returned to her breasts and buried himself in the valley of her delicious cleavage. He feathered, lapped, and licked the ocean wetness still on her skin. “Oh, goodness, Sam, I’m going to collapse.” “Then come down, my sweet Melodie,” he said as she lowered herself on the towel. Her mouth beckoned him, so he devoured her lips again. They were soft, but fleshy, and they seemed to be burning with heat. She ran her hands through his hair, raking her nails across his shoulders, down his back, grinding herself against him. He slid a hand down the silken skin of her belly until he reached the curls at the top of her thighs. She was swollen and hot, her clitoris a taut distended coil under his fingers. He moved his thumb over it and felt a shiver run through her before he penetrated her with his finger. “You’re so wet,” he murmured with a moan. “I’ve been wet ever since I saw you in the hotel lobby.” She gasped and pressed upward as he plunged a second finger into her hot flesh. He had to taste her. The anticipation of her flavor made him lightheaded. When his mouth closed over her sensitized, delicate folds, she stiffened before her legs fell open. As he pulled her clit into his mouth, he suckled and nipped, reveling in her essence. Her hips lifted to meet his seeking tongue, and her hands held his head against her. He drove her to the edge, again and again, as soft moans escaped from her lips. He pulled back only when he felt her near climax. “Oh, shit. You’re killing me. Don’t stop. Don’t stop,” she begged. At that moment, Melodie knew she would never get enough of his gorgeous mouth on her body. She wasn’t sure if putting off sex for her career had been the best idea or not. Instantaneous combustion came to mind as he licked her with slow drags of his tongue combined with lazy circles that had her pressing her heels into the sand in desperation. He paused every so often to dip his tongue inside her. His attention was thorough. The man was an aficionado, taking time to enjoy himself, and to indulge her. She couldn’t help but whimper.
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A Thin Line “Oh, my God, Sam, don’t stop. I need…I want…” His tongue moved higher, pulling her clit into his mouth. Sucking voraciously he flicked his tongue across the exposed tip of her clit. She didn’t even know this man, but the mere sight of him made her audacious and too wild for her own good. And right now, reckless was how she felt. Good girl Melodie was taking the day off. “You are wearing too many clothes,” she said as she slid her hands under his T‐shirt, lifting it over his head and tossing it aside. Meeting his hungry gaze, she traced a path across his powerfully built chest with her tongue. Sam groaned his approval when she skimmed her hands down to the enormous bulge pressed against his shorts. Common sense reared its ugly head. Protection. They needed it. She freely admitted to wanting to be a bad girl for the day, but she wasn’t stupid. “Please, tell me you have a condom.” Desperation seemed to spur him on. He scrambled for his pants, pulled a condom out of his wallet, and sheathed himself in one fluid motion. On his knees, he lifted her legs, spread them wide, and ran the swollen head of his penis sensuously up and down her slick, wet folds until she was writhing beneath him. “Inside me. Inside!” Desire slammed into her with the force of a speeding locomotive when he entered her. As he slid his hands under her ass and tilted her upward, she dug her nails into the tightly corded muscles of his back. She closed her eyes and began to raise and lower her hips with long, leisurely thrusts, wanting to prolong the fuck. She felt his cock, hard and thick, pulsing inside her pussy with a force that made breathing almost impossible. It felt so amazing she never wanted him to stop. “Fuck me, Sam.” She moaned. “Harder. Oh, God. So good. So damn good.” “Melodie...Melodie. Oh, sweet Jesus. It’s been so long.” Gasping with pleasure, she pushed steadily forward until she felt his testicles slapping against her ass. The flood of feelings was
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Lyric James overwhelming. They’d found the sweet, gratifying, natural rhythm of lovers. She drove against him and fought to hold her approaching climax at bay, but he’d reached the end of his endurance. Growling softly against her lips, he fucked her hard and furiously, coating his cock with her juices. He shot his cock deep into her, rammed her hard, and the world exploded around her in a dizzying cloud of ecstasy. Soon after, he moaned, came, and collapsed on top of her, breathless from the force of his release. They clung together, both panting for air. He eased off of her and rolled onto his back, pulling her on top of him. “That was incredible,” he said, kissing her temple. She smiled against his shoulder and laughed. “Yes, I most definitely agree.” Sam cradled her in his arms, one hand lazily stroking her breast. “Do you think anyone has ever died from too much sex?” he asked. He slid his hand down her body to caress her tender clit, soothe the lingering throb. Melodie forced her concentration to his question. He couldn’t possibly want her again so soon. “I don’t think so.” He lifted his gaze and stared at her. “Great, because I think I’ll be spending a lot of time between these sweet thighs of yours for the rest of my vacation.” “A bit greedy, are we?” “I could spend the rest of my life buried inside that sweet pussy of yours.” A tingle of uneasiness crept into her mind, but she shrugged it off. She’d committed herself to one week of being loose and fancy‐free. Long‐ term was not on the agenda. But why not spend it enjoying the gorgeous man beside her. “Hmm. Is that a fact?” With utter thoroughness, he applied little kisses to each of her breasts. “Yep. But I think I need nourishment first. What do you say? Dinner?”
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A Thin Line She kissed him. A long, slow kiss and grinned. “With an invitation like that, how could I possibly say no?”
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Chapter Three At dinner, as she sat across from him nibbling on a perfect strawberry, she noticed he was watching her. “You’re staring again.” “I can’t help it. You’ve got a lot to stare at.” “Compliments will get you everywhere, Mr. Loyd.” She laughed. “Are you trying to seduce me?” She gave him a coy smile, leaned back in her chair, and crossed her legs. “Little ol’ me, seduce big, strong you? Never.” Sam laughed out loud at her flirtatious, rhetorical question. And as their eyes met, Melodie felt her stomach do somersaults of excitement. During dinner, their conversation came easily. By the meal’s end she knew his favorite color was blue and that he liked pancakes with sausage for breakfast. He loved to jog in the mornings. Every Saturday he woke up early to take his grandmother to the market to buy fresh vegetables. His secret indulgence was peanut‐butter cookies. Just like hers. “Come on. Let’s dance,” he said, as he reached for her arm and led her to the patio to dance. Two hours and three margaritas later, she was still in Sam’s arms, swaying to the slow sultry music. “This week, uh, between us...” Sam stumbled over his own words, but somehow, Melodie knew what he was trying to say. “I mean...we live on two different sides of the world.”
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A Thin Line She lifted an eyebrow. “Yes...and it’s highly unlikely we’ll ever see each other again....” He nodded. “Exactly. So what’re we doing?” Rubbing her breasts against him, she said, “Enjoying each other. We’re going to have pure, pleasurable, uncomplicated sex. No emotions. No involvement.” Melodie tried to keep her face a mask of disinterest. She couldn’t believe she’d not only agreed, but also suggested, she’d spend a week having a simple affair with a man she’d met only three hours ago. Her first foray with real sexual pleasure was with a complete stranger. Her infrequent dating habits on the island had never sent her body thrumming with this much excitement. Of course, she wasn’t dumb enough to expect anything to come of their week together. And he was right. They practically lived on opposite ends of the world. She stumbled slightly, and he pulled her body flush against his. “Sorry. I guess I’m a little dizzy.” She looked into his eyes, and her belly dipped. He lowered his lips to her ear. “I think it’s time for you to turn in.” “Oh, really?” “Oh, yes.” he said as he tugged her earlobe between his teeth. * * * * * Exhilaration whipped through Sam’s body as he sprinted down the beach. The waves of the ocean raced onto the sand, splashing his legs as he ran. Sunlight glinted off the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Yesterday was amazing, and he couldn’t believe his good luck. A leisurely walk on the beach, and he’d stumbled upon the most exciting woman he’d ever met. She’d walked out of the sea like a mermaid shedding her tail. Beautiful. Desirable. Enchanting. And willing. Willing to give him exactly what he wanted. No complications. No commitment. He was getting exactly what every man on earth dreamed
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Lyric James of—hot sex with no complicated relationship attached. No ‘Why haven’t you called me?’ No ‘When am I going to see you again?’ At the end of the week, it’ll be over with no hard feelings, just a simple ‘It was great knowing you.’ To top it off, she was gorgeous. She had the face of an angel and the body of a wanton sex goddess. It was a combination that would make any man beg for mercy. And he was pretty sure he’d be doing a lot of begging this week. His mind was awash in images of what they might do over the next few days. Sam was positive he was about to spend the week involved in a great love affair. No, not love. His wife had taught him love wasn’t worth it. That emotion was not in the cards for him. Not anymore. This week, he’d have a short, sweet tryst. And when it was over, he and Melodie would part as friends. * * * * * As she showered, Melodie didn’t know whether to be appalled by her lustful nature, or thrilled it had been set free. She was leaning toward thrilled. What she did sexually was no one’s business but her own, and Sam seemed more than happy to indulge her every fantasy. He was between her thighs when she awoke this morning. His tongue was almost hypnotic, arousing her to the point of climax within minutes and leading her to an orgasm that rocked her body like nothing before. Afterwards, he’d kissed her, and then left for a run on the beach. They had plans to meet for breakfast after his jog, and then go into town for a little sightseeing and duty‐free shopping. With hurried strokes, she began to towel dry. Anticipation swept through her body. What she’d discovered about herself the last month or so was that she needed to have an affair. The kind of no‐strings, no‐regret type of sex you only read about. After eight years of work, work, work, she was finally going to live a little, go wild, and have some fun.
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A Thin Line Grinning in self‐satisfied delight, she pulled out the hip‐hugger, blue jean shorts she’d bought in town last week. Not her usual wardrobe, but the sales clerk had convinced her to try them on, and when she saw herself in the mirror, she’d had to buy them. She added a little white halter top—minus a bra, and a pair of Keds. A simple, gold ankle bracelet and earrings completed her ensemble. Watching herself in the mirror, she swept her shoulder length hair up into a French twist. Since it would be getting hot later today, she didn’t apply heavy makeup. Instead, she brushed her eyelashes with black mascara and applied a touch of lip gloss. As she turned away from her mirror, she heard a knock at the door. She smiled knowing Sam was on the other side. “Hi.” She said, taking in his appearance. He wore a pair of khaki shorts and a navy blue T‐shirt. A diamond stud winked at her from his left ear. His clean, fresh, masculine scent wafted over her. “Hi, yourself. You ready?” “Sure. Just let me get my bag.” Melodie grabbed her small backpack purse and swung it over her shoulder. “Let’s go.” Sam ushered her out the door with his hand at the small of her back. A delicious tingle rippled up her spine. As they waited for the elevator, he pulled her into his arms and nuzzled her neck. “You smell good,” he said. His hot breath caressed her shoulder, distracting her from the dampness between her legs. “You sure you want to go sightseeing? We could spend the day in bed,” he murmured as he nibbled the skin just below her ear. Her body turned into a puddle of arousal as the elevator dinged its arrival. She swatted his hands away and stepped out of his embrace, shaking her head as she did so. “You’re bad.” “Bad to the bone. But it’s your fault.” She leaned back against the elevator wall as he pressed his length against her. “You’re so sexy. All I want to do is lick your sweet pussy. I want you to sit on my face and give me the soft, wet folds of your sweet lips.”
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Lyric James Her body quaked with need. No man had ever talked to her like this before. She was experiencing the kind of sexual excitement she’d never before known in her life. He brought his lips to hers. She was never going to make it through the afternoon if he kept talking to her like that. If they weren’t in an elevator, she’d gladly spread her legs and allow him to fuck her into oblivion. She wanted to come so badly, and her body hummed with anticipation. Instead, she pulled her lips from his. “Stop,” she said panting softly. “We’ll never make it out of the hotel if you don’t stop doing that.” “That’s the plan, angel. I’m trying to convince you to turn this damn elevator around so I can sink my cock deep in your...” The elevator swooshed open. Melodie skipped around him and stepped out, smiling over her shoulder. She noticed him adjusting his pants on his way out. When he caught up with her, he said, “I’m going to pay you back for that.” “For what?” She batted her eyelashes innocently. His gaze raked her from head to toe, penetrating right through her clothes. “The next time we go out, put on a long skirt and a long sleeved shirt.” “Are you kidding? It’s ninety degrees outside.” “Well, if you don’t want me attacking you on sight, you better figure something else out, because damn, woman, you look good enough to eat. Which is exactly what I want to do.” He emphasized by tucking a finger under the waistband of her shorts. She cast her eyes around to see if anyone was looking and grabbed his hand. “Stop that,” she said, even though her mind whirled with thoughts of hot, unbridled sex. The idea excited her. Tonight would be even better than last night. She couldn’t wait to have his hands, tongue, and cock on her. In her. “Let’s go...” He took her hand, pulling her toward the exit. “...before I throw you over my shoulder like a cave man.”
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Chapter Four As Sam ushered Melodie out the door, raw hunger pulsed through him. What an ass she had. A tiny waist, wide hips, and luscious breasts. The whole package punched him right in the libido. “I rented us a four‐ wheel drive for the day.” “Oh, cool. I thought we were just going to walk into town.” She was in for a surprise. He’d made special plans for them today. From what she’d told him, he was sure she didn’t get much in the romantic attention department from the guys she dated. Even if their fling was only going to last a week, he planned to make it something worth remembering. “Well, I figured we could go farther. They have this place called the Natural Bridge I thought we could check out.” She smiled and gave him a playful salute. “I’ve heard of it, but I’ve never been there. So lead the way, captain.” He good‐naturedly shoved her shoulder. “If you want me to lead, why didn’t you let me lead the way back upstairs?” “I’m beginning to think you’re a sexaholic,” she said grinning. Sam started the jeep and gunned the engine. “Yeah, well. I haven’t been to my meetings in a while, and a junkie needs his fix.” When they arrived, and parked, Melodie all but leaped from the car.
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Lyric James “Oh, my God, it’s beautiful.” She shielded her eyes from the sun. “This isn’t man made?” “Nope. From what I’ve read, it’s called the Natural Bridge because of years of relentless pounding by the Atlantic. It’s supposed to be twenty‐ five feet high and spans a hundred feet. That’s coral below.” She grabbed his hand. “Come on. Let’s walk across.” The picture in the brochure didn’t do it justice, Sam thought. On one side were miles and miles of turquoise sea, and on the other, a hillside of lush greenery. The water was so clear it looked like no one had ever discovered the lush haven. Below the bridge was a sandy, pristine beach that hosted a small hut—perfect for the surprise he had in mind for her. “Oh, look, there’s a beach. Too bad I didn’t bring my swimsuit.” He grinned mischievously at her. “That didn’t stop you the other day.” “No, it didn’t,” she remarked, winking at him. “Come on, let’s find a way down.” Sam scanned the area. “Over there.” He pointed and nodded his head. “There are some steps down to the sand. I need to stop by the car first.” She raised a perfectly arched brow. “What for?” “It’s a surprise.” “Oh...I love surprises.” Sam reached in the back of the truck and pulled out a blanket and the picnic basket he’d had the hotel make up for them. “Sam! A picnic? That’s so sweet.” “Yeah. That’s me. Mr. Sweet.” “Can you carry this bag?” He tossed her a bag that contained two towels and suntan lotion. Melodie reached out and caught it. “Sure.” Sam watched from behind as she carefully maneuvered the L‐ shaped steps. Her ass waved at him, and his dick saluted back. As soon as they hit the sand, Melodie dropped the bag, bent down and untied her tennis shoes, took them off and wiggled her toes in the sand. “Ah...heaven.”
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A Thin Line He tipped his head to the side and asked, “You love the beach, don’t you?” “Are you kidding? When I was a kid, my parents would take my sister and me to Florida every year. I loved the beach more than I loved Disney World. Melissa, my sister, of course, was the exact opposite. But we had so much fun. I think I’m going to miss this the most when I move to New York.” Sam watched her drag her foot back and forth over the hot sand, letting it caress her feet. He allowed his gaze to wander up over those delectable thighs she so expertly wrapped around him the night before. The hips that quivered under his touch and the breasts that begged for his touch. When she smiled, showing even, white teeth, something about that grin made his heart skip a beat. He was too afraid to define it. “My parents did some serious negotiating with us so we’d both get what we wanted. One half the day riding roller coasters and the other half on the beach.” They walked toward the hut. When they reached it, she took the blanket from him and flicked it out on the sand. “Oh, my goodness, look at the waves!” Melodie dropped everything and raced back to the water, calling over her shoulder as she ran. “Come on.” Her laughter and happiness was infectious. He’d never met anyone who could derive so much joy from something so simple. He kicked off his own shoes and followed her. The way he felt, he would’ve followed her anywhere. She waded into the water up to her knees and tilted her face toward the sky. “This feels wonderful.” They splashed and played around in the water for over an hour with no one around to disturb their fun. When they finished, both of them were soaking wet. “That was great.” She laughed. He plopped down on the blanket, pulling her with him. “You’re all wet.” “Duh. Yeah!” She swatted at his arm.
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Lyric James “I can’t possibly let you go back like this.” She leaned into him, straddling his legs. “Oh, really? What do you suppose I should do?” He nuzzled her neck and grazed a soft kiss against her chin. “I think you should take your clothes off and let them dry.” With her head tilted back, she commented, “Oh...but then I’d be naked.” Sam unfastened the bow of her halter‐top and flashed a naughty smile her way. “I know.” His lips trailed a path across her shoulders to the top of her breasts. He took the hem of her shirt and pulled it over her head, exposing her full, luscious mounds. Her head tipped back. “Oh, Sam.” Wrapping her legs around his waist, in one move, he twisted around so she was on her back and he on top. He slowly pulled her arms above her head, holding them there. Their tongues met in a swirling battle. Melodie was sexy as hell and, as she began undulating her hips beneath him, Sam knew he was lost. Taking off the shorts that hid her secret treasure was his immediate goal. She wiggled her hips to help him and then reached up to pull off his wet shirt. When he got on his knees to pull off his pants, she shoved him backwards and completed the task herself. She took his length in her hands. Sam lay back, enjoying the feel of her hands around his cock. Her gaze meandered over him and she smiled. “I’ve wanted to do this since yesterday.” Her tongue snaked out and licked the head of his penis. His shaft jumped, and he groaned with pleasure. When she gently bit down on his vulnerable flesh, a bolt of pure lust surged inside him. “Oh, shit.” Again, her sweet, pink tongue slipped out and caressed him. Slow, sensual licks. She closed her lips around the head and sucked him in inch by inch. “Suck it in deep, baby,” he managed to say through gasps. She released him, kissed the head and grinned. “You sure?” He gripped her head between his hands. “Hell, yeah.”
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A Thin Line She took him all the way in, until he could feel the back of her throat. Her tongue lapped around him as she pulled him in and out, in and out between her lush, full lips. “Damn, you have a sweet...oh.” He fucked her mouth, and was so close to coming, his balls swelled in anticipation. But he didn’t want to release himself just yet. He wanted to be inside her, between the satisfying folds of her hot, moist pussy. He was about to pull her up when her mouth left him, and he felt her tongue lathe his testicles. “Jesus,” he cried out, jerking his hips upward. She sucked one ball into the hot cavern of her mouth, and then moved to the other. He squeezed his eyes closed, unable to see, blinded by the need coursing through his body. When she opened his legs wider and moved lower, he thought he’d die from the pleasure. Moving lower still, she found unexplored territory, and when her tongue lapped at him, he shouted. “Melodie, baby. Shit, you’re gonna make me come.” Melodie had never felt such control over a man. She held his pleasure, literally, in the palm of her hands, and she loved it. She felt wicked and powerful all at the same time. His groans encouraged her, and she wanted to prolong the pleasure for him. “Do you like that, Sam? Do you like the feel of my mouth on you?” “Yes. Oh, my God, yes.” While she continued to lick him, she stroked the length of his cock from tip to hilt. She felt the tremble of his legs with each swipe. Seizing his hips, she took his cock in her mouth again and began to pump her lips over him, back and forth until he reared off the towel. “Shit. Stop. Stop. I want to come, baby, but I want to be deep inside that gorgeous pussy of yours.” Sam reared up, snatched a condom out of his pants, and covered himself. Then he turned her around, grasped her hips and took her from behind. In one deep plunge, he was inside her, pounding until his balls slapped against her. A whimper escaped her throat as he increased the erotic pressure.
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Lyric James It wasn’t long before her orgasm vibrated through her, rocking her to the core. Her pussy muscles closed about him, contracting almost painfully against his size. A sensual wave crested over her, followed by tremors of ecstasy. His orgasm followed soon after as he continued to pump, until he collapsed, taking her down with him. In short, labored gasps, he whispered, “Damn, woman. That was amazing.” Heat rose in her face, and she felt so embarrassed. She’d never done anything like that before. But being with Sam loosened all her inhibitions, and she felt like a wanton sex goddess, doling out pleasure as she saw fit. He pulled her into his arms, and she rested her head against his shoulder. She could feel his racing heartbeat under her hand. He wrapped his arms around her, and the next thing she knew, she was waking up to a setting sun. When her eyes opened, Sam was there. He watched her with a smile on his face as he caressed her hip with his fingers. “Hey, beautiful.” “Wow. How long have I been sleep?” “A while. You hungry?” “Famished.” While he laid out a sumptuous feast from the picnic basket Melodie wrapped herself in a towel. She plopped a juicy, red cherry in to her mouth. “This is terrific.” He poured a glass of red wine and handed it to her. “Glad you approve.” She regarded him thoughtfully as he chewed on a piece of bread. “So, what brings you to Aruba?” A flash of pain crossed his face so fast she must have imagined it. In a lowered voice he said, “Vacation mostly. Relaxation. A little work on the side maybe.” Melodie took a sip from her glass. “What do you do? Stop. Never mind. No specifics.” She felt like a fool. What did she think was going to happen between them? They’d confide in each other? Tell each other the deepest
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A Thin Line desires of their soul, then fall in love and...what? He’d move heaven and earth to be with her. Get a grip, Melodie. That is so not going to happen. This week was not about getting to know each other or starting a relationship. It was sex. Who cared if it was mind blowing, incredible sex? The kind she’d probably never experience again in her life. If that were so, why did she feel like telling him everything about her, and knowing every single thing about him? She did want to know one thing, though. Did she dare ask? Would he answer? Would he even tell her the truth? She watched him as he stood. He was fully clothed. Glancing around, she spotted her discarded— in pure lust and haste—dry clothes. Ask him. You know you’re dying to know. “Why are you in the honeymoon suite alone?” “Well, that’s a really long story”. Sam turned and walked to the water’s edge, letting the cool tide wash over his feet. The sun looked majestic over the sea. Its silken depths mysteriously turned from turquoise to emerald green, as if it were changing moods. After dressing, she joined him at the shore. He turned to her, and for a moment, they stared at each other, their silence broken only by the waves galloping onto the sand. “When I made arrangements to stay here, I was married.” “Oh.” “The day I gave my wife the tickets, she asked for a divorce. I was so shocked I never got around to canceling it.” One year ago to the date, Shelia had cooked him dinner, sat at the table and told him she wanted a divorce. His work and writing his book had kept him too busy, and she’d begun to spend her free time with someone else. At first, he’d been furious. But later, he’d thought about it and understood why. He almost told Melodie that he was a writer. “When I work, I guess I sometimes lose myself in it.” He became so engrossed in the lives of his characters—their relationships and their conflicts—he’d failed to
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Lyric James recognize the disintegration of his own. “My wife got tired of coming in second.” “How long were you married?” she asked quietly. He returned to the towel rumpled by their lovemaking and sat down. She joined him. “Two years. My career had just begun. It consumed me. I thought she understood. Obviously, she didn’t.” Sam thought he had the rest of his life for his marriage, but only a minimal amount of time to become a published author. For two years, he worked a nine‐to‐five job. When he came home, he went into his office and wrote. Until his fingers hurt, he wrote. He knew where he went wrong with his marriage. He never shared his writing with Shelia. He never let her know how important it was to him. She never got to know his characters. She didn’t fall in love with them the way he did. So she ended up finding someone else to occupy her time. He wasn’t angry anymore, but it still saddened him. Marriage was a mistake he’d never make again. Writing still consumed him, and he was sure there wasn’t another woman on earth who’d understand that. “I’m sorry.” In a low voice, he said, “It was my fault, not hers. I made a promise to her that I couldn’t keep. I didn’t love her the way she deserved to be loved.” “Maybe the two of you just weren’t meant to be together.” Sam had seen many beautiful women. Several had posed for the covers of his books, but Melodie’s soft brown eyes made his heart ache. Her creamy skin begged for his caress. The air thickened around them. The humidity rose as the sun set. Or was his temperature rising? He was having trouble catching his breath. Heaven help him, he wanted her again. All his senses alerted. Electricity sizzled between them. He knew he should say something. His very life was about words, but he couldn’t seem to form one coherent thought. Unruly strands of hair framed her beautiful face. He leaned toward her. She was like a magnet. She licked her full, ripe lips. Heat pooled low in his belly. His blood grew hot and heavy in his veins.
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A Thin Line No, Sam. Stop. Stop. Too much. You’re feeling too much. “You ready to head back?” Confusion flitted across her eyes. “Sure.” As they packed everything up, Sam mentally worked to control his libido. How could he want to be inside her again? He did, though. He wanted to climb back inside her and never come out again. What in the hell was happening to him? Why in the world did he tell her about his ex? He’d gotten personal, which was exactly what he wasn’t supposed to do. This was not supposed to happen. So why did his carefully thought out affair seem to be turning into the beginning of a relationship with shared memories and confided pasts? But he realized suddenly, that’s what he wanted. He wanted to know what her new job was in New York, her mother’s name, what she dreamed about, what she wished for. Her deepest desires. Get a grip, man.
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Lyric James
Chapter Five On his last day in Aruba, Sam was in the deepest pits of hell. Entranced and doomed. This week was supposed to be a simple, no‐ strings‐attached affair, but there was a thin line between lust and love. And he was on the wrong side of it feeling like a love struck idiot instead of a lustful conqueror. While the sun sank behind him in a hazy, red‐ orange glow, he watched Melodie laugh and talk to her friend, Tracey. Even though he knew they shared the same passion for peanut butter cookies late at night before going to bed and that she was moving to a new city, they hadn’t exchanged addresses or phone numbers. That wasn’t what this week was supposed to be about. It was supposed to be easy and uncomplicated. No involvement. No emotions. So why did he feel like his heart was about to be wrenched from his chest? The lines between sex and love had become blurred. They weren’t supposed to see each other tonight. It was the last night in Aruba for both of them. When he’d suggested, hoping like hell she wouldn’t agree, that the previous night would be their last to spend together, she’d said okay. Now he stood behind a damn potted plant watching her in secret. He ached to go to her and tell her how he felt, but she’d think him the fool. People don’t fall in love in less than a week. He wasn’t even sure it was love, but given half the chance, maybe it could be. His fear of past failure kept him rooted to the spot.
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A Thin Line With her easy laugh and carefree smile, she was unpretentious in every way. He couldn’t get enough of her. Lying in his bed last night, he wondered if their relationship could extend past the bright shores of the Caribbean. She made him feel content with his life, but still ravenous for her. When he’d wanted time alone to write, she’d given him space. And when he found her in her favorite spot on the beach, she welcomed him into her arms. They’d share a laugh or a swim, but she never pressured him for his time. Would that change if a relationship did begin between them? Would she become like his wife, quiet in her dislike and unhappiness, until leaving him was the only choice she had? Since the first kiss, the sizzle of expectancy had danced between them. He hadn’t expected to find romance on this trip. He stared, mesmerized by the sway of her hips beneath the white sarong she wore, swirling around her long, luscious legs. Go back to your room, Sam. Now...before you make a complete, utter dope of yourself. * * * * * Melodie wrestled with pangs of sadness as thoughts of Sam tried to transcend her common sense. She’d gone and fallen head‐over‐ something...with Sam. Lust? Yes. Like? Yes. Love? Questionable. Whatever she was feeling, her soul ached. She couldn’t move two steps before the memory of Sam invaded her very being. This was her last night in Aruba. She was supposed to be enjoying it with her best friend and instead, she felt like a dug‐up corpse. In the deepest recesses of her mind, she heard Tracey. “Hello? Melodie? Hello?” She snapped her fingers in front of Melodie’s face. “Oh, my, you’ve got it bad, girlfriend.” Melodie’s attention returned instantly. “What are you talking about?” “You have it bad for him, don’t you?”
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Lyric James She blew a wisp of hair out of her face. “No, I don’t.” “You haven’t heard a word I’ve said in the last five minutes. You’ve been looking around like you expect him to walk in at any minute.” “I have?” she asked sorrowfully. “Yes, you have. Why don’t you just tell him how you feel?” Melodie looked at Tracey like she’d grown two heads. “I don’t think so.” Tracey lifted an eyebrow at her. “Why not?” “Because...because...that’s not what this week was supposed to be about. Remember? Sex. That’s it. No...” She couldn’t even say it. “No...nothing else. Nothing.” “Then why do you look unhappy? You are about to start an exciting new chapter in your life, and you look like you lost your best friend.” Melodie straightened in her chair, appalled that her emotions were so clearly displayed. “I’ll get over it.” “Okay. You’ll get over it. Maybe. Do you want to get over it and never know if you two could’ve been something, or get over it and know you at least told him how you feel?” Melodie was a good girl. She was sensible. She’d worked for the same company for eight years. She’d been on a fast track to the top from the minute she was hired. That kind of hard work took discipline. Now, she wasn’t sure how she’d survive her one‐week affair with Sam. He wouldn’t be easily forgotten. But what if he was feeling the same way she did? What if he was just as scared of rejection as she was? Why didn’t he come to her, damn it, and save her from this pain? She’d go to his room and tell him goodbye. That’s what she’d do. Give him one last chance to tell her how he felt, and if he didn’t, well, shit.... So be it. With a sigh of resignation, she rose from her chair, her decision made. “Okay, I’ll go see him. But I’m not promising anything.” Tracy waved her off. “Whatever. Just go.”
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A Thin Line Moments later, she stood outside Sam’s door, her fist raised. Knock on the door, dummy. Just knock. She took a deep breath and tapped on the door. It opened almost immediately, as if he’d been expecting her. “Hi.” He stood in the doorway looking as amazing as ever in his linen pants and shirt with his casual sandals. “Hi.” He said and stepped to the side. “Come on in.” The scent of fresh flowers and spicy candles filled the room. Romantic music floated in from outside, blending softly with the breeze that whispered through the open doors. Out on the balcony, the table was set for one with expensive crystal and china. She walked out to the balcony, fingering the white tablecloth as she passed by, wishing it were set for two. She forced a smile and turned around. “You all packed?” He leaned against the doorframe with a glass of wine in his hand. He nodded. “Yeah. You?” “Yeah.” Silence. It was deafening. Say something. But he didn’t. He took a swig from the bottle, and she watched his throat constrict when he swallowed. He sat the bottle down and walked toward her, looking at her, as if memorizing her every feature. “I just came to say goodbye,” she whispered. Melodie didn’t know what happened. One minute she was gazing into the liquid depths of his eyes, and the next she was in his arms, his mouth devouring hers. Her body stiffened, then relaxed. Any thought of denying him left her mind. His mouth was hot and sweet. He made her feel as if she’d had three glasses of wine. His light, musky scent mixed with the fresh sea air and intoxicated her. His tongue entered her mouth, swirling like smoke. Waves of desire coiled in her belly. All‐consuming flames ignited in her pussy, and she moaned. He wrapped his fingers in her hair, holding her in place, as if she wanted to be anywhere but in his arms. The distant sound of a saxophone
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Lyric James brought her back to reality. They were on the balcony where other people could see. He was delicious, but they had to stop before they entertained the crowd with more than just music. She pulled her mouth away from his, her knees about to give way. She lowered her arms to her side, and he untangled his fingers from her hair. “Melodie,” he murmured in a low, sexy drawl. “Have dinner with me tonight? It’s our last night. Let’s spend it together.” Any attempt to deny the fact he was beginning to make her feel things she’d never feel again shriveled up inside her. “Okay.” * * * * * After dinner, Sam rolled the serving cart into the hallway. Melodie stood half inside and outside on the terrace. Say something, Sam. Say something. Anything. He wanted to speak but he couldn’t find the right words. If she had feelings for him, she’d say it. Wouldn’t she? Women always told men how they felt. When they loved a man, they said it. Didn’t they? She flicked her tongue over her bottom lip. Oh, God. He reached her in three steps. “You’re driving me crazy,” he muttered against her mouth. “I don’t have that kind of power.” The music outside changed from fast reggae to a slow and jazzy tune, and he all but yanked her in his arms. “You underestimate yourself.” He kissed her face and neck. “Stay with me tonight. Let me love you.” “Yes. Oh, Sam. Yes.” Her fingers flexed, tangling in his hair, holding his head in place. When his tongue delved inside her mouth, her whole being caught fire, and a familiar tightening began in her belly. She trembled with desire. He rubbed his hands up and down her arms. “Are you cold?” “No. I’m hot. So hot.”
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A Thin Line In the warm, strong circle of his arms, she felt the heavy beat of his heart. Or was it hers? They were so close, she couldn’t tell. Need surged inside her. She arched against him. Sam stepped backward into the room, pulling her with him, and time seemed to stop between them. He pulled her knit top up and over her head. She didn’t have on a bra. Goose bumps popped up on her arms. Her nipples beaded, reaching out to him. He tugged the bow at her hip loose, and her skirt unraveled around her legs. She’d never felt so exposed. Not even on the beach when she didn’t even know him and anyone could’ve discovered them. His mouth traveled down her throat to her chest. Her eyelids fluttered close. He took one nipple between his fingers, while his lips closed over the other. A delicious combination of surprise and longing coursed through her. She could have stopped him, but the feelings racing through her would not be denied. Sam skimmed one of his hands up her leg to her panties. Her black lace thong winked at him from between her cheeks. His fingers slid into her pussy, and he moaned. “I want you, Melodie. All of you.” The expression of joy on her face shifted to one of need. “I need you. Now, Sam. I need you.” While he freed his arms from his shirt and took off his pants, she removed her panties, and stood before him glorious, and stunning in her nudity. He took her hand and led her to the bedroom. Lust heated his blood. For a second, her brows furrowed in apparent doubt, and he pulled her to him for a slow, sensuous kiss. The tension vanished from around her eyes. “Stay right here. Don’t move.” Sam went back in the living room and scoured the floor for his pants, reached inside and pulled out protection. He quickly sheathed himself. When he joined her at the edge of the bed, he realized heʹd never seen a more beautiful sight, a woman who responded to him the way she did. A soft moan escaped her lips when he reached down and stroked her dripping pussy, sliding his fingers in and out.
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Lyric James “Tell me what you want, baby.” Eagerly, Melodie rubbed against his hand. He reached up with his thumb and circled her clit. “You, Sam. I want you.” He withdrew his fingers and replaced them with his cock. The look in his eyes was wild and hungry. She wanted him fully inside her—now. A wild flash of pleasure raced through her body as he pulsed in her. She squeezed her cunt around him. It took all her willpower to keep herself from coming. Her breathing quickened as she tried to control the mounting pleasure. His eyes were lit with passionate desire. He took her heart, her mind, and her soul. “Melodie,” he said on a groan, his voice thick with yearning. He made love to her with intense gentleness, seducing every breathless response. He kissed her mouth, her throat, and caressed her breasts. When he thrust inside her body, each one of her nerve endings flamed to life. Their bodies, joined in unison, were like the sun and the moon, co‐existing to balance the earth and tides. They were meant to be together, forever. With every thrust, he pushed her to the edge of ecstasy. Melodie grasped the headboard with her hands and held tight, gasping. Sam took both her breasts in his hands, squeezed them together and lathed them. Coupled with the delicious vibrations of his cock ramming hard against her, she felt the first stirrings of her orgasm. “You ready to come? You ready to soak my dick with your flowing juices?” Incapable of speech, she could only nod and shudder as the first wave rocked her. She pushed against his cock, shaking her head from side to side, not wanting to end her flood of bliss. At the same time, Sam grunted and slammed against her, and she felt the first gush of his cum surge out of him. Afterward, she clung to him, shaken by her response. They couldn’t get enough of each other. They made love, again and again, as if
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A Thin Line she was Cinderella and at the stroke of midnight, she’d disappear, like a wisp in the wind. When they finally slept, they remained wrapped in each other’s arms. Hours later, Melodie awoke. She reached for Sam, but only found empty space. She heard voices. Angry voices. A male and a female. Tightness clenched her throat as she eased toward the door and opened it. She peeked through the small slit. The female’s back was to her. The woman reached for Sam, but he backed away. She heard the woman say, “Sam, I love you.” A wave of pain and despair clutched Melodie’s heart. She choked back a sob. “I have to get out of here,” she whispered. Thank goodness, the room had two exits. Through a haze of tears, she put on her clothes, and slipped out the bedroom door.
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Lyric James
Chapter Six One Month Later. Melodie picked up the paper and read the ad. Award Winning Author Samantha Lloyd Book Signing Walden Books Friday, June 6, 2006, 6:00 PM Samantha Lloyd was her favorite author, so she read the accompanying article. The recluse writer was finally going to reveal her identity. Melodie looked at the clock on her desk. If she left at five‐thirty, she’d make it. She wove her car through the packed mall parking lot and finally found a spot in the back. It would be a bit of a walk. She looked down at her three‐inch heels. “I should’ve changed shoes.” At the bookstore, she saw a crowd already forming. “Dang. I guess I’m not the only fan.” She made her way through the entrance and up to the second floor. She squeezed past the other people waiting and found a spot against the wall. Listening to others in the crowd, she was anxious to meet the eccentric writer. Books lined the walls. On the table at the front of the room, a pile of the author’s novels waited for purchase and personalized autographs. What she assumed was the storeowner or manager came forward. “Ladies and gentleman, please welcome Samantha Lloyd.”
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A Thin Line A figure stepped out of the shadows. Gasps and shouts of surprise filled Melodie’s ears. There was a flurry of activity. Melodie’s eyes widened in surprise. A tall, dark, handsome man, entirely too familiar, stood at the front of the crowd. A whisper escaped from her throat. “Sam.” * * * * * Sam Loyd climbed the steps to the small platform as the author, Samantha Lloyd, the name he used to mask his identity for the past few years. Looking out at the crowd, he saw a mixture of surprise and curiosity on the faces of the fans that expected a woman. Both emotions were understandable. In the last few weeks, his book had soared up the best selling lists. He, his editor, and publicist had worked hard to keep his identity a secret, until he was ready. After he received a five‐book deal, he’d quit his nine‐to‐five job and devoted all his time to writing. He’d succeeded. But his personal life had suffered. He’d lost his wife and his mermaid out of the sea. Thoughts of Melodie still plagued him. He’d arranged for his first book signing to be in New York hoping he could find her. “I want to thank all of you for coming. I know you expected to see a woman standing here. My name is Sam Loyd. Samantha Lloyd is the pen name I created when my writing career began.” Melodie heard none of his words. She wished the books on the walls could swallow her so she could melt away into their numbered pages. The room was too crowded for her to ease away so she stood behind someone and waited for his speech to end. When the book signing began, she’d slip out. It was Sam. Her Sam. No. His wife’s. She cringed. The week they’d shared haunted her dreams, haunted her thoughts. She’d told herself that she’d never return to Aruba again because the memories were too painful. Their no‐strings‐attached affair, an affair that’d began with uncontrollable lust, became something else. Love. Her heart ached when she thought of it. She never knew that there was such a thin line between lust and love.
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Lyric James * * * * * “I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you’ve come here to meet the real me. Thank you for buying my novel and loving my characters as much as I do.” He automatically scanned the crowd as he spoke. His gaze froze on the way the light glinted on a woman’s hair. The way the shadow caressed her cheek. His heart stopped. His soul hesitated. His mind traveled back to an evening on a beach and a sable‐haired goddess who’d stolen his heart. Had he found her? He blinked. It couldn’t be her. A woman moved, and there she was. His Melodie. The sweet song that lulled him to sleep at night. She glanced his way, and clear, brown eyes widened in surprise. She ran. Crap. With the crowd pressing in on him, not to mention his complete surprise, he couldnʹt move to run after her. “Melodie, stop! Wait.” He rounded the podium. His editor grabbed his arm and pulled him back. “Sam, you have a hundred women standing in front of you—” “I don’t care.” His eyes flashed with anger. He stepped around the table stacked with waiting books. His books. But he didn’t care. He couldn’t let her disappear out of his life again. “That lady in the black dress. Someone stop her,” he yelled. Several people in the crowd wore expressions of shock. Others whispered behind their hands. The voices that floated around him as he pressed through the crowd wondered what was going on. He heard a female voice. “Hey, lady. Wait.” Then he heard her, that musical voice that’d preoccupied his dreams at night. “No. Stop. Let me go.” “Melodie, don’t go. Please.” Even to his own ears he sounded desperate. Sam reached the door and took her hand before she escaped into the mall. She jerked back and crossed her arms.
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A Thin Line “Please go away,” she whispered. “Just pretend you didn’t see me.” “I can’t do that. We have to talk.” He radiated a resolve that made her want to escape and hide. Her stomach tightened, and she shook her head. “We have nothing to talk about.” His eyes filled with anguish. “Melodie, please…. Why didn’t you say goodbye? I looked for you all over the hotel, but you’d already checked out.” It took a moment for her to find her vocal chords. “Goodbye? Goodbye? Don’t you think that would’ve been a bit awkward with your wife in the room?” All the voices in the room hushed. Melodie felt like a freshman on the first day of school. Her skirt was tucked in her panties and, as she walked by, people pointed and stared. “My ex‐wife,” he said, stepping toward her. Melodie’s pulse hammered in her head. Her heart was breaking all over again. Why did he come here? “She obviously wanted you back. That’s why she was there. I didn’t think it was prudent for me to walk out of the bedroom after I heard her tell you that she still loved you.” He reached out and tentatively sifted his fingers through her hair. She couldn’t produce a word with him so close. “But I didn’t love her. I’d already started to fall in love with someone else.” “You did?” she asked in a voice she wished wasn’t so shaky. “Yes. You, Melodie. I was going to tell you that morning, but she showed up and ruined it.” She looked at him doubtfully and bit her lip. “You don’t even know me.” “I know you’re everything I want. That week we spent in Aruba was the best I’d ever felt in my life. I was able to write and be with you without pressure or guilt of neglecting you.” As he spoke, the crowd seemed to vanish. Only she and Sam existed in that exact moment in time. Melodie felt the sting of tears
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Lyric James welling in her eyes. She swallowed despite the lump in her throat. “You mean, you didn’t get back together with your wife?” “No. I sent her home. But when I came back, you were gone. Your friend Tracey wasn’t at work. I realized I didn’t even know your last name. I had no way to find you. That’s one of the reasons I changed my first book signing so it would be in New York. My next stop was going to be the Marriott corporate offices. I wasn’t going to leave that building until I saw you.” Melodie glanced at the expectant crowd around them. They’d come to a book signing, but got a soap opera instead. “You have fans waiting.” A voice out of the crowd yelled, “That’s okay honey. We can wait.” She dipped her head and smiled. “What about all that stuff we agreed about? No complications. No emotions.” “Are you telling me you weren’t falling in love with me, too?” He took her hands and pulled her close. “Look, I know we don’t know each other that well, but I’m willing to give us a chance if you are.” Melodie couldn’t deny it. She had begun to fall in love with him, until his wife’s surprise visit left her emotionally whipped. The risk of succumbing to her feelings for Sam and hearing his wife’s confession of love caused her to freeze in her susceptible tracks. She couldn’t deal with it. Still, his memory was fresh, and he appeared in her dreams night after night. Could they make it? Sam inched his face down and hesitantly kissed her. Struck by the powerful sensations it evoked, she clung to him. She heard the crowd oohing and ahhing. “We live on different sides of the United States.” “As long as I have you in my life, Melodie, I can write anywhere.”
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A Thin Line
Author Bio Lyric credits her mother for her love of reading. (Thanks, Mom. ☺) She spent her early childhood trying to pry romance novels off her motherʹs face. One day, she got so fed up with it, she asked her mother to tell her about the book she was reading. She was so enthralled, she took that book from her mother, read it in one sitting, and has been hooked ever since. She refuses to tell anyone how long ago that was. As a youth, she wanted to be a doctor, dentist, nurse, teacher, or physical therapist. Instead, she ended up working for a health insurance company, a visiting nurse association, a therapy center for children, and a television station. After finally deciding what she wanted to be when she grew up, she decided to be a librarian. For the past two years, Lyric has spent her days with 13‐14 year olds in a middle school library. Lyric still felt something was missing. After surfing the Web and finding eHarlequin, she knew it was time for her to finally pick up that pen…um, keyboard...and start to write. In 2003, her first manuscript…after several re‐writes of chapter 1…began. Lyric’s private book collection includes her favorite authors: Julia Quinn, Amanda Quick, Nora Roberts, Mia Zachary, Jodi Lynn Copeland, Jaci Burton, E. Lynn Harris, Dr. Suess, Barbara Park, Eoin Colfer, Jenny Nimmo, Lemony Snickett, J.K. Rowling, and John Grisham. She lives in the southern United States with her husband, and three children.
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Lyric James Also Available from Cobblestone Press
Bargain by Starlight by Stella & Audra Price © 2006 Prologue “That’s right. She’s the one with the white blonde hair. Now, Carlo, I don’t want her harmed. Clean her up, get her showered, do what you have to, and get her to the house, dressed and sober.” He listened to the voice on the other end of his cell phone. “Yes, the Succubus tea I procured. It will keep her lucid and dull the cravings. And don’t tell Drake what you’re doing, Carlo; I mean it.” He listened once again and smiled. “And I thank you, Carlo. We shall see what happens after she gets to the house.” He hung up and sighed, settling in to the oxblood chair behind the large expanse of ebony desk that dominated the room. As the premiere pimp of Russia, Dimitri had the world at his feet. The blonde sprite would fit in perfectly, if she would cooperate. He was considering doing something he had yet to do in the eons of his immortal existence, and it scared him. He got up off the chair and walked to the window of the study, looking out onto the grounds that surrounded his mansion. White with new fallen snow, as far as the eye could see. The evening was a good one for a change, and he knew that if his plans happened the way he wanted, the change he’d been looking for would become a reality.
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A Thin Line Tonight would be the first night he would actually meet her, speak to her, not just keep an eye on her from afar, and he was nervous as hell, which was a new experience for him. As a pimp, he was used to getting his way and, since she was a working girl, she would play the part well to get paid. The trick was to get past that façade and down to the real woman he knew was there. Would she bargain? Probably. They all did in the end, but he knew she wouldn’t be satisfied with the standard, and that’s why he wanted her. He looked at his watch and smiled. “Just a few more hours,” he said. Intent on getting ready, he turned to leave the study, crossing the hallway to his bedroom.
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