Catch and Release

Blessed 2

Catch and Release Trent thinks he’s going crazy when an unseen force starts haunting and taunting him, pushing him closer to Rain every day. He knows he should leave her alone. The past torments him almost daily. She deserves better, but he couldn’t resist the fierce urge to be near her. Rain wants to slap herself silly for lusting after an off-limits man. Correction—off-limits sex-god. Dating friend’s kin is a big no-no. Too bad Trent is her best friend’s brother-in-law. While Rain fights her feelings, a mysterious force keeps whispering to her heart, "he’s the one." As Rain Ramsey and Trent Cortino fight their destiny, the blessing on the Cortino family kicks into gear and makes sure the couple gets the message. From whispered words in their ears and hearts to Trent’s own personal rain cloud, the blessing won’t stop until its job is done. Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal Length: 39,920 words

CATCH AND RELEASE Blessed 2

Dakota Dawn

EROTIC ROMANCE

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

ABOUT THE E-BOOK YOU HAVE PURCHASED: Your non-refundable purchase of this e-book allows you to only ONE LEGAL copy for your own personal reading on your own personal computer or device. You do not have resell or distribution rights without the prior written permission of both the publisher and the copyright owner of this book. This book cannot be copied in any format, sold, or otherwise transferred from your computer to another through upload to a file sharing peer to peer program, for free or for a fee, or as a prize in any contest. Such action is illegal and in violation of the U.S. Copyright Law. Distribution of this e-book, in whole or in part, online, offline, in print or in any way or any other method currently known or yet to be invented, is forbidden. If you do not want this book anymore, you must delete it from your computer. WARNING: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. If you find a Siren-BookStrand e-book being sold or shared illegally, please let us know at [email protected]

A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Erotic Romance

CATCH AND RELEASE Copyright © 2011 by Dakota Dawn E-book ISBN: 1-61034-792-7 First E-book Publication: September 2011 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All cover art and logo copyright © 2011 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of Catch and Release by Dakota Dawn from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Dakota Dawn’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Dawn’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION To my family, of course. Their humor keeps me going. I’d also like to thank all the people who bought this book. I hope it brings you great joy. A romantic rollercoaster is always the best ride, and thank goodness it can be ridden over and over again! To Lucas Braly for the tattoo info and for doing an awesome job on my tattoo!

CATCH AND RELEASE Blessed 2 DAKOTA DAWN Copyright © 2011

Chapter One Nice. Rain Elian Ramsey ran her hand lovingly across the massive hand-carved bedpost. Some major loving could go on in this bed. Sweeping her eyes around the room, she acknowledged the furniture in this store was some of the best she’d ever seen. Now all she had to do was woo the owner into giving her a good price. One of her family’s businesses sold furniture that was unique and limited. Their customers didn’t want to walk into anyone else’s home and find a copy of their furniture. A muffled squeal drew Rain’s attention to a couple four beds over. The young man picked the young woman up and tossed her onto the bed. She giggled when he slowly crawled up between her legs. Rain squirmed as she watched him randomly kiss her body as he worked his way up and over her. Rain was mesmerized by the couple. The man passionately kissed the woman. His hips rocked into the junction of her spread thighs. She moaned and wrapped her legs around his hips. Moisture dampened Rain’s panties. She’d love to find a caring, passionate man to do that to her. Hearing some new customers

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entering the store, Rain pulled her eyes away from the gyrating couple. Who knew watching a hot couple in person could be so titillating? Strolling over to the man behind the counter, she asked, “Is the owner in?” “No. He’ll be back tomorrow morning. Is there anything I can do for you?” the young man asked in a bored voice. Knowing she wouldn’t get anywhere with him, Rain asked, “What’s the owner’s name?” “Zito Marino. Why do you ask?” The young man looked at her suspiciously. “My family owns a furniture store, and I’m interested in a few of his pieces. I’ll come back tomorrow morning.” With that said, Rain turned and left the store. Spotting a café two businesses down, Rain headed toward it. Taking a seat at one of the outdoor tables, she took out her notepad and wrote down Zito Marino’s name and the address of his business. A waitress came by and took her drink order. Rain went back to the list of shops she’d already gone into and those she still needed to go to. A grin curled her lips. If she was lucky, she’d be treated to another show. She was in Italy for her friend’s wedding. She’d shown up two weeks early so she could do some business while she was here. So far everything was going smoothly. The waitress returned with her drink then moved on to another table. Rain took a drink of her lemonade and looked out at the waves that wrinkled the Bay of Naples. The wind blew in from the bay, picking up strands of her strawberry-blonde hair. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the feel of the wind in her face. “Don’t you know a tourist should never close their eyes?” Rain’s eyes flew open then widened. A sex god was sitting at her table. He must have had ninja skills because she hadn’t even felt him

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sit down. Her blue eyes took in his fiery green eyes. A boyish smile crossed his lips and brought out the most amazing dimples. The hottie wanted to play. She was in the mood to humor him. “If a tourist can’t shut their eyes, how are they supposed to sleep?” He smiled as he answered her question. “With a protector, of course.” Her lips twitched, and with great effort she held back the laughter bubbling up inside her. “And where would I find one of those?” His eyes gleamed mischievously. “I just happen to be one.” Rain took a drink of her lemonade then pinned him with her serious, business, give me your best deal stare. “How do I know you’re not a thief who is trying to find out where I’m staying so you can steal from me the second I fall asleep?” He stared into her eyes. His tone was wickedly naughty. “You could use me as a mattress.” Laughter burst from Rain’s lips. “You are a smooth one—But, if I sleep on top of you, how could you protect me from thieves? I’m no lightweight. I may crush you. At the very least my weight would put your arms to sleep. Therefore making it impossible for you to protect me from villains.” His eyes slashed down her body. “To me you are a lightweight, a very curvy, delicious-looking lightweight. It would be an honor to protect you while you slept in my arms.” Once again laughter poured from her mouth. “I like you. You’re smooth and witty.” His green eyes strayed to her lips. “Where are you staying?” The scrumptious male leaned back in his chair and studied her with shocking intensity. Rain ignored the sudden moistening of her panties. “Nowhere. I sleep on this terrace under this table every night. So you see, I have no need of a protector because I have nothing of value to steal.”

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Hot eyes scorched over her fuller lower lip. “You have much value. It would be a crime for such a beauty as yourself to sleep under this table. Would you like me to find you a hotel room?” Rain looked at her watch. “That’s sweet, but not necessary. I have a room with a protector up front.” After drinking the last of her drink, she looked at her list then back at the handsome man sitting across from her. “It was nice to meet you, but I have to get back to work.” The tall, godlike male looked pained. “Where do you work?” “All over the world.” With a wink, Rain stood and walked away. She frowned at the heavy feeling that pressed down on her heart. What was wrong with her? Why did she feel like she was leaving a part of herself behind? Forcing one foot in front of the other, she went to the next shop on her list. **** Trent watched her walk away with a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. A strange need to follow her urged him to his feet. Just as he stood, his phone rang. Looking down, he saw it was the hotel. He had to answer it. The family business was weighing heavily on his libido at this moment. “Cortino.” “Trent, we need you back at the hotel. A large group of women just showed up for the women’s convention, and their president would like to speak to you.” A groan rumbled from Trent’s throat as he watched the blue-eyed goddess walk down the sidewalk and into a business. The swing of her hips had his dick standing at attention. He looked at his phone and cursed silently. The manager sounded like he really needed Trent to come back to the hotel. “I’ll be there in a few minutes.” Looking in the direction of the hotel, Trent tried to force himself to head that way, but his feet followed the path that led to the woman. Moving quickly, he entered the store she had gone into.

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He froze when he saw her running her hand reverently over a hand-carved bedpost. A picture of her naked and moaning beneath him flashed in his mind. Whoa, that was different. What was she doing to him? He never chased women. He just caught the ones he liked that threw themselves at him, and a day or two later he released them back to their world. A world without him. He tried to turn and leave the store, but his legs refused to go. What the hell? Was she a witch? At that moment she looked over and saw him. A smile curled her lips. No, not a witch, an angel. A fiery, golden-haired angel. His legs started moving in her direction and refused to stop until he was standing in front of her. “I know this sounds strange, but I feel compelled to ask you out to dinner. Are you free tonight?” he asked. She ran her tongue along her lower lip. He watched as she debated what to say. In his mind he begged her to say yes. Staring at her delicate form, he couldn’t help but think she was special. Her lovely eyes never once cut over to the scar on his left cheek. It was like she didn’t even see it. Every other man, woman, and child he’d encountered since the accident had looked at his scar. Their faces reflected what they thought. He had seen plenty of pity, sorrow, curiosity, and even revulsion at times. As the years passed, it was looking better, but it was still noticeable. But not to her. Her beautiful face reflected nothing but interest and arousal. This goddess kept her eyes glued to his eyes, lips, or dimples at all times. Once again his mind begged her to say yes. “Yes,” came her soft response. Relief washed over him with the strength of a tidal wave. “Where are you staying? I’ll pick you up.” Looking quite cautious, she questioned, “How about I meet you at Mamma Mia’s at seven?” A strange caveman urge to throw her over his shoulder and take her home hit him square in the chest. He shook the feeling off and forced himself not to scare her. “Seven it is. What is your name?”

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She hesitated for a second, bit at her lower lip, then said, “Elian. What’s yours?” He had the wildest urge to say husband but forced his first name past his lips. “Trent.” She smiled, and tingles raced down his spine. Taking her hand, he raised it to his lips and kissed her sweet, warm, womanly-scented flesh. “I’ll meet you at Mamma Mia’s at seven, my fiery little angel.” As he strolled away, he could feel the heat of her gaze on his back. That kind of heat would scorch the sheets and leave him with permanent burn marks. A smiled curved his lips upward. He’d proudly wear her mark, at least for a little while. **** Feeling someone watching her, Rain looked up and then she felt that silly grin transforming her face. Every time she saw him, her face automatically took on a life of its own and smiled a greeting to the massive godlike man. Her business side wanted to kick this strange new flirty side. Her friends Branda and Sienna would love to watch her practically drooling all over herself for this man. Karma was a mean bitch. She now wished she hadn’t teased her friends so badly when they drooled over their men. As she neared him, Trent took her arm in his and walked her into the restaurant. “You look beautiful, Elian.” Her middle name sounded odd rolling off his tongue, but she never gave her first name to strange men. Especially big, strong ones that stood over six feet tall. Looking up at him, she lost herself in the emerald shade of his eyes. Moisture slid down her secret passage and dampened her panties. What was it with this man? Her eyes seemed glued to him, and her body wanted him badly. She’d never been attracted to anyone the way she was attracted to him. Maybe he was a

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warlock and he’d placed a spell on her. Time would probably break the spell, but for now she couldn’t take her gaze off him. Upon arrival at a booth in a dim corner of the restaurant, Rain was forced to take her eyes off him long enough to take a seat. She was shocked and thrilled when he motioned her deeper into the booth then sat down next to her. “Do you like pizza?” Her nipples hardened at the sound of his voice. She so needed to get a grip. “Yes.” “This place has the best pizza. I like Canadian bacon. How about you?” “That sounds great.” She felt like a fool. Why couldn’t she form complete sentences around him? Snap out of it, girl, he’s just a man. No different than any other. Well, maybe a little more handsome than the rest, but he was still just a man. “What would you like to drink?” “Lemonade with a shot of coconut rum.” Trent placed the order then turned to her when the waiter left. “How long are you in town for?” “Thirteen more days. I came to town four days ago. Sorrento is a very nice town.” Rain was surprised she’d given him that much information. He was a stranger, yet her mind and body were treating him like a boyfriend. “You’re here on business?” Trent asked, his voice full of curiosity. “Yes. I’m looking for unique furniture. Sorrento has some excellent craftsmen.” Her eyes dropped to his lips and stared at them longingly. With a nod of his head, he stated, “Italy has some of the best craftsmen in the world. I hope you find what you are looking for.” Her eyes swept his wide shoulders. “I already have.” Excitement flavored his words. “If you are finished with your business, I would love to show you around Sorrento.”

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An aching tremor shot through her womanly canal. “I’m not finished, but I have found a few pieces already. Those pieces have made the trip worth it, but I still need to check out a few more shops on my list. It would be unprofessional of me not to check them out. Thanks for the offer, though.” Their food arrived before Trent could reply. Two waiters appeared. One placed their drinks in front of them then moved on to another table while the other waiter placed the pizza on the table and served them both a slice of the delicious-smelling food. One bite in and Rain mmmmmed in delight. Licking his lips, he commented, “It’s good, right? I love the food here.” “Damn good. This drink is not bad, either. I had the spaghetti here the other day and it was awesome.” “Yeah, I like their spaghetti, too.” The two relished their food for a few minutes in peaceful silence. A silence that made her feel like they were a comfortable couple that had been together for years, instead of a couple of strangers who’d just recently met. Several pieces of pizza later, he broke the silence by asking, “What’s your full name?” Rain took a swig of her drink and fought the blinding need to tell him. He was a stranger and a killer, for all she knew. “Elian is all you need to know. I never give out personal details like my name and address to strangers. Tell me something about Sorrento.” Disappointment slashed across his face before he replaced it with determination. “Let’s see, Sorrento is known for its lemons. We have some of the largest in the world. We also produce olives, almonds, and walnuts. Plus, we have some of the best woodworking craftsmen in the world, but that is something you already know. Now I’ll ask you something. What’s your favorite color?”

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Looking into his gleaming green eyes, she answered, “Green. What’s yours?” Staring into the deep blue pools of her eyes, he said in a low, husky tone, “Blue. How do you sunbathe, in a swimming suit or nude?” She felt her eyes widen in shock. Oh yeah, he was a bad boy. “Nude. How about you?” “Nude if you were around.” Damn, his voice was igniting a fire in her veins. Her nipples were tight, and her clit was begging for his touch. Unable to stop herself she asked, “Do you have any STDs?” The only people who asked those kinds of questions were people seriously considering sex. Damn, why had she asked that? If she didn’t get control of her wayward body, it just may jump him. “No. How about you?” “No. I’m sorry I asked, though. It was a personal question, and I shouldn’t have asked it.” Rain still couldn’t believe she’d asked him that. When he’d said no, her vaginal canal had clenched in joy. She really needed to slow down. She just wasn’t sure how to make her body quit responding so wildly to his. “No need to be sorry. It was a good question. A question prospective lovers need to have answered.” Picking up his glass, he took a drink then asked, “Have you seen any of the sights in town?” Relief washed over her as he directed the conversation away from sex. “No, not yet. I plan to in a few days. Maybe you could tell me the best places to go.” “Maybe I could show you.” “I guess you could, if we bump into each other before I go home.” She really hoped they ran into each other again. His bold green eyes watched her lips intently. He looked like he wanted to eat her up. Taking her shoulders in his hands, he turned her and lowered his lips to hers.

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A powerful jolt of hungry sensation shot through both of them. She knew he had felt it, too, because his body had jerked just as hard as hers had. He pulled back and looked at her in surprise. Heat seared her vaginal canal and a gasp escaped her lips. She had never experienced such a jolt of animalistic need before, and from the look on his face, neither had he. Taking advantage of her parted lips, Trent scooped down and darted his tongue into her mouth. Their tongues collided then started to stroke and taste each other. Rain moaned in bliss. She had never been given such a potent kiss as this. He tasted all male. Her hands moved to his chest, and she marveled at how firm he was. Her pussy quivered and demanded she let him in. Mind reeling, Rain trembled as his hands moved slowly from her shoulders to her breasts. His large hands cupped her soft mounds of flesh tenderly then gently kneaded them. A low groan rumbled up from his chest. His lips lessened the intensity of the kiss then eased an inch away from hers. His eyes captured hers in a sexually intense snare. Desperately needing another taste of him, she slid her hands to the back of his head and pulled him down. Their mouths melded together in a heated rush of passion. Uncontrolled heat pulsed through her womb as their tongues explored and tasted each other. Tingling sensations danced in her breasts as he stroked his thumbs across her nipples. Nipples that were hard and begging for more. She arched her back, pressing her aching peaks against his hands. A moan escaped his mouth as his lips traveled from hers to her ear. He nibbled at the lobe as his hands pinched her begging nipples. The stroking of his hands combined with his teeth nipping at her ear turned her into a quivering boneless mass of soft, yielding flesh. She’d never felt like this before. No other man made her body want to

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lie down and give in to his every need. Fire licked at her core and demanded he quench it. The tinkling of a bell and the burst of laughter that followed dragged Rain from her passion-induced fever. Looking around Trent, she saw a couple walking toward a table. They sat close to one another then continued their conversation in hushed tones. Sucking in a large breath of air, Rain pulled away from Trent. “I—I need to go. I had a very nice time.” Trent closed his eyes for a second as if trying to clear the lust that had to be still pulsing through his veins. Opening his eyes, he looked down at her and smiled. Both dimples made an appearance. Before she left town, she should take a picture of those deep dimples bracketing such sensual lips. Masturbating to a picture like that would skyrocket her to a climax in a hurry. Signaling for the waiter, he paid for their meal and led her outside. Taking her hand in his, he questioned her in a low tone, “Can I see you again?” “Let’s leave it to fate. If we run into each other again, we’ll go from there. I like you a lot, but I’ll confess you do something to me. Something I can’t explain. It’s kind of scary.” Her voice trembled as she confessed her true feelings. Keeping secrets from him was proving to be difficult. Pulling her hand from his, she turned to leave. His hand captured her wrist and turned her around. “How far is your place from here?” “Just a few blocks.” “I can’t let you walk that far in the dark.” To her surprise, he hailed a cab, opened the door, and helped her inside. As she watched, he put a few bills in the cab driver’s hand. “Take her wherever she needs to go.” As the cab pulled away from the curb, he watched her with hungry eyes.

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A shiver skated down her spine, and she turned to watch him watch her leave. She had the strangest compulsion to cry the moment he disappeared from sight.

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Chapter Two Slapping herself silly was looking better by the minute. Rain was standing in her second furniture shop today, and all she could think about was black-haired, green-eyed Trent. If she kept this up, she was going to need a good therapist. She had tossed and turned all night long. Dreams of him touching her kept her body sensitive and alive all through the night. As soon as she’d thought she was free to rest, he’d pop back into her mind. The taste of his kiss, the feel of his hands stroking the peaks of her breasts. Looking around, her eyes landed on a magnificent bed. Her spread out and covered by Trent’s large, hard body jumped to the forefront of her wicked mind. A happy squeal drew her attention to a little boy and girl that had come in with their parents. Their ages seemed to be about five and seven. They looked like tourists. Bucket loads of excited energy poured off the children. A tornado had nothing on these kids. While the parents were busy inspecting the coffee and end tables, the little boy went over to a kitchen table, climbed on top, then looked around to make sure his parents were not looking. When all was clear, he took a running leap and landed on a couch a couple of feet away. He laughed and got up and did it again. A harsh look and stern sound from his mom had him looking down and walking away from the couch. The little girl had moved over to one of the beds and was sitting on it, picking her nose, and wiping her boogers on the bedspread that decorated it. Needing to defend her purchase from the cute but wild beasts, Rain sat down on the bed she wanted. Watching the kids in horror,

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Rain noted that the girl had quit using the cover as a tissue and instead was waving the boy over. As soon as he climbed onto the bed, they both started jumping. With hands covering their mouths to hide the sound of their giggles, they jumped and jumped. Taking in the scene, Rain noted how the bed was holding up. She’d not had any doubts about the strength of the beds in this store, but the kids high-jumping proved these beds to be of high quality. The frame didn’t move at all. The boy started counting softly as they jumped: one—jump— two—jump—three—jump. And jump they did, right onto the bed next to the one Rain sat on. Jump, jump, jump. These kids had enough energy to power a city. Once again the construction proved to be stronger than the children. No movement of the bed, not even one creaking sound could be heard. They giggled and cupped their hands tighter over their mouths. The boy started counting and looked over at the bed Rain sat on. She frowned and wiggled her index finger back and forth, signaling them not to do it. Sadness transformed their little faces. Rain felt bad, but not that bad. Especially when she watched them turn around and jump to the edge of the bed. After three more counts they leaped to the bed they’d first come from. Their mother stormed over and grabbed each by the hand and quickly walked them over to her husband, who was paying the owner for something. Rain figured they must have found the table they were looking for. After the family left, Rain approached the salesman and started negotiating for the bed. She didn’t go too hard on him, although she could have. He still looked a little shaky to her. The poor man must have been scared to death those kids were going to do major damage to his store. He had gotten lucky in that the little tornadoes never made it to the vase and mirror section of his store. Taking pity, she went easy on him.

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After making arrangements to have the bed delivered to their store, Rain headed to the café she’d met Trent at. With her stomach in knots, she hoped he’d show up. People came and went. No sign of Trent. The waiter brought her spaghetti and bread. As she ate, she thought of the movie Lady and the Tramp. When she sucked up a long piece of spaghetti, she bemoaned the fact that her Tramp was gone. Trying to get a grip, she savored her lunch as she watched the ebb and flow of people moving along the street. A tall man with dark hair and broad shoulders stepped out of one of the shops. Her heart picked up its pace. Come on, look this way. Let me see your handsome face. He pulled out his phone and made a call. Look this way, Rain chanted in her mind. When he finally looked up, her shoulders slumped in disappointment. It wasn’t him. Needing an emotional pickup, she headed to her hotel. Once there she pulled out her computer. Calling one of her best friends, Branda, she sat at the room’s desk and prepared for a video chat. The second she saw Branda’s smiling face, she tried to hide her disappointment. It didn’t work. “What’s happened?” Branda asked. “Nothing. I just miss you and Sienna. How are the wedding preps going?” Rain dodged Branda’s danged intuition. That’s what happened, though, when you got too close to people, she thought to herself. They could read you like a large-print, open book. “The wedding stuff is going great, and the twins are close to finishing the business meetings that have been keeping us from going to Italy. We leave next week. I can’t wait to see you. You and I have to go shopping. It will be so much fun.” Branda’s excited face turned serious in the blink of an eye. “Now, tell me what’s wrong. You look depressed. Why?” Knowing Branda wouldn’t be swayed, Rain spilled. “I met the hottest guy ever at a café. He followed me to a store I had to check out and invited me to dinner. I said yes and met him at Mamma

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Mia’s. We had a great time. He even kissed me. Damn, he’s the best kisser. His lips are unbelievable.” Waving her hand in the air, Rain continued, “Anyway, he wanted to see me again, and I told him we should let fate decide if we saw each other again.” “I take it fate didn’t step in today.” “No, I even went to the café where we met, hoping to see him. I feel so stupid. There was something about him. I don’t know. I feel like I’ve lost my best friend. But that’s crazy because I don’t even know him. I think I’m losing my mind.” “Not to worry, Sienna knows a good doctor.” Rain glared at her teasing friend. “Not funny. Tell me everything is going to be all right.” “Wow, you are serious about this guy. What happened to the old Rain who didn’t care if she ever saw a man again?” Rain couldn’t stop the whine that entered her voice. “I don’t know, but I want her back. What is the name of that doctor Sienna knows?” “Aw, honey, if it’s meant to be, you will bump into him again. You still have more than a week’s time to run into him again. Just don’t jump in too fast. I think it was smart of you to hang back and let fate take its course.” Rain felt a little better. “I guess you are right. I need to quit moping and enjoy the time I have left here.” “That’s the Rain I know and love. Just a word of caution, if you do run into him again, be careful. He could be a killer. Most of them are nice to their prey until they get them alone and kill them. Besides, if he lives in Italy and you live here, it would be almost impossible to make a relationship work. Now go out and do something you love to do. Have you looked into getting a new tattoo? I know you like getting them in other countries when you can.” She was glad she’d called Branda. “That’s just what I’m going to do. I’ll ask around and find out who is the best in this area. Delicate body art always makes me feel better. I can’t believe I was mooning

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over a man who lives here. What was I thinking? Thanks for the help. I love you, girl.” One of Branda’s twin lovers appeared behind her and kissed her on the neck. Smiling at the computer, he said, “I love her, too. Hi, Rain. Are you having a good time in Italy?” Rain had a strange feeling of déjà vu as she looked into his smiling face. “Much better now that I’ve talked to Branda.” “Glad to hear it. You should go see the ruins of Pompeii. They are very interesting. See you later. Have fun.” He kissed Branda on the top of her head then disappeared from sight. “I get them so confused. Which one was that one?” Rain asked. Branda’s twin lovers were so hot Rain was unwillingly envious of her. Branda laughed. “That one was Trey.” “I don’t know how you tell them apart. I’d have to have their names tattooed on their hips or somewhere,” Rain stated. “To tell you the truth, I think is has something to do with the blessing on their family. Deep down I just know which one is which. What are you going to do tonight?” Branda asked in a sanguine tone. “Go over my notes then go out to eat. I’ll probably ask about the tattoo artists in the area. But the one thing I’m not going to do is mope about. From here on out I’m going to have fun. I guess I should let you go. See you in a few days.” Rain saw one of the twins pass by in the background, and her heart skipped a beat. That was weird. She didn’t like her body’s response to her friend’s men at all. It wasn’t quite the same feelings she had for Trent, though. Her feelings for them were not sexual, but she felt connected to them in a way she couldn’t explain. Forcing a smile, she waved at Branda and hoped her friend never found out about her strange feelings for her men. Branda waved back. “See you soon. Call me if you need to.” Rain watched the screen blank out. Therapy was looking better by the second. Maybe she could find a shrink who had black hair and green eyes. Or not! Lemonade with a shot of coconut rum was looking better by the second.

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Chapter Three Sitting at the café three days later, Rain breathed in the fresh air. Eyes closed, she absorbed the sun and sounds around her. “Once again I find my beautiful flower sitting alone with her eyes closed. I could have stolen a kiss.” Eyes flying open, Rain looked across her table to see Trent sitting there watching her. How did he sit down so quietly? “Are you a ninja?” Rich, warm laugher rumbled from his chest. “No. But I’m glad you think I am. I’ve been looking for you.” Rain snorted. “You haven’t been looking very hard.” Trent clutched his hands to his heart. “You wound me. I’ve been here for the last three mornings eating breakfast hoping to see you.” Tilting her head and smiling, Rain retorted, “There’s your problem. I’m not a morning person. You wouldn’t catch me dead at a café before eleven. Even my corpse would be too smart to move around before then.” A twinkle entered his eyes. “Do corpses move around?” She grinned and rolled her eyes dramatically. “On the SyFy channel they do. Where do you think mummies and zombies come from? Do I have to teach you everything?” Rain was shocked by the playful tone of her own voice. Damn, she had it bad for this guy. Too bad he lived so far from her. A hungry look transformed his face. “There are some things I can teach you. Things I’d love to teach you.”

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An unwanted shiver chased across her body. “If it’s how to show up here for breakfast, forget it.” Not wanting to fall under his spell again, she steered the conversation away from sex. “Why do I get the feeling you think I was talking about sex?” At her raised eyebrow, he added innocently, “I was talking about showing you around. But, if you’d like, I could force myself to slowly pleasure your delicious body. I want nothing more than your visit here to be memorable.” Laughter bubbled up and took control of her for a good two minutes. Once she was able to speak, she said, “You’d force yourself to pleasure me, huh? So, you’re not attracted to me at all, is that what you’re saying?” Her smile grew larger as he squirmed in his seat. She decided she liked making him squirm. “It’s not like that, bella. I find you very attractive. But, I would never impose my attentions on a woman. If you wanted me to pleasure you, I’d force myself to be gentle with you. You have unleashed a wild beast in me. That beast wants to do many wicked and sinfully delicious things to you. He wants to lick you all over, very badly, but for you I would control him.” Trent paused and stared deeply into her eyes, so deeply she felt it in every cell of her body. His hand reached out and clasped hers. “If you like a rougher ride, I’d let him out for you, my fiery little angel. I’d make you come all night long.” The seriousness that surrounded them made her squirm. Her pulse kicked up. His fingers moved to her wrist and pressed. Heat washed over her body and settled heavily between her legs. His fingers relaxed, and she realized he’d been checking her pulse. For the first time in her adult life she felt her cheeks flame. She felt totally eaten up by the intensity of his gaze. This had never happened to her before. The sexual cloud that hung over them dissipated when the waiter came over and asked them if they needed anything else. Trent surprised her when he rattled off something quickly in perfect Italian. The man nodded and walked away.

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He came back quickly with a glass of tea, a large piece of chocolate cake with two strawberries on top, and a large piece of lemon pie. Rain grinned and leaned forward to savor the aroma of the sweets. “How did you know I would like dessert?” A devilish grin slashed across his face. “How could I not? Anyone as sweet as you has to love sugar.” “You are a slick one.” “No, I’m just honest,” he responded. “Okay, Mister Honesty, which one is mine?” “I figured we would share them. I like both. How about you?” “I love all desserts, so sharing sounds good to me.” Picking up her fork, Rain scooped up a bite of cake and mmmmmed her delight. Trent took a bite of cake and closed his eyes to appreciate the rich flavor. Next they tried the lemon and once again groaned as they tasted a little piece of heaven. “You like?” he asked. Rain nodded. “Won-der-ful.” They ate happily for the next few minutes, only bumping forks once. The waiter moving to the table across from them drew Rain’s attention. He was placing a few cookies in front of a woman. After licking her last bite of cake off her lips, Rain stated, “My friend makes the best cookies in the world.” Trent shook his head. “No, my sister-in-law makes the best cookies in the world.” Rain raised a brow. “Is that so? Do they melt in your mouth and make you want to beg for more?” That devilish grin was back, and she knew she was in trouble. “As a matter of fact, they do. Your choice of words intrigues me. I’d love to have you melt in my mouth and beg for more.”

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The sex that dripped from his voice made her nipples harden. To her relief the waiter came by and broke the spell. Trent thanked the man and paid their bill. Once the waiter left he turned to her. “Have you seen the ruins of Pompeii?” “No, but my friend’s boyfriend told me I should see them while I’m here,” she answered. “He is right. You should see them. Let me take you.” At her uncertain look he smiled, showing off both dimples. “Who better than a local? I can tell you things others can’t.” Let me take you echoed in her mind. She had a feeling she’d like him taking her a lot. Not able to tell him no, she answered, “I guess so. How does tomorrow sound?” “Where should I pick you up?” His face shone with pleasure. He is just too friggin’ cute. “I’ll meet you here at eleven.” His brows drew together at her words. “Why don’t I pick you up at your hotel?” “Good try. Meet me here at eleven in the morning if you want to take me. Otherwise I’ll find my own way.” At his sad look, she added, “No puppy eyes. I eat puppies for lunch. Here. Eleven. Tomorrow.” The wickedness that crossed his face let her know she’d once again opened a door for his wild wit. “Are you saying if I give you puppy eyes tomorrow, you’ll eat me for lunch? If so, I’m in.” Laughter erupted from her. “Stop. You are terrible. Now leave me alone. I have to go back to work. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He led her the few steps to the sidewalk then turned her to him and pressed his lips lightly to hers before nipping and licking her lips. Pulling back, he looked down at her. A shiver raced up her spine the second she looked into his piercing eyes. The air around them suddenly crackled supernaturally. He had her full attention when he said, “You are like a breath of fresh air to my soul.” Strong arms tightened around her, drawing her in close to his hard frame for a moment. Sooner than she’d liked, he took a step back and raised her

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hand to his lips then kissed it. “Until tomorrow.” Turning on his heel, he walked away. Rain stood staring at him until the crowds enveloped him. His words echoed in her heart—You are a breath of fresh air to my soul. Those words and the way he’d said them stroked the soft spot in her heart. As she looked in the direction he’d gone, she realized that once again she felt as if he’d taken a piece of her heart with him. **** Trent showed up a little early at the café and ordered some food for them to take to the ruins. The second she came into view, his heart tripled its beat time. She was wearing fitted slacks that looked like they were made personally for her curvaceous body. Long sleeves flowed down her arms, giving her the appearance of an angel when the wind fluttered the light weight material. Her strappy, low-heeled sandals were perfect for walking. A shy smile curled her luscious lips when she saw him. His willful cock stirred, and he had to coerce his caveman side to stay down. It would be uncivilized to throw her over his shoulder and take her straight home to his bed. Deep down that’s exactly what he wanted to do. “Hello, bella.” “Hi, Trent. Are you sure you don’t mind taking me to Pompeii? I don’t want to impose,” Rain asked in a tentative voice. Taking her hand, he kissed it. “It is no imposition at all. I look forward to it. Let’s go. I promise you’ll have a good time.” Grabbing their bag of food, he guided her to his car and helped her in. After getting in himself, he put the food in the backseat. Taking in a lungful of air, he relished her scent, so sweet and womanly. “Do you know anything about Pompeii?” “Not really, I was just told I should see it before I left Italy,” she replied.

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“I’ll tell you about it as we drive. Pompeii is a city that was buried by ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. It was lost for over 1,500 years. It was accidentally discovered in 1599. The people who found it were digging an underground channel to divert the river. I would love to have seen the faces of the men that found it. Can you image digging a tunnel and running into ancient walls covered with inscriptions and paintings?” “It must have been quite a shock.” Trent took in her scent again, loving every bit of it. “Shock is the correct word. The people of that time believed in Priapus, the god of sex and fertility. Quite a bit of their art is of him. His manly parts are extremely large. Some of their art has been hidden several times by prudish people. Now that most of them are dead, the art is on display. I just thought you should be prepared for what you are going to see. The buildings are fun to explore. Two-thirds of the city has been excavated and plants have been planted to give you a good idea of what it would have looked like back in its day.” “I can’t wait to see it. I like to see how other people lived a long time ago.” Rain sniffed the air. “What is that wonder smell?” she asked. “It’s me,” Trent teased. Rain rolled her eyes. “I should have known you couldn’t last long.” “Oh, I can last,” he shot back. A laugh erupted from her throat. “Not that way, fool. I was talking about your habit of talking trash.” “I’m going to ignore that comment about me talking trash. Now let’s get back to the way I smell. You don’t like my natural scent? I’m wounded.” Her giggle delighted him. “You smell fine, but I smell food. Delicious-smelling food.” She raised her chin and sniffed loudly. “I’m honored that you think I’m delicious.”

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She giggled and shook her head. “See, that’s what I’m talking about. You can’t stop yourself, can you?” “Not when I’m in the company of such a rare beauty. Have pity on me. It’s not often I have the opportunity to entertain a precious jewel like you.” The seriousness of his voice startled him. He’d have to be careful not to get too emotionally close to her. “I’m going to have to guard my heart around you. I have the feeling you’d break it if I let you. Now be serious and tell me the source of the food smell.” “I bought some chicken salad sandwiches, chips, dessert, and a bottle of wine. That’s what was in the bag I put in the backseat. A picnic will help recharge our bodies after we’ve explored for a while. Now back to the subject of your heart, I would never break it on purpose. I just want to spend some time with you making good memories before you go back home,” Trent said. A smile played across her lips. “You can bet I’m never going to forget you.” “Good, because I’ll never forget you either, my fiery little angel.” Pulling into the car park, he parked the car and walked over to her door and helped her out. The jolt that tingled up his arm when he curled his hand around hers surprised him. He quickly looked into her eyes and knew she had felt it, too. The chemistry between them was stronger than any he’d ever felt for another woman. Even Joelle. That thought made his stomach knot painfully. **** The zinger that raced up her arm at his touch caught her off guard. Unbeknownst to her friends, she wasn’t very experienced with men. Maybe this was normal. She’d had sex with her college soul mate. That’s what she’d thought he was until she’d come home one day to an empty apartment. The bastard had even taken her stereo and all her music. All her lost music had hurt more than the loss of him. The sex

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had just been okay, so she didn’t miss that at all. The next time she cut loose and had sex with a boyfriend, it had been real good until he left her for a man. After two failed relationships, she just couldn’t seem to find a man that made her happy. Possibly she wasn’t supposed to find happily-ever-after. That would explain her looking for the last few years but never finding a man who could keep her attention for longer than two seconds—that is until she’d met Trent. Those old memories usually made it easy to keep her distance from men. Glancing up at Trent under her lashes, she felt her clit respond. Damn, the sight of his tall, muscular body washed all her bad memories away and made her desperately want to make new ones. Maybe it was time to explore her sexual side. He sure made her want to more than any other man ever had. Rain’s attention turned to the stone streets, sidewalks, and buildings as Trent led her through Pompeii. Walking down the street, Rain and Trent peeked into all the homes and shops on the street. They were so small compared to the size of homes and businesses built now. Turning a corner, they came to a larger home and stepped inside. “Wow, someone important or rich must have lived here.” “It would seem so. Even the kitchen area is larger. I can picture them throwing lots of parties. Most of their neighbors would have come by, eaten, drank, and danced late into the night.” Trent wiggled his eyebrows, and she knew he was about to say something outrageous, and she was right. His voice was playful and sensual. “The later it got, the more erotic the pictures on the walls became. The women probably stood before the fresco of Priapus and drooled over his large man parts. Yes, I can picture them dragging their men home and jumping the poor men.” Rain snorted. “If you get any crazier, I’m calling a shrink.” A strange, sexually playful side she didn’t know she had prodded her into action. Moving over to where Trent stood looking at one of the

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frescoes, she turned him around and pushed him up against the wall. A wild thrill sped through her veins when he gasped in surprise and his eyes stared hotly down at her. Grinning wickedly, she rubbed her body against his. Oh man, he felt so good. He was hot and hard and tall. Unable to stop herself, she wound her leg around his and pressed her hips to his, then whispered, “After a night of drinking and dancing and staring at erotic art, the women would never have waited to get their men home. They would have pushed their men to the ground and rode them hard right then and there. That’s the way I picture it happening.” The sound of other people coming in the house had Rain jumping away from Trent. Oblivious to the scene she had interrupted, an older woman stated, “These houses are so small. I don’t know how the people lived in them without strangling each other.” Rain nodded her agreement. Trent took Rain’s hand and headed for the door. Once they were a little distance away from the other visitors, Rain stared at her feet and apologized. “I’m sorry about that. I don’t know what came over me. I never attack innocent men.” Stopping, Trent turned her to face him and with a finger under her chin raised her face so her eyes could meet his. Green sparks shone in his eyes. Her nipples extended, wanting to brush against his chest again. He leaned down and kissed the shell of her ear. A devilish smile crossed his face when chill bumps appeared on her neck and upper shoulder. “I loved what you did. I hope whatever came over you comes back. I would love to play with that sex goddess.” Taking her hand, he led her to a lemon tree. “By the way, I like your picture of party life here way more than my own.” Reaching up into the tree, he pulled a lemon off and retrieved a knife out of his pocket and cut the fruit open. He handed her half. “Go

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ahead. Try it. It’s a little late in the season for them to be harvested, but it will still be good.” He licked his own to show her it was fine. “Why not. It smells good.” Licking her own, she smiled then said, “Very good, now all I need is some salt.” To her utter surprise, he rolled back his sleeve and extended his arm. She saw that his muscular flesh had a fine sheen of salty sweat on it. The look in his eyes dared her to do it. Before she could stop herself she leaned down and licked his arm. “Mmmmm, perfect.” She licked the fruit then his arm once again. A shiver coursed down both of their bodies. He laughed. “You are wicked. I love it.” Another couple strolled up and picked a piece of fruit. Rain’s stomach growled loudly, causing Trent to raise a brow. “I believe it is time to eat. Let’s go get our food. We can eat at one of the tables or under a tree. Which do you prefer?” “A tree. The shade is lovely,” she replied, then laughed when her stomach growled again. The trip to the car and back only took a few minutes. The place was getting more packed as the afternoon blossomed. Finding a spot, they laid out their picnic on a blanket Trent had brought. The food tasted great, just like she knew it would. As they ate, they watched people come and go. Others were eating under trees nearby. A fight broke out between siblings over the last cookie. Dad handled it by giving his up. Looking at his wife, he laughed and patted his stomach and said he didn’t need it. Rain thought that was sweet. Too bad more parents weren’t like that. Trent stretched out on the blanket, propped up on his elbow, and rested his head in his hand. “Do you have any siblings? A group of rabid brothers that are going to descend upon us at any moment?” A smile turned up the corners of her mouth. “Why? Are you scared?” He grinned back. “No, I just like to know how many knives I need to carry.”

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“You never stop, do you?” He shrugged his shoulder. Her body purred. She loved the way his body smoothly moved. “Since I can’t seem to stop you, I guess I’ll answer you. I have zero brothers and one little sister. No need to go buy more knives.” “A man can never have too many knives. But, I must confess I’m glad you don’t have a herd of brothers. I have two brothers. Sometimes they are a pain in the ass, but most of the time we get along real well. Do you and your sister get along?” he asked. “Yeah, she’s crazy. I need to buy her something wild while I’m here. She is always bringing me crazy gifts from other countries,” Rain replied. “She travels a lot?” “All the time. She’s a fashion journalist.” Trent sat up. “That is different. I’ve never known anybody that does that for a living.” “She loves it. The travel, the job. All of it. That’s what’s important. The stories she tells us can be quite wild. Never a dull moment around her.” They sat quietly for a while just taking in the sights and resting. When a family walked by carrying a cooler and looking around for a spot to rest, they decided to leave so others could take a break. The family noticed them packing up, and one of the men asked, “Are you guys leaving?” “Yeah, you can have this spot if you want,” Trent responded. The man immediately set his cooler down and motioned the rest of his family over. “Thanks.” “Sure,” Trent said as he finished loading up their stuff. They made a quick trip back to the car then went back to more exploring. “Thanks for lunch. It was excellent. Now I’m ready for more exploration,” Rain said as they headed back. “I’m glad you enjoyed it,” Trent replied.

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Leading the way, Rain entered a home and sucked in a sharp breath. “Oh my, that’s horrible.” Stepping tentatively closer to the plastered human figures, she turned a sad face up to Trent. “This man looks pained, and the babies are so little.” Trent enfolded her in his arms and squeezed her comfortingly before relaxing his grip. Turning her back to the figures, he pressed his body to her back and placed his arms around her waist. “They died instantly, love. No more than a moment’s pain. Look at how they are positioned all in a row with plenty of space between them. If they’d had any warning, they would have scooped up the babies and huddled together. Some would have gone to the door to see what was going on. I believe these people were sleeping, and it happened so fast they didn’t even have time to get up.” His warmth and words calmed her. “I like the way you put it. I hope you are right, but I don’t want to stay here.” Taking her hand, he led her away. She liked the feel of his hand enveloping hers. It felt right. As they walked down the amazing city street, she felt sorry for all the people who died here. In the distance she could see Mount Vesuvius. It was just five miles away. Back in their time, five miles probably seemed like a good distance, but to a powerful volcano, five miles was nothing. Life was so unpredictable. She needed to start living more. Work had been dominating her time for years, and that needed to stop. As they neared a home, she noted a plaster of a dog on his back with his front legs raised high and his head turned toward his body. “Do you think he was scratching his back or sleeping?” Trent leaned down and spoke close to her ear. “Sleeping. If he’d been awake, he would have jumped up at the first strange sound.” “Unless he was deaf,” Rain shot back. “Very true. We’ll say he was a deaf dog enjoying his last moments by rolling around happily.” Trent pulled her away and headed down another street.

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Stepping into another building, Rain looked around in interest. It was big and had stone pools with steps leading down into what would have been bathing pools. “I can envision people bathing here. You couldn’t be modest in their time.” “No, but it would have been interesting. With them worshipping cocks so much, the poor men didn’t stand a chance.” “The poor men, my ass. They probably walked around with hardons all the time, and I’m sure the women were more than happy to help the men out. Erotic art is all over the place. The sexual freedom they had is amazing and a little unreal.” Rain’s eyes moved around, absorbing all the sights. “Too bad we aren’t that free. I’d love to bring back penis worship,” Trent stated in a serious tone. The twinkle in his eyes as he’d made that typical, manly statement made Rain laugh. “Are you always so horrible?” “Sometimes, but it’s a guarantee when I’m around you. You bring out my wicked side.” Rain felt her pulse speed up and willed her juices not to flow. He was too sexy. She’d be willing to bet even his feet looked good. “Well, put it away. It’s getting late, and I need to return to my room. I will admit though that I’ve had a most interestingly wonderful day.” Trent took her hand and led her back to the car. Once inside he asked innocently, “Which hotel?” “The café, of course. Don’t you remember the first time we met I told you I live under that table?” “Oh, yeah. It’s coming back to me now. I believe I offered to be your mattress. The offer still stands, you know.” Rain shook her head. “You are smooth and memorable. Take me to the café, please. I’m going to get a piece of their cake to take to my room.” Trent raised his hands in surrender. “Okay, whatever you want.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “I hear I taste good with cake.” “Drive.”

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During the drive, Rain couldn’t help but breathe in his scent. He would be better than cake, but he lived so far from her, she just didn’t know what to do. In her whole life she’d never had this much fun with a man. It felt so good being with him. If she could fit him in her suitcase, she’d take him home. What a souvenir he’d make. Her sister, Tamrisk, the souvenir queen, would be green with envy. Rain was so absorbed in her thoughts she was surprised when she felt the car stopping. Trent got out and opened her door then helped her out. Trent took her hand and kissed her knuckles. “Let me take you to your hotel. I’m a good guy, really.” “Of that I’ve no doubt, but I never let large men know where I’m staying. If you could shrink in half and I could kick your ass doped up, I’d let you take me to my hotel.” It pained her to keep her distance, but she was in another country, after all. This situation bit harder than a saber-toothed tiger on steroids. Running his fingers through her hair, he whispered, “Beautiful and smart. A delicate flower like you should always be careful. I promise not to hurt you. I just want to spend two nights in the paradise of your arms.” Stomach twisted in a vicious bitch of a knot, she replied, “Let’s leave it to fate. If we run into each other again, we will know fate has spoken in our favor. Thanks for a wonderful day.” Her heart screamed at her legs as they carried her away from Trent. With a heavy cloud over her, she order two pieces of cake and turned to head to her room. Her gaze found him immediately. He motioned her over then turned and hailed a cab. Paying the cabbie, he held the door for her. “You are far too precious to walk home in the evening.” He kissed her lips lightly then helped her into the cab. “Until fate brings us together again. Good night, my fiery little angel.” He closed the door, and she gave the cab driver her address. Looking back, she once again watched him until he disappeared from

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sight. Closing her eyes, she pictured a heart with wings flying away. Feeling hollow inside, she knew her heart had just flown away to be with Trent. Looked like she wouldn’t be bringing home a souvenir after all. Instead she’d be leaving a piece of herself behind.

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Chapter Four Stepping into the hotel elevator, Rain was so depressed and missing Trent that she pushed the wrong button and had to ride the elevator all the way up before she could go down to the ground floor. It had been two long, torturous days since she’d seen him. Leaning against the plush wall, she moped as she waited. The elevator stopped on the top floor. Figures. That’s how her day was going. All she wanted to do was go to the café and see if Trent was there. Twisting the ring on her index finger, she stared at it as the doors opened and someone entered the small space. “Looks like fate has spoken.” She’d know that heavenly voice anywhere. Snapping her head up, she replied, “So it would seem.” Emotions pinging all over the place, Rain felt her body heating up, wanting him. She licked her lips and ran her eyes down the length of his powerful frame. I can do this. I can be more sexually aggressive, take what I want. I just won’t get attached to him. I’m older now. I can handle it. Sex without strings. Wet, wild sex without strings. Pussy wet and demanding, Rain let her sexual organs think for her. Pushing Trent up against the wall, she rubbed her body against his. Reaching up, she ran her fingers through his soft hair and pulled his lips down to hers then devoured him. She vaguely registered him feeling around on the wall then pushing a button making the elevator stop. A feeling of rightness, of being home, whipped through her body. His hands cupped the back of her head as if he feared she would withdraw. Running her hands over his chest and shoulders, she

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relished the feel and taste of him. So masculine, so strong. Tugging his shirt out of his pants, she slid her hands under it and gloried in the feel of his hard flesh. His rippling muscles danced beneath her questing fingers. Trent moaned and moved his lips in a scorching trail to her ear. He nibbled at the shell, and his harsh breath burned a path to her nipples and clitoris. Needing him desperately, she unfastened his pants and pulled out his huge cock. The plum-shaped head was perfect. The shaft was thick and long. Going to her knees, she sucked him into her mouth. He tasted salty and manly. She mmmmmed in delight. He groaned and ran his fingers through her hair. “Fuck, that feels good, babe.” He slowly thrust his hips forward and back, easily fucking her mouth. The pulse in his dick intrigued her. It throbbed out a wild beat. Grasping the base, she gently held him as she lapped at the tip. His moans filled the small space, and his hands tightened on her head. A tremble shook his pelvis when she pursed her lips, tilted her head, and slid unhurriedly up and down the length of his responsive cock. The passion that poured off him had her pussy clenching and gushing in readiness. She couldn’t take it anymore. She needed him now. Kissing her way quickly up his body, she unfastened her pants and pushed them and her underwear off. Their lips met, and she let him devour her mouth for a minute then pulled him down to the carpeted floor. Straddling his large cock, she guided the plum-shaped crown to her dripping entrance and sank down slowly. He moaned and bucked under her. His thick dick pushed and stretched her inner walls, filling her up to capacity. They both groaned when she was fully impaled by him. “You feel so good.” Rain couldn’t hold back. She rotated her hips and ground the pearl between her thighs hard against his pubic bone. His hands slid up her arms, over her shoulders, and came down to cup her breasts through her blouse. He squeezed, and she shuddered in response. Grinding harder into him, she knew she was close. Strong

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hands moved to her butt and lifted then dropped her down repeatedly on his throbbing cock. Bucking in smooth, strong strokes, he hit just the right spot. She tightened her thighs, holding him where she needed him. Two more hip circles and she wailed loudly as she came. Growling, he bucked wildly under her. His hands clamped down on her hips, and he stiffened. The pulsing of his dick as he ejaculated in her dragged out her climax for several long, blissful minutes. Boneless, she melted into him. **** Still laying on the elevator floor, bodies connected, he stroked her back and tried to calm his breathing. He’d seen stars when she’d impaled her wet, tight pussy onto his dick. The cautious side of him warned him to stop, go to a room, get a condom, and control the situation. The beast in him and winner in this case demanded he come in her. The bliss he’d felt as her walls squeezed him and he’d released his cum in her hot, wet body had been the most exquisite pleasure he’d ever experienced. The animal lurking under his skin wanted more of that pleasure, much more of it. Needing to know if he could have more of the same he asked, “Are you on the pill?” Stirring in his arms, she whispered drowsily, “I’m protected.” “Good. You’re coming to the Paradise Suite with me.” Slapping her butt once, he rolled her to her side then kissed her gently before smoothly standing and pulling her up. After tucking his semi-hard shaft into his pants he grabbed her panties and helped her into them. Kissing her pink knees, he looked up at her. “Do they hurt?” Shaking her head, she answered, “No. The carpet in here is very soft. Plus it looks clean and new, thank goodness.”

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Grinning, he helped her into her pants. “That’s because it is new, and we steam clean it once a month, which happened to be yesterday, or else I would have taken you against the wall.” Turning to the elevator panel, he pushed in the necessary code and the elevator started moving upward. Once the doors opened on the top floor, he guided her to the right, pulled out his hotel card, and swiped it through the door lock of the Paradise Suite. Holding the door, he gestured her inside. Sweetly rumpled is how she looked. He wanted to keep her looking just like that. “Wow. This place is nice. Do you stay here often?” Rain questioned. “Sometimes. Check the place out, if you’d like. I need to make a call. What do you want from room service?” At her confused look, he smiled and said, “Now that I have you, I don’t plan on letting you go until at least tomorrow night.” Stepping closer to her, he captured her hand and squeezed gently. “I don’t usually see a woman for more than two dates. I like to catch and release. Are you all right with that?” God, he hoped she was, because he didn’t know what he’d do if she said no. Nibbling her lip, she debated for a moment then said, “Yes, I’m good with it.” Looking into his eyes, brow furrowed, she asked, “Does two dates equal two days, or will it be over when I leave? I’ve never had a fling before.” “Most of the time two days is all I see a woman. I’m very busy, so I only do this a couple of times a year. I talk to a lot of women, but I don’t have sex with any that I don’t click with. My schedule doesn’t allow me to get too close to a woman.” Not since Joelle, that is. He shoved the pain away and waited for her response. Nodding a little jerkily, she agreed. “All right, I’m a busy person, too, so this will work out best for me as well.” Relief washed over him like never before. “It’s time for lunch. Would you be all right with finger sandwiches, fruit, cheese, and oil-

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dipped French bread?” A grin broadened his lips. “I don’t want you too full. I have plans for you.” A blush took over her cheeks. “That sounds good to me. I have plans for you myself. Since this is my first fling, I plan on using you as much as possible. Get my feet good and wet, you know.” The saucy smile she directed at him made his groin tighten. “By all means, feel free to explore your wild side. Now go check the place out while I order our food. I need you as energized as possible.” The swing of her hips as she walked off almost made him forget to call the front. Gaining control of himself once she was out of sight, he called down and told them to book him in the Paradise Suite then called to order their food. He had a feeling his sassy angel was about to rock his world. **** Rain’s thoughts were all over the place. She couldn’t decide if she was happy or sad about him only wanting a short fling. Living so far apart made it a good thing, but damn it, her body wanted to keep him. Ride him hard then let him rest then ride him again. An irresistible pull kept drawing her to him. Only taking quick peeks into the luxurious rooms, she hurried through, not able to appreciate the suite because all she could think about was getting back to him. A strange feeling of peace washed over her the second she saw him standing on the balcony. A voice whispered in her mind and heart, “He’s the one.” Looking around, Rain searched for the voice. Seeing no one, she walked out to Trent. “Is someone here? I just heard a voice.” “No, it’s just us. I didn’t hear anything. Maybe you heard the wind blowing. How did you like the suite?” Trent asked. Trying to shake the feeling that someone had spoken to her that didn’t exist, she answered, “It is very lovely. Did anyone die here?”

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She had to find the source that was pulling at her and now talking to her. “No, my inquisitive little one. I would never have brought you here if that were the case. Although, I do plan to make you feel like you’re dying of pleasure over and over again.” Stepping closer to her, he wrapped her in his arms and kissed her ear. Goose bumps raced down her body, followed by a wash of peace and contentment. Maybe the peace was coming from their wild ride in the elevator. Snuggling closer in his arms, she decided to get as much of that peace as she could before her time was up. Feeling his erection pressing into her belly, she wasn’t surprised when he rubbed it against her. “See what you do to me. You have me enthralled.” His voice was deep and whiskey smooth. Taking her lips, he kissed her thoroughly, licking and nipping at her lips. Fire blazed to the apex of her thighs. Running her hands across his chest, she reveled in the feel of his powerful frame. God, he felt so big and strong. Tongues tangling, they relished the taste of each other. A musical chime sounded somewhere in the background. Rain didn’t have long to wonder about it. Trent reluctantly pulled back and led her into the suite. “Go to the bedroom, babe. I’ll get the food and leave it in the kitchenette for later.” He swatted her ass as she headed to the big bedroom. At the sound of his voice talking to someone, a shiver skated down her spine. She craved everything about him, from his fast wit to his hot body. That couldn’t be good, but right now she didn’t care. “Why aren’t you naked?” Rain whirled around at the sound of his voice. He was throwing off clothes left and right. The sight of his magnificent chest had her doing the same. He had beat her disrobing and stood transfixed, watching her undress. Striding toward her, after a long moment, he circled her. She shivered when he touched the heart on her left hip. He knelt and

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kissed the heart. The pulse in her clitoris picked up its pace when he started placing light kisses along the tiny blue hearts with dots and bursts that made up a trail from the heart on her left hip to a colorful butterfly that looked like it was about to land on the junction of her thighs. He kissed his way to the butterfly then licked it before going to her smooth pussy and kissing it lightly. “This is the hottest thing I’ve ever seen. Get on the bed.” Going to the bed, she climbed to the center and watched him open a drawer in the nightstand. A frustrated look crossed his face. “Damn, they forgot to replenish the condoms in this room.” He climbed onto the bed and loomed over her. “At least you’re protected. I can’t wait. You are so fucking hot. After having a taste of you, I need a lot more.” His lips descended and captured hers. Strong hands held her head in place as he settled himself between her spread thighs. Trent’s tongue teased her mouth until she groaned and thrust her tongue into his mouth. He tasted of mint and hot male. Unable to stop herself, she hunched her hips against his rock hard erection. He groaned. “Slow down, little one. Let’s make this last.” Stopping the rocking of her hips, she ran her hands along his back, loving the feel of his hard muscles. Sensations like she’d never before felt crashed through her heated body. Lust and peace battled within her. Both emotions were strong. Lust would win for a bit then he’d touch her just right and peace would dominate. The second he started working his thick cock inside her, the warring lust and peace melded into a blissfully whole feeling she had never felt before. When he was fully seated inside her, the feeling intensified. Being one with him was the most satisfying sensation she’d ever felt. He cradled her head in his large hands and kissed her deeply. Tongues dueling, she arched into him, needing to touch as much of

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him as possible. Hips canting, he moved in and out of her. His thick dick rubbed all the right spots. Wrapping her legs around his waist, she felt his cock slide in deeper. She writhed and moaned in delight. “Oh man, you feel so good. Please don’t stop.” “Never. Your little pussy is squeezing me so sweetly I never want to leave your hot, wet body.” Pistoning his hips, he groaned in pleasure. Blood pounding in her clit, she begged, “Harder.” “Not yet, sweetie. I want this taste of heaven to last.” Sliding his hands under her back, he bowed her, making her breasts thrust forward for his pleasure. More of her cream slicked her passage when he licked and nipped at her nipples until they hardened for him. Taking a turgid peak into his mouth, he suckled at it. Fire shot to her clit. Hunching her hips hard, she tried to find relief from the firestorm that built to a raging inferno. Mewling loudly, she sought her climax. “Oh, no you don’t. Not yet.” The rumble of his voice startled her. She cried out when he pulled his cock from her body. Feeling empty, she begged, “Please, I was so close.” “Not yet, I want you to remember this as strongly as I’m going to.” He stroked the sides of her body as his eyes devoured her. The AC turned on. She sighed as the cool air caressed her hot flesh. The pressure of his stroking hands increased. A moan escaped her mouth when he circled her breasts then slowly made his way to her aching peaks. He rolled and pinched her nipples until she thought she’d go crazy. He was so damn good with his hands. She scooted down a little and moaned when her pussy brushed his cockhead. Reaching down, she wrapped her hand around his hard rod. It was hot and ready to finish the job. All she had to do was talk Trent into it. “You know your thick dick wants back inside me. Let it have its way.”

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“Don’t talk. I don’t want to finish this yet.” He shifted so his cock no longer touched her pussy. The muscle in his cheek started twitching. Trent was on the ragged edge, and she knew it. “Come on, look at your strong cock. The blood is pulsing through it. I bet your balls are starting to hurt. They need relief.” A look of pure lust crossed his face. “You shouldn’t play with fire, little one. Turn over and get on your knees, now.” “Yes, sir.” Rain quickly did as he commanded. “Spread your legs wider. Show me your pretty pussy.” Oh yeah, she thought as she spread her thighs wide for him. He was going to give it to her now. Hot loving. Her body trembled when she felt his hands smooth across her feet and up to her calves. He stopped there and massaged her muscles. “I love your curvy legs.” Moving at the pace of a snail, he inched his hands up her thighs then started massaging them until her muscles quivered. He shifted, and she jumped when he ran his tongue along her pink slit. She groaned when his hands tightened on her hips and his tongue plunged into her pussy. The whiskers on his chin rubbed her clit deliciously. “Damn, that feels good. Please don’t stop.” He growled in response, and the vibration almost pushed her over the edge. Her arms gave out. Resting her head on the bed, she cried out when he brought his mouth to her clitoris and sucked it. Almost there, almost there. Just before she shot to the stars, he released her little pearl and swirled around it over and over again. In no time at all she was panting. “Please, please.” His lips moved against her nubbin. “Since you begged so prettily, I’ll grant you your wish.” A small kiss was placed on her clit just before he pressed his large cockhead at her quivering entrance and drove into her. Bliss rocked her world as he stretched her sensitive walls and stroked her just right. As she pushed back, she arched her spine and screamed when his

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heavy balls slapped her clit. Stars blurred her vision as he continued slamming into her. The slapping sounds of flesh against flesh filled the room. “You like my big cock stretching your little pussy, don’t you?” He leaned forward and pinched her clit. Rain screamed as the stars danced before her eyes. Her orgasm shot through every nerve in her body. Trent’s hips kept pumping, dragging out her pleasure. He tightened his grip on her hips. “So fucking good!” Her clit was pulsing in time with his quick thrusts. She moaned when he plunged deep one more time then held her hips tightly to his as he cried out in ecstasy. With each spurt of his seed, his cock jumped and rubbed against her cervix. She shuddered in rapture each time. When his body was milked dry, he groaned and rolled them to their sides. His cock never left her body. A tremble moved down her spine when he kissed her ear. “That was awesome,” she whispered. He was by far the best lover she’d ever had. **** Trent couldn’t get over how satisfied he was. She had touched him in a way no other woman ever had. “It was beautiful. You are beautiful. I love your tattoos.” His foot stroked her ankle. “Those flowers twining around your ankle and ending on your foot are sexy.” Trailing his finger down her hip, he followed the starry path that led to the butterfly that looked like it was about to land on her clitoris. Leaning down, he licked the butterfly then kissed it. “The blues and pinks of this butterfly are so beautifully done. It looks real. It is very erotic, the way it looks like it’s about to go for the nectar between your lovely thighs.” He kissed it one more time then scooted up the bed and took her arm. Gazing at the tattoo on her forearm, he traced the long eye-lashed, red-lipped monkey that was looking through

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parted large green leafs. The monkey had a wicked grin, and it had an alligator purse looped through its arm. “This one’s interesting. What’s the deal with it?” “That one reminds me that things are not always as they seem.” “How so?” Trent’s finger steadily traced the interesting image. “The story behind it reminds me to stay alert.” Her voice took on a storytelling flair. “Once upon a time there was a sweet little monkey. She was nice to her neighbors. Always making banana pudding or banana bread, she shared with everyone.” Her voice lowered. “One day while picking some low-hanging bananas, an alligator surged up out of the water and tried to eat her. Trying to make peace with the wild critter, she offered it some bread. It agreed, but when she passed it to him, he tried to eat her again. Knowing she couldn’t live in fear, she asked him to move to a different place. He refused, and she had to take action.” Touching the purse on the tattoo, she continued, “Needless to say she was the cause of his demise. Being a fashionably smart monkey, she made a purse out of his hide.” Locking gazes, she finished, “See, things aren’t always as they seem. The sweet, tiny monkey defeated the large alligator. Just because a situation looks cut and dry doesn’t mean that it is. In this case you’d think the alligator was sure to get a meal, but he didn’t. Sometimes the tables turn and the underdog wins—and in this case gets a purse, to boot.” “That’s very true, but you didn’t tell how the monkey killed the alligator.” “I like to believe she went to her makeup-artist friend, and he made her look so viciously scary that all it took was one evil look from her and the alligator died of fright.” Trent caressed her arm. “I just learned you have a brilliant imagination. One day your kids are going to love you.” A rumble came from Rain’s stomach. Trent kissed her shoulder softly. “Let’s go eat. I have a feeling with the chemistry that’s sparking so strongly between us that we are

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going to need all the energy we can get.” Kissing her lightly on the lips, he smiled down at her then winked wickedly. “I plan on loving you all night long.” **** A loud moan startled Rain. Stepping out of the bathroom, she peered over at the bed, where Trent was moving restlessly. He must have been having one hell of a dream. How he had the energy to even dream, she didn’t know. They’d made love into the early morning hours. Sunlight touching her face had awakened her at two in the afternoon. Feeling sticky and icky, she got up to shower. She had thought about waking Trent, but he looked so peaceful sleeping she’d left him to his beauty sleep. He didn’t look peaceful at all now. He looked tormented. Taking a step closer to the bed, she gasped when he suddenly cried out, “Come back. Joelle, don’t go. Damn it, come back. I can’t live without you. Joelle, I need you. Please come back, baby.” Head thrashing, he mumbled something unintelligible then jerked to a sitting position. Putting his head in his trembling hands, he took deep breaths. Voice trembling, Rain asked, “Are you all right?” His head snapped up, and he stared at her in confusion for a long moment. “Fine.” Getting up, he slid into his pants. “Who’s Joelle?” Rain couldn’t stop herself from asking. His lips tightened into a flat line. “My wife.” Rain almost doubled over at the intense pain that knifed through her core. Turning, she quickly headed back to the bathroom and finished dressing. Getting out of there was her top priority. No way in hell was she about to come between and man and his wife. “Not his wife.” Swiveling her head around, Rain looked to see who was there. Where the hell was that voice coming from? Not having time to worry about it, she hurriedly left the bathroom and exited the suite. She’d

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heard water running in the second bathroom and had been glad she didn’t have to confront him before she left. Tears threatening to spill, she blindly made it to her room. Throwing herself on her bed, she tried to get control of her emotions. Hands shaking, she decided she was a fool. Why hadn’t she asked him if he was married before she’d jumped him? Thank goodness he lived so far from her. She never wanted to see him again. “He’s the one.” “I don’t know who you are, but he is definitely not the one. Take another look, sister. He’s married. And obviously feeling guilty about his cheating ways.” Rain felt stupid speaking to the room, but it also felt good getting this torment off her chest. “He’s the one.” “Good grief. Leave it to me to be haunted by a slow ghost.” Warmth radiated from a touch to her heart. Rain startled and looked nervously around. “He’s the one.” Frozen in place, Rain watched as a beautiful blue-and-purple butterfly flew in from the balcony and landed on her chest where the warmth had emitted from. Heat and peace flowed through her. Jaw hanging open, she watched as it circled her then landed on her shoulder. Its large wings fluttered. The breeze carried the words He’s the one to her heart. Heart pounding in fright and awe, Rain stared at the butterfly as it took flight and flew out to the balcony and out of sight. Running outside, she looked around for the butterfly but saw nothing except for people milling around the hotel grounds and the waves lapping at the bay a distance away. Dropping her body down into a chair on the breezy balcony, she closed her eyes, trying to make sense of what had just happened to her. Crazy, that’s what she was. Grief from making the mistake of letting that big oaf take her heart had to be making her see and hear things. Besides, ghosts were supposed to make a room cold, right? This touch had brought warmth. It was probably just the breeze.

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Not wanting to mope the rest of the day away, Rain decided to go see if Lukah, the tattoo artist she had heard was the best around, could create a work of art for her. One with the colors blue and purple for the bruise to her soul. Some red for the pain of losing her heart. And a blue-and-black peace sign that would remind her of the lost peace she’d once known in his presence. No more flings for her. Toys were much safer.

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Chapter Five Rain squealed when she saw Branda standing in the hotel lobby. Rushing to one another, they hugged each other tightly. Rain winced when Branda patted her on her newly tattooed left shoulder. “I take it you got another tattoo. Let me see it,” Branda said excitedly. Wearing a spaghetti-strapped top under an unbuttoned, lightweight, long-sleeved blouse, Rain easily let the shirt slide down her shoulder. “Oh my. I love it. The artist did a great job.” Calling her fiancé, Troy, over, she pointed at Rain’s tattoo. “Interesting. The butterfly wings look like they are carrying the heart between them away. The colors are nice, too.” Turning to Branda, he said, “I have to see to some things. I’ll be back in two hours so we can get started.” “Sounds good. Rain and I are going to be visiting in her room. See you soon.” Branda raised up on her toes and kissed him quickly before letting him go. Turning back to Rain, Branda looked serious. “Now up to your room. I know there is a story behind that tattoo, and I want to hear it.” Knowing she couldn’t get out of this one, Rain trudged to the elevator. The second they got into the room, Branda demanded, “Take your shirt off. I know it has got to be rubbing your tattoo painfully.” Rain did, thankfully.

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Not one to let things go, Branda went over for a closer look. “The wings are the prettiest shade of blue, and I love the purple designs in the wings. I’ve never seen anything like it, have you?” Rain stiffened for a millisecond. “Yes, a blue and purple butterfly flew into my room yesterday. It was painfully beautiful. Lukah did a good job capturing my description of it.” “Who is Lukah? And did this butterfly have a heart-shaped body with”—Branda leaned closer and looked hard at the tattoo—“peace sign antennae?” Rain rolled her eyes. “Lukah is the tattoo artist. And no, the butterfly didn’t have a heart body or peace-sign antennae.” “Don’t make me pull teeth. Lukah did a wonderful job incorporating the wings, heart, and peace sign. From a distance a person couldn’t tell it’s anything other than a beautiful butterfly. The colors are telling me something. Blue and purple wings, a red heart brushed with purple edges, the interesting antennae are blue. The black outlining the whole thing pulls it all together. Dark colors with a small amount of lighter colors. Tell me what it means. Don’t lie. I know you, remember?” Branda looked determined to ferret out the truth. Rain grimaced. “It reminds me not to have any more flings. That peace can be a lie that bruises your soul, and that your stupid heart can fly away to live with a married man.” Concern clouded Branda’s eyes. “What happened? Did that Trent guy do something to you? Is he the married man your heart fell for?” Tears threatened to spill from Rain’s eyes. “I’m so stupid. I didn’t ask him if he was married before I jumped him in the elevator. He acted like a gentlemen. He was so funny and so hot. It felt really great being around him. I had such a good time with him. I melted like a snowball in hell for him. He’s probably in bed with some other fool right now.” Branda wrapped her arms comfortingly around Rain. “I’m so sorry, honey. I wanted you to have a great time while you were here,

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and now this happened. Do you want me to have Troy and Trey look into it? They’ll beat him up for you.” “No. I don’t want them to know I’m so stupid.” “You are not stupid. You just got caught up in the wonder of being in another country. Lovers come here all the time. It’s not surprising that a few men here take advantage of women visiting the country. It’s not right, though. I wish I could go back in time and save you this heartache.” Branda squeezed Rain one more time then stepped back and headed for the hotel phone. Rain had to smile when Branda ordered them some dessert. In minutes they were eating, and Rain had to admit she felt better. Her heart was still gone, but she could live without it, right? Damn straight, she could. Rain Ramsey could handle anything. **** At the sight of Trent walking into the room designated for the rehearsal dinner, Rain Ramsey crumpled in a dead faint. Hearing muffled voices, Rain floated back to reality. Branda and Sienna, her other best friend, were leaning over her with worried expressions. Glancing to the side, she realized she was laid out on the floor. “Why am I on the floor?” “That’s what we want to know. One minute you were fine. The next you were dropping to the floor. Good thing Gaven was standing close enough to catch you and ease you down to the floor. He went to get a doctor that’s staying here. How do you feel?” “I feel fine, I think. Help me get up.” Rain held out her hand. Sienna took it, but didn’t help her up. “Gaven said to keep you down until he came back with the doctor.” Rain’s mind raced. Something was wrong. She never fainted. What could have caused it? One of Branda’s men knelt down beside her. “Hey, how are you feeling? Gaven and Trent will be back in just a second with a doctor. Okay?”

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Memory flared like a raging bull. “Trent. That snake.” Pushing herself to a sitting position, she looked around. “How many Trents are invited to this wedding?” Branda leaned in. “Only one. Why?” “Is he married?” Horror slashed across Branda’s face. “No. Your Trent can’t be our Trent. Our Trent is not married, and he is super nice. There has to be a mistake.” “I need to get up.” Rain started pushing herself up, and Trey grabbed hold of her arm and helped her up. Guiding her to a chair near a table, he helped her sit. Sienna brought her a glass of water. Taking a sip of her water, Rain decided her Trent couldn’t be Branda’s soon-to-be brother-in-law. She was just probably seeing her Trent in other men because she had fallen so hard for him. A commotion at the door drew her attention. Her eyes widened then narrowed. Her Trent just walked in with Gaven and another man. To her satisfaction Trent stopped dead in his tracks when he got a good look at her. Not able to hold his gaze, she looked at her hands instead. He was at the hotel because he was part owner of it and two others as well. His family also owned two bookstores. One of which Branda had met Troy at. Could this get any worse? Pretty soon all of her friends were going to know she’d fallen for him like a dim-witted fool. The doctor caught her attention as he introduced himself as Dr. Daniels. She tried to brush him off, but he insisted on checking her vital signs. When those came out fine, he recommended she rest and have a thorough checkup with her doctor as soon as possible. Needing to gain her composure, she excused herself, saying she just needed a little time alone. Walking past Trent, she couldn’t look at him. It was just too painful. Branda and Sienna wouldn’t let her go to her room alone. They fussed over her the whole trip up to her room. Their voices were just background noise. Tears threatened. Her mind whirled.

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Once they were in the room, Rain turned to Branda. “Are you sure your Trent isn’t married?” “Very sure.” He’d lied to her to get rid of her. Rain knew she wasn’t doing a good job hiding her pain from her friends. It just hurt too damn bad. “Don’t tell me your Trent is my Trent,” Branda pleaded. “Okay, I won’t.” The stricken look on Branda’s face made Rain feel worse. “Your Trent is the hot guy Rain was seeing.” Sienna was putting it all together. Branda took a few cleansing breaths. “Wait. This can’t be right. Tell me what happened that made you think he was married.” “I walked out of the bathroom when I heard him talking. Come to find out he was talking in his sleep. Calling out for someone named Joelle. He woke a moment after he quit calling out to her. When he saw me, I asked him who Joelle was, and his exact words were ‘My wife.’” Sienna grimaced. Branda looked sad. “Oh, Rain, I’m sorry that happened to you. Joelle was his fiancée and best friend. She died in the wreck that put that scar on his cheek. He’s never gotten over not dying with her.” Branda hugged Rain tightly. “He’s really a good guy. You just caught him at vulnerable time. Just waking up from a nightmare and seeing a woman he now felt guilty about having a good time with. He was hurting when he told you he was married. Try to forgive him. He’s been through a lot. In his heart his true love is dead, but she’s not. The blessing on their family would never let her die. Please forgive him.” Warmth surrounded Rain. Her mind pulled up the memory of the voice that tried to tell her Trent wasn’t married. “Not his wife.” The voiced echoed in her head. “He’s the one,” was whispered close to her ear. She turned, but no one was there. Branda and Sienna were on her other side.

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A knock sounded at the door, and they all three jumped. The intensity of the situation had all their nervous systems on alert. Branda went to the door and looked out the peephole. Opening it, she held the door wide. “Come on, Sienna, Rain has company. See you two in a little bit.” Sienna’s lips formed a perfect O when she saw Trent. Hurrying after Branda, she left the room and closed the door behind her. Rain turned her back on him, pissed at her body for the waves of peace that washed over her heart when he walked in. “You can leave. We have nothing to talk about. I believe our time was over anyway. Besides, I never date men that have dated my friends or who are kin to my friends’ lovers. Like I said, you can leave now.” “I see you are feeling better. I’m glad. Rain is a unique name. If I’d known it, I could have found you yesterday. I asked at the desk if we had an Elian booked here and was disappointed to be told no. Then I asked if anyone had seen a small strawberry blonde with blue eyes. Karen, the reservations manager, looked at me like I’d gone crazy. Then she reminded of the Blondes Aren’t Dumb Convention that was going on. Everyone working at the hotel has been looking at almost nothing but blondes for the last few days.” Moving up behind her, he touched her shoulder. “I’m sorry I couldn’t find you to apologize.” He took a shaky breath. “I’m not married, but sometimes I feel like am. Joelle was my fiancée and best friend. Can you forgive me?” His words were like balm to her tattered soul, until she remembered his two-day fling rule. That thought made her chest ache. Her stupid abuse me side wanted to jump him and beg him to fuck her again. It was official. She was pathetic. Realizing he was waiting for an answer, she came out of her musing. “Yes, no problem. I knew you wouldn’t want to see me again after our two days together.” “Yeah, we shouldn’t see each other again.” His words didn’t match his husky I want to get you naked tone.

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Rain turned around and looked up at him then licked her dry lips. “Tha-that’s a good idea. I never date men that are kin to my friends.” But damn it, she wanted to do more than date him. She wanted to keep him. “There is something about you.” Lowering his head, he kissed her tenderly. Unable to stop herself, she melted into him. The kiss deepened, and she lost focus on everything except the taste and smell of him. Tugging up his shirt, she slid her hands under it and pressed her palms against his chest. Heaven. A ringing sound broke through the haze of her mind. Trent kept kissing her as he dug his phone out of his pocket. Once it was free, he clicked a button to stop the annoying ringing. Still kissing her, he seemed to forget about the phone. The haze was taking her over again, as well. His lips nibbled and teased hers while his free hand slid down to her butt and pulled her in closer. “Damn, you taste good, babe.” Groaning, he slanted his mouth over hers and deepened the kiss. “Trent—Trent. I can hear you kissing her. Stop it and get your ass down here and bring Rain with you. Don’t make me come up there.” Trent groaned then hung up the phone, not even answering his brother. “We better go before Troy comes up here. Don’t think this is over. We still need to figure out what’s going on between us. We may be done with each other, but the spark is unfortunately still there.” Expression softening, he asked, “Are you feeling well enough to go back to the rehearsal? If not, you don’t have to. I’ll stay here with you.” “I’m fine now. My blood pressure probably just dropped or something. Too much excitement for Branda, Troy, and Trey. I’ll be fine.” No way would she confess that the sight of him had made her drop away into a dead faint.

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Large hands cupped her head, and his lips descended upon hers in a quick, possessive kiss. “I’m glad you’re feeling better. Let me know immediately if you start feeling bad again. Let’s go, fiery angel.” Dumbfounded by his kiss and possessive tone, Rain let him lead her from the room. Part of her wanted to tell him to go to hell with his caveman ways, but another part of her wanted him to throw her over his wide shoulder and take her straight to his house. Could she get any more messed up?

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Chapter Six Rain fumbled her way through the wedding rehearsal. Shock, heartache, and lust circled her mind and body. Trying to look cheerful, she smiled and listened to everyone around her. As the evening wore on, her head started to ache. All she wanted to do was escape to her room. They had already gone through the rehearsal, and now she found herself sitting at a table in the hotel trying to choke her food down. Trent sat across from her, openly staring at her. He had done the same thing during the rehearsal. Sienna was his partner to walk down the aisle with, and Trey was hers, so at least that gave her a little breathing space away from him as she tried to figure out what she should do about him. Absently rubbing her aching temple, she smiled at Branda then took a bite of food. Good grief, one little fainting spell and everyone was watching her like a hawk searching for food. A firm touch on her shoulder had her looking up into Trent’s worried eyes. “You look like you need these.” Rain looked at his hand as he uncurled his fingers and revealed three pain relievers. She wanted to cry. He was thoughtful, handsome, messed up, and out of reach. “Thanks.” Reaching for the pills, her fingers grazed his hand and sparks flew. Her nipples hardened and stood out as if looking for the source of the sparks that had brought them to life. After taking the pills, she looked to see Trent frowning down at her. “What? I said thanks.”

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“You didn’t question the pills I gave you. Being naïve is a bad thing. What if I had just given you a deadly drug or a date rape drug?” Feeling lightning race up her spine, she spit out, “Who is being naïve now? Number one, the name of the pain reliever company was on the pills. Number two, you have already had me. And more than that, you have had me the maximum amount of times you allow yourself to have a woman.” His eyes flickered. “Just be more careful. The pills could have been dipped in something to knock you out. I might be done with you, but there are other men out there just waiting to trick and jump an unsuspecting woman.” He was done with her. No. She was done with him. “For someone who is so done with me, you sure do stare at me a lot. Do you stalk all the lovers you are done with?” Anger flushed his cheeks. “If I was stalking you, you would know it. The only reason I was watching you was to make sure you didn’t faint again.” Leaning in close to her ear, he whispered, “The question now is, why were you watching me?” Before she could think of a sharp comeback, he strolled away from her and joined his friends by the minibar. His question had her wondering the same thing. Why was she watching him so closely? Why did the sight of him do crazy things to her libido and her heart? Trying to get through the evening as fast as possible, she got a piece of pie and ate it as she talked to her friends. As soon as her pie was gone, she pleaded a headache and went to her room. Thanks to Trent, her headache was better, but her mood was lousy. Maybe some sleep would fix her up. **** Trent scanned the many people at the wedding. His gaze landed on Branda’s dad. Two hours ago he had shown up while they were all having a light snack and drink before the wedding. He smiled as he

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remembered Branda’s excited face. She had dragged him to their table then immediately shifted gears from happiness to concern. Her words still rang in his ears. “Maybe you shouldn’t have come. Mom is going to be livid with you. Since she disowned me for loving Troy and Trey, she is not going to like you spending money to come see us heathens, as she calls us, get married.” Letting his eyes drift about the room, he remembered her father’s response. “I love your mother, but she was wrong to disown you. I might give in to her most of the time, but never on this. I love you, Branda. Troy and Trey seem like fine men. I may not understand your relationship with them, but I know you love them, and that’s all I need to know. I wouldn’t have missed your wedding for all the gold in the world. I love you, honey.” Yep, Branda’s dad had moved up a few notches on the respect ladder, as far as he was concerned. The music started playing again, and his eyes moved to his brother and Rain as they walked down the aisle. Trent watched Rain walk closer and closer to him. His heart started flipping and flopping as violently as a fish out of water. An insane need to see her walk down the aisle in a wedding dress toward him slammed into his brain and chest at the same time. Gulping in a jagged breath of air, he reminded himself that his bride was dead. He wouldn’t be able to make anyone as happy as he could have made her. Needing to look at someone else, he turned his gaze to Trey, who was walking Rain toward them. His brother seemed a little too dominant and not nearly playful enough. As he separated from Rain and took his place to Trent’s right, Trent knew without a doubt that his twin brothers had switched places. Very few people would know them apart. Keeping a grin from his face was difficult as he watched Trey walk down the aisle and stand in as the groom. What were they up to? Branda came out next, being led by her father. Trent’s eyes cut back to the now-empty chair he’d seen her dad in a short time ago. His heart lightened. Her dad showing up was perfect. He knew it

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meant a lot to Branda to have him here giving her away. Branda looked beautiful as she stepped up next to Trey. Her white, lacy dress complimented her body beautifully. His brothers were lucky men. Trent watched as her eyes widened slightly then cut over to Troy. The bouquet trembled lightly in her hand. She didn’t say a thing, and the wedding went off without a hitch. After each said “I do” and a lengthy kiss had been given by the groom to the bride, they all followed the bride and groom to the large room next door. When the family was all present, the preacher called the newly married couple over to sign the marriage license. Watching the twins closely, Trent noted that Troy was the one who signed the papers with Branda. Now he knew why the twins had dressed in identical tuxes. Branda had been afraid Trey would feel left out of their circle of love if he didn’t get to marry her. His brothers had assured her all was well. The sneaky smart-asses had figured out how both of them could marry her. From her expression when she had realized she was physically marrying Trey, he knew she hadn’t had a clue what they were up to. Her eyes sparkled as Troy signed on the dotted line. Trent was not surprised when the signing was done and Troy pulled Branda into his arms and kissed his new wife with the same passion Trey had just done moments before. The three were now whole. Swallowing hard, he tried not to think of his bleak future, a future without the one meant for him. “Rain.” The name whispered through his head. He shook it and decided someone in the wedding party must have said her name. He needed to get a grip and get over her, the sooner, the better. Right then and there he decided not to touch her again. **** Three hours later Trent was in his room stripping Rain’s clothes off her delicious body.

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Feeding his hand through her hair, he cupped her head and slanted his lips across hers in a fierce kiss. A moan escaped her throat, turning him on even more. All through the reception he’d had trouble thinking of anything other than getting Rain to his room and stripping her down. The power she had over him frustrated him. Maybe if he had her one more time, he’d be able to walk away from her. As he drank in her taste, he slowly backed her up to the bed. “Climb on, babe.” As she eased to the center of the bed, he quickly flung his clothes off. “You are the hottest woman I’ve ever had.” “Well, you are the hottest man I’ve ever had, so come over here and let me enjoy you one more time.” Her sexy laugher floated over him as he climbed on the bed and took her foot in his hand. She squealed in surprise when he kissed the ball of her foot then moaned when he kissed her from arch to ankle. “You know we shouldn’t be doing this. You are kin to my best friend.” Trent put her foot down and kissed his way up her body. Once he was face-to-face with her, he took her lips in a deep, hungry kiss. He didn’t pull back until she ran her hands down his back. Oh, how he loved her touch. He rested his cock in the niche between her splayed legs. “I know we shouldn’t because I’ve already given you your allotted time. You should be happy.” He knew that would rile her up. She slapped his ass. “I should be happy? You should be happy. I never have sex with friends’ kin.” With a forward thrust, his cock bumped her clit. She moaned and squirmed beneath him. Damn, that was hot. Something inside him couldn’t seem to let her go. “I should probably find another room.” He pumped his hips and groaned into her ear at the pure pleasure of pressing his dick into her wet slit.

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A shudder shook her body, and she wrapped her legs around him. “I think that would be a good idea.” She grabbed his hair and pulled his mouth to hers. Goose bumps dotted his skin when she nipped his lip then licked the sting away. To his surprise, she unwrapped her legs from around his waist and pushed him away. He let his body fall back on the bed and smiled when she straddled his hips. So, she wanted to play. He was game. “I don’t think we should have sex, but that doesn’t mean we can’t play with each other.” Her eyes had darkened seductively. “You can play with me anytime you like.” The sight of her was making his balls ache to release his cum deep in her sweet little body. Her eyes darted to the headboard, and a smile crossed her lovely face. “Grab the headboard and don’t let go no matter what I do.” Groaning, he moved his hands up and grabbed the cool metal. Damn, he loved it when she turned into a playful nymph. He moaned when she leaned forward and suckled his nipple. “Oh yeah, that’s it babe.” Rain’s small teeth nipped his nipple, and he tried to think of anything but how good her weight felt pressing into his cock. Nectar from her heavenly pussy dripped onto his dick. She suddenly sat up and removed one of her earrings. What was she up to? At the shifting of her hips, he didn’t care as long he got to bury his cock in her real soon. “Clip-on earrings can be loads of fun.” Her eyes cut toward his pebbled nipple. He shook his head. “I don’t know about that.” She ground her cunt into his dick and smiled when he moaned. “Playing means trying new things. I think you are going to like it.” She moved the earring closer to his tight nipple. “Don’t move and don’t let go of the bed.” Was he nuts or what? All he wanted to do was make her happy. If she wanted to play, he’d let her play. The earring probably wouldn’t

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do anything for him. She leaned closer and clamped the earring to his nipple. Fire shot straight to his balls. Holy shit! His cock jerked in need. In a quick move he released the headboard and grabbed her hips. The tip of his dick zoned in on her entrance, and he pulled her down as his hips came up. Pure heaven. “You cheated,” she accused, then flicked the earring. More fire shot to his balls. “Do that again.” She laughed and did it again. With a thrust of his hips, he had her moaning. Sliding his hands up her body, he stopped at her breasts. When he pinched her nipples, she threw her head back and rode him hard. Sweat popped out on his forehead as he bucked beneath her. Needing more, he rolled her under him and pounded into her sweet little cunt. Her whole body tightened. “Oh, Trent…” Convulsions of release rocked her body. He lightly stroked her clit to keep her there for a long time. As he pumped into her, the earring swung back and forth, sending pleasure straight to his groin. The combination of sensations mixed with the love-dazed look in her eyes had him following her to ecstasy. With a loud growl he came hard, filling her with his life-giving seed.

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Chapter Seven Rain looked around Gaven’s pub. She wondered what Trent was doing. They had been home for two weeks already. He’d called her twice, and she’d called him once. Keeping it friendly, they just talked about neutral subjects. For some unexplained reason, she always felt at peace when she talked to him. It was strange, but in this hectic world she’d take any peace she could get, especially from a hottie like him. Picking up her burger, she took a bite then glanced over at her sister, Tamrisk. She hoped her sister didn’t notice anything different about her. They hadn’t talked since she’d gone to Italy. “How did the wedding go?” Tamrisk asked. Nodding her head, Rain answered, “It was good. Branda looked beautiful, of course. I’m very happy for Branda, Troy, and Trey. They are happy together, so I’m happy for them.” “Wow, that was a lot of happys.” Tamrisk narrowed her eyes. “You look different. Did you meet someone while you were in Italy?” Why did Tamrisk always have to see through people? She should have known she couldn’t get away with not telling her. Rain shrugged her shoulder. “I did meet a man, but he is not for me. That’s why I didn’t bring it up. How did your trip go?” Tamrisk smiled. “I don’t think so. I want details, all the details.” “There’s not much to tell. I met a man, we went out a few times, and then I found out he is Branda’s brother-in-law. You know my rule about not dating friends’ kin.” Rain shrugged. “End of story.” “I’m sorry. If you like him enough, maybe you should break your rule.”

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“Oh no. Trent and I agreed we shouldn’t see each other anymore. Now tell me how the show went.” Rain quickly changed the subject. Talking about Trent was a little too painful. “It was great. Now back to this Trent guy, why do you think it would be bad to date him?” Dang, that diversion didn’t last long. “I don’t know. For one thing he doesn’t seriously date.” “If he is nice and hot enough, change his mind.” Tamrisk wiggled her eyebrows. “Use what you got.” Rain rolled her eyes and tried to hide her pain. “And what happens if I catch him and then he wants a houseful of babies?” Smiling sadly, she continued, “You know the doctors say I don’t have many eggs and that the chance of me having even one baby is a long shot. He comes from a large family. They would expect him to have kids. Why torture him and myself? My last two split shortly after finding out I’m not a baby maker. I just can’t do it again.” Tamrisk reached out and took Rain’s hand. “Not all men are like that, and to be honest, the second one left you for a hot guy. Hell, I would have left you for that juicy hunk of beef.” Rain tried to lighten the mood. “I guess I would have left me, too, for that piece of prime meat.” Squeezing her sister’s hand, she added, “Don’t worry about me. I might settle down one of these days, but the man will have to love me enough not to want children.” Rain’s heart constricted at that thought and nausea rolled through her stomach. Concern darkened Tamrisk’s eyes. “Are you okay? All of a sudden you looked kind of sick.” Rubbing her stomach, Rain took a deep breath. “I think I’m okay, my stomach feels a little bad. I’m sure it will feel better soon. Have you been dating anyone?” “No. One of these days I’ll find the right guy, but I’m not in a hurry.” A small cry caught Rain’s and Tamrisk’s attention. Scanning the room, they spotted a little boy of around five standing outside the

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men’s restroom. He was sniffling as he wrestled with the snap of his jeans. Poor little guy. Rain looked at Tamrisk. They bobbed their hands three times. Tamrisk’s hand was flat when she stopped. Rain’s hand had formed the shape of rock. Tamrisk smiled. “Paper covers rock. Looks like you are up.” Just when Rain was about to leave the table to go help the little boy, Marshall, the pub’s manager, walked up to the little guy and knelt in front of him. Rain and Tamrisk watched Marshall handle the situation. “What’s the matter, little guy?” “I’m supposed to be big.” “You are big,” Marshall stated. Watery eyes looked into Marshall’s face. “I’m not big enough to snap my pants, and I can’t go back to my maw-maw until I do. Her hands don’t work so good anymore.” Marshall patted the boy on the shoulder. “It’s all right, I’ll help you out. My hands still work fine.” Within a second Marshall had the boy snapped up. “Where is your maw-maw?” The boy pointed her out, and Marshall smiled. “Go on over to her. This will be our little secret. Keep trying and soon you’ll be able to snap your pants every time.” Marshall ruffled the boy’s hair affectionately then watched as he returned to his grandmother’s table. Rain and Tamrisk watched as Marshall surveyed the room then turned to go back to back to whatever task he’d been doing. When his eyes landed on Tamrisk, he stopped and stared. Passion flared in his eyes. He cleared his throat then nodded his head. Rain wasn’t about to let him leave. She had noted her sister’s response was as strong as his. Rain waved him over. “Hi, Marshall, this is my little sister, Tamrisk. Tamrisk, this is Marshall. He’s the manager here and a friend of Gaven, Troy, and Trey’s.” Marshall reached out to shake Tamrisk’s hand. Rain smiled when they both startled on first contact.

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“It’s nice to meet you, Tamrisk.” Marshall stared deeply into her eyes. “If you ever need anything, just let me know.” With effort he swung his eyes around to Rain. “I better go. If you need anything, I’ll be here.” He looked down at his hand and realized he hadn’t released Tamrisk’s hand. “Oh, um, sorry.” He released her hand reluctantly. “It was nice to meet you.” They both watched as he hurried upstairs. “I like him. His eyes twinkle. He seems like a good guy, and I know he can handle children.” Tamrisk’s blue eyes stared at the nowempty stairs. “He is a good man. A good unattached man.” Rain watched her sister blush at her words. Hmm. She’d have to remember to get these two together again real soon. The sparks were practically shooting off them. It was a wonder she hadn’t been burned. The ringing of her phone drew her attention to it. Tamrisk motioned toward the restroom, and Rain nodded her understanding as she answered the phone. Watching her sister walk away, she started plotting. “Hello.” “Rain, I’m having a party here at the house in two weeks. You can come, can’t you? It wouldn’t be as much fun without you.” Branda’s voice was full of hope. “Is Trent going to be there?” Rain asked. Branda hesitated. “Yes, but it’s a large house. You two never have to be in the same room unless you want to. You two don’t hate each other, do you?” Rain sighed. “No, we don’t hate each other. I’ll come if you’ll invite Marshall and Tamrisk.” “Marshall is on the guest list, and Tamrisk would have been if I’d known she was in town, and now that I know, she is on the list. What’s up between them? Are you matchmaking? I love matchmaking.”

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“Let’s just say I have a hunch that they will make a good couple. Oh, here she comes. I have to let you go. What day and time is the party?” “In two weeks on a Saturday night at seven o’clock. It’s a partytill-you-drop party. Once you have a drink, you have to give up your keys. We have plenty of room for everyone to sleep over. I can’t wait. It’s going to be so much fun,” Branda responded in an excited voice. “Sounds perfect. I’ll tell Tamrisk, and we will see you soon.” “I know you can’t talk right now, so call me later with all the details,” Branda said in a giggly voice. “You bet,” Rain responded, then hung up and turned to Tamrisk. “Looks like we are going to a party in two weeks. I know you love a good party.” Tamrisk grinned. “Whose party is it?” “Branda’s.” Tamrisk clapped her hands. “I love Branda’s and Sienna’s parties, they are always fun. We should help her decorate. I need some fun before I hit the road again.” Rain agreed and smiled. While she talked to Tamrisk, she made plans. She would do whatever she could to make sure Tamrisk and Marshall had a chance to spark again. Thinking of sparks, she couldn’t help but wonder what Trent was doing. **** Trent carefully placed the flowers on the freshly cut grass that covered Joelle’s grave. Kneeling in front of her marker, he let his finger trace then retrace her name. Tears slowly slid down his cheeks. Leaning forward, he kissed her name. “I miss you.” He took a shuddering breath. “I have a confession. I’ve done a bad thing. I let this girl get too close to me. I think about

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her too much.” A painful knot formed in his throat. “I wish you were here.” He raked his fingers through the grass that covered her grave. “Why did you have to die? Why couldn’t I die with you?” Trent laid down on her grave and stared up at the sky. “Today I had to look at your picture because I couldn’t remember the curve of your face. I feel like you are slipping away from me, and I can’t do anything about it. I can’t lose you.” He swallowed hard. “If I could go back in time, we wouldn’t go out that night and I’d have you back in my arms, where you belong.” His hands clenched into fists. “You don’t belong here. I’m so sorry I didn’t save you. Can you forgive me?” A sound to his right made him stop talking and look over at an old man placing flowers by a grave. He looked sad. Trent could relate. In a whisper, he continued, “I remember the first time I saw you. My heart stopped, I swear. Your smile lit my world.” A picture of Rain smiling popped into his head, and he guiltily pushed it away. “Today is your birthday. I bet you thought I would forget.” He sat up and dug in his pocket. “I brought you something.” He held up a small ring in a plastic ball then set it on the ground. Retrieving his knife from his pocket, he dug a hole over the spot where her hands would be and dropped the ring in then covered it up. After replacing his knife, he lay on his side with his head propped in his hand. “It’s purple with a pink heart. I knew you would love it. I got it from the gumball machine at the corner store near my house. I had to try eight times to get the right one. A little girl was standing there watching me closely. She smiled the prettiest smile as I handed her the other seven.” A tear trickled down his cheek, and he wiped it away. “At least it didn’t take twenty-six tries to get the right one. Twenty-six. If you were here, I’d give you twenty-six kisses. Remember I gave you twenty-two kisses when you turned twenty-two. We went to that restaurant, and the waiter and waitress sang ‘Happy Birthday to You.’

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I thought they did a good job.” His hand moved to his chest. “I gave you that heart necklace and told you I’d never give my heart to another.” The lump in Trent’s throat grew agonizingly large and forced him to stop talking. Sitting up and glancing around, he watched the older man amble away. Several people were milling around the cemetery. Some just seemed to be looking at all the headstones, possibly looking for a relative that died a long time ago. Others were putting flowers in front of some of the graves. They were all pretty far away from him. Looking back at Joelle’s headstone, he stared at her name then the angel above it. “This girl I met recently, she tried to get my heart. She didn’t know I gave it to you a long time ago.” He paused and ran his hand through his hair. “I hope you’re not mad at me for going out with her. Something strange drew me to her. She’s different. I think you would have liked her. She’s funny and cute. I won’t see her again though because I don’t have anything inside to give her. She needs more.” Sorrow clawed at his chest, and he jumped to his feet. Breathing heavily, his body shuddered in agony. His eyes scanned her engraved name. “I need you, damn it. You can’t be gone.” With shaky hands, he grabbed his hair. “I can’t keep on going like I am. What should I do?” Pain gripped his heart like a vise. The wind picked up. “Kiss the girl.” Trent released his hair and snapped his head from left to right. A frown marred his brow. No one was there, but he had heard the words plainly. Kiss the girl. He looked at the headstone. Swallowing hard, he wished he could kiss the girl, Joelle. “If I could kiss you again, I would.” “Rain.” A scowl darkened Trent’s face. Someone was messing with him, and he didn’t like it. Glancing around, he tried to find the owner of the voice he kept hearing. “Go away. I don’t think you are funny at all,” Trent shouted with fisted hands. A crack of thunder answered him, and then rain poured down on him. He stood there for a few

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minutes letting his tears meld with the rain. The two liquids mingled. They sped down his agony-contorted face and dripped onto his shoes. A warm wind circled him and brought the cleansing scent of fresh rain. Rain. The thought of the blue-eyed beauty brought on a fresh wave of guilt. “I’m sorry,” he whispered to the grave, then turned and slowly walked away. Rain washed over him, but he paid it no mind. His heart hurt too much to feel anything except for chest-piercing pain. He stumbled, and a strong hand reached out to steady him. Trent looked up to see his older brothers standing in front of him. They each gave him a hug then silently guided him through the pouring rain to their trucks. When he fished his keys out of his pocket, Trey took them from him. “Not today, little bro. Troy is going to take you home. I’ll drive your truck,” Trey stated then headed for Trent’s truck. Trent and Troy climbed into Troy’s truck. Staring straight forward, Trent said softly, “I miss her, you know.” “She was a nice girl. I hate it that she died.” Troy paused for a moment. “I’m begging you to move on, Trent. You can’t keep doing this to yourself year after year. Joelle wouldn’t want you to do this to yourself. She loved life, and she would want you to live yours to the fullest. There is another girl out there waiting for you. It’s time you started looking for her.” Troy’s voice was compassionate but firm. Trent clenched his jaw. “You want me to forget Joelle?” He knew he was being unreasonable, but right now he hurt too damned bad to care. “No, I don’t want you to forget her. I want you to remember the good times you had together, but I also want you to start living again. I want you to start looking for your vero amore. She’s still out there waiting for you. The family blessing is real. One of these days you’ll know I’m telling you the truth.” Troy sighed. “Let’s go have a drink.

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We could all use some loosening up. Branda made a batch of cookies just for you. She knows how much you like them.” Trent sat in brooding silence as Troy drove home. Was Troy right? Was his true love still out there waiting for him? What about Joelle? He had thought she was the one for him. He had never given her the licking kiss required to find out for sure. What if she hadn’t been the one? His head started to hurt. Rubbing his temples, he tried to figure it all out. Troy pulled up to the large family home they all shared. Trent headed straight to his room to change out of his wet clothes. A warm smile tugged at his lips when he saw the tray on his bed. It had cookies and a White Russian on it. Leave it to Branda to leave him cookies and adult flavored milk. With a lighter heart, he changed then went to the bed and sampled the drink and a cookie, perfect as always. Too bad life was rarely perfect. Guilt had been eating at him for years, and he didn’t know how to stop it. Swallowing hard, he let his eyes drift to the tray. For his family he’d try to move on, try to overcome the guilt—of being alive.

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Chapter Eight Trent surveyed the room. Everyone seemed to be having a good time. The house was pretty full. People were milling around in the back living room and by the pool for the most part. He could see through the back door that his cousins, Cason and Carlo, were making drinks at the bar close to the pool. Those two loved to make drinks. He was sure everyone was going to have a headache in the morning. Everyone’s keys had been taken when they had arrived, and the party was in full swing. He looked at his watch. It was midnight already. Time really does fly when you’re having a good time. Troy walked by, and a drop of water fell from his beer bottle onto Trent’s arm. That had him glancing outside again. Ever since he’d come back from Italy, a rain cloud seemed to be targeting him. The sun would be shining, and the second he’d walk outside rain would fall on his head. That was strange, but today the strange factor had increased. When he’d been rained on today, the scent of Rain’s sweet body had filled his nostrils. Marshall walked around a chair and up to him. “Have you seen Tamrisk?” A knowing grin curled his lips. “She’s in the kitchen with Rain and Branda. They are making up some minisandwiches to soak up some of the alcohol Cason and Carlo are pouring.” After a quick glance at the sky, Trent walked outside and sat at the patio table. Marshall followed suit. “Spit it out, man. I know you want to ask me something. We are all friends here.” Trent stared straight at Marshall.

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Marshall looked up as Gaven and his friend, Lunn, took a seat at the table. Trent glanced at the other men then looked back at Marshall. “It’s okay. Lunn is a good friend of ours, and now that he’s back, you will be seeing a lot of him. He can keep a secret.” Lunn smiled. “That I can.” “Spill. You are starting to look white as a ghost,” Gaven said. “It’s just that I like Tamrisk, but we all know I’m too ugly for her. But Rain keeps putting us together.” Marshall looked ill. “Matchmaking, women do it all the time,” Lunn stated knowingly. “Have you noticed Tamrisk recoiling in horror every time she’s around you?” Trent asked. “Well, no.” Marshall’s tone was full of confusion. “Then I guess she doesn’t think you are too ugly for her. Go for it, man,” Gaven encouraged. Cason came to the table. “Yeah, go for it.” Cason looked Marshall up and down. “If I were a girl, I’d go for you. You are strong, and you have a job. I’ve gotten some for those reasons alone. Never question it. Just take what’s offered.” Carlo came over and sat next to Cason. “Yeah, look at Gaven with his black eye and missing front tooth. When that pretty little thing in the pool said she’d come to this party with him and Lunn, he didn’t say no.” “She’s a sub from Lunn’s club. She probably agreed to come hoping to get her membership dues lowered. But did Gaven care? No. He happily showed up with her on his arm.” Cason turned to Gaven and continued, “What happened to you, and when are you going to get your tooth replaced? You look a little scary.” “I just had a little trouble on my last vacation. I plan on getting my tooth replaced in two weeks. And no, Cindy is not trying to get a discount by being seen with me in my current state. She’s a sweet little sub just out having a good time,” Gaven responded.

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“She’s in training, so don’t be surprised if she kneels at Lunn’s feet every so often,” Trent stated as he eyed Cason and Carlo. “Kneel at your feet. Maybe that’s one club I should join,” Cason said, wonder dominating his tone. “Down boy, it’s a private club. If you are lucky, Lunn may invite you one of these days,” Gaven threw in. “Your dates seem to be getting along rather well with Cindy,” Lunn stated as he watched the three women in the pool. “Thank goodness, happy women are easier to please and more likely to please you back,” Cason stated as he turned to watch the women. “Someday I’d like to see your club, Lunn. Gaven says it’s a nice place, secure as well,” Marshall said. “It is. You been to many BDSM clubs?” Lunn asked. Marshall looked into Lunn’s eyes. “A few.” Lunn studied Marshall for a moment, then stated, “I see. Why are you afraid of Tamrisk?” Marshall’s lips tightened for a brief second. “She’s different.” “I see. You’ll have to bring her to the club one night,” Lunn responded. “I’d like to check it out first, if you don’t mind,” Marshall said. “I totally agree. You can never be too careful with your sub,” Lunn answered. “I’m glad you feel that way.” Marshall nodded his head lightly and then took a drink of his beer. “What are Troy and Trey doing?” Cason asked. “They are getting the dartboard set up in the back living room,” Trent replied, even though his thoughts were on Rain and what he’d like to do to her hot body. “Oh yeah.” Cason rubbed his hands together. “Strip darts.” Branda stepped over to the table with a gleam in her eyes. “That sounds great, Cason. When are you guys going to start?” Cason frowned. “You girls are going to play, too, right?”

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Branda grinned. “Not on your life. This party was my idea. I say we girls kick back and watch the show.” With a raised brow, she added, “Let’s see how well you do.” Branda turned to Rain, who had just come outside. “Who do you think will be naked first?” Rain looked the men over then cut her eyes to Cason and grinned. “Depends on who can handle the darts the best. How is your game, Cason?” Cason scowled. “I’ve gotten better. Carlo hasn’t been practicing at all.” He cut his eyes over to Branda. “Come on, Branda. Let the girls play. They all want to.” Branda laughed. “Go inside, Cason. Get your game on.” Carlo got up and headed for the house. He bumped Cason’s shoulder. “I plan on losing so Annie can see my muscles.” “That’s a good idea,” Cason responded with enthusiasm. Branda turned to Rain. “They never stop.” Trent wished his heart would stop wildly beating at his ribcage every time he saw Rain. They had decided not to have sex anymore, but his body hadn’t gotten the message yet. Damn, he was hard for her. They had made a decision, and he planned to stick with it. He was strong enough to stay away from her. No more sex, no more sex. **** The girls decided to just watch the show. Rain was having a blast, except when she looked at Trent. Dang, he was hot. Every time he threw a dart and smiled at his brothers, she wanted to jump him. Down girl, she told herself, he is off-limits. No jumping and riding Branda’s brother-in-law. No matter how hot he was. After the first round, Carlo, the purposeful loser, walked over to his date and slowly removed his shirt to the beat of the music playing in the background.

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Enthusiastically, Annie played along. She moaned as she ran her hands up the sides of his hard belly, then leaned forward and kissed his bellybutton. Carlo groaned. “Oh yeah, baby.” Leaning down, he took her mouth in a long, deep kiss. “Carlo, quit trying to make us all jealous, and get your butt back over here. This time try harder,” Cason reprimanded. Then he quickly lost the next round so he could take his shirt off for Lucy, his date. She played along and kissed his belly then nipped at one of his nipples. Two hours later Rain figured she’d never laughed and panted that much in her life. A flash of Cason tweaking Gaven’s nipple had her grinning. That was something she’d never forget. Gaven had handled it with his natural laid-back attitude. He’d groaned and complimented Cason’s nipple-hardening abilities. She surveyed the room. Carlo was down to his boxer briefs. Cason was wearing jeans and one sock. Those two had steadily put on a show. Who knew they could move like male strippers. Marshall was down to jeans and one sock as well. His arm muscles were amazing, and Rain couldn’t help but notice how Tamrisk’s eyes never left them. Troy and Trey were stripped down to jeans. Their muscles flexed with every move they made, and of course Branda couldn’t keep her hands off them. She could relate to Branda’s need to touch a Cortino male. Looking back at the group, her eyes landed Gaven. Holding his sides, he was laughing hard at something Cason said. He was showing off plenty of muscles himself. He was a big flirt, grinning every time he had to remove some clothing. Even with his tooth missing, he was cute. If she wasn’t so attracted to Trent, she’d be swayed by Gaven’s playfulness and good looks. Lunn was another piece of muscular artwork. His six-pack was unbelievable, but once again, it was Trent that held her attention. He ended the game almost fully dressed. He

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was now barefoot, but that was all. The least he could have done was lose a few rounds so she could ogle him. Her mind pulled up a picture of him naked and looming over her. She smiled to herself right before she was pulled out of her fantasy by the booing women. Focusing on the women and men, she realized that the men were putting their clothes back on. Disappointed, she booed with the other women. Poor Sienna had missed one hell of a party. Their friend was going to be green with envy and blue with sorrow when she heard about it. Now that the show was over, the group headed back outside and all took up seats near the table and minibar. Carlo and Cason took turns making mixed drinks for the girls. The guys just drank beer. The dart game was the main subject for quite a while, but as things cooled down, Cason and Carlo took their dates over to the lounges by the pool and most of the others drifted in and out. The music kept the party pulsing with life. Branda tugged on Rain’s arm then leaned in close to her ear. “Come to the kitchen with me.” Rain nodded and rose from her chair. As she followed Branda to the kitchen, she wondered what her friend was up to. As soon as they were in the kitchen Rain asked, “What’s up?” Branda pursed her lips. “I don’t know. I just had a strange urge to tell you the Cortino family guide to finding their true love.” “Wow! That’s heavy. Maybe Carlo and Cason are making the drinks too strong. Isn’t that something they only tell family members?” A strange feeling of peace washed over Rain. She wasn’t sure where it came from. It seemed to happen to her a lot when she was around Trent. A frown marred Branda’s brow. “Yeah, but for some reason I feel compelled to tell you.” Branda took a deep calming breath. “So, here goes: To your true love’s inner wrist

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you must place a licking kiss. If she’s yours, you will not miss the shudders of her bliss. Her nipples will come to a hard peak. You can have her within a week. Her emotions you can feel which shows you that your love is real.” Branda wiped her hand across her brow. “Whew, I feel better now.” Rain reached out and put her hand on Branda’s forehead for a few seconds. “You don’t feel feverish. Maybe it’s the seafood dip. I’d lay off that for the rest of the night.” Branda held her hand up, palm facing out. “Stop, crazy girl. It’s not the food or drinks. It was something inside me. I had to tell you the family love guide. Oh, and you won’t be able to lie to them, either. No matter how embarrassed you are, the truth will just slip out, especially after the licking kiss has been done. Their mom told me she thinks that part of the blessing is to allow the men a way of knowing what their woman needs.” Branda whistled out a long breath. “Now I feel relieved. Very relieved.” “Okay—I’m glad I could be of service.” Rain winked at Branda. “You can always count on me to listen to you when you’re having a moment.” “Listen, this could be serious. What if you are Trent’s woman?” Branda’s tone was hushed and quick. Rain’s heart thudded, but uncertainty clouded her mind. “I don’t think so. We’ve decided to just be friends. Nothing more.” Branda looked doubtful. “Just think about it. You’ve been drawn to him from the beginning.” Rain acknowledged that she’d been captivated by him all along. And when she’d seen Trey during her video chat with Branda, she’d had a sense of déjà vu. Like her soul had recognized a close family

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member. This couldn’t be right. Trent didn’t want a solid relationship with her. They were just having fun, weren’t they? Hiding her conflicting thoughts, she said, “He doesn’t want me that way. We are probably just lusting after each other. Lust almost always fades. I’m sure it will fade between us, as well.” Footsteps had them both looking at the doorway. Troy waltzed in a moment later. His eyes lit up when they landed on Branda. Oh, to have a man love her openly like that. Troy went to Branda and wrapped his arms around her. “You two having a secret girly conversation?” Branda melted into him. “Not really. We were just talking about finding love and the sparks that fly between her and Trent.” Troy’s eyes raked over Rain. “They do have strong chemistry.” “Yes, they do.” Branda pinched his ass. “Now that you’re here you can help me bring more drinks to the outside fridge.” “Damn, I should have sent Trey to find you.” Branda laughed, and Troy kissed the top of her head then moved to the fridge and sacked up some canned drinks. Branda winked at Rain. “Let’s go outside. Too bad we didn’t make the guys stay half-dressed for the rest of the night.” Troy growled and Branda swatted his tight ass. “I’ll be out in a minute. I need to take a potty break.” Rain quickly went to the restroom, but when she sat on the commode, she couldn’t go. Her brow wrinkled when she remembered she’d gone not too long ago. Thinking harder on it, she realized she hadn’t felt a need to go potty. It had been more a feeling that she should go to the restroom itself. Now that was weird! Blowing out a puff of air she stood and refastened her pants. Going to the sink, she washed her hands. When she looked into the mirror, it was fogged up and Trent’s name was written in the moisture. She jumped back and yelled, “Holy shit!” With her heart pounding in her chest, she looked around to see if anything else

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strange was going on in the restroom. Nothing supernatural. Looking back at the mirror, she noted that it was fog-free and looked normal. Was she being haunted? No, that couldn’t be. All the strange stuff that had been happening to her all revolved around Trent. And he was alive and well. As far as she knew, live people couldn’t haunt people. He was her best friend’s brother-in-law, for heaven’s sake. Her hearing voices, feeling peace wash over her when in his presence, and now his name in the mirror all had to have logical explanations. She laughed at herself. The voice was probably just the wind, and the feeling of peace was most likely because she liked him. The mirror thing was explainable, too. Her guess was that he had written his name in it after a shower, and when she had washed her hands, the steam touched the mirror and revealed his name. There, that was it. All was explained. She took a shaky breath and left the restroom. Rain took a seat at the patio table and wished she had just one man who loved her the way the twins loved Branda. Seeing her friend so happy was possibly making her subconsciously want a man of her own. Maybe one day. She watched closely as Gaven asked Cindy to get him and Lunn another beer. The two were in a deep discussion about any and all things male. Cindy came back with the beers and handed them to the men. She was just about to kneel at Lunn’s feet when he scooted back from the table and patted his lap. “Sit.” His legs had been together, and as soon as Cindy got comfortable in his lap, he hooked her ankles with his feet and spread his legs wide. Cindy blushed as her legs spread with his. He tightened his grip on her waist. “Relax, nobody can see your pretty pussy. Do you trust me?” “Yes, Sir.” “Good, now just sit here and let me play with you.” Lunn’s voice was soft and gentle.

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To Rain’s amazement, Cindy melted into Lunn’s body. He kept talking to Gaven, who was sitting right next to him. As he talked, his hand slowly inched up Cindy’s leg, and the hand he had wrapped around her waist moved up to fondle her breast. Trent plopped down in a chair next to Rain. Leaning toward her, he whispered, “He’s teaching her to do as commanded no matter where she may be. The Dom who claims her will be one lucky bastard. Lunn is an excellent teacher.” Rain’s clit started to throb, just like it did every time Trent was near. Plus, it didn’t help that Lunn was putting on such an erotic show as he trained Cindy. After asking Gaven how the pub was doing, he dipped his hand under Cindy’s skirt and stroked her pussy in slow, even strokes. She whimpered, closed her eyes, and spread her legs a little wider. Gaven grinned and placed his hand on her knee. “Business is good. One of the TVs went out last week, but it’s fixed now. Seen any good real estate recently?” Rain noted that most of the people at the party were trying to talk about other things, but most of their eyes kept coming back to Lunn, Cindy, and Gaven. Lunn kept on petting her between her spread legs while Gaven was inching his hand up her leg. The hand on her breast moved down her body until it was able to slide up and under her thin top. She started to pant lightly when Lunn’s hand cupped her breast. Trent shifted in his chair, and Rain could sympathize with him. Watching these two hot men work Cindy into a frenzy was making her want to jump Trent. She looked around and saw that Cason and Carlo where making out with their dates on the lounges close to the pool. Branda, Troy, and Trey were bumping and grinding to the beat that filled the night air. “I found a house I’m thinking about buying and restoring.” Lunn’s hands never stopped stroking Cindy as he answered Gaven. Rain shifted and pressed her thighs together tightly.

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Gaven slowly smoothed his hand up her body and under her shirt. His hand didn’t stop until it cupped her breast. She whimpered and hunched her hips hard into Lunn’s hand. “Stop.” Lunn waited for Cindy to stop hunching his hand. “Do only what you are told to do. You were told to relax into me and let me play with you. Do you remember that?” Lunn pulled his hand out from under her skirt. His fingers were damp with her juices. “Yes, Sir.” Cindy’s voice trembled with need. “If you do as you are told, your pleasure will be ten times greater. Relax and let us play with you.” Lunn inched his hand higher up on her inner thigh. “Yes, Sir.” Cindy took a deep breath and relaxed into him. “That’s a good sub.” Lunn patted her thigh then slowly slid his hand under her skirt. Marshall and Tamrisk came to the table and plopped down. Tamrisk was blushing, but she couldn’t take her eyes off Cindy, Lunn, and Gaven. Rain noticed that Marshall was staring at Tamrisk instead of the three lovers at the table. Interesting. Gaven’s hand moved under Cindy’s shirt, and it was obvious that he was pinching and rolling her nipple. She writhed in Lunn’s arms but didn’t hunch his hand. “I called the pub a minute ago, and Doug said that everything was running smoothly,” Marshall said to Gaven, although his eyes never left Tamrisk, and hers never left the three lovers. “Good to know. Thanks for calling. I’m a little busy.” Gaven leaned forward and nibbled on Cindy’s ear. Rain shifted in her chair again and noticed that Tamrisk shuddered, Marshall smiled like a predator who had just found his prey, and Trent was staring a hole through her. She glanced down and saw the way his swollen cock was pressing against his jeans. Yep, he was just as horny as she was. He’s off-limits, off-limits, Rain chanted in her mind.

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Cindy whimpered as Lunn moved his hand faster under her skirt. Both men plucked at her breasts and nibbled at her ears. “Find your pleasure, pretty sub.” Lunn breathed the words into her ear and spread her legs wider as his hand steadily moved under her skirt. “She’s so cute when she’s all heated up. Don’t you think so, Lunn?” Gaven asked right before he moved down to her breast and took her covered nipple into his mouth. “Extremely.” Lunn answered right before he took her jaw in his hand, turned her face, and shifted just enough to devour her mouth. Within moments Cindy’s body trembled from head to toe, and she mewled into Lunn’s mouth as she climaxed in front of them all. Her cheeks flushed with color, and her body continued to tremble as the men leisurely stroked her body, never letting her come all the way back down. Gaven backed away slightly but left his hand on her thigh. “So, back to the house you found. Once it’s restored, would you keep it or sell it?” Lunn nibbled on Cindy’s neck then answered, “I don’t know. That would depend on how I felt about the house once it was done. It is big enough to suit my needs.” Lunn removed his hand from under Cindy’s skirt and shifted her sideways in his lap. Tucking her head under his chin, he stroked her back. “Is it far from here?” Gaven asked. “No, maybe three miles,” Lunn answered. “Cool, that’s not far from the pub.” As Gaven spoke, he caressed Cindy’s knee. Cindy may be content, but as Rain looked around she knew the rest of them weren’t. Her traitorous eyes went back to Trent’s cock. She licked her lips and shifted once again. He’s off-limits, off-limits. Lunn started plucking at Cindy’s nipples, and she moaned as he stoked the fire in her again. Branda danced over with one of her men.

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“Where is Troy?” Trent asked. Trey winked. “He’s pulling the sheets back on our bed. You mind letting Rain bunk with you? That way all the couples can have their own room.” “I’m good with that,” Trent was quick to respond. “Good. We are going to our room for a bit. The party is an allnighter, so we will be coming and going from our room all night. Sex, nap, sex, snack, you know how it goes. Marshall, you good with taking care of Tamrisk?” Trey asked with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. “Glad to,” Marshall answered in a low, soft tone. Tamrisk blushed, and Rain silently applauded Trey for nudging the couple together. “Thanks. We’ll be in and out all night, but right now it’s time to make Branda squirm then scream.” Trey kissed Branda long and deep. When he came up for air, they were both panting. Taking her hand, he guided her toward the house. Over his shoulder, he said, “See you guys later, much later.” Movement by the pool made Rain look that direction. Cason and Carlo where guiding their passion-dazed dates into the house. “If Cason and Carlo go to the correct rooms, your bedroom will be the third one to the right,” Trent said, looking at Marshall. “If one of them took yours, just go for the last empty room. Gaven and Lunn’s stuff is already in the room next to mine.” Switching his gaze to Rain, he stood and held out his hand. “Let’s go to my room. I need to ask you something.” Rain knew she should tell him no, but he was so cute, and she was so horny she couldn’t tell him no. She let him help her up, and then she turned toward Tamrisk. “Are you okay with this? If not, I can hang out with you.” Tamrisk glanced at Marshall then looked back at Rain. “No, I’m fine with it, go on with Trent.” At Rain’s are you sure look, Tamrisk

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added, “I’ll be fine. I’m learning some new things about myself, and I want to talk to these guys some more.” Rain was used to parties with her friends. She just wasn’t used to them all having lovers at these gatherings. Leaning down, she gave her sister a quick hug. “I’ll see you in a bit. Have fun.” With that said, Rain let Trent lead her into the house. Off-limits, off-limits, Rain chanted in her head. He was forbidden fruit. Surely he just wanted to talk.

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Chapter Nine Rain’s scent was driving him crazy. He had to have her again. Something about her reeled him in like a hooked fish, and deep down he knew he was never getting off her line. Once he had her in his room, he shut the door and locked it. Brow raised, she asked, “You have to lock the door to talk to me?” A wicked grin spread across his face. “No, but I’m hoping to need a locked door a few moments after I talk to you.” “Cocky, but you know we are not supposed to see each other anymore. We are just friends, remember?” Stepping in front of her, he took her hand and brushed a light kiss across her knuckles. “I know, but I thought we may change our selfimposed rules.” “Interesting. What do you suggest?” “That we become friends with benefits.” At her raised brow, he added, “It makes sense. We aren’t seeing other people, and at times like tonight we will be brought together through family and friends. I’m very drawn to you, and you seem to be drawn to me. Why not put an end to our suffering and change our status? We are grown. We can handle it.” Please say yes, please say yes. He had it bad for her. If she didn’t agree, he thought he’d go mad. The ache he had for her went bone deep. “We shouldn’t, but I want to. I won’t get attached to you, and you won’t get attached to me. We will just be friends who happen to have sex every now and then.” As she talked, she started unbuttoning his

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shirt. “As soon as one of us wants to end it physically, it will be over and we will just be friends. How does that sound?” He groaned when she ran her hand over his bare chest. “That sounds fine. I couldn’t agree more.” Walking her over to the love seat, he dropped down and dragged her with him. As she straddled him, her skirt rode up, and it took every bit of grit he had to slow down and just stroke her body. Leaning down, she licked and nipped his lips. Damn, he loved it when she took control. He slid his hands under her shirt and gloried in the feel of her soft skin. She spread her legs wider and pressed her crotch to his. With a groan, she kissed her way to his neck. Needing to please them both, he slid his hands down her back and grabbed her sweetly rounded ass. A soft mewl escaped her lips when he rocked her hips into his. The heat of her pussy felt so good. His dick couldn’t wait to get inside her perfect little sheath. A loud moan came from the room next to theirs. Rain stopped kissing his neck and giggled. She placed her finger over his lips. Lunn’s voice carried through the walls. “Oh, fuck yeah, Cindy. Now do it to Gaven.” Trent watched as Rain’s eyes went wide. It was obvious that she hadn’t thought about what Gaven and Lunn could do behind closed doors. Leaning forward, she whispered in his ear, “Those three sound hot.” Trent caressed her curvy ass. He was glad she was able to handle his friends’ lifestyle. Otherwise she wouldn’t have been his friend for much longer. That would have made him very sad. “They like to share. I’m relieved that doesn’t offend you.” He kissed the tip of her cute little nose. “I’m glad you think them sharing a woman is hot.” “Well, duh. They are hot men. Of course they would look good making a woman climax.” Gaven moaned loudly.

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Rain groaned and ground her pussy into Trent’s hard cock. “They sound so hot. I wish I could watch them.” Trent leaped from the love seat, forcing Rain to wrap her legs around his hips. “I think I can arrange that.” Rain squealed. “No, Trent. What will they say? I can’t go in there and interrupt them.” “Think about it. Lunn owns a BDSM club. He is used to being watched. Do you want to watch them?” Trent stroked her back and hoped she wanted to walk on the wild side tonight. Watching Lunn, Gaven, and a sub was always arousing. Rain bit her lip and looked at him with excited eyes. “You don’t think they would mind?” Trent started walking for the door. “Not at all.” Within seconds Trent was knocking on their door. Lunn’s answered, “Come in.” Trent walked in, still carrying Rain. He let her slide down his body then turned to close the door. Looking at Lunn, he asked, “Mind if we watch? Rain thinks you two are hot.” Lunn’s eyes darted to Rain. She blushed, and he smiled. “I don’t mind at all. How about you, Gaven?” Gaven was standing next to Lunn, and his eyes were blazing. “The more the merrier.” Lunn’s eyes cut to Cindy. “This will be good for Cindy. She needs to get used to being watched in all types of environments.” His eyes cut back to Rain then Trent. “Of course, there are rules to this little game of voyeurism.” Rain stammered, “R-rules?” Lunn nodded. “Yes, rules, little one. You can watch us, but we also get to watch you. When your need grows out of control and you have to be fucked, you can’t leave this room. He will take you here in front of us.” Lunn’s eyes pinned Rain to the spot. “Do you agree to the rules?”

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Rain glanced at Trent. He nodded his agreement. She trembled then answered Lunn. “I agree to your rules.” Trent could not stop the grin that curled his lips. Tonight was going to be unforgettable. Leading Rain to the love seat, he sat down and pulled her into his lap. **** Nervous butterflies raced around in Rain’s stomach. Voyeurism, to this extent, was not something she had participated in before. She had watched fully clothed couples in public, but this was different. Trent nibbled at her ear. “I want you to sit facing them with your legs between mine and your back resting against my chest.” “Okay.” She moved and gasped when Trent rested his hands on her thighs. The heat of his hands was as delicious as the feel of his hard cock pressed into her butt. “Watch how beautiful they are,” Trent whispered into her ear. Lunn was still standing next Gaven with his shirt open and his pants lowered just enough for his dick and balls to be revealed. He had a nice package. Gaven wore only his hip-hugging jeans. Cindy was totally naked and kneeling in front of Lunn. The scene was pure heat. “Cindy, suck my cock nice and slow. The object is to tease me, not to make me blow my load within a second. A man will feel more satisfied if he doesn’t come too quickly.” Lunn’s voice was low as his instructed his lover. Lunn stepped closer to Cindy and groaned when she licked him from his smooth balls to the thick crown of his dick. At the tip she lapped for awhile then pulled back and blew across the heated flesh. When Lunn inched closer to her lips, she immediately latched onto his cock and sucked gently. Moving slowly back down Lunn’s cock, she moaned when she reached his balls.

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As Cindy lapped at Lunn’s balls, he stroked her head gently. Rain was getting super wet just watching them. She squirmed in Trent’s lap, and he thrust his hips upward into her ass to show her how turned on he was. Cindy moaned then quickly licked up Lunn’s cock. She groaned and took his dick deep into her mouth then started bobbing her head wildly. The smooth flow she’d had was gone. “Stop,” Lunn commanded. Leaning back, she cast her eyes up to his. “Slow and easy. Try again.” “Yes, Sir.” Rain squirmed again as Cindy slowly licked and sucked Lunn’s hard cock. Her smooth flow was back, and Lunn looked extremely happy about it. Lunn lightly touched her head. His voice was in full dominant mode when he spoke. “That was wonderful, Cindy. Now it’s Gaven’s turn.” Gaven moved over, and Cindy scooted in front of him. Gaven smoothly pulled out his large cock and hairless balls. He had a nice package, too. “Open wide, darling.” She looked up at him then opened her mouth and licked at his smooth balls. “Good job. Now slowly move up his cock and lick the tip. Just light touches.” She murmured, “Yes, Sir,” as she ran her lips up his cock. Once at the top she swirled her tongue around it then licked lightly at the crown. Gaven shuddered. “Excellent.” Lunn’s voice was deep as he praised her. Rain couldn’t take her eyes off them. As she licked his dick, Cindy slid Gaven’s pants down to his knees and caressed his firm, hairless ass. Rain noticed that both men had hairless balls and asses. She licked her lips. It was worth their effort. They looked almost as awesome as Trent. His balls and butt were smooth, as well. Who could resist their

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well-cared-for, muscular bodies? Choosing to be Trent’s friend with benefits was definitely a good choice. She just hoped it lasted a good long time. Lunn moved on the other side of the two lovers and started stroking Cindy’s pussy. She reached out and stroked his cock. All three groaned. Trent moved her forward and pulled off her blouse and bra. The second he stroked her nipples, she didn’t care about the other three lovers seeing her naked body. Trent nibbled at her neck then hooked her ankles with his feet and spread his legs. Hers followed suit. One of his hands traveled down and slid up under her short skirt to pet the moist flesh between her legs. Rain moaned loudly when Trent’s thumb pressed her clit. She panted when his lips nipped her ear as his hands continued to stoke the fire that already raged within her. Through half-closed lids she noticed that the three lovers had stopped what they were doing and were watching her and Trent. She didn’t care at all. A devilish part of her loved them watching. Trent suddenly picked her up and stripped the last of her clothes from her body, then quickly flung his off. He guided her back onto the love seat and laid her out with her legs spread wide. “Hold onto the arm of the love seat. Don’t let go.” Rain was hoping he would pound into her with is engorged cock, but to her dismay he licked his way down her body. It felt wonderful, but she was too turned on to fully appreciate it. He was slowly kissing down her tattoo. She squirmed. In response, he pinned her hips down. “Please, Trent.” Her plea seemed to fall on deaf ears. “In a minute, love. The glitter you put on your tat is driving me crazy. The light hitting it is making the stars wink at me and the butterfly dance.” His lips slowly moved down her glitter-covered, starry path. “Let me work my way to your pretty little entrance to heaven.” “Work faster!” Her demand made Gaven laugh.

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“Faster what?” Trent asked. “Faster, please.” Rain would say anything to get that dick deep inside her. Trent leaned down and licked from her wet entrance to her throbbing clitoris. She shuddered in response. “What would the lady like? My tongue or my cock?” Unable to control her breathing, she panted. “Cock, please.” In a lust-filled haze she let Trent guide her around the love seat. A pillow was tossed to him by Gaven. Trent placed the pillow on the back of the love seat then bent her over it and spread her legs. She cried out when he ran his hard cock up and down her wet slit. Trent leaned over and licked her shoulder. “Watch them, love. See how beautifully they work together.” Through half-closed lids, she saw that the three lovers had moved to the bed. Lunn was tying Cindy’s hands to the headboard. Once she was secure he told her to spread her legs. She quickly did as he commanded. “Good girl.” Lunn moved between her legs. “Gaven, give her something to suck on.” Facing Lunn, Gaven straddled her face and offered her his big cock. She opened her mouth, and he slid the tip in. “When you come, shoot your load on her pretty tits. She likes to suck cock, but she doesn’t care for the taste of semen.” Lunn leaned forward and started eating her pussy. Gaven nodded. “Understood.” Cindy took him deeper into her mouth, and Gaven moaned in pleasure. Damn, they were hot to watch, Rain thought to herself. Trent felt so good rubbing her slit and rolling her nipples. All the sensations this atmosphere created were pushing her closer and closer to ecstasy. As she watched, Gaven started groaning loudly and thrusting into Cindy’s mouth. Trent pinched her nipples then whispered, “Don’t take your eyes off of them. Watch them squirm and fight for their release.”

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“Fuck me, please,” Rain begged. “Wait for it,” Trent responded in a dark voice. Lunn rose up, and while he lined his cock up with Cindy’s cunt, Trent lined his thick dick up with Rain’s tight little hole. Lunn’s butt muscles flexed. As he lunged forward, Trent lunged forward. Rain cried out as Trent shoved his thick cock into her dripping pussy. Cindy groaned and rocked her hips as Lunn thrust into her. Rain flew apart as Trent ordered her to keep watching the lovers on the bed. Her body convulsed as he rammed into her sweet spot. Her eyes were glued to the trio on the bed. Passionate cries filled the air. Gaven’s thrusting dick, it went in and out of Cindy’s mouth over and over again. Lunn’s ass muscles flexed as he pounded into his willing sub. She screamed in bliss when Lunn squeezed her clit. Gaven roared as he pulled out of Cindy’s mouth and came all over her tits. His semen landed on her stiff peaks and slowly slid down her plump flesh. Lunn stiffened and thrust forward one last time. Gaven pushed her breasts together and slid his dick in and out of her semen-slicked valley. Trent pumped quickly into her then stiffened and cried out in ecstasy. He pressed on her clit, and she saw stars dance before her eyes as she came again. Pleasure radiated from her clit to her whole body. The sensation went on and on. Trent leaned on her back and they both shuddered as they watched the trembling trio on the bed. So beautiful. Trent moved off her then guided her around the love seat. He lay down and pulled her down on top of him. She gladly rested on his body. Looking over at the bed, she noticed that the three lovers on the bed were all laid out and panting. Rain smiled to herself as she thought about what they had all just done. This was a night she was sure to remember forever.

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Chapter Ten Rain took a bite of her stuffed jalapeno and glanced back at the man who had been staring at Tamrisk for the last thirty minutes. He had already come over to their table at Gaven’s pub three times, trying to get them to invite him to sit down. “Your fan is about to bring out the ugly in me.” Rain cut her eyes to the man. Tamrisk frowned. “Me, too. This is the side of my job I dislike the most, but thank goodness it doesn’t happen too often. If we ignore him, I’m sure he will get the hint that I’m not looking for a new man.” “Did you finish your latest article?” Rain asked. “Sure did, sent it in to the magazine yesterday.” “How did your two-week stay in California go?” “Great. I love the scenery there. The hotel I stayed in had the coolest jet tub I’ve ever seen. I soaked in that sucker every night. After a week without it, I’m debating getting one for my condo.” Rain looked past Tamrisk’s shoulder. “Don’t look now, but that man is coming back to the table. I’m going to tell him to buzz off.” “Don’t do anything rash.” As soon as the words left her mouth, Tamrisk felt his hand on her shoulder. “Ever since I saw your picture online I just can’t stop thinking about you. Please give me a chance. I know we are perfect for each other.” Rain had had enough. “Look, mister, she’s not interested. Please leave us alone.” Rain slapped her hand down on the table loudly and stared him down.

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Bushy eyebrows drew together, and the man’s thick lips pursed. His strong cologne invaded her nose with the power of fresh dog poop. A wave of nausea washed over Rain. Tamrisk tried to brush off his hand, but he tightened it. “Let go of me, right now.” “Don’t be like that, honey. I don’t like you being mad at me. Just give me your number so we can talk tonight and decide where to meet tomorrow. Without her, of course.” He bent in closer to her face, trying to intimidate her. Tamrisk once again tried to dislodge his hand, but failed. “I don’t think so. My boyfriend is the only man for me. Please go away.” The man scowled. “Boyfriend? The article I read said you were single. You don’t have a boyfriend. I think you are lying to me. I don’t like people who lie. With time you’ll learn not to lie to me. The price is quite high.” Rain leapt to her feet. “She’s not interested in you. Let her go. Now.” The last word had been said loud enough to draw attention. The man snarled at Rain, “This ain’t your business. Sit down and shut up or leave.” Tamrisk turned fearful eyes on Rain then looked back at the man. “I think there has been some kind of misunderstanding. I’m sure you are a nice man, but I’m in a relationship with someone else.” Anger crossed the man’s face and contorted it into a scary sight. “Shut your foul mouth. You’re leaving with me.” He pulled at Tamrisk’s shoulder, and when she shrank away, he pulled on her shirt. A loud ripping sound filled the air, followed by the crack of a jaw being broken. Rain blinked. Damn, Marshall was fast. He had spun the man around and hit him with a jawbreaking right hook at the speed of light. The man was crumbled on the floor, holding his jaw and moaning loud enough to wake the dead.

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Two of the pub’s bouncers came over and lifted the now-howling man to his feet. Marshall stood between the man and Tamrisk. Unbuttoning his shirt, he quickly took it off and helped Tamrisk into it. Turning to his men, he commanded, “Take him outside and call the police. I’ll be in the office for a few minutes. Don’t take your eyes off him.” In a quieter tone, he spoke to one of the men. “Tell Doug to give everybody in here a free drink on the house. Have Macy float around making sure everyone is all right. I’ll call Gaven.” With that all taken care of, Marshall gave Tamrisk a quick hug then guided her toward the stairs. “Come with us, Rain.” In a haze Rain followed them up to Gaven’s office. Belly flipflopping, she rushed into the restroom and threw up in the commode. A couple of minutes later the heaving stopped, and Tamrisk handed her a cool washcloth. Marshall’s deep voice could be heard in the background. He must be on the phone, she thought, probably talking to Gaven. Rain took the washcloth and blotted her face with it. “Thanks, how are you doing?” “Fine, thanks to Marshall. Man, can he move fast,” Tamrisk answered, adrenaline making her voice high. “No kidding,” Rain responded. She lightly rubbed her belly and took a few deep breaths. Her new condition was turning her into a wussy. “How are you doing? It’s not like you to throw up so easily.” Tamrisk flushed the commode and rinsed out the washcloth that Rain has set down on the edge of the sink. Before Rain could answer, Marshall walked in. “Are you all right, Rain? Do you want me to call Trent?” “No, no. I’m fine now. I think I ate something bad earlier today. The dreadful excitement of the moment was a little too much for me, but I’m fine now.” Rain hoped he believed her. She couldn’t handle Trent right now.

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Marshall looked both sisters up and down in an assessing manner. “I need to go downstairs. The police will be here soon. I’ll have to bring them up so they can talk to both of you. Are you two feeling well enough to answer their questions?” Rain and Tamrisk answered, “Yes,” at the same time. “Good, I’m glad you are both all right.” He gave Tamrisk a quick hug and kiss on the lips then headed out the door. Moving to the couch, both women sat down warily. “How serious is it between you two?” Rain asked. “Very. I love him. He’s perfect.” Tamrisk stopped and stared hard at Rain. “Before I go into a long list of why he is so perfect, I have to ask, what’s up with you?” Rain shrugged her shoulder. “I don’t know what you are talking about.” “Bull.” Tamrisk eyeballed Rain for a long moment. “What’s up with you hurling wretchedly like that? You’ve always been the strongest between us. A scene like the one downstairs with that idiot would not faze you at all. The old Rain would have given him an uppercut to the chin then called the bouncers to take him away.” No time like the present, Rain thought to herself. “I’m pregnant.” Tamrisk’s jaw dropped, and her eyes bulged comically. “No way!” Rain grinned at her sister’s reaction. “Yes, way.” Tamrisk’s fingers played with the buttons on Marshall’s shirt. “Does Trent know?” “No, and I don’t want him to know. The baby is mine. Trent and I are just friends. Our sexual relationship is for pleasure only. The baby is mine.” Rain smoothed her hand across her belly. “The baby is one of the benefits of my relationship with Trent, a sweet benefit I will love forever.” Tamrisk rang her hands nervously. “I don’t know about this. I think you should tell Trent. When he finds out, he is going to be mad, real mad. You should tell him now.”

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Rain’s stomach sank. “You better not tell him, Tamrisk. I need to be able to trust you. Can I trust you to keep my little secret?” Tamrisk looked toward the door then back at Rain. “I don’t think this is a little secret, but you can trust me not to tell him. Please think about it, though. He’s a good guy. He would love the baby.” “I don’t doubt that, but what if he wants to take the little one away from me? He can have other babies. This one will most likely be my only baby. I promise to tell him when the time is right.” Rain looked directly into Tamrisk’s eyes. “Promise you won’t say anything about the baby.” Tamrisk licked her lips nervously. “I promise, but what if he asks about you?” Rain released the breath she’d been holding. “He won’t. I’m leaving to do a job for their hotel in New York, in a week. I’ll be busy for the next six months. I probably won’t see him the whole time I’m gone, and by the time I come back, I’ll be able to handle this situation better.” Tamrisk licked her lips again and glanced at the door. “All right, I guess your plan sounds good. What kind of job are you doing for his hotel?” A smile crossed Rain’s lips. “I’m going to update their couple’s suites into elaborate, exotic bedroom suites that will impress the toughest customers. It’s going to be an exciting expansion to our furniture business. If this goes well, and I think it will, we can double or even triple that business. Everybody wins, from the craftsmen to the hotels to us.” “When did this happen?” “The deal went through yesterday,” Rain answered, unable to keep the excitement from her voice. “Let me know a week or two before you are done and I’ll come up to see you and how it went. I can take some pictures and write an article about the new job and get it published in a magazine that caters

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to elaborate and exotic rooms,” Tamrisk responded with just as much excitement as Rain had shown. Marshall entered with a police officer. Tamrisk jumped guiltily. Rain mimed locking her lips. Tamrisk nodded her understanding. Whew! Rain’s stomach twisted into a tight knot when she looked at Marshall. She thought she saw his eyes narrow for a second. Hopefully he hadn’t seen her guiding Tamrisk into silence. She was pretty sure her sister would cave under his questioning. Yes, she would spill her guts in the time it took a hummingbird to flap its wings. Rain crossed her fingers and hoped he never questioned Tamrisk. All she could do for now was hope he hadn’t seen anything, and if he had, that he would forget all about it by the time the police got their report and left. Keeping secrets was painful, but for her sanity, she needed to for a little while.

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Chapter Eleven Thursday evening and Gaven’s pub was hopping. Trent walked past many cheering and booing fans. Gaven was playing Sunday’s game for those who hadn’t seen it and those that wanted to see it again. Reaching their table, he nodded at his brothers, Lunn, Gaven, and Marshall. Gaven’s smile caught his attention. “You got your new tooth, nice.” Gaven tapped it. “Two thousand dollars. It’s worth every penny.” Lunn ginned. “I bet he dodges faster the next time somebody swings a fist in his direction.” “You better believe it. Although, the girls at your club did give me some sweet sympathy lovin’.” At the mention of girls, Trent asked, “The girls out doing something fun?” Troy responded first, “Yep, Branda and Tamrisk are over at Sienna’s.” Troy wiggled his eyebrows. “Some lingerie-buying party. We hope Branda comes home with some hot stuff.” “Yeah, something hot, hopefully crotchless so we can tie her up dressed and make love to her without having to rip the clothes off her. She got really mad the last time we ripped off a pair of expensive underwear,” Trey stated with a dreamy grin. “That was fun. She didn’t chew us out until she came to her senses and realized we had ruined her favorite undies.” Troy looked over at Trey. “Send her a text reminding her to get something crotchless, okay?

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“On it,” Trey responded as he whipped out his phone. “Still not good at texting?” Gaven asked Troy. “No, I keep pushing the letter next to the one I want. Thank goodness Trey is good at texting. Branda loves to text, and she is fast at it,” Troy answered in a frustrated tone. Trent grinned at his brothers. They looked just alike but were different personality- and skill-wise. Branda had her hands full with those two. Rain was a handful, too. He missed her. It had been two months since he’d seen her. He talked to her almost every day on the phone, but it wasn’t the same. Scanning the room, he grinned sadly when a hottie winked at him. Double the guilt hit him hard. Joelle was the one he was supposed to be with, and he could barely remember her face anymore. Rain was supposed to be just a friend, but he couldn’t get her smiling face out of his mind. Deep down, he craved all of her, from her smile to her business sense to her hot body. Buried in his own thoughts, he could barely hear his brothers’ and friends’ conversations. The dream he’d had last night flashed through his mind, and he frowned at the remembrance. “Whoa, what’s that look all about, little bro?” Troy asked with more than a touch of concern. Trent tried to act innocent. “What look? I was thinking about getting another beer.” Lunn picked up Trent’s full beer. “Not likely. Give. What’s on your mind?” Looking around the table, Trent realized they were all waiting for an answer. Ah hell, maybe they could help him out. “I dreamed of Joelle last night.” Trey’s brows drew together. “What happened was not your fault.” Gaven paled a little. “Trey’s right. You have to get past what happened. I can’t handle seeing you this way.” Gaven paused then tried to lighten the mood. “If nothing else, move on in the name of Catch and Release. Hold strong to our motto, brother.”

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Trent took a drink of his beer then answered with more pain is his voice than he intended, “Thanks for the reminder. I’ll get right on it.” Troy patted Trent’s shoulder. “What was the dream about this time? Was it the same as before?” Trent sighed. “No, it was different this time. Instead of her calling out for me to save her, she appeared out of a blue light and smiled at me.” Trent swallowed hard. “The way she used to.” Damn, this was hard. Maybe if he didn’t add to it they would leave him alone. Trey wouldn’t let it go. “That can’t be it. What else happened?” Trent shrugged his shoulder. “This is crazy. She told me to lick Rain’s wrist. That can’t be right, though. Joelle was the one. I just knew it at the time. The dream doesn’t make any sense.” Troy leaned forward. “Sure it does, if Rain is your vero amore. You have to admit Rain is the only woman you have ever been mesmerized by.” “What? I loved Joelle.” Trent shifted guiltily. Troy eyed Trent. “Yes you did, but you didn’t stare at her the way you stare at Rain. I think you should go see her, and while you’re with her, give her a licking kiss to her wrist. If she is the one, you will know in a hurry. Her nipples will harden, and her whole body will shudder in bliss. That is a lovely sight.” Guilt stabbed at Trent’s heart. “I don’t know.” Marshall rubbed his chin and looked at Trent. “I think you should go see Rain. Tamrisk said the last few times she’s talked to her she sounds sad.” “Sad. Sad, how?” Trent demanded. Marshall shrugged. “Just sad. Tamrisk thinks she misses you.” “I call her almost every day.” Trent tapped his fingers on the table. “I don’t know anything about that. All I know is what Tamrisk tells me. And she tells me Rain sounds sad.” Marshall leaned back in his chair and gave a light shrug of his shoulders.

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“Go see her in the name of business. Act like you’re checking on the project she is doing,” Trey chimed in. Yeah, he could do that. Rain knew that he and his brothers randomly checked in on all their businesses. Trent smiled at his brother. “I do like our New York hotel. I think I should do a routine check on it.” **** Two days later Trent walked into their New York hotel and immediately called Rain. “What room are you working on today?” “Hi, Trent. I’m almost finished with the Waterfall Suite. I think you are going to love it.” Excitement flavored her words. “Sounds great. I can’t wait to see it. Hold on for a moment.” Trent paused for a minute, pretending he was busy. “I have to let you go. Something just turned up,” Trent lied. Disappointment wrapped around Rain’s answer. “Oh, okay. I guess I’ll talk to you later, then.” Trent smiled. “Yeah, I’ll talk to you soon.” Very soon, he thought the second he hung up and stepped into the elevator. Once the door closed, he couldn’t help but remember her jumping him in the Sorrento elevator. He hoped she jumped him again today. Otherwise he was more than ready to jump her lovely body. A smile crossed his face when the doors opened and he stepped out. Peace surrounded him as he walked to the Waterfall Suite. Rain was near. Pulling his card out, he opened the door and strolled in. Whistling, he looked around. This was awesome. “Hello, is someone here?” Rain walked in. His heart fluttered. “Hello, Rain.” He let his hunger for her show in his eyes as he devoured her lovely body. Smiling brighter than the sun, she rushed to him. “You tricked me.”

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The second she was close enough, he wrapped her in a bear hug. Heavenly, that’s how she felt in his arms. “I wanted to see you. If I’d told you I was here, you might have run.” Rain stepped back and looked into his eyes. “I’d never run from you.” Her lips twisted as she looked him over. “Why are you wet?” “I got rained on.” Rain gestured to the window. “It’s bright and sunny.” “I seem to have my own personal storm cell.” The rain cloud that seemed to be following him around was getting annoying. Now the rain was always full of Rain’s sweet scent. It hardened his dick every time. Am I cursed? “Maybe the sky gods think you need a bath.” “Funny.” He shook his head and pelted her with water. She squealed, and he laughed. He loved it when she teased him. Payback was fun, as well. “How’s the renovation going?” Rain looked around the room. “Fine.” She gestured towards the living area. “What do you think?” Trent went to the counter in the kitchenette and put his briefcase and keys on it. Turning, he scanned the room. “I’ll tell you after I inspect the suite.” “If you have any questions, just ask,” she said then winked at him. He nodded and walked over to a wall of running water. It flowed from the ceiling to a drain in the floor. The water was kept in place by a circular, ten-inch cement and rock barrier. Low-growing plants lined the front of the barrier. There was a good three-foot area between the low wall and the waterfall. Plenty of room for a couple to have a little fun in. A picture of Rain naked with her breasts pressed against the wall jumped into his mind. He reached out and touched the water— cold. Nice! Just the right temperature for making nipples nice and hard. His dick jerked. It wanted Rain now, with her back against the wall and her legs wrapped around his waist. Water would be racing over her shoulders and caressing her breasts. The cold water would

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have her nipples hard and sensitive. Perfect for sucking as he thrust inside her heated canal. Hearing her walking around in another room drew him out of his fantasy. Plants of different shades and heights were everywhere. Many people would love the wild-outdoors feel. Moving to the bathroom, he whistled again, and his dick grew even harder. The shower area was open and made from smooth rocks. One flat rock ten feet up looked perfect for a waterfall. He turned on the water and groaned when the water rushed down, blocking a smooth stone bench. A couple could walk through the water and make love on the eight-foot bench. Rain bent over with her hands on the smooth surface would be an awesome sight. After adjusting his swollen cock away from his zipper, he turned off the water. Going deeper into the room, he stopped at a huge, sunken stone tub. A seven-foot-long, four–foot-wide shelf was attached to the wall about a foot above the water level of the tub. Just right for fucking. Looking up, he spotted an eight-inch flat rock spout that was placed dead center of the fucking shelf and was about seven feet up the wall. His dick throbbed as possibilities raced through his mind. Needing to confirm his newest fantasy, he turned on the water. Holy hell, the water flowed from the eight-inch-wide rock and landed right in the middle of the rock shelf. His mind went wild. A picture of Rain laying on the smooth rock with her luscious legs spread and the water kissing her clit made his balls ache. Rain walked in with an excited smile. “I see you found the back massager. Isn’t it wonderful? People are going to love it. You lay face down on the stone shelf and the water runs directly down the center of your back then flows into the tub.” “It’s perfect.” He loved how innocent she was sometimes. Although he would have loved to show her what else the back massager could do, he felt a pressing need to make love to her gently. Wild, raunchy sex could be done another day. Today he just wanted to seduce her softly. That was strange for him, especially being in this

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erotic environment. One look at her and the need to make sweet love to her grew. The bedroom had another floor-to-ceiling waterfall. More than one couple could be having fun at the same time. He liked that idea. His eyes traveled to the bed. It was larger than a king. The four bedposts of the frame were made of thick, twisted wood that attached to the ceiling. The thick posts gave the image of a fluffy bed protected by four large trees. A picture of Rain tied spread-eagle on the bed, a willing partner to all the pleasure he could give her, burned in his mind and heated his blood. She walked over to the bed, and the need to love her gently washed back over him. He wasn’t sure where these feeling were coming from, but he knew he had to follow them. Maybe that’s what she needed. The realization that her needs were more important than his was a shocking blow. Not even Joelle had produced feeling this strong in him. Moving over to her, he cupped her face in his hands and kissed her softly. “The suite looks perfect and so do you.” Easing back, he looked at the bed. “I love this bed.” He turned to her and noted the hunger in her blue eyes. Oh yeah, she needs some lovin’ as badly as I do. “You know what I’d love even more?” Rain’s eyes glittered with lust. “Pizza from Mamma Mia’s?” Trent shook his head and stepped closer. “You naked on that bed.” He leaned down and kissed her tenderly as his hands made quick work of undressing her. She was like a fire in his veins. A fire he feared he’d never be able to put out. **** Rain shuddered as Trent stripped her clothes from her. The pulse in her clit was pounding. She needed him badly but was afraid he’d stop once he got her naked and realized she was pregnant. Her new loose clothes helped cover her secret, but once naked all would be

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revealed. The baby had her belly and hips at least two sizes larger than the last time they made love. Would he want to stop? She hoped not. Her need was blazing out of control. Needing him, she started stripping him of his clothes. Through it all his lips never left hers. Man, he tastes good. The second they were both naked, he pulled himself away and stared at her rounder curves. His beautiful eyes darkened. “I love your new curves. Keep eating whatever it is that’s making you look like a shapely, glowing, goddess.” His green eyes shined as they raked over her body. “Get on the bed. I have to taste you. It’s been too long.” The heat between her legs forced her to the center of the bed. Her mind whirled. He thought she’d just gained weight. The look of pure lust on his face told her he didn’t mind at all. It also told her that her rounded curves didn’t scream baby to him. This was probably for the best. The sight of his muscles flexing as he climbed on the bed drew her away from her thoughts and had her pulse pounding again. “Spread you legs. Let me see that pretty pussy.” Oh yeah, she’d do anything for him when he looked at her with such passion. In an unhurried motion she planted the soles of her feet on the bed then slowly opened her legs. The fire that blazed in his eyes grew hotter the second her female flesh was totally revealed. “You are so fucking hot.” The soft growl in his voice made her passage drip. “Stay just like that.” To her surprise, he bounded off the bed and went into the bathroom. Didn’t he know her glistening labia were a sign that she needed him inside her? “What are you doing? Come back in here and finish what you started.” A grinning Trent returned with a fern leaf in his hand. She didn’t wonder about the leaf for long. The sight of his swollen, bobbing cock had her full attention. Getting that monster back inside her was all she could think about. She licked her lips and stared at his dick as he climbed on the bed.

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Rich, husky laughter floated around her. “You’ll get some of that in a bit. First I’m going to make that lovely flesh between your legs drip a little more. Now lie still and tune in to my caresses. I want you trembling before I enter you.” “I’m ready now.” His dick jerked. “See. Your cock wants to be buried inside my wet heat.” “Yes, he does, but I want wetter heat surrounding him. Just relax and enjoy.” Trent knelt at her feet and softly started brushing the leaf up her left leg. Electrical pulses shot through her core when he brushed it across the bundle of nerves between her legs. She moaned and squirmed. “That’s it, babe. Feel the heat rising.” He ran the feathery leaf back and forth across her clitoris until she started panting. “Not yet, my love.” Moving on, he caressed her right leg down then up, up, up. At the junction of her legs he stroked her little sensitive button until her flesh quivered in need. “Please,” she panted. “Soon, my love.” The depth of his voice let her know he was close, too. Closing her eyes tightly, she tried to control the heat coursing through her. He trailed the leaf up then circled her rounded belly lightly several times. Prickles of heat shot through her hips. She swallowed hard when he inched the now torturous leaf up and swirled it around her heavy breasts. As he circled his way to the peak of her breast, she grabbed the sheets and held on. Her body jerked when she felt the heat of his mouth suck a nipple in. That had been unexpected. The lapping of his tongue to her oversensitive nipple shot heat to her cunt and made it weep. A loud moan escaped her lips when he reached down and stroked her clit. Her legs trembled as her need grew. His thumb brushed back and forth across the pleasure button hidden in her folds. One thick finger probed then entered her slick entrance. Her hips instinctively thrust into his hand.

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“Your response is making me so fucking hot. I love the way your body is trembling so sweetly for me.” Opening her eyes, she saw him toss the leaf aside, and she shivered when he loomed over her. The thick mushroom tip of his dick stretched her quivering opening. She grabbed his shoulders and raised her hips in invitation. He plunged in, and she cried out in bliss as his big cock filled her to the brim. The slow thrusts of his rigid flesh tormented her hungry channel. “Faster,” she begged. He was killing her with his leisurely, drawn-out impalements of her needy cunt. He grunted but quickened his pace. Her nails dug into his forearms as pleasure soared through her core. Wanting more, she wrapped her legs around his pumping hips. Goose bumps pebbled her skin. So good! So close! His muscles tightened, and he tunneled harder into her body. The aura around her suddenly changed, and she shattered into a thousand glittering pieces. She screamed in rapture and shuddered in splendid release. In a daze, she felt his muscles turn rock hard. His cock slammed into her one last time then he cried out as his climax shook his body. He eased his body down on hers and breathed heavily into her ear. Peace engulfed her as she stroked his back. She was going to miss him terribly when he left. **** Rain sighed as she got dressed. Now that they had released their pent up passion and talked about the renovation, she knew he’d have to leave. It was getting harder every time. After he found out about the baby, he may never come back. She shook her head. For now she would live in the moment.

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“I hate leaving, but I’m needed back in Florida. You are doing an awesome job,” Trent said as he took her into his arms and kissed her softly. Rain stepped back and followed him to the kitchenette where he had left his keys. His head whipped around, and he smiled. “Did you hide my keys?” “No.” She looked at the counter and frowned. They had been there for all to see not long ago. “Come on. You can tell me the truth.” His smile was flirty. Rain looked at the floor, searching for the keys. “No, really. I didn’t hide your keys. They should have been right there.” The smile dropped from his face. “This isn’t funny. I have a flight to catch.” A snort escaped her lips. “Why would I hide your keys? It’s not like we are a couple or anything. And I’m not desperate for male attention.” She pointed her finger at him. “You must have moved your keys when I wasn’t looking. It’s not my fault you forgot what you did with your keys.” Trent ran his fingers through his hair. “Fine. Let’s just look for my keys so I can leave.” They searched and searched. An hour later they walked back into the kitchenette, and the keys were on the counter. Rain gasped. “How did you do that? I was with you the whole time.” A frown crossed Trent’s face. “I didn’t do it. Someone else must be messing with us. I’ll find out soon enough.” He looked at his watch and shrugged his shoulder. “No way I can make my flight now. Looks like I’ll be staying here tonight. You want to go get something to eat?” “Sure.” Rain knew something strange had happened, but if he didn’t want to talk about it, she wouldn’t pressure him to.

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**** The meal had been great. Trent loved watching Rain eat. Those luscious lips were a delight to watch. As they stepped outside he took a deep breath of the evening air. It was cool and fresher in this area. Only a few cars were cruising the streets. This small community was a little out of the way but worth the drive. Rain’s phone rang, and she stopped to answer it. While she talked a white cat came up to her and bumped its head against her leg. A smile crossed her lips as she bent to pet it. She stood as the caller drew her attention away from the cat. The cat meowed and circled her legs. She looked down and laughed when the cat licked her leg. Something shiny and about the size of a silver dollar caught his attention and drew him to it. As he neared the object, it turned black. That was strange. Rain screamed, and he whirled around to see a gray, seven- to eight-foot snake speeding toward her. Fear for her ripped his heart to pieces. There was no way he could live without her. By rote he immediately reached into his pocket and pulled out his knife. With a flick of his wrist it was open and he was preparing to throw it. To his shock the cat hissed then jumped as the snake lunged with lightning speed. The snake’s fangs were exposed, and his black mouth was opened wide. A strange feeling enveloped him and time stood still. He cut his eyes to Rain. She was standing there with huge eyes and her mouth opened. Her silent scream stabbed his heart. He whipped his attention back to the animals. The cat hung in the air with its claws extended. The snake was frozen in midair as well. Its mouth still fully opened and ready to strike, venom dripped from its long fangs. The atmosphere around him crackled. He threw his knife and watched as it impaled the snake’s head. The bubble he seemed to be in popped, and the snake shot forward a foot, then landed in a dead heap at Rain’s feet. The cat was on it and pulling it away from Rain in a split second. Trent quickly pulled her

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farther away from the snake and pressed her face to his chest. That was the freakiest thing he’d ever experienced in his life. His arms tightened around Rain. He had come so close to losing her. A shudder violently slammed through his body. A man came rushing across the street with some tongs and a plastic tub. A quick glance at the sign proved it to be a pet store. “Did either of you get bitten? Black mambas are extremely deadly.” The man was sweating buckets. Trent stroked Rain’s back as he answered. “No. Why did you have a black mamba in your store? They are one of the deadliest snakes in the world.” “I don’t handle deadly snakes. This one was left on my doorstep. When I came back from my break, I received a call that a friendly black mamba was orphaned outside my shop. Then the line went dead. I hurried outside, but the lid was ajar. Only an idiot would leave a deadly snake on the fucking sidewalk.” The man wiped his brow. “Next thing I heard was her screaming.” The man looked Rain over, then down at the snake. He shook his head as his eyes met Trent’s. “What you did is considered impossible by some. Those snakes are deadly. Their venom kills within an hour. They are also the fastest land snake on earth. You shouldn’t have been able to kill it when it was striking. You two must have a guardian angel watching over you.” The man glanced back at the snake. “You want your knife back?” “No thanks, I have plenty.” That was a knife he could replace with ease. No sense taking a chance the man might get some venom on him trying to remove the knife from the snake. Trent watched the man carefully take the snake away. He tilted Rain’s chin up and asked, “Are you okay, babe? I know it didn’t touch you, but I don’t want you to have nightmares. Although I am pretty sure we are both going to have them.” Rain shivered then scrunched up her face. “It’s weird, but I don’t remember anything except the soft cat circling my legs. Then I can

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vaguely picture a shape coming towards me and then the man carrying the tub away. That’s all.” Shock must have altered her memory. “That’s a blessing. I remember it all very clearly. I hope you never remember.” Trent’s mind flashed back to the fanged, black mouth that was so close to Rain and the way it stopped as if frozen for a split second. That second was all he had needed to make the deadly throw. He looked around for the white cat, but it was gone. He couldn’t help but think that the cat had played a part in saving Rain. Like it had known she was in danger. It had rubbed against her comfortingly then jumped at the snake and pulled it away from her. How could the cat have known? In a flash Trent remembered the shiny object he’d been drawn to. Glancing at the ground, he discovered that the coin-looking object was gone as well. If he’d been standing close to Rain, he wouldn’t have had the room he needed to throw his knife properly. A shiver slivered up his spine. **** Lifting up on her toes, Rain kissed his chin. “Thanks for saving me. Even if I don’t recall all of it. Let’s walk for a bit. Maybe something good will happen to us.” After walking a block, they passed a palm reader’s shop. Rain stopped. “Hey, let’s go in and have the palm reader see if we are being haunted by a ghost.” The lost keys, forgotten snake strike, Trent’s name in the fogged mirror, and the whispered words in her ear made her wonder if someone was haunting them. He hesitated. “I guess we can go in. I don’t know if I’ll believe a word said, but if you want to, I’ll do it.” “I do want to.” Rain took his hand and led him into the shop. The woman that came from behind a shimmery, veiled doorway smiled when she saw them. “What can I do for you today?”

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Rain looked at Trent then back at the woman. “We would like to know if we are being haunted.” “That won’t be a problem at all. Follow me.” Rain watched the woman’s long skirt whirl around as she turned to lead them to another room. The light caught the glittery material and sent sparkles reflecting in the room. Her long hair was loose and flowed down her back. They went through a second veiled doorway, and the woman motioned them to sit down at the small round table. Candles were lit all around the small room, and a crystal ball sat in the middle of the table. The woman sat down and moved the crystal ball to the side. Unable to stop herself, Rain asked, “Don’t you need that to answer our question?” The women laughed. “No, child. I felt the watcher surrounding you two the second you stepped through the door. I will need to hold your hands and look at them, though.” She held out her hands and watched as Trent and Rain placed one of their hands in hers. The second Trent’s hand touched hers, she looked into his eyes. “You are blessed. I don’t see that very often. It’s a somewhat new blessing, but you are not the one that brought it on your family.” Shit! How did she know that? Rain wondered. Trent shifted in his seat. The palm reader turned their hands over and looked closely at them. With brows drawn together, she stated, “You were both recently scared. He remembers it, but you don’t.” She stroked her thumbs across the center of their hands then quickly let them go. “All I can tell you is that you are not being haunted by a ghost. You are being watched, and the watcher is pointing you in the direction she wants you to go. She won’t stop until you understand her message.” A strong current of air spun around the room, making them all shiver. Trent asked, “Are you sure it’s not a ghost?”

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She nodded her head then pursed her lips. “I wouldn’t call the watcher a ghost again. She doesn’t like it.” Rain had to ask, “How do you know?” “I can feel it in my bones.” The woman stood. “That is all I can tell you.” She looked nervously around the room. “You must leave now.” Trent stood and helped Rain up. “Do you know what this watcher wants?” The woman smiled sadly. “That is something the watcher wants you to figure out. I will tell you she means you no harm.” She touched Trent’s arm. “You have to let the past go.” Another gust of air shot through the room and whipped the woman’s hair across her face. She pushed it aside and grinned. “All right, I won’t tell them anything else.” Her light gray eyes bounced between them, and the air swirled. “My mouth is too big. It’s time for you to leave—Go.” Trent looked around the room then at the women. “How much do I owe you?” “Leave whatever you want in the purple jar up front. Just do it quickly.” She made a shooing motion with her hands. Trent led Rain to the front. As they walked, they heard the woman talking to someone. “Ouch! No need to pull my hair. I didn’t tell them everything.” The air suddenly pushed them into the front room. Trent quickly placed a hundred dollar bill in the jar. The door opened on its own, and they stepped through it. It slammed shut as soon they were clear of it. Rain jumped and heat circled her. She glanced back and saw He’s the one written in fog on the store window. Goose bumps made the hair on her arms stand straight up. No way. Someone must be playing with them. Things like this didn’t happen to everyday people. She turned away and started hurrying away from the shop with Trent in tow. A block away they stopped, and Rain laughed nervously.

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Trent laughed as well. “Well, that was interesting. I’m not sure I believe her, but the show was awesome.” Rain nodded her agreement. “I’m with you on that one. There has to be a logical explanation for everything that happened today. One day we will look back and laugh at the crazy things that went on today.” She squeezed his hand then let her feeling slip. “I’m glad you are here.” She wanted to slap herself the second she said the words. Sounding love struck was not good. Trent was just her friend, nothing more.

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Chapter Twelve Marshall was sitting at a table near the bar at Gaven’s listening to Tamrisk, the love of his life. Perfect, that’s what she was, and submissive to the bone. The Dom in him rose up and roared every time he saw her. Her pretty pussy got wet every time he gave her a command. A smile graced his face as he thought about the way her body quivered right before she went limp every time he made her come. The thought of her coming had his mind racing with things he still needed to try on her. What would make her come the hardest for the longest time? Only time would tell. She was talking about any- and everything when she made a little slip. Eyes narrowing, he gave her an intimidating stare, the one he used on people when he wanted the truth right now. To his satisfaction she stopped talking. “I want you to tell me again exactly how Rain is doing.” She gulped, and he knew she’d been keeping secrets from him. “I said she’s not throwing up so much, but that she’s sad.” Tamrisk’s fingers twitched, and she hurriedly put her hands in her lap. Shaking his head, he stared her down. “This is important. I need you to tell me what is going on with Rain.” Calculating the time in his head, he figured it had been two months since Trent had gone to see Rain in New York. He knew Trent called her every day. The man was in love. He just wasn’t smart enough to know it. It was so sad. Tears filled her eyes. He wanted to cave in and let her keep her secrets, but her secrets involved Trent, a good friend of his. There was no way he could let this pass, no matter how much he loved her. Truth be told, a sub should never keep any secrets from her Dom. In a

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soothing tone, he said, “It’s okay, honey. You can tell me. Rain and Trent are friends of mine. If I can help them, I have to. Tell me what you know.” Tamrisk’s lips trembled. “Rain told me not to tell.” Switching tactics, he asked, “Rain has been throwing up and she is sad?” Nodding, she bit her lip. Marshall took her hands and rubbed his thumbs across the backs of her hands. “Is Rain pregnant?” Her eyes grew larger. “Yes.” She was protecting her sister. That was good, but keeping it from him was bad. “If you don’t tell me everything you know right now, I’m going to take you to Lunn’s club and parade you around naked for a couple of hours, and then I’m going to spank you in front of everyone for a keeping a secret from me. The choice is yours.” He held back a smile when she swallowed hard and looked around. She was too modest to ever feel comfortable walking around a club nude, and getting spanked nude in front of all those people would be terrible for her. He would do it, though, if he had to. She meant the world to him, and he needed her to be honest with him at all times, just as he was honest with her. Her voice trembled. “Rain—Rain is pregnant with Trent’s baby. She—” Marshall held up his hand to stop her. “This is too important. I’m going to call Trent, and you are going to tell us everything you know when he gets here.” She shook her head. “Trent will be mad at me. I told Rain to tell him months ago. Can’t I just tell you and you can tell him? Please.” “No, he will hear it from your pretty lips. You have to learn to trust me and keep no secrets from me. Consider this light punishment for keeping this from me and him.” At her nod of agreement, Marshall pulled out his phone and called Trent.

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**** Trent couldn’t get his heartbeat under control. Marshall had sounded so serious on the phone when he had asked him to go to Gaven’s. Something was up big-time. The feeling that it had to do with Rain would not leave him. He quickly spotted Marshall and Tamrisk sitting at a table. He headed toward them and sat at their table. “What’s going on? What has happened? Is Rain all right?” Marshall answered him, “My little sub has something she’d like to tell you.” Marshall turned and looked at Tamrisk. “Don’t you, honey?” Tamrisk risked a peek at Trent then looked down at her hands. “Yes.” She raised pleading eyes to Marshall. “He won’t bite you, honey. Tell him, or we can go to the club right now.” Marshall stared her down. A frown crossed her brow. “Okay, okay.” Tamrisk kept her eyes on her hands. “Rain is pregnant with your baby.” Shock slammed into Trent’s chest and radiated through his body with the power of a sonic boom. “Say that again.” “R-Rain is pregnant with your baby.” A shudder shook Tamrisk’s body, and relief crossed her face. “I told her she should tell you. She said she didn’t want to bother you, that you two are just friends. She won’t give up the baby.” Desperation filled Tamrisk’s eyes as she stared into Trent’s eyes. “You won’t try to take the baby, will you?” “The baby is mine. I will be around the little one. Never doubt that.” “But you won’t try to take it from her, right? Because of her low egg count, she was told there was a chance she’d never have a baby. It would kill her if she were separated from the baby.” “No, I won’t take the baby from her. How is she doing?” A need to see Rain was growing more and more by the second, but first he had to find out how she was doing.

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“Better. She’d not throwing up near as much as she was, but she sounds sad when I talk to her on the phone. I’ll be glad when she comes back home,” Tamrisk said. With his heart pounding in his chest, Trent took Tamrisk’s hand and kissed her knuckles. “Thank you for telling me. You did the right thing.” Turning to Marshall, he said, “Thanks, man. I’ll see you when I get back. Right now I have to catch a plane.” **** Trent took a deep breath as he slid his key card into the lock on Rain’s room and slid inside. It was eleven o’clock at night. He hoped she was still awake. They had a lot to talk about. The place was dark, and so were his clothes. Feeling a bit like a burglar, he walked quietly through the suite. She wasn’t in the living room. Maybe she was in the kitchenette. Nope. He stopped and listened. There. A noise sounded from the office. Moving in that direction, he stilled at the sight of her sitting at the desk doing some work on her computer. She was so beautiful. As he leaned against the doorframe, she grumbled about something. That made him smile. Then she stood up and stretched. He could clearly see her rounded belly. His heart drummed loudly in his ears. “Lick the girl,” whispered through his mind. An urge to give her wrist a licking kiss came over him, but he pushed it aside. If she didn’t respond, his heart would be broken forever, and if she did, that would mean Joelle was not the one for him and never had been. He tried to pull his gaze away from her belly, but he couldn’t. The sight of her round with his child sent daggers of love through his heart. He loved her. She meant everything to him. Just being around her made him happy. Now that she carried his child, they would be a family. The family he thought he’d never have. Tears stung his eyes, but he blinked them away. He may have a fight on his hands since she didn’t come to him when she found out about the baby. But he had a

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strong feeling she’d soon be his forever. That feeling eased his troubled mind. **** A feeling of peace washed over Rain. That feeling usually didn’t come over her unless she was close to Trent. She grumbled to herself that she didn’t need him. Standing up, she stretched the kinks from her body then stroked her swelling belly. Soon, little one, very soon, Mama will be holding you. She felt a stab of guilt for not telling Trent yet. The last thing she needed was drama, and not telling him for so long was sure to make him extremely mad. He came from a loving family, and she was pretty sure he would love the baby. She just wasn’t sure he loved her. He seemed to like her a lot, but she didn’t really know how he felt about her deep down. A movement by the door caught her attention. The outline of a man standing in the doorway had her squealing, jumping back, and looking for a weapon. Son of a bitch, where had he come from? “It’s me, Rain. I’m sorry I startled you. Your new rounded look suits you. I’ll have to remember to keep you pregnant.” Trent’s voice floated from the doorway as he turned on the light. Rain let out the breath she’d been holding. She turned off the desk lamp and then turned to him. “Don’t ever do that to me again! What is so important that you had to come here at eleven o’clock at night?” She tapped her foot to let him know she was frustrated with him. A mixture of relief that he knew about the baby and a feeling of dread that he might be mad at her surged through her. “We need to talk.” Turning on his heel, he headed for the living room. She followed and frowned when he plopped down on the couch and kicked off his shoes. Did he think he was staying? “What do you want, Trent? It’s getting late.”

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His green eyes caressed her belly possessively. She soothingly rubbed her rounded abdomen. “What I want is my family. Why didn’t you tell me you were pregnant?” He patted the couch next to him. Rain slowly sat next to him. Guilt had her biting her lip. “I didn’t tell you because we are just friends with benefits.” She took his hand in hers and begged him with her eyes to understand. “I would never tie you down with a baby. The little one is a blessing to me.” She paused then sighed tiredly. “A long time ago I was told I would probably never have a child. The baby is mine. No need for you to worry about it.” He raised their hands and kissed hers. “I don’t think you understand. The baby and I are a package deal.” Rain felt her temper flaring. “Unbelievable! What happens when another woman catches your eye?” Trent shrugged his shoulders. “I won’t need another woman. I’ll have you.” She looked him over and then raised a brow. “What about your motto—Catch and Release? What is going to happen when you release me for good? I can tell you right now, you are not taking my baby with you. This baby is mine, and mine alone.” It was Trent’s turn to raise a brow. “Yours? How did you manage to get pregnant all alone?” Damn, he really knew how to rile her up. Frustrated, she rolled her eyes and said the first thing that came to mind. “I just did, okay?” Peace suddenly washed away her anger. “He’s the one,” whispered in her ear. “You said that didn’t you?” “Said what?” Confusion crossed his handsome face. He must be a good actor. “‛He’s the one.’ I hear it a lot when I’m around you. You’re a ventriloquist, aren’t you? That explains a lot.” I’m not going crazy after all. “Sorry to disappoint, but I’m not a ventriloquist. I do, however, like the idea of being the one for you.” His eyes shot to her rounded

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belly then up to hers. “Besides, you are having my baby, so I may as well be the one. We are a package deal, remember.” Rain worried her teeth over her lip. She knew she loved him. She just didn’t know if he loved her. “I don’t want my baby to be raised in a loveless home. You don’t have to stay.” Trent leaned down and kissed her lips gently. “It won’t be a loveless home. I love you, babe.” At her raised brow he ran his hand through his hair. “I lied before when I said I only wanted to be friends with benefits. I need you and I love you. Every breath I take away from you is painful.” Happiness and peace drenched her soul. “I lied, too. I’ve loved you from the moment we met.” Trent pulled her into his lap and slid his hand over her tummy. The baby kicked. “Did you feel that?” he asked in wonder. “Oh yeah, I felt it. This little one has got powerful legs. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner. I just didn’t want you to feel obligated to me if you didn’t love me.” She rested her hand on his and grinned when the baby kicked again. Love shone in his green eyes, making them almost glow. She loved his eyes. Trent leaned down and took her lips in a hungry kiss. Their tongues battled until they had to separate just to breathe. “Never doubt that I love you.” His hand stroked her rounded tummy. “You have given me something I’d thought I would never have.” At her questioning look, he whispered, “My own family to love.” Rain couldn’t stop the tear that slid down her cheek. “You will always have us, my love.” A squeal escaped her lips when he suddenly stood and headed toward her bedroom. “What are you doing?” “Taking my woman to bed. I need to explore your lovely, rounded body.” Warmth spread through her. Peace surrounded her heart. All was well.

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**** Guilt made him dream of her. Trent saw her in the distance. Her dark hair swirled around her shoulders. She was as lovely as ever. He had to get to her. To tell her how sorry he was that he hadn’t died with her. Running as fast as he could, he called out her name. Joelle looked back and smiled at him. The fog was starting to roll in. With frantic breaths, Trent searched for her. Cupping his hands around his mouth, he called out her name. Laughter right behind him made him turn around and stare in shock at her. “I got you,” she said. Heart aching, he remembered she loved to tease him and jump out from behind him. Tears started to run down his cheeks. “I’m so sorry. I wish I could go back in time and save you. Please, forgive me.” Concern removed the smile from her lovely face. “There is nothing to forgive, my love. You gave me so much joy. My life was happy because of you. I love you.” A gentle smile crossed her face. “Now you must love me enough to let me go. Seeing you sad makes me sad. Rain is your vero amore.” At the shaking of Trent’s head, she nodded. “Yes, she is. I was never your true love. Please let me go. As long as you are sad, I can’t find complete happiness.” “I can’t let you go.” She reached out and brushed his cheek. “You have to. Concetta said it is time for you to accept your vero amore. She sent me here to talk to you.” Confusion and pain swirled around his chest. “Who is Concetta, and how did she send you to me? You died.” Joelle laughed softly. “Concetta is the good witch that blessed your family. Her name means pure. Good witches are very powerful. It was easy for her to send me to you. She has been watching over you and Rain all along. But now she wants you to stop grieving for me

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and embrace your true love. You must give Rain the licking kiss. Promise me you will.” Her image started to fade, and his heart rate picked up. “Don’t go.” “Promise me.” Sadness transformed her features. His heart ripped in half. He couldn’t take the sight of her sad face. “I promise,” he whispered. A smile lit her face just before she faded away. His body shuddered, and sadness crowded in on him. A bright blue light shone down on him, and a kind but firm voice said, “No more of this sadness, Trent.” A tear slid down his cheek. “Why didn’t you save her? She was so kind and sweet.” “I was not in control of her destiny because she was not blessed like Rain and Branda.” The light glowed and swayed as if air danced through it. The past rushed up from deep in his mind, Branda escaping a mad man and Rain living because the snake froze in midstrike, giving him a chance to kill it. Concetta had saved them. “You saved them— Thank you.” “You are welcome, but I still feel your sadness over the loss of your friend, Joelle. She is fine. Look for yourself.” The light parted, and he saw Joelle smiling and laughing at something a young man said. As he watched, she was surrounded by smiling, happy people. A little girl waved her hand, and a flower appeared. She giggled and put it in Joelle’s hair. Joelle turned and hugged the little girl. She looked so happy, tears of happiness and relief rolled down his cheeks. The scene disappeared, and the light reappeared. Peace washed over him. A feeling of being released tore through his soul. He blinked at the feeling of being free. With startling clarity, he understood that his life had just undergone a dramatic and permanent change. Euphoria had infused every cell of his body, and he knew it was staying.

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A voice came from the light. “I wish you would have released her memory a long time ago. Your brothers were so much easier to lead to their true love than you. It is time you moved on and embraced your destiny. When you wake up, I want you to give Rain the test.” Trent felt something kick him in the ass. Coming fully awake, he felt the kick again. His heart felt light for the first time in years. Smiling, he turned over and scooted down to Rain’s belly. He leaned in closely and whispered, “We need to have a man-to-man talk. I understand that you are little, but the next time Concetta comes around, you need to let your papa know immediately. No more doing her bidding without talking to me first. We need to be a team, little guy.” He kissed Rain’s tummy. “By the way, hold on for the ride.” Trent moved up and kissed Rain’s lips softly. She moaned and asked, “What were you telling the baby?” “I was telling him to hold on for the ride.” “What ride?” “This one.” Trent took her wrist and gave it a slow licking kiss. A wild surge of energy raced through Rain’s body, and her nipples turned as hard as diamonds. “What just happened?” she squeaked the second her body quit shuddering. “You just became my proven vero amore. I love you.” Shock shook her voice. “I’m your true love?” “Yes.” A smile crossed her face. “That is why all those things were happening to us. We were being guided to one another.” “That’s right, my love.” Leaning down, Trent kissed her shoulder. Running his index finger over the back of her smooth flesh, he moved it tenderly across the tattoo of a heart with butterfly wings that looked like they were flying away. “You know we are going to have to get your tattoo artist to clip the wings on this tattoo.” “Why on earth would you want me to do that?”

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“Because I don’t want you or anyone else to get the idea that your love can freely fly away at any time. You belong to me!” Trent couldn’t help the possessive tone of his voice. “Well, if I have to clip my wings, I guess you’ll have to change your motto,” Rain teased huskily. Trent looked lovingly into her eyes as he ran his hand tenderly over her rounded belly. “Never.” Her brows drew together, and he could see storm clouds gathering in her blue eyes. If she could shoot lightning out of them, he had a feeling she would. A mischievous feeling entered his heart. He loved riling her up then kissing and making up. “I promise to always catch you and spend hours releasing all of your pent-up sexual tension.” He leaned forward and brushed his lips across hers. “Forever and ever, my fiery little angel.”

THE END [email protected] DAKOTADAWN.ORG

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Reading romance has been a passion of mine for a long time. I usually don’t have a clue what’s on TV or at the movie theaters. When people are shocked that I don’t know what’s playing, I just smile and tell them I live in a cave. ;) A love of mine is bringing joy to others through the tales I weave of dominatingly sexy men, witty women, good friends, and scorching scenes that get your juices flowing. Characters pop into my head, I grab a pen, and the journey begins. The trip through fantasyland to happily-ever-after is always a fascinating ride. Thank goodness it is a ride you can take over and over again.

Also by Dakota Dawn Ménage Amour: Blessed 1: Blessed Times Two Siren Classic: Hidden Angel Siren Allure: The Most Exquisite Gift

Available at BOOKSTRAND.COM

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com