An Ellora’s Cave Romantica Publication
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Catch Me If You Can ISBN 9781419911248 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Catch Me If You Can Copyright © 2007 Rose Middleton Edited by Jaynie Ritchie. Cover art by Syneca. Electronic book Publication June 2007 This book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc.® 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 443103502. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.
Content Advisory: S – ENSUOUS E – ROTIC X – TREME Ellora’s Cave Publishing offers three levels of Romantica™ reading entertainment: S (S-ensuous), E (Erotic), and X (X-treme). The following material contains graphic sexual content meant for mature readers. This story has been rated S-ensuous. S-ensuous love scenes are explicit and leave nothing to the imagination. E-rotic love scenes are explicit, leave nothing to the imagination, and are high in volume per the overall word count. E-rated titles might contain material that some readers find objectionable—in other words, almost anything goes, sexually. E-rated titles are the most graphic titles we carry in terms of both sexual language and descriptiveness in these works of literature. X-treme titles differ from E-rated titles only in plot premise and storyline execution. Stories designated with the letter X tend to contain difficult or controversial subject matter not for the faint of heart.
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN Rose Middleton
Trademarks Acknowledgement The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of the following wordmarks mentioned in this work of fiction: Disneyland: Disney Enterprises, Inc. The Ivy: L.A. Desserts, Inc. Victoria Bitter VB: Foster's Australia Limited Corporation
Catch Me If You Can
Chapter One Standing with hands on hips, Emma Kingston surveyed the dance floor from the catwalks. The art deco furniture pieces sat silent, placed to maximize movement between the dance floor and the bar. She gave a single nod of satisfaction at the aesthetic appeal of the place, happy she could be true to her creative passions. What she wouldn’t give to be true to them all the time but something had to pay the bills and letting go of her one chance to exact revenge on an old pal wasn’t in the bargain. The place had come together well and all preparations had run relatively smoothly. Well, except for one of the catwalk bridges snapping off its supports one night. Health and safety inspectors grilled her and the crew relentlessly, assessing the cause of the damage. Deliberate sabotage was ruled out, leaving the only reasonable cause a breakdown in construction. Quick to act, she terminated the contractors and replaced them with a better mob. The boss, living comfortably on the other side of the world, praised her decisive actions. Emma was just grateful she wasn’t fired. Losing the job was not on her agenda. Without it, she would never come face-toface with the man who’d occupied her dreams for almost four years. Minus the job, she would be forced to fly back to Australia and, while that didn’t faze her, she didn’t want to give the impression she was running to him. She needed him to come to her. The fact that it was a part of his job and not a voluntary action didn’t matter. If Leonard Banks thought for one second she wanted him, she’d never stand a chance. “Miss. Kingston?” Emma’s head snapped to attention as she spied the latest recruit to her team, Tommy Fernandez, climbing the wide curving staircase. She smiled at the young man. Tommy’s background in law enforcement suited Emma well. He’d be required to intercept any possible trouble once the club opened and act as her liaison to the police should anything arise. He waved when he saw her looking, a cordless phone in his hand. “Phone call.” Meeting him at the top of the stairs, Emma thanked him and brought the phone to her ear. “This is Kingston.” The deep chuckle on the other end brought a smile to her lips. “Hello, Emma.” “Rocket. What time is it in Melbourne?” The time difference always confused her. “Don’t you worry about that. How are the preparations coming along?” “We’re going to open on time, don’t you worry. How was the wedding?”
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She admired his dedication. He’d just gotten married and was due to fly off to some romantic Pacific island with his wife, and here he was, calling her to check on business. “We had a great night,” he said on a dreamy sigh. Emma kept a tight hold on her imagination. “We’re flying out in a couple of hours. As for Lenny, he’s on his way. His flight left just after midday, my time.” Emma felt a flutter in her belly. God, Lenny would be here so soon. All these years she’d been dreaming and fantasizing about him and before long, he’d be within arm’s reach. Heart pounding, she closed her eyes and conjured an image of him. She longed to touch his smooth Italian skin, tangle her fingers in his long silky black hair. What she wouldn’t give for those full, sensuous lips to be on her skin. Emma swallowed. “Emma?” “Sorry.” She cleared her throat. “A little distracted by the contractors. When will his plane land at LAX?” “About seven tomorrow morning, your time. Are you up to picking him up?” Emma smiled, glad Rocket couldn’t see the smug satisfaction on her face. Oh the look on Lenny’s face that early in the morning when he clapped eyes on her was going to be worth it. “Yeah, sure,” she said casually. As far as Rocket knew, she and Lenny had once been partners in the police force. It was a matter of public record, so she couldn’t ignore or deny it. But Rocket would never know the extent of her designs on Lenny, or the erotically fuelled dreams she’d been having of her spunky ex-partner for the last four years. As for Lenny, he wouldn’t know what hit him. “Thanks. He has reservations at a hotel, so if you could drop him off or show him around town, that would be great.” Emma nodded. She knew this already. Rocket’s last fax gave her Lenny’s flight number and hotel reservation details. “No problem, boss.” He chuffed. “Another one.” “Pardon?” “Never mind.” Rocket chuckled. “Just keep him out of trouble, please.” Oh if she had her way then he’d be in plenty of trouble. But she kept her voice calm and replied, “Don’t worry. Lenny’s in good hands.” Very good hands, really, Emma thought wickedly. “I’ll see you for the grand opening.” Emma laughed. “Just enjoy your honeymoon, and treat your wife with absolute reverence, okay?” “Sure.”
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Emma terminated the connection before Tommy’s voice hauled her back to reality. “The boss man?” She nodded. “Yup. He’s coming for opening night,” she informed him, handing him the phone and smoothing her hands down the designer-label silk black trousers. “So we’d better have this place ship-shape. Got it?” Tommy’s lopsided grin soothed her thumping heart. Although she’d never worked directly by his side, Tommy had been one of her contacts in downtown LA. With her as a Private Investigator, and him as a cop on the beat, they made a powerful alliance. She’d been hesitant to employ him at first. Young cops could be a handful, she knew from experience. But there was wisdom in Tommy’s eyes she couldn’t deny. And with Jordan barking in her ear that she’d be a fool to turn down Tommy’s application, she’d given in. “Got it. What time is Jordan coming in?” Emma shrugged. She wasn’t Jordan’s keeper. Why everyone thought she was annoyed her, but it was almost understandable. They had worked together before the club, and they had been lovers, so everybody naturally assumed certain things. Since leaving the small private investigations company both she and Jordan had worked for, Emma knew she wanted him with her on this project. He was reliable, intelligent and a damn good security agent. Despite their relationship not working out, they’d remained close friends and watched each other’s backs. “Soon, I suppose. Who knows?” Tommy smiled. “So who is the dude flying in from Down Under? Ex-boyfriend?” Emma laughed. If only. “Nah, we used be partners though.” “Oh.” Tommy’s cheeky smile faded at the mention of her former life as a cop. He missed the life, as she did, and any mention of it usually sent him down memory lane. “Why did he quit?” Emma dropped the smile and shook her head. That topic was off limits. Having lived it was bad enough, she didn’t want to continue dragging the nightmare that saw Lenny on life support and her career under a big black cloud back to the fore. “Sorry,” Tommy spoke, his voice soft and full of concern. “Touchy subject, eh?” Emma nodded. “It’s history and we’re looking toward the future. Let’s just say that Lenny didn’t leave the force willingly. He’s chief of security at the club in Melbourne, so he’s dropping in to make sure we’re on track.” “And does he know you’re running the show?” Jordan’s voice caused them both to turn. Emma twisted her mouth at the handsome face as he climbed the stairs one by one. She saw the deliberate ease of his movement and shook her head in playful admonishment. He could be such a sneak. “Of course he does,” she insisted, though she had no idea what Lenny knew. “He’s fine with it.”
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Jordan chuckled, the sound low and sinister. It rumbled up her spine, familiar and downright exciting. It was true, she still thought he was a sexy guy. Who wouldn’t? At six-two, with shoulders wide and strong, and legs thick and reliable, Jordan could easily model the latest fashions. As for his sun-kissed golden skin and curly brown hair, the words cheeky and mischievous jumped to mind. The man had a talent for zeroing in on her with those pale blue eyes, leaving her feeling exposed and raw. It wasn’t just his insatiable need for honesty that left her feeling like a cheat, it was the way he seemed to want to burrow into her soul. She hadn’t been the woman he wanted. Oh they fit together in a physical sense, but in every other way she didn’t feel like she measured up. For the record, he was the total opposite of Lenny, which was why she’d allowed him to seduce her. But in the end, it wasn’t enough. She tried to pinpoint the exact reason why she was so hooked on Lenny. After all, he’d treated her like a little sister for crying out loud, protecting her with over-the-top rules about what she could and couldn’t do on the job. At twenty-three, she did not need a big brother. Even if she was a rookie, she was perfectly capable of looking after herself, thank you very much. She remembered watching him trounce off with some floozy each Friday night after happy hour, wishing like crazy it were her in those pink stilettos and the tight leather mini. He’d been such a lady’s man, downright dishonorable and yet mouthwatering and desirable. It hadn’t mattered to her that he’d been so flamboyant, or led by women who batted their eyelashes at him. And it hadn’t mattered to her he was with a different woman every week. It only mattered that he wasn’t taking her to bed. He’d confided in her about how guilty he felt about his sister’s disappearance. Like he’d somehow caused her to turn into the teenager from hell when she hit sixteen and then take off the minute she turned eighteen. Emma remembered the pain in his eyes, exacerbated by the vodka shots they’d downed. In a moment of booze-fuelled craziness, she’d reached for him. In her arms, he growled, fighting off the tears threatening to fall. Drunk, she’d tried to talk him out of his sullen mood, but when she pulled back, his lips had found hers and any thought of talk was gone. It turned into the most sensuous and needy kiss she’d ever experienced. While his hands had remained demurely on her hips, his tongue had traced the crevices of her mouth and his eyes had penetrated hers with white-hot passion. Emma hadn’t forgotten the kiss, tanked as she was, but Lenny seemed none the wiser. She’d resented him for that and hated herself for allowing it to happen. As much as she wanted him in her bed, she didn’t want the experience tainted by grog. “Emma?” Jordan shook her arm gently. She blinked to dispel the image of her and Lenny locked in a drunken embrace. “Sorry.” She despised the nervous laughter that slipped
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between her lips. The wariness in Jordan’s eyes caused her nerves to skitter wildly. He knew her too well. “Never mind.” His expression told her they’d talk it out later. “Look, we need to iron out the bugs in the surveillance system before he gets here.” She nodded, feeling a little disjointed after indulging in her memories of Lenny. Jordan was right. They needed to make a good impression on the boss’s right-hand man. If they demonstrated a faulty surveillance system, their behinds were cactus. She followed Jordan into the large central office, her thoughts centered on her plans for Lenny. Alone with Jordan though, she should’ve been on her guard. “What’s going on, Emma?” he demanded, backing her up against the desk. Although he wasn’t angry, she sensed his frustration. “N-Nothing,” she stammered. “I swear.” “Ha!” He threw his head back, exposing his stubble-lined jaw. “That’s a lie if ever I heard it. Serious, who is this guy? And how close were you two, exactly?” “Exactly?” She raised an eyebrow. Was Jordan jealous? “Lenny and I worked together, that was it. He didn’t mix pleasure with business.” Jordan waited, seeming none the wiser by the disgust in her voice. “Oh all right,” she sighed, “I had a crush on him, okay? A little, newbie cop crush on her experienced and heroic partner. Is that what you wanted to hear?” Jordan shook his head, slow and deliberate. He always did that, wanted to be in control with the final say on everything. The five inches of height difference meant he practically towered over her. Once upon a time, it excited her. Right now, it felt claustrophobic. “No. I want to know why you went all dreamy-eyed back there. Are you still hot for him?” She pushed against his rock-solid chest. “Back up, Jordan. You don’t intimidate me.” He quirked an eyebrow. “Are you telling me to butt out?” Emma laughed, relaxing a little. “You betcha, but when did that ever stop you?” She took a moment to regain her composure and then met his demanding gaze. “I know you care about me and you don’t want to see me get hurt. I understand that, I really do. But you’ve got to let me live my own life, Jordan.” “So, what? I’m supposed to stand back and let him break your heart?” She smiled at his sincerity. “Yes. If I get my heart stomped on, it’s for my own good. But you have to let me make that mistake on my own. Lenny’s a good man.” Jordan sighed and shook his head. He stepped over to the control panel and plonked down in the swivel chair. “You want to take him to bed. I know that look, Emma, and if he’s half the man you’ve described to me over the years then yeah, he’ll follow you to bed. But he won’t fall in love with you. And he won’t stay.” She nodded. As much as she wanted Lenny in her bed, she understood his aversion to commitment wasn’t going to allow miracles. But her plan wasn’t to make him stay.
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Rather, she intended on seducing him and showing him what he had missed out on. And when he pleaded for one more night, she’d turn the tables and leave him wanting. Jordan turned in his seat, his eyes searching hers. “What are you planning, you little devil?” Keeping her expression emotionless for as long as possible, Emma simply stared at Jordan until it was too much to bear. “Who, me?” she cooed in complete, mock innocence. “Yes, you. Lenny’s in for a whole lot of trouble, isn’t he?” Emma allowed a Cheshire cat grin to spread across her lips. Power tripped through her veins at the thought of bringing Lenny down a peg or two. Jordan shook his head, his mouth tipped in a crooked expression. She’d seen it before and refused to let his I hope you know what the hell you’re doing attitude bring her down. “You’re one complicated woman, Emma Kingston. I feel a little pity for that man.” “Well,” she straightened, smoothing her tailored jacket down, “don’t you go warning him, you hear? Or you’ll be in a world of trouble all your own.”
***** When the plane’s captain announced their approach to Los Angeles International Airport, Lenny checked his watch. It wasn’t yet seven the morning, the sun was rising and he hadn’t slept a wink. He’d tried, but anticipation gnawed at his insides. Trust Rocket to give him that one little piece of information right before he disappeared. Emma. Lenny closed his eyes and like every other time during the flight, there she was. He shook his head at the image. This just wasn’t right. How could Emma Kingston be in charge of security at the club in LA? Of all places, Los Angeles. How? The last he’d heard, she was still a cop in Melbourne. When he’d been released from hospital, he thought about going to see her but his courage failed him over and over. The terrible nightmare that ripped them apart reminded him time and again how easily he could have gotten her killed. She loved being a cop, enjoyed it with such passion he couldn’t but remember what it was like to be a rookie. Better still, she was good at it. Her instincts were spot on and he suspected she’d rise through the ranks in no time. Unlike him, she hadn’t come from generations of cops but it never slowed her down. She was the first in her family, making her comfortable transition to the job much more remarkable. How the hell had she come to be in a foreign country and a completely different line of work? He didn’t doubt her resilience or her skill. Emma would adapt to any situation with ease, she had the know-how and instincts to do his job better than he did. But why?
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“Are you okay?” the older woman beside him asked. Lenny opened his eyes and rolled his head toward her. He guessed she’d be about fifty with a friendly face and kind eyes. He smiled gently. “Tired but okay.” “You didn’t sleep very much,” she commented. “Do you dislike flying?” “No.” If only she knew how frequently he flew. “My head’s a little too noisy to sleep. Too much to think about.” She smiled. “Are you visiting on business, or here on pleasure?” Now there was a question, Lenny thought. Business or pleasure indeed. It certainly would be a pleasure to catch up with his old friend Emma. “Business,” he replied. “You?” “I’m visiting my son, he lives in Bakersfield with his American wife. They’ve just had their first baby.” “Congratulations.” As per the pilot’s instructions, the older woman fastened her seat belt. Lenny didn’t need to move. His was still firmly buckled about his hips. The plane began its descent though Lenny didn’t dare look out the window. He waited, listened to the whine of the engines and sighed thankfully when the wheels touched the tarmac. He mightn’t dislike flying but he wasn’t too fond of landings. While the plane taxied along the runway, his mind turned back to thoughts of Emma. He wondered if she’d changed from the sweet young woman he’d first met all those years ago. Would she still be caring and kind, like she’d been when he was in hospital? He hoped so, because maybe then she’d understand why he never returned her calls. He’d trusted Emma with his darkest secrets and decided a clean break was best for both of them. She wouldn’t want an invalid hanging around any more than he would. So he’d gone off to recuperate without burdening her any further. The more he thought about it, the more certain he was she’d understand. Had the tables been turned, she would’ve done the same. That was Emma, putting others before herself. If she’d been the one shot by that crazy lunatic, she wouldn’t have wanted to lump him with the burden of recovery either. Smiling to himself, he unbuckled the safety belt and stood to stretch his cramped legs and arms. He grabbed his bag from the overhead compartment and followed the other passengers out the exit. Emerging from the access tunnel, he scanned the airport terminal. Surely there wouldn’t be too many others waiting for their loved ones. He was wrong and the crowd outside was abuzz with excitement. His gaze skipped from one unfamiliar face to another. It was a long time before he saw her and even then he had to do a double take to make sure he was really looking at Emma.
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Lenny stopped moving and nearly dropped his bag. This woman was not the Emma he remembered. She was curvier, her hair shorter and spikier. It was black. It used to be blonde. He couldn’t tear his gaze away. The hair style was funky and hip and oh-so sexy. He swallowed. Her long blonde tresses once gave her an angelic look, yet this was… Lenny shook his head… Wow. Forcing his eyes lower, he took in the sleek black trousers, crisp white shirt and fitted black jacket. Dressed for business, he thought, though the clothes hugged her hourglass figure enticingly. Lenny didn’t remember her ever being so alluring. Hell, he’d never looked at her that way. She’d been like a little sister to him. But when he met her gaze he couldn’t resist one wild, uninhibited vision of them naked and sweaty. She swallowed and he cursed himself. He hadn’t meant for her to see the lust streaking through his body. Good thing his long leather jacket covered the tightness in his pants. What would she think if she knew? She’d probably kick his ass right back to Australia and inform Rocket of his wayward employee. With a mental shake, Lenny pulled himself together. He straightened his shoulders, lifted his head a notch higher, puffed his chest out and powered over to her with a big friendly smile. “Emma, it’s so nice to see you.” She smiled and his sweet little princess was back. “I couldn’t believe my ears when I heard you were coming.” She didn’t pull him into an embrace and an odd sense of disappointment twisted his stomach. Well, he’d see about that. After everything they’d shared and been through, a hug was the least he could do. He let his bag drop to the floor. Reaching for her, he saw a flash in her eyes before she stepped toward him. He wished he knew how to read her better. What was that? He wrapped his arms around her voluptuous body, his mind buzzing with confusion and excitement. But his thoughts were sideswiped by the crush of her breasts against his chest and the fragrance of soap and morning freshness enveloping him. “Lenny!” She laughed, her voice muffled by his chest. “Let me go.” She pulled back and stared up into his eyes. There wasn’t a big height difference between them, just a couple of inches, and yet she seemed so small and delicate in his arms. Her gaze was warm and inviting, her hands on his chest blazing hot through his shirt. Focusing, he took her hands in his and held her arms out wide, making a brief visual sweep of her body. When he found her face again, she shook her head at his antics. “You are gorgeous,” he noted. “Where did those curves come from?” “I’ve always had them, Lenny.” He let his eyes pull wide. “Wow.”
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She smiled, her cheeks flushed and she tugged her hands out of his. “Thank you.” He retrieved his bag and slung it back over his shoulder. “So how have you been, Emma? This is the biggest surprise.” She turned and started walking. Lenny followed. “I’ve been great. Who would’ve thought, huh? Meeting up here in LA like this?” I’ll say, his mind screamed. Who the hell would’ve thought? He was still stuck on her body, a curvaceous wonderland he’d never before noticed. How? How, how, how? His mind raced as he fell into step beside her. This was too much to comprehend at this early hour. Rocket had a lot to answer for. He had to have known they were once partners. It was impossible for him not to know. For starters, her time as a Victorian police officer would have been on her résumé, and that would have been enough to trigger Rocket’s curiosity. Lenny frowned, dying to know why Rocket left it to the last minute to tell him he was about to meet Emma Kingston in LA. “What’s wrong?” she asked, her playful tug on his jacket sleeve enough to bring his thoughts to a standstill. “Nothing. Just trying to remember if I locked up properly.” It was a lame excuse and she saw right through it. Something in her eyes made him feel like the little kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar. The trouble was, the desirable treat was walking right alongside him. But she worked for Rocket too, just like he did. He couldn’t forget that. “How long have you been in LA?” he asked, deciding small talk was the way to go. “Four years.” Lenny came to a halt. Three steps later, so did Emma. She turned to him with a calm expression on her face. “You’ve been here for four years?” She nodded. “You left Australia soon after I got out of hospital?” Emma rolled her eyes at the rhetorical question. “Yes. I quit the force, became a PI and then followed the work out here. Does that satisfy your curiosity?” No. And he made sure with the look in his eye she knew it. But for the life of him, Lenny couldn’t make his mouth work. If his guess was correct, she’d been calling him to tell him she was leaving. He’d stupidly erased her messages without a second thought. He always believed they would catch up one day and reminisce over the good old days. Never would he have expected her to pack her bags and take off. She was a stable woman, came from a steady and reliable family. He couldn’t help but wonder what her parents thought. “I just—” He swallowed. “Did I have anything to do with you leaving the force?”
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Her eyes darkened and he had his answer but she didn’t speak. Instead, she gave a lazy shrug and kept walking. Lenny raced to catch up. “I’m sorry if I did, Em,” he explained. “You were a good cop. They would have been sorry to see you go.” “I see,” she said softly. “Was that why you didn’t return my phone calls?” Oh so she wasn’t okay with that. Damn. He needed to be careful with his choice of words. “No. I didn’t want you to feel like you had to take care of me.” “We were partners, Lenny. You could have at least explained it to me. Or was I too much of a rookie?” He heard the sharp tone of her voice and wondered what to say. Words were not his forte and he didn’t do sensitive very well either. Double damn. “You’re angry. We should talk.” She stopped walking. Lenny stopped as well. When her gaze met his, he was amazed he didn’t spontaneously explode. Oh boy, he had a lot of explaining to do. She was right. They were partners, they’d shared everything and she deserved an explanation. “Coffee?” he suggested, pointing to a vending machine and some chairs. “Sure, come on.” Coffees in hand, they sat across from each other in the strangely busy airport. When he’d left Tullamarine Airport in Melbourne, it hadn’t been all that busy even though it was noon. Here, people rushed to and fro, shouted to others and some generally looked lost. It was seven in the morning. Too early for such chaos. “I’m sorry,” he started. “You’re right. I should have explained but I never thought you’d leave the force, let alone the country.” She smiled. “Neither did I. I just needed to—” She stopped short. “What? You needed to what?” “Start over,” she said after a beat. Lenny frowned. “Why would you need to start over, Em? You were onto a good thing. You were going places.” In the silence that followed, understanding smacked him hard. She’d needed to get away from him, from their partnership, from the memories they shared. He tried to put himself in her shoes and comprehend the daunting task of continuing on after what happened. He didn’t envy the burden she’d been left with. What he didn’t get was why. “I’m sorry I didn’t return your calls. You were trying to say goodbye, weren’t you?” She nodded, her knuckles turning white. “I thought I should explain it to you.” He chuffed at the irony. “I didn’t want to burden you with my injuries. You needed to get on with the job, not spend energy looking after me.”
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Her eyes met his, searching for something he couldn’t name. The only thing Lenny saw in her expression was regret. Those sparkling blue eyes wanted him to be honest about everything. Did that include the need to take her to bed right now? Whoa. Lenny closed his eyes for a moment, suddenly feeling shaky and lightheaded. Take her to bed? Are you crazy? Never mix personal and professional. Emma was strictly professional and he couldn’t forget it. He just wished he could convince his nether regions to settle. When he opened his eyes she was right there, still demanding honesty. “Truth was, Em, I felt terrible about that night. You could’ve gotten killed. I would never have forgiven myself.” “You felt guilty?” She sounded as if she didn’t believe him. “That’s why you couldn’t face me?” “I let you down. I let us down. I took off after that perp without thinking. I never knew he had a gun.” She shrugged and she said, “Neither did I.” “I acted irresponsibly.” “And yet you became a hero. It wouldn’t have mattered what happened that night. You came out looking like a legend.” Unsure of what to say, Lenny sipped the bitter coffee. He pulled a face and groaned. “Ugh.” Emma smiled. “We have better coffee at the club.” He chuckled. “We don’t have coffee at the club.” It seemed strange that she and Rocket had built a business partnership right under Lenny’s nose and he knew nothing of it. Stranger still, it didn’t bother him at all. Their eyes met and they both chuckled softly. He felt the tension lift, thankful for small mercies. He didn’t know how much more he could take of talking about that night. It didn’t help his memories were somewhat blurry or that he felt guilty she could have been killed. “Look,” she said, tossing her empty cup in a nearby trash can. “Let’s just say we’re both sorry and leave it at that? Why don’t we start over?” Lenny warmed to her idea immediately. He smiled and threw out his half empty cup. “Deal.”
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Chapter Two “So where do you live?” Lenny asked casually as she pulled the Jeep out of the parking lot. “Manhattan Beach.” Emma smiled at the thought of her adopted hometown. “It’s just down the road, about fifteen minutes. Your hotel is further away.” As she swung onto North San Diego Freeway, she became aware of how close he was in the space of the four-wheel drive. He was warm and masculine, all the things she remembered most about him. Still in great shape, he looked as good now as he ever did in uniform. There wasn’t even the hint of his wounds, though she knew he’d worked hard to regain his strength. She felt that strength when he pulled her into his arms and wondered how he’d look without his clothes. It wasn’t difficult to imagine the hard lines of his muscles and her mouth watered at the thought of painting him. The toned torso would transfer to canvas beautifully and the pleasure it’d give her to render his likeness with paint would last a lifetime. His comments about her curves sparked the power simmering in her veins. Once upon a time, she lacked the confidence to use it. Now was a different story. Finally he’d noticed. She could tell by the stiffness in his groin when he hugged her. How he’d remained oblivious to her rounded hips all those years she never knew. “Where’s my hotel?” “Beverly Hills.” She nodded toward the glove compartment. “Check-in isn’t until late afternoon so I did it for you yesterday. The key’s in there.” He smiled. “You were always so thoughtful. What about the club?” She hooked her thumb over her shoulder and pointed backward. “Back near the airport. I’ll take you there later. You look tired.” He nodded. “I didn’t sleep on the plane.” Had he been kept awake by thoughts of her? Lord but she hoped so. “Catch a few z’s at the hotel. I’ll swing by after a few hours and take you on a tour.” “Can I meet your crew today?” Your crew. She smiled at the thought. He had one of his own, trusted buddies he could leave the club to when he was away. Where he had ex-cops working for him, she had ex-PIs. Except for Tommy. “Sure.” She nodded, squinting up at the clear morning sky. “It’ll be quite warm, so dress appropriately.” He laughed. “So what’s your day like?”
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“I have another round of interviews. We still have to hire bartenders and two more security personnel. I’ll come for you when they’re over. If things run over time, I’ll let you know.” Slowing for the traffic, Emma glanced over at Lenny. She was glad he still had his long silky black hair, it made it easier to bring her fantasy of running her fingers through it to life. “So, you haven’t said anything about my hair,” she teased, knowing it was the total opposite of what he would’ve remembered. To her surprise, he reached over and massaged her scalp. Hot tingles of delight skittered down her spine and goose bumps pebbled her flesh. His fingers were strong on her skin, tempting her to sit back, close her eyes and enjoy. “I love it, Em.” Then he took his hand away and she could breathe again. “Why?” She frowned. “Why what?” “Why so short? Why black? Why?” “Oh.” She took a deep breath and reminded herself of the speech she’d rehearsed. “Something different. Everyone kept thinking I was this sweet little angel, innocent and kind. I had to make a bold statement.” It wasn’t much of a lie but she had no intention of ever admitting the entire truth of it. He chuckled, soft and smooth, his breath making it across the short distance to her cheek. “Bold, that’s for sure. I bet all the guys love it.” “Ha!” “What does that mean?” When she had it styled, Jordan nearly flipped his lid. He loved it long and golden. She wanted something to distinguish herself from the Emma by Jordan’s side, and the Emma who could stand on her own two feet. “It means that I shocked the hell out of my colleagues.” “And your boyfriend?” She smiled at his not-so-subtle hint. “My boyfriend didn’t speak to me for days.” Emma sensed Lenny’s surprise. “Oh.” “And then he got over it,” she teased. Hell, if Jordan could be jealous of Lenny, there was no harm in having Lenny a little green-eyed over Jordan. Taking the exit ramp onto Wiltshire Boulevard, Emma turned east toward the hotel. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Lenny peering up at the buildings around him. Beverly Hills wasn’t exactly her favorite place, with its up-market sense and snooty fashion stores. She preferred places more homey and earthy, like Manhattan Beach, where she’d felt right at home the minute she arrived. Here, so close to Rodeo Drive and Westwood Village, she stuck out like a sore thumb.
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When she saw the elegant looking Beverly Hills Plaza Hotel, she pulled in to the drive and brought the car to a halt. A valet pounced instantly though she waved him away since she was just dropping someone off. “You’re not coming in?” Lenny sounded disappointed. She turned to him. “I have so much to do today. Your room is a premium suite, with a lovely king-sized bed. You’ve got fax, cable TV and internet hookup. You’ll be fine.” “Well, thanks for coming to get me. I know it’s early.” Emma shrugged. Getting him was totally within her plan, a scheme she’d swing into action as soon as he was rested. She didn’t want to take advantage of a weary traveler. “Any time, Lenny. Now get some rest. You have a busy two weeks coming up.” When he was gone, she put the car in gear and rejoined traffic. Regardless of the morning hour, Wiltshire Boulevard was a one hell of a busy place. With Lenny out of the car, she could think again. His presence dominated her brain space with ease, and while she intended on using that to her advantage, right now she felt so overwhelmed by his touch she almost couldn’t see straight. God, when he massaged her scalp, she thought she’d died and gone to heaven. Those fingers were so strong and firm. She couldn’t wait to feel them on other parts of her body. A shudder worked its way through her as she found the freeway again. She couldn’t believe the look of desire in his eyes, the lust that left her hot and bothered. Lenny never looked at her that way before. If he had, she would’ve jumped his bones long ago. But just as sure as she’d seen his hunger for her, she’d also seen something else. Caution. There it was, that stupid rule of his to keep business and pleasure as far apart as possible. She wasn’t going to let it get in the way this time. Pulling in to the club parking lot, she found Jordan sitting in his Porsche waiting for her. “So Prince Charming is safely tucked away in his hotel then?” “Don’t start,” she warned. “And yes, he’s resting.” Jordan eyed her warily, his haunting pale blue eyes giving her the once-over. “You’re looking rather dapper this morning. Did it work?” Emma rolled her eyes. He seemed to be stuck on the relationship she shared with Lenny and sounded more jealous every time he opened his mouth. Provoking him would make matters worse because when Jordan got stroppy, life got ugly. Instead of teasing him about it, she smiled and locked the car. “I always look this good,” she said with all the sweetness she had. If her hands weren’t full, she would have smoothed them down the snappy outfit. “Now could you please get your mind on task? We have jobs to fill. Did you remember to memo everyone else about this afternoon’s meeting?” He sighed. “Of course. They’ll all be there to meet the security chief.”
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“Good.” She nodded. “We need to impress.” “Like we won’t,” he goaded. “We’ve got it covered Emma, stop fretting.” “I am not fretting, Jordan. I’m just pedantic.” He grinned and laughed. “Understatement of the year.”
***** Lenny tossed in the semi-dark. His legs were tangled in the sheets, the pillows strewn across the floor and his heart thumped wildly at the vision of Emma in his mind. His eyes popped open. Glancing at the clock, he groaned. He’d been in bed all of an hour and he couldn’t get her out of his head. Betty Boop had nothing on his Emma, those curves dangerous and inviting at the same time. In his vision, he could see his hands scoop down those naked slopes. He could practically feel her smooth skin under his rough hands, see her quiver at his touch. A smile played on his lips at the thought of indulging in her beauty in private. She’d never know a thing and he wasn’t breaking any rules. Allowing his muscles to relax, he closed his eyes and summoned an image of her lying naked on red satin sheets. The creamy white of her skin contrasted perfectly with the linen and he imagined standing at the foot of the bed, staring down at her. It had been too long since he’d really paid attention to a woman. The casual encounters were enough to slake his male urges but none engaged his heart. He liked it that way but in his fantasy with Emma, he couldn’t keep the emotions locked away. Seeing her lying naked and beckoning him with that come-hither look in her eyes, the heat of passion grew intense. Reaching for her slender foot, he kissed the arch and smiled at the tinkle of her laughter. The sound soon turned needy as he kissed and nipped his way along her calf and thigh. Closing in on her pussy, he let impatience get the better of him and licked her wet heat. Though imagined, the sweet taste of her surged through his veins and pooled in his cock. It throbbed with need and ached for attention. Rarely did he have to take care of his own sexual hunger but on this occasion, Lenny didn’t mind. It took no effort to replace his hand with her mouth in the dream and the vision of her ruby red lips wrapped around him, her eyes focused on his and her tongue stroking the sensitive underside of his cock helped him spiral out of control. A dozen images hit him, one after another but the one that made his heart skip a beat was of her beneath him, her legs wrapped around his hips and her face in the grip of ecstasy. He came hard, her name slipping between his lips as warm liquid ran down his hand. His mind froze. He opened his eyes and stared up at the ceiling. What the hell am I doing? It was absurd to imagine Emma as a sexy goddess. She’d always been like a sister to him, innocent and sweet and full of goodness. She’d listened when he spilled his guts, consoled him when he was upset, encouraged him when he wasn’t sure.
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So what had changed? Why was he suddenly dreaming about stripping her naked and sliding his cock into her? Why did he want to ravish her body and make hot, passionate love to her? Lenny huffed and sat up, dumbfounded by the thoughts running through his mind. He scratched his scalp but the action only brought back the sensation of massaging Emma’s warmth. Heat flashed through him at the thought of burying both his hands in those short spikes. Things shouldn’t have changed, they still had the same boss and yet, he was consumed by scorching desires. The lust still zooming through his body left him breathless and restless. Part of him was shamed by his fantasy. Masturbating with images of a coworker in his head wasn’t his thing and he could never let her find out about it. To his surprise, a much bigger part of him sensed a change going on deep inside him. With zero chance of actual sleep, he kicked off the sheets and walked over to the window. Pulling the curtains apart, he tried to push thoughts of Emma out of his mind. For a moment, it worked. He battled with the sunlight streaking through the big glass windows, but the minute his eyes adjusted, his memories of the sweet young girl he’d met all those years ago came flooding back. It never crossed his mind to look at Emma in that way. It was drummed into him from an early age that a man never mixed his personal and professional lives. He kept that distinction throughout his career, making sure he never slept with any female cops. Sure there were rumors, but Lenny held his head high knowing they were nothing more than rumors. Anyone who really knew him knew not to believe the rubbish. Once he got to know her, it had been easy to keep things professional. She was a breath of sunshine in his otherwise chaotic life, a friend in whom he could confide, a partner on whom he could rely. Even if he had considered sleeping with her, the purity in Emma would have prevented it. She was too special, much too beautiful a person. He must’ve known it back then and hadn’t wanted to ruin it. His personal life stayed firmly separated from his career. He was an active guy, with normal, healthy urges and he acted on them. Young and free, he eagerly enjoyed the attentions of the fairer sex. Regularly too. He wondered if she knew that. Then again, how could she not? He always made a big show of winning over the big busty blonde heroines and never hid his conquests. It was a bravado thing, something the boys at the station expected from him. As he stared out over the sun-drenched city, it occurred to Lenny that Emma witnessed all of it. Perhaps it was her well-mannered upbringing that prevented her from saying anything, but she’d seen it all right. He wondered what she thought of it, what she thought of him and what she’d think now, knowing he’d given in to the fantasy.
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The club looked exactly the same as the one in Melbourne. If Emma hadn’t nudged him, he would have thought he’d just walked into the Air Lounge at home. Everything was precision perfect, including the catwalks above the dance floor. Lenny tilted his head back and gazed upward, blinked and then let out a soft whistle. “Did you guys steal the floor plans or something?” He turned to Emma to find her intense gaze on him. She pulled a face. “Uh, the boss gave them to me quite willingly. He wanted it to be the same.” Lenny grinned. “The same?” Arching an eyebrow, he almost laughed. “Identical is a better word.” Shrugging, Emma walked onto the dance floor and twirled for him. Her long stylish skirt billowed out around her feet, dragging his gaze down to the gorgeous shape of her legs. The glimpse of those creamy legs made his heart lurch, reminding him of the vivid fantasy from this morning. “Wow.” He swallowed, covering his reaction by pointing at the bar. He couldn’t get over how identical it all was. “You’ve even got VB.” Emma laughed and skipped over to the long redwood bar. Molding her hand to the tap, she fingered the chrome sensually and nodded. The movement of her hand sent shivers down his spine, though the look in her eye was one of absolute delight. “Oh yeah. It’s the only beer I would ever allow in here. Victoria Bitter,” she hummed, “just the thing after a hard day’s work.” He smiled as she paraphrased the old slogan for the Australian brewed beer. Unlike most of the women he’d been with, Emma was a beer drinker. She knew how to pull a glass without creating a frothy head and she understood the importance of beer at social events, like barbecues, weddings and football. “Do they even drink that stuff here?” he wondered aloud, strolling across the hardwood dance floor to stand by her side. “Yep,” she quipped. “And they like it. But it’s not easy to get and getting it on tap cost a small fortune. Rocket will probably have my hide.” Lenny shook his head, desperately resisting the urge to take a good look at that hide of hers. “Nah, he’s a VB man himself.” Beside him, Emma chuckled. “How did you ever hook up with him?” “Long story.” He sighed. “Very, very long story.” He felt her gaze on him but rather than return her stare, he skimmed over the bottles lining the shelves behind the bar. It really was just like home, he thought, only with one small difference. Emma. Lenny still wasn’t quite sure how she’d gone from being his sister-like partner to the sex pistol beside him. He sensed that asking her thoughts on the matter would
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unleash a can of worms. The one drawback was the awkward air seeming to hang between them. Long ago, they’d been able to open up about almost anything. Now he sensed that talking honestly could lead him down a path he wouldn’t be able to turn back from. Getting to know this woman again would severely challenge his need to keep work and home separate. “Lenny?” He jumped when she touched his arm but she didn’t withdraw the contact. Rather, she let it sizzle and burn right through the thin cotton of his shirt and slip into his bloodstream. Just being close to her stimulated his imagination to play tricks on his mind. The contact was almost too much to bear and yet, the thought of it not being there left him feeling strangely alone. “Sorry.” He chuckled, the sound stuffy and insincere. He didn’t dare look into her eyes. “Still a little jet-lagged, I guess.” Her thumb rubbed across his biceps in a gentle soothing motion before she gripped him firmly and leaned close to his ear. “You need to get some rest,” she whispered, her voice husky and sultry. “You’ve got a busy two weeks ahead.” He expected her to pull back but she remained pressed against his side, his upper arm pinned between her delectably rounded breasts, her belly pressed against the back of his hand. The words she used erupted in his head, causing his mind to spiral out of control. What did she mean by busy? Before he could think of an answer, he felt her take a slow, deep breath. Her rib cage expanded against him, one hardened nipple like a bullet against his chest. A tremor passed through her belly, vibrating against the back of his hand. Lord but she was turned on. His eyes drifted shut. So was he. “Emma,” he whispered in warning. “Yes?” Her hot breath fanned his cheek, testing his resolve to keep things cool. “Don’t we have a meeting or something?” “Mmm-hmm,” she hummed, the deep throaty sound shooting straight to his groin. Lenny leaned against the bar, his knees a little wobbly. He’d never heard such a scrumptious sound. It was so much better than what he’d imagined and he wondered how it would feel against his naked chest. “My crew will be arriving shortly.” He smiled. Her crew. She said the words with such confidence, as if she’d been doing this all her life. “Are they all ex-PIs too?” “Are yours all ex-cops?” Finally, the tension between them eased as they both chuckled. “You’ve got me there.”
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“Listen,” she said, the pressure of her heated body against his lessening. Lenny wanted to grab her and pull her hard against him, let her know what she did to him. “I don’t understand why things are so uneasy between us. I thought we were starting over.” He nodded, working up the courage to face her. “I feel it too, Em.” “What about dinner tonight? We can talk things through some more.” Turning his head, he met the gaze of her soft blue eyes. Her plump lips were turned up in a serene smile, her cheeks flushed. But it was those eyes that held his attention, with large black pupils and intense blue irises. In the silence, her gaze searched his. He still didn’t know what she expected to find. “Dinner.” He nodded. “Yes.” For the life of him, he couldn’t remember how it felt to be around her all those years ago. It was like she’d never really had a presence, or maybe he’d just never noticed. That was probably more like it, he thought ruefully. Seeing her through big-brother-colored glasses blinded him to her physical beauty and to the flaming attraction now possessing him. Behind them, voices filled the club and when he turned to see who it was Emma stepped away. Feeling the loss of her body heat, Lenny could only watch as she swaggered across the dance floor to greet the group of men and women joining them. Surveying the group, Lenny saw them smile and greet Emma with respect he knew she’d earned. One of the men, tall with curly brown hair and big, wide shoulders immediately turned his attention to Lenny. There was a sense of caution in his eyes, though Lenny didn’t miss the way he’d looked at Emma. Was he the boyfriend she mentioned or an ex? A stab of trepidation hit him in the guts. How did she justify working with her current squeeze? Or an ex for that matter? It didn’t seem right to Lenny but then, he never parted amicably from women. When they wanted more than he could give—and he invariably disappointed—they often left after screaming and shouting at him. He couldn’t imagine working with one of them. “Mr. Banks?” Lenny snapped to attention and took the outstretched hand. “Please, it’s Lenny.” “I’m Jordan Knight. Emma and I have worked together for a few years, so I’ve heard a bit about you.” Curious, Lenny couldn’t help himself. “All good I hope?” Jordan didn’t smile. Strange, Lenny thought. Emma didn’t strike him as the kind who would dish the dirt but then, he’d hurt her, hadn’t he? He knew that now and wouldn’t be surprised if she’d opened up to the hunk of man before him. Maybe some of their pillow talk had turned to Lenny’s philandering ways. “Yes.” Jordan nodded. “All good. I’m looking forward to working with you.” Somehow, Lenny didn’t exactly believe the younger man. “Good.” He nodded, turning to Emma who’d led the rest of the small group over to him.
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Her eyes darted from him to Jordan and back again, and he sensed she didn’t like what she was seeing. “Lenny, this is my crew. You’ve obviously met Jordan,” she inclined her head toward the man in question, “he’s my video surveillance expert. It’s his system you’ll get to take a good look at later.” “Excellent.” “And this,” she set her hand on the shoulder of a short Hispanic man, “is Tommy Fernandez. He’s the only ex-cop of the group. He’s my eyes and ears on the street. Anything I need to know, he’s the one to tell me.” Lenny shook Tommy’s hand. “Nice to meet you.” Tommy frowned. “Don’t I get to be called mate?” A ripple of laughter rolled through the group. Lenny only smiled. “We don’t all speak like that. I don’t think I’ve used the word since I was a kid.” Tommy held up a hand. “Say no more, friend. Stereotypes aren’t my idea of a holiday either.” “So.” Lenny eyed the two tall, blonde women. “Who do we have here?” “These are my ball-breakers,” Emma drawled, staring at him pointedly. “They’re going to make sure that the dance floor runs nice and smooth. Right, girls?” “That’s right, Em. I’m Tandi.” She extended her hand to him. “Anyone gets a little too frisky or too touchy-feely, they’re outta here.” Lenny greeted them both, wondering what kind of woman signed on for this kind of work. Only Emma could come up with such a job description, he thought fondly. As he scanned the group, he counted five members. She needed a bigger crew, for when she couldn’t be here in person. “Yeah, yeah. I know. Only five. Unfortunately we have two missing.” She shot Jordan a look. “Apparently they didn’t get the memo. We hired one new recruit today.” Lenny chuckled. “You seem to have it all under control, that’s good to see. I take it your other two will oversee the floor personnel?” he quizzed, throwing a harmless but important question at her. She nodded. “Exactly. Roland McGee will be in charge of crowd control staff while his wife, Maggie, will take care of the bar staff. I’ve got it covered, Lenny.” So it seemed. He ran through a mental checklist and tried to find a flaw in Emma’s handlings of security but found nothing glaringly obvious. Impressed, he met the gaze of each member of her crew. The only unfriendly eyes he came across belonged to none other than Jordan but Lenny let it slide—for now. Turning his gaze to Emma, he read the pride in her eyes and smiled in response. She grinned back, the warmth in her expression filling his heart. Maybe they could find a way through this rough patch and rekindle their friendship again. “Want to see the control room?” she quipped, reaching for his hand and tugging him out of the small gathering. “What about—?” 24
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She shook her head, slowing for him. “They only came in to meet with you. Tomorrow, we’ll get stuck into logistics. Right now I want to show off all the new gizmos upstairs.”
***** Leading him up the stairs, Emma tried to control her rampaging heart. She needed some time alone with him, even if it was just to talk shop and iron out the crinkles between them. On the second floor, she hurried him into the large control room with its banks of monitors and state of the art surveillance equipment. Face recognition technology was their latest acquisition, though Jordan had fought her on it. He didn’t see why they’d need it but Emma was adamant, arguing that if the club fell prey to sexual predators and became a hunting ground, the technology would be invaluable. She suspected he’d acquiesced only to shut her up. “Wow.” Lenny sighed. “This is impressive. Everything is a perfect replica. Even that,” he pointed to the wall of monitors, “is exactly the same as in Melbourne.” “This place is seriously wired,” she explained, flicking the master switch and bringing the room to life. “There are cameras in every conceivable and legal position.” Lenny stepped toward the panel of switches and buttons controlling everything from camera angle to zoom modes. “This had to cost a bit.” “It’s worth it,” she argued defensively, swinging the door shut. “I’m not new to this Lenny. I know what I’m doing.” He turned, his face a mixture of admiration and concern. “That’s what I’m afraid of. How did you get into this line of work in the first place, Em?” Hitching a hip on the counter, Emma shrugged. “Long story.” She winked, echoing the words he’d used earlier and trying to keep the serious expression in his eyes calm. “Very, very long story.” Lenny stepped closer, his hip brushing against hers. His cologne filled her senses and ignited her memories. All these years and he hadn’t changed it. “Em, is there something I should know?” Dropping her gaze, she shook her head. Lenny wasn’t having any of it. Hooking two fingers under her jaw, he brought her head up and her eyes to his. “Em?” She swallowed. “When I landed in LA, the PI firm already had a job lined up. They were working with the police to find a serial rapist who used nightclubs to scout for girls. I spent a lot of time in seedy, smoky places doing recon work.” Fear flashed through his dark eyes and his nostrils flared. Emma shook her head. “Don’t think like that. I didn’t even get close. But I got to know the ins and outs of club security. Rocket seemed impressed by that.” “How do you know what I’m thinking?” He growled, his face inching closer to hers. 25
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“It’s written all over your face, Lenny. I wasn’t used as bait, I was chosen because I had a good track record.” “So you didn’t happen to look like the victims?” Damn. Clearly two could play the mind reading game. “A little.” A lot. She reached up and touched one of her short spikes self-consciously before dropping her hand. “Damn it, Emma, you could’ve gotten really hurt.” The corner of her mouth twitched upward as his palm splayed over her cheek, his thumb stroking her skin. “You do remember I’m a black belt, right?” He huffed and shook his head. She wondered just how close he was going to get. Her plan was to seduce him, not the other way around. “Doesn’t help when you’re hands and feet are bound.” Emma blinked. Why was he so stuck on this? “You need to drop it, Lenny,” she said with all the compassion she could muster. She touched his elbow to reassure him. It didn’t have the desired effect. Rather than settling him, she seemed to have spurred him into action. Grabbing her shoulders, he pulled her to him and circled his arms around her tight. “I don’t get it.” He sounded confused and angry. “You left the protection of the force to work for ingrates who would use you like that? You’re too smart for that, Em.” “I can look after myself,” she reminded him. “You taught me that.” He jerked backward. “How? When?” She frowned. “It was the first thing you taught me, don’t you remember? You were the one who grilled me over and over about how to keep myself safe. You were the one who insisted that I continue my karate training.” Staring at him, she could see it was slowly coming back to him. It didn’t explain why now, after all these years, her recount of the story had such a strong affect on him. He sounded overprotective, worried she’d slip up and get into trouble. She wanted to scream that he should’ve been just as concerned for her after he’d left the force. She’d been so vulnerable back then. He was in hospital because she’d been unable to protect him. The rookie who hadn’t been able to keep up and let her partner take the fall. That was why she’d left the force. Everyone had looked at her with accusing eyes, fuelling her guilt and leaving her afraid that whoever they next assigned to be her partner, wouldn’t trust her. “Emma?” She shook her head and rearranged her features into a smile. “What were you thinking about just then?” he demanded, his voice low and frustrated. “Nothing.”
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“Liar.” Breaking free of his hands, she stepped away to put some fresh air between them. “It doesn’t matter.” He smiled wryly. “Liar.” “Stop it.” “Tell me.” She growled gruffly and blew out a long breath. “I’m just a little confused about the way you’re acting. It’s like you’re suddenly worried that I’m going to get hurt, that I was at greater risk as a PI than a cop.” “We’re still friends,” he explained. “I never stopped caring about you.” As a friend. Yeah, she could read between the lines but she had wanted so much more. If she was honest, then she had to admit she still wanted more. Only this time she was going to get what she wanted and teach him a lesson in the process. “When you say you cared about me, you mean as a friend. You saw me only as a replacement for your sister. You never saw the real me, Lenny.” He nodded, which almost made her knees buckle. “That’s true. But we had a job to do. We worked together, Emma. You know how I felt about that kind of thing.” She grimaced. “You mean, the way you still feel about fraternizing with your coworkers.” “What are you saying?” “I’m saying take a good look at me, Lenny. See me for who I really am.” “And?” She sighed, feeling like she was getting nowhere. “And then look me in the eye and tell me you don’t find me attractive. Tell me you couldn’t imagine something more between us.” He gulped, his Adam’s apple bobbing wildly and she had to suppress the urge to press her tongue against it. She thought he’d be able to hide it better, that he’d play the game and force her to chase him. He was making this too easy, she thought, wondering if that wasn’t his strategy. “Emma, don’t do this.” “Don’t do what?” He shook his head and turned away. “I don’t want to hurt you.” “Too late for that, sonny, you did that a long time ago but I’m over it. I’m a grown woman. Tell me the truth. Do you find me sexy or not?” Slow, silent, agonizing seconds ticked by. The only sound she could hear was her rapid breathing—quick, shallow breaths of anticipation that sent tingles scooting along her skin. Heat flashed through her body. What would she do if he said yes and kissed her? Lord but she’d melt into a puddle at his feet. Either that or she’d take him on the desk.
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But if he said no, said he still saw her in the same mold as a sister, she didn’t know what she’d do. Her plan hinged on years of separation driving some sense and objectivity into his thick skull. And she’d thought it worked, feeling him hard for her at the airport this morning and seeing the flare of desire in his eyes. If he could look her square in the eye and honestly deny any real attraction, her hopes were dashed. As if in slow motion, Lenny began to turn around. She watched his narrow hips swivel, his shoulders twist and glimpsed his profile seconds before his eyes met hers. Searing heat engulfed met her, made her quiver, and the pure sexual hunger that leapt across the distance set her pussy on fire. A thumping need settled between her legs while every erogenous zone cried out for his touch. He saw it too and took one step toward her before the door swung inward and Jordan swept into the room. Oblivious to both Emma and Lenny, he breezed through the gap between them to the switch board. He was humming a tune, for crying out loud. Emma sucked in a deep breath and closed her eyes. The moment was gone. Lenny reined in the surge of passion threatening to overpower them both. Not a moment too soon as Jordan turned to him with an expectant expression. “What do you think of my system?” “It’s, ah—” Lenny cleared his throat. “Great. You’ve done a fantastic job.” Jordan looked from Lenny to Emma and then back again, his expression one of understanding. Lenny swallowed. If Jordan hadn’t interrupted, Emma would have gotten exactly what she seemed to want. Glancing at her, he saw she still hadn’t opened her eyes and he was glad for the reprieve. She knew how to hit him hard, knew exactly which buttons to push. Hell yes she was sexy, the sexiest woman he’d ever seen. And he wanted her like he’d never wanted a woman before. Couldn’t she see that in his eyes? Or was that why she’d forced the issue? She never could leave well enough alone. “Excuse me,” he said before leaving the room and taking refuge on the catwalk. What was wrong with him? Emma was off limits for so many reasons, not least of which was Jordan. Were they together? Or ex-lovers? Neither situation bode well for him and reminded him that peeling off her clothes, taking her to bed and having his wicked ways with her were out of the question. Out of the question, Lenny. Totally. Completely. It didn’t matter what she wanted, or how badly she wanted it. He did not sleep with his colleagues. Or the wives or girlfriends of his coworkers, for that matter. The rule had served him well. He had no enemies on that score and he would do well to stick to the rule right now. Closing his eyes, he gripped the railing and wished Rocket was standing beside him. The boss man could give him some much needed advice, though the thought of Lenny needing advice about a woman was laughable. After all, Rocket could count his sexual conquests on one hand. But what he lacked in experience, he more than made up for in heart and sensitivity. 28
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“Hey.” Emma sidled up beside him, standing so close he could smell her scent. “I’m sorry.” He shook his head, opening his eyes. “No, I’m sorry.” Her hands gripped the railing, her pinkie touching his. “What’s wrong with us?” He chuffed. “I don’t know, Em. But I know I was wrong about you.” She frowned. “Say again?” “You would’ve made one hell of a cop, lady. It’s not too late, you know.” When she shrugged, her shoulder moved against his arm. Somehow, the touch seemed right amidst the chaos of emotions churning in his belly. How had she slipped under his radar? Why had he wanted to shuck his ethics and morals the minute he laid eyes on her? “Nah, my life is here, Lenny.” He shook his head. “You belong in Melbourne and I think you know it. I think it became obvious when you and Jordan split.” Her head spun around. “How did you know about that?” Damn, he’d guessed right. “I can see it in his eyes, Em. He’s not over you.” She blinked, the whites of her eyes reddening. “It’s not an issue. We don’t fit the way he wants us to.” Staring at her pretty face, the urge to touch her smooth skin and hold her against him surged through him. But fear stopped him. When he’d pressed his palm to her cheek before, the electricity left him wanting so much more. He couldn’t have it. Not with Emma. Even if she was available to him. “Maybe we shouldn’t go to dinner,” he suggested. “Why?” He shrugged. How did he explain that spending time with her made him want to ditch everything he’d been taught and get naked with her? “I hate this ugliness between us,” she said, her voice sad. “We used to be close.” “We still can be.” “Just as friends, right?” What was she getting at? Did she want to have sex? “Emma, I don’t want to ruin our friendship.” Something snapped. “Screw the friendship, Lenny. Have an affair with me. Who says it has to ruin anything? Sex, that’s all.” The contact her pinkie made with his bloomed, turned into a red-hot inferno. It streaked up the length of his arm and exploded when it hit his chest. Lenny sucked in a deep breath. Severing the physical contact was the only move to make. So why didn’t he do it?
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Lenny needed to loosen his collar under her scrutinizing glare. He couldn’t believe his sweet, innocent Emma was challenging him to have sex with her. He’d never even wanted to believe she’d lost her virginity, preferring to keep her in his mind as a pure, unspoiled child. Yet here she was, vixen to the bone and daring him to take her to bed. He watched as she turned to face him, her hands on her hips while she waited for an answer. Knowing it was wrong, he let his gaze wander hungrily over her body and imagined what it would be like to touch her, taste her, make love to her in the flesh. Sure, he’d had her in a fantasy but would reality simply match it or blow it out of the sky? Oh Lord, Lenny pleaded, why? Was she testing him to see if he could discard a friendship in favor of carnal delights? Was he supposed to say yes or no? He didn’t know, suddenly feeling like he was a skinny, uncoordinated teenage kid being teased by the experienced older woman. Awkward silence engulfed them. And then right before his eyes, her entire body language changed to light and airy. “Lenny,” she teased, “I’m kidding.” Relief washed over him as he swallowed and smiled. “God, Emma, you had me going there.” She slapped his arm and shook her head at him. “You dope. You know I value your friendship, even if you never returned my calls.” “Don’t do that.” He sighed and held his hand on his chest. “You scared the hell out of me.” She gave a careless shrug and turned. As she sauntered away, he watched her hips swish seductively from side to side. Those round delights demanded he follow and damn if he didn’t. He heard her chuckle before she glanced back over her shoulder and called, “Your loss, babe.”
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Chapter Three The rest of the afternoon dragged by at super slow speed, leaving Emma ready to scream. As she showed Lenny the intricate details of the club’s security system, he seemed relieved to have something else to focus on. She didn’t miss the surreptitious glances he slipped her way when he thought she wasn’t looking. At least she’d won his attention but she was greedy and wanted more. Exposing her plan this early in the game hadn’t been on the agenda but his reaction was priceless. He actually thought about it. And if she wanted to get picky, then he really hadn’t turned down the offer. Despite the agonizing wait, she kept the atmosphere between them professional until the others gradually left the club. Jordan was the last to leave, clearly reluctant to let Emma have Lenny alone. She couldn’t help but wonder who he worried about more, her or Lenny. She ended up having to shoo him away and when she and Lenny were the only two remaining, Emma locked the club. Still in the control room, she filled the chair beside Lenny, propped her elbows on the desk and sighed. “Are you hungry yet?” He nodded. Leaning back, he rubbed his belly. “Famished. Are we still on for dinner?” “You bet. I know this great pub near my place. What do you say?” “Sounds good. About earlier, Em. I think I should apologize.” “What for?” His face contorted as he considered his words. “I got carried away.” Chuckling, she leaned back to be level with him and rested her hand on his thigh. “So how do you explain my behavior?” He grinned and leaned forward. “I meant what I said. I don’t want to hurt you.” Inching forward, Emma nodded slowly. Was he going to accept her challenge? The hairs on her arms tingled. “We’re consenting adults, Lenny.” “I know.” He took a deep breath, his face just inches from hers. “But—” Emma pressed her fingertips to his lips and almost started at the heat. “If you give me the line about us being coworkers, I will smack you upside the head.” His mouth curved into a smile under her fingers. With her attention captured by those plump lips, she didn’t see his hand rise to her neck. The warmth that cupped the exposed curve felt wonderful and fuelled the erotic thoughts in her head.
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“I know you’ve never considered me that way before,” she pushed on, determined to stretch his boundaries until either they snapped or he started pushing back. “But I know you well enough to see what’s in your eyes.” He swallowed and nodded. “You aren’t quite the way I remembered you, Em. You’re all womanly, with delicious curves and a sense of adventure that’s going to kill me.” She sighed. “I hear a ‘but’ in there.” His thumb stroked her earlobe and caused the muscles in her belly to squeeze tight. “I’ll admit, you’ve become one helluva sexy woman, Emma, but I respect you too much to use you.” “If I said all I wanted was a physical fling, would that make a difference?” His head jerked back. “Emma?” She smiled. “You don’t think I can do that? You think I’d want more, right?” Confusion flooded his eyes. “Isn’t that what all women want in the end?” “Some women,” she corrected, her hand finding his thigh again and giving a suggestive squeeze. “Not me.” “That doesn’t solve the other issue.” Growling softly, Emma shook her head. “Get over it. In two weeks, you’ll go home and I’ll stay here. If we’re both clear about what we want, why can’t we just have it?” “It’s not that simple, Em.” “No? I want you, Lenny. A short-term affair. I know what you’re like. I know you won’t stick around and that’s okay with me.” He shook his head and chuffed softly, that smile finding its way back to his lips. “I never thought you’d want that.” Emma smiled. “Well, since we’re laying cards on the table, tell me. What do you want, Lenny?”
***** Despite the pub’s comfortable and homey atmosphere, Lenny couldn’t take his eyes off Emma. She seemed to glow brighter than the ambient lighting and the mischievous twinkle in her eye reminded him he hadn’t answered her question. What did he want? It was obvious she couldn’t care less about some of the rules he lived by. He wasn’t sure if that excited or scared him because it was so unlike the Emma of old. Then again, maybe it was the Emma of old and it was he who’d changed. The raw sexuality that clung to her was impossible to ignore but he was struggling with her proposition. It was just sex, she said, like all the other meaningless sexual encounters he’d had in the past and was known for. But while he could imagine
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pleasuring her every curve, he couldn’t imagine it meaning nothing. Just like in his fantasy. That did scare him. Emma was one of a kind. He would never forgive himself if he left her broken hearted when he left for Australia. He didn’t want to believe she could dive into a sexual affair and come out unscathed. She was a woman, the kind he thought perfect for making some lucky guy happy in marriage. How could she even suggest it? He wondered if the split between Jordan and Emma had any influence. Did she need a rebound lover? Because he could actually do that. It posed less of a risk to him that she’d eventually want more, but they were friends and he didn’t provide those services to friends. “Stop worrying about it, Lenny,” she chided in a gentle tone. Her voice brought him back to the table and the burger he was yet to touch. “Now eat.” “How can you possibly know what I’m thinking?” Chuckling, she filled her mouth with salad greens and grinned while she chewed. Finally, she said, “You are an open book. You always have been. At least to me.” That was such a far cry from the perceptions of all the other women he’d been with that he almost laughed. “You are the only one who can read me so well, Em. Well, except for Robyn.” “I still can’t believe she’s married to Rocket. She’s one lucky girl.” “I think it’s the other way around, actually.” He smiled, losing himself in the memory of his little sister dolled up for her wedding. “I don’t say that because she’s my sister, either. I mean, she’s really grown up. She’s amazing.” Emma smiled and reached across the table to touch his hand. “I’m glad the rift between you has been healed.” He nodded. Having Robyn back in his life was like a miracle come true. “Me too.” “So,” her hand slipped away and he had to stop himself from grabbing it. “What do you think of my pub?” He laughed. “Your pub? Somehow I think the owners might have something to say about that.” Glancing around at the décor of the Manhattan Beach Brewing Co, Lenny nodded his approval. It was busy tonight, with waitstaff bustling about zealously and customers enjoying themselves. She hadn’t shown him Manhattan Beach because the sun had gone down but she promised a tour in a day or two. He noted the staff called her by name and before they were seated, a number of locals waved enthusiastically at her. When she said this was her home, he hadn’t believed her. Now he knew different. “It’s nice and very you.”
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“Except they don’t have VB.” She scrunched up her face playfully and laughed. “The beers here are strange and varied and I’m yet to find one as good as VB, but that’s okay. It’s a whole lot of fun trying.” “And you live close by?” She nodded, loading her fork up again. “Over on Eighth Street. It’s a nice walk down to the beach from there.” “Down the hill?” “Yeah. Then straight up it to come home again. Lots of fun when you’re carrying a surfboard.” He smiled, remembering she was a surfer chick. He could almost visualize her hanging ten on the waves with the men ogling her generous curves. Hell, he’d be one of those guys. “You’ll have to take me out while I’m here,” he suggested. “I haven’t surfed in a while.” Her expression darkened. “It won’t be a danger to your health or anything?” Lenny reached for her hand this time. Smoothing his fingertips over her silken skin, he held her gaze and shook his head. It touched him that she worried about his wounds but it had been four years. He was better now. “I’m fine, Em, really.” “I just…” Her voice trailed off as her eyes grew sad. “I’m sorry.” He winked, squeezing her fingers in what he hoped was a comforting gesture. “Don’t be, it’s been long enough. I’ve healed and I’m strong again. Granted I haven’t been surfing since, but,” he shrugged, “I’ve done more physical things than surfing over the last four years.” He heard the innuendo in his comment and cringed. Emma chuckled, her fingers tangling with his for a brief moment. Lenny knew he wasn’t the best people-reader but he sensed the burden she carried over his injuries. Of course if it hadn’t been for her, he never would have survived. Deciding to drop the topic, he returned to his burger, keeping one hand in firm contact with Emma while he ate. “Then I’d be happy to take you surfing, Lenny. The best waves are in the morning. So it’ll be an early start.” He nodded. “Give it a couple days, eh? This jet lag is wearing me down.” She chuckled softly, her gaze drifting down to their connected hands before fluttering back up to his. “Would you like me to take you back to the hotel?” Hell no. Fatigue be damned, he hadn’t seen Emma in four years. He didn’t want to go to bed just yet. “No,” he returned, keeping his voice calm. “I’m enjoying our dinner.” She smiled warmly, her eyes soft and inviting. “Me too.”
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Her hand slipped away as they continued their meal in comfortable silence. While they ate, an older man and woman approached their booth, smiling and nodding toward Emma. When she saw them, the grin on her face grew impossibly wide. Her fork fell to the table as she stood and embraced each one. “Hello, Emma.” The gentleman gave Lenny a quick but thorough glance. “We haven’t seen you lately. How are you?” She smiled and touched his arm. “I’ve been busy with work but things will slow down soon enough and I’ll get back to making rounds. You look well, Victor.” She turned toward the older woman. “Elsie, you’re just glowing. Things must be going well then?” The older couple, who Lenny suspected were married and had been for a very long time, grinned at each other. “We are fabulous,” the woman said before turning to Lenny. Emma seemed to remember he was there and quickly introduced them. “I volunteer to do various odd jobs,” she informed him. “For people who’ve got better things to do with their time.” She slid a wink at the older couple and the three of them burst out laughing. Victor and Elsie bid them farewell, leaving Emma to return to her seat. She pretty much radiated joy when she laid her eyes on him and he couldn’t help but feel some of it slip into his veins. It was intoxicating. Emma was intoxicating. Her enthusiasm for everything life had to offer seemed endless. “What?” He chuckled. “If I didn’t know you better, I’d swear they were your grandparents.” Emma laughed heartily. “As good as.” It occurred to him to ask about her family back in Australia, but he didn’t want to derail her glow. He’d only ever met her younger sister, Jessica, a fiery little number who loved to tease and was an outrageous flirt. If his memory was correct, Jess didn’t have the same curves or the same innocence as Emma. He remembered thinking she was one to watch, someone who’d nab herself an unsuspecting man easily. “What sort of jobs do you do for them?” “Why?” she asked shyly. Feeling as though he’d struck a nerve, Lenny backed off and shrugged. “Just curious.” “Oh.” Emma picked up her fork. “Gardening mostly, vacuuming. Sometimes I volunteer for Meals on Wheels, though Victor and Elsie don’t need that.” “You’re really a part of this community, aren’t you?” “Yeah. I needed to belong. Downtown was so impersonal. When I moved here, I made a point of contributing.” “Miss your family?”
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His question hung in the air as she avoided his eyes and continued with her meal. Lenny couldn’t help but wonder if things were well between Emma and her folks back home. After all, she’d left all of a sudden. He didn’t think she’d been back either, though he had no way of knowing for sure. “Yes.” Her voice was so soft he almost missed the pained note in it. Something wasn’t right but he chose not to pursue it. If she wanted to tell him, she would. He decided a change of subject was in order. “So tell me, what’s the nightclub scene like near the Air Lounge? How does our competition shape up?” Emma perked up. “There are a couple of clubs nearby, but we’ve put together a massive marketing campaign. Our proximity to the airport gives us the edge.” He smiled. “I see you’ve done your homework.” “Like I wouldn’t,” she goaded. He liked it when she smiled but he liked it even more when the emotion reached her eyes. He couldn’t tear his gaze away from those sparkling blue orbs. “Do you want to check them out for yourself?” Lenny chuckled at her underhanded suggestion he didn’t trust her judgment. That wasn’t it at all. “Maybe tomorrow night,” he offered. “I really need to get some sleep.” The sly giggle he heard made him wonder if she knew she’d kept him awake this morning. He wouldn’t put it past her, she seemed to know everything going on in his head. “You just let me know when you’re ready, okay?” The brazen cheekiness she displayed urged him to do something crazy. Damn he still wanted to give in to spontaneity but something told him he needed to look out for the both of them. “Ready for what, exactly?” The question was designed to provoke a response and he wasn’t disappointed. He was treated to flared nostrils, dilated pupils and a sharp intake of breath. Clearly the thought of dancing with him fuelled the fire already burning for him. It couldn’t hurt to dance with her, could it? Dancing was something he did often at the club back home, he had no trouble keeping things cool between himself and a woman on the dance floor. “Work,” she responded. He noticed her breathing was shallow and rapid, triggering a response in his groin. “Maybe you’ll notice something we didn’t.” “We?” “Jordan and I,” she informed him casually. The mention of her ex’s name didn’t seem to bother her, so why did it wreak such havoc with his instinct to protect? “We’ve done our research, Lenny, don’t worry. But I’d be more than happy to show you. In fact,” she glanced at the watch on her slender wrist. “We could head back now.” “There’s no rush, Em.”
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“It’s on our way, so we can drop into a club for a quick look before I take you back to your room. It won’t take long and I promise I’ll have you back at the hotel before midnight. What do you say?” And pass up the chance to dance with her? Not on his life.
***** Emma pushed through the crowd, her blood pumping and adrenaline filling her body. The loud music only served to heighten her awareness of Lenny, as she led him by the hand to the dance floor. They’d already done the once-over of the place, checking out security, crowd controllers, surveillance points and so on. Lenny hadn’t been able to point out anything more than what she’d found so far. Now that business was over, she wanted to kick up her heels and have a little fun. And if Lenny wanted to dance, then that’s what they’d do. Turning in the middle of the crowd, she found him right behind her. Caught off guard, he slammed straight into her. The collision set her nerve endings on fire. In response to the sudden contact, Emma flung her arms around his neck and waited for him to stabilize. His hands on her hips felt so good, so right that she gave a little shimmy to show her appreciation. His eyes flared as he pressed against her and began to move in time with the music. She followed his lead, sliding her hips across his and drawing a delicious grin from his full lips. Tugged closer by his hands, she couldn’t miss his arousal or the fire in his eyes. Holding on tighter, she stretched up and plastered her breasts against his chest. While the music filled her ears, Lenny filled her vision. His masculine scent poured in with every breath, his heat soaked through the clothes between them. As his muscles rippled against her softer body, she shuddered at the way his hair swept against her bare arms. Threading her hands into his hair, she watched his eyelids drop at the contact and smiled victoriously when his head bent under her encouragement. He buried his face against her neck and breathed heavily against her skin. Fire licked at her insides, heating her to boiling point. Roving hands found the curve of her ass while she parted her legs for his urgent knee. Tangled in his arms and drowning in the pleasure his hands elicited, Emma tilted her head back and closed her eyes. In her mind’s eye, she could see them. Naked arms and legs touching, pleasuring, feeling, stroking. She could hear them, panting and grunting with each soul devouring sensation. They barely noticed when the song morphed into a new one, its beat quicker, its bass throbbing through them. Lenny’s hips ground against hers, his demanding thigh rubbing against her swollen needy lips. Her insides clenched with each sensual stroke and squeeze of her ass. When he gripped her harder and erotically separated the cheeks, Emma almost lost control.
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While her body vibrated under his capable touch, she lifted her head and pressed her lips against his ear to growl in approval. His tongue darted out and lapped her sensitized skin, licking her with a hot wetness. He still hadn’t accepted or declined her offer, and if she didn’t know him the way she did, she would have taken the impassioned groping as a yes. She wanted it so badly to be a yes that she almost believed it. If Lenny thought this erotic dance was in some way wrong or unethical, he didn’t act on it. Rather, his lips replaced his tongue as he trailed slow lingering kisses up her neck. He nibbled on her ear, effortlessly sending her pulse rate up another notch. Before she could stop herself, Emma heard his name slip between her lips in a gasp. She didn’t recognize the husky voice and wouldn’t have thought it her own had she not heard it. Much to her surprise, she heard her name growled in her ear as his thigh jerked upward and lifted her off the ground. Exultant spasms rocked through her womb, contracting so hard she cried against his ear. His hands circled her waist and held her steady. She half expected an apology but when he drew his head back, she was surprised by the satisfaction that owned his face. “Are you okay?” he grunted, sounding as if he was in the grip of ecstasy. Emma could only nod. He filled her vision, her every sense and if their behavior got them arrested, it would be worth every second of the orgasm still sending aftershocks through her. “We should go,” he suggested, tugging on her hip. Despite his idea, his thigh was still firmly planted between hers with his erection pressing against her belly. “What do you say?” “What about you?” she asked in reference to his arousal. Lenny only shook his head. “Not here,” he growled. Sliding off his thigh, she grabbed his hand and tugged him toward the exit. When the warm night air hit them, Emma finally caught her breath. He was close to breaking his own rule and she smiled at the power sluicing through her veins. “Em, slow down,” he called. She continued dragging him at fevered pace toward the car. “Em.” He brought her to a halt inches from the car, and when she turned around, it dawned on her how uncomfortable he was. “Sorry.” Lenny grimaced and resumed a slower pace. Glad that no one was around to see him like this, Emma walked slightly ahead of him to hide the bulge in his pants. Unlocking the car with the remote, she held the door open for him and waited until he was seated. “It’s a long ride,” she said softly, leaning against his side. She smiled when his hand cupped her chin. “Are you going to be okay?” He shook his head. “No.”
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“Can I do something to help?” Lenny swallowed. “Em, I—” He stopped. She stared hard at him, wondering what he’d say. Usually she could read him but his eyes were a swirling mixture of half a dozen emotions. If he told her he hadn’t meant for things to get so heated, she thought she just might strangle him. Rather than wait, she took control. “Tell me you didn’t mean that back there,” she demanded, hooking her thumb over her shoulder in the direction of the club. “Tell me you didn’t mean to do that to me.” He remained silent. Emma sighed. “Make a decision, Lenny. Yes or no. That’s all I’m asking.” “Give me some time,” he pleaded, his eyes boring into hers. “I don’t know what I want.” Emma huffed ungracefully and wrenched her face out of his grip. Lenny always knew what he wanted, so what was it about her or them that caused him so much confusion? “So why?” she demanded. “Why touch me like that? Why kiss me?” She leaned closer. “Why bring me to orgasm?” With a firm jaw, he frowned. “You make it sound sleazy, Emma. Don’t reduce it to something so…calculated.” She jerked backward in surprise. “Calculated?” He nodded. “Like I meant to take advantage of you in some way. I didn’t and you bloody well know it. It just happened.” “But you didn’t try to stop it,” she countered. “Neither did you.” She sighed. “I’ve already laid my cards on the table. I told you what I wanted. It’s you who hasn’t decided anything and if your morals and ethics were so precious, you should have stopped short of…” Emma’s voice gave out and she stamped her foot in disgust. She turned away and took a few steps to put some distance between them. He was the most infuriating man she’d ever met. She hated he couldn’t get over the past and despised the way he always boxed her up as nothing more than a friend, a confidant. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t stop herself from playing into his hands. She couldn’t decide who she was more disgusted with, herself for not maintaining control or him for being a frustrating pain in the ass. Kicking at the dust under her feet, she rued the way this had gotten out of hand. She wanted to seduce him, not make him uncomfortable, and definitely not turn him away. Ready to go make amends, she was kept still by his body pressing against her back. His hands swept down her arms to clasp hers. “You were saying?”
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“If you aren’t going to accept my offer, then things like that can’t just happen.” He chuffed against her ear. “Your offer for no-strings attached sex?” She swallowed and nodded. “And when you say things like that, you mean when I brought you to orgasm right?” Her mouth dried up. “Emma.” He released her name on a breathless sigh and squeezed her hands. “I want us to be friends, to stay friends.” “Two people who have intimate relations can remain friends,” she insisted. “Just look at Jordan and me. We’re still friends.” The rumble that greeted her rolled across her skin. “He still wants you. That’s different.” “Correction,” she snapped. “He still cares about me as a friend.” “Even if that’s true, you know me. You know that when things finish up between me and a woman, there’s no room for friendship. You do remember that, right?” Yes she did. But she wasn’t after a friendship. She wanted revenge for the way he dismissed her as a woman, for the fact he never even considered her worthy of a heated look. In short, she wanted to screw his brains out, make him want her and then leave him. She wanted him to understand what it was like to desperately want someone who didn’t want in return. “So, you’re saying no to my offer?” She turned to face him, detangling her hands from his. Lenny backed up a step and ran a hand through his hair nervously. Clearly, he didn’t like rejecting a suitor. Well tough, she thought, he’s going to have to say the words. Ugly as it was, she wasn’t letting him reject her offer politely. “Yes.” He sighed. “I respect you and our friendship too much to ruin it with meaningless sex.” She tamped down on a smile. If he didn’t want meaningless sex then what about meaningful sex? But she wasn’t asking that question. “Okay.” She nodded. “I’ll accept your decision and say thanks for the respect. I just hope you know what you’re missing out on.”
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Chapter Four Lenny finally got some sleep, but his dreams were hazy with lust and unquenched thirst of the sexual kind. Lord but he’d wanted to take her up to his room and show her exactly what she was missing out on. Instead, he’d placed a demure kiss on her cheek— all the while remembering how good it felt to lick her neck—and let her drive away. Before hitting the sack, he’d showered under the coldest water he could stand and scrubbed hard to wash away his pathetic treatment of her. And still he climbed into bed with a painful erection that wasn’t taking no for an answer. In his dreams, he fulfilled every one of his primal desires, making love to her over and over until she fell in an exhausted heap and drifted off to sleep. Each time she reached orgasm, he pictured her face as it had been in the club. He watched her eyes glaze over, her lips part and her skin vibrate with the sensation. He imagined what it would be like, buried deep inside her shuddering body and woke gasping for breath on the brink of his own orgasm. He hated rejecting her offer. Not because he desperately desired to accept it but because she meant so damn much to him. It had to hurt. She put her heart on the line and he stomped on it claiming—lamely—that he respected her too much. While his father would applaud him, he suspected every other man he knew would shake his head in disbelief. Free, no-strings attached sex with a gorgeous woman. So few men would turn it down. Hell, even Rocket hadn’t turned down such an offer when Robyn presented it. His boss had dived in head first, throwing caution to the wind and damning the consequences. Okay, so Rocket had his heart squashed but things worked out in the end. Lenny sat up in the dark. What the hell was he thinking? Rocket married the woman offering the free sex and they were already talking about babies. He shook his head, confused by the clash of thoughts running through his mind. When he glanced at the clock, he saw it was just before six and groaned. Sure he slept but he didn’t feel rested and he still had a hard-on. He considered bringing himself relief but once in a day was more than he cared for. Flopping back against the pillows, Lenny struggled to find a way to control his desire for Emma. There were two weeks before he was due to leave and he would see her every day until then. He couldn’t stay permanently aroused, and he wouldn’t subject her to seeing the regret he harbored toward his decision. It had struck him sometime during the night to accept her offer and get her out of his system. It would only take one night and they’d both be free of the awkward feeling
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between them. They could go back to being just friends and while the idea appealed, Lenny wasn’t a man who went back on his word. Unable to get back to sleep, he threw back the sheets and hauled his weary body into another cold shower. She was due by to take him on a tour of LA and to give him time to grill every one of her employees. He needed to be alert and ready. It would be bad enough if Emma saw his uncertainty but it would be so much worse if someone like Jordan sensed Lenny’s dilemma. He suspected Jordan wouldn’t take too lightly to Lenny’s treatment of Emma. The guy was still crushing her and she could delude herself all she liked but Lenny saw the need in the man’s eyes. Worse still, he saw it from a bloke’s point of view and wondered why the hell it aroused the green-eyed monster lurking deep in his soul.
***** In the past forty-eight hours, she’d shown him as much of LA as she cared to. They’d driven through Beverly Hills, took the celebrity house tour, visited Disneyland and went star spotting on Hollywood’s walk of fame. For lunch, Emma wrangled a table at The Ivy. All in all, it had been a pleasant two days, though neither mentioned what happened at the club, or her offer, or the unmentionable rejection. Instead, they’d slipped into something resembling the friendship they’d once shared. Some of the openness was gone and he didn’t exactly confide in her, but at least they were comfortable in each other’s presence again. Taking care of business at the club helped. It took the pressure off the tense awkwardness between them and gave them the opportunity to work together again. All the confidence she had in Lenny returned and his experience at the Melbourne club was invaluable. None of which helped to settle the constant need she felt. Rather than being embarrassed by the unfortunate turn of events with her plans, Emma resolved to change his mind every time she was near him. She made sure to maximize body and eye contact. She wore outfits sure to fuel his lustful daydreams, drenched herself in alluring scents, and allowed each touch of the hand and kiss on the cheek to linger a little longer. Playing dirty had never been so much fun. When she pulled into the hotel drive at the end of the heated forty-eight hours, she found Lenny staring at her with eyes full of hunger. She mentally applauded her efforts but she wasn’t finished yet. She ignored the desire in his eyes calling to her and smiled sweetly. “Was there anything else you wanted to see while you’re here?” she asked in all innocence. Lenny cleared his throat and tried to hide the look in his eyes but failed. She could read those expressive darkened eyes easily. “You promised me a surf,” he ground out between clenched teeth.
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“Oh yeah,” she quipped. As if she’d forgotten. “There’s time for that, though this place isn’t exactly close to the beach.” He nodded. “I could rent a car and drive down to you.” She chuckled. “Sure,” she drawled playfully. “I’ve seen the way you flinch every time you realize we’re on the other side of the road.” Adorably, he blushed. “Look.” She swallowed, summoning a little more courage. “Rather than waste the boss’s money, why don’t you just check out and stay with me until you fly home?” He reared back. Doubt clouded his expression. “I don’t think that’s a good idea, Em.” “Why?” she crooned. “We’ve sorted out that other issue, Lenny. This is just a mate bunking down at a friend’s house. Think of it this way, the surf’s bloody fantastic every morning. You can surf and still spend a full day at the club.” She smiled, satisfied by the quickness of her mind. “Come on, that sounds good, doesn’t it?” He still seemed wary of her intentions and well he should be. Once she had him in her home, Emma was certain the tables would finally turn to her favor. Unburdened by the confines of the club, free of the snoops she called colleagues and without needing to drive back and forward between Beverly Hills and Manhattan Beach, she’d have more time to bring him around. Shrugging with deliberate carelessness, she chuffed. “I suppose if you don’t trust yourself…” “I’m not the problem, Emma.” He laughed, undaunted by talking so openly about her flirting. “You have to promise you’ll behave.” It was her turn to laugh. “I promise,” she crossed her heart like a little kid would, “I’ll be good.” Yeah right, she thought with wicked intent. Buoyed by his eager acceptance, she waited in the car while he cleared out his room, paid the bill and signed out. She watched as he threw his bag into the back of the four-wheel drive and climbed in. “I promise you won’t regret this, Lenny.” As the sun faded, she hiked it south down Sepulveda Boulevard, covering the short distance to Manhattan Beach in no time. Turning onto Eighth Street, she pulled the four-wheel drive into her narrow driveway and killed the engine. As she got out and retrieved his luggage, Lenny slowly left the car and stared up at the narrow two story, white clapboard home. Despite the fading light, he saw every detail and let it burn into his memory. It seemed like the sort of place you’d find in any of the towns along Melbourne’s coastal suburbs and caused him to smile. “You like it?” He nodded, closing the car door. “It’s nice, Em. Not what I expected though.” “Oh yeah?”
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He shrugged and took the bag from her. Their fingers brushed and he closed his eyes to the fire that licked at him. “I guess I expected American architecture to be quite different.” “A house is a house is a house,” she said by way of an explanation. “Come on in.” He followed her inside, not surprised in the least by its neat interior. Actually, neat wasn’t so much a description. Immaculate was better, given the pristine white of the walls, the squeaky clean hardwood floors and the complete absence of dust. He smiled at the thought of messing it all up, just to get back at her for driving him mad with want. The past two days had been agony on his restraint. She seemed determined to drive him insane with need. Every touch had its purpose, every hug too tight. In true Emma fashion though, she’d said nothing more of her tempting offer and kept the sexual innuendos out of their conversations. It was just the physical signs that were killing him. In the living area, she dumped her handbag on the couch and kicked off her shoes. The errant shoes didn’t stay on the floor for long, he noticed. She picked them up and set them on the neat shoe rack in the front hall when he wasn’t looking. The walls of her living room were decorated with two large canvas paintings and he found himself mesmerized by the swirls of colors. One was of a beach, and the clear blue skies and breaking waves relaxed him. The other was of a long pier. At first, he thought it was the famous St. Kilda pier in Melbourne, but the longer he inspected the painting the more unfamiliar it seemed. “I’ll show it to you tomorrow.” Her soft words sounded close by his side. He hadn’t heard her reenter the room. “It’s local?” She nodded. “Nice place to take a sunrise walk.” Inclining his head, he asked, “Local artist?” She nodded again though he detected a flash of something unfamiliar pass through her eyes. He didn’t know what it meant but found himself ready to ask. Lenny stayed silent, suddenly afraid of putting his foot in his mouth. He was in her home, not a good time to piss her off and give her reason to throw him out. “Yeah. I picked up those paintings for bargain basement price.” She smiled, her expression almost wistful. “The guest room is on this floor. You’ll have your own bathroom and complete access to the kitchen. Help yourself to whatever’s in the fridge.” “Thanks, Em. You didn’t have to do this.” “I know.” She chuckled. “But it was a pain in the ass driving into Beverly Hills so often.”
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While he understood she was joking, he felt a certain truth to the statement. He hated the idea of being an inconvenience to her. This way, she just had to give him a yell and they’d be on their way. “Thanks anyway,” he insisted, stepping closer to drag her into an embrace. “I appreciate it.” One giant squeeze later, she was disappearing into the kitchen and wondering aloud whether he was hungry.
***** “Lenny, wake up.” Fighting the hand shaking his shoulder, Lenny rolled over and pulled the comforter up to his chin. He’d slept well, the best night’s sleep since setting foot in the country and here she was, trying to wake him. “Go away,” he grumbled sleepily. “It’s too early.” “Come on,” she cajoled. “Let’s go surfing.” He jerked awake. Surfing? Hell yes. Sitting up, he found her perched on the edge of his bed and chuckling at him. She wiped a little sleep out of his eyes before ruffling his hair. “There’s fresh coffee in the pot,” she offered, rising to her feet. It was then he saw what she was wearing. “And a bowl of cereal with your name on it. Come on,” she urged, turning at the door. Lenny’s eyes bulged wide at the skimpy bathing suit she wore. The scrap of material exposed her delicious curves and outlined her erect nipples. The high cut of material at her hips gave him a heart thumping view of her perfect shape. Licking his parched lips, he swallowed and tried not to give in to her tempting body. Lord but she was going to leave him no option but to take her, he thought. “Don’t make me go by myself.” She laughed and skipped out of his room. His last view was of her delectable bottom bouncing away and urging him to follow. “Sheesh.” He sighed softly. She promised she’d behave, he thought as he rose to his feet. Obviously she wasn’t playing fair, but he wouldn’t be tricked. He’d said no and he meant it. Even if his groin ached all the time. “Weet-bix?” He eyed her warily when he got to the kitchen and found her pulling together some breakfast. Emma blushed, her cheeks flushing bright red. “My mother sends them to me,” she confessed. “It’s one luxury I will not go without.” He chuckled and scraped his hands over his face. Through the window, he could see it was still dark outside. He didn’t want to know the time, sure such knowledge would only make him want to go straight back to sleep.
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After days of either no sleep or restless sleep, he deeply enjoyed the rest he’d gotten. Strange though, that he hadn’t felt relaxed enough to get some sleep until he was in her house. “Thanks,” he called as she pranced away. He poured milk over the rectangle blocks of crunchy wheat and then helped himself to coffee. She returned moments later, wrapped in a printed beach towel. “Sunrise isn’t far away. Do you even have a swimsuit?” “I’ve got shorts,” he offered. “They’ll do. Rocket said it’d be warm over here, though I never thought I’d get to go surfing.” She smiled, her eyes warm and enthusiastic. “Get a move on or we’ll miss the show.” The show? He scoffed his breakfast before changing into his board shorts. He met her in a back room that doubled as a laundry. There, propped against the wall, were five surfboards. He eyed each one appreciatively, admiring their paintwork and cut. She sure knew how to pick a board. When she passed by, she brushed against him in the confines of the small room. Her naked skin broke out in goose bumps though neither said anything. In his mind, he saw himself run a hand over the responsive skin but when she laid her eyes on him, his mind switched tracks and the scene turned x-rated. Lenny swallowed. If Emma saw what he was thinking she didn’t say anything and while he should’ve been glad, he was actually disappointed by her lack of reaction. All this time she’d been provoking him, causing his body to heat and sizzle for her and now she didn’t feel anything? What a crock. “Grab a board,” she said. “Any but the orange one. I’ll be riding it today.” Leaping into action, he scooped her board into his arms and picked the metallic blue one for himself. Carrying them out to the front porch, he found her right behind him stuffing wax sticks into her bag.
***** She led the way down the hill toward the beach. Eighth Street crossed Highland Avenue, Bayview Drive and Manhattan Avenue before it emptied out on to The Strand. It was a heart-pumping walk at the best of times but with Lenny by her side with his lazy loping strides and carrying their boards with ease, her heart was out of control. On The Strand Emma headed south, away from the pier end of the beach. She didn’t want either of them crashing into the pylons of the wooden structure. It would surely ruin the experience. When the first rays of sunlight hit the water, she stopped and dropped the bag containing towels, wax, house keys and cell phones. Lenny stood their boards in the
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sand before they both turned eastward to watch the sun rise up over the small township of Manhattan Beach. She loved the quaint residential area and the developing shopping and entertainment strip along the Boulevard. It was the kind of place she easily called home and, she suspected, a place that would be difficult to leave if the time ever came. “Very nice,” Lenny commented before removing his shirt. She saw the bullet wound instantly and had to hold back from touching it. The entry wound on the left side of his lower rib cage had healed but was unmistakable. There was no exit wound, the bullet ricocheting off a rib in his back, searing through his internal organs and bouncing around until becoming lodged in his liver. How it missed his spinal column no one knew. She’d never forget the amount of blood that poured out of him that night. Nothing she did stemmed its flow and nothing she did could change the fact it tore through so many vital organs. If the ambulance hadn’t been just around the corner, Lenny would have died in her arms. As it was, his heart stopped three times on the operating table. She’d stuck around and watched them crack open his chest to begin the arduous task of repairing the gaping holes in his lungs, stomach, liver and heart. She still didn’t know how he’d survived. “Em?” She jumped when he touched her arm. When her gaze met his, she saw he knew what she was thinking. “Sorry.” “Don’t be,” he said gently, his fingers still on her skin. “It’s kind of hard to miss.” She nodded, her eyes zigzagging up along the scar that traveled from his navel to just below the hollow in his neck. “Want me to put my shirt back on?” “No,” she whispered. “I just,” Emma swallowed and raised her eyes to his, “I haven’t seen the scars without the bandages.” “Yeah, they’re pretty gross.” Shaking her head, Emma stepped closer and touched the scar in the center of his chest. He flinched at her fingertips and then relaxed as she traced up and down the length of it. “Not gross. Just sad, Lenny.” He took her hand in his and raised it to his lips for a warm kiss. “If you want to talk about that night, I’m here. Okay?” Talk about it? Was he kidding? How on earth did he expect her to open up? They’d barely talked about it since it happened and she’d never told anyone about the horror and guilt burning deep in her soul. She’d lost her partner that night. Not in the corporeal sense but in so many other and equally crushing ways.
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When she returned to her job, she returned without Lenny. The loss of him was staggering at best, nightmarish when coupled with the sidelong, accusatory glances of her colleagues. For Emma, the hardest thing hadn’t been that he’d almost died or the responsibility weighing her down. It had been the loss of his presence in her life and all the things that could’ve been. She suspected Lenny didn’t really want to hear about it. He was just being kind and polite. “Maybe.” She shrugged and took her hand back. “Come on, let’s get out there.” Turning away from Lenny before he could say anything, she grabbed her board and ditched her shoes. She ignored the ankle strap and ran full tilt at the early morning waves. The cold water drew her attention away from the past and helped shove the memories back into their box. Hopping over the waves until she couldn’t physically lift her legs any higher, Emma threw her board ahead of her and leapt onto it stomach first. Her breath whooshed out of her lungs, momentarily stealing her ability to paddle. By the time she was ready, Lenny was right by her side. Scooping under and plowing over the waves, she didn’t stop until they reached flat water beyond the break. There, she sat up and straddled her board. She beamed a smile at Lenny. He looked exhausted already. “You okay?” He nodded, struggling to catch his breath. “I haven’t exactly been active of late,” he joked. “Outta shape. And you seem to be full of energy.” She laughed. “I love surfing, you know that. Come on,” she encouraged, spying a ridge in the swell. Turning toward the shore, she paddled madly until she felt the momentum of the wave propel her forward. Kicking up to a crouch position, she rode the wave before standing to her full height and enjoying the spray of water and breeze on her wet skin. When the wave petered out, she found herself alone. Lenny was still sitting atop his board in the flat waters beyond the waves. She waved, he waved back. Then he turned his board, laid flat on his belly and paddled to catch a wave. His legs kicked in opposition to his strong arms cutting a swathe through the water and when he got to his feet, he wobbled a bit before steadying. Emma laughed and applauded his first ride, impressed that he got up first time round. He’d never been a terrible surfer but he had taken a long time to learn. She remembered his first few attempts and smiled at the memories of him falling over and over. “Wow.” He laughed, coming up alongside her. “That was such a rush. I’d forgotten.” They paddled back out to the flat water before making a tandem run, side by side on the same wave. As the wave crested, he reached for her and held her hand while
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they cruised along. When it broke, they dropped back down and paddled out for a rest on the calm ocean. The gentle bobbing of the sea soothed her and helped her forget about the scars on his body. Lenny bobbed beside her, lying face down on his board to rest. “You do this every morning?” “When I can. What better way to start the day?” He smiled. “I agree. Can we come back again?” She splashed water at him playfully. “Of course.” On their last run back to the beach, they caught a wave together and as they surfed side by side, Lenny pulled her board closer to his. So close together, they risked a colossal wipeout but he was prepared to take the chance. Holding her by the hips, Lenny steered their boards along the wave, trying to make it last as long as he could. He felt every muscle contraction and movement in those fine hips of hers and had to fight the urge to pull her against him. He’d been foolish to think he could resist her and now that he’d seen her in her skimpy bathing suit, he wondered what she’d think if he suddenly said yes to the offer he’d already turned down. As the wave grew smaller, they lost balance and tumbled into the water. Surfacing, he held her to him, his front against her back, his arm clamped firmly about her trim waist. While they floated together, he circled his other arm about her. Her head rested against his shoulder, a smile playing on her lips. He’d fallen right into her trap and she knew it but he didn’t care right now. With his arms brushing against her full breasts and his entire body in contact with hers, he wondered why he’d resisted in the first place. “Are you okay?” she asked, rolling her face toward his. He nodded. “Just didn’t want you to go under,” he said, his explanation only half true. “So what else are we doing today?” She chuckled. “Jordan’s in charge at the club so we can do whatever we like. Feel like a drive down the coast?” He nodded, kicking his legs to turn them toward the beach. “Sounds good.” He didn’t want to let her go but when they got back to the beach, he had no choice. He couldn’t get enough of her and he wondered what had changed his mind. Was it the look in her eye when she saw his scars? The one that seemed so scared and vulnerable and just about shouted at him not to take her for granted? Or was it seeing her in the flashy swimsuit, now clinging to her more provocatively than he’d remembered. If she hadn’t covered up with the beach towel, he was sure he’d do something crazy. “Why are you looking at me that way?” Caught. “What way?”
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She stepped closer to him and pointed into his eyes. “That way. Do I need to wear a wetsuit around you?” He laughed. “Nothing will cover up those curves, Em.” He leaned in and filled his nostrils with the smell of salt, sand and Emma. “And who said I wanted them covered up?”
***** After a long day of driving along the glorious California coast, Emma was exhausted. While she’d enjoyed Lenny’s company, she couldn’t get his words out of her head. He made it sound like he was reconsidering her offer. Strange as it seemed, she’d become accustomed to their nonsexual togetherness. Seeing his scars reminded her that he meant more to her than a casual fling. They shared a history worth much more than she’d credited, making Emma reconsider her strategy. While the scars didn’t lessen her attraction, they did make her take stock of just what she was doing. Playing with his emotions now seemed heartless and the revenge a petty whim. She showered before pulling together a dinner of eggs and bacon on toast. Lenny sat at the kitchen table, still dressed in the tee shirt and shorts from surfing, sipping iced cola and watching her every move. It should have delighted her that he’d changed his mind but somehow, it worried her. After spending the day recapturing their oncestrong friendship, she didn’t want to risk losing it again—which was in total contrast to what she’d had in mind just days ago. “Thanks,” he said on a sigh when she set a plateful of food in front of him. “This looks and smells delicious.” Emma took her seat opposite him, her foot brushing against his. The contact was oddly comforting. “Did you enjoy the day?” He nodded and grinned, rubbing his foot against hers. “I did, very much.” She watched as he filled his mouth with food and then did the same. Comfortable silence enveloped them while they ate. She remembered this, the way it felt to be around him, so safe and secure. Why would she jeopardize that? All because he never slept with her in the first place? It seemed ridiculous to want to get back at him for not seeing her as a sexual conquest. It had been too long ago and she’d been so hung up on it she forgot he was an irreplaceable friend. Of course she was still attracted to him. Hell, the way his foot rubbed against her skin reminded her of the night at the club. She grew warm just thinking about it. He’d be good in bed. His reputation was based on his sexual prowess and dammit, she wanted to experience it. Confused, Emma stared at her half-empty plate and silently wondered what to do. She needed to relax away from Lenny so she could think with a clear head.
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“That was delish,” he complimented. “Thanks.” She heard the clink of cutlery and plates before he stood and took his dishes to the sink. “I’m going to grab a shower, okay?” She nodded. “Sure.” Crossing to her side, Lenny threaded his hand through her soft hair and gently massaged her scalp. God that felt good. She had to resist leaning against his hip and letting him massage her to sleep. “I like it when you’ve got no products in your hair,” he said softly, finishing the massage with a gentle rub of her earlobe. It sent a lightning bolt through her needy body. “Spikes look good on you but the sticky gel is weird.” She chuckled. “Go, shower. I’ll see you in the morning.” Lenny nodded and scooted out of the kitchen before he did something more. Touching her was like eating chocolate, once he started he didn’t want to stop. And after the intimate day they’d shared, he didn’t want to ruin it. He could see she was tired, barely able to keep her eyes open and he wanted to give himself some time to really be sure about what he wanted. He stood under the hot water and rinsed the dried salt and sand from his body. Relaxed and content, he lathered up the soap and washed. He forgot how calm she made him feel. This was what it had been like between them years ago. That comfortable, worn-in pair of jeans feel, reliable and utterly homey. This was the Emma he remembered. Turning off the taps, he dried off and stepped into his pajama bottoms. He needed to say goodnight but the ground floor stood empty. Lenny climbed the stairs to the second floor to find her. The light to her room was off but a light in a second room caught his attention. Treading lightly, he edged toward the room and peeked around the corner. The sight that confronted him took his breath away, leaving him enchanted. The room had been turned into an art studio, the walls lined with canvases of various scenes. Blank canvases were stacked against one wall while white drop-sheets covered the floor. An easel stood in the center of the room, a half-finished painting of a woman surfing propped up on it. And, standing with her back to him, was the artist. Emma. His heart pounded in his chest as he took in her bikini clad-body. A streak of blue paint on her hip caught his attention. How did that get there? His imagination leapt at the thought and a vision of her brushing against the still-wet canvas hit him. Adrenaline rushed through his body while blood thudded in his ears. She was the local artist who’d painted the prints downstairs. That explains the bargain basement price. As his lips curled into a wry smile, she shifted to pick up a pallet of colored paints to her right. He was treated to a side profile of her barely-there sunshine yellow bikini and the smooth tanned skin of her belly.
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He swallowed, not wanting to disturb her. Hell, he could stand here all night and watch her every move. His throat tightened and the muscles in his abdomen clenched at the way the bikini clung to her ass. His hands tingled as he remembered the way he’d touched her on the dance floor. He wanted to touch her again, fill his hands with that plump rump. But something about her mood at the dinner table suggested she might not let him tonight. Until now, she’d pushed and challenged and teased and taunted. He was more than ready to give in. He was ready to push back and find out just what she’d let him do. The things he had in mind were probably more than she expected, but he was unconcerned. She’d told him what she wanted, and now he wanted it too. A voice in his head reminded him of his duty and honor, of the dignified rules drummed into him from the time he was a boy. For the first time, Lenny turned the volume on that voice all the way down. It would not control him tonight. Slipping into the room without a sound, he came up behind her and molded his hands to her hips. Her body jumped in his hands but she didn’t pull away. Encouraged, he pressed his arousal to the crease of her bottom and thrust against her. It was only then he noticed her hands were totally covered in paint. Peering over her shoulder, he looked from her hued hands to the painting. Oh boy, she didn’t use paintbrushes. His heart hammered harder in his chest. When he caressed her belly and slid his hands upward, her breath hitched in her throat. She was imprisoned by her own doing, her painted hands preventing her from touching anything. She watched, helpless as his fingers flicked at the edge of her bikini bra, her breasts hardening at the thought of being touched by him. When he cupped her and held the weight of her breasts in his hands, she let her head fall back against his shoulder and moaned, long and low. He moaned too, though his ended with a low, rumbling growl that vibrated across her skin. “It’s just an affair,” he whispered. “Just sex.” “Yes,” she hissed, dragging the word out as he rolled her nipples with his fingers. “Oh God, yes.” “Just until I go back to Australia, Em. It can’t be more than that.” She nodded, pushing her breasts into his hands, demanding his attention. “Yes, yes.” “I don’t want to hurt you, Em.” She was sick of him saying that, so she grabbed his hands with her painted ones and pushed them harder onto her breasts, the thin material of the bikini soaking in the paint from her palms. “Shut up, Lenny.” He chuffed at her ear. “Keep painting, Em.”
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Chapter Five Dipping her fingers in the paint, she tried to concentrate on getting the colors of the cresting waves right but his hands kneading her breasts made it difficult. She wanted to relax, give in and surrender to his desire. He wanted her to paint, while he pleasured her. The string of her bikini bra loosened before the entire piece fell away. Standing half naked, she could only watch as Lenny turned his attention to the bottoms. He hooked his fingers under the material at her hips and dragged them down her legs. His deliberate ease of movement made her chest squeeze tight and when he motioned for her to step out of them, Emma had to concentrate on keeping her balance. On his knees, he kissed the sensitive skin in the small of her back. With her fingers coated in the water-based paint, she fought the desire to reach for him. Rather, she spread more aqua colored paint through the water, streaking the ocean with darker lines. From the pallet she scooped a fingertip through the blue and white dollops, mixing them to create the perfect color for the bubbling crest of the wave chasing the surfer. Rubbing her finger in circles, she almost toppled over when his hands slid up the insides of her thighs and separated them. “Lenny—” Anything else she had to say fizzled into a long groan as his fingers met her heat. She swayed a little and he clamped a hand on her left hip to steady her. The nimble fingers between her thighs stroked her hood, teasing her with tentative deeper dips into her wet entrance. Struggling to breathe, Emma let her hands drop to her sides and focused on his fingertips. “Keep painting,” he instructed, his thick voice quavering. “It’s too hard,” she moaned. “I can’t concentrate.” He chuckled and turned her around to face him. Staring down into his eyes darkened with desire, she swiped a fingertip across the tip of his nose, smearing light blue paint over it. “God you’re beautiful,” he whispered, rising to spread hot kisses over her belly. His tongue caressed her skin while his hands found the lower curve of her bottom and gently separated her cheeks. Emma hissed, eliciting a naughty chuckle from him. The sound rippled over her stomach while his fingers inched closer to her opening. Unable to touch him, her entire being zeroed in on the sensations he stirred deep in her womb. His tongue flicked and laved, his lips suckled and nipped. She’d died and gone to heaven, hadn’t she?
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Fire erupted within her, causing her to shudder upon exhale. If he didn’t hurry, she would leap ahead without him. Trouble was, she’d already been there on her own and decided this time he was coming along for the ride. “Len—” His fingers dipped into her pussy, spreading her slickness along her nether lips toward her clit. He circled the nub of nerves but didn’t touch it. Impatient, she arched her back to force the contact but he tsk-tsked and shook his head. When she opened her mouth to speak, his finger entered her fully, reaching in to caress her from within. Oh but she wanted so much more. Yet she couldn’t move, wouldn’t break the contact. Trying to stay the inevitable, she squeezed her eyes closed but it only amplified the sensations. When she thought she couldn’t take it, he slipped a second finger into her and searched for the elusive but rewarding spot. Emma set her hands on his shoulders, scared she might lose her balance completely as he stroked her with relentless pressure. Panting, she tried to suck in air but only inhaled his aroused scent. Skating so close to the edge, she wanted him to drive her into bliss so much she had to grit her teeth to keep from demanding more. So focused was she on his fingers, she almost missed the brush of his lips against hers. Soft and tender, she parted her lips for him and smiled when he sucked her bottom lip into his mouth. Her eyes sprang open and she fell straight into the dark pools of black only inches away. At his mercy, her body began to quake. Her knees wobbled, threatening to crumble under the sheer delight of the moment. The kiss grew deeper, his lips covering hers completely, his tongue skimming along her teeth. It was the way she’d remembered it, so hot and demanding, his tongue strong and not taking no for an answer. A whimper escaped when his fingers slid out of her but his timing was impeccable as her knees gave way and she crumpled to him. Lenny’s wicked smile mesmerized her. He held her by the hips while his mouth and tongue worked along her jaw and then down her neck. Trying to catch her breath, Emma cried out when his teeth grazed across her hardened nipple. “Lenny.” His name rode out on a sigh. Lord but she wanted to run her fingers through his hair. “You’re going to kill me.” His devilish laugh tickled her breast, the hot air jamming her heart into top gear. “Nah,” he raised his head and met her gaze, “I might drive you insane with need but I’m not gonna kill you, babe.” “Lenny, I want to touch you.” He nodded and then seemed to remember her paint-stained hands and laughed. “Meet me in your room,” he crooned, pressing his lips against hers briefly. Emma nodded but had trouble finding her feet again. She felt as if she were made of jelly, unable to control her movements and feeling awkward and uncoordinated. When he stood, Lenny wrapped her arm around his shoulders and slid his around her waist. 54
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“Maybe I’ll give you a hand, eh?” In the bathroom, he stood behind her while she washed the paint from her hands. His fingers continued to touch and caress while his hardened bulge reminded her what awaited them. Turning the tap off, she looked at his reflection in the mirror and noticed just how flushed his skin was. He met her gaze and her heart almost stopped. “You are a magnificent artist,” he whispered, kissing the back of her shoulder. “I can’t believe you paint with your hands.” She smiled. “More control than a brush.” In the sink, she soaked a small wash towel with water. Turning to him, she slowly wiped the paint from his shoulders and finally his nose. With a smile, she flipped the wet towel over her shoulder and back into the basin. He winked. “Promise me you’ll use those hands on me, Em.” She nodded, dragging in a ragged breath at the thought of wrapping her hands around his stiff shaft. She pressed a hand to his crotch and kissed him with the promise of the night ahead. While slow seconds ticked by, she licked his lips before letting her tongue venture into his mouth. Her tongue met his and the two danced leisurely, taking the time to connect. She was aware of his hands on her hips, felt him pull her naked body against his but her attention was solely on his tasty mouth. She hauled in air while the essence of him sluiced through her veins. He was everything she remembered and more. She’d never known he could ignite an inferno in her womb by the way he licked her lips. Or that he could create such an intense pounding in between her thighs just by fanning hot air over her skin. “You taste good,” he growled. “But I want to sample every gorgeous inch of you, Em.” While he changed the angle of his head, his hand reached down to grasp her knee. Lifting it, he hooked it over his hip and fitted his erection between her legs. His other hand took hold of her other knee and tugged, lifting her off the ground and onto his hips. Unsure of where he found the strength, she threaded her fingers through his hair while he walked them to her room. Feeling him move between her thighs while he walked aroused her further. The cooler air on her heated intimate parts made for a kinky contrast, bringing a smile to her lips. “What?” he asked, spying the bed over her shoulder. She shook her head, a deep crimson blush creeping into her cheeks. Now he was really curious. “Emma?” “Promise you won’t laugh.”
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He nodded, coming to a halt at the edge of the bed. If this move didn’t show her he’d completely healed, he didn’t know what would. Strange that he wasn’t out of breath, he thought. “I promise.” She leaned forward, her lips against his ear as she said, “The cool air between my legs is rather kinky.” He growled and dropped her onto the bed. Emma stared up at him while he shucked his bottoms in one move. “You are gonna kill me, lady. Condoms?” She swallowed, the action of her bobbing throat drawing his gaze. With her lips parted like that, he could almost see himself sliding into her mouth. It was his turn to gulp. “Bedside table, top drawer.” He felt her eyes on his naked form while he retrieved the foil packets, dropping a few onto the tabletop for easy access while keeping one in hand. Striding back to her, he ripped open the pack and sheathed his hard cock. “Lenny?” “Yes?” She reached for his hand and pulled him down to her. “Don’t make me wait any longer.” Lenny smiled. He had no intention of making either of them wait one more second. Foreplay was over—he was ready for the main course. And by the sounds of things, Emma was long overdue. Lying alongside her, he trailed a hand over her breast, down her belly to between her thighs. She opened obligingly and he found her wet and hot. Without moving, he slid one finger into her again, reminding himself of the tightness about to treat his cock to an incredible luxury. Pulling out, he rubbed her clit and watched her eyes drift shut. “Emma,” he called, positioning himself over her. Hovering an inch above her body, he waited until she opened her eyes again. “Lenny,” she moaned as he entered her, burying his hardness deep inside her throbbing heat. Thrusting into her, he watched her watch him, felt her hands glide up and down his back before gripping his shoulders. Her inner muscles tightened. A shudder passed through her. He cursed silently. It was too soon. Rolling them, he smiled when she straddled his hips. She set a blistering pace, faster than he would have anticipated and the need to come built lightning quick inside him. He wanted it, needed it and so filled his hands with her firm round breasts and kneaded them until they were hard. Sitting up, he plastered his lips to her nipple, tugging and pulling at the pearled bud as her breathing quickened. Moaning, she arched her back, her fingers in his hair holding on while her entire body bucked. Her muscles around his shaft contracted and relaxed in quick succession.
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He watched the powerful orgasm blossom within her, making her nipples pull tight, her skin flush and her eyes glaze over. Her body pulsed from the inside out and at their point of connection, Lenny couldn’t miss the heat they shared. Jerking her head forward, she shook it and kept riding him, her hips dancing under his hands. Knowing what he wanted, Lenny flipped them, not missing a beat. He thrust between her thighs, using her slick juices to slide the length of her pussy. He’d never believed it would be this erotic, this utterly satisfying to be buried deep inside Emma, pleasuring her with long hard strokes until her body shook with ecstasy. He gave in this time, the expression on her face bringing him undone. He growled when he exploded, spilling into the condom and milking the last of the sensation until neither could continue. Slumping onto her, he breathed against her neck and stroked the side of her face gently. Turning to him, she let out a stuttering breath and kissed him, a long slow sweep of her tongue through his mouth to let him know he’d satisfied her. Returning the sentiment, he kept his lips tangled with hers and stared into her peaceful eyes.
***** When Emma woke, she found Lenny’s arms wrapped around her, his fingers strumming along her shoulder. Not impatient but soothing. She tilted her face upward and found him wide-eyed, watching her intently. “How long have I been asleep?” “An hour, maybe two. It doesn’t matter.” The only light that burned was the soft, low-wattage lamp on the floor by the bed. She’d left it there because it was too bright up on the bedside table. It cast a muted, gentle glow through the room and lent a beautiful glow to his face. She reached up, trailed her fingertips down the side of his face. It hadn’t crossed her mind she’d be speechless after finally having her way with him. Nor had she understood how incredible it would feel to have him fill her. Under her touch, he quivered. “Lenny, I—” “Shh.” He smiled and pressed a hot kiss to her lips. “Relax, Em, there’s no need to talk.” His hand drifted south, skimming over her belly and cupping her hip. Rolling her toward him, he tucked her arm under him and rested his chin on top of her head. Settling into his embrace, Emma placed her ear against his chest and listened to the lubdub of his heart. “You were amazing,” he whispered. “It was too quick,” she insisted, desperately wanting him back inside her. “It was over far too soon.”
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He chuckled, his chest bouncing against her cheek. “So true. Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere just yet. You’re tired, get some rest.” Emma almost laughed. She’d told him the same thing not so long ago. But he was right and she was sleepy. Wrapped in his embrace, she felt invincible and powerful and calm. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and let it out slowly. His nipple puckered but she didn’t reach for it, intuition warning her that starting something now would drain her totally. She drifted into sleep, acute awareness of his presence tiptoeing through her mind. The heat of his body against hers relaxed her, reassured her and stood as a stark reminder that it had never felt this good with Jordan. When Emma opened her eyes hours later, she was alone. Panicked by the fear that she’d dreamed the entire episode, she crawled out of bed, wrapped a sheet around her and descended the stairs to the first floor. The aroma of cooking pancakes cleared her fuzzy head. In the kitchen, she found him wearing briefs under one of her aprons. She chuckled, snaring his attention from the feast he was preparing. In the comfortable silence, he smiled. Emma entered the room and slipped her arms around his waist from behind, glad when he lifted her hand to his mouth for a morning kiss. “I thought I’d let you sleep,” he said softly. “Thanks.” She sighed and rested her cheek against his shoulder. “I was so tired.” “And now?” She smiled and pressed her lips to his hot skin. “I’m good to go.” Lenny turned in her arms and cupped a hand under her chin. He looked serious. “Do we need to go to the club today?” Emma shook her head. “I’ll call and tell Jordan to take care of things. Why?” A sly smile curved his lips and a naughty twinkle sparkled in his eye. “I thought we could pick up where we left off?” “Oh.” Her heart rate kicked up a notch at his suggestion. “I didn’t get to finish last night,” he whispered, dragging his lips across hers in a hint of what he had to offer. “At least, not everything I wanted to do.” “Like?” He growled. “I never got to taste you. You never got to taste me.” Air whooshed out of her but was captured by the hungry lips covering hers and waking her the rest of the way. If he wanted more, he should never have left the bed. Rather than debate his actions, she tugged at the knot of the apron and dislodged the strings. Lifting the neck loop off his head, she removed it and splayed her hands across his hard chest. Her fingertips touched the smooth skin of his scar, drawing her attention. He’d called them gross, she’d called them sad. The truth was they reminded them both of the one night they’d shared and could never forget. 58
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Loosening her lips from his, she dipped her head to his chest and pressed a kiss to the scar over his heart. Lenny moaned, a soft content sound. His fingers slid into her hair, holding her head while she caressed his wounds with the compassion overwhelming her heart. With her lips and her tongue, she made her way along the entire length of the scar and back up to his neck where she paused, lips still fixed to his slightly roughened skin. “Emma.” His mouth rested against her ear and his lips scorched her skin. “Thank you.” Smiling against him, she resumed her slow tasting session, rising to his jaw and then traversing across to the corner of his mouth. Using her tongue, she sipped from his lips while keeping hers out of the way. He wasn’t having any of it, leaping across the tiny distance to possess her mouth. “Hungry?” She grinned playfully. “Not for pancakes, Lenny.” Laughter bubbled under the kiss but was abruptly cut short by the electricity exploding back into life. The simmering heat was gone, replaced by more of the unrelenting hunger that had brought their first coupling to such a volatile climax. She wanted more, regardless of whether it was hard and fast, or slow and sensual. She suspected he could provide both, if she could only find enough control to use her vocal chords. When the smell of something burning caught her attention, Emma broke away and peered over his shoulder. With a curse she extinguished the flame, grabbed the handle of the pan and hurled it in the sink. Smoke billowed as she ran cold water over the sizzling pan and blackened pancake. “Shit!” Flicking running water at him, Emma grinned. “No harm, no foul,” she explained, turning off the tap. She turned to the half naked Lenny and stepped into his space. He backed up as far as the counter would allow, his expression one of puzzlement. “Em?” Shaking her head, Emma loosened the sheet around her and let it drop to the floor. “Devour me,” she demanded, gluing her naked body to him. The dazed expression on his features cleared and he didn’t hesitate. Finding his feet, he directed her back toward the dining table. Good thing he hadn’t set it yet, he thought. He laid her on the tabletop and hooked her knees over his shoulders, exposing the ripe, wet lips of her pussy to him. Her swollen pink lips glistened for him, beckoning his mouth. Lenny did just that, dipping his head between those quivering thighs and inhaling a deep breath of her scent. He imagined what she tasted like but the first pass of his tongue reminded him reality was always better than fiction. Need surged through his body as he licked her from end to end, being sure to cover every magnificent inch of her in slow, deliberate strokes meant to tease. 59
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Circling his tongue around her wet entrance, he rubbed his thumb in slow circles over the highly sensitive skin just behind it. Her hips came off the table, bringing a satisfied grin to his lips. It was only fair he teased and tortured her erotically after she’d initiated the game. It became his mission to drive her crazy, to make her cry out his name and beg him to make her come. Shifting away from the entry to paradise, he dragged his tongue up to her clit. The swollen numb poked out from under her hood, waiting to be licked. Rather than lave it with his tongue, Lenny sucked it into his mouth and rolled it between his tongue and his upper lip. Oblivious to anything but Emma, he felt her knees wobble by his ears, heard her labored breathing and tasted the craving in her juices. He pulled back and blew a steady stream of warm air over her exposed mound. Her hips danced for him and when her breath hitched, he smiled in victory. The long, low groan rumbling through her chest went straight to his groin. Lenny squeezed his eyes shut at the tightening in his shorts but the only true way to play this game was to continue his sensuous torment. Still with his eyes closed, he pressed his lips over her opening and flicked the entrance with his tongue. It evoked the desired response. She grew restless above him and sighed in frustration. She wanted release. He wanted to prolong it until neither of them could stop. Driving his tongue deeper into her core, he felt her muscles clench around it, trying to hold him there. He slid out and commenced a steady rhythm of thrusting, gently suckling with his lips. “Oh, Lenny.” She sounded breathless, just the way he wanted her to. “Oh my.” More of her juices flowed for him and he spread them with his tongue, coating her extremities with the sweet nectar. This wasn’t his first time giving such oral pleasure but it was certainly the first time he’d been pushed to climax while giving it. His cock strained against the cotton briefs, demanding attention. For the first time in his life, he ignored his own need and continued pleasuring Emma. If he could drive his tongue all the way into her, he would, but the damned thing wasn’t long enough. He settled for using his fingers, sneaking them into her while his lips captured her nub again. Her muscles gripped him tight, her pelvis trembling. Increasing the pressure of his fingertips on the front wall of her passage, Lenny wished like crazy for her to hold off a little longer. When she came, the entire table shook under her and the guttural cry that issued from her throat was the most primal sound he’d ever heard. She was out of breath, so was he. Sweat glistened on her skin while it streaked down his brow. And when he stood and peered down at her, she shook her head. “More,” she demanded, her tender voice striking him deep. “More, Lenny.” Lucky he’d predicted this moment while lying awake in bed. Having sex in the kitchen wasn’t the most common act—at least not for him—but he was prepared. Lenny
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slid the small foil packet out from the sneaky pocket in his briefs and waved it for her to see. In a flash she sat up and yanked his shorts down to his knees. Stealing the condom from him, she covered him and guided him inside her wetness, still throbbing from the orgasm. The table was too low so he picked her up and set her on the edge of the counter. “Much better,” he growled, taking her mouth on a journey while his hips rocked against hers. “Can you taste it?” “Yes.” She quivered. “Next time, you’ll taste me.” “Yes,” she cried out, her heels digging into his buttocks and pulling him impossibly closer. He marveled at the way her skin shone in the muted morning light, licked at her neck to taste the saltiness while she nipped at his ear. The only problem was that he needed to get further inside her somehow. Kicking off his briefs, he picked her up, stepped back and widened his stance. Bending his knees, he held her by the ass cheeks and with nothing in the way, he drove his hips back and forward. Emma held on, unsure just where he found the strength. Every part of her felt alive, crying out for him and praying he’d never stop. Her vaginal walls contracted and she tried in vain to stem the convulsions but there was no use. Every muscle in her pelvis pulled incredibly tight, tighter than ever before. She felt herself crush against him but Lenny powered on until his mouth found hers. The minute their lips touched, the world seemed to stop. The pounding in her ears went silent, her breath caught in her throat. All she could see, sense, feel and taste was the man finally giving in, his rocking orgasm igniting further tremors inside her. Together they cried out. Spent, Lenny slumped onto a chair, taking her with him. His gaze found hers, reeling her in, entrapping her. Her lips connected with his before a burst of adoration detonated in her chest. Needing to show it to him, she pressed light kisses over his face and murmured incoherent sounds. Lenny’s fingertips trailed over her skin and when she pulled back to stare into those dark irises, he smiled. She expected him to say something but instead he dipped his head and dragged his tongue up through the valley between her breasts to her neck. He growled against her throat, the thunderous sound reverberating along her spine. Finally, he spoke. “You’re amazing,” he said sincerely, his voice full of affection rather than bravado. “I’m impressed.” She chuffed softly. “Wait ‘til I go down on you,” she whispered. In truth, she couldn’t speak any louder. The expression in his eyes snaked through her veins and pooled in her heart. She had to be careful. It was looks like those she could fall for. This wasn’t about falling in love, she reminded her heart. This was about capturing her prey.
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Lenny laughed softly. “I can’t wait, Em. Show me everything you’ve got.”
***** After a shower and a shave, Lenny noticed she’d mysteriously disappeared. He thought she might have needed a nap after their morning’s…exertions…but he found her in the studio. As he stood at the door, careful not to disturb her concentration—this time—he noticed that the scene in the painting had changed. It was still of the same wave, with the same surfboard and the same cloudless blue sky, but the woman had changed. Rather, it was now a man. Lenny, to be precise. He smiled, flattered. “Don’t you dare come in,” she warned, her voice a surprising mix of playfulness and threat. “I’m not messing this one up.” How’d she even know he was there? “I wouldn’t dream of it, babe. I gotta say, I think you’ve captured my likeness quite well.” As she laughed, her shoulders jiggled. Thank God she wasn’t wearing a bikini, he thought. He couldn’t be held responsible for his actions if she continued taunting him that way. “I might be a while,” she said softly. “I want to finish.” “Oh.” He feigned disappointment. She turned. “We can’t spend the entire day having sex.” “Who says?” Her eyes flared as her cheeks colored. Lord but she was adorable. He was glad to see her hair was all natural and free from grease and sludge and stuff. He missed her long hair and he missed the blonde. He could just imagine what it’d feel like to have it brush over his naked skin. “Stop it,” she instructed, though he detected arousal in her eyes. “I mean it, Lenny. Stop with the erotic thoughts.” He shook his head, more than slightly disturbed at her intuition. “Only if you stop reading my mind, Em.”
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Chapter Six Emma was certain he could still walk away without looking back. Even after a week of being thoroughly devoured, rocked and kissed by him, she wasn’t convinced Lenny was hooked. Yes, he wanted to be with her in a physical sense. And yes, he seemed to enjoy her company. But it was the looking back she hankered for. The knowledge that he needed more from her than just sex was the absolute minimum she would accept. Unfortunately, business needed her attention. While she drove them to the club, the sun set on the western horizon in a blaze of orange. She racked her brain, searching for something, a special kind of gift she could bestow upon him that would seal the deal. They arrived at the club before she figured out the puzzle and the unfamiliar truck parked in her usual spot snagged her attention. Her plans for Lenny would have to wait. “Why are we here again?” Lenny sounded strangely confused. When she turned to him, she saw why. He didn’t want to be here, didn’t want to think about anything other than what mischief they could get up to naked and alone. Or at least, those were the thoughts running through her mind. In the silence of the cab, Emma leaned over and paused an inch from his lips. She smiled, taking a long deep breath of everything Lenny. Sidetracked by the way her heart zoomed and her loins lurched, her mind went blank. “Emma?” Sighing softly, she nipped at his upper lip. “Shut up, Lenny.” Nip. “It’s hard enough to think with you sitting so damn close.” Lick. “Just let me,” kiss. “Do,” sigh. “My job.” He smiled. “I thought I was your job.” A burst of laughter erupted from her chest at the innuendo in his voice. “Funny you.” “In all seriousness,” he spoke. With her eyes imprisoned by his hungry gaze, she jumped when his thumb grazed over her distended nipple. “How long will this take?” “Why?” The playfulness disappeared when he shook his head “Don’t play dumb. You know what I want. You know what’s on my mind.” “Indulge me,” she offered with a slow, teasing kiss. Lenny shuddered. “You’re so good at this,” he praised, guiding her hand to his hard cock. “See what you do to me?” She smiled, genuinely pleased. “I still want to know what’s on your mind.”
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“Okay.” He winked, sliding his lips over her cheekbone to her ear. “When we get back to your place, I’m going to—” Someone pounded on the hood of the car, causing both Lenny and Emma to bump heads. Bringing her hand up to rub the sore spot on her temple, she turned to see who the offending party was. Jordan. And he wore a look she knew all too well. “I’m gonna kill him,” she mumbled grudgingly. With a quick glance at Lenny, she said, “You are going to finish that sentence. Don’t you think otherwise.” He rubbed his cheek, scowling adorably. That expression changed when his gaze met hers and she virtually heard the sentiment echoed by the beat of her heart. Oh he had plenty on his mind and it made her tender parts throb with excitement. Emma pushed open her door, almost swinging it straight into Jordan. He glowered at her before sliding his wary gaze over to Lenny. “What are you doing?” he demanded in a low grouse, pulling her close. Emma shook her head. This was neither the time nor the place for such a discussion. A one-sided, I’m warning you kind of discussion no doubt. And Jordan would be doing all the talking, trying to make her see things his way. She slammed the car door shut hoping Lenny stayed inside a little longer. “Not now.” “I’m only thinking of you,” he qualified his concern. “You’re in over your head.” “Ha!” she scolded, pushing past him. He raced to catch up to her. “Emma, have some sense.” “Not now,” she growled, injecting her voice with an ominous warning. To his credit, Jordan backed off. Inside the dimly lit club, her thoughts were whisked away from the trouble brewing with Jordan by the clump of women surveying the stage. Observing them for a moment, she found it hard to accept that this ragtag band of Australian women had somehow catapulted themselves to stardom in just under six months. The band, Mystique, were the club’s opening act, their stop here in LA a prelude to a much longer tour of the States. It was rumored the band’s founder had been snubbed by the famous Nicholas St. Eve of Tantaliser, and was exacting her revenge by beating him in the charts. Ah, Emma thought with a fond sense of satisfaction, my kind of gal. “Hello, ladies,” she called as she neared the softly murmuring group. They were supposed to be a rock band, all loud drums and guitars and attitude. In reality, they gave the impression of soft little kittens. Sex kittens perhaps but harmless nonetheless. “I’m Emma Kingston, thanks for coming.”
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All six women turned with eyes of excitement and joy. Emma couldn’t help but smile. “Hey there, Emma.” A sweet, innocent-faced blonde stepped forward. “I’m Rachel Weinstein, Mystique’s manager. Let me start with a big thanks for the gig.” “Anything to help fellow Aussies.” Emma grinned. “Can I ask which of you is Charlie?” A taller woman, with long bleached blonde hair stepped forward and extended a hand. Her to-die-for body strangely made Emma possessively proud of her curvaceous hips. “That would be me. Nice to meet you.” Emma giggled. “No, nice to meet you. I’ve heard you’re the driving force behind the band and have written a lot of the songs on your album. I’m impressed.” Charlie blushed. “Thanks. Any more compliments like that and we might have to make you an honorary member.” A ripple of laughter rattled around the group before they moved to the seating area to get down to business, leaving Lenny alone with Jordan. Despite the brusque manner with which the man had greeted Emma minutes earlier, Lenny was not intimidated. Nor did he feel the need to defend his affair with Emma. They were two consenting adults and Jordan needed to keep his nose out of their business. Lenny turned, intending to relay the information when Jordan shook his head. “Look at her, will you. She’s like a kid in a candy store.” Lenny frowned and followed Jordan’s gaze to Emma. He was right, she looked utterly enchanted with the all-female band. Lenny only knew what Rocket had told him of Mystique, which wasn’t much. But after meeting the illustrious Nik St. Eve—the apparent catalyst for Mystique’s existence—Lenny had planted his feet firmly in the women’s corner. Nik was a throwback to the caveman days and loved to play up his image as the bad boy of rock. “She does look happy.” “Happy? You call that happy?” The two men faced off. “Lenny, she’s friggin’ glowing. I know what you two are up to.” Straightening his shoulders, Lenny dared his rival to say what was on his mind. Rival? What the hell? True, Jordan wasn’t over Emma. And he might very well want to win her back. But he and Lenny couldn’t possibly be after the same thing. Lenny was sitting pretty, having his cake and eating it too with the no-strings attached sexual fling. If he read Jordan right, then the man wanted so much more from Emma. In that case, they were not rivals. Were they? “And?” Jordan’s expression darkened. “You need to back off, man.” “Because?”
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Jordan shrugged and sighed. “If you break her heart, you’ll have me to contend with.” Lenny chuckled. “Emma is perfectly capable of taking care of herself. She doesn’t need your overprotective ego shielding her. Or didn’t you get that memo?” “Look, I know she gives the impression she’s a tough chick who doesn’t give a rat’s ass but she is breakable. Remember that, Lenny.” Lenny shook his head. “I get it,” he said in his best I understand where you’re coming from voice. “You’ve still got the hots for her.” “Maybe,” Jordan conceded much too easily. “I still care about her and I will not hesitate to step in to keep her safe. She’s a special and unique woman. Don’t you dare screw that up, man.” Shell-shocked by Jordan’s honesty, Lenny remained rooted to the spot when the other man walked away. Continuing to watch Emma interact with the band, he felt the passion in Jordan’s sentiment. She was a special and unique woman, part of the reason why he’d tried so desperately to resist her. He’d warned her, qualified his reluctance with the I don’t want to hurt you speech. She couldn’t claim ignorance on that score, though he knew when push came to shove, he’d shrivel up and die from guilt if he did hurt her. It was difficult to read Emma, with her carefree attitude and apparent enjoyment of sex. She allowed him complete access to her body, and she wasn’t shy in giving him a peek of her thoughts either. It didn’t appear she was hiding anything from him, and her honesty boosted his confidence that their affair was nothing more than two adults enjoying intimate contact. So why did he feel like something was missing between them? It struck him stupid to think he wanted there to be more. As if he wanted her to feel affection for him. Or like he needed her to want more from him despite the fact that he couldn’t deliver. Did that sound totally messed up? Absolutely. How could he justify the expectation that she would feel or want more than sex when she’d openly pointed out she accepted their relationship the way it was? He felt like a coward for projecting his desires onto her, like he was hiding behind the stereotypical images of women. In his experience, it was never the man who needed more from a partner. Always the woman. And it was the man who was happy to keep things physical. That Emma took on that role disturbed him more than it should have. Lenny should be happy with things the way they were. He should not want her to want more, and yet in a strange twist of fate, he did. The idea that she could put him out of her mind after two weeks and get on with her life without a second thought, left him feeling oddly empty. Suddenly feeling woozy, Lenny stumbled over to the bar and plonked down on a stool. Good God, what was happening? He had never before been disappointed by a woman wanting nothing more than sex. Right now, he couldn’t deny the emotion
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surging through him. He wondered if it was all about Emma, wondered if he didn’t want to believe that about her. A voice in the back of his head dared him to rise to the challenge, encouraged him to use every trick in the book to make her fall in love with him. It goaded that she shouldn’t be allowed to get away with using him this way. He wanted to argue, remind his foolish pride he’d used women this way before, but he couldn’t escape the simple truth that every woman he’d slept with had known the score beforehand. It was no different with Emma. She’d known the score too. The difference lay squarely at Lenny’s feet. A hundred times over, he hadn’t wanted more. Just this once, maybe he did. “Hey, are you okay?” Her voice speared his heart while her hand on his arm burned like hot coals. Unable to find his voice, Lenny nodded. “Liar,” she whispered, snagging a fingertip under his chin and turning his face to hers. The instant her eyes met his, something sizzled between them. “What did Jordan say to you?” “N-nothing,” he stuttered. “What did he say to you?” She smiled ruefully. “Are you about ready to leave this joint?” Lenny swallowed. The thought of being alone with her all-too-perceptive intuition didn’t sit well in his gut. His silent meanderings left him raw and vulnerable. One hint of that and she’d be all over him, trying to find out in her sweet-as-pie manner and make it all better. Remaining silent, he stared at her with puppy-dog eyes and a confused expression. If she didn’t hate the idea of leaving him alone, she’d march right up to Jordan and give him a piece of her mind. “Come on,” she said softly, tugging on his hand until he stood. “Jordan’s got this place under control. We need to let off some steam.” In the car, she ignored the pair of charcoal eyes and the keen observation of her every move. It was unnerving, to say the least. Whatever had gone on between Lenny and Jordan caused a shift in the air. Something was different, changed. She just couldn’t pinpoint it. It drove her crazy that he didn’t say a word. What was going on in that gorgeous head of his? She so desperately wanted to know, and was suddenly gripped by the absolute need to know. If he wouldn’t talk, she’d make him open up. Somehow. Driving them to a nearby club, she knew she substituted physical gratification for profound conversation, understood she used dirty tactics to get him to communicate. None of it wrinkled her at all. With the car parked, she led him into the dimly lit hall packed with faceless strangers. He seemed moved to action and propelled her from behind toward the dance
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floor, his hands splayed firmly over the cheeks of her butt. He sure had a fascination with her behind, but she loved it. His hands shifted to her hips and then to her belly, keeping her turned away from him. When his hips moved and his hard crotch rubbed her behind, Emma opened herself to the rhythm of the music. Swaying her hips in time with his, she let her head rest against his shoulder and covered his large hands with hers. It was dangerous to be in public with this man. Her breasts tingled, her nipples pulled to tight bullets and rubbed against her blouse. She caught one guy ogling them and stared him down, made him turn away. But her attention returned to the physical reactions Lenny coaxed from her. Miraculously, he brought her to full arousal without using his hands or his tongue. It was wrong he possessed such power over her body, and oh so incredibly right. And when the beat changed and his hips switched from a side-to-side sway to a forward and backward thrust, Emma thought she might come on the dance floor— again. Protected by the volume of the music, she moaned and groaned with each provocative thrust. Her mind raced almost as fast as her heart, scheming a way for them to bring about each other’s release without getting caught. There was no effort required to think back to their first dance, when he’d slid his solid thigh between hers. She wanted him there, hard against her softness, the addictive way he touched her making her want to beg for more. She knew he could do it for her in an instant but she wanted so very much to return the favor. Scanning the boundaries of the club, she couldn’t see any dark alcoves or recesses into which they could sink. There was no second floor of offices, where they could hole up and give in to temptation. With the force of her pounding heart, Emma knew they’d never make it back to her house. “God you’re beautiful,” he whispered against her ear, stilling her heart. “Watching you tonight,” he sucked in a breath, “I had to stop myself from dragging you into your office and making love to you on your desk.” Emma gulped. Chuckling, Lenny pulled her tighter to him. His bulge felt heavy as it throbbed against her sensitive crease. “Can I tell you some of the things I want to do to you when we get home?” She nodded eagerly, her brain filing away his use of the word “home” for later. “Please do.” “First thing’s first,” he sounded like he was enjoying turning her on, “I’m going to peel your clothes off your body very, very slowly, until you’re standing completely naked for me.” He growled. “Just for me, babe.” Emma’s knees wobbled while liquid burned between her thighs. “And then?” “Oh then you’re going to do as you promised and go down on me. You still haven’t done that yet, remember?”
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Her eyes drifted shut at the image exploding into her mind, almost blowing her apart. Seeing herself go down on him, take his hard cock into her mouth to lick and suck, Emma shuddered violently. Lenny held her upright. She could almost taste him on her tongue, feel him in her hands. She rolled her head and nuzzled his neck with her tongue. “I remember,” she said with a voice so thick she almost choked. Shaking his head, Lenny turned her in his arms and held her against him. Emma snaked her arms around his neck and continued her nibbling, concentrating her efforts on the spot just behind his ear. A satisfying quake rippled through him. “Should we leave now?” he queried. “I’m hard as a rock and you can barely stand.” “No,” she moaned, needing to feel his hardness against hers without interruption. “Just dance with me.” The slow, low sinister laugh rumbling against her ear nudged her imagination along, giving her reason to close her eyes and enjoy the images. While the beat of the music morphed into a deep throbbing bass, Lenny commenced a sensual torture with his tongue that took her breath away. Though he didn’t descend below her shoulders, Emma felt every stroke and suck in the depths of her womanhood. She loved he wasn’t shy or timid in taking what he wanted. “Why can’t I control myself around you?” he demanded, coming up for air. “It’s like I have to have you right this instant or I will explode.” Emma let her lips drift into a teasing smile, not knowing how to respond to his flattering words. Rather, she pushed her hands through his silken hair and marveled at the gorgeous way it sifted through her fingers. “What exactly have you done to me?” he commanded, sounding breathless. Emma dropped her head back and shook it from side to side. “I didn’t do anything.” “Ha! I don’t believe you.” He nipped at her neck before his lips tangled with hers. “How’d you know we’d be so good together, Em?” Lifting her head, she probed the deep recesses of his eyes for some clue to explain the shift in Lenny. In the dim light, she found nothing. But the impatient tone of his voice alerted her that something very definite had shifted in Lenny. She blinked. “It’s called intuition, Lenny. I don’t know how I knew, I just knew.” He shook his head stubbornly. “No, there’s more. You had to have had some sort of hint, Em. Was there something I did in the past to give you some idea?” Emma stared blankly at him. She’d suspected that with time, he’d forgotten about their kiss. It had been a convenient conclusion for her because without it, she would have pondered over what could have been if he’d known and never acted. She would have driven herself crazy. She’d never given thought to how she’d feel if he said he didn’t remember.
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Now faced with the potential of Lenny having to admit it, Emma suddenly felt empty. Dammit, she wanted him to remember locking lips with her because if he didn’t, it said she wasn’t particularly memorable. Finally, she didn’t want to have to help him remember it either. To blurt out yeah, we kissed while you were drunk made her sound like an opportunist. It was Lenny who’d initiated the kiss, not her. Emma scowled inwardly, warring over whether to tell him or not. Neutralizing her expression, she shrugged but he didn’t take the bait. Lenny bent his head toward hers, resting his forehead against hers while his gaze searched and questioned. “I did something, didn’t I?” She shook her head but Lenny only tugged her closer, pulling her hard against him. The language his body spoke elicited a mix of desire and confusion. She could answer the call of desire but wanted to shy away from the confusion. “Emma,” he insisted. “You have to tell me.” “Why?” she asked, her voice barely audible to her. Whether or not Lenny heard her, he understood her question. “Come on,” he said, releasing her but guiding her by the hand. When they were out in the warm night air, Lenny directed her toward the parking lot. She wasn’t sure what to expect when he brought them to a halt and turned her around. “If I did something, you have to tell me.” “Why, Lenny?” He stared at her in exasperation. “Because if I hurt you, or took advantage of you— ” “No,” she said quickly, stepping to him and silencing him with her fingertip. “You did no such thing. It was just a kiss,” she explained, unable to withstand the pained expression in his eyes. “I kissed you?” She nodded, her bottom lip starting to tremble at the astounded look in his eyes. “Yes.” “When?” “Drinks one Friday night. We were talking about your sister.” “And I kissed you?” “You don’t have to sound so surprised,” she grumbled, feeling a tidal wave of disappointment begin to sweep her away. Pulling back, she turned. With her back to him, she could stay neutral but he’d want to see her face. “You were drunk, Lenny, so I get that you don’t remember it. It doesn’t matter.” “What do you mean?” “It meant nothing,” she lied, glad he couldn’t see her eyes. “It’s history.”
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“Emma,” Lenny was close, so close she could feel his warm breath on her neck. “Why didn’t you say anything about it?” She huffed, sarcasm swelling in her chest. “Mr. I-don’t-sleep-with-my-coworkers.” She turned and stared him down. “Do you honestly think I’d say something?” Lenny rocked back on his heels and sucked in his bottom lip. Chewing on it, he tried to read her mood but couldn’t for the life of him work her out. It didn’t help that his mind had been blown to smithereens by her admission. No, his gray matter felt distinctively like gray mush, unable to function in a coherent manner. He couldn’t string two words together if his life depended on it. He should feel ashamed, be angry with himself for breaking his own rules. But staring at Emma, with those big blue eyes tinged with a hint of vulnerability, Lenny couldn’t think beyond making it up to her. He’d been foolish enough to deny any attraction to her all those years ago, and he wasn’t about to repeat his mistake. Okay so he couldn’t actually remember kissing her, but he’d bet his life on it being one helluva kiss. He only needed to look as far as Emma to see that much, only needed to feel her touch to know she would’ve taken things further. She must have been the one to break off the kiss. Lenny had woken up often enough from a drunken stupor next to a female form to know that if she hadn’t, it would have gone further. Searching her eyes, he wanted to know every detail but she wasn’t sharing tonight. She pulled away and shoved so much distance between them he was dumbfounded. He wanted to march over to her, push her up against the car and remind her exactly how close they’d become over the last few days. Something in her eyes kept him stock-still. If it were anyone else he’d swear she was scared. Her eyes were large and round, her breath shallow and quick. Her hands twisted together in front of her belly nervously and when he peered at the base of her neck, he could see her racing heartbeat. “Emma?” “Look, I know I should have said something before about it,” she babbled. “But it just didn’t seem like the kind of thing you chat about over coffee. And it just seemed so trivial, that I…” Her voice trailed off when her eyes met his. She was afraid. Afraid of what? “I kissed you,” he said. “Right? Not the other way around?” She nodded. “I didn’t want to say that. It sounds so petty.” An unsure smile touched her lips. “I didn’t want you thinking I took advantage.” Laughter bubbled out of him, bringing with it enormous relief. This time, he did walk over to her. Gripping her by the shoulders, he stared down into her lovely face. “Honey, if I was drunk that night, I would have kissed you. That’s the kind of guy I can be.” And boy did it suck having to admit it.
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Emma’s warm palm on his cheek stilled his self-deprecating thoughts. “Don’t,” she said softly. “Don’t put yourself down, Lenny.” “It’s true,” he insisted, his voice cracking. “And you know it. I’m the guy who gets drunk, picks up a girl, and then grimaces when he wakes up to face reality the next morning. You’ve seen how I am, Em.” “Maybe,” she conceded, placing another warm palm against his other cheek. Her body rested against his, those firm round breasts igniting a fire in his chest. “But the difference is, I know you, Lenny. I know you’re an honorable man. So what if you won’t commit? Everyone has their faults.” He frowned. “And what’s yours, Em?” The playfulness vanished when she pushed herself away and started walking to the car. Stunned, Lenny watched her go for a beat before his legs finally got going. Running, he caught her in three strides and spun her around to face him. He never expected to see red eyes or flushed cheeks. She tried to squirm out of his hold but he stubbornly refused to let her go. “Emma, please.” After a few more seconds of struggling in vain, she sagged against him and shook her head. “No, Lenny. You’re not turning this back on me.” “I want to know,” he demanded. “What do you think your faults are?” Silent seconds pounded while she stared at him, her expression hard and cold. He’d never seen her like this, afraid and dispassionate. He wanted her to open up to him, let him in so he could help. The significance of the moment wasn’t lost on Lenny, but he pushed aside his own milestone in favor of giving Emma everything he had. Even if it was for one brief moment. Feeling her hands at his chest, he looked down to see her grab the edges of his shirt and rip the garment open. Buttons popped and flew off but it was her skin on his that held his attention. When she pressed one hand to the scar on his chest and the other to the bullet wound, his eyes immediately found hers again. “These are my fault,” she growled in a strangled voice. “I should have stopped this from happening. You nearly died because I couldn’t do my job, Lenny. That’s my fault.” Lenny swallowed at the ferocity in her voice. She blamed herself for the shooting? But how? He struggled to comprehend what she witnessed that night, tried to put himself in her shoes. Good God, he thought as his heart stammered in his chest. Of course she blamed herself. She was a rookie, a tough talking, all-knowing newbie who’d scored top of her class. It was a given she would assume responsibility purely because it was expected the dux of the class would do better than everyone else. How could he have missed that? In a moment of blinding reality, it hit him that she’d left the force because she believed she’d failed. Failed him, herself and the job. She probably thought other cops questioned her ability, wondered if she would be able to watch her partner’s back.
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For the first time, he felt as if he could read her every thought and the sadness threatened to topple him. He wished he hadn’t been so consumed with his own pity, wished he could’ve seen what was happening to his partner, to his friend. While grief gripped his heart, Lenny pulled her into his arms and locked her in the tightest of embraces.
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Chapter Seven Unable to sleep, Lenny left his darkened room in silence. On his way to the living room, he glanced up the stairs but there was no sign of Emma. All the lights were off and he heard no movement. She must’ve fallen asleep, he decided, moving to stand at the front window. The street lights twinkled in the night, though he really couldn’t see very much. But he figured standing and doing was much better than tossing and turning. His mind spun like a record, incessantly skipping over the same scratch. Nothing he did changed the way his heart lurched every time he allowed Emma’s guilt to invade his mind. It was wrong for her to blame herself for that night but he wouldn’t be able to change her mind. Not after the years of silence reinforced the misconception. He’d never called her because he didn’t want to burden her, yet she’d believed he held her partly responsible. She’d believed he was disappointed in her, thought she’d failed and that he didn’t want to talk to her. Scrubbing a hand over his face, Lenny sucked in a deep breath. The only thing he smelled was Emma. Her scent permeated everything in the house and while he couldn’t get enough of it, he needed a distraction. Thinking about how broken up she’d been left him miserable. All because he thought he knew better, that he was doing the right thing. When he put her to bed tonight, he didn’t miss the way she pulled away from him. She rolled away, curled into a ball and stayed deafeningly silent when he wished her goodnight. Telling her he never blamed her seemed moot. She wasn’t listening. Lenny glanced back toward the stairs. He didn’t expect to see her there. All the same, sadness struck his chest when the empty space confirmed her absence. How he longed for those slender arms to be wrapped around him. Or those shapely legs to be tangled with his. Lenny swallowed, thinking of those bountiful breasts pushed up against his chest or into his hands. He liked the chemistry they shared, the intimate physical nature that came so easily and felt so incredibly perfect. Better still, he wanted her eyes on him, all over him. Feeling totally exposed under a woman’s scrutinizing gaze had never felt so good. But the fact that he missed her physical presence paled in comparison to the way he missed her voice, her sassy attitude. He missed the close bond they shared, the effortlessness in opening up to Emma that had always been there. It was those things he wanted back.
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He shook his head at the desperation streaking through him. There was no point grumbling over it now. He’d get nothing done until the morning. He needed to get some sleep and so he turned and made his way out of the living room. At the bottom of the stairs, he steered right and climbed the narrow staircase mindlessly. It wasn’t until he got to the top he knew he’d made an error but he didn’t stop. He had to see her before he could go back to bed, had to make sure she was okay. At the door to her bedroom, he leaned against the doorjamb and peered into the semi-darkness. The curtains allowed in enough moonlight for him to make out her sleeping shape. He smiled, glad she could find some rest in sleep when he couldn’t. Maybe then she’d be ready to talk in the morning. Mollified, Lenny pushed away from the doorjamb to go to bed when she shifted under the sheets. His mind took the vision of her legs moving and turned it into the most alluring show, drawing him into the room and toward the bed. In her sleep, Emma mumbled, her words a jumbled mess of sounds that coaxed him closer. It wasn’t until he’d picked up the corner of the blankets that he paused and wondered about the merit of his actions. A second later, he justified them in his head and climbed into the bed. Sliding behind her, he spooned her body and wrapped his arms around her. Emma wriggled, seeming to snuggle deeper into his embrace. It brought a smile to his face, brought his lips to her bare shoulder and encouraged his tongue to taste her skin. Still unable to sleep, he simply watched her, taking in the slow rhythmic breathing, the warm comfy smell of the air around them and the perfect fit of gorgeous curves against him. Lenny had no idea what time it was, just that he was exactly where he was meant to be. The knowledge dulled the crazy thoughts doing loop-de-loops in his brain, allowing him to close his eyes. He took deep breaths of her scent and hugged her tighter. “Lenny?” Her sleepy voice brought his eyes open and his head up. “Hush,” he whispered. “Go back to sleep.” Under the blankets, her hand found his. The contact brought her more fully awake. He’d come to her in the still of the night. Emma rolled her head and stared up at his shadow. She thought she’d screwed everything up, revealing stupid secrets. “Why are you here?” she asked, glad for his presence. The palm of his free hand cupped her face gently. “I needed to make sure you were okay, Em. I was worried.” Curious, she rolled to her back and set a hand against his chest. She found the scar without trying and absently rubbed her thumb over it. “Worried?” The shadow of Lenny nodded. “Worried,” he repeated without explanation. “Very worried.”
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His lips found hers, the moist heat familiar and welcoming. Nibbling along her bottom lip, he dipped his tongue into the corner of her mouth. Her own tongue flicked to catch it but only grazed it. “Worried about what?” “You,” he murmured, trailing kisses down her jaw. “Me.” The kisses turned northward until he reached her eyes. Letting them drift shut, Emma smiled when his lips caressed each eyelid. “Us.” Her breath whooshed out with his last word. Us. He said it like he meant it. “Lenny?” Reaching out, he found the switch to the lamp and pulled back. She noticed the tiredness in his eyes. He hadn’t slept. “I never understood how much that night affected you,” he said, staring straight into her soul. “I don’t think I ever gave it thought, Em. I’m sorry.” Her thumb over his scar stilled on the smooth pink skin. “You don’t have to be sorry, Lenny.” “Yes.” He nodded vigorously. “I do. I was so wrapped up in the crappy state of my life that I couldn’t even see what you were going through. I should have. You were always there for me and I didn’t get it.” Warmed by his words, Emma reached up to lay a kiss on his lips but the instant she made contact, a roaring inferno of need erupted. Lenny must have felt it too because his kiss deepened. Hungry for more, Emma feasted on his willing mouth, drank from him as if her life depended on it. He rolled her to him and lifted her knee onto his hip. When his fingers brushed over the fire between her thighs, he broke the kiss and peered into her eyes. “Promise me we will always be friends, Em.” “Yes,” she hissed. “Always, Lenny.” Leaning over her, he snapped the lamp off, returning them to the semi-dark. She was glad his hands found her hips again and helped him drag off her underwear. With her knee on his hip once more, she encouraged his hands south, needing him to touch her. Their synchronized breathing filled the dark. His heart thundered against the solid wall of his chest and his lips and tongue continued to devour her. When his fingers reached her inner thigh, Emma wrapped her arms around his neck and opened her legs further for him. She loved the way he stroked her pussy. The way his strong, slender fingers worked her in a circular motion barely satisfying the need building within her. And when he fingered her entrance, she nearly burst out of her skin. While her mouth watered for his taste, her southern parts watered for his hardness. “You’re so wet,” he whispered against her lips. “I need you,” she pleaded. “Inside me.”
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His fingers weren’t enough. She needed more. When he pushed in deep, her body reacted without hesitation. Every muscle pulled tight, heat roared through her, melting her. She could feel him hard against her leg but dared not let go. Letting go of his neck meant giving in to the climax nudging at her control. “Lenny,” she cried out, wanting to demand that he shuck his briefs and hurry up. He seemed determined to push her over the edge but she wanted him to come with her. “Emma.” He panted at her ear. “Oh God, Emma.” Her hips bucked violently while her heart hammered madly. Every neuron in her brain was trained on those powerful fingers inside her as they thrust in and out, her wetness only amplifying the intense pleasure snaking through every glorious inch of her body. “Give in,” he demanded. “Let go and enjoy it.” “No,” she moaned. “Come with me, Lenny.” Her eyes connected with his and she saw he understood what she meant. “I want to feel you inside me,” she groaned as her muscles gripped his fingers. “How?” “Hard.” The very thought tested her control. “Fast.” She saw his control snap. He withdrew his fingers and kissed her long and hungrily. Her breasts in his hands screamed at the slickness he spread over them while her nether lips pounded for more. Pushing him back, she pulled his briefs down his thighs and straddled him. She tried to ignore the deep satisfaction he brought her tingling nipples and reached across to the bedside table to rummage for a condom. With the protection in hand, she tore open the foil packet and covered him before impaling herself on his stiff rod. Her entire body blossomed at his intimate touch. He was everywhere all at once, hands and lips, rolling her onto her back to pump into her just the way she’d demanded, hard and fast. Her chest squeezed so tight she couldn’t breathe until his mouth was on hers, breathing life back into her and bringing her eyes to his. So desperate was their lovemaking that Emma called out his name with each glorious thrust. Her back arched, lifting her chest and pushing her breasts to his mouth. The suckling sounds spun her mind while the way his tongue rolled her tight nipple tore a cry from her lips. He pulled back to sit on his knees, his hands lifting her hips off the bed. Suspended, she received every powerful plunge deeper into her body. And then, all of a sudden, Lenny pushed into her deeply and stayed there. His cocked throbbed inside her while the fingers of one hand found her clit. The first touch sent a zing throughout her body, the second caused her cunt to crush against him, and the third made her see stars. When the orgasm started and her muscles pulsed, alternating between contraction and relaxation, he resumed his deep strokes. Slow at first, he waited for her hips to shake and buck before slamming in and out of her.
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How he prolonged her orgasm, she didn’t know. She was just glad when he lost control and joined her. They crashed back to the bed, where Emma held him with her arms and legs, determined not to let him go. “Emma,” he whispered, his lips finding hers while his hips gently stroked her. “Oh, Emma.” She got the distinct impression that if he could eat her up, he would. The warmth and adoration in his eyes kept her wet for him, let him slide inside her with ease. He touched her face, the contact loving and tender, his eyes caressing her in an unexpected show of emotion that stilled her heart. “Don’t stop,” she urged. He shook his head. “I have to, Em.” He chuffed. “I can’t keep up with you, but wait,” he winked, “I have an idea.” With that, he disappeared below the bed sheets and before she could utter a word in protest, his mouth clamped onto her. His skilled tongue laved at her swollen lips, swirled at her entrance and then toyed with her clit. Her shaky muscles gave a squeeze, her heart thumped and her breath hitched. Exhausted, she shouldn’t have been able to go on and yet Lenny encouraged her body to defy the laws of reason. Heat streaked through her, moisture soaked her loins and the very beginnings of another orgasm took a stranglehold on her. He was going to knock her out at this rate, she thought with a deliciously wicked grin. Somehow, being knocked unconscious by Lenny’s erotic manipulations didn’t sound too bad. So wrapped up in the sensations shooting through her, she almost missed his call. When she looked under the blankets, he grinned up at her. “Roll over.” On her hands and knees, she could only hold her breath at the delights his tongue inflicted on her. With her ass in the air, stroked by the warm night air, she felt exceptionally wanton and wild. It wasn’t until he stood up on his knees and plunged into her from behind that she swore the earth had moved under them. Lenny gripped her hips and rocked her back and forward, his hardness reaching her in new places. He spread her cheeks apart and lightly traced a finger down the crease, sending a scandalous shock of fervent delight up her spine. The sensation drove her hips to buck and rear wildly, and the orgasm rocketed into full force. Emma bellowed as she bore down on him. One more thrust of his cock sent her erratic heart rate off the scale. She was amazed the organ didn’t bounce out through her mouth and do a jitterbug on the bed. Thoroughly worn out, they fell to the bed in a tangle of arms and legs. Lenny drew the blankets up to cocoon them in the heat pouring off their bodies while he stroked her back. It was the last thing she remembered before she fell headlong into the deepest sleep.
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***** Lenny woke with a start, sitting bolt upright in bed. His heart pounded wildly, his skin covered in a fine film of sweat, and inexplicable fear gripped him from head to toe. Emma had been in great danger in his dream, the perp’s gun trained on her unsuspecting body. Lenny had chased, running like mad to save her. His legs pumped madly but he hadn’t been able to close the gap. Knowing he needed to reach them, he’d been consumed by frustration at not getting anywhere. He’d called out but to no avail. She couldn’t hear him, just kept on doing her thing and paying no attention to the gunman closing in on her. The dream had seemed so real, like he could’ve reached out and touched the gunwielding criminal in the flesh. And when the gun went off with a deafening blast, Lenny had been catapulted back into the land of the living. Searching the bed, he found her gone. The house around him sat in a death-like silence, fuelling his fear something happened through the night. Turning, he found a folded note propped on the bedside table, his name scrawled in Emma’s loopy style of writing. Snatching it up, he rubbed his eyes before reading the paper— Down at the beach, back soon. Luv, Em. A shaky sigh rippled through him and he could breathe again. A stab of jealousy pinged in his gut. She hadn’t woken him to go with her. Lenny tried to dismiss it, tried to reason he was being possessive and illogical but it didn’t work. Had she called him out of the nightmare to ask if he’d go surfing, he wouldn’t have hesitated. Flopping back on the bed, Lenny shook his head at his irrational thoughts. Since when did he care if a woman left him? The sad truth was he’d never worried about that. Hell, there were times when he’d been particularly happy waking up alone, sated and free. A strange sense of loss encroached upon his heart. He wanted Emma to still be here, to wake him with slow tender kisses. For the first time, he yearned to wake up to the charming smile of the woman he’d made deep, passionate love to. The odd sensation rocked Lenny’s ideas of what he thought he wanted and moved him to kick off the covers. Stalking into the bathroom, he brooded at the changes going on inside him. First he wanted her to want more from him, and now he wanted to wake up next to her? What next, he wondered with trepidation, almost scared to give his heart and mind permission to answer the question. Running a scalding hot shower, Lenny scrubbed at his skin, shutting down any more thoughts of Emma. It wasn’t until he got out that he noticed he’d used her soap. The fragrance filled his every thought with her, tickled his nose with her scent, and gave his imagination a rude poke. This was supposed to be a short-term fling, a no-strings attached physical affair. Sure he’d played with the idea of seducing her and making her fall in love with him,
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but he worried he’d fallen into his own trap. Toweling off, he tried to pinpoint exactly what it was about Emma that rattled him so. It was obvious she was sexy as hell. Making love to her was truly a self-serving act, for he got as much—if not more—joy out of it as he could give. And he admired her sassy, brass-balls attitude to her work. The respect and loyalty of her crew were testament to her credibility. That in itself was a turn-on for Lenny. Despite all of those wonderful things, he couldn’t track down the exact reason he felt so taken by her. Very few women held his attention for more than a day or two, and yet she had him hook, line and sinker. It had been a whole week, yet he suspected even six months with the woman wasn’t going to be enough. Shaken, Lenny secured the towel about his hips and sat on the edge of the tub. Resting his head in his hands, he wondered what the hell was going on. He needed to talk to Rocket, or even his baby sister Robyn, but no way was he ruining their honeymoon with his out of character crisis. Searching through his memory banks, he tried to recall what steps he’d taken the last time he found himself in too deep with a woman. Shuffling through the memories, he sighed in resignation. It was no use, he was searching in vain. He’d never felt this way, never been so completely attracted to a woman in his life. He sighed aloud. Oh boy, this is going to be one helluva ride. The equal mix of nervousness and burgeoning hope made his stomach turn queasy.
***** Dropping down on the sand, Emma took deep gulps of cool morning air. The sand beneath her shifted to accommodate her curves. She loved an early workout, especially the firefighter’s boot camp sessions with Joe Charles. The local firefighter had designed an obstacle course, with true-to-life fireman’s obstacles. On Saturday mornings, he opened it up to the general public. She’d been coming for almost eight weeks now and every time felt completely buggered by the end of the session. The deep, familiar laugh of Joe neared, bringing her eyes open. She squinted against the sun and smiled. “I’m exhausted, Joe.” She sighed. “You manage to do it every time.” He smiled and squatted beside her. “You’re welcome, little lady.” Sitting up, Emma brushed sand off her arms. “How are you, anyway?” He nodded. “Good as usual.” He grinned suggestively. “I haven’t seen you around much lately. And when I do, you’re with that handsome fellow.” Emma chuckled. It was true, since Lenny had taken up residence in her bed, she hadn’t gotten out as much as usual. “He’s an old friend,” she said casually, wishing her heart would settle. “From Australia. Just visiting while on business.” “Sure,” he nodded, completely unconvinced. “I see.”
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“It’s not like that,” she lied, knowing all too well it was exactly the way he was thinking. Joe shrugged. “Your call but you take care, you hear? And let me know if there’s anything I can do, okay?” Emma smiled and patted his bulky biceps. “I can take care of myself, Joe. No need to worry.” Pushing up from the sand, Emma collected her things and made her way from the beach, up the long hill to her home. The whole way her heart galloped along at an elevated rate while she wondered how Lenny would greet her. Something changed between them last night, resulting in an earth-shattering connection she never wanted to end. Her plan all along had been to seduce him, take him into her bed and snag his heart before dumping him cold. Harsh as it may have sounded, she’d plotted her revenge for four years but the reality of the situation slapped her in the face. Now she had him, she didn’t want to let him go. When he told her he was the guy who got drunk and slept with any female on two legs, it hadn’t been news to her. She’d known from witnessing his behavior firsthand that he wasn’t the kind of guy who stuck around. When he had his fill, he left. Her plan had been to turn that back on him. She’d never counted on the experience of being with him feeling so damn right. Even her fantasies paled in comparison to the moving experience they’d shared during the night. It dawned on her that sending him on his way was going to do more damage to her than it would to Lenny. Reaching her house, Emma paused and stared up at the white, two story construction. He’d said it suited her, though she wasn’t quite sure what he meant. How could a white clapboard house match her? Perhaps he meant it was a quaint house, with clean lines and an outward appearance of openness. Or maybe not. She shrugged and followed the path to the front door. It swung inward when she neared, revealing a smiling Lenny complete with apron and breakfast. “Ah. I see you’ve figured out how to cook without burning the house down.” He harrumphed before dragging her inside and pulling her against him. The kiss he set on her lips seared her insides. “If I remember,” he growled playfully. “You distracted me.” “Mmmm,” she hummed, kicking the door closed. “And what an incredible distraction it was.” He laughed and let her go, handing her the plate of scrambled eggs on toast. “You said it, babe.” Following him through to the kitchen, relief flooded her insides. Why had she thought it would be different between them? He seemed happy and carefree, as if last night had been purely about physical need and nothing else. She knew better, his claim
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of being worried and demand for them to remain friends told her quite clearly he’d come to her bed for more than just sex. “Did you sleep well?” she asked, hoeing into her breakfast with vigor. “Sure did. A little weird to wake up alone in your bed though.” “Sorry. You looked so calm and peaceful, I didn’t want to disturb you.” “Where’d you go?” he asked, his voice casual but his shoulders tight with tension. “For a workout,” she explained. “It’s like boot camp on the beach.” He stared at her, his face a study in skepticism. “Boot camp?” She nodded. “Run by a local fireman. You should try it.” Lenny only chuckled and went back to the dishes. “Sure, you just let me know next time.” Emma stilled. He sounded hurt, like he’d never been left alone by a woman before. The sound grabbed at her, pulling her out of her chair and over to him. Pressing against his back, she snaked her arms around his waist and hugged him tight, excruciatingly aware that her plan had succeeded beyond her wildest dreams. He was hooked and she was going to make the most of it. Smoothing her hands up and down his chest, she trailed a line of butterfly kisses across his bare shoulders. His chest slowly filled out as his hands covered hers and held still. “You smell like me,” she hummed, to which he burst out laughing and turned to face her. “What’s so funny?” “I accidentally used your soap,” he explained, securing her hands against his chest. “I should have another shower.” Emma wriggled her eyebrows. His face grew puzzled until she tugged him toward the downstairs bathroom. Once inside the cramped room, he wasted no time stripping her bare. He whistled as he took a small step backward and ran his eyes over her body. “You are one spunky lady, do you know that?” “Flattery,” she mused, “will get you everywhere.” He smiled and turned on the shower taps. With the water heating, he removed the apron and his pajama bottoms. His hard cock caught her attention in an instant, arousing her further and bringing her closer. “Em,” he warned as she took hold of him. Together, they stepped into the tiny shower cubicle and, with the water rinsing off her sweat, she stroked him. “Oh God.” He threw his head back, water cascading over his face as she firmed her grip and increased the pace. She loved the effect she had on him. When his knees buckled and he dropped to the floor, she went with him and held him while he caught his breath. Under the running water, his hands found the curve of her hips as his mouth found hers. The man could kiss oh so well. With every sweep of his tongue, her heart boomed in her chest. The hunger and raw, animalistic need burned right through to her womb.
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As flaming heat licked at her insides, Lenny’s hands lifted her until she was standing. Before she could protest, he was there, between her legs, driving her wild. Her strength threatened to give out and she braced against the walls of the shower. His relentless manipulations with his tongue on her entrance left her out of breath but wanting more. And more she got. When he slipped two fingers inside and stroked her, Emma lost control. Air erupted from her lungs as her muscles contracted, gripping Lenny and threatening to steal her consciousness. Screaming her satisfaction, Emma collapsed against him but he clearly wasn’t finished. His lips suckled on each of her distended, sensitive nipples and he pulled her hips against his hard cock. Grinding against her, he fanned the flames and the inferno roared back into life. She needed him inside her but they had no protection. Wishing there was some other way, she gently slowed him and brought his head up in her hands. “Lenny,” she warned. “We can’t.” “Like hell,” he grunted, kissing her hard and heavy. “Turn off the shower.” She did. “Now hold on.” She did. He stood, lifting her out of the shower and carrying her back to his room where he located a condom and protected them before driving into her. Still standing, he held her hips steady while he rocked in and out of her. She held on, listening to his labored breathing and intermittent grunts and moans and marveling at his superhuman strength. When she felt him shake, she could only hang on as he fell back on the bed, leaving her on top. She took control and turned around, straddling his groin with her back to him. Sliding back onto him, she smiled knowing he had an uninterrupted view of her ass. His fascination with her bottom seemed endless as his hands stroked and kneaded, his fingers gliding provocatively between the cheeks to arouse her further. When he playfully slapped one cheek, she yelped at the fantastic zing and then groaned as it turned deeper. As if struck by an electrical charge, her hips danced to a beat of their own. She felt the wetness between them, heard the gentle slap of his balls against her swollen flesh and tumbled headlong into another orgasm. Emma didn’t hold back, calling out, screaming at the mind-blowing sensation filling her body. Her head spun, her ears pinged and stars assaulted her eyes. It was never supposed to be this good. She was supposed to be able to walk away. With one week left, she had to find a way to detangle herself from Lenny, had to find a way to stop the craving deep inside she felt for him. She didn’t know if she could.
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Chapter Eight With just two days until opening night, the luxury of spending her days with Lenny disappeared. Emma was holed up in the control room with Jordan while Lenny ran the crowd control staff through their paces. The club was running well, every piece falling into place nicely. No more unfortunate accidents befell them while they prepped for the big event. It was on Thursday afternoon, a little over twenty-four hours to zero hour, that Emma found herself watching Mystique’s final rehearsal. The word around town was that the Air Lounge would be hopping for weeks to come. But it was the rumors surrounding Friday night’s opening that set Emma’s nerves jumping in anticipation. Clearly their publicity had worked. They were suddenly inundated with phone requests to be placed on the guest list. At the rate the phones were running, it was going to be a packed house every night for four weeks. Emma smiled, sitting in the shadows at the back of the club while the band plowed through three heart-thumping songs. When the women broke, four of them headed for the bar. Charlie, drummer extraordinaire, veered in Emma’s direction. “You guys are awesome.” Emma grinned when the rock chick pulled up a chair. Sweat glistened on her forehead, her cheeks were flushed and her eyes danced with joy. “Thanks, Emma. This place isn’t too bad. I’m glad your boss came to his senses and called us.” Emma narrowed her eyes. “What do you mean?” Charlie grunted, though the sound wasn’t unpleasant. “Mr. Know-It-All, Rocket, enticed Tantaliser to play at the Melbourne club not so long ago.” Charlie shook her head. “If there was ever a better way to inflate Nik St. Eve’s already supersized ego, I can’t think of it.” Understanding dawned on Emma, bringing with it a smile. “So, you and Nik…?” “Nothing going on there, love,” Charlie declared, her words too clipped and her answer a little too quick for Emma’s curiosity. “The man is a sexist pig.” Sipping her glass of iced water, Emma nodded. “I see, but let me guess, he can kiss, right?” Charlie’s head jerked back. “Kiss? Whatever gave you that idea?” Chuckling, Emma leaned forward and touched Charlie’s arm gently. “Come on, your secret is safe with me, Charlie. What was it like?” Charlie grinned. “Safe or not, my secret’s coming with me to the grave.” Feigning surprise, Emma widened her eyes. “That good, huh?”
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Charlie only laughed loud and hard before rising from her chair. She took two steps back toward the rest of the band before looking back over her shoulder. “Better than good, Emma.” Watching the hard-as-nails Charlie Brown strut away, Emma could only shake her head at the stubborn rockers. There was Charlie, denying her attraction emphatically while Nik was publicly goading her at every turn. The pair was destined for a red-hot affair, the kind where being a fly on the wall was probably a heart attack waiting to happen. In the subsequent quiet, Emma stood and made her way up the stairs to her office. She found Jordan sitting on the edge of her desk, scanning the already enormous guest list. “Comfortable?” She smiled as she past by him. “Yeah.” He nodded without looking up. “How’re things going with lover boy?” Ignoring the question, Emma sat in her decadent leather chair and stared across at him. “Rocket will be arriving tomorrow morning,” she informed him. “His jet lands at LAX at ten. Can you pick him up for me?” Finally, Jordan did look up. “Planning on a sleep in, are we?” She was planning on much more than that but she wasn’t about to tell Jordan the details. It had dawned on her that tonight was her last night alone with Lenny. She didn’t want interruptions, be they in the form of Jordan or anyone else. Rather than worry, Emma only smiled sweetly. “The surf report sounds good for tomorrow. I thought I’d catch a few waves before coming in. That’s all.” He laughed in his I-know-more-than-you’re-telling-me laugh and shook his head in disbelief. “Sure. You just make sure the boss doesn’t suspect there’s anything going on between you and Lenny.” Oh she didn’t have to worry about that. Lenny’s neurotic need to keep work and pleasure separate would see to that. “Don’t worry your pretty little head over it, okay? Rocket won’t know anything, unless you let something slip.” She stood and glided by him with a wicked smile. “And you won’t accidentally tell him anything, now will you, Jordie?” She giggled with fake innocence. “Not if you know what’s good for you.” Sweeping out of her office without another word, Emma relished teasing him. Because they were just friends he had no recourse to take offence. Though with Jordan, you never could tell. Passing the control room, she was surprised when a hand snagged hers and dragged her into the room. She heard the door slam shut moments before Lenny’s body directed hers toward the desk. His hungry lips began devouring her before she could speak, while his hands molded to the curves of her hips and ignited her senses. “Lenny.” She giggled and held him at bay. She was going to tell him this was neither the place nor the time. The desire in his eyes overpowered her thought processes, numbing her mind while inflaming her body. “Did you lock the door?”
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He grinned and nodded, capturing her lips again while fitting his hard bulge between her thighs. “Time’s running out,” he mumbled against her lips. “We need to make the most of it.” Nodding, Emma slipped her hand down the front of his jeans and took a hold of him. He stilled, his forehead resting against hers as his heavy breathing soaked her skin with his masculine scent. Using her free hand, she unzipped and unbuttoned, freeing his hard length. She still hadn’t fulfilled her promise to go down on him and given the layers of clothing she had on, she figured now was as good a time as any to deliver. Holding him firmly, she slowly stroked her hand up and down his shaft. The motion elicited a greedy growl from his lips. His eyes glazed over and dots of perspiration appeared on his upper lip. Dragging her tongue across the moistened lip, she grinned and lowered herself. “Emma,” he warned but quieted when she licked the small bead of essence that seeped out of him. “Oh.” Taking him fully into her mouth, she felt him grow thicker as she used her tongue to lick and tease. With one hand on his cock and one hand cupping his balls, she smoothed her lips up and down his length. When he was coated with their mixed lubricant, she increased her speed, sucking him harder with each stroke. Incomprehensible sounds erupted above her while strong fingertips massaged her scalp. His hips rocked in time with her bobbing head until he groaned long and low, stilled and exploded in her mouth. She swallowed the liquid that poured out of him, taking his taste deep into her being and committing it to memory for the long, lonely nights she’d endure when he was gone. The sudden morose thought propelled her back to the reality that on Saturday, he was going to fly out of the country and her life. She turned away, unexpectedly moved to tears while he tucked himself back into his pants. His hands returned to her hair and continued their sensual kneading, further compounding her misery. “Emma?” She shook her head, wiped her mouth and refused to look up. Confused by her swift change in mood, Lenny gripped her upper arms and brought her to her feet. She blinked and tried to turn away, but he held her face and waited until she came around. The sadness in her eyes tugged at his heart. “What is it?” he asked, wondering if the most wondrous blowjob of his life had stolen her happiness. “Emma, please.” She sucked in a breath and tried to smile. The faked pleasure shocked him. “Did I hurt you?” “No.” She blinked. “You didn’t do anything wrong, Lenny.” She flung her arms around his neck, kissed his ear and said, “That was incredible.” Pulling her tight to him, he rubbed his hands over her back. All the while, the cogs of his brain spun at a blistering speed to figure out what had happened to make her so
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sad. And she was sad, there was no doubting it. He heard it in her trembling breath, felt it in the desperation of her hug. Asking her again would only trigger her stubbornness. If she thought he was prying, she’d shut him down and he’d never understand. Rather than force the issue, he dropped down to the chair behind him, pulling her with him. Tucked into his lap, she nuzzled his neck with loving licks and kisses. Such a contrast to the look he’d just seen in her eyes. After so many nights of creative and adventurous sexcapades, and so many days of close bonding, he’d never felt such an intimate link with another person. To share the cozy, almost private, relationship with Emma gave his immovable decision to never settle down an indignant shove. Was this what it was like to really love another human being? Was the openness he shared with Emma the kind that led to ever after? Lenny didn’t know the answers to either of the questions but he was willing to find out. Stroking her back softly, Lenny rued the words he’d spoken before succumbing to the compelling attractive forces throwing them together. He wished he could take them back, give them a window through which they could pursue this connection. He wasn’t the kind of guy who went back on his word and he wasn’t about to start reneging on promises now. He’d pledged to indulge a physical affair until he flew out of the country. The closer the deadline drew, the worse he felt. They had two days to fulfill every sensual desire, every erotic wish and he didn’t want to waste any more time than necessary at the club. “Ready to go home?” he asked. Emma nodded and made to move but he stopped her, turning her forlorn face to his. “Are you okay?” “Yes.” “And you’re sure I didn’t hurt you?” She smiled, the emotion genuine this time. “I’m sure, Lenny. Do you mind if we make a stop before getting home? I need some paint supplies.” Nodding, Lenny held her sweet face in his palms and kissed her lips with all the affection clogging his heart. He took his time to trace every curve, every recess, every taste she offered and when he pulled back, she sighed in contentment. “Come on,” she urged, pushing up to her feet and holding out her hand for him. Lenny took it and let her guide him out of the club to the four-wheel drive. He stayed silent while she drove the usual route to Manhattan Beach. Once there, she pulled into the parking lot of a huge warehouse. It was a paint and art supply store and he imagined aisles upon aisles of art and craft supplies to boggle the eye. He never got to see inside though, for she took off and left him in the car. Obviously she wanted to collect her items alone, and given the way she’d kept her talent hidden all these years, he wasn’t surprised. Nor was he surprised when she returned minutes later with a box she stored out of sight in the back of the car.
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Emma said nothing of her purchase when she climbed behind the wheel and started the car. Curiously, Lenny felt his heart quicken with the urge to know what was in the box. The joy on her face left him wondering if the items in the box had something to do with him. At her house, Lenny busied himself with preparing an evening meal while Emma disappeared upstairs for a while. His curiosity bloomed at her absence, and when she returned for dinner, he felt just about ready to bust. He toyed with the idea of grilling her but the twinkle of mischief in Emma’s eyes held his interrogation thoughts at bay. Though if she didn’t come clean soon, he really was going to have to torture her until she gave in. “Hungry?” She nodded, her new outfit catching his eye. “You changed,” he noted, eyeing the free flowing dress. “That color looks good on you.” His compliments drew an almost shy smile from her but he wasn’t fishing for a reward. She really did look stunning in the sky blue dress. So far he’d only seen her in earthy browns, bold black and stunning white. “Thanks,” she said softly, pressing a warm kiss to his cheek. “I’m starved, by the way.” He winked. “For food, or me?” She chuckled and whirled away. “Both and you know it.” Throughout the meal, Lenny felt anticipation grow inside him. He sensed she had something completely original, something very Emma, in store for him and he struggled to wait out the time. Of course if she had no such plans, he would look silly if he commented. So he stayed quiet and watched her eat her spaghetti, amazed at how delicate she managed to look. With the last remnants on his plate, Lenny spun the long pasta around his fork tines and shoveled the lot into his mouth. Like he did when he was a kid, he slurped up the loose pasta, inadvertently flicking sauce onto his chin. Chuckling, he was about to wipe it away when Emma clucked her tongue, leaned across the table and licked off the tomato sauce. The move ignited his groin and when she stood to clear the table, he only shook his head. “Leave it,” he ordered in a deep, thick voice and stood. “You and I need some time together.” Her carefree laugh filled the air but came to an abrupt halt when he dragged her to him and plundered her tasty mouth. Whatever she had planned had better involve lots of hot, sweaty sex. He’d become a slave to his body, all because of Emma and damn the sensation was delicious. His roaming hands found the addictive curve of her ass and kneaded demandingly, lifting her off the floor. He loved the feel of her weight in his hands as his mind
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returned to the morning they’d given in to their desires right here in the kitchen. Never before had the kitchen seemed like an erotic place, and never again would he be able to enter one without thinking about Emma. Her moans at his ear served to give him the biggest hard-on he’d ever experienced, and he thrust it against her belly. “This is what you do to me,” he growled. “Tell me what I do to you.” Her gasp was all he needed. Rather than let her say the words, he greedily feasted on her mouth. Any such words were bound to drive him over the edge but then, everything about Emma propelled him in that direction all too quick. With her hands on his cheeks, she tore her lips away and stared into his eyes. “You make me hot all over,” she ground out, her panting breath punctuating her words ever so sexily. “Inside and out,” she groaned, stealing a voracious kiss. “And wet,” she hummed and nodded, her eyes glazing over. “Oh so wet.” Lenny gulped. “We need to get upstairs.” “Oh yeah.” She sighed, lowering her lips to his and slipping her tongue into his mouth. “Unless you had other plans?” “Ha!” With that, he threw her over his shoulder and ran up to her room, taking the stairs three at a time. He couldn’t remember a time when he felt so energized. “Not here,” she called. “The studio.” Still with her hanging over his shoulder, he turned and made for the studio, pulling up short at the door. The easel was gone, as were her paintings. The only thing in the room was a small table upon which sat a dozen small containers. “What’s this?” he asked, putting her down and moving into the room. “I’m going to paint you.” She was right behind him. “Naked.” He turned, amazed by the naughty gleam in her eye. “Is that right?” “Uh-huh.” She nodded, and then turned serious. “Strip.” He blinked. “Take your clothes off, Lenny,” she whispered. “Or I’ll have to do it for you and if that happens…” She shook her head slowly. He watched in awe as she lifted the dress above her head, revealing her naked curves. “We’ll never fulfill this fantasy.” “Fantasy?” He gulped again, kicking off his shoes and unbuttoning his jeans. She nodded, moving toward the table. “The one where I cover your entire body with edible paint and then slowly lick it off you.” His cock jumped. Air whooshed out of him. It sounded far too good a fantasy but he didn’t know if he’d last the distance. “Oh don’t worry, I’ll make sure to prolong the pleasure.” He couldn’t get his clothes off fast enough. His shirt went flying, his jeans dumped in a pile in the corner. His briefs soon followed and in no time, he found himself standing completely naked in the center of the room. His heart skipped a beat when she
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turned off the lights, leaving him bathed in the moonlight streaming through the open curtains. “It won’t hurt,” she whispered, gliding around him. “I promise.” He groaned when she drew a finger down his cock, spreading a line of blood red paint down it. “No. It’s only going to kill me.” She laughed before slapping both hands flat on his ass cheeks. He imagined blood red hand prints and his cock gave another jump. Mesmerized, he could only watch as she mixed the paints to create a gorgeous canvas of abstract images over his body. Her every touch seemed more sensual than the last as she lovingly caressed his body. His hard-on grew painful as his cock strained for her expert touch, though when he thought of her tongue savoring each inch, he groaned out loud. “What are you thinking?” He laughed, the sound low and thick. “Of all the ways I’m going to get you back for making me stand here like this.” She sighed, brushing her lips against his. “I never said you couldn’t touch. Or join in.” He almost hit the roof. Join in? Paint her body with the glorious colors? Lick her clean? Oh boy, Lenny grinned like a Cheshire cat. “You’re gonna regret that invitation,” he warned playfully. “Where are those paints?” His first touch was to her breasts, as he painted those round nipples with sunshine yellow. Emma thought she’d died and gone to heaven when he tentatively licked at the paint, seeming to make sure it was okay to consume. Satisfied, he returned to the paint palette to scoop up a handful of hot pink paint. He coated both hands before kneeling before her and spreading the cool liquid over her belly. A deep and content moan rumbled through her chest as he continued to swirl the paint over her breasts and then down her back. Once again, he gripped her behind and pulled her toward him. His head pushed between her legs, spreading them before he licked her valley from one end to the other. Emma’s knees wobbled but he didn’t stay there. He began cleaning the paint from her skin with long strokes of his tongue. “Mmm,” he growled. “You taste good.” She’d wanted the session to last all night but realized at once it was an unreasonable desire. How could she have expected to last that long? Especially when he was licking her with his oh so hot tongue, and gently sucking on her breasts… The pounding in her womb reached fever pitch and she had to tend to the need before she went crazy. Pushing him backward, she bent and cleaned his cock. From under one of the paint pots she retrieved a strategically hidden condom and rolled it down his shaft.
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“Emma,” he growled, nodding and pulling her down to the floor with him. Still covered in paint, their bodies blended as he found her entrance and dipped the tip of his cock inside. “Lenny, please,” she pleaded when he pulled out. He laughed. “Told you I’d make you pay,” he teased, dipping inside her again. He pushed in a little further though withdrew before she could stop him. Emma grunted with annoyance. In the moonlight, his chest was a mix of the blues and purples she’d put there, and the hot pink he’d used on her. The swirls of colors were utterly beautiful but her attention was snagged once more when he entered her, this time all the way. She gave a shout when she felt him deep inside and rolled them so she could be on top. Needing to hold off on the orgasm just a little longer, she slowed the pace, drawing him in and out leisurely. Her labored breathing echoed in the empty room. At first she thought she was simply louder than Lenny but when he sat up and held her to him, she found they were breathing in unison. “Don’t come yet,” he demanded, touching her face tenderly. “I won’t,” she promised, touching his lips with her thumb. He sucked the digit in and laved it with his tongue, repeating the motions she’d used on him earlier. “Why?” He shook his head. “I don’t want it to end yet, Em, not yet.” She felt a quake pass through his body. He was trying desperately to stave off the inevitable. His words and his actions coalesced to create the impression that the shift in Lenny caused him to want to stay. The hook had caught, he’d taken the bait and all she had to do was reel him in. The exquisite joy she experienced jolted through her, contracting her muscles in forceful spasms. She felt herself tighten around him, tried to ignore the quickening in her womb but it was in vain. Her body knew what it wanted and clawed and scratched to snatch it from her grasp. “Emma,” he cried out when her hips bucked. “Wait for me, Emma.” Throwing her head back, the orgasm crashed through her, causing her to stifle a scream. Every organ in her body rang with the sensation, her skin tingled and the hairs on the base of her neck stood up. As awareness returned, she set her gaze upon him, silently apologizing for not being able to wait. “Again,” was all she could say, insatiable and still ravenous. “More.” Lenny grinned and assumed a dominant position. Sitting up on his knees, he pulled her hips up to meet him, leaving her shoulders and head on the floor. With the blood rush came a new excitement as he held her by her thighs and stroked her slowly. The evidence of her orgasm increased the connection between them and while she knew it was impossible, she felt him deep in her heart. Every stroke spiked her temperature, every touch to her clit made her heart thunder louder in her chest.
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Emma tried to grind her hips but he held her steady and rode her until she was moaning and demanding he satisfy her again. She was not getting out of it easily this time, he thought, controlling his bodily reactions while she writhed out of control. Her slick passage tightened around his cock and he slowed to extend the union. She huffed impatiently but he held back. Dammit, he couldn’t get enough of her, couldn’t face the thought he’d be leaving so soon. If he had to stay awake for the next twenty-four hours and pleasure her until she begged him to stop, he would. He’d never had such an inexplicable connection with a woman, had never been a part of something so intense that the mere idea of walking away tore a black hole deep in his soul. This is love, isn’t it? He knew it because it had less to do with the sex and more to do with the need to be around her, the feeling that he’d die on the inside if he left her. He’d made a mistake in reducing his relationship with her to a fling, made a fatal error in closing the door on anything more than great sex. He just didn’t know what to say or how to ask for a chance at redemption. Hearing her call his name, staring deep into her blue eyes, he knew that losing her would be the end of him. No woman could ever measure up to his Emma, not now, not since knowing her every desire. He’d never be able to go back to his carefree no-strings attached days. And the idea of leaving and then having to spend his time in the presence of the lovey-dovey Rocket and Robyn left him sick with envy. “Lenny,” she cried out as her back arched off the floor. Letting her hips down, he climbed onto her, needing the physical contact of her body and the warmth of her mouth. No more games, he decided, letting his hips thrust and feeling the glorious slide of his cock inside her. With so little time left, he needed to be honest with himself, and with Emma. When he exploded into her, they both cried out. Her nails dug into his back, her thighs hugged his hips and her lips found his in a frantic melding of sweet sighs and satisfied murmurs. “Oh, Lenny,” He smiled. “Yes, Emma?” She blinked. “How do you know how to please me like that?” He chuckled, his body bouncing on hers. “It’s like you said, I just know.” She kissed him. “Well, thank God for that.” “Emma.” He touched her face, her silky skin slightly clammy from sweat. “I don’t want to go back to Australia yet. I want to stay here, with you.”
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Chapter Nine Emma swallowed the shout of triumph threatening to give in to his proposition. She wanted him to stay, oh boy did she ever. With every fiber of her being, she wanted to wake up right beside him, surf the waves with him and make love to him every damned day. She wanted it more than she could rationally explain. But Emma had to stick to her plan. Giving in to Lenny now wouldn’t teach him the lesson she needed him to learn. Giving in to him would only prove that he could have everything he wanted without having to work for it. Giving in to him was too easy. She stared up into his shadowed face and took a deep, shaky breath. In her fantasies, it had never been this hard to turn him down. Of course, in said fantasies he hadn’t just made passionate love to her and fulfilled her entirely. And in fantasy land, she hadn’t fallen for him. It was true. While she knew he’d tumbled into her trap, she’d fallen in right alongside him. So much so the idea of letting him go seemed absolutely ridiculous. After all, she had what she wanted. Why the hell was she prepared to throw it back in his face? His frown didn’t help her thought process at all. And the heat still curling in her womb wasn’t making things easier. If his cock grew hard again, she just wouldn’t be able to follow through. Acting out her original plan, Emma rolled him off her and scrambled to her feet. She tried to arrange her features in a puzzled expression and swallowed to steady her voice. “You said it yourself, this was just until you went home.” On his knees, he gazed up at her with puppy-dog eyes. “But I want to stay, Em. I want to keep what we’ve got.” She shook her head, her eyes burning. “We just have sex, Lenny, that’s all. There’s nothing more between us and if we let this go on any more,” she sighed wistfully, “then I fear we might endanger our friendship.” On one hand, she wasn’t lying. Really, she did suspect their friendship was threatened by the sex, but it was something she’d expected to happen. It was unfortunate but history showed just how incapable Lenny was of maintaining friendships with ex-lovers. He was right, they always ended in screaming matches where the woman walked away devastated while he simply moved on. On the other hand, it was an outright lie to claim there was nothing more than sex between them. She knew it the night he came to her bed, felt it in his touch, and heard it in his voice. Their relationship was in limbo. They were more than friends, yet not true lovers.
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It sucked but she’d expected it to happen. “Friendship?” He sounded confused. “After everything we’ve shared, I would’ve thought we’d surpassed friendship, Emma.” Kneeling in front of him and taking his hands in hers, she silently pleaded for him to understand and be reasonable. It was something he’d probably done a dozen times with women, acted as if breaking off an affair was easy and clean. “Lenny, come on. You know as well as I do that we’re not compatible beyond sex. You live in Australia, I live here. I want marriage and children one day. You don’t. Let’s just accept that what went on between us was great sex, but nothing more.” He sighed. In the moonlight, she could hardly see his eyes. Reading his body language was useless. His slumped shoulders suggested rejection but the puffed chest and chin held high screamed male pride. “Maybe you’re right,” he said softly. “Maybe I got carried away.” Emma swallowed, disappointment tasting bitter at the back of her throat. How could he succumb to her illogical reasoning so quickly? Was it to hide the hurt? Or did he feel embarrassed at blurting out the desire to stay? “Maybe,” she agreed, tracing a finger along his jaw. “But if it’s any consolation, I’ve had a great time with you.” His head snapped up, as she’d known it would. He’d used those words once with another woman, shattering the poor girl’s self-esteem more than he could ever know. Since then, Emma had determined on replaying them back to him, only she never expected it to cut both ways. “So what? You were using me?” “Lenny,” she cajoled, trying to sound reasonable. “You’re making this out to be worse than it is. You were the one who said it would be a short-term affair, no strings attached, remember?” He grumbled under his breath, words she couldn’t decipher. His eyes left hers, his hands tugged out of her grasp abruptly. She understood a hurt soul when she saw one and it took all of her strength to keep from reaching out and taking back the pain. Lenny got to his feet. “So you’re trying to teach me a lesson, is that it? For all those women I bonked and then turned my back on, right?” She gave a noncommittal shrug. “Not really. Truth is, Lenny,” she got to her feet and stripped her voice of emotion, “I wanted to know what it was like to be with the great Leonard Banks. You’re not the only one who can do short-term affairs, you know. But I guess it’s clear that while you can dish it out, you can’t take it.” With that, she turned and left the darkened studio. When she reached the doorway to her bedroom, his hand clamped around her elbow and brought her to a halt. “This won’t work,” he growled angrily in her ear. “You can’t change me. I am who I am.” Emma sighed. “I wasn’t trying to change you. Like I said, I only wanted a piece of you for myself.”
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Jerking her arm out of his grasp, she entered her bedroom and shut the door for the first time since moving in.
***** Lenny paced in the living room, his anger speeding through his veins. He’d been played. Played by Emma, of all people. Sweet, innocent Emma who only ever behaved in a decent, upstanding kind of way. Her manipulating scheme mirrored every one of his indulgent affairs and it stung like poison. He hated she could expose him so easily, hated even more the ugly truth about his life. She was right, he couldn’t commit. That in itself wasn’t too hard to swallow but the way she’d uncovered the despicable way he’d treated women proved a bitter pill to swallow. Even in the moonlight, he’d seen the hurt in her eyes. She hadn’t wanted to reject his offer. She wanted him to stay every bit as much as he did but once she was committed to a plan, she was going all the way. Stubborn, just like him. The irony almost brought a smile to his lips. But he was too upset to smile. She’d designed a cunning plan, executed it to perfection and used her feminine wiles to outsmart him. He supposed on some level, he was impressed. Or at least, he should be. Instead, it just hurt too damned much. All along, he’d toyed with the idea to make her fall in love with him. He thought he had the situation and Emma all worked out. But the truth was much more complicated. It had been the other way around. Stupid wretch that he was, he’d fallen for her, allowing her into his heart like no other woman. He could see them waking up side by side, which for Lenny was a giant leap forward. Didn’t she see it? Couldn’t she understand how much he had changed because of her presence? Damn it. He paced restlessly, sleep the farthest thing from his thoughts. It occurred to him to storm up those stairs, break her door down and…what? What exactly would he do then? He had no idea what he would do or even what he wanted. The only thing that mattered right now was venting all the strange emotions warring inside him. The unfamiliar anger at being rejected. The disappointment of falling into her trap. The need to wrap his arms around her, kiss her senseless and make sweet love to her again and again. The truth was Lenny hadn’t the first clue how to handle the rejection or the disappointment. His relationships with women always were clear cut and cleanly defined from the get-go. Never had things erred into the gray areas where the lines
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between sex and emotion blurred beyond recognition. Emma had been the first to take him there. If she wasn’t trying to change him and she was only out to have a piece of him for herself, well, she’d done a marvelous job. Hadn’t she? Not only had she managed to stir the pot and bring about irreversible change, she’d stolen the largest chunk of him available. His heart. Lenny grumbled. He felt like a fool. How easy it had been for her. Show a little leg, expose those dangerous curves and he was hers for the taking. Shit, easy was a generous description. Simple, trouble-free and undemanding were better terms. She’d barely worked up a sweat in breaking him down, unless one counted the perspiration that slicked her body during and after each frantic coupling. Inexplicably his mouth watered at the thought. His tongue tingled in anticipation of her salty taste, his fingers itched to massage her scalp. As for his cock, well, it stood straight as a flagpole. Despite the anger and the hurt, he was hard for her. The memories of each frenzied thrust made his heart hammer wildly, even while it was breaking at the realization they’d never make love again. Lenny dropped down to the couch and sighed. What a mess, he thought sourly, an ugly mess neither would be in if he’d just kept to his rules and remembered they worked together. If he’d been able to control his lustful desires, no one would be getting hurt. It was his fault and because of his outspoken rules and philandering history, he really couldn’t count on anyone for sympathy. He’d have to tough this one out alone, even though he knew it would take a monumental effort to get over Emma.
***** When morning came, the tension he expected to feel between them didn’t eventuate. For starters, she woke him with a gentle smile and invited him surfing one last time. Down at the beach, they rode the waves together, laughing every time they got dumped. The walk back up the hill was comfortable as she chatted, excited about the opening of the club. Breakfast was a restful atmosphere amidst the aroma of frying bacon and eggs. Neither of them said a word about the night before, though he detected sadness in her eyes. He caught her eyeing him, as if she were savoring him before sending him away. It left him confused. Why reject his offer when it hurt so much? Teaching him a lesson couldn’t be her only plan. So he’d treated women badly, at least he’d never beaten one up. So he’d lived his life as an uncommitted stud. He wasn’t really offending anyone. There had to be more, something he missed but when he tried to pinpoint it, he felt like he was looking for a needle in a haystack. It didn’t help she was hiding. But it was a moot issue now. She’d rejected him. He had to accept it and move on. So when it came time to get to work at the club, Lenny was relieved for the change. 96
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Arriving a little before midday, he was glad to see Rocket strolling through the warehouse. The man would provide the distraction needed. Lenny left Emma to her business and joined his friend in the center of the dance floor. “Hey, boss man.” Rocket turned and smiled. He looked completely relaxed, no doubt courtesy of the honeymoon. Lenny suddenly wondered if two weeks in the South Pacific wouldn’t do him the world of good too. “Lenny!” Rocket slapped Lenny’s shoulder. “Enjoyed your stay?” Lenny nodded, careful not to seem too enthusiastic. “It’s been great. I really quite like LA.” “That’s fantastic. Did it help sort out your restlessness?” Lenny swallowed a groan. Was it actually possible for him to feel even more restless? Funny, he didn’t really think restless was quite the emotion he was experiencing now. “Yeah, I’m looking forward to returning to my old life.” Not. “Good.” Rocket smiled. “Because you’re needed at home.” Lenny arched an eyebrow curiously. “Don’t stress over it.” Rocket laughed. “But your dad’s looking forward to your return.” “Oh.” Lenny sighed. He’d barely thought about Horatio the whole time he was here, but he was instantly consumed with worry about the old man. Despite a stellar career as a detective and legendary status, he was still an aging man. “Is he okay?” “Of course.” Rocket winked. “Giving my old man a hard time on the golf course, though.” They both laughed. “And Robyn?” He watched in amazement as Rocket’s eyes glazed over and a dreamy expression took hold of his face. “Your sister and I are just fine.” “I wasn’t asking about you,” Lenny joked. “Although, I suppose she’s giving your old man a hard time too?” Rocket laughed and shook his head. “I’m keeping those two at a safe distance. Well, as much as is possible when they work together. But honestly, he’s grown very fond of her.” Lenny glanced around the club, half expecting to see his sister. “Is she here?” “She’s taking care of the jet. She’ll be here tonight.” Good, Lenny thought, suddenly wondering if his baby sister couldn’t help him out. She was good at listening and he admired the honesty of her advice. If anyone knew what he should do about Emma, Robyn was the one. With so much to do that afternoon, Lenny had no time to dwell on Emma or her rejection. Even better, it only crossed his mind once that in a little under twenty-four hours, he’d be on Rocket’s jet heading back to Australia. Alone and without Emma.
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“Tell me,” Rocket prodded while they were alone in the control room. “Did I make a good choice with Emma?” Lenny watched passively as Rocket toyed with one of the cameras, angling it and zooming in on Emma’s beautiful face. Unable to tear his gaze away, Lenny allowed his memories of her to cascade down on him. “A good choice?” he asked, his voice squeaking a little. Rocket frowned. “No?” “Ha! She was born for this,” Lenny praised. “You should have hired her to oversee the entire operation, not just security. She’s got everything under control.” “Good,” Rocket sounded pleased. “I worried at first. But if you think she’s the one, then I trust your judgment.” The one. The words twittered in the back of Lenny’s head incessantly. He’d never imagined himself finding one woman who could capture his heart and his mind as thoroughly as Emma had. And he’d refused to look far enough into the future to even consider the possibility of marriage. After his mother’s murder when he was thirteen, Lenny hadn’t wanted to open his heart up to such a tragic loss. It wouldn’t have to end in murder or even death. The idea of divorcing a woman with whom he’d shared his life sounded frighteningly painful. And should fate see him marrying and cherishing one woman for the next fifty years, the thought of her dying before him and leaving him alone squeezed his heart so hard he almost couldn’t breathe. He knew his beliefs were messed up but he couldn’t do anything about it. Losing his mother so early in life hadn’t done him any favors. Though when he opened his eyes and mind enough to see the growth in Robyn over the last few months, he wondered if there wasn’t hope for him. “Are you okay?” “Huh?” Lenny asked, dumbly staring at Emma while she chatted animatedly to Mystique’s manager. She really was beautiful. “I asked if you’re all right, Lenny.” Rocket slapped Lenny’s thigh. “You seem distracted.” Distracted? Lenny almost laughed. He was glad for the light moment and finally forced his gaze toward Rocket. It didn’t help. The man’s obvious happiness only reminded Lenny of the rejection he’d just been served. “I’m okay.” With a huff, Rocket swiveled toward the door as it opened to reveal Robyn. Lenny turned too and greeted his happy sister with a warm smile. He didn’t have to fake the pleasure. With her radiant glow and ear-to-ear grin, the mere vision of her lifted his spirits.
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“Hey, bro,” she quipped, stealing into his open arms and hugging him tight. “Good to see you.” Lenny peered down into her bright expression. “You look fantastic. Very rested.” She slid a glance toward her husband and they both chuckled. “Not so rested, big brother.” No, he wasn’t going there. He didn’t want to know about his sister’s sex life. That was far too much information. He shook his head and let her go. “You had a good flight, I hope?” Standing by her husband’s side, Robyn grinned and nodded. “Fantastic.” It wasn’t the most descriptive of terms, given she described every flight the same way. She loved to fly, it was her passion and when he analyzed it, Lenny saw a gaping hole in his own life. He had no passion anymore. When he left the force, he left behind everything he’d worked for, every goal he’d ever dreamed of, and every wish he’d ever cast. While the physical recovery from his injuries had taken time, the emotional recovery still had a way to go. He needed to find something besides the club to occupy his life. Lenny blinked at the thought. Never before had he thought his life empty and he sure as hell never considered himself lonely. But then, aside from his father and maybe Rocket, he didn’t have many close friends. He didn’t have a significant other to share his ups and downs with, a trusted confidant to unload on over a cold beer. Emma had filled the role before he got shot and was left to wallow in self-pity. She filled it again over the last two weeks. Did that mean she really was the one for him? Did he have the one and then lose her? Damn. “Lenny?” Robyn’s hand on his brought him out of his reverie. “Sorry.” He faked a smile. “Just going over a mental checklist for tonight, that’s all.” She didn’t look convinced. “How’s Emma?” He nodded. “Emma is great. I guess I’d forgotten how much of a friend she was.” He weathered their scrutinizing gazes for a moment, before saying, “We need to concentrate on tonight. It has to run smoothly for Emma. She’s put so much work into this place. You should be so lucky, Rocket.”
***** The catwalk seemed to be the safest place. She could watch the throbbing crowd, pulsing to Mystique’s hits, and make sure no one got out of line. She could watch Rocket and his wife enjoy the LA nightlife. And she could keep a close eye on Lenny and stay out of his way.
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She’d been avoiding him all day and from the looks he’d been giving her, he knew it. But she couldn’t help it. Being around him seemed to magnify her glaring error in judgment, and standing so physically close to him threatened to smash her resolve to send him away. It was a stupid, petty need for revenge but she wasn’t going to admit it—to anyone. Instead, Emma would keep aloof and act like her insides didn’t crave Lenny’s touch. The rumors about a packed house were true. Door security had to keep eager patrons at bay. At least the night was warm, she thought calmly. She was relieved to have won the battle to put a big screen on the outside of the building. The footage of the band and the dancing masses helped to ease tension in the lines snaking through the parking lot. As for Mystique, well, to put it quite simply, they rocked. The crowd jumped and jived to every one of their songs, singing the lyrics every time the lead singer stretched the microphone toward them. No wonder their album had gone four times platinum in a matter of weeks. Almost patriotically, Emma felt the Aussie stamp on the club lifted it above their local competition. She spotted the owners of two local clubs observing the crowd, the show, and the staff. It made her proud to know she’d scored their attention. The spotlight just below her kept her hidden, though she felt Lenny’s eyes burn her skin. He was near the bar, watching the crowd with a smile plastered on his face. It was a genuine emotion, she suspected, given the smooth running of the night. Even so, every time his face turned up to the catwalks, his smile faded and his eyes grew sad. Watching him watch her left her wondering how their goodbye would play out in twelve hours’ time. Would he hug her and wish her well? Or would the hurt drive a wedge between them and keep them apart? She tried to keep things light and airy this morning, tried for that cozy friendship feel she remembered always sharing with Lenny. And for the most part, she was certain it worked. The surfing went well, breakfast hadn’t erupted into a fight like she expected and when they got to the club, they went their separate ways without fuss. Jordan grilled her for almost an hour, though she gave him no information whatsoever. He wasn’t important in her relationship with Lenny, and she didn’t have to answer him. Not that he necessarily agreed but at least he kept his distance after she snapped and instructed him to keep his nose out of things. Below her, she spotted Rocket leading his wife onto the dance floor. Goose bumps raced along her spine as she remembered her first dance with Lenny. The memory tingled in her belly as she watched them wrap their arms around each other and bump and grind most erotically. Lenny had told her his sister first met Rocket on the dance floor in Melbourne, and from what she witnessed, it was no surprise they ended up together. They were a perfect and natural fit, moved in synch with each other and gave the appearance of a pair of lovers who’d been together forever.
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Sighing, Emma silently admitted she wanted that with Lenny. It didn’t help she felt as if they’d known each other all their lives, and she didn’t mean just as friends, either. If the stories about reincarnation and past lives were true, then she was sure she and Lenny had been together before. She felt it deep in her soul, which was why it hurt so much to let him go. It was also why she felt like an idiot for needing to exact her revenge on him. They weren’t kids and playing these silly games could do more harm than good. Nevertheless, Emma was unable to resist the powerful force driving the vengeful deed. Protected by the spotlight blinding his vision, Emma stared down into his handsome face. She could practically feel the silken strands of his jet black hair on her skin, taste his manliness, feel his tongue probe her mouth. Exhaling a shaky breath, she reminded herself she was doing the right thing. Even if she couldn’t explain why the decision was the right one, she was going to stay the course and see him safely onto the plane tomorrow. Whether she crumpled into a sobbing heap afterward was another story. She’d deal with it if—and when—it happened. For now, Emma was cool, calm and collected. She was happy with the physical affair, safe in her womanhood to let the enigmatic Lenny walk right out of her life. If he found solace in the arms of another, well, she was an adult. She could bloody well do the same if she had to.
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Chapter Ten After twenty minutes of searching, he found her on the catwalk. She’d been up there most of the night, he’d felt her eyes on him throughout. Still, he’d had to make two sweeps of the upper level to finally lay eyes on her. It was as if she was hiding from him. Despite the burning desire to stare into those gorgeous blue eyes, he wasn’t looking forward to reigniting the churning in his belly. The awful truth that he was going home in less than twelve hours made him feel sick. He couldn’t get past the desire to stay. It was so unlike him it was scary. Then, of course, he felt uneasy about being scared. He wasn’t a scaredy-cat by nature. He drew the line, however, at being worried about being worried. In true Banks fashion, Lenny put on a happy face and joined her above the dance floor. “It’s been a great night,” he said above the deep bass thumping through the catwalk beneath his feet. “You can stop fretting now.” The corner of her mouth lifted. “Thanks.” A quick nod of the head, matter-of-fact like. “It has been a great night.” “But you’re still worrying?” She shook her head too quickly, as if trying too hard to convince him she was fine. He saw right through it. Only thing was, Lenny couldn’t decide if she was concerned about the club or them. “I’m okay.” Leaning his forearms on the railing, he nudged her with his shoulder and grinned. “Liar. What’s up?” With a sigh and feigned carelessness, she shrugged. “I guess I’m concerned about Rocket keeping me on now the club’s up and running.” She was lying again, he was sure of it. The voiced concern wasn’t exactly believable. Rocket was more than impressed with her work, so much so he was seriously considering promoting her to the top position. It would put her one step below Rocket and would give her the ultimate creative power Lenny knew she craved. Rather than argue, he decided to address the concern. He didn’t want to talk about what had gone on between them. That was definitely not an option. His queasiness saw to it. “You’ll be fine. Rocket’s very impressed with everything you’ve done.” She smiled, the emotion genuine this time. “Thanks.”
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“So am I, Em,” he added sincerely, wanting her to know she held her own and he was proud of her. “I mean that.” “Thanks.” She sighed again and he saw some of the tension in her shoulders dissipate. “I’ve enjoyed working with you again, Lenny.” He felt the subtle shift in intensity between them and despite his best intentions, he became aware the conversation was going to stray into awkward territory. “Me too.” He straightened and glanced at his watch. “Would you look at that?” He forced a laugh, hoping it was passable. “We should probably get some rest, eh?” “I don’t know, Lenny, maybe I should stay until closing time.” “No,” he said firmly. “If you stick around that long, you’ll be asleep when my flight leaves.” He could’ve kicked himself, sounding so desperate for her attention. Watching intently for signs she’d heard it, he was grateful when her eyes sparkled and she nodded. “Of course I’ll be there.” She play-punched his arm. “You didn’t think I’d let you get out of a goodbye that easily, did you?” Lenny didn’t feel the playful punch. He felt the ever present sizzle between them and had to swallow the urge to drag her into his arms. It was bad enough he felt so confused, but it would be worse if he made a move and was rejected again. He’d look like a lovesick fool. Somewhere deep inside him, something snapped. It was like a taut rubber band being smacked against his skin. Lovesick? Him, the great catch me if you can Lenny Banks, lovesick? Until two weeks ago, the idea would have been preposterous. Now he shivered at the truth behind it. “Lenny?” He blinked. When his eyes found hers, he fell deep into her soul. Quite remarkably, he felt her embrace his presence. “I’m o-okay,” he stammered, needing some water. “You look tired,” she said, stepping toward him and running her palm down the side of his face. He loved the concern in her voice, the feel of her soft, warm skin against his. “Maybe you’re right. Maybe I should take you home.” Take me home, pleeeeeease. He was that teenage boy again with the crush on an older woman. It took everything he had not to reach for her. Lenny could only manage a nod but when she took his hand in hers, he knew he would do nothing but follow this sexy, curvaceous woman anywhere.
***** Watching Lenny suck big, fat juicy strawberries into his mouth, she couldn’t help but imagine him using his mouth on the most intimate places of her body. And when he dipped his fingers into the warm, gooey chocolate, she visualized him tracing her curves with the tasty treat.
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Despite the raging thoughts and naughty pictures in her head, Emma stayed on her side of the living room. Getting closer to him was a dangerous idea, one that could easily turn into something more…wickedly wild. She swallowed and hoped he couldn’t tell what she was thinking. Earlier, on the catwalk above the club, he’d told her he was impressed by her work. Flattered, she was disappointed he couldn’t open up more and tell her how he felt about her. She’d seen trepidation in his eyes, sensed fear in him when he was close. He bottled it up, just like he’d always done, and it sealed her confidence. Letting him go was exactly the right move. For years she’d known Lenny was his own man and did whatever he wanted. It had always been one of the things that attracted her to him. She’d never harbored any grand illusions of changing it. No one could change Lenny, not unless he wanted it for himself. She just wished he could trust her enough to open up and lay some of himself on the line. He was probably delighted to jet off into the wild blue yonder. After all, he’d enjoyed the kind of affair most guys dreamed of. And it seemed as though he was walking away unscathed, to boot. No screaming matches, no disappointments and no regrets. At least, not for Emma. True, he’d been infinitely better in real life than in her fantasies but she wouldn’t hold any regrets. If Lenny had his cake and ate it too, then so had she. “Maybe you should go to bed,” she suggested before dropping another strawberry into her mouth. The chocolate melted on her tongue and slid silkily down her throat. Yum. “It’s late and you need some sleep.” He yawned, stretched and stood. “It was a line and you know it.” Emma frowned. “Pardon?” Crossing the room, he plopped down on the couch beside her. The older cushioning sagged, rolling her against him. Alarm bells rang loudly in Emma’s head while he smiled smugly. “I just wanted to get you alone, you know.” “Lenny,” she started, trying to push away but only managing to mold her body to his more perfectly. Sighing with resignation, she relaxed and stared up at him. “Things are going good, let’s just leave it at that, okay?” He nodded but didn’t move. Rather, his hand found her bare shoulder and stroked her already tingling skin. Emma fought against the urge to close her eyes and melt at the sensation. “And what if I suggested we jump into bed one last time?” The cheeky grin on his mouth drew her gaze. She shouldn’t be surprised, Lenny never knew when to stop. This was why his affairs ended so badly. “Then I’d say—” She opened her mouth to take a breath and rather than air, she tasted Lenny. His lips crashed down onto hers as he rolled her back and covered her. It was amazing how effortlessly his hardness found the apex of her thighs and nestled in comfortably when he settled onto her. Worse still, it was unnerving how easily she parted her legs for him. 104
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But the kiss was all that occupied her mind. It was as if he was getting his fill of her, making sure he sucked up every last drop of her to take home with him. Two could play at that game, she decided, returning the vigor of the kiss with all the heat and passion she could muster. In the dead of night, he took her mouth and mind on an incredibly journey. Everything he did, every sweep of his tongue, the power of his lips, the rapidity of his breathing, gave her aching desire something to hold onto. Time stopped as her heart skittered around her chest. The only sound in the room was of their fevered exploration of each other. The silence of the night was filled by his scent, his taste, his wandering hands and the hardness she desperately wanted to feel again inside her. When he broke away, he stared into her eyes hard and then kissed her again with more urgency and need. Time stood still. When Lenny finally pulled back and sucked in some air, Emma was dizzy. Her body burned and quivered and despite the layers of clothing separating them, the heat of his hardness against her put her in danger of making rash decisions. She never counted on Lenny playing dirty. He rocked his hips against her and propelled her toward bliss. His eyes drilled into hers with every thrust, while his hands found the curves of her breasts under her thin cotton nightshirt. The zing that zipped through her arched her back and made her gasp. “Give in,” he urged, sounding as out of control as she felt. “One last time, Em. It can’t hurt.” Thoughts, wishes, dreams and desires zoomed through her mind. All the while, she rocketed toward release. She wanted it, oh yes, yes, yes, yes. But what she really wanted was Lenny to stay, for him to take his time with her every night and every morning. She’d never enjoy one last time because she never wanted it to end. All coherent thought exploded into a brilliant light show before her eyes as her body took a flying leap into the bottomless pit of bliss. The sensation of falling gripped her hard, tricked her heart into believing he’d changed. As she dropped, she cried out his name over and over. Her hips bucked and her heart pounded against her rib cage for more of his touch. So consumed by her own orgasm, Lenny knew she didn’t hear him cry out. He was thankful his clothes prevented her from feeling him give in to the roaring need in his groin. Beneath him, she shuddered and vibrated, her mouth searching for his. Heat seeped from her to him, pouring in through their only skin to skin connection. He tasted salty tears and jerked in surprise to discover they were his own. His eyes flung open and he found her staring up at him with red-rimmed eyes, wet with her unshed tears. He pulled back, pushed up from her and found his feet clumsily. Confused, weakened and dizzy, he stumbled through the darkness to his room and slammed the door shut. What the hell was happening? He was crying?
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He swiped at his cheeks, angry at himself. He never cried. Not even when his mother was killed and at thirteen, he watched her coffin lowered into the ground. He didn’t cry when Robyn left either. Age had to be making him sentimental, he decided and flung himself down on the bed. He’d done it now. She wouldn’t speak to him after a show like that, would she? He should have taken her advice and left things as they were. Why did he have to have her one last time? Burying his face in a pillow, Lenny chastised his inability to know when to stop. He had to go out there and apologize, but how was he supposed to look her in the eye? Lenny groaned at the thought of saying sorry. He didn’t want to see the expression on her face, and he didn’t want to see the disappointment. No, it was better to leave it alone for the time being, give them both some breathing space. At the airport, he would hug her and whisper in her ear how sorry he was. He would relish what he expected to be the last time he ever held her and then find some solace for his brutish behavior in the privacy of his own life. Yes, that’s what he would do. He would sort it all out in the morning when they’d both had some time to clear their heads.
***** He knew he was in trouble when he found Jordan in the kitchen the next morning. And he lost all hope of redemption when he learned Emma was nowhere to be found. “She’s gone surfing,” was all Jordan would say. Lenny would have believed him, except her car was gone and five surfboards still stood against the laundry wall. She’d gone all right but she wasn’t surfing. He suspected she’d done a runner to avoid having to speak to him and after their midnight escapade, he didn’t blame her. He acted like a louse and she had every right to be disgusted with him. Still, when Lenny sat down to a bowl of Weet-bix and milk, he harbored a fragile hope of meeting up with her at the airport. While he munched, he sensed Jordan’s eyes on him but every time he looked up, he found the man with his back to him. “Is she okay?” Jordan only shook his head while he stared out the kitchen window. The silence was excruciating but Lenny suspected it was infinitely better than being yelled at. He finished his bowl of cereal without another word, not wanting to risk Jordan’s wrath. But curiosity got the better of him and when he rinsed his bowl in the sink, he glanced at the other man. “You just couldn’t leave well enough alone, could you?” Jordan growled, his seething anger barely contained. Lenny’s heart skipped a beat. “I didn’t want to hurt her.” Jordan frowned. “You’ve got a funny way of showing it.”
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“Hey, she’s an adult. She knew what she was doing.” It was a lame attempt at deflecting Jordan’s anger but Lenny had to defend himself somehow. “Maybe,” Jordan acknowledged him with a nod. “It’s probably a good thing you’re leaving.” “Says the ex-boyfriend still in love with her,” Lenny said without thinking. “Sorry,” he offered immediately. “I didn’t mean for that to come out.” Jordan smiled wryly. “But you did actually mean it, right? You really think I’m still in love with her.” Nodding, Lenny dried his hands on a towel. “You are. It’s obvious but I don’t blame you.” “What do you mean?” “She’s everything a guy could want and so much more. You should go after her.” Jordan laughed sarcastically and shook his head. “No chance of that happening now, not after,” Jordan waved his hand at Lenny, “you.” “Me? Nah.” Lenny shook his head. “Emma doesn’t love me, she just wanted to prove a point.” “True,” Jordan agreed. “But it’s more than that. You’re a blind man, Lenny. I hear you’ve been blind for as long as you’ve known her. It wasn’t so much about proving a point as it was about revenge.” Lenny stopped breathing. Revenge? What the hell had he done to her? Had they shared more than a kiss? Had he taken advantage of her when he was drunk? “Revenge?” “Oh yeah, she was pissed as hell you never looked at her like you wanted to sleep with her. According to Emma, you slept with all the other women but her.” Gulping, Lenny almost swallowed his tongue. So that was what this was all about? Because he treated her with respect and honor, valued her enough to protect their friendship? He was stunned, speechless. Emma wasn’t capable of maliciousness, yet her offer of no-strings attached sex now seemed more like a slap in the face than every man’s dream come true. “You look shocked.” “She tracked me down, didn’t she?” he realized with a start. “She scored the job with Rocket to get close to me.” He shook his head, not sure if he was upset or flattered. Why didn’t she just call him up? “Look, Lenny, it probably seems all too calculating for someone like Emma but she really was mad at you. I tried to talk her out of it.” Lenny bet he did too, if only to have another shot with Emma himself. “So now she has her revenge,” he said softly, supposing there was now no hope of seeing her at the airport. “I guess she can’t wait to see the back of me.”
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Jordan opened his mouth and then stopped. He seemed ready to burst, to say something else but then thought better of it. Instead, he shook his head and tapped his watch. It was time to go, time to catch his ride home with Rocket. Feeling dejected, he gathered his belongings and met Jordan out by his car. When he threw his bag on the backseat, he found a sealed tube with his name on it. It was Emma’s handwriting but he didn’t feel like opening the parting gift now. His heart had been crushed and he didn’t know if he’d ever feel the need to speak to her again. Sitting numb in the passenger seat, he didn’t notice anything on the drive to LAX. The only thing he felt was misery. He couldn’t even muster up anger. In some crazy way, he kind of understood the reasoning behind Emma’s scheme. After all, she’d watched his antics from the sidelines, seeing him bounce from one bed to another without apparent care. He never knew she wanted him to bounce into her bed. He would never have done it, his rules were rock-solid back then but he could’ve at least talked to her. He could’ve explained how much she actually meant to him, how much he cared about her. Somehow, he would’ve made her see reason, see that being with him was the dumbest move she could ever make. She probably understood that very well now. As the car came to a stop, Lenny silently hoped she was happy with herself. He didn’t deny he deserved to be played, he just wished it hadn’t been Emma. “Come on.” Jordan slapped his shoulder. “Cheer up, Lenny. Look at it this way, you got a red-hot affair and she got her revenge.” “And now I should just play my part and go home, huh?” he retorted snidely. “Well, tell Emma from me, she shouldn’t have gone to the trouble. I’ll never change my ways.” Jordan shrugged. “Your choice, man. Do you need me to show you to the terminal?” Lenny shook his head. He’d had enough of Jordan’s company for a lifetime. Besides, the guy was on Emma’s side and Lenny didn’t want to put up with anymore of the truth from Jordan. “Thanks but I’ll find it. You take care of the club, you hear?” He wanted to tell the guy to protect Emma too, but he didn’t have the heart to say her name. Jordan smiled sympathetically. “Don’t worry, I’ll look out for her.” With his bag slung over his shoulder and her tubed gift in his free hand, Lenny strode through the busy airport. The noise around him provided a buffer against any more thoughts of her, while his mission to find Rocket and the jet helped keep his emotions in check. It wasn’t until he was on the plane, seated next to Rocket that Lenny finally took a deep breath and tried to calm down. Rocket nudged him a couple of times but he didn’t respond. Nope, he tucked his head against his shoulder and stared out the window, his desperate heart trying to keep Emma from his thoughts.
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***** Emma watched the jet take off through a veil of tears and wished she had said goodbye. It was a cowardly way to end things between her and Lenny, but she spent so much of the night sobbing into her pillow that when she woke, her puffy red eyes gave her away. He looked so forlorn and sad she’d struggled to keep her distance. At least he had the paintings, the one she painted of him surfing and the one of the pier he admired. She was sure they would bring a smile to his face, even if he was hurting. Given enough time, he’d get over her but he’d always have the paintings to remind him of the time they shared together. Turning away from the window, she found Jordan a few steps behind her. The I told you so look in his eyes said it all but to his credit, he kept his mouth shut and embraced her. His big body gave her warmth and comfort, while his large hands smoothing over her soft, product-free hair teased another few tears from her eyes. “I’m such an idiot,” she said harshly when he let her go. “Why didn’t you stop me?” He smiled and wiped her cheeks. “Because you had to do it, babe. Besides, stopping you is like trying to stop a freight train.” His words pulled a shaky smile from her lips. “Was he okay when he got up?” Jordan’s smile faltered a little though after a moment, he nodded. “Yep. He’s just eating humble pie, that’s all. Nothing to worry about.” He squeezed her shoulder. “And you’re going to be okay.” “Thanks.” Emma fell into step beside her friend as they left the busy terminal area. Despite the club opening with a bang, there was still a lot of work to do and moping about after a man she had deliberately pushed away wasn’t going to solve anything. Because it was the weekend, the club was still at the top of her priority list, no matter how much she wanted to drop everything and run after Lenny. As they returned to the club and greeted the cleaners mopping up the mess, they found the rest of the crew milling about in the conference room. Some had been up for twenty-four hours, while others were fresh from bed rest. The meeting was designed to debrief opening night and to prepare for night two. Already the guest list for the club was full. Emma was pleased, ready to talk shop with the others. Tandi handed her a steaming cup of coffee, for which Emma smiled her thanks, while Maggie sidled up beside her and gently asked if she was okay. Emma wondered if she was really that transparent. She examined each of the faces turned her way and sighed. Yeah, she was obvious all right. They all seemed to know the sordid details and the ugly mess she’d made. Maybe some understood the turmoil still churning in her belly too.
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“I’m just tired,” she said by way of an explanation. Skepticism greeted her and confirmed she was a terrible liar. But she knew that, Lenny had told her. Her gut clenched at the thought of his name and she had to force down a mouthful of coffee. “I’m fine, really.” Liar. His voice echoed in her head, reminding her of the playfulness they shared. Really, I’m fine, she told her heart firmly. Really, really, really fine. If only she could stop thinking about him, she’d be good as gold. “Now about tonight,” she began, setting her paper coffee cup on the table and assuming the role of chairperson. “The club will be full again, so we should be on our toes. Mystique will be back to perform a second set of songs.” “Was the boss impressed?” She nodded at Tommy’s question. “Yes, Rocket was over the moon with our success.” “I meant the other boss,” he clarified softly, his eyes darting about the room. “Oh.” Emma swallowed and straightened her shoulders. “Yes, Lenny was impressed too.” Tommy smiled faintly, his eyes gentle and apologetic as he nodded. “Okay, onto business,” she insisted, hoping to put an end to any more talk of Lenny. The meeting finished much earlier than expected, leaving her far too much time at the club. Eventually, she made it through the rest of the day and when the doors opened to a line of patrons trailing off into the night, Emma was ready for night two. All the while, thoughts and memories of Lenny resisted her every attempt at banishing them to a deep and dark recess.
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Chapter Eleven Time had a funny way of playing tricks with her mind. In the week following Lenny’s departure, Emma found herself wanting it to speed up when there was nothing else to occupy her. And yet, when there wasn’t enough time to complete all of her jobs, she needed it to slow down. Regardless, Emma found herself mulling over Lenny far too often. The memories they shared, both from the time they were cops pounding the pavement together and from their most recent coupling, tormented her with a relentless persistence that made her want to scream. Sometimes, a vision of them together in the moonlight would strike at the most inopportune time. Like when she was saying a final farewell to Mystique. She thought no one noticed until cheeky Charlie Brown whispered in her ear. “That good, huh?” was all she said. It was enough to bring a fiery heat to Emma’s cheeks and leave her speechless. She needed to see to that transparency thing really soon. Of course, she would never live down the interruption one such vision caused when giving a congratulatory speech to her crew. On a midweek night, they gathered at Mangiamo, a little Italian restaurant in Manhattan Beach she’d sought in honor of Lenny’s heritage. She’d been somewhere between I’m proud and honored to work with you all and our rivals are searching for ways to beat us when her mind took a detour and landed her in Lenny’s arms. The scene had been a midnight skinny dip at the beach and the effect it had on her was instant. Her crew noticed the change in her immediately. Emma wanted to crawl under the table and never come out. But she was determined not to let Lenny win. The power struggle was only in her mind. After all, he’d left without a fight and had probably settled back into his usual routine of bed-hopping by now. As yet, she hadn’t spoken to Rocket about her job, though she was relatively certain she was safe. She trusted Lenny when he said the boss had been impressed by her work. Lenny had no reason to lie, which made her game of revenge all the more regretful. But what was done, was done. She could do nothing to alter the events of the past, events she orchestrated and now determined her most singular future. Needing a distraction, she treated the entire crew to a day down the coast to catch some waves and soak up the sunshine. It was nice getting back to basics with friends by her side and the familiar and comforting tradition of surfing. They strolled along the shore, ate foot-long hot dogs with every condiment known to man, and lay on their towels as the afternoon waned. While the others had gone for some cold drinks, she found herself alone with Jordan. She thanked him for his company. He propped himself up on one elbow and 111
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stared at her. Emma had to work hard to avoid squirming under his gaze. “How long do you think you can keep this up, Em?” She frowned, pretending to be confused when she understood exactly what he meant. “I don’t understand,” she lied. “You do.” He nodded. “And you know it. But just because we’re friends, I’ll elaborate.” He sat up and crossed his tanned, muscular legs by her side. She remembered when those strong legs had tangled with hers and marveled at her cool reaction at the memory. Why didn’t it arouse her the way it once had? “How long will it take you to stop daydreaming about Lenny? How long do you think you can pretend that you’re not thinking about him every minute of every day?” She sighed and stared up at the sky, grateful for her dark sunglasses. “It’s over, Jordan. Lenny’s gone. And I’m not pining over him,” she argued defensively. Jordan chuckled and ruffled her messy hair. “Aha, and I’m wearing a Superman costume under my shirt and shorts.” “Don’t tease me,” she pleaded. “Don’t make this harder. And if you say I told you so, I will make you pay dearly. You were right, I was wrong. Okay?” Suddenly serious, Jordan shook his head and leaned down to press a soft kiss to her forehead. “No, I’m not satisfied. I don’t like seeing you this way.” She shrugged and wriggled out of his reach. Getting to her feet, she decided there was enough time for one last ride before they had to make tracks. Without another word, she picked up her board and made for the water. Jordan didn’t follow and she was grateful for the time alone. The problem was that being in this particular swimsuit, riding this exact board and dipping in the salty ocean reminded her of Lenny. Every time she plowed her arms through the water and kicked up to her feet, she felt his presence right beside her. At one point she even looked over, half expecting to see him grinning back beneath his jet black hair. Paddling out to the calm deep water, she straddled her board and wondered what the hell she was doing to herself. He was gone and it was clear he wasn’t coming back. He hadn’t called to see how she was doing, hadn’t emailed to let her know how he was. Just like last time. The silence was excruciating but then, she hadn’t exactly been forthcoming in her communications either. Emma couldn’t help but wonder what conclusion he would draw from her lack of response. She’d promised him they’d remain friends. And in her experience, friends called. With the sun dropping lower in the sky and casting a muted afternoon light over the water, Emma resolved to get on with her life. She’d start dating again, maybe even take some of her paintings to an auction house Downtown. They’d sell, she was sure of that, though how much they’d sell for wasn’t clear. Not that she did it for the money. She loved painting as an expression of feeling and life. Of course, setting her inner soul on the auctioneer’s table made her heart stutter. Still, she’d never know if she didn’t try. “Hey, Emma!” 112
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Hauled out of her daydream, she looked up to find Tommy Fernandez paddling his board in her direction. She smiled and waved. He’d been a wonderful asset to their team with his eyes and ears still entrenched in the street scene, and she was unusually glad she’d allowed Jordan to talk her into hiring him. The gently bobbing ocean lifted them momentarily. “I never picked you for a surfer girl, Emma. You’re not too bad.” She laughed and splashed water at the shorter, Hispanic man. “Neither are you, for an ex-cop.” He let out a loud, “Ha!” before shaking his head at her. “Look who’s talking.” Emma shrugged. “It’s history.” “Is it, really?” He seemed serious all of a sudden. “I get the feeling something’s changed lately.” Emma blinked as another rolling wave raised them. “What do you mean?” He shied away then, glancing back toward the beach at the others gathered on the shore. “It’s none of my business, Emma. Forget it.” She reached out and touched his arm. “Tommy, what is it?” When he turned back his eyes were soft and warm, concerned for her. “Ever since Lenny,” he explained softly. “Something’s changed in you. Like you remembered what it was like to be his partner and a cop, and now you miss it more.” She smiled. “I appreciate your concern Tommy, but there’s nothing to worry about. Really.” He shook his head. “Be honest with yourself, Emma. Maybe you don’t miss being a cop, maybe it’s Lenny you miss, I don’t know. I just know there’s something different about you since he left.” She sighed. He was right but she wasn’t about to admit it. If she was really honest with herself, then yeah, she missed Lenny. She’d lost him once and it had been a critical blow to her life. Losing his friendship, the closeness they shared, and his everyday presence in her life inflicted a significant wound four years ago. Losing Lenny this time was worse. Partly because she’d pushed him away, willingly let him go in order to score her personal victory over him. Mostly because of the intimacy they shared. It had never been about the sex but she’d been too full of herself to admit it. But she couldn’t dwell on her mistake or she’d likely lose her mind. “Perhaps I got a little nostalgic,” she confessed, barely touching on the truth. “Lenny reminded me of the good old days. But my life is here.” “What happened between you two?” “Then or now?” He smiled. “Then.”
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Emma swallowed. “We were on patrol one night when we got a call about some guy lurking around the docks. It was midnight and the place wasn’t really lit very well. Lenny took off after him only the guy pulled out a gun and shot him.” “Oh man.” Tommy rocked back on his board and then grabbed her hand. The look in his eyes suggested he understood. She doubted he could. “I’m sorry.” “He was shot once but the bullet bounced off bones and tore him up pretty bad. He only just made it through surgery.” “You blame yourself, don’t you?” She huffed. “Wouldn’t you?” He nodded but allowed her to go on. “I was his partner. I was supposed to be watching his back. Some cop I turned out to be.” “You know,” Tommy squeezed her hand, “we had a similar thing happen, just after I started. The partner was treated like a leper, like no one could trust him. I suppose it was like that for you.” Emma nodded. “I trusted him and requested to be his new partner. He turned out all right. He watched my back, I watched his.” Appreciating his story, Emma lifted one shoulder in a shrug. “Lenny was a hero back then. Everyone looked up to him, admired him. Actually,” she smiled wryly, “they worshipped him. He couldn’t be a cop after what happened and whether or not you believe me, I was partly responsible for that. I bet if things had been the other way around, he would’ve saved my ass.” Tommy shook his head. “You don’t know that, you can’t know that. I’ve seen the way your mind works, Emma, we’ve worked together long enough. I know you would’ve made a good cop if you’d given yourself a chance.” She liked his assurance though she couldn’t say she agreed with him. Still, she squeezed his hand to say thanks before indicating they should get back to the group and start for home. Tommy nodded but before he let her go, he gave her one last piece of advice. “I’ve seen the way you look at him, the way he looks at you. You shouldn’t let it get away easily, Emma. Love doesn’t come along too often.” Love? Lenny didn’t love her. Sure, he was hooked and she got what she wanted. When he walked away, he was looking back and hankering for more. Whether that consisted of him wanting anything more than sex, she didn’t know. As for love, he wasn’t the kind to let his heart get so involved. She couldn’t recall Lenny ever seeing a woman for more than a week. She didn’t think he’d ever been in love. As for how she felt about him, well, the truth was plain and clear. She’d loved Lenny from the first day she met him. It might have been a crush or puppy-love back then, but it was full-blown love now. The only thing was that in pushing him away, she ruined any chance they might have had.
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A week later, the club was still rocking and the media was working its magic. Whether the local entertainment reporters meant to drum up business or not, the Air Lounge continued to enjoy unprecedented success. Celebrities clamored to have their photos and names linked with the club, and the acts booked for the next six months were of the highest caliber. She had calls from band managers all over the world, including the infamous Tantaliser. They weren’t experiencing the best publicity, what with Nicholas St. Eve ragging on Mystique’s Charlie Brown every chance he got. She was tempted to let them play but she’d promised Charlie she’d resist. It infuriated Nik to no end. He even called in person, and tried to charm her into agreeing to one performance. It helped they were booked solid for the next six months and when she explained it to Nik, he hadn’t taken the news very well. So while the week had been busy and full, Lenny never strayed far from her thoughts. It was true she finally weeded him from her mind twenty-four-seven, yet every time she was alone, there he was. He still hadn’t called and neither had she. She’d almost given in to temptation many a time, though with Jordan dogging her every move she’d been saved from her own weakness. In an attempt to cheer her up, Jordan coaxed her to dinner and a show. She agreed only to shut him up. While they enjoyed a lavish dinner at one of LA’s finest restaurants, they talked inanely about anything and everything, so long as it had nothing to do with Rocket, Lenny or the club. That didn’t leave much. “You know,” he said over dessert. “Everyone’s worried about you. They’ve all sensed there’s something wrong and they want to help.” Emma shook her head. “There’s nothing any of you can do, Jordan. Look, it’s just like you said. I got in over my head and now I have to live with it. I’ll be okay.” Eyeing her suspiciously, he looked unconvinced by her speech. “I asked you last week how long you thought it would take to get over him. You never answered me then so I’m asking again now. How long, Emma?” She shrugged, hating this conversation, hating the hole she’d dug for herself and wanting very much to take a long cruise somewhere in the Bahamas. “I don’t know, Jordan. I appreciate the crew is concerned but this is my problem, my dilemma. Do you understand that?” “No. Not when you found it easy to get over me. What is it about Lenny that’s making this so hard for you? You said it yourself, he’s a womanizer afraid of commitment. What makes you think he’ll change his ways for you?” No longer hungry for the gourmet dessert, Emma dropped her fork and set her elbows on the table to stare at Jordan. “I never set out to change him. I admit, maybe deep down I hoped for a miracle but I knew all too well going in to the affair what he was like. I never intended for anything long term.” He smiled knowingly, further frustrating her. “Until you admitted how much you loved him, right?”
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“No,” she responded firmly. Determined not to give Jordan the satisfaction of saying I told you so, Emma neutralized her facial features. “Lenny is incapable of longterm. And, quite frankly, I care too much about myself to let him jerk me around.” “Fine,” he held up both hands in surrender, “have it your way, Em. I just hope you know what you’re doing.” She did too. The ballet performance was more than she expected from Jordan. He’d promised her a show, not the Beijing Modern Dance Company with their performance of Rear Light. Fascinated, Emma sat entranced for the entire performance. The beauty of movement coupled with the communication of emotion between the dancers lifted her spirit into the heavens above. She felt enlightened, enlivened and completely engrossed by the show. When the curtain finally went down on the performance, Emma turned to Jordan. She didn’t miss the enormous smile on his face or the twinkle in his eye that suggested he was happy to see her so joyful. Regardless of his intentions, she was thankful for his support and presence. “Amazing,” she whispered as people moved toward the exits. She and Jordan remained in their seats. “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.” He smiled, his warm palm finding her cheek. “I thought you could do with a little inspiration.” Inspiration. That was exactly what she needed and as she watched the theatre empty out, she was struck by the urge to return to her studio and begin a new project. “Would you take me home?” The drive back to Manhattan Beach was quiet. Her mind ran a reel of dancers for her, based on both the performance she’d just witnessed and the memories of her time with Lenny. The project she had in mind was very new to her. She’d only ever painted real life scenes, places she’d been, people she’d met. Never before had she thought to give voice to the wants and desires raging through her body in abstract form. Granted, this new piece wouldn’t be for everybody’s taste. But hell, she had no intention of showing it to anyone, let alone selling it. Impatient need itched along her skin as she watched the familiar scenery roll by. Lord but she couldn’t wait. It didn’t matter that it was almost midnight, or that she had to be up early for another of Joe’s firefighter boot camp sessions. She had a project to complete, a plan to execute and nothing was going to stop her. “Are you okay?” Jordan inquired as he brought the sports car to a halt at her curb. Emma nodded. “Very much and it’s all because of you. Thank you for tonight.” He smiled and killed the engine. “What are friends for, Em? I’m just glad I could help.”
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“I’m blessed to have friends like you,” she said softly, touching his cheek. “You do know how much I appreciate your friendship, right?” With his eyes warm and soft, and the car so cozy, Emma felt as if she could accomplish anything. The late hour wasn’t a deterrent to her newfound vigor and she decided to get to it. Leaning forward to kiss his cheek, Emma was startled when he turned his head and his lips found hers. Stunned, she didn’t move while Jordan kissed her. It was no different to the kisses they’d shared in the past, with his lips strong and demanding. Only this time she didn’t kiss him back. He wasn’t what she wanted, he wasn’t the man her heart needed to feel whole again. And when she pulled back, he understood it too. “I’m sorry,” he said, his eyes darting away from hers. “I don’t know what I was thinking.” Emma swallowed, not knowing what to say. What could she say? Jordan kissed her knowing full well she hadn’t yet moved past Lenny. It was a funny way of showing support and friendship, and it gave weight to Lenny’s conviction that Jordan wasn’t over her. “There’s something I need to ask you,” she whispered, her voice rough and strained. “Promise me you’ll give me an honest answer, Jordan.” Finally, he met her gaze. “I promise.” “Do you still want to be with me?” His eyes widened momentarily before he turned away. Needing the truth, Emma turned his face to hers and silently demanded an answer. “Yes,” he growled. “I still love you. I think about you all the time and it almost killed me to see you with him. It’s killing me now knowing that you’re thinking about him even though he walked away without a fight. I hated the idea of you falling for him when he’s so undeserving of someone like you.” “Someone like me?” Seeming exasperated by her question, Jordan cupped her chin in his hand. “Someone like you. Beautiful, smart, intelligent, a goddamn sex goddess in the bedroom,” he winked, “or kitchen. Loving, warm, kind. Do you want me to continue?” “No.” Wrenching her face out of his grasp, Emma pulled back. “Lenny said you were still in love with me. I didn’t believe him.” “No,” Jordan corrected, his mouth quirking into a smile. “You didn’t want to believe him. The truth is, any man in his right mind would be glad to have you as his girlfriend or wife. I just wish you knew how to choose the right guy for you.” She frowned. “Are you saying that’s you?” Jordan sighed, long and loud. “I’m not saying that at all. I’d treat you better than Lenny, but I know now you don’t feel the same way about me anymore. You really do see me as a friend.”
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“I’m sorry,” she whispered, seeing the hurt in his eyes as he turned toward the steering wheel. “I wish I knew what to say.” “Don’t say anything, Em. Just find some way of dealing with your feelings for Lenny, will you? I can’t stand watching you pine over some guy who obviously doesn’t care.” Upstairs in her studio, Emma set up the easel and a blank canvas with shaking hands. Actually, her entire being was shaken to the core by Jordan’s kiss, his confession and his final words. But it was her hands that bore the brunt of the tremors. She dropped the canvas twice before resting it on the ledge of the easel and she squirted paint onto the drop cloths before managing to aim the liquid onto the pallet. As always, she stripped down to her briefs, opened the windows and switched off the glaring fluorescent light bulbs. In the moonlight, she took a deep breath and blew out the air with a concentrated effort. Trying to cleanse her mind of the unwanted emotional chaos, Emma closed her eyes briefly before dipping her hands in the crimson paint. Emotion and feeling took over as her hands rendered the image in her mind to the canvas before her. Reds and oranges and yellows, she created such an erotic scene that her heart boomed and her body trembled. This time the trembling felt right, like it had the first time Lenny laid his hands on her hips. Her pelvic muscles contracted at the memory while her hands continued their movements. The print taking shape in front of her cemented her conclusion. She’d been stupid to let him go. Stubborn pride and petty revenge had coalesced into the dumbest act in history. The minute the sun rose, she was going to make amends. For the moment, Emma concentrated on the work of art coming to life at the touch of her hands. Her entire body buzzed with excitement at the raw, uninhibited style of painting. She felt energy surge through her veins and understood she was on the brink of a breakthrough. She’d always been in touch with her sexuality but she’d only released it in the bedroom—or the kitchen. She’d only ever explored it with a man or herself, never allowing her mind to take the wondrous journey it now traveled. Feeling as if she’d ascended to a spiritual plane far beyond reality, Emma felt welcomed and loved, embraced for the woman she was regardless of the color and style of her hair, despite the designer labels she wore. At the most basic and fundamental level, she felt whole. Her eyes drifted shut at the intense feeling and she allowed herself to enjoy the sense of completeness coursing through her veins. As if on cue, her body reminded her what it had been like to paint with Lenny attending to her sexual needs. Her imagination took a stranglehold of her, and she didn’t even have to try to remember what it felt like to have him touch and taste while she worked on her art. God, what she wouldn’t give to have him touch her so lovingly right now.
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Emma moaned automatically, the sound erupting from her throat without her permission. Tears streamed from her eyes. She’d pushed away a blessed gift. It was a gift she now had to fetch, because living without Lenny was no longer an option. It didn’t matter what lengths she had to go to, she would make him see how right they were together and how wrong she’d been to play her games and use him as a toy. Coming down from her high, Emma opened her eyes and stared at the painting. A gasp caught in her throat at the erotic abstract before her. Oh there was nothing overtly graphic in the painting but the feeling and emotion, the colors and textures said it all. This was for her and her alone.
***** At six-fifteen on Sunday morning, two weeks since Lenny departed, Emma checked in her luggage and made her way to the terminal. She left word she was taking some personal time, though she’d pointedly ignored Jordan’s questions—correction, his interrogation of her and her plans. Her trip was no one’s business. By a quarter to seven, she was belted into her seat by the window and within half an hour, the plane taxied along the runway. As the sunrise gave light to the morning, her heart skittered about her chest, partly in fear that she was making yet another mistake and partly in eager anticipation of where she was going. Home. Melbourne, Australia. For the first time in four years, she would see her parents and her younger sister. Most importantly, she was going to rock up on Lenny’s doorstep and find out once and for all if there was any hope for them.
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Chapter Twelve Nailing the last piece of roofing into place, Lenny glanced down at his father for approval. A smile beamed on the old man’s face, warming Lenny’s insides. He obeyed the hand waving him down off the ladder. Thankfully it was the final chore to the To Do list. First he’d repaired the front steps, then oiled the decking, cleaned the barbecue, replaced the gas bottle, weeded the garden and today he finished the repairs to the back pergola. All in all, it amounted to a lot of physical labor. Lenny enjoyed every minute of it. The bonus of spending so much time with his father was somewhat tempered by the constant advice about his love life, or rather, lack thereof. Horatio meant well and, given that Lenny was the last Banks child to find a spouse, he wasn’t surprised by the litany every time he rolled around to help out with the aging house. He was yet to share with his father anything of his time with Emma, not that it stopped Horatio. No, somehow he knew exactly where to land the blows and bring Lenny’s well constructed distractions crumbling down. Out of the blue, Horatio had brought her up. He couldn’t remember her name, referring to her as “that rookie partner”. Horatio hadn’t blamed Emma for the events befalling Lenny, though he lamented how she’d suffered enormous guilt. It was strange to hear him talk so intimately about Emma. Sure Horatio had still been on active duty but he’d never worked with her. He asked his father why he never told Lenny she left the force, a question to which Horatio clammed up and remained silent. His father’s behavior left him far too curious but he left well enough alone. Now almost a week later, Lenny wanted answers. As he descended the ladder and handed the hammer to his father, he scoured his brain for a way to bring up the issue without sounding too obvious. Before he could say a word, Horatio shoved a beer in his hand. The small stubby of VB brought his thoughts back to the woman who still had a stranglehold on his heart. Even if it had been two weeks since he returned home, Emma hadn’t left his thoughts. He tried to go back to his old ways but the furthest he got with a woman was being alone. Nothing happened after that because every one of their faces reminded him of her. Frustrated, he voided any notion of calling her to check on the club, sure she’d hear the want in his voice. Childish as it might be, he couldn’t bring himself to hear the smug satisfaction in her voice when she teased him about it. Finally, he’d met his match. A woman who could trade sex for sex’s sake and not lose her heart in the process. Well, bravo, he thought sourly and took a mouthful of beer.
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The bitter brew on his tongue did nothing for the unquenched desire in his loins except remind him of the one person who seemed capable of putting out his fire. “Lenny, you all right?” his father queried, slapping his shoulder as he passed by. “Yeah, Dad, just thinking. Actually, I was wondering why you never mentioned Emma left the force. You didn’t answer my question last week. Is there something I should know?” Horatio paused, hammer in one hand, beer in the other, and turned back to Lenny. The worry in his old gray eyes had a startling effect on Lenny. “No.” “Come on,” he pleaded in exasperation. “Don’t leave me hanging in the dark. Why won’t you tell me? After all, you brought her up.” Horatio chuckled and shook his head. “Maybe we should just leave the past where it is, son. After all, it’s not like you two are still friends. Is it?” Well, no, not really. Now were they? They’d moved past friendship and into a strange kind of limbo. And in the last two weeks, he hadn’t heard a peep from her, which surprised him. She was the one who’d quipped about having an affair and remaining friends afterward. She was the one who’d teased and tormented him and then promised they’d always stay friends. He could confidently say they were no longer friends, though it felt a little anticlimactic without the screaming match that always inevitably followed one of his breakups. “I’d still like to know, Dad. I mean, she was my partner. I trusted her with my life. What do you know that I don’t?” Sighing, Horatio appeared to give in. “She got bumped down to the bottom of the food chain, drove a desk for a while before resigning. Then she just disappeared.” Setting his stubby on the brick barbecue, Lenny shook his head. “I don’t understand. What do you mean she just disappeared?” Horatio shrugged though nothing lessened the worry in the old man’s eyes. “Exactly that. Disappeared off the radar. I tried to track her down to see if I could talk her into coming back but I couldn’t find her.” Lenny found that hard to believe. His father was as good as a bloodhound, he’d have sniffed her out in no time. “Did you speak to her parents?” “Sure. They were no help, said she left the country but I could tell they were lying. They had no more clue as to her whereabouts as I did.” “They were worried?” “No,” Horatio set the hammer in the toolbox and secured the lid, “they were scared out of their minds. They feared the worst.” Taking a deep breath, Lenny took the heavy toolbox from his father and returned it to the shed. He locked up and followed Horatio into the kitchen. For someone who seemed worried about Emma, Horatio was rather calm. Perhaps there was more to the story, Lenny wondered. He closed and locked the glass sliding door and took a seat at the dining table.
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“Your story isn’t making sense,” he said, watching Horatio put the kettle on to boil. “Why?” “Because I’ve just spent two weeks with her, that’s why. She’s the security chief Rocket hired for the club in LA. She seemed pretty happy with life and she said nothing about being demoted.” Horatio looked up. “Do you honestly believe she’d tell you? She probably felt humiliated. No one treated her right after it happened, no one trusted her.” Lenny nodded sadly. “I know. That was why she quit. She became a PI.” The news got Horatio’s attention. His eyes fixed on Lenny with all the intensity of a police detective. “A PI? Here or in the US?” “Both, though she moved over there four years ago. She seemed to think her parents knew where she was.” “Maybe they were telling the truth.” His father sounded shocked. “But I’m telling you. They were scared for her.” “If I’d known about it, I would have been scared too, Dad. She was used by the PI firm, used as bait.” “What do you mean?” Taking another drag from his beer, Lenny shuddered at the information he found since coming home. He never believed her story, dead certain she’d been used as bait because she bore a resemblance to the rape victims. Digging into the case, he’d proven his theory right though he hadn’t suspected just how closely she resembled the victims. She was a dead ringer with her long blonde hair and her fair skin, blue eyes and hourglass shape. Relaying the story to his father, he watched the old man’s brow knit together in worry. “She doesn’t work for them anymore, right?” Lenny nodded. “Right.” “You’re still worried, son.” Their conversation was cut short by the whistle of the kettle. Plucking it from the stove, Horatio poured the boiling water into two mugs, turning brown powder into instant coffee. The aroma filled the air, helping Lenny forget where the conversation was going. He didn’t want to talk to his father about what had happened between him and Emma. Lord, he’d die of embarrassment. “I haven’t said anything because I don’t want to pry,” Horatio continued, setting the steaming mug in front of Lenny. Lenny’s mouth quirked into a smile. “Since when? You’re always prying, old man,” Lenny slapped his upper arm, “but I still love you for it.” “Good, because now I’m really going to get stuck into you. You see, I’ve noticed something different about you and I figured it had to do with the LA trip. You’re calmer, more relaxed. You seem like you’ve found the thing you’ve been looking for ever since the shooting.” 122
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“What’s that?” Lenny dared, watching his father set the coffee mug right next to the can of beer. Such an odd contrast but the weirdness of it paled into nothingness compared to his father’s next word. “Love.” Choking, Lenny almost knocked his can off the table. He coughed to clear his throat and scratched his temple. “Come again?” “You heard me,” was all Horatio would say. “You think I’m in love with Emma?” “I didn’t say it was Emma, son, but she might have something to do with it. Actually, I think you’ve found yourself again. It’s like you’ve been drifting these last few years, trying to find your niche. I know you think you’ve got it all made working for Rocket, but in the last two weeks you’ve seemed happier than ever.” What Horatio didn’t know was that Lenny’s change of attitude had everything to do with Emma. Yeah, he found himself all right but he learned in the most basic of ways how powerfully his life was connected to hers. Being with her and feeling so alive showed the truth of his father’s statement. He had been drifting, cast out into the unstable waves of reality with no lifeline. Until Emma reached out and hauled him back into the land of the living. Lenny sighed. He needed to get a grip. Emma was gone and nothing he did could change that. She’d set out to show him the error of his ways and boy had she succeeded. Not only did he see how much of a heel he’d been, he saw all the wasted opportunities, all the lost happiness he’d been within reach of. In teaching him her lesson, she’d unwittingly won his love. Or at least, he thought so because she’d also somehow made it glaringly obvious that he’d never really been in love. Sure, he loved his father, brothers and Robyn, and in his own strange way, he actually loved Rocket’s friendship. But he understood now he’d never been in love with a woman. He understood how to treat a woman, how to touch and satisfy her. He knew what ticked her off, what pleased her, what he wanted from her. He even thought he would one day find one to date more than a few times. Lenny never counted on feeling so completely owned and loved by a woman. He’d never considered the idea that despite the horror and pain of his mother’s murder, he would want to wake up beside the same woman everyday. The potential risk of losing her no longer made him want to run. The trick was finding the right one. After two weeks with Emma, Lenny wondered if he hadn’t somehow accidentally stumbled onto the one. “Lenny?” “I think you might be right,” he admitted, his voice barely audible above the lawnmower that had sprung to life in a neighbor’s yard. When he raised his head, he saw pity in his father’s expression. “But I think I screwed things up.”
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“Nothing is ever unfixable,” his father said firmly. “But only you can do something about it.” Lenny shrugged, unconvinced and feeling despondent. He thought he’d found a way to deal with his need to be with her again but clearly, he was wrong.
***** “We need to talk.” Rocket’s head snapped up as he closed the appointment diary. “What is it, Lenny?” Lenny closed the door and entered the heart of Rocket’s office at the Air Lounge in Melbourne. He slumped down in one of the black wing chairs, avoiding Rocket’s gaze. “I’ve done something terrible.” The smile on his boss’s face didn’t agree but then, he hadn’t heard the truth yet. “I’m sure it’s not that bad. Besides, I can help.” Laughing sinisterly, Lenny stood again and began pacing to work off the nervous energy. He had to admit to his boss he’d broken the rules of fraternization, that he’d slept with a coworker and that was why they couldn’t get a hold of Emma. It was Tuesday morning, two weeks since he left L.A. and he hadn’t been able to track her down. All Jordan would say was she’d taken personal time. Further questioning of her right-hand man revealed zero information. Not even Rocket could pry any further details. Jordan wouldn’t fill them in on how she was going, what her mood was like, or whether she was happy. He gave them nothing. Rocket wasn’t worried but Lenny suspected he could change that blasé attitude with his confession. He didn’t want to do it, didn’t want to put his neck on the chopping block. Less because he was concerned about his career and more concerned because he wanted to keep Emma all to himself. Sharing her and their memories left him feeling raw and vulnerable. “Lenny, would you sit down? You’re starting to make me dizzy, man.” He shook his head and scratched his itchy palm. His superstitious nature wondered if that spelled his doom. “I know why you can’t find Emma.” “Okay, I’ll play.” Rocket sighed, sounding as if he were talking to a five-year-old. “Why can’t I find Emma?” Lenny’s pacing came to a halt. “This isn’t a game, Rocket. I’ve done something that I think is going to bite us all in the ass.” Rocket’s smile faded. “What are you talking about?” Lenny sucked in a deep breath. “You can’t find Emma because of me.” “Quit with the cryptic clues and spill the bloody beans. Why has one of my prized employees done a runner?” “Because I slept with her.”
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Seconds ticked by as Rocket blinked, comprehension stealing across his face. Rather than berate Lenny, Rocket smiled and stood. Crossing the room, he positioned himself in front of Lenny and stared at him hard. “You and she had…” He shook his head. “And this is a problem because?” “Because she now hates me and is taking it out on you. She’ll resign and disappear, just like before.” Rocket gripped his shoulders. “Slow down, take a deep breath.” He waited as Lenny did so. “Good. Now start from the beginning.” Lenny blurted the entire story in one long sentence, not pausing once for air. When he was done, he was drained and painfully close to admitting he loved her. With Rocket’s help, he sank into a chair and scrubbed his hands over the stubble on his chin. “I really screwed up, I’m so sorry.” “Nah!” Rocket sat on the edge of his desk and picked up the phone. “I don’t think it’s as bad as you’re making it out to be. What’s the bet she’s actually taking some time out to get her head straight? What’s the bet she’s as shaken up over you as you are over her?” Lenny laughed. “Uh-uh. You didn’t see how cool and calm she was. She walked away without looking back. Just like I’ve done hundreds of times with other women.” Rocket patted Lenny’s tense shoulder and brought the receiver to his ear. “Relax, Lenny. You’re blowing this way out of proportion. Remember who you’re talking to, eh? Robyn walked away from me too, left me to drown my sorrows in booze. If I recall, you were there to haul my ass back from the brink.” Rocket winked. “Let me return the favor.” Deeply hesitant, Lenny could only listen as Rocket prepped the jet for takeoff, back to LA. “You’re gonna go and find her, make her see reason, Lenny. Don’t let her get away.” Easier said than done, he thought glumly, especially when she wanted nothing to do with him. How was he supposed to convince her he was ready for more than sexual encounters? She wouldn’t believe he’d be willing to give his heart to her, not after witnessing his continual one-night stands, flings and failed breakups. Emma was too smart to allow herself to be sucked in by his charm. “You’re going to LA. Get your bag packed and meet me at the airport in two hours,” Rocket instructed, slamming the phone down. He peered down at Lenny with a look Lenny read as tough determination. “Go get your woman.”
***** His heart thudded against his ribs for the first six hours of the flight. Any thought of resting and conserving his energies for the job of convincing Emma to come home with him were quashed. He couldn’t close his eyes, wouldn’t take his mind off the task at hand. He’d even resorted to writing his speech down, scribbling words on a note pad
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and then crossing them out, tearing out the piece of paper and balling it when he wasn’t satisfied. At the halfway point of the flight, he was joined by his sister Robyn as she took a break from piloting. He sensed her empathy but insisted he was fine. “Is that why there are a dozen paper balls over there?” she asked, pointing toward the secured trash can surrounded by his failed attempts. Lenny groaned. So far, he’d failed at writing the speech and now he couldn’t score a goal if his life depended on it. The metaphor there didn’t bode well for him. “Relax,” Robyn said softly, touching his arm and drawing his attention. “Whether it’s written down or not, it only matters if it’s from the heart. I should know.” At the gentle reminder of her experience, he sighed and let his tense shoulders slump. His neck creaked and yelped as he tried to stretch out the bunched muscles. He’d never been this nervous in his entire life. Nothing compared. Joining the force, graduating, walking the beat, bagging his first perp—none of it came close. “Jesus.” He sighed. “I can’t believe how nervous I am. What do you reckon that’s about?” Robyn smiled. He loved her pretty face, so much like their mother’s it was sometimes painful to look. But she’d grown wise of late, wiser than he could ever imagine being. He suspected it had something to do with leaving the air force and finding her place in society by her husband’s side, but he was sure there was more to it. “It’s because you want this so badly, because you love her. No one likes being rejected.” He chuffed. “I do love her but I don’t think she’ll believe it. I’ve spent too much of my life dodging my emotions, dodging the L-word and she knows it. It scares me she knows me so well.” “Maybe.” Robyn nodded. “I understand but it can be a damn good thing too, a godsend if you like, to have someone know who you truly are.” “That’s just it, she knows I’m a womanizer, that I sleep with women but never commit. How is that going to help me right now?” Robyn thought over his question for a moment and when her eyes met his, he wondered if he would like what she had to say. “I think she understands more about you than you do, brother. Give her some credit.” He shook his head and sighed. How Robyn could claim she knew anything of Emma was beyond him. Okay, they were both women but they were about as similar to each other as the north and south poles were close. Just having female intuition didn’t give Robyn anymore insight into Emma than he had. “You need to rest.” She patted his shoulder and stood. “Do try to sleep.”
***** On Wednesday morning, Emma joined her mother for breakfast. They hadn’t spoken much since her flight landed late and the taxi had taken her on an unwanted 126
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scenic tour of Melbourne before taking her home. Of course her parents welcomed her with open arms, but she saw the tension in their eyes and felt the wariness in their embrace. She knew she had some making up to do. Dropping a bombshell like hey Mum and Dad, I’ve quit the force and I’m flying to America tomorrow and then moving out of the country, didn’t exactly leave a pleasant taste in the mouth. They worried. She expected them to. They tried to talk her out of it. She deflected their concerns. When they reminded her she was going through a rough patch and would get over it someday, she stormed out. Returning home in the dead of night four years later and waking her parents with her incessant knocking hadn’t made things much better. Appearing on their doorstep without forewarning certainly hadn’t made for a smooth homecoming. “Weet-bix?” Emma smiled. “Yes please. Thanks for sending it to me all these years.” Her mother, Rhonda, smiled. The worry lines in her forehead were deep, the laugh lines at the corners of her eyes too shallow. Emma wanted to apologize for causing so much pain but every time she tried, the words jammed in her throat and she ended up sputtering incoherent sounds. Emma watched the way her mother glided about the small kitchen, pleased she looked quite well. It was her father who made her do a double take last night. His hair had turned ghostly white, his eyes were sad and sunken and his skin had grown deathly pale. No one said anything but Emma feared the worst. “How have you been, Mum?” Rhonda smiled. “We’re good, honey. We’re glad you’re home.” “No.” Emma let her smile fade. “How have you really been? Dad looks ill. Is he okay?” Approaching the table with a bowl of cereal and a bottle of milk, Rhonda’s eyes turned sad. “Your father hasn’t been well.” “Is it because of me?” Turning a sympathetic gaze on Emma, Rhonda touched her fingertips to her cheek. She almost melted at the touch, at the expression pleading with her not to go away again. “His heart is failing, dear. That’s not your fault.” His heart was failing? Peter Kingston had always been as strong as an ox. Emma couldn’t remember him ever being sick with a cold, let alone a major illness. How could this be? She wanted to march upstairs to his office and demand he tell her everything, but who was she to do so? She’d taken off at the drop of a hat, done something so uncharacteristic as quitting her job and flitting off overseas. Who was she to demand answers? “I’m sorry,” she said softly. “Is there anything they can do for him?”
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Rhonda shook her head sadly. “Only a transplant will save him. But,” she brightened a little and smiled, “your being here will do him the world of good. How long are you staying?” Emma’s heart lurched. She had no idea. She hadn’t even told them why she’d come home. “I don’t know,” she offered, honesty her only gift. “I still have a job to do in LA.” Rather than appear disappointed, her mother nodded quietly and shrugged. “Whatever you can manage, dear. What are your plans for today?” “I need to see my boss,” she lied. How easily she could swing from honest truth to outright lie scared her. “And then I’ll spend my time here with you and Dad.” “Very well. Don’t forget to go and see your sister, eh? She’s going to be over the moon to see you.” Somehow, Emma didn’t really think so. Jessica, her younger sister, hadn’t held back on her disappointment with Emma’s new job and new country. She’d yelled and screamed, berated Emma for letting the family down. In truth, she’d been the voice for her family because her parents were simply too polite to use such words. “I will.” At a little after ten, Emma caught a taxi back to Tullamarine, directing the driver to the club with a warning that if he screwed her over, he’d be sorry. Along the way, he asked if she was Australian or American, the question throwing her for a loop. Her accent hadn’t changed that much, had it? According to the driver, it had a Yankee twang and she couldn’t help but wonder if taxi driver number one hadn’t taken her for a ride because of it. At the club, she paid the cab fare. It was too early for patrons, so the entire strip of airport entertainment venues stood abandoned. At the door, she announced who she was to the bulky guy, providing identification when he shook his head. “Just call Rocket,” she instructed, keeping the exchange as a reference point for security at the LA club. “He’ll see me.” One phone call and two minutes later, Rocket met her at the door. The expression on his face was priceless, so she knew she’d caught him off guard. She just hoped Lenny would be as happy to see her. “Come to my office.” He motioned for her to follow and when they were behind closed doors, he hugged her. “What the hell are you doing here, Emma?” She gulped. “I came to…” she paused. Aside from seeing Lenny, she had no reason to be here. How could she explain that to Rocket? She blinked, hating the mess she’d created. “I…” He smiled. “You came to see Lenny?” Nodding, she allowed him to direct her to a winged leather chair. He pulled a second one around so he could face her but she felt so numb she wasn’t sure what to say. “Yes, Lenny.”
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Before he sat, Rocket raced over to the counter where a coffee pot stood. He poured her a cup, left it black and brought it to her. Accepting the cup, she swallowed a mouthful and then grimaced. It was way too early for coffee. “Emma?” She raised her eyes to him and hoped like hell he wasn’t about to fire her. “Lenny’s not here. Actually,” Rocket’s mouth jerked into a broad grin as a sparkle twinkled in his eye. “He’s not even in the country right now.” Her hopes were dashed. How would she ever win Lenny over if she couldn’t even find him? “Damn.” “Yes, damn all right. He’s gone to LA, to see you.” “Huh?” she asked dumbly. Rocket grinned. “Yeah, he told me about you two, which by the way, I think is fantastic. But you disappeared and Jordan wouldn’t give us any information, so I sent Lenny to find you. It never occurred to me you’d come here.” Speechless, Emma could only scratch her head. “He was worried about me?” “Oh.” Rocket took her coffee cup and put it on the desk. Taking her hands in his, he smiled warmly into her eyes. “He’s not just worried, Emma. He,” Rocket shook his head, “no, I should let him explain it. Hold on.” He leapt to the phone and began frantically punching in numbers. After what seemed like an eternity, he held the phone out to her. Emma stood. Hands shaking, heart thumping, she took the receiver and put it to her ear. “Emma?” Air rushed out of her lungs at the sound of Lenny’s voice. He sounded so concerned she had to smile. Behind her, the door clicked and when she turned, she found herself alone. “Emma? Is that you?” “Yes,” she whispered. She cleared her throat. “I’m here, Lenny.” He sighed, sounding inexplicably relieved. “You’re in Melbourne.” She smiled. “And you’re in LA.” He laughed, the sound easing the squeeze around her heart. “Well, I never expected that.” “No,” she agreed, holding the phone receiver so tight her fingers ached. She didn’t want to hang up. “Lenny, why are you in LA?” Again he laughed, light and carefree. “I came for you, came to tell you that I love you. I came to convince you to come home with me so we could figure out what the hell’s going on between us.” Emma’s head spun, her dizziness forcing her back down into her chair. He loved her? Was he capable of love? How could he change so dramatically? He was asking her to believe he could give up his philandering ways, trust in him to be honest and loyal to her.
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“Emma, I know it’s a lot to ask. I don’t exactly have the best track record. But after two weeks with you, I haven’t been able to think of another woman. I went out, but all I thought about was you. I thought about us, together.” “That’s easy to say when you’re on the other side of the world,” she heard herself say. “I know, Em, I know. But I had planned on saying it in person. Did anyone know you were flying to Australia?” She closed her eyes in shame. “No. I didn’t even know I was going to do it until I was on the plane.” “Why? Why did you get on the plane?” She heard the anticipation in his voice and thought about toying with it. In the end, all she could think about was being back in his arms. “Because I fell in love with you.” “You didn’t want me to go any more than I wanted to go, right?” “Right. When you said you wanted to stay…” “Don’t,” he said softly. “Don’t torture yourself. I think I understand what you were doing and I’m not angry with you.” “Thank you.” “Don’t thank me.” He chuckled. “Thank yourself. You showed me what I really want.” With her heart bouncing out of control in her chest, Emma voiced the one word question fighting to get out. “What?” “You, I want you. I can’t promise the world but I can promise I’ll try. You know me, Em.” “Yeah.” She sighed. “I do.” “Good. Now stay put because I’m coming home.”
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Chapter Thirteen Emerging from the air tunnel, he expected to be greeted by Emma. Instead, he got Rocket. After twenty-eight hours in the air, the intense jet-lag turned him into a rather nasty character. He didn’t return Rocket’s smile and he barely grumbled a greeting, but he was glad his friend didn’t hold it against him. “Why are you here? I was hoping to see Emma.” Rocket squeezed Lenny’s upper arm. “I know but she’s spent the last two days in the hospital.” Lenny’s head almost exploded. “What?” “Relax,” Rocket said evenly, his steady gaze keeping Lenny from biting the man’s head off. “She’s fine. It’s her father.” As they started walking, Rocket took Lenny’s single piece of luggage. The gesture was so warm and comforting it left Lenny feeling like a mongrel for his foul mood. “From what I can gather, his heart is slowly failing. He’s needed a replacement for almost a year.” Rocket shook his head sadly. “The doctors aren’t giving him much time.” Lenny wanted to break into a run and get to the hospital as fast as possible. He didn’t envy the position she was in, and he wasn’t even sure what he would say to her. The only thing he knew for certain was that he had to be by her side. In Rocket’s car, Lenny toyed with the idea of calling Emma but she wouldn’t be permitted to have her mobile phone on, especially if her father was in the cardiac unit. The trip was too long and he irrationally complained about the airport being so far out of the city. “Relax,” Rocket said calmly. “We’ll be there soon, Lenny.” “Relax?” Lenny wanted to strangle the cool cucumber sitting behind the wheel. “Emma’s dad might die before we get there and you want me to relax? You’re nuts.” The corner of Rocket’s mouth twitched but he said nothing more as they reached the busy inner city traffic. Clogged roads weren’t helping Lenny’s nerves, nor was the way time seemed to stretch out as they slowed to a crawl. “I could walk faster than this,” he grumbled. Even though Melbourne was the only place he would choose to live, he despised city traffic. No matter the time of day, the roads were always teeming with impatient drivers tooting and hollering. It was why he chose to live in an outer suburb, where people were still courteous and patient.
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Right now though, Lenny’s patience reached snapping point. If they didn’t arrive at the hospital anytime soon, he thought he might actually leap out of the car and run the remaining distance. “Here we go,” Rocket announced, pulling into the multistory parking lot next to the hospital. “Now before we go in—” Lenny groaned at the lecture he was about to get. “Are you even listening?” Lenny nodded obediently, if only to get them on their feet sooner. “Yes.” “There is a very real possibility that her father will die before they find a donor heart. Whatever you and Emma need to sort out should probably wait, okay?” The serious expression in Rocket’s eyes pleaded with Lenny to put Emma’s needs and her family first. He couldn’t argue, determined to provide her with support and whatever else she needed. Nodding, he assured Rocket he’d do the right thing and they got out of the car. Taking the lift and weaving their way down the winding corridors seemed to take an eternity. He had no idea what to expect from Emma, sure she would surprise him regardless, but when he finally laid eyes on her, Lenny’s heart lurched. Her puffy red eyes barely registered his presence, while her ashen skin left her looking so vulnerable. He didn’t need to think about what he’d do, he simply acted on instinct and went to her. Wrapping her up in his embrace, he held her tight, stroked her soft hair and pressed a warm kiss to her temple. Lenny didn’t care how long he had to hold her or what he had to do to help her through this time. He just knew he didn’t want to be anywhere else. While he held her, her mother nodded approval of his presence before disappearing into the private room. They had met once before, the day of Emma’s graduation. He’d met her father too and understood in one short meeting how much Emma’s parents adored her. He couldn’t help but wonder how long her father had been ill, and whether Emma knew about it while she was in the States. If she’d known, he suspected she would never have stayed a minute longer than she had to. He also suspected that had she known, they would never have reunited. “Em?” He stroked her hair, wiped her tears with the pad of his thumb and waited for her to raise her face to his. “How are you holding up?” She only shook her head. More tears fell, further squeezing his heart. He tried to put himself in her shoes but since his mother’s death, he hadn’t experienced the death of a close relative. Even on the job he’d been spared the loss of anyone in his circle of colleagues. It shocked him to think he’d lived for twenty years in relative harmony, his soul undisturbed until his own brush with his maker. Despite coming so close himself, Lenny only feared losing those he loved. As a result, he’d spent years finding and inventing ways of excusing himself from reality, the inescapable fact that sooner or later death came for us all. And while the fear never
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really lessened, the grip it had on his heart had been replaced by the need to enrich his life with more than just fleeting encounters of the flesh. Suddenly, it was all too important for his heart to feel alive, to be wanted for more than pure physical release. Emma had wanted him that way once and he silently prayed she still wanted him around for more than a two-week affair. “Don’t worry.” He smiled, again wiping away her tears. “You don’t have to say anything. I’m here now.” Circling her arms around his neck, Emma hugged him tight and pressed her lips to his ear. “Thank you.”
***** Emma jolted awake at the sounds of alarm bells ringing. Sitting bolt upright, she shook off sleep and made for the door to her father’s room. All her worst fears screamed in her mind. It was time, her father was dying at this very moment and she had to get to him. Crossing the hall, she felt strong hands on her arms bring her to a standstill before Lenny’s warmth pressed against her back. “It’s okay,” he said soothingly, his voice smoothing out the crinkles in her nervous system. “He’s fine. It’s another patient down the hall.” The thought her father could have passed away while she slept made her sick. She hadn’t slept since he’d been admitted. She’d returned home, safe in the knowledge Lenny was on his way home to her, to find an ambulance in the drive and paramedics tending to her father. She’d been awake for almost two days, resting only because Lenny insisted. She let him lead her back to the uncomfortable hard plastic chairs and sank into his embrace, thankful he was here. It was ludicrous to feel like everything was going to be okay just because Lenny’s arms held her tight. “How long was I asleep?” she asked, tilting her face up to stare into those beautiful, warm eyes. Lenny’s luscious lips quirked into a smile. “About forty-five minutes.” “It felt longer.” He nodded and cupped her chin. His skin felt soft, his scent comforting and those eyes, she could just melt at the way he looked at her. Lenny never looked at anyone that way, she was certain. She wanted to ask what was different, what changed for him, but her exhausted brain wasn’t cooperating. “You fell into a deep sleep,” he whispered. “Like the sleep of someone who’s been awake and tired and afraid.” Emma let her eyes drift shut at the truth behind his statement. Afraid? Hell yes. Her father was on the brink of death, there was nothing she could do and it was her fault. If she’d never left and never worried them as much as she had, he wouldn’t be lying, dying in the hospital. 133
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“He’s going to die,” she managed, her throat jammed with emotion and struggling to find its voice. “Because of me.” Lenny’s body tensed. “You?” Opening her eyes, Emma nodded. “Yes, me. I did this.” Lenny grimaced. “No, baby. This is not your fault. You didn’t make his heart this way. It just is.” The doctor said the same thing but it didn’t change Emma’s mind. “If I hadn’t left, hadn’t made him worry so much, he’d be fine. My dad wouldn’t be dying, Lenny.” Lenny made a small noise before dragging her against his chest and holding her so tight she couldn’t breathe. No matter how hard she tried to stop them, more tears dropped from her eyes. She should be all cried out by now, she thought angrily, because the tears hadn’t stopped in two days. Her mother tried to reason with her but Emma was adamant. It was only her sister Jessica who agreed Emma was to blame. She’d made her feelings known the minute she confronted her at the hospital, berating her for the long absence, the lack of phone calls and the silence. Jessica spoke her mind and though it hurt, Emma was thankful for the brutal honesty her sister delivered. For someone so young, Jess seemed to have matured far beyond Emma’s years. “Em?” Lenny pulled back and held her by the shoulders as he stared into her eyes. “Please don’t blame yourself. Yes, he probably worried about you but it couldn’t do this much damage. Even the doctor said so. You have to step back and see reality here.” “Reality?” Who was he to talk about reality? “You don’t know what you’re talking about.” He nodded even though she pushed away and stood up. The sudden movement caused her light head to sway a little, bringing Lenny to his feet and steadying her with a palm to her hip. “Oh yeah, I know exactly what I’m talking about Emma. You’re the one who taught me a lesson in reality not so long ago.” She blinked, dumbfounded, but he went on. “I’ve been hiding from real life all these years. I’m the one who’s been living in fear of losing anyone I love, so I keep my affairs short and never stick around. That way, I won’t get hurt in here.” He thumped his chest, his eyes full of intense emotion and holding her gaze. “I always feared I would lose my girlfriend or wife the way my dad lost my mum. I believed it came with the job.” Emma swallowed hard. “Lenny, your mum was murdered.” He snickered. “I always thought it was because my dad was a cop. That someone was out to get him, only they hit him where it hurt the most. I was determined to protect myself, that’s why I never let my heart get involved with any of the women I dated. I didn’t think I could live with myself if I let a woman get hurt because of what I did.” She frowned. “So what’s changed? Why are things different?”
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In an instant, the anger disappeared from his face. It was replaced by a smile and what looked to be serenity. Emma couldn’t believe he could change so easily, so quickly. “My mother wasn’t murdered by some crook wanting a piece of my father. Her murder was totally random. But there’s something else, Emma.” He stepped to within an inch of her, his heat crossing the tiny distance, calling to her. “Since being with you, I know now that I’d rather live my life in love than in fear. Losing you could very well break my heart but living without you might just kill me.” Her breath caught in her throat when she tried to speak. Lenny only shook his head as one hand slipped around her waist to draw her against him, while the fingers of the other gently traced her lips. “What’s done is done, Em. You can’t change the past, no matter how much you might dislike it. The only thing you can do now is make sure you live for the moment. Tell your father you’re sorry if you have to but if he’s the man I remember, he won’t blame you any more than I do. You just have to tell him how much you love him, how much you’ll miss him when he’s gone. Don’t hold back.” An unexpected smile crept onto her lips, lifting her spirits. “Like you?” He chuffed. “I’m not holding back anymore, Em, especially with you.” “I—” “Emma.” Cut short by her mother’s firm voice, Emma turned as her heart leapt into her throat. “Your father is asking for you.” Fear seized her heart as it dawned on her he was saying goodbye. He knew his time was up but after so long away, Emma wasn’t ready to let him go. She didn’t know how her mother could be so calm about it. “I don’t know if I can,” she offered weakly, shaking her head. “It’s too early.” Stepping over, Rhonda clasped Emma’s hands tightly and peered into her eyes. “I understand you don’t want to see him looking so ill, sweetheart, but time is short. You can do this, Emma, I have faith in you.” Faith? Emma wondered how her mother could still believe in her after all the mistakes she’d made. “You can do this,” Lenny whispered, giving her a gentle push toward the door. “You’re going to be okay, Em.” With her heart thumping in her chest and her palms growing sweaty, Emma floated rather than walked. The sensation of moving disappeared as the door drew near. She had to say goodbye to her dad, the last farewell they’d ever make. It wasn’t fair, she wanted to scream and rage, plead for more time but she couldn’t fix this. Regardless of how resourceful and intelligent she was, she was ill-equipped to resolve his condition. Feeling helpless, Emma pushed the door to her father’s room open.
*****
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Lenny could only watch as Emma disappeared into the hospital room. When they were alone, her mother touched his arm gently. “It means a lot that you’re here, Lenny.” She smiled. “I know Emma could do with your support.” “What about you?” he asked softly, indescribably moved by the welcoming look in Rhonda’s eyes. “Can I get you some coffee?” “No,” she moved over to the plastic seats and settled herself quietly, “I’m fine. Peter and I came to terms with this a while ago. The truth is, even a transplant may not save him. We’ve said our goodbyes, as has Jessica. Now it’s just Emma, only I fear she’s taking this too personally.” Taking up a seat beside Rhonda, Lenny wondered if she understood the level of guilt Emma carried. He sensed she was a wise woman, one who cared very deeply for her family and who was perhaps feeling a little powerless when it came to Emma. Where Jessica openly relied on her parents and was never afraid to ask for anything, Emma was much more reserved. She had always been self-reliant, maddeningly so. He remembered her first day on the job, insisting she was ready and street tough. Hell, she’d even convinced him before long, which he supposed was why he’d led her into the docks when he should have called for backup. “She is, isn’t she?” Rhonda’s voice brought him out of his memory. “She feels as if she’s responsible,” he agreed. “Of course she’s not, but she won’t hear of it.” Rhonda smiled. “Her father will put an end to that, you’ll see.” Lenny doubted it but he wasn’t arguing. Rhonda and Emma needed support, and since Jessica had already made her feelings known before disappearing, Lenny decided it was his responsibility. “You just let me know if there’s anything I can do,” he offered, patting her hand while staring at the closed hospital room door. He hoped Emma was okay.
***** Peter Kingston had always been a big and strong man. He’d never looked frail, never appeared vulnerable and professed to have found the fountain of youth. Right now, he was the complete opposite of everything she remembered. Even the thin, bony hand holding hers seemed totally unfamiliar. Perhaps the most haunting thing about him was the look in his eyes. The bloodshot whites were teary, the irises less intense than ever and his pupils were stretched wide in the dim light. Despite the pain he obviously endured, he still smiled at her and tried to reassure her. “I’m so sorry, Dad,” she said softly. “I should never have left.” “No, Emma. You should never be sorry. It was a choice you made with the knowledge you had. You weren’t to know that I was already sick by then.” 136
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The news should’ve eased some of her burden but it didn’t. Instead, she felt worse because if she’d known he was ill, she would never have left the country. Why didn’t he understand that? “I would have stayed.” He smiled, the gesture weak but true. “And I would have felt terrible for stopping you. It seems to me you needed to follow your heart.” Funny how that had led her right back home, she thought. “But if we knew sooner…” He shook his head gently. “There was nothing anyone could do, Em. At the time, your mother and I adjusted our diet and took up extra walking. We’ve lived as healthy as possible. You must believe me.” “I’m trying.” She squeezed his hand. “Your mother tells me Lenny’s out there, that you two have been working together again. Is that true?” Emma nodded, although another errant tear formed at the thought of Lenny’s last speech. She wanted to believe him, to accept he’d changed his ways, she just didn’t know how. One thing was for certain, living without him scared her to death. “What is it, honey?” “I love him,” she confessed. “Totally, with everything I have. But you remember what he was like.” Her father chuckled, though the sound was terribly soft. “I remember that he was never far from your side, Emma, that he treated you like a queen.” Without warning, heat rushed to her cheeks. “It was because he treated me like a sister. That’s all.” “Maybe, but he only ever wanted to protect you. I must thank him for that. Why don’t you bring him in?” “Are you sure?” He rolled his eyes and shooed her away. “Go and get him.” Opening the door, Emma’s heart almost stopped as she took in the sight of Lenny tending to her sleeping mother. From somewhere he’d procured a blanket and a pillow and had made her as comfortable as the seating would allow. He looked up, as if sensing her presence and smiled. He had the most beautiful smile a man could have, she decided, and wondered absently if her children would wear a similar one. “Everything okay?” he asked, standing wonderfully close. Emma took his hand and drew him into the room. Reluctant, he came in only as far as the door until her father beckoned them closer. “Good to see you again, son.” Lenny shook the outstretched hand. “How are you doing, sir?”
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Peter chuckled. “It’s Peter and I’m as good as can be expected, considering. Now I asked you in here to talk about you and Emma.” Her cheeks heated and her mouth dried up at the thought her father was going to ask Lenny his intentions. Lord but she thought she’d shrivel up of embarrassment. To his credit, Lenny kept a straight face, glancing from her father to her and then back again. “Dad—” Emma tried to intervene but Lenny hushed her when his hand found hers again. “I intend to marry her,” he declared while staring unwaveringly into her eyes. “If she’ll have me. I love her, sir.” Peter smiled, seemingly satisfied by Lenny’s response to the unbidden question. “Good. And you both give us all a lot of grandkids, you hear?” With the extra effort, Peter closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep. They stayed in the room, Emma taking solace in listening to his breathing while he slept. Lenny rubbed comforting circles over her back before hugging her from behind. “I mean it,” he said softly. “I do want to marry you. God,” he sighed, “the thought of not spending the rest of my life with you just hurts, Em.” Turning her head, she smiled when he cupped her cheek and pressed his lips to hers. “I have a confession to make, Lenny. It could change things.” He blinked skeptically. “I doubt it.” “I kissed Jordan.” Far from pushing him away, her confession only seemed to draw him closer. “You kissed him? Or he kissed you? Not that it matters, because you’re here in my arms. I don’t care, Em, I just need to know that you love me, that you’ll marry me and that we’ll make your old man’s dying wish come true. What do you say?” “I love you, that’s why I came home. And yes, I’ll marry you.”
***** After three days, her father died in his sleep. Together, they spent the entire time at the hospital, taking turns at being by his bedside. Emma read to him while Lenny told him stories of their adventures as cops. It was Emma by his side when his heart finally gave out and when she emerged from the room, he was never so glad to see her face. “Are you okay?” She nodded, still a little shaky. “It’s Mum I’m worried about.” “Don’t,” he encouraged, hugging her fiercely. “Your mum’s a fighter. She’ll be okay. What about your sister?” He felt her shrug against his chest. “I haven’t even seen Jess since we admitted Dad to hospital.”
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“We’ll worry about that later, okay? Right now, I’m going to take you back to my place so you can get some real sleep.” Sighing against him, she didn’t argue. She let him lead her out to a waiting taxi and then snuggled into his embrace for the ride home. He knew she was in a state of shock but he wanted her to talk to him, tell him exactly what she felt. Not hearing her voice or seeing the sparkle in her eye worried him. In the foyer of his large, two story home, Emma waited while he took her coat. Amazing how the place never really felt like home until she walked through the door. Her eyes followed his every move until he stopped and looked at her expectantly. “What?” “Just wondering if we’ll be married as long as my parents, if we’ll be there for each other right to the end.” Lenny didn’t stop the smile that formed on his lips. Stepping over to her, he directed her into the living room and brought them to a stop at the wall where he’d hung her paintings. “Does that answer your question?” She stared up at the two prints, her hand searching for his. “I have another one for you,” she said softly. “Although I think it’s best we hang it in the master bedroom.” When he queried her with a look, she blushed. He couldn’t wait to see the painting but for now, he intended on showing her one more thing before putting her to bed. “Come with me,” he said, leading her by the hand up the stairs to a room at the back of the house overlooking the rear yard. “Oh, Lenny,” she breathed, stepping into the room. “You did this for me?” He nodded and leaned against the doorjamb to watch her inspect the recently finished art studio. “Just for you, babe.” In the center of the room stood an easel. Beside it, a table upon which stood dozens of small paint pots. Blank canvases were stacked in the corner of the room, waiting for her loving touch. White drop sheets covered the floor and the curtains were pulled open wide to showcase his lush green garden. Her reaction took his breath away. “I want you to feel right at home,” he finished. She turned and bolted toward him, leaping into his arms and kissing him. Her lips on his felt so good that he deepened the kiss, letting his tongue slide into her warm mouth to tangle with hers. Her arms around his neck held on tight, while he molded his hands to her behind and pulled her pelvis against his. “Home,” she moaned. “I like the sound of that, Lenny.” He pulled back. “What about LA?” “Jordan can do the job,” she said blithely. “Or whoever Rocket decides can replace me. I don’t care. I belong here, with you. Just like you said.” He smiled. “Just like I said, eh?” He remembered the words, though at the time he hadn’t meant it the way he did now. But it didn’t matter. Either way, they were
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together. “You need some rest,” he insisted, reluctantly removing a hand from her rump to smooth it over her hair. She closed her eyes at the touch and moaned softly. “I love it when you touch me,” she breathed, the hot air from her lungs caressing his face. “I don’t want it to stop. Come to bed with me.” He didn’t need to be asked twice. Swinging her into his arms, he carried her into their room and set her carefully on the big four-poster king-sized bed. Her curves against the plush white comforter drew his gaze though he made no move. Lenny knelt beside her and silently gazed down on his beautiful woman. His heart beat erratically in his chest while the significance of the moment floored him. “You’re the first woman I’ve brought home,” he confessed, the act all too easy. “First and only.” Emma reached for him. “Boy oh boy have you got a way with words.” She smiled before bringing him down for another kiss. Without a word, Lenny lay down on the bed and nodded satisfactorily when she fitted against him, her curves meeting his exactly. “That’s better,” he hummed. “No,” she huffed, sitting up to straddle his hips. “This is better.” She smiled and rested against his chest to caress his face. “You’ve been so wonderful, so supportive, Lenny. Thank you.” Returning her soft touch, he felt his chest expand with pride at the way she’d handled the events of the last week. It was easy now to envision her in his life, to feel her beside him everyday for as long as possible. “You’re welcome.” Leaning her face close to his, she smiled and brushed her lips against his. “Make love to me, Lenny.” “But—” She shook her head. “I need you.” Rolling them, he settled on top of her. She was exhausted, weary from watching her father pass away and yet she still wanted to please him. “I love you,” he whispered, slanting his mouth across hers in a slow, deep and loving kiss. “We’ve got all the time in the world, baby, right now you need to rest. Don’t you worry, I’ll make love to you for the rest of your life.”
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Epilogue The place looked like a bomb hit it. Boxes stood on every inch of available floor space, taped securely with international freight stamps all over them. Lenny shook his head as he rolled up his sleeves. He never knew Emma owned so many things. Still, he would never have agreed to let her sell her belongings just to save on freight charges. He moved into the room, glad to have the house to himself for the afternoon. With Emma’s time occupied by wedding preparations, he had enough freedom to unpack, find places for her items and surprise her with a clean home when she walked through the door. The slew of boxes marked fragile, this way up and handle with care caught his eye first. Rectangular but thin, they leaned against the wall near the room’s entrance. Lenny thought he’d know what to do with all of her things but upon opening the boxes and revealing the delicate contents, he had to rethink his strategy. Displaying each of the canvassed artwork, Lenny stood back to admire the collection. He knew her talent firsthand. Hell, it was already on show in the front foyer of his big house. The two pieces, the pier and Lenny surfing, garnered amazing interest from everyone who visited. So he knew she was good. But the pieces sitting around him in the quiet room gave him an entirely new perspective. His soon-to-be wife was damn near brilliant. Did she know that? His eyes traveled over the range of distinct pieces. From historic buildings to gorgeous sunsets, Emma captured more than just the sights. He could almost feel the texture of the brick wall in one piece and hear the sound of crashing waves in another. Oh he’d seen good artwork before and he suspected his love for Emma might sway his opinion, but something in those pieces gave him cause to wonder. Did Emma have plans to sell her artwork? Could painting provide a new direction for her career? He didn’t doubt her talent for a second. All she needed was the drive and the desire. Leaving his mind to ponder, Lenny released the tape securing the last thin, rectangular box. Where did she find the time to paint? Lifting the canvas out of the box, his mind froze. Holding the piece at arm’s length, Lenny felt intense love and desire slice through his veins. The swirls of reds and oranges and yellows flowed from the painting to him, swam through every inch of his body and ignited a series of fires along the way. “Oh, Emma,” he crooned as air rushed out of him.
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Though there were no discernable images in the piece, he knew exactly what she meant by it. Hell would freeze over before he let anyone take a peek at it and the world would have to stop spinning on its axis before he even thought about selling it. No. He knew exactly where this piece would hang. For their eyes only. His lips curved as his skin heated. No time to lose. He’d go and hang it right now. Turning, he set the canvas carefully on a chair and sped out to the garage. Procuring a hammer and nails, he hurried back. With Emma’s artwork in hand, he raced up the stairs to the master bedroom, all the while images of them making love under the painting rolling through his mind. Minutes later, the delicious artwork hung in place on the wall across from the fourposter bed. He stood, hammer in hand, admiring the piece now turning the master bedroom into a palace of passion and love. Lost in the feelings racing through him, he almost didn’t hear the doorbell. Downstairs, he pulled open the big front door to Rocket, whose eyes ricocheted between the hammer and Lenny’s face. “Okay, what did I do now?” Lenny grinned. “Nothing. Come in, come in. There’s something I need you to look at. Something I want your opinion on.” Yes, Rocket’s taste in fine art was just the ticket. Leading him to the living room, Lenny set Rocket in front of Emma’s art. “Well?” Rocket inhaled deeply, his eyes scouring each piece in detail. The time it took nearly killed Lenny. Patience might be a virtue but he didn’t have much left. “Come on,” Lenny urged, his grip on the hammer tightening involuntarily. “She’s good, isn’t she?” When Rocket turned, the sparkle in his eyes eased Lenny’s worry. “Good? This isn’t good, Lenny. I think you know that. This is fantastic.” “Excellent,” Lenny laughed, slapping Rocket’s shoulder. “Because I have an idea.”
***** Directing the car toward the gallery, Lenny tried to calm his racing heart. He wouldn’t blame her if she got mad but he silently thanked her for keeping an open mind. She’d need it for the surprise he had in store. Parking three doors down from the inner city art gallery, Lenny weathered her weary glances. She made note that the restaurant was nowhere near here but he stayed silent and got out of the car. Skipping around to her door, he took her hand and hoped like crazy Rhonda had the guests under control. “So we’re here because…?” “I told you, it’s a surprise.” He closed the door, hit the locking button on his keys and directed her back toward the independent art dealer’s building.
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If the hair-brained scheme actually worked, he’d have Rocket to thank. At the glass door, he pushed it open for her and strained to keep his face neutral. He was so excited. Not only did Rocket’s art dealer buddy want to host the private showing, he was certain every piece would fetch a handsome price. He also insisted on meeting the artist. “Lenny?” She eyed him warily. No wonder she seemed worried, the building was deserted. Just like they’d planned. Climbing the stairs, he led her to the second floor and paused as she spied the display. Her art hung on the walls, rested on easels and brightened the room. Slowly she stepped into the show though it nearly killed him not to see her face. Finally she stopped moving. In the silence, she just stood, her gaze flowing from one piece to another. He needed her to turn around. The back of her head gave him no indication of her thoughts. Her sob nearly broke his heart, until she turned and beamed at him. “Oh my,” she whispered. “This is your surprise?” Lenny leaned against the wall, willing his body to stay casual. “Part one, yes.” Her eyes widened. “There’s more?” He nodded, not trusting his mouth to keep to the plan. A moment passed before Rocket appeared out of nowhere. Beside him, stood a thin man Lenny suspected was the art dealer. “Emma?” She spun, almost losing her balance. “I knew you were in on this.” Rocket laughed heartily and then motioned toward his friend. “Emma, this is Gustav, and he’s been dying to meet you.” Gustav, in his beige pressed pants, outrageous Hawaiian shirt and black and white boots, took Emma’s hand and kissed her palm. “Oh my dear, Emma,” he warbled, his accent so thick Lenny bit his lip to stop from laughing. “I am most honored to meet you. Come.” He directed her toward one of her pieces. “We must talk.” Watching them go, Lenny could only shake his head. “Where the hell do you meet people like that?” Rocket laughed. “Does it matter? Gustav has found a buyer for each of her works and has secured several commissions for her. My father is top of the list, wants her to do about four pieces. I think she’s going to be quite busy for the next twelve months or so.” Lenny could hardly breathe. “I’m so proud of her.” “So you should be.” Rocket slapped his shoulder. “Now while Gus has her occupied, we need to get everyone else on this floor. They’re upstairs.”
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Meeting Rocket’s eyes, Lenny suddenly understood the expression he’d seen in them all those weeks ago at the wedding. He felt the pure joy of being in love deep in his soul and thanked God and Emma and Rocket for bringing him to his senses. “I need to say thank you.” “No.” Rocket shook his head. “You don’t. I’m glad you’re happy. And you know the best thing about Emma working from home?” They turned to head up the stairs to gather the remaining guests. “No, what’s that?” Rocket grinned. “Nothing will get in the way of you two making babies.”
***** Emma stole silently up the stairs to the second floor, resisting the urge to call out come out, come out, wherever you are. Incredibly, she found Lenny standing in the master bedroom gazing motionless at the large abstract hanging over their bed. Standing in the doorway, she watched him admire her work. She desperately wanted to know what he thought of it, of what it represented and who was on her mind as she painted it. He seemed totally absorbed in the piece, just the way she’d designed it. Emma allowed her eyes to wander his body, the manly frame she’d come to admire and desire. Lust still streaked through her, though when she thought of them together, it had more to do with the emotions he evoked with his presence. Like the feel of permanency, that when she woke up tomorrow, he’d be there. And the day after, and the day after. The thought sent a shiver of delight through her. She never expected to catch Lenny for the long run, only hoped she’d get her fill with a final fling. He sure surprised the heck out of both of them. “It’s gorgeous,” he said on a slow exhale. She was unaware he’d noticed her. “Come in, Em,” he held out a hand and waited, “and close the door.” She did as he asked and crossed the plush pile carpet. Slipping into his arms, she stared up into his dark eyes and waited for his gaze to find her. It seemed like an eternity before he finally tore away from the painting but the passion filling his expression left her breathless. “I don’t know how many times I’ve stood here and stared at it. When I pulled it out of the box, I knew exactly where to put it. What were you doing when you painted this?” She smiled at his gruff voice and bracketed his face with her hands. “I was thinking about you,” she whispered. “About us. Together.” “Did you ever think we’d make love under it?”
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Emma swallowed, thinking back to the times she feared she’d never touch Lenny again, never see his eyes, or hear his voice. “When I stared at the finished artwork, I knew we’d be together again, Lenny.” His mouth found hers, his lips sliding across hers in a hot wet promise of their life ahead. She thought he’d pull away, break the kiss. She was wrong. His hands kneaded her bottom, pulling her against his hardness while his hips rubbed against hers. Gasping for air, she threaded her hands into his hair while he kissed a line down her neck and into the V of her shirt. “Lenny,” she whispered, her hoarse voice a warning him they should stop, all the while wishing he’d take her. “We should—” His kiss gobbled up her words while his fingers worked quickly to release the buttons on her shirt. “We should what?” he growled playfully. His face appeared before hers, his nose brushed against her cheek while his heated breath reached deep inside her. “We’re home in our bedroom. We’ve had the most amazing night and now it’s time for us to indulge. What do you say?” Emma raised an eyebrow. “And say no to having you devour me?” She laughed deep in her throat as her hands found the zipper of his slacks. “I don’t think so, mister.” In minutes they were naked, standing under the erotic painting, touching and stroking. She didn’t care they’d just left an art gallery full of her work where two dozen people congratulated them on their engagement. Her only thoughts centered on the man who’d made love to her every day since she returned, the man who knew every inch of her body and her soul. He was inside her in seconds, his hard length stretching her, filling her. She held on as he laid her on the bed before settling into a slow, passionate pace. It took no effort to wrap her legs around his waist. And it took no time before her body was ready to explode, prompting him to slow even further until he came to a complete stop deep inside her. “Em.” His whispered word stopped her heart and when his gaze penetrated hers, she felt consumed with love. She couldn’t wait to marry him, to make it official, to say I do. “I love you, Lenny.” She smiled, her voice too loud for the quiet room. He nodded, his big, warm hands weaving into her hair. His fingers teased her scalp with firm circles while his hips found their rhythm again. “I want lots of kids. You?” She would’ve laughed if the orgasm hadn’t taken possession of her. All she could do was stifle a scream by biting his shoulder. When her muscles relaxed, she chuckled against his skin. “Have I ever told you that you’ve got a way with words?” He laughed deeply, his breath rippling across her breasts and teasing her nipples. “Once or twice but I’m serious, Em.”
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All fun aside, she gazed up into his eyes and nodded her head. “I want to have your children but I want everything, honey. I want to enjoy us first, build a world where our children will be cherished and loved. I can’t do that when I spend every spare second thinking about you. Or when every breath I take fills my lungs with you.” His eyes darkened momentarily. “You can’t get enough of me? Is that what you’re saying?” She nodded and squeezed her thighs for effect. Framing his face with her hands, Emma pressed her lips against his. “Children will complete us but first, I want you and only you.” “And what about the wedding? Do you want a big wedding? God, I can’t believe I don’t know that about you.” He looked as if he wanted to slap his own forehead. Emma chuckled. “I want to be Mrs. Lenny Banks. I don’t care how.” “Really?” “Really.” The comforting weight of him on her let her know that no matter what kind of wedding they decided on, Lenny would respect her wishes. His fingers scratched her scalp lovingly and his eyes searched hers. “Have you thought about my dad’s offer?” His beautiful face communicated the most profound sense of compassion she’d ever felt, and she was thankful for Horatio’s offer to give her away at the wedding. But it wasn’t necessary. Her mother was more than capable of doing the job. “I have but my mum wants to do it.” The twinkle in his eyes warmed her. “Mrs. Lenny Banks.” He spoke the words reverently, as if he’d never anticipated it could happen. “Damn, I like the sound of that.”
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About the Author I’m an ordinary Australian girl who puts family first and, fortunately or unfortunately, sometimes lets my career get out of hand. A teacher by day, romance writer by night, my life is full of good things. I write because I’m passionate about it, because it’s in my heart. I love the escapism, the adventure and the life I live vicariously through my characters. Most of all, I relish the challenge of bringing sensual, delightful and fulfilling stories of romance to life. I write contemporary romance, romantic suspense, action/adventure, and paranormal. I’m a sucker for a happy ending and I love following my characters as they fall in love. Rose welcomes comments from readers. You can find her website and email address on her author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.
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