Coming Home

Marissa de A'mor

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COMING HOME

COMING HOME By Marissa de A’mor

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Marissa de A'mor

The scanning, uploading and distribution of this book via the Internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal, and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized electronic e ditions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author's rights is appreciated. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, places, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Coming Home Copyright (c) 2005 by Marissa de A' mor ISBN: 1-59836-073-6 Cover art and design (c) 2005 by Marianne Lacroix All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form without permission, except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Law. Printed and bound in the United States of America.

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Dedication:

I just want to thank Carol and Brenda for all their support throughout this process. I couldn’t have made it without your editing and opinions. Also, Marylin, Maggie and Kristy were instrumental in boosting my ego, and giving me the confidence I needed to finish writing this novella. My heartfelt THANKS to all of you.

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PROLOGUE

“Talk to me,” answered the Cuban beauty flipping open her cell phone. Amanda had been walking the streets of Rome, waiting for the call. “Your government says you’re the best.” A man’s deep Italian voice began. “We don’t want any mishaps.” Amanda rolled her eyes as she listened to the man tell her what needed to be done. “Don’t worry, I have it all under control.” Being the best wasn’t always easy, but Amanda made her Cuban government proud. She also made them rich. Her assignments spread across the country, usually sniping traitors or convicts who escaped Cuba. “We’ll expect results within the next two days,” the voice finished and hung up. Amanda hated to be told what needed to be done. This job in Italy was one of her biggest yet. She had been sent to get close to Victor Armada, a Cuban Diplomat who was accused of smuggling his own countrymen into the United States through Italy. Though a spy for her country, she did have a conscience. She’d been in the area a few extra days. She wanted to track him to be sure the assumptions were correct. There was always the possibility that the information she’d been provided was wrong. The evening came quickly and Amanda decided she would continue her recon in the morning. There was a club she had heard one of the locals talking about that she wanted to check out. Besides, she needed a drink to calm herself enough to get some sleep. Following the directions given to her by the front desk clerk of her hotel, she found “La Dolce Vita” without a problem. It was already loud and crowded. Making her way directly to the bar, she ordered a drink and watched the people on the dance floor. Not ten minutes passed when a man came to the bar and sat on the stool next to hers. It was hard not to notice his rugged good looks, and he smelled good too. There 5

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was no denying he wasn’t American, his features were too tan, but there was almost something familiar about him. Listening to him order a drink, she heard a slight Spanish accent. A smiled curled her lips as she turned in her seat to face him. Subtlety was not her strong suit and the nagging feeling that she had seen him somewhere before kept tugging at her. “Not from around here are you?” Her thick accent oozed on every word. “Was it that obvious?” The smile he gave her as he spoke lit the room. “I could hear an accent and it definitely wasn’t Italian.” Amanda found him mesmerizing with just the few words he had spoken. It was an immediate connection she had never felt before and she found it very strange. “I could say the same about you.” There was a gleam in his eye that sparkled when he gazed at her. Holding out her hand she introduced herself, “My name is Amanda Cortez.” She didn’t see the harm in talking and giving him her name. She would be gone in a few days anyway and he would never see her again. Taking her hand in his, “I’m Rafael Correoso.” With the introductions out of the way, they continued drinking and talking into the wee hours of the morning. They felt comfortable with each other and there was never an awkward silence in their conversation. They had an instant bond. Unfortunately, Amanda had a job to do, so she ended their time together with a promise to meet him at the club again that evening. *** While tailing Victor Armada, she saw him go into a restaurant and meet with a man in uniform. Pulling her binoculars out of her backpack, she took a closer look. She gasped at the sight--it was Rafael. Immediately she realized what was going on. Now Amanda knew where she’d seen Rafael before. He was one of the top snipers for the U.S. Marines. She always made it her business to know what she was up against in the field. Her chief concern was whether Rafael was there to help Victor or to protect him. If it was the latter, then she had to tread carefully. She knew she was good, but he could be better. Amanda had to come up with a plan and fast. The problem was that she felt attracted to Rafael and she was sure he felt the same way. 6

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Leaving her surveillance for another time, Amanda returned to her hotel room to think. She had to have a plan set and executed by the next day, but what was she going to do about Rafael? If he was there with Victor then that meant that his superiors had sent him. Amanda had to take action before anyone knew who she was and why she was there. Late that night, Rafael and Amanda met at the club as promised although they didn’t stay there. Instead they went to a quiet outdoor café to talk. The night was clear and the sky was filled with stars. The couple talked about everything from family to dreams to goals they had set in life. It was as though they had known each other for years. The attraction they felt was reflected in Rafael’s chocolate brown eyes. Leaving the café, Rafael invited Amanda back to his hotel room. Making love to Rafael was the most natural thing she’d ever done. The pleasure they gave one another surpassed anything she’d ever experienced before. “I know this will sound crazy, but I have to say it.” Rafael looked into Amanda’s emerald green eyes as he rolled on his side to face her in the hotel bed. “I know we haven’t known each other long, but I feel like I’ve known you forever.” Amanda gave a sheepish grin and as odd as it sounded, she knew exactly what he meant. “Not crazy at all, I feel the same way. It’s so hard to explain.” A wave of relief washed over Rafael’s face. “I want you to come back to Texas with me. I’ve never met a woman like you before and I don’t want to lose you already.” Amanda was shocked. What was she supposed to say? How could she betray her country like that? But, how could she leave Rafael? It was a difficult decision, but she decided to take a leap of faith. Her choice was going to change her life forever, as well as keep her looking over her shoulder for many years, but it was a chance she was suddenly willing to take. “I would love to go back to Texas with you.”

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Chapter One

“Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Miami. The current time is 5:46 pm with a temperature of 78 degrees. Enjoy your stay, and thank you for flying Southern Airlines,” announced the pilot. Rafael closed his almond brown eyes a moment, and took a deep breath. He still couldn’t believe he arrived home. He had hundreds of things running through his mind as he gathered his laptop from under the seat in front of him. What if she’s not here? What if she forgot I was coming home today? He shook the thoughts out of his head, took another deep breath, and laughed at himself for being so negative. The months apart had torn a hole in his heart. Rafael hated leaving his wife, Amanda, behind. In fact, he missed everything about her. He missed the way her hips swayed as she walked and the way her hair smelled after a shower, the sparkle in her eyes when she wanted him to take her. He missed how they could talk for hours about absolutely nothing and finish the other’s sentences. They had so much in common, including their appreciation for the outdoors. Amanda kept him on his toes, and he always made her laugh. It all rushed over him like a wave while he gathered his things, preparing to dash from the confines of the big metal bird that separated him from his lover. Oddly enough, other thoughts and memories clouded his mind. Not only was Amanda instilled in his daydreams, but his family found a way to sneak in too. Rafael worried constantly about his mother and whether his half brother, Martin, still harassed her for money. Sometime he just wished Martin would disappear and never come back. The plane taxied up the runway to the gate and the doors swung open. Rafael carefully gathered his carry-on from the overhead compartment and placed it on his lap as he sat back in his seat again. He wanted to rush off the plane to find Amanda, but instead he tried to remain calm while his heart pounded and raced in his chest. 8

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An older woman sitting next to him tapped his arm, and said in a cigarette and whiskey voice, “You must have someone special waiting for you.” Rafael’s lips curved ever so slightly and he replied, “Yes ma’am I do, my wife.” He grabbed his laptop and his carry on and headed toward the door. After having been away for Military OP’s training for almost six months, he was ready to get home. The training was designed to give him more of an edge when out in the field on assignment, but quite honestly, he felt it was a waste of time. Rafael had already mastered most of the weapons and defense tactics they demonstrated. Needless to say, he received top honors in all the classes he took. He’d waited a long time for the day of the reunion to finally arrive. Now, his heart raced a mile a minute. He knew his beautiful wife was anxiously waiting for him and all he wanted was to get to her. He needed to feel her lips under his–badly. He could see her in his mind. His heart saw a Latin goddess with silken black hair that flowed down her luscious curves to the small of her back. Her green eyes reached out and captivated him, drawing him into her seductive gaze. Her soft tanned skin and every curve called out to him. Rafael could almost hear her moist lips beckoning to him as he stepped off the plane onto the passageway. He whiffed her perfume as though she had walked in front of him. His muscles tightened and his soul ached for his wife. Even the two years of marriage had not diminished the fire that burned between them. Rafael loved and cherished her more and more every day. Amanda’s perky round breasts popped into his head along with the thought of holding her in his arms and pressing them to his chest. He slowed, hoping she perhaps thought along the same lines. Inconspicuously, Rafael adjusted the swollen member in his pants and continued down the concourse. He made it out of the passageway and into the airport. Dozens of people waited for their loved ones. Men in suits stood to the side, bearing signs with names. Rafael quickly scanned the crowd looking for his wife. To his surprise, and sudden disappointment, he didn’t see her. Looking in all directions for her, he couldn't believe that she had forgotten he was coming home. Did he give her the right date, time and flight? Maybe I screwed up. At second glance, Rafael happened to notice something. One of the gentlemen off to the side held a sign that said, “Rafael Correoso.” 9

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“Here I am,” he said raising his hand as he approached the man. “Good evening. Please follow me. Mrs. Correoso is waiting for you.” The tall, dark man in the gray uniform grabbed Rafael's carry-on bag and went to baggage claim before they headed toward the exit. *** Amanda waited patiently for Rafael, but her nerves wouldn’t settle. They had never been apart for so long. His job took him out of town often, but never for more than a week at a time. As she tried to make herself more comfortable in the leather seat of the limo, details of the day they met came rushing back to her. Though a strange situation they didn’t exactly meet by chance. Amanda had known of pending danger and Rafael was her ticket into the US and away from all she had become working as a spy. The best part about her plan was that she never had to fake her emotions for him. They had shared genuine love and attraction from the start. Amanda shook her head free of the past not wanting to remember it. That person was buried and no longer existed. Law school had called out to her when she settled in Texas. Having been on the wrong side of the law helped her better comprehend the judicial system in her new country. Thank goodness Rafael supported her and her decisions. Oh how she missed him with every ounce of her being. She loved their quiet walks along the beach after dinner or just lounging around the house in their underwear and watching TV. It was the simple things that gave her pleasure in their relationship. She couldn’t wait to finally see him. *** Stunned, Rafael followed unable to believe what Amanda had done as he went out into the hot and humid Miami weather, mumbling. His jaw dropped when he reached the curb. Only the best for her husband, she always said. The chauffeur placed Rafael's bags in the trunk of a black stretch limo. Rafael’s nerves jangled with excitement, but he stayed composed and cool. The chauffer rounded the car and opened the door. Unable to see inside, Rafael approached, and climbed in. As he settled, he looked around. 10

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Music played, so he listened closely. It was “Have I Told You Lately” by Rod Stewart. “What the—“ he began, stunned. It was the song he had played for Amanda when they were dating. He had always been a romantic at heart. Rafael looked to his left and noticed a small wet bar which held a bottle of champagne chilling with two fluted glasses. Two glasses? Where is she? At that same moment, he looked across the space as though he felt another presence in the dimly lit car. “Amanda?” In all his anxiety and nervousness he didn't notice the silhouetted person who sat in the shadows. A dim light turned on overhead giving him enough light to see, “Were you expecting someone else?” she asked seductively in that raspy voice that set his loins afire. Amanda tapped on the glass signaling the driver. Rafael gazed her way, his lip curved in anticipation. Had she bought a new outfit? It was a black mini-skirt, a sheer black blouse with a lace push up bra underneath, and black sandals. He’d bet his life that she had worn a lace thong to match that bra. He licked his lips at the thought of ripping it from her pulsating sex. *** “I’ve missed you, Rafael.” She had to break the deafening silence. The tension was thick enough to cut with a knife. She had thought about Rafael every waking moment they had been apart. She’d missed his shaggy brown hair and his full lips. That was the first thing that had attracted her to him, that sexy mouth. His chiseled body and tight ass were a close second with his eight inches of solid manhood not far behind. Seductively, Amanda ran her long fingers across her breasts and then brought her hands down and beside her on the bench seat. She dug her nails into the leather and slowly licked her upper lip. “Not as much as I’ve missed you, mi amor,” he answered, but continued to stare at her with a hungry grin. He didn't seem to know whether to cover her body with kisses, or wait. “What are you thinking?” she asked with a distinctive sparkle in her eye. A gentle laugh tumbled off his lips, “What are you wearing under your skirt?” 11

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He tugged at the crotch of his pants and Amanda could see that they’d become constricting. She grinned naughtily at her growing boy. “Hmm, really?” she purred. Uncrossing a shapely bronze leg, she flashed Raphael a little pussy. “Why don’t you come over here and find out. Besides, you owe me a hello kiss,” Amanda said breathily. Amanda didn’t have to ask Rafael twice. His cock led the way. He slid across the seat and joined her. Their legs touched, thigh to thigh. His eyes feasted upon her breasts through the sheer material. Amanda faced him. He looked so yummy in his blue rayon button down shirt and jeans and he smelled good, too. She suddenly remembered the day she bought him that shirt. She wasn’t sure why it came to her, but it did. It was on Valentine’s Day, before they were married, the day he proposed. She had torn three buttons from it when she’d ripped it from his body after giving her answer. He must have had it fixed since then. Rafael placed his hand behind her neck, pulling her close and covering her mouth with his. His rough and passionate kiss overwhelmed her. Amanda could barely breathe, but she didn’t want him to stop. His hand found her knee. Then slowly, without moving his lips from hers, he slid his hand up the creamy expanse of her inner thigh. He shuddered when his fingertips reached the lips of her labia. His hand hesitated a bare moment, possibly surprised that she had not worn any panties, but pleasantly so. Finally, he inserted two fingers into her moist core causing a low moan to escape Amanda’s lips. Rafael pumped his fingers into her, grasping her bud between his thumb and forefinger and causing her to writhe in her seat. Yielding to his exciting intimate touch, Amanda spread her legs further to give him better access as his fingers gently massaged her feminine folds. Pulling him closer, she reached over to see what he'd brought for her. His cock strained against the crotch of his khakis and only made her want him more. Amanda pulled off his shirt and unbuckled his pants whispering, “I want you--now, here.” That must have blown him over the edge. She had never seen anyone move so fast. Rafael tore off his shirt and dropped his pants. He positioned her on the seat so that she lay on her back. Pulling up her skirt, he gently nudged her legs apart with his knee, then knelt, tempting her with the tip of his throbbing member. “Please don’t tease me,” she breathed, “I’ve missed you.” 12

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He did as Amanda asked and combined the pieces to their puzzle perfectly. Their loins flush, Rafael moved gently at first. Leaning down, he kissed her passionately with every jolting thrust. Her fingernails pressed into his muscular back and perfect ass. They had been apart for so long that they could not control their urges. Together they climaxed, clinging to each other as their hearts found a slower more normal rhythm. Amanda looked up at Rafael, barely breathing, “I love you,” she said. Their coupling was in perfect harmony and all was right with the world. They were both out of breath, but completely satisfied and glowing in the moment. “We have arrived at our destination Mrs. Correoso,” they heard the driver say over the intercom system. “Thank you,” Amanda answered, surprised that they had arrived so quickly. “Holy shit, Mandi! Do you think he heard us?” Rafael sounded both concerned and excited. “I sure hope so,” she replied with a wink and a smile.

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Chapter Two

“Where are we?” he asked, puzzled. “You’ll see.” “Hmmm, I’m almost afraid to ask,” he muttered as the chauffeur opened the door. As she climbed out of the car, he couldn’t resist. Rafael slid his hand under the hem of her skirt and pinched her bare ass. “Ouch!” Laughing, Amanda hopped onto the driveway with Rafael following close behind her. “Can I get out of this outfit now?” asked their chauffer, looking at Amanda with a puppy-dog face and pouting lips. “Sure sweetie,” she giggled, “and I made sure there was dinner left for you before you headed off to bed.” She glimpsed at her husband’s puzzled expression out the corner of her eye. “You’re the best,” he said as he kissed her cheek then ran to the house. Momentarily, she scrutinized her husband’s perplexed expression and her lip curved. “Rafael darling, you can grab your own bags, right?” Teasing him apparently gave her a thrill. Rafael raised a finger to his chin and paused contemplating the current set of affairs. “Uh, yeah, but wait. What just happened here? Did you bring a spare guy, or something?” he asked, then furrowed his face in an attempt at an angry scowl. “No Silly,” Amanda giggled, but stopped right away when she saw the look on her husband’s face, “can I explain this to you inside?” He shook his head and sniffed. “Actually, no, I’d like to hear it now.” “Ok, ok, but you’re gonna laugh.” She paused for a minute before continuing. "Come here," she cooed in a sweet voice. "What?" he asked, baffled. Nevertheless he went to her. 14

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"This," she whispered, raising her fingers to his strong chin. "Come on," she urged. When his head lowered, Amanda's parted red lips pressed lightly to his unyielding taut mouth. "I just want to warm you up, darling. Hm? How about it?" "I’m still waiting," he murmured, when her lips left his. He didn’t want to give in to her just yet. Amanda continued, “Everything I have done and arranged for you has been through my convenient connections.” “Go on,” he flashed her a moment’s smile before she explained further. Amanda had always known that her husband had a kinky side to him. He didn’t doubt that he was in for a few thrills when she revealed some of what she had planned for him. Though he was a man who didn’t always like surprises, he was usually very appreciative of them. His heart pounded at the thought of their soon to be unleashed passions. “Well, my best friend’s parents’, you know, Ron, from Chicago? Well, they own a limo service here in Miami. So, I called them up and got this,” Amanda answered, making a sweeping gesture toward the black limousine. “That doesn’t explain the chauffer,” he commented, trying to sound stern, although unsuccessfully. “That’s the funny part,” she said as she started to laugh, “That was Ron.” “You’re kidding,” he looked somewhat stunned, “How did that happen?” “Well…um…it was part of our deal.” “Amanda, what do you mean by that?” He folded his arms across his broad chest and gave her his best ‘I’m not happy’ look. “You know you’re just going to laugh again,” eyeing him slyly, Amanda came closer to him, wrapping her arms around his waist. “Spill it, sexy,” he demanded as he wrapped his warm, strong arms around her too. As much as he loved his wife, he really didn’t care too much for surprises that included other men. He liked everything laid out in the open and he didn’t share. It was the Marine instincts instilled in him. Everything had to be known in order to have proper execution. That was a rule he lived by. “Well, the deal was that he would get me the best limo and this place, if I give him ‘listening privileges’ and the occasional ‘peek’ on our extracurricular activities,” Amanda sounded hopeful that her husband wouldn’t freak out. 15

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*** Amanda didn’t know why she was worried--this would not be too much of a problem for her Rafael. She fondly remembered the time they made love on the beach, out in the open, in broad daylight, where anyone could have seen them. He had no problem with very public displays of affection. The threat of discovery almost seemed to drive him. “So he could hear us in the limo, then?” “Um yeah, one-way speaker setting.” “I knew my influences would rub off on you eventually.” He wrapped his arms tighter around her and spun her around. “I’m so glad you’re not angry, I was going for the whole ‘turned on’ angle of it.” “Well it worked,” Rafael squeezed her tight and planted another awesome kiss, like the one in the limo, “I want you right now,” he whispered into her still parted lips. “Mm, I want you too, but hold that thought for a few minutes, and let’s go inside.” She smiled as she tried to coax him inside the mansion. It seemed he had not really noticed where they were until that moment. “What the… How the hell did you manage this?” “Oh this? It’s another connection. Ron’s sister is a realtor for some of the stars that live here. This happens to be Madonna’s old mansion, which hasn’t been sold yet,” she explained enthusiastically. “It’s fully furnished, mostly anyway, and ready for us to take complete advantage of.” His voice was playful, “Damn baby, you’re spoiling me.” He paused to look into her eyes. “I love it.” “Like I’ve said before, only the best for my man. Now let’s get inside.” They headed towards the house hand-in-hand. Ron had left the door unlocked so the couple could get in. The foyer alone was immaculate, with marbled floors and windows that reached the ceiling. There were paintings and tapestries that must have cost a fortune hanging on the vivid, multi-colored walls. “Are you hungry?” she asked, as she placed her keys on a glass topped, goldtoned table and rounded a Formica countertop to the chrome side-by-side refrigerator. “Actually, I am,” he said as he rubbed his stomach, in a subtle but suggestive way. 16

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“Ok, why don’t you go upstairs and pick a room.” She made a simple gesture behind her as she looked out onto the sunny veranda and the Olympic pool that shimmered beyond that. Wildflowers scented the air after she opened the sliding glass doors, letting in the cool ocean breeze and the smell of salt water. “Make yourself comfortable, and I’ll bring you something in a few minutes.” His mouth dropped. “Did you say pick a bedroom?” “Yes I did. Five of them were left furnished.” Amanda opened a cabinet door then pulled out a bottle of red wine. "Oh, where is the corkscrew?" "I’ll help you find it." She showed him the located metal utensil. "I've got it." She winked mischievously at him, “Now scoot.” After giving him a small pat on the ass, she headed back into the kitchen. “Fine, I’ll change and unpack,” he said unenthusiastically, but went anyway. While Amanda rummaged through the kitchen, she couldn’t help but wish it belonged to her. The kitchen in their house was small in comparison, though it felt more like home. She couldn’t wait to get Rafael back to their new home. *** As Amanda reached the top of the stairs with a tray of sandwiches and chocolate covered strawberries, she stopped and yelled, “Rafael, what room are you in?” “I’m in one of the furnished bedrooms…waiting for you,” he answered mysteriously. “Ha ha, smart ass! Which one?” she asked as she peered into the first sunny room to her right. “Find me!” His playful side had made an appearance. She laughed to herself, “Ok. Marco!” She yelled out between fits of laughter. Rafael always brought a smile to her face, no matter how angry she got at him. “Polo!” She almost dropped the tray because she was laughing so hard. “Marco!” she giggled. “Polo!” She had pinpointed the direction and headed down the hall. One more and you’re mine, “Marco!” 17

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There was a hearty laugh, then a whispered, “Polo.” Amanda had not realized she was standing in front of the room he had picked. Pushing open the door, she walked in. She had to put down the tray so as not to drop it. There was Rafael, lying in the fourposter bed, spread eagle and naked. Fixing her gaze upon him, she looked him over from head to toe, “Mm Mm Mm, I should have left this food in the kitchen.” “Why is that?” he asked with a sly look and a big grin from ear to ear. “Because mi amor, you look good enough to eat,” she answered licking, her lips with anticipation. “Really? Well, why don’t you come over here for a little taste?” Amanda started to walk toward the bed, but stopped, “I have a better idea. Don’t move until I tell you to.” “Ok,” he agreed eagerly as he sat up on his knees. “Promise me you won’t move! I mean it, Rafael.” “Fine, I promise.” Amanda kicked off her sandals. Rafael seemed bewildered and kept a close eye on his wife. Their eyes caught and held. God, she could get so lost in those dark chocolate pools. Keeping her eyes locked with his, she ran her fingers through her hair, down her neck, and over her breasts. She watched Rafael’s mouth drop open while he moved to the edge of the bed. Slowly, she unbuttoned her blouse. Amanda could see that his now pulsating and swollen cock rose high to just below his naval. When she reached the last button she slipped the blouse off her shoulders and let it slide down her arms and onto the floor. Amanda stood before him in her short black skirt and her favorite black lace push up bra, the perfect contrast on her tanned Cuban skin. Her taut, rosy brown nipples stood begging for his immediate attention. Rafael licked his lips, and was about to get off the bed... She stepped back, “you promised!” “Damn it! I can’t help myself. You look so fuckin’ hot!” he exclaimed, practically whining. “Baby, please, I’m not finished yet. Good things come to those who wait,” her voice matched the whine in his. 18

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“Ok, ok, but you’re making me crazy over here.” “I know, I can see that,” she said, eyeing that powerful rod, standing now at full attention. God she wanted to jump on him and ride him like a wild horse until sunrise. But she had a different agenda laid out. Once he sat down again she continued her music-less striptease, enjoying how it was affecting him. Staring back into his eyes she unfastened her bra freeing her heavy, dark, rosetipped breasts. She didn’t, however, let it fall off right away. She wanted to see how wide his eyes could get. She crossed her arms underneath her breasts, giving them an extra ‘lift’. Rafael's eyes widened and lavished her heated body with an approving gaze that rolled down to her feet. A sharp tug curled low in her belly. Without uncrossing her arms, Amanda moved the strap off first her left shoulder, and then off her right shoulder. Was Rafael shaking with the lack of self-control? She’d planned to tease him for a little longer, but changed her mind. With determination and one quick move, Amanda pulled off the bra, and threw it in his face. He let out a low rumbling moan, “God how I love those tits!” “Si, mi amor, I know,” She put her hands underneath them and pushed them up, “You know what? They feel so soft too.” Now she was being really evil because she began to massage them, and to rub and pull at her nipples. For the added sexual affect, she let out an “mmm” too. Amanda's heart seemed almost to beat out of her chest as she tempted him. The thrill had taken her to a whole new level of desire. Her perky D cup sized breasts were a fetish neither of them could resist. “Oh my God! Don’t make me fuckin’ beg for you. My cock can’t get any harder!” “Oh, but I bet it can.” With that, she stopped rubbing and pinching. Placing her hands behind her back, she unzipped her skirt, waited a few seconds, and then let go. The skirt just fell down to the floor in a small pile around her manicured feet. “Holy shit! Now that’s some pussy cat!” he groaned. Her mound was perfectly shaved, except for the small strip that covered her moist lips. Smiling shyly, she ambled toward the door, turned and wriggled her fingers, invitingly. “Now follow me,” she purred. 19

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He practically fell off the bed, running to catch up with her. She stopped and turned just in time for him to poke Miss Kitty with his anxious rod. That was an automatic ‘nipple hard-on’, and he noticed it right away, “Mmm,” she moaned for a second time at the sensation of feeling his hardness so close to her. “I was just going to tell you not to follow too closely.” “Damn it, Mandi, I can’t take much more. I want you now.” “I want you more, but not here. I have the perfect place ready, and waiting for us. I just wanted to get you warmed up a little.” “Fuck the warmed up, I’m hot as hell. Where are we going now?” The frustration was evident in his tone. “Just follow me and you’ll see.” Amanda turned around and headed toward the stairs with Rafael close behind her. She jogged down the stairs, bouncing in all the right places as she went. She stopped short at the bottom, just to be sure he still paid attention. Confidant that he was right behind her, she kept going. Through the living room and French doors that led outside she went. “Are you ready for yet another surprise?” “No, but what the hell,” he shrugged. Was he feeling a little more frustrated, she wondered? His erection had faded and that didn’t seem to make him feel any better. Opening the doors, she moved aside for Rafael to exit first. He walked forward, but suddenly stopped to turn back. He strode her way, stopped and put his hand at the small of her back and pulled her close to him, “Where do you come up with this stuff?” His hands slipped down and cupped her derriere at its fullest points. She looked into his playful eyes and smiled back, “I have you as my inspiration and motivation, my love.” What she had done was not such a big deal. All she did was light a few dozen candles around the Jacuzzi. It did look pretty amazing, though. The hot tub shimmered within the gazebo. The water in the huge Jacuzzi bubbled. Of course, she’d had a little help setting up and lighting all the candles. It was a clear night and the moon was full, giving an even more romantic ambiance. It could not have been more perfect if she had planned it. 20

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“Come on, the Jacuzzi is hot and steamy and waiting for us to make it boil.” She took him by the hand and led the way letting Rafael climb in first. Amanda stood at the edge while he settled in, “So, how does the water feel?” She licked her lips again as she watched every muscle on his chiseled body move in unison. She was ready to pounce. The military kept him on a strict physical routine, but that made him all the more irresistible to his wife. “Mm, feels great,” he looked around a minute, “but I seem to be missing something.” “Really? Well, let me get in there and help you find it.” She walked around to the side of the Jacuzzi where he was sitting. She stepped in next to him, but instead of sitting across from or next to him, she decided to straddle him instead. As she made herself comfortable sitting on his lap and rubbing her breasts in his face, she could feel his rod rising all over again. “I think I found what you’re missing.” She reached down and grasped his rock hard stump in a tight grip. His voice was broken. “Oh yeah, Mmm, you found it all right. Mmm.” “I’m glad. Do you mind if I borrow it for a few minutes?” “Only a few minutes?” He asked in a disappointed tone, “You can borrow it for as long as you need,” he said with a seductive smile on his face, caressing her back all the way down to her round ass. “I can only handle a few minutes at a time.” Her need to talk disappeared like vapor in mid-air. Holding one hand on the edge of the Jacuzzi behind Rafael’s head, she stroked Rafael’s throbbing cock with the other hand. Amanda rubbed the head along the entrance to her innermost core. His probing fingers found her clit and she bit down on her lip from the sensation. "Oh God, Rafael," she groaned, out of her mind with need. "You'd like me in you wouldn't you baby?" "Mm, oh yeah." The combination of the heat from their bodies and the heat from the water made her all the more horny, as her thinking grew fuzzy. Unable to take it anymore, she breathed, "I want you. Now." 21

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Slowly she sat on him until his cock sank deep into her. It felt so good she could barely move. She began to sway her hips in small circles. Without losing her rhythm, she lowered her lips to his. God, his kisses were so good. His cock throbbed inside of her as she began to move a little faster. The steamy heat drove them both wild. His hands cupped her hips and her bottom. In perfect unison, they swayed. She could tell from the look in his eyes that he already wanted to cum. It felt too good to want to stop. They moved faster and her breathing rate increased making the world around them spin. She closed her eyes and arched her back letting him have full access to her firm breasts and hard nipples as she moaned in pure pleasure. “I want to cum!” she screamed in the heat of the moment. “Me too, baby, we’ll cum together,” he panted in reply. No sooner had he said it, that they both gasped for air as they came together, again. Undeniable bliss surrounded them as their juices intermingled inside her. Amanda couldn’t move from her spot on Rafael’s lap, so she leaned forward to rest on his chest. They were still catching their breath as she gazed at him from her comfortable spot against his shoulder. He looked so damn good after hot sex. His body always glistened from the droplets of sweat. The look in his eyes and the sound of his voice were her biggest turn-on.

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Chapter Three

“Too bad your buddy Ron wasn’t around for his peeking part of the deal,” Rafael whispered in her ear. “That’s what you think,” she replied. “What do you mean?” She moved back off his chest, and pointed behind him, “You see that third window from the right, on the second floor?” “Yeah,” he said, puzzled as he squinted to see. “Smile and wave, cuz you’re on candid camera,” she laughed. “Camera!” “Well that’s an added bonus. I wanted you to be able to remember this reunion,” she explained, “so I told Ron, please videotape the good stuff. He agreed and here we are.” She lowered her head and waited for his response. “What have I done to you?” “Huh?” She wasn’t quite sure how to take that remark. It didn’t sound too good to her. She figured he saw the look of concern on her face because he wrapped his arms around her and smiled. “I meant it in a good way. You’ve become much more open-minded since we met. You never would have considered all this a few years ago.” Amanda had been a little too sheltered in her youth. It was a good thing that Rafael had come around to let her out of her shell and teach her to spread her wings. Being the only child of a single mother, Amanda never got out much. When she turned twenty, she took it upon herself to go and see what she had been missing. Her mother hadn’t been very happy about that but she didn’t try to stop her. She chuckled. “You’re right. You bring out the devil in me somehow, but I like it.” She was thankful to have bumped into him that night at the club in Italy. Every day after that was a whirlwind romance filled with passionate love and hot sex. 23

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“So do I,” he whispered, then squeezed her close and kissed her deeply and passionately for what seemed like hours. She pulled away, not really wanting to, “I think we should get out of here, we’re starting to prune.” “Good idea,” he said as he looked at his hands and laughed. Amanda got up first since she was still sitting on Rafael’s lap, but she made sure she brushed his face with her breasts as she did. He tried to grab her, but she was too fast. Rafael got out of the Jacuzzi, stood in front of her, and looked down at himself, “You see what you’ve done?” “Mmm, nice and hard.” Amanda couldn’t believe it, but Rafael did have unbelievable stamina and energy. “Well, let’s see if we can fix that inside,” she teased as she strolled back toward the house. He caught up and wrapped his arms around her shoulders and chest, pressing his hard cock against her ass as they walked into the house together. She stopped at the foot of the stairs and looked around. “What are you looking for?” he asked with a bewildered look on his face. “Just wondering where our next ‘sex spot’ should be,” she said with a big smile as she reached back and gently massaged his cock in her right hand. He felt so hard and so hot. She wanted to take him right there in the foyer. It almost killed her when he let out a low moan of pleasure. “I know what I want,” he said, lifting her and starting up the stairs. It was just like a scene from a romantic movie. All Amanda could do was look into his eyes and smile. She felt like she was in a dream, practically floating in the arms of the man she loved. When they reached the top of the stairs he spotted Ron heading back to his room, camera in hand. “Hey, Ron,” Rafael called over to him. Ron turned around, “Yeah?” he was trying not to look directly at any one spot since they were both still naked. “Do you have other blank tapes with you?” “Yeah, I have a few in my room.” 24

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“Good, grab one and follow me.” Rafael waited for him to get back, and led him into their bedroom, where he gently sat Amanda on the bed. “Rafael, what are you going to do?” She was a bit shocked, but curious to learn what his devilish mind was scheming. “All this time you’ve been thinking about what to do for me, well I want to do something for you. This tape is going to be for your personal collection.” “What do you mean?” He went over and put his arm around Ron’s shoulder, “Our buddy Ron is going to tape us, right here, right now.” He smiled and waited for her response. Of course, Ron didn’t seem to have a problem with it. Amanda could tell the hard-on was coming by the look on his face. “Sounds delicious, but why is this going to be for my personal collection?” “Because I want you to be able to see, and remember the uncontrollable orgasms I am about to give you.” Ron popped in the new tape and was already filming as Rafael moved towards his suitcase and pulled out one of his silk ties. He walked over to the bed and pulled her up onto her knees and then knelt in front of her. Bringing the tie to her eyes, he tied it behind her head. Making sure she couldn’t see anything, he leaned closer and whispered in her ear, “I don’t want you to see what I’m doing. I just want you to feel me.” She was so excited, but all she could say was, “Okay.” She could hear his breathing, and she could feel he was close to her. It was making her crazy already, and she was sure he knew it. Amanda’s breathing became a little faster as she was getting more and more excited with the anticipation. He leaned in and gently kissed her lips. They were so soft and moist, but he left her wanting more. Placing his hands on her shoulders, he let them slowly and softly run down the length of her arms to her hands. He intertwined their fingers and kissed her again and this time it was deeper and more demanding. She could feel her heart racing as she squeezed his fingers a little tighter. His kiss felt so good she didn’t want him to stop, but he did. Without releasing their hands, he moved his body a little closer to hers, close enough for her to feel his rod getting harder.

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He began giving her soft sensual kisses, on her cheek, over to her ear, down her neck, to her shoulder, across the top of her chest, and up the other side until he reached the opposite cheek. God, it all felt so good, so romantic, so exciting, and so perfect. She had even forgotten for a moment that Ron was right there, up close and personal, and she knew he loved every minute of it. Rafael kissed his way back to her waiting lips. He paused and lingered for a moment, as though unsure what to do next. What he might not realize was that he was already driving her out of her mind. Every time his lips touched her skin she could feel the burn. It was like nothing she had ever known. He stopped kissing her for a minute and all was quiet. After long seconds, he began kissing her chest, just above her breast. He let go of her hands to put them at the small of her back, so that he could pull her in closer as he moved his kisses closer to the swells of her breasts. Her nipples were already hard at the sensation of feeling him so close to them. She could feel his cock stiffening more at the sight of how excited he could make her. Rafael pulled her even closer, and as she arched her back into him, he took one breast in his mouth to suckle her nipple. She could hear him devouring her, his appetite insatiable. He let go and moved to the other breast. His warm mouth and soft lips were making her wet. He kept going from one breast to the other, totally devouring them, flicking the sensitive bulbs with his tongue. All she could do was let out a low rumbling moan, “Baby, please.” “No baby, I’m not even halfway finished yet,” he said softly. He ignored her pleading and continued his conquest, lingering on her breasts for a few more minutes and then put his face between her breasts, squeezing them together. She tangled her fingers in his hair as he breathed her in. With his hands on her hips, he began kissing down her stomach to her belly button. He stopped and helped her lie on her back. She could feel him over her as he placed her hands above her head, and asked her not to move them. 26

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“Baby, that’s no fair. I want to touch you,” Amanda whined as she tried to move out of his strong grip. His domination excited her. “My queen, please, trust me,” he whispered to her and placed a soft kiss on her quivering lips. She did as he asked and kept her hands above her head, but it wasn’t easy. While still hovering over her he began kissing his way down her body again. Starting at her neck he moved down to her chest not missing an inch anywhere. He kissed each nipple, and then moved down her stomach and past her belly button again. As he continued kissing further down, he gently spread her legs apart and kissed her right where her feminine folds began. She felt a sudden rush of heat as she let out a soft moan of delight. He spread her legs a little farther and slid down between them. This was by far her favorite. She could feel his warm breath on her as he came in close and licked her moist lips from bottom to top. God, it felt so good! *** He did it again just to see if she would moan, and of course, she did. Rafael spread her lips apart and flicked her clit with his tongue. Having mastered the art of truly pleasing a woman, he knew he could make her cum with just his tongue if he wanted to. That seemed to make her absolutely crazy. He could feel her losing control and straining at her ties. He sensed her nearing her peak so he didn’t stop. He just kept flicking and sucking her clit faster and harder, nibbling every chance he had. All she could do was arch her back and moan in sheer delight. The sounds of her enjoyment just made him more ravenous. Never moving his tongue from her now swollen clit, he slid two fingers inside her. She swore and cursed at the aching he caused within her. “Oh God!!” she screamed out as she grabbed at the sheets to keep from grabbing him. She couldn’t take it anymore, “Please, no more, I want you!” He looked up at her with a glazed grin, “Tell me what you want.” Amanda had to stop and catch her breath because even though his tongue had stopped, his fingers were still inside her, “I want you inside me, pleeeaaase. I need you to fuck me.” 27

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“Mmm, that’s what I wanted to hear.” And that really was all he needed to hear. His cock was so ready that he didn’t even tease her with it. He placed the head right at the soft opening he had prepared, reached over to take off the blindfold, then thrust his cock all the way in. God, it was like a rush. She felt so damn good. He leaned in closer to kiss her while he continued to thrust. All he could hear was their bodies slapping together and their moaning as he kept thrusting in and out pumping faster and harder with every moan. He could see they both wanted to cum, but he wanted to hold out just a little longer. He didn’t want the feeling to end just yet, so he slowed down a little so they could catch their breath. “Baby, please don’t stop,” she panted. “I’m not stopping sweet cakes, I want you to turn over so I can hold on to that ass while I take you from behind.” He didn’t have to ask her twice. She got up and turned around, ready on all fours. He went to grab her, but she moved away, “Just kneel there and wait for me.” She could no doubt see the look of shock and thrill on his face. She turned around and stuck her ass in the air. She was close enough that the head of his cock brushed her and he could feel how wet she still was, though she wasn’t close enough for him to be inside her. She swayed and rubbed her lips on the tip for a minute as her juices dripped onto him. She moved back a little more, and then just pushed herself back into him. *** She moved slowly at first, but she couldn’t help herself and thrust herself at him. It felt so good to have him so deep inside her again. Wasting no time, he grabbed her hips. He kept pulling her toward him, faster and harder, making every thrust count. They were both already so close that neither one of them had any self-control left in them. He just kept pounding faster and faster. Her breasts were bouncing and rubbing on the sheets. The more they moved the faster he went. Thrusting and hammering and moaning and groaning, neither one could hold back anymore. The urge to cum was overpowering, and the rhythm of his powerful thrusts was intoxicating her beyond control.

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No sooner had had the urge taken over, than they both just felt the sudden rush of heat as they came together yet again. They both collapsed on the bed trying to catch their breath. Their heavy breathing echoed in the large bedroom. Rafael lay behind her and cradled her close to him. It all felt so good. He looked over at Ron and motioned to him to leave. Getting the hint, he shut off the camera and left them alone. They were both too exhausted to even speak. He kissed the back of Amanda’s neck and squeezed her a little closer as she fell asleep wrapped in his arms. Thoughts of the past two days flooded her dreams. She was more than making up for lost time. It was as though time stood still for the two of them, giving them the chance to get to know each other again. His career with the Marines didn’t always allow for too much quality time. They hadn’t even gotten a real honeymoon. They had to take advantage of the sporadic moments they were given to express their passions.

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Chapter Four

Amanda woke up early the next morning, put on one of Rafael’s T-shirts that she found in the drawer, and went down to the kitchen. She wanted to make him a breakfast fit for a king because he had made her feel like his queen from the moment he arrived. When she got to the kitchen Ron was already eating at the counter. He looked up from his plate and gave her a sheepish grin. She laughed at him, "Don't say a word." "What? I was only smiling," he tried to be defensive about it, but it came across as amusement. "Yeah right, I know you better than that," she wagged her finger at him with her other hand on her hip. "Oh come on, can I just say one thing?" he begged. "Fine," Amanda sighed hesitantly, "What do you need to say? Make it quick, I want to make breakfast before Rafael wakes up." "I just wanted to say," he seemed to hold back the tears of laughter, "I always knew you'd look hot naked." After that, he couldn't hold back the mirth. "That's just great Ron," she rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Where the hell do I find my friends?" "Hey, just be glad I'm such a great friend. Any other jerk would have tried to join in once he took a look at you." With a suggestive tone in his voice, he eyed her perky breasts through the shirt as he rubbed his chest in content. Friend or not, he told her honestly that he thought she was hot. Amanda, feeling a bit affectionate, despite his wise cracks, walked over to him and kissed him on the cheek, "Thank you, and you know I love you." "Yeah, I know," he replied sarcastically, "I'll be in the pool if you need me," he said as he cleared his plate and headed out. First things first, she decided. Amanda put on a pot of coffee. She knew Rafael didn’t drink coffee, but she sure as hell needed some. She went over to the refrigerator 30

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and got some eggs, bread and milk, deciding she would make him some of her delicious French toast. That was his favorite breakfast. Not that she was a master chef by any means, but she knew how to make great French toast. "Mm, what smells so good?" Rafael asked as he dragged himself into the kitchen and sat in a stool at the counter, rubbing his eyes. "I'm making French toast." "Outstanding. Hey, that looks like my shirt," he said as he pointed at her. "It is. Is that ok?" Dumb question, she knew that. There had been an instant bond and trust between the two from the moment they met and since then they’d shared everything. "Of course it is. It looks good on you," Rafael reached out, grabbing her around the waist, and pulled her close to him. Looking into her eyes, he tugged her even closer and gave her a mind-blowing good morning kiss. Amanda could feel her body go limp in his strong arms. He was so amazing. Everything about him made her melt. He could ask anything of her, and she would blindly agree. Moving his hands from around her waist, he slowly insinuated them under the hem, but suddenly stopped, "Mmm, I see this is the ONLY thing you have on. That makes it look even better." "Wait a sec. My breakfast...it's going to--" "Let it burn," he growled. "I want you too, but..." "Come over here woman." Leaning, he reached for her arm, but she escaped. "But…let me shut off the stove before we burn the place down." His hunger for her seemed insatiable, as was hers for him. His voice turned husky. “Oh all right then,” he said, his gaze lingering on her face. As she twisted the knobs, he rose off the stool. Amanda felt his arms slide around her waist and a tug curled low in her belly heating her inner core. His long fingers moved several strands of her sleek black hair aside and his gentle lips kissed the right side of her throat. Chill bumps formed at the spot. She felt the tingle run all the way down her spine. He feathered kisses along her collarbone and to the softness above her breasts. A 31

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low moan escaped her lips as she closed her eyes and leaned back into him, with her head resting gently on his right shoulder. He squeezed her tighter and nestled his face in the crook of her neck for a minute. He tilted his head a little and whispered in her ear, “I want you.” “So take me,” she whispered back and kissed his cheek. He never needed a second invitation. Gently turning her around to face him, he put his hand on the back of her neck and pulled her in for another magnificently passionate kiss. Amanda could feel herself going weak again, and her heart raced with excitement. She knew Rafael felt it too because she could feel him getting harder. When she reached down to stroke him, he suddenly pulled away. Amanda was shocked, but he looked deep into her eyes, and bit his lower lip. With one swing of his arm he swept everything that was on the center island onto the floor and then lifted her by the waist, sitting her on its shiny Formica surface. The island had two levels, and she was sitting on the lower level, which was the perfect height for his waist. Wrapping his muscular hands around her legs he pulled her onto his massive erection, spreading her with his body. Looking into her eyes, he reached under the T-shirt and squeezed her breasts, teasing her already hard nipples. She was about to reach out to touch him when he shook his head, “Keep your hands on the counter where I can see them.” Amanda automatically did as she was told, no questions asked. She wasn’t going to argue with the man that was making her feel so damn good. He was still teasing her perky peaked nipples as he gave orders. He stopped only long enough to pull the garment off of her, and tossed it aside. Leaning forward, Rafael took each nipple in his mouth, and gently nibbled and suckled each one for many maddening seconds. She threw her head back, arched her back ever so slightly, and moaned in delight, “Mmm, Rafael that feels so good.” He looked at her and smiled, then started kissing down to her stomach. Amanda sighed as he got to the top of her moist lips. She could feel his warm breath on her and it drove her crazy. She moved herself closer to the edge of the counter and leaned back on her arms. 32

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He lifted her legs over his shoulders and dove in. Spreading her apart with his tongue, he licked her from the bottom all the way to the top, flicking her clit with his tongue when he reached the hard bud. He knew how to make her squirm, and he obviously loved every minute of it. He lapped her up again, but slower this time, making sure he tasted every spot and took in every drop of nectar. Rafael was making her feel completely out of control. “God, you’re so good. I want you inside of me,” she groaned, her breath staggered. The pleasure he gave her was immeasurable. He looked up at her for a minute and grinned, “Not yet sweets, not yet.” “Please,” she begged, “I can’t hold back anymore. I want you to cum inside me.” There was desperation in her voice. Rafael practically leapt to his feet. She knew he couldn’t resist her begging for him. With her legs still spread wide, he positioned himself in front of her again. His cock was so hard, and she was so wet, that there was no guiding necessary. She was close enough to the edge that he slid right in with one ferocious thrust. It felt so good to have him inside of her. They were such a perfect fit. He moved deeper into her, and then started pulling out slowly, until only the head of his shaft was touching her opening. Reaching around to hold on to her ass, he thrust himself all the way in again. Amanda gasped with delight as she wrapped her legs around him and squeezed him in deeper and tighter. The feeling was amazing. She had learned how to truly appreciate a massive hard-on in their short time together. They could see the look on each other’s faces. Sensing they both needed to explode, she relaxed her leg’s grip, and he started moving in and out. Faster and faster each time, he was going deeper and harder with every thrust. Something, maybe the sight of her tits bouncing, made him move even harder and faster. Amanda could feel him throbbing as she tightened her inner muscles around his rock solid cock. She couldn’t hold back anymore, he felt too damn good, she screamed, “Oh my God!” “Yes, baby, cum with me,” he grunted trying to catch his breath.

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They both exhaled and groaned as they came together in an ocean of hot flowing juices. They were in total bliss and glowing from yet another moment of ecstasy. Their encounters were becoming more carnal. Reaching out to pull him close to her, she kissed him gently on the lips and then hugged him close as they each tried to catch their breath. She could taste herself on his lips and breath. “That was an outstanding breakfast,” he said with a gleam in his eyes and her body’s glaze still on his face. He looked so cute when he was trying to be a smart ass. “Only the best for you, mi amor,” she replied with a big smile, “but we should probably get dressed before Ron gets back in from the pool.” He gave her a sideways look, “Does it really matter? Hasn’t he already seen pretty much everything we could possibly show him?” Rafael commented with mischief in his voice. “Ummmm, yeah, ok, you’re right. Screw it.” “Thank you,” he replied, his tone matter of fact. “So what do you have planned for us today, my Queen?” he asked as he squeezed her close to him. She still sat on the counter of the island. “Well, for starters, this was not the breakfast I had planned,” she laughed, “but I’m not complaining. Your idea was much more fulfilling and satisfying.” “Mm, was it now?” he glowed at the compliment. “Of course it was,” Amanda said as she wrapped her legs around him and squeezed. She felt his mighty cock give a little twitch, so she let go fast, “Oh no you don’t. I want to go for a swim.” Rafael looked at her with his puppy dog face and pouty lips, “Awww, come on, don’t tease him and leave him.” “Oh I’m not leaving him, just giving him a little rest so we can use the pool,” she said as she kissed him on the nose and jumped off the counter. He reached out to grab her, but she darted around the counter and headed towards the stairs, “Come on baby, let’s put on our swimsuits!” He hesitated for a minute then dragged himself over to her. “Ok, I’m coming.” “Good. Wait until you see the new swimsuit I bought especially for you.” “Mm, really?” He exclaimed, wide-eyed and smiling, “Tell me about it.” 34

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”Nope, you’ll see,” she laughed and ran up the stairs, “I’ll meet you by the pool.” “Fine!” He yelled up at her as he shuffled himself up the stairs and into the room. Rafael dug through the dresser until he found his swim trunks and a T-shirt. He put on his shirt and shorts, and brought himself back downstairs, through the French doors, and out to the pool. It was a beautiful morning and the water was sparkling. The pool had two diving boards and a slide. It was surrounded in terra cotta tile, and had lovely wrought iron patio furniture and lounge chairs. He picked one, and laid down to wait for Amanda. Amanda had been watching through the window, waiting for Rafael to get outside. Once she saw him get comfortable she quickly put on her bathing suit and covered it with a robe. She grabbed the two towels she had on the bed and headed out to meet Rafael by the pool. “What took you so long?” he asked as she approached the patio. “I was waiting until you got out here first,” she smiled back. “Ok,” he laughed at her, “so when do I get to see this suit?” he asked as he sat up, straddling the lounge chair. “In a second,” she said as she placed the towels on a nearby table. “I remembered that you said once that you thought the color turquoise would look good on me.” *** “Yeah, and I still think so.” He subconsciously licked his lips in anticipation, still tasting Amanda’s sweet nectar. “Well, what there is of my bathing suit is turquoise.” “What do you mean, what there is of it?” he said as he moved closer to the edge of the lounge chair. She looked at him with a big smile on her face as she began to untie her robe, “I mean this.” Amanda let the robe slide off her shoulders, and land on the ground. Rafael’s mouth dropped open, and his eyes bugged out. She was wearing a turquoise thong bikini, the top being two small triangles that only covered her nipples, and the bottom just covered the necessities. All the blood in his body seemed to move south and he thought he might pass out. Her D cups overflowed in it, and her round ass hid the small piece of material in the back. “Holy shit!” Was all he could muster to say. 35

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“Does that mean you like it?” she asked, while laughing at the shocked look on his face. “Sweets, it looks fuckin’ outstanding on you!” “Good,” she said with a sigh of relief. “So are you ready to dive in?” “Oh hell yeah! Come here,” he reached for her. “No baby,” she said taking a step back, “I meant into the pool.” “Damn! You weren’t kidding about the swim,” he looked disappointed. “Don’t worry, mi amor, it’ll be worth it.” She grabbed his hands and pulled him up off his seat. Still holding his hands, she tugged him over to the shallow end of the pool, “Ok, get in and wait there for me.” “What?” he exclaimed, completely puzzled by the whole situation. “You heard me, stand there a minute and wait for me.” “I hope you realize you’re killing me over here. My ego can’t take much more of this cock teasing,” Rafael complained as he got into the water. “Where are you going?” he yelled out as he saw Amanda walking to the other end of the heated pool. “You’ll see,” she said as she kept her pace and reached the diving board. She climbed the ladder to the higher board, walked to the end, gave it a little bounce, and dove right in. Rafael stood at the shallow end, more confused than before. What he didn’t know was that as she was swimming she was removing her bikini. It was easy since it was all strings that only needed to be untied. By the time she reached him, the swimsuit was long gone. He could see her shadow in the water as she got close to him. Once she got to where he was standing, she reached out and pulled his trunks down to his ankles. She stood up slowly, brushing her breasts on him, from his hardening cock to his well defined, smooth chest. He stepped out of his trunks and grabbed her by the waist to pull her close, poking her with his erection in the process. “Mmm, mmm, I see my water show got a standing ovation,” she smiled as she reached down to stroke him. “We’ve never seen anything like it,” he answered with a smile from ear to ear. “What do you do for an encore?” “Well, for an encore I pull you a little deeper into the water, I stand against a wall with you in front of me, and then I straddle you so you can fuck me,” she raised an eyebrow as she spoke. 36

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“That’s my kinda encore,” he said as he pulled her deeper into the water. He locked her up against the wall with his arms, as he held on to the side of the pool behind her head. He leaned in close to her for a kiss. There was nothing more sensual to him than a long, hard kiss. She put her arms around his neck as they continued to kiss, wrapping her legs around his waist. Rafael let go of the pool and moved his back to the side so he could hold onto her ass instead, his hands roaming up and down her back as their kissing became more passionate. Entangling his fingers in her hair, he stopped kissing her. He pulled on her hair so she would arch her back far enough for him to kiss her breasts and suck on her nipples. He flicked her nipples with the tip of his tongue in a way that he knew sent chills down her spine. She moved her right hand from around his neck, and reached down to stroke his throbbing cock. She rubbed the tip of his cock along her moist and waiting lips, but it seemed all she wanted was to feel him inside of her. Amanda moved a little bit, then got his cock all the way in. He stopped devouring her breast long enough to moan as he felt his cock squeeze into her tight cave. He let go of her hair and started kissing her again as she slowly moved her hips in small circles with him deep inside her. They both moaned as they kissed. She started moving a little faster. Rafael wanted to take over, so he put his hands on her ass and moved her up and down on his solid shaft. He was able to get deeper than before this way. He started to move her faster and faster. They were almost at the breaking point and couldn’t control it much longer. Their moaning and groaning became more intense as he moved faster and faster, thrusting himself into her like he was drilling for oil. “Oh God, I’m gonna cum,” she screamed out. Once again, they couldn’t have been more in tune with each other. He thrust his cock in as deep as it would go and Amanda wrapped her legs tighter around his waist as their burning juices mingled once again in a blissful joining. Their time apart had made them more desperate for each other, making their usual stamina falter. “Rafael.” “Yeah, sweets.” 37

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“I’m so glad you’re finally home,” she told him as she squeezed him close to her, his heart beating against hers. Her breathing was erratic, but she tried to regain momentum. “So am I.” He smiled, and kissed her forehead. Words could not explain the emotions and feelings running through them. They had been apart too long and planned to make up for all of it and then some.

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Chapter Five

After a week of unbridled and unceasing sex, the couple knew it was time to go home. They packed their belongings, which wasn’t much, and headed out to the limo. Ron helped load their bags into the trunk along with his, and he slid into the driver’s seat. He automatically closed the privacy window and let them enjoy their final moments of their fantasyland. He didn’t even turn on the one-way speaker. Strangely enough for Ron, he’d had enough of their passions to last a lifetime. They drove through the quiet neighborhood and up the driveway of their ranch style home. They had just bought it the month before Rafael had been sent away for training. He had not been able to fully enjoy the place, but he would be sure to change that. Rafael felt guilty that Amanda had to take care of everything and unpack alone. He promised himself he would make it up to her as best he could. His job had kept him too busy for too long. Ron parked the car and helped get their bags from the trunk, laying them by the front door. He said his good-byes and drove off again. Rafael and Amanda walked toward the door, arm-in-arm. Unlocking the bolt, he stopped her before she could enter. “What’s the matter?” she placed her soft hand on his rugged, stubble-covered face, and tilted her head to the side in concern. He smiled tenderly as Amanda’s piercing green eyes stared into his soul. “Nothing is wrong. I just love you so much, and feel so lucky to have you.” The time away had run amok on his emotions. “I love you too. More than life itself, but I can prove it better inside.” The sparkle in her eye had returned and beckoned him to follow her. He could see the emotions written on her face. He felt the same way. No matter how often he told her he loved her, it always felt like the first time. Rafael could never resist that look. He scooped her into his arms and carried her over the threshold. He remembered having done that when they bought the house, but he 39

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felt he needed to relive the moment again. He strode inside and kicked the door shut behind him. Bringing Amanda closer to him, he kissed her soft awaiting lips as he began to move toward the long hallway leading to the master suite. “It’s about time you two got home,” said a gruff voice behind them. The voice startled Rafael so much that he nearly dropped Amanda. He spun toward the sound and stared. “How the hell did you get in here?” A distinct anger could be heard in Rafael’s voice, as his nose flared and teeth clenched. The man rose from the couch and stepped closer to them. He eyeballed Amanda from head to toe with every step he took. He licked his lips before he spoke. “Your beautiful wife here ain’t too good at hidin’ the spare key. It was under a piece of fake shit on the front lawn.” A lone, cynical, evil laugh left his lips, and Rafael could feel Amanda's skin crawl with fear and loathing. The skin between her brows furrowed, and she crossed her arms. “Should I know who you are, or even care?” She was pissed and definitely a force to reckon with. The man's smirk disturbed her. The intruder looked over at Rafael who still looked shocked and annoyed to see this man standing in his living room. “I must admit, it took me a long time to find you two after you left Texas. I just can’t believe Rafael never mentioned me before.” He tried for the saddened look, but failed miserably. “Hmph, it must have slipped his mind. Or, maybe you’re just not important enough to mention.” Livid, Amanda had no idea she dealt with a dangerous fire that could explode in her face, but neither did he. Rafael stepped up and placed his hand on Amanda’s shoulder. The gesture was meant to calm her anger, and keep her from saying anything else. “This is my half brother, Martin. He’s my mother’s son from a previous marriage.” Martin took a small bow. “Pleased to meet you, ma’am,” he mocked with his southern twang. The accent was obviously from Texas, or at least a Southern state. Amanda apparently did not like him one bit. “Charmed, I’m sure.” Her words oozed with venom and sarcasm. She turned to Rafael with daggers in her eyes, the emerald green replaced with an amber fire. “I’ll get our bags and unpack. I’m sure you two have important things to discuss, especially since your brother felt he had to take it 40

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upon himself to let himself into our home.” She threw Martin a disapproving look before she went out the door for their bags. It seemed that she wasn’t too thrilled with Rafael right then. She obviously couldn’t understand why he didn’t throw the man out at first glance. Rafael was sure she blamed the familial connection as she stomped out of the room. The passionate woman Rafael had married only two years ago was now an angry venomous snake, ready to strike. Amanda was a soft, gentle, loving person, but invade her privacy and she could take down a grizzly bear. Rafael watched her grab their things and head to the bedroom at the end of the long hallway. He turned back to Martin, who had been staring as well. “I’ll ask again, what the hell are you doing here?” “Aww, come on, little bro. Can’t a man visit his only brother on a whim?” He patted Rafael on the shoulder and walked back to the couch. Dropping down on the soft black leather, he propped his feet on the coffee table. He stretched his arms behind his head and let out a satisfied sigh. “Mighty fine place you two have here. Hope you don’t mind that I helped myself to some of your food. I was starvin’ after being on that damn bus for so many days.” He peered up at Rafael, who didn’t try to hide the anger welling inside him. The two never saw eye to eye, and Martin had always lived with his father. Rafael did all he could to control his temper. There could only be two reasons his brother would have mysteriously shown up. Either the man needed money, or he was running from someone, most likely the law. “Don’t make me ask you again, Martin.” In a reflexive action, Rafael’s hands balled up into fists. “Don’t get all bent outta shape. Mom said you might could help me out.” “She did, huh? What kind of help do you need?” Rafael cringed at the thought that his own mother gave into Martin’s lies, and sent him to their house for help. “I just need a small loan. See, there’s these guys, and they don’t take too kindly to not getting paid right away.” Martin was a traveling gambler and a bad one at that. He owed money all across the country, but somehow he always managed to get away without paying it. This time it seemed as though it had all caught up to him. “I don’t have anything for you.” Rafael crossed his arms across his broad chest, determined not to give in to his brother’s attempts. 41

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“Bullshit. I know you’ve got something. How could you not? You have to keep this house and make sure that gorgeous wife of yours is happy.” Rafael almost snarled at the mention of Amanda. He couldn’t deny that she was hot. He pointed at the intruder, the veins in his forehead throbbing. “Fuck you, Martin. We make enough to make ends meet, that’s all we need to have, and that’s all you need to know.” Rafael knew his brother’s temper could flare at any given moment, but he was very well trained to handle it. The Marines didn’t pay him the big bucks for nothing. Rafael was Special Ops, which meant he was a legally paid killing machine. Something seemed to snap in Martin’s head. “I would hate for something bad to happen, little brother. This house sure is pretty, and that wife of yours, well,” he bit his lower lip and groaned. “She sure is fine as hell.” Rafael cleared the distance between them in two strides and grabbed Martin by the throat, lifting him from his spot on the couch and maneuvering him around it. He could hear the man struggling to get a breath of air. “You listen to me you piece of shit.” He held his brother’s face close to his. “If anything should happen, and I mean anything, I will kill you myself. No one is gonna miss your sorry ass, and they’ll never find your body either.” Rafael released him. Martin dropped to the floor, gagging for air and rubbing his throat. Struggling to his feet, he headed straight for the exit. He saw Amanda standing in the door to the bedroom as he passed the hall. He smirked at her and grabbed the doorknob. “You’re gonna live to regret this, bro.” “Get the fuck outta my house!” boomed Rafael’s voice, echoing off the tiles. Martin slinked away, but Rafael knew in his gut that he would be back. Martin was always looking for the easy way out. Rafael blamed his mother for that. She always gave in and gave Martin whatever he wanted. It was her motherly instinct, but it still pissed him off. He was going to be sure his brother learned the hard way this time around. Amanda rushed down the hall and wrapped herself in Rafael’s arms. She trembled as her earlier gust of bravery had diminished. “Do you think he’ll be back?” her voice cracked when she spoke. 42

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“Yeah, babe, I think he will.” Rafael didn’t want to frighten his wife, but there was no doubt in his mind Martin would return angrier than when he had stormed off.

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Chapter Six

Rafael had finished changing all the locks in the house by the time the sun had set. In his anger and desperation to get Martin out of the house, he’d forgotten to demand the key back. He knew there was a good chance his psychotic brother would return, and with a vengeance. Amanda busied herself in the kitchen, making dinner. They had barely eaten during their week’s getaway, so she decided she would spoil Rafael some more with a lavish home cooked meal. Besides, she didn’t want to see him changing the locks on their new home. It made her uneasy and pissed her off all over again. She hated having to flip her world around because of one asshole with a temper. Her mind flashed to a dark recess in her memory, but she pushed it aside. Rafael waltzed into the kitchen after the last lock was replaced. He took a deep breath, and exhaled loudly. “Mm, baby, that smells great.” He came up behind her and kissed her gently on the cheek. “I figured you probably worked up an appetite,” she replied as she stirred the black beans one last time. The kiss he had placed burned through to her soul. “I sure did, but I could eat too.” Rafael raised an eyebrow and grinned. Amanda heard the seductive humor in his voice and shook her head. “We really need to have dinner. We didn’t eat all week,” she turned to face him, and wrapped her arms around his waist. “But, I’m all for some dessert after.” “Well, hot damn. Serve it up, baby,” he rubbed his hands together as he spoke. “Go set the table then, and I’ll bring out the plates.” They enjoyed their meal and each other’s company. Rafael told her what he could about his training between bites of his roasted pork, and how he missed her all those months. He took a sip of champagne as he talked. 44

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He mentioned how he especially missed her warm naked body pressed up against him at night. Because of his letters and phone calls from various stations, Amanda knew he lacked his usual fire when they were apart. That was one reason that she had taken the time to throw on his favorite purple negligee and had let her hair fall loosely down her back. She just wanted to show him, in as many ways as possible, just how much he meant to her. In turn, Amanda told of how her job at the law firm was going. She had several new cases she was working on and was doing all she could to make partner one day. “They’ve been giving me more responsibilities lately. I think I’ll have this partner thing nailed in another six months.” She was well on her way to success. “I knew you could do it. All you had to do was set your mind to it.” Rafael had always had the utmost confidence in her and in her ability as an attorney. She also admitted how much she missed him. How, on more than one occasion, she had to relieve herself over and over, just to feel the satisfaction he always brought her. “I think I need an example,” Rafael smirked as he rested his head on his hand to listen to her story. “What do you want me to tell you? Do you want to hear how I had to masturbate in the shower nearly every night because thoughts of you attacked me? How my hands would massage my breasts beneath the hot water? How my fingers could never get deep enough inside to satisfy me the way you could?” she smiled and bit her lip as she saw the expression on her husband’s face turn to lustful hunger. “Was that the example you were looking for?” *** Rafael nodded in awe as he sat and listened, picturing how incredibly sexy she must have looked masturbating naked in their shower. There was nothing he loved more than to watch her writhe in pleasure, even by her own hands. The images in his mind woke his dormant cock with a fury. “Babe, I hate to change the subject, but, um,” he glanced down at his tightening pants. “I’m REALLY ready for dessert now.” An evil grin spread across Amanda’s full lips. “Well, I don’t want to keep you waiting. I’ll serve it in the bedroom.” She rose from the table, walked over to him for a kiss, and then cleared a few of the dishes. 45

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Rafael felt her kiss linger on his lips as he scurried to the bedroom to wait for her. He heard her place the dishes in the sink and open the refrigerator. A few minutes later, he heard her light steps as she entered the hall and he grinned to himself. Rafael had stripped down to his boxer briefs, and anxiously waited for Amanda, sprawled on his back across the king sized bed. He knew what she liked to eat for dessert. He considered the thought of her first taste in six months. His cock rose in anticipation as he heard her light, clicking footsteps on the tile just outside the room. Rafael raised himself on his elbows and glanced toward the door. Amanda stood in the doorway naked except for her black stiletto heels and the can of whipped cream in her right hand. “Are you ready?” she purred as she stepped into the bedroom and sashayed toward him. He licked his lips as he watched her naked form come towards him. Amanda’s firm tanned body swayed as her breasts bounced with every step. Rafael loved to look at her. He gazed at her lovingly. “My God, you’re a Latin goddess,” he breathed in awe. Amanda stopped at the foot of the bed, and placed her free hand on her hip, shaking the can with the other. “You’re not so bad yourself.” She reached out with her hand and touched his foot. She stepped close to the bed and ran her hand the length of his leg to his thigh. He tensed as she got to his inner thigh, but that was as far as she went. She removed her hand and looked at the disappointment on his face. “Why did you stop?” he heard himself whine. His cock had begun to strain in his boxer briefs. Amanda nodded at the sight of the rise, and bit her lower lip. “That’s why.” She pointed at the covered erection. “I wanted to be sure he was awake for dessert.” “Mmm, so what’s on the menu?” Rafael wanted to be sure there was something for him as well. “For me, Cuban log cake with whipped cream,” she licked her lips as she said it. “And, for you, sweet nectar pudding with whipped cream,” she raised an eyebrow and smiled. She placed the can on the bed, and reached up to the waistband of Rafael’s underwear. “You won’t be needing these.” With one swoop, and a little help from Rafael, she got his shorts off and tossed them aside. His proud cock now had room to stand at full attention. 46

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Amanda spread his legs a little, and climbed onto the bed between them. She gently rubbed his balls while she watched the expression on his face. Rafael gazed at her before closing his eyes, as though to absorb all the pleasure she was giving him. She removed her hand and lifted her body over him, slowly rubbing her breast across his body as she made her way to his face. She rested her body on his, and kissed him deeply and passionately. It was as though she was feeding a strong need and desire for him. She couldn’t explain it, but her heart ached for him. She released his lips and made her way back down his body, gliding her breast upon his skin as she went. Rafael was tense. He moaned every so often, but he couldn’t bring himself to move. He enjoyed being victim to Amanda’s prowess and seduction. It made him feel loved and wanted, and horny as hell. Amanda reached next to her and grabbed the can of whipped cream. She shook the bottle then sprayed a dot on the tip of his cock. The sudden cold made Rafael shiver. She looked into his eyes as she leaned down and took the head of his cock between her full lips, gently sucking off the whipped cream. He rumbled deep in his throat as she released the head, and savored the taste. “Mm, papi, delicioso.” Rafael took in a breath. “There’s plenty more if you’re still hungry.” “Baby, no one said I’d had my fill yet.” With that said, she shook the can again, but this time she sprayed the length of him, from base to head. Again, the cold cream made him shiver. Amanda didn’t let that reaction affect him for too long. She leaned in and took him into her mouth completely, until the tip of his manhood nudged the back of her throat. He gasped as he felt his cock engulfed in her warm mouth. Pressing her tongue against his rock hard member, she slowly sucked back up to the tip. She pulled as though she were drinking out of a straw, keeping her tongue firmly in place. When she released him and swallowed the cream, she flicked the tip of his head with her tongue. By this time, Rafael was nearly out of his mind with pleasure and desire. There was no way he could wait any longer for his dessert. He needed the sweet nectar--now. He sat up suddenly and grabbed Amanda by the shoulders. She looked startled at his movement. “I can’t take it anymore, I need some dessert too.” 47

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Amanda laughed at the desperation in his voice. “But I wasn’t finished with mine yet. I still have at least one more bite.” “The hell you do,” he growled. He moved aside and threw her onto her back in his place, snatching the can from her in the process. He saw the amusement on her face as she landed softly onto the bed. “You’re an evil woman, you know that?” “Uh huh,” she smiled back at him. She had to know exactly what she was doing when she walked into that bedroom naked. She guessed that if she got him riled up first, he would work twice as hard to make her cum. It was evil, she was aware of that, but the pleasure he gave was unreal. Rafael straddled her waist, and shook the can. He sprayed circles around her large rosy nipples. He saw Amanda shiver from the sensation and her nipples went erect immediately. He lowered his head to each one in turn, suckling them and devouring the cream. She moaned beneath his expert tongue. The sound made his cock jolt in excitement. Rafael moved lower down her body and shook the can once again. He placed a thin strip of whipped cream from the center of her perfect breasts and down past her belly button. Amanda gasped, her breath quickening at the thought of what was next. He knew she could feel his warm breath between her breasts as he tongued the cream off her body. He moved slowly down her front, making sure not to miss any spots. He felt Amanda shiver beneath him with every lap of his tongue, until he reached the last covered spot. Rafael gently spread her legs and sprayed her precious pearl with the whipped cream. Nestling himself between her legs, he lowered his head to her nectar drenched lips. The whipped cream immediately melted and mixed with her hot juices. Rafael thought he was in heaven as he ran his tongue along her lips and flicked her clit. Tossing the can aside, he stayed to suckle and nibble mercilessly on her clit. Amanda’s body writhed in pleasure, as he demanded more and more of her. He wanted her to scream out, and cum all over his waiting mouth. He couldn’t get enough of her. The taste of her was orgasmic in itself. Amanda grabbed onto the sheets as she tried to keep from losing total control. The attempt failed. He knew she was about to reach her final breaking ground, when Rafael stopped. It was only a split second. Just as she was about to protest, he shoved 48

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his cock inside her and began to thrust. He pumped as hard and as fast as he could. They both moaned and screamed as the orgasm came in a rush of juices and sweat. Rafael pulled out slowly, and collapsed next to her. He held her in his arms, and kissed her deeply. His kiss was loving and gentle, sending chills up and down his spine. Their love was unconditional, and nothing or no one could ever come between them.

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Chapter Seven

At two in the morning, the phone rang. Not completely awake, Amanda answered. “Hello,” she grumbled into the receiver. “Do you really think a new lock is going to keep me from getting what I want?” Martin’s voice came through like a low rumble. He was angry, and obviously drunk as well. “Your brother already told you we have no money to give you. Bother someone else,” she was about to hang up, but he cut in right away. “I don’t want your money anymore. I saw something I want more,” he paused for a moment before he continued. He didn’t wait for any reactions from Amanda. “I want some of that dessert you were handing out after dinner tonight.” Amanda gasped. Had he seen them? Why was he spying on them? How dangerous was he? She could hear the smugness in his voice. The thought of him having watched them made her shiver, but her anger overpowered her fear. She regained a moment of bravery, “You’d better disappear before I tell Rafael.” “Do you think that scares me? Nothing keeps me from what I want. And right now, I want you.” His throat eased out a cynical laugh. “I’ll be seeing you soon.” He hung up before Amanda could say anything else. Amanda sat frozen on the bed with the receiver still in her left hand. She didn’t know whether to scream and wake Rafael, or to find their shotgun and post herself at the bedroom door. Her fear and anger blended into one emotion-- neither of which was good. She tried to get back to sleep. The only comfort she found was that Rafael didn’t have to report back to base for another few weeks. Perhaps Martin’s stalking would grow old and he would just leave. Rafael woke with his inner alarm clock at seven. He turned to Amanda to find she was lying in bed awake. “Are you ok?” She smiled as best she could, “Yes, I’m fine. Why do you ask?” 50

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He rubbed her cheek with his hand, looking into her red and tired eyes. “You were tossing and turning most of the night. Did you have a bad dream?” Amanda took a deep breath and shut her eyes. She didn’t want to worry Rafael so early in the morning, but she knew she had to tell him. She opened her eyes and gazed upon his worried features. “The phone rang at two in the morning.” “Who the hell was calling at that hour?” She took another breath, to prepare herself for the rush of anger and hatred Rafael was going to feel. “It was Martin.” Rafael sat straight up in a rage. There was fire in his eyes, and ice in his voice as he spoke through clenched teeth. “Tell me he called to say he was leaving and never bothering us again.” Oh how she wished she could tell him that. “No, baby, he didn’t,” she sat up and told Rafael everything Martin said. “That fucking piece of shit…he has no idea who he’s fucking with.” Rafael got out of bed and paced the room. “You are not to leave this house for any reason. Am I clear?” He was furious, it was written all over his face. How dare his brother threaten them. She knew he would not allow anyone to mess with his family, especially not a low life like Martin. “Rafael, try to calm down. He’s not going to do anything if you’re home. You’ll be here for another few weeks, and by then he may have given up.” Amanda tried to console him, but there was no retreat in his outraged expression. “I swear, Mandi, if he comes anywhere near you, I’ll kill him with my bare hands.” Amanda had never seen Rafael so angry, but then again, he had never had reason to be. She was not fully aware of the history between the two men. She assumed it was nothing close to pleasant if Rafael said he could kill his brother. Oddly enough, his anger and threat to kill did not frighten her. It was a side she was unaccustomed to seeing, but she felt no fear. She was at peace with the fact that she knew he could never hurt her. She felt safe, secure and protected. Though they knew each other pretty well, their pasts were cloudy and sketchy at best. Rafael stepped out of the bathroom a few minutes later. He had showered and seemed much calmer. “I’m sorry you saw me so angry. I didn’t mean to scare you.” He 51

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lowered his head in shame, and sat on the edge of the bed, with his back to her. He must be feeling guilty for not having controlled his anger better. Amanda moved close to him and rubbed his bare back. “You didn’t scare me. You startled me with your anger, but I was never scared of you.” He turned to face her. “I would never hurt you, you know that, right?” Amanda smiled at the worried man gazing back at her. “Of course I know that. I never doubted it for a second.” She placed her hands on his face, and gently kissed his pouted lips. She wanted to reassure him that everything was fine. Rafael let out a sigh of relief. She knew it killed him to think that the woman he loved could fear him. It must be a load off his shoulders to know she was fine with his sudden outburst. “That guy just pisses me off beyond belief, and the thought of him hurting you sent me off my rocker.” She laughed at his choice of words. “I understand. Let’s not talk about it anymore and get some breakfast.” Amanda felt a sudden rush of lust as she got up from the bed, and walked into the bathroom. There was something about a man who would kill for the woman he loved that sent an erotic spark through her. It actually excited her to know he would defend her with such force and conviction. That he would use his bare hands to take the life of another, in order to keep her out of harm’s way. As horrific as it sounded when said aloud, it was comforting at the same time, knowing that unconditional love and devotion was there. Given a similar situation, she knew she would do the same. Neither of them was hungry enough to eat much of a breakfast. Amanda made herself a small pot of coffee, and tossed two bagels into the toaster oven. They sat at the kitchen counter and ate in silence. *** Rafael stormed into the bathroom, and slammed the door. He didn’t want Amanda to see him at his worst. She was not aware of his true rage, and he had no desire to let her see it, ever. He was a trained killer for the Marines, but he refused to bring it home with him. He never wanted for his beloved wife to fear him. She knew what his job was, but not the whole story. She never knew the extent of his job description; it was confidential and sealed information. He was thankful for that much. He couldn’t stand 52

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for Amanda to know he was a paid assassin for the government. It would crush her image of him, and that would kill him. He hated to lie to her, but the less she knew, the safer she was. Thoughts of strangling Martin kept entering Rafael’s mind. It made him feel warm and fuzzy inside. There was something wrong with that picture and yet, it continued to materialize. A smile crept across his face despite his efforts to suppress it. “What are you thinking?” Amanda asked as she watched the corners of his mouth curl. “Huh? What?” Rafael shook his head as though waking from a daydream. Amanda furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. “You had a smile on your face all of a sudden. I was wondering what put it there.” “Oh, that,” he had to think fast. What would she think of him if she knew he was contemplating murder and liking it? “I was just remembering how delicious dessert was last night.” Rafael grinned at her and hoped she bought his story. Amanda blushed at the comment, memories rushing to her as well. “You see what you’ve turned me into,” she giggled. “I used to be a good girl.” Rafael gave an inner sigh of relief before he spoke. “You still are a good girl.” Amanda looked over the rim of her mug as she took a sip of coffee. “How do you figure?” He swallowed the last bite of his bagel and licked the cream cheese off his fingers. “You’re good at making me horny.” She let out a hearty laugh, nearly shooting coffee out of her nose, “That I am.” Rafael helped her clear their plates and load the dishwasher. His thoughts still swarmed with the 2 am phone call his wife had to endure. He felt Amanda would be safe in the house, but how could he be sure? He could get an alarm installed, but that would make her a prisoner in her own home. That wasn’t what he wanted for his Amanda. He had taught her how to handle a weapon. She was a fast learner. They had a small arsenal, from handguns to shotguns to hunting rifles. Worst-case scenario, she could shoot the bastard. “Do we have any plans for today?” he asked as he sat back in his stool. “Not really. I thought we could just cuddle on the couch and watch movies all day and then maybe order some pizza for dinner.” Amanda just wanted to spend time with him, and he was sure she didn’t feel like cooking. 53

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“Sounds like a plan.” Rafael stood from the stool and headed out of the kitchen. “How ‘bout I get a quick mile run in? Then I can shower and we’ll go to the video store together.” “Perfect! That gives me time to do some laundry and vacuum the bedrooms.” Rafael gave her a peck on the cheek before he trotted off to the bedroom to slip on his running pants and a t-shirt. He was ready in five minutes, and yelled his good-bye as he ran out the door, making sure to lock it behind him. *** Amanda finished in the kitchen and went to the bedroom to dress. She threw on a t-shirt and some shorts and grabbed up all the dirty laundry she could find, throwing it into the wash. As she walked through the house peering at the windows, her nerves were a little on end. She was afraid Martin would show up, especially after his phone call, but she didn’t want to be caught off guard. The fact the Rafael wasn’t home didn’t help matters either. She went about her chores, vacuumed the four bedrooms, and mopped the tiles. Just as she finished, Rafael walked in the door drenched in sweat. She gave a sigh of relief and asked, “Did you have a good run?”

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Chapter Eight

Almost three months had passed. Rafael and Amanda had not heard from Martin since his two a.m. call. They assumed he was on the run and had disappeared again. They went about their daily lives, and Rafael had finally returned to work after having been home for six weeks. The daily grind wore on both of them, but at least they didn’t have to live in fear. Amanda had not been feeling well for the past week, so her office gave her permission to take her files and work at home. They didn’t want to see her cases fall onto another attorney. The partners knew she was the best, and they wanted that for their clients. She made herself comfortable on the couch while Rafael scurried around the house, getting ready for work. He always seemed to misplace something he needed at the last minute. “Where the hell are my keys?” he hollered from the bedroom. Amanda shook her head and stared at the set on the coffee table. “They’re right here where you left them, babe.” Rafael rushed in, swooped up his keys, and kissed Amanda on the head. “Thanks, babe, gotta go.” “Have a good day,” she said to his back as he ran out the door in his fatigues. Amanda could hear the heavy footsteps of his boots as he made his way to his car. She reached onto the coffee table and turned on her laptop, then got up and went to the kitchen to get some more coffee. On the counter she noticed Rafael had left his wallet. She grabbed it and ran to the door, knowing he couldn’t get into the building without it since his passkey was inside. She hoped he was still in the driveway. Amanda flung open the door and smacked right into Martin, who was about to try and pick the lock. “Well, thank you. That’s much easier than breaking and entering,” he grinned at her. 55

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That evil chill went down her spine as she finally reacted, and tried to slam the door in his face. He stopped it with his hand and shoved it open. “Now is that any way to treat a guest?” Amanda took a few steps back. Her mind raced. What should she do? Getting to the phone wasn’t an option, but she had to make a break for it. “What do you want? Why are you here?” One corner of his mouth turned up into what looked like a snarl. “You know what I want. I’ve come to collect on my dessert.” Her heart leapt to her throat. She clenched her teeth and made a mad dash to her bedroom. Martin didn’t have enough time to react to her maneuver. She scrambled into the room and locked the door behind her. She heard his footsteps coming down the hall, but he took his time getting there. “So, you wanna play hard to get, do ya? You’re gonna lose, and I WILL get a piece of that pie.” The chill racing down her spine turned to a raging anger she had not felt in years. Amanda went to her safe in the closet, under the floorboards, and pulled out her favorite handgun. A Titanium Taurus Millennium, with a trigger pull specially made for her. Checking the clip, she chambered a bullet into the barrel. Now she was ready for Martin. The dark cloud of her past hovered overhead. Amanda got up, put the gun in the back of her jeans, and covered it with her blouse. She wanted to give him one last chance to leave before she had to kill him. The thought of having to clean blood out of her carpet pissed her off even more. Somehow though, she knew the only way he would leave was in a body bag. Her past flooded her mind, but she pushed it all aside, needing to focus on the maniac trying to get into her bedroom. Amanda sat patiently on the bed, waiting for Martin to get the door unlocked and enter the room. He finally got it opened and just waltzed in. He saw her sitting calmly on the bed, staring at him. Her demeanor amused him. “Are you giving up?” Amanda crossed her leg and folded her arms in front of her. “Actually, I’m going to give you one last chance to leave my house, and never come back.” She smiled smugly and waited for his response. An eerie calm had taken over her. 56

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The man had the nerve to laugh at her. “Are you kidding me? What the hell could you do if I refuse? Look at you, you’re just a woman.” His incessant laughter continued. Amanda turned up an eyebrow and glared at him. “Looks can be deceiving, Martin. I know you’re a gambling man, but are you sure you want to wager with your life?” The helpless innocent woman Rafael thought he married had disappeared, and in her place was the old Amanda, ready to rage war to defend her home. “Whatever, bitch,” Martin took a step forward. Amanda whipped her right arm around and came back with a gun in hand, aimed at his chest. Arm steadied, her features were focused and hard. All her training was not in vain. Rafael would have been proud. She uncrossed her leg and stood up, taking a step away from the bed, toward Martin. “What the fuck are you doing?” Martin nervously took a step back. He had been caught off guard, and never carried a weapon of his own. Something she was sure he regretted. “I gave you the chance to leave. You refused. I’m defending myself from an intruder who intended to rape me.” She continued to glare at him with fire in her eyes. “You’re lying.” Martin took another step backward, and Amanda took another forward. “Who do you think the cops will believe?” she tore the top buttons on her blouse as she spoke. “I understand you have quite a record and reputation. I, on the other hand, am an established attorney married to a highly decorated officer in the Marines.” Amanda couldn’t help but smile. She pulled the torn blouse off one shoulder. “You’re fucking crazy.” In his insanity, he tried to make a move towards her. He thought he could disarm her, but he was wrong, very wrong. Amanda fired her weapon and Martin fell to the floor in a screaming mess. There was more blood in his thigh than she had anticipated. “Shit! Now look at the mess I have to clean. Do you know how hard it is to get blood out of carpet?” “You fucking shot me.” “Yeah, asshole, and you’re lucky I didn’t kill you. What made you think you could come in here and take what you wanted?” 57

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Martin cried from the pain, and was suddenly scared. “I wasn’t gonna rape ya, I swear.” “Then what the hell did you come here for?” Although she didn’t care, there was an ounce of curiosity that made her wonder what his story was. “I was gonna try to get some money outta ya.” “We already told you we have none. Where did you think you would get it from?” she was annoyed by the conversation. “You’re husband has money. I know he does,” he paused for a minute to squeeze his leg in pain. “He makes a shit load of money. Don’t you know what he does?” Martin waved his arms in exaggerated expression as he spoke, emphasizing as he continued. “He’s an officer for the Marines. The rest is classified. He can’t tell me everything.” Amanda’s curiosity was slightly piqued again. *** “Don’t you wanna know what he really does?” The evil grin had returned to Martin’s face despite the throbbing pain and extreme loss of blood. He felt a little lightheaded, but he ignored it. He didn’t want to miss telling Amanda the truth about Rafael, and the truth about how they met. During one of his high roller card games he met a man that talked too much when he drank. He mentioned a woman he had been searching for because she had a price on her head. With a little research and talking to all the wrong people, he miraculously discovered it was Amanda. “How could you possibly know if I don’t even know?” The discussion was getting on her last nerve. “Why do you think he’s so good with all them weapons?” “If this is a guessing game, I’m not playing.” Now she was pissed. She aimed the gun at him again. “Just tell me.” “Ok, ok, put that thing away.” He waved his arm at her. “He’s an assassin. He kills for the government.” He saw Amanda’s forehead furrow in thought. It actually made sense in a way. He was an expert marksman, and there were times when he was sent away. The fact that his job and missions were classified kept him from telling her where he was going and why. The funny part, she wasn’t at all shocked, she’d known all along. Her own life was shrouded with lies and mystery. It was her job to know everything. 58

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“That was not the look I was going for. You should have been shocked, or something,” Martin was disappointed. “Was that all you had? Did you think I was going to give you money because you said Rafael is an assassin? You’re sadly mistaken.” “I’ve got more. He didn’t meet you by accident, you know.” Her heart stopped. How cold he know that? “Go on.” “You were one of his targets. He was supposed to kill you.” Martin felt another throb of pain and his head spun. His thigh was killing him. Panic quaked Amanda's voice, ever so slightly. “Do you know why he was supposed to kill me?” “I know, but they never told him. That’s one of the reasons he couldn’t go through with it. He always needed to know why he had to kill the people he was assigned. His superiors wouldn’t give him an answer, so he refused the assignment. The higher ups gave it to someone else, but you disappeared before the new guy could get to you. I’m guessing Rafael got you out of there. He can be a smooth talker when he needs to.” Martin was much more confident. He knew he had something on Amanda. How could she refuse him now? If she did, he would tell Rafael the truth about her. Tell him who she really was, and why he was sent to kill her. “So, lemme get this straight.” Amanda’s mind was going a mile a minute. She had formulated a plan before she spoke again. “Rafael has no idea why he was sent to kill me, but somehow you do. I find that hard to believe.” It was a risk, but she needed to know what he knew. She had managed to get away from her past, and refused to let some nobody take that away from her. “Lemme put it to you this way, toots. There’s a good reason you can handle a gun the way you do. Is that enough for you to believe I know who you are?” Martin went for the smart-ass angle. Not too bright a move on his part. “I could get good money for your head in your country.” Amanda hated smart-asses with big mouths. They tended to talk too much, and she couldn’t afford that. Amanda cocked her head to the side and smiled. “It sure is enough, Martin.” She aimed the gun and fired, shooting Martin in the head. He dropped like a sack of bricks. “And, don’t ever call me toots.” She calmly walked to the phone on the nightstand and called the police, faking hysterics, just as Rafael rushed in. 59

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*** Rafael had made it all the way to work and realized he didn’t have his wallet, so he returned to the house to get it. Hearing the gunfire, he bolted into the house. He was afraid something had happened to Amanda. Instead he walked into a completely different scenario than what had played in his mind. He looked at Amanda, then to the bloody heap on the floor. Thankful, in a way, but shocked at the same time. He didn’t know Amanda had it in her to kill, but he knew it had to be in self-defense. “This is an emergency! I just shot an intruder!” Began Amanda’s distressed call to the police. Rafael was going to have questions of his own when the police left. She could see the confusion in his eyes when he had walked into the bedroom. What could she tell him that wouldn’t make him want to leave her? And so, her secret remained safe, but the guilt of having kept it from her husband all these years haunted her. *** The police and coroners finally left, leaving Amanda and Rafael alone to sort out the disaster. Rafael sat in the recliner in the living room and buried his face in his hands, deep in thought. Raising his head, he furrowed his brow at his wife, “You’ve been keeping something from me. I never taught you to shoot like that.” Amanda could see the hurt and turmoil on his face. She had known that one day her past would catch up with her and that someone would find her, but it was never supposed to be like this. Never someone they knew. Walking around the couch, she knelt at his feet, “Yes I have, but so have you.” Looking into her emerald eyes, losing his soul all over again, he murmured, “I thought we were supposed to tell each other everything.” Resting her head on his left knee, “So did I, but everyone has their secrets.” Rafael gently lifted her head with his hand, “I don’t want to keep anymore secrets.” A tear streamed down her face as her heart screamed out for him. “Neither do I.”

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The rest of the evening was spent telling one another their entire past history. Rafael explained what he did for the Marines and went back as far as when they met. He told her how they had sent him there to kill a woman, but never told him who or why. Amanda in turn told him she was a spy and assassin for Cuba, and that the woman he was supposed to kill was her. “Funny how things work out, isn’t it?” She forced a smile. “So you knew who I was all along?” This information worried Rafael. Amanda could see the concern in his eyes, but she had to be truthful. “Yes, I did, but,” she paused and took his hands in hers. “I honestly and truly fell in love with you. You are my light at the end of a dark tunnel.” More tears welled in her eyes and her throat tightened as she spoke. “I never want you to doubt that. At first you were my only way out in Italy, but all that changed the night you brought me to your home.” Rafael wiped her tears with his thumb and lowered his head to hers, forehead to forehead. “I never doubted your love for a second.” Amanda let out a breath of relief. Never in her life had she been so scared. Looking into his loving eyes once more she confessed, “I don’t want to stay here tonight. Can we go somewhere?” “I know the perfect place.”

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EPILOGUE

The sun rose beyond the vast ocean, casting its reflection upon the glassy waters. Amanda’s naked body stirred on the blanket that lay on the deck of their small yacht. Arching her back, she stretched and woke to find Rafael gazing at her. Reaching out with her right hand, she placed it on his stubbled face, rubbing his cheek with her thumb. “Did you sleep well?” he asked in a low rumbling voice that vibrated in his chest. “Mm hm, how could I not? It’s beautiful out here in the middle of nowhere.” Taking in a deep breath, she could hear the waves crashing against the side of their vessel. “I knew this was better than going to some hotel.” Leaning down, he kissed her gently, savoring her lips with his tongue. “Much better,” Amanda held his face to hers. Relief washed over her as he invaded her mouth with his tongue. The outpour of secrets had left the two drained. Curiosity still lingered with certain aspects of Rafael’s job. She gently pulled away from his kiss, “Would you have killed me if they gave you a reason?” “What?” Rafael had been caught off guard. “Would you have gone through with it and killed me?” Rafael let out a breath and sat up next to her. “I didn’t know you. I would have had to go through with the task assigned. You said yourself you were an assassin and a spy.” “Would that have been a good enough reason for you, had they given you that information?” “Where is all this coming from? Why do you want to know?” Rafael apparently didn’t like where this was going. 62

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“I dunno, I’m curious.” She paused for a minute. “Ok, what if we had met first, then you got the assignment. Would you have been able to do it then?” “Mandi, this isn’t healthy. Can we talk about something else?” Rafael suddenly appeared very uncomfortable. “Oh come on,” she laughed it off as though it were just a passing thought. “Just tell me.” “I don’t know Mandi. If I met you first I probably wouldn’t have been able to do it. I fell for you that very first day.” Amanda’s heart melted with the answer. She hoped he would tell her just that because she knew she would have done the same thing if the roles were reversed. Sitting up, she threw her arms around him and squeezed as tight as she could. “I knew you would say that.” ”Good, I don’t wanna be in a spot like that again.” Rafael let out a sigh of relief and squeezed back. “Wait, I have one last question then we can drop this for good.” “Ask away,” she batted her eyelashes and waited for his question. “Where did you get the cool ass gun you shot Martin with? I know I didn’t buy it for you.” “Ah, that. It was a souvenir I kept from my spy days. I didn’t have the heart to part with it.” Smiling proudly, she puffed out her chest, “it makes me feel tough.” Rafael rolled his eyes at her, “Yeah, babe, you’re a regular bad-ass.” Amanda wanted to prove it, but she refrained. There were just some things better left hidden and secret. It would crush Rafael to know his wife could kick his butt because she was better trained. A man needed to feel like the dominant figure, so she gave him that much. Rafael stood on the deck and looked out into the expanse of the world around them. “So, my beautiful bride, where shall we sail to?” Amanda’s eyes lit up in excitement. “We can go somewhere? Don’t you have to work?” “I have a few days for bereavement,” he winked at her. “Let’s go to the Bahamas.” “Your wish is my command.”

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