www.beautifultroublepublishing.com
Copyright © 2011 by Milana Howard All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or shared in any form, including but not limited to: printing, photocopying, faxing, recording, electronic transmission, or by any information storage or retrieval system without prior written permission from the authors or holders of the copyright. This book is a work of fiction. References may be made to locations and historical events; however, names, characters, places and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination and/or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons (living or dead), businesses, events or locales is either used fictitiously or coincidental. All trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, and registered service marks are the property of their respective owners and are used herein for identification purposes only. Published by Beautiful Trouble Publishing, LLC PO Box 61 Colfax, NC 27235 www.beautifultroublepublishing.com Cover Art: Shara Azod, www.sharaazod.com Editor: Stephanie Parent Proofreader: Barb Wilson Formatter: Jim & Zetta, http://www.jimandzetta.com/ E-book Conversion: Jim & Zetta, http://www.jimandzetta.com/ ISBN: (e-book) 978-1-61788-236-4
For those who believe in happily ever after.
Note about eBooks eBooks are NOT transferable. Re-selling, sharing or giving away eBooks is a copyright infringement. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the author or Beautiful Trouble Publishing.
CAVEAT This work of erotica contains adult language and sexually explicit scenes, which are smoking hot. This book is intended only for adults, as it is defined by the laws of the country in which the purchase is made. Keep this book out of the hands of under-aged readers.
Chapter One Time to start the countdown. Bryer Gaudet was in the middle of completing the nightly closing procedures at his bar, Votives. The sudden sound of glass shattering in the distance caused him to cringe. Immediately following the awful noise, Tara called out, “Sorry!” When his gaze met Sabrina’s, he knew she’d more than likely give her signature I-told-you-so eyebrow raise. She didn’t fail to meet his expectation. “Don’t look in this direction unless you want the truth.” Sabrina was reviewing the closing paperwork from the register. Stacks of receipts were organized into neat, paper-clipped piles. It was obvious she didn’t trust that Tara’s transactions had been performed correctly. “All right. Lay it on me.” Bryer prepared for the worst as he pushed up his shirt sleeves and wiped down the bar’s surface with a rag. “I have nothing personal against Tara. She tries. However, she’s been working here for three weeks and can’t keep an order straight. And has she ever served a drink without spilling it?” He let out a deep sigh. “I’ll admit she’s clumsy, but I thought she’d eventually catch on.” 7
Sabrina’s Song “Mm-hm. Keep telling yourself that.” “Okay, so maybe I made a mistake. No need to bust my balls,” he said with a laugh. “I’m just saying. You’re the one who hired her based on boobs, not brains.” Bryer looked pointedly at her chest. Though he was no expert on bra sizes, he’d guess that Sabrina’s breasts couldn’t be contained by the first four letters of the alphabet. Those mounds of glory had distracted him more than a few times. With feigned innocence, he whistled and went back to cleaning the bar. Sabrina laughed. “The difference here,” she gestured to her top heaviness, “is that they don’t subtract IQ points as they do in Tara’s case. Or she’s one of those chicks who believe having a huge rack means you don’t have to think. Either way, you only have yourself to blame for hiring her.” She was right. As usual. Sabrina had a nobullshit way of putting things in perspective. Giving it to him straight, no chaser had been her modus operandi since the day they met. Growing up, they’d lived across the street from each other. It was hard to believe the girl next door grew up into the woman he was talking with now. Bryer encountered her at Votives fifteen years after he’d left their old neighborhood. She’d come into 8
Milana Howard his bar to apply for the assistant manager position he’d advertised. Despite the years, he’d recognized her immediately. She was his first love. Concentrating was an immense challenge when Bryer interviewed Sabrina. Her presence left him at a loss for words. Seeing her again brought back a flood of memories, memories of their first kiss and the times he couldn’t sleep because he was wondering if she was thinking about him. He never thought he’d get a chance to have her back in his life after so many years. Hiring her on the spot seemed the most natural thing to do. Sabrina made his open-to-close shifts more enjoyable than if the day had been spent without her. Her schedule was committed to his memory. As an interior design student at the local art institute she had little time to socialize, a fact Sabrina had made abundantly clear. She’d spent unhappy years in retail management and was now pursuing her passion with a singular focus. Bryer was always pleasantly surprised when she spent a few extra minutes shooting the shit with him, as she did now. “What’re your plans for the night?” He watched her as she filed away the closing reports.
9
Sabrina’s Song “I thought I’d order Chinese food and watch some trashy reality TV. Alex is out of town, so I have the place all to myself.” Alex was Sabrina’s douchebag, oftentimes longdistance boyfriend. It was entirely possible that he wasn’t a douchebag, but his mere existence made him such. Bryer considered it irony at its best that Sabrina would reenter his life while in a relationship with a guy who resembled Ricky Martin. He didn’t want to get in the way of her happiness; he just thought she’d be happier with him. “Sounds great.” Bryer’s tone was flat and had a slight trace of the bitterness which manifested whenever Sabrina mentioned Alex. To soothe himself, he watched her bend over to put her nametag in a drawer under the register. Her plump, round ass put him into a momentary yet satisfying stupor. “Well…have a good night.” She grabbed her handbag and walked out the door with a sway of her hips. “Yeah, good night,” Bryer mumbled quietly to himself. Yup, it would be a good night. A good night of some good old-fashioned jerking off while watching some good old-fashioned porn. Too bad the busty, pouty-lipped porn stars were only a sad substitute for
10
Milana Howard the triple X-rated action he imagined having with Sabrina. He was thankful the waist apron he wore while bartending hid just how badly he wanted her. Bryer could barely maintain professionalism in their working environment. Over time, he’d developed a torturous habit of checking out Sabrina when she wasn’t looking. Sometimes it seemed like she knew what he was up to by the markedly flirty strut in her steps. She’d flash a smile and walk by him as if she wasn’t the least bit aware of her feminine power. After a year of working with Sabrina, Bryer continued to be fascinated by her features. Sabrina’s smooth skin was a luscious mocha shade that appeared to be lit from within. Deep mahogany, tightly crimped curls cascaded around her shoulders. For work she often wore her hair up in a bun. Although it was a conservative style, it made him picture her as a naughty geisha. Her almond-shaped hazel eyes added to the effect. And then there was Sabrina’s mouth-watering fragrance that always managed to throw him off kilter. She smelled like the sensual sweetness of nightblooming jasmine. He was fixated on finding out whether the tantalizing scent lingered over all her hidden areas. 11
Sabrina’s Song Often he tried to put together a mental picture of exactly what was underneath her clothes. At one point in time, he was well acquainted with all of Sabrina’s splendid dips and curves, not that he did much except ogle their majestic qualities. All that was before she’d fully developed into her womanly figure. Now there was a new, mysterious aspect to the adult version of Sabrina. He wondered about the shade of her nipples and if she kept herself smoothly shaven, or if she left a thin trail of hair to lead to her tastiest parts. Sabrina consumed his senses entirely, frequently causing him to lose his train of thought when she was around. “I’m so sorry about the broken glasses.” “What? Oh. Yeah, don’t worry about it.” Tara’s apology caught Bryer off-guard. He hadn’t seen or heard her until she was directly in front of him. “Really?” She bit down on her bottom lip. “Thanks. I know I’ve messed up a lot here, but I’m really trying.” He chuckled. Being reminded of Sabrina’s words only made him wish he had the privilege of sharing takeout and TV with her. “What’s so funny?” Tara’s expression registered complete confusion. “Nothing. It’s time to go. Do me a favor and let everybody know we’re getting out of here.” 12
Milana Howard “Sure…and Bryer?” “Yeah?” “Thanks for being so understanding.” Tara placed her hand on his shoulder, slowly rubbing and squeezing it with the clear implication that she was willing to do more to show her gratitude. “Don’t mention it.” Even though he knew he could’ve had Tara in his bed that night, it made no difference to him. She was nothing compared to Sabrina.
13
Chapter Two Driving home, Sabrina was determined to shake the electricity that sparked between her and Bryer. Although she’d been going with Alex for six months, it didn’t make her impervious to the chemistry she’d just experienced. And as much as she didn’t want to admit it, she did have something very personal against Tara. The clumsy cocktail waitress gave clear signals that she’d set her sights on their boss. Sabrina was starting to believe the chick wasn’t as accident-prone as she put on. Every time Tara made an overly meticulous show of cleaning up her messes, it came off as a contrived excuse to put her ass in the air. Sabrina refused to compete with her for Bryer’s attention. And why should she? Her relationship with Alex was ripe with possibilities, even though she rarely got to spend time with him. As a regional sales director for a popular fitness club, he was always traveling from Las Vegas to Los Angeles to Phoenix to…wherever. What mattered was that he always took the time to text her an “I miss you” or call with an “I wish you were here.” It wasn’t his fault sentimental words didn’t fill the emptiness of so many nights spent alone. 14
Milana Howard With a twinge of guilt, Sabrina remembered Bryer’s lingering glances. His blue eyes roved over her much like they did when they were younger. Only now the puppy-dog look had transformed into something much more mature and masculine and…dangerously sexy. When Sabrina unlocked the door to her apartment, she realized how easily she could imagine Bryer there with her. She glanced around the quiet space of the living room. After setting down her bag, she began her usual routine of changing into her comfortable cotton pajamas and relaxing with a glass of wine. She sat on the couch with her Beaujolais, reminiscing about the first time she saw Bryer at Votives. It took a moment to relate the image of the over six feet tall, rock-solid man to the gangly, slouching boy who gave her a very awkward but sweet first kiss. Maybe milk really did do a body good. With his broad shoulders and large hands, the grown-up Bryer looked like he’d know exactly how to handle her. Absorbed by the idea of him, she imagined that he was sitting beside her. Bryer’s soulful blue eyes would smolder with that fiery intensity that to this day still drove her crazy. In that adorable way of his, he’d run his hands through his thick, dark brown hair, 15
Sabrina’s Song disheveled from a long day at work. He’d take her in his sinewy arms and finally reveal how badly he wanted her, how much he’d always wanted her. The idea of it all made her laugh. It was a ridiculous fantasy, made especially ludicrous considering she was in a relationship and should no longer be playing out what-ifs and imaginary scenarios. Sure, she and Bryer shared a past, but interpreting their status quo as something more meaningful was taking it a step too far. Life moves on, and her life moved her on to a man named Alex. She grabbed the remote and flicked through the channels. Nothing looked appealing. Finally, she settled on a Family Feud rerun. The game show had certainly gotten racier over the years—a final round answer included “penis.” After watching an hour’s worth of mindless entertainment, she started to nod off to sleep. The sudden jarring sound of her cell phone ringing snapped her awake. Sabrina answered it with a groggily uttered “hello.” “Hey girl!” “Amara, what’re you doing up so late?” “Your birthday is coming up!” “And?” “And we should be making plans for a celebration.” 16
Milana Howard “At one o’clock in the morning?” “My baby sister is turning thirty. It’s a big deal! Thirty is a milestone. We must do it up this year.” “If you say so.” “Come on! How can you not be excited?” “Because meeting the demise of my twenties doesn’t exactly make me want to turn cartwheels.” “I disagree.” “Of course you would. You’d use any reason to throw a party.” Her sister was an event planner slash boutique owner whose love of her work often spilled over into her personal life. “Maybe, but that new Cuban restaurant at Sunset Plaza has the most gorgeous outdoor space. I’ll rent it out for your night. We can have an intimate gathering. Just friends and family.” “I guess.” “Think about it, I mean seriously think about it, and give me a call once you’ve come to your senses.” “You mean when I give in to your demands.” Sabrina was accustomed to her older sister bulldozing over any objections if it meant getting her way. Amara cackled maniacally before hanging up. Noticing that her glass was nearly empty, Sabrina decided it was time for a refill. She’d just gotten her hands on the bottle when her phone rang 17
Sabrina’s Song again. It was most likely her sister calling back with some over-the-top idea she was compelled to tell her about. She reached the phone just in time to catch the call before it went to voice mail. The number on the screen made her smile. “Hola, morena!” “Alex! You don’t know how much I miss you. I was just about to go to bed. It’s so good to hear your voice.” “Same here. I just wanted to let you know that it looks like this trip is running longer than originally planned.” “Oh. Well, you know my birthday’s coming up. Amara wants to throw a party for me. You’ll be back by then, right?” “Of course, mi amor. Wouldn’t miss it. Anyway, I’ve got an early flight to catch, so I’ll talk to you later this week.” “Okay. Get some sleep. I love you.” “Te amo.” When Sabrina heard Alex’s gravelly, accented voice saying “I love you,” she knew that all was right in her world. She had all she needed with the man who made it to her present. With a flick of her wrist on the remote, she turned off the TV, sauntered to the kitchen to put her glass in the sink, and went to bed. 18
Milana Howard She’d just drifted away from consciousness when her cell phone’s vibration rattled against the nightstand. Half asleep, she groped around in the dark for the source of the annoying sound. When she answered her phone, Sabrina wasn’t sure if she was dreaming. “How’s the beef and broccoli?” The sound of Bryer’s voice made her instantly wide awake. He rarely called her outside of workrelated issues. And though it shouldn’t affect her, it warmed her heart to know that he remembered her favorite takeout dish. “I haven’t ordered any, and probably won’t since it’s so late.” “That’s too bad. Want some company?” “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” She glanced at the other side of the bed, noticing how empty it looked. The sheets and pillows were undisturbed. “Why? Afraid something unseemly would happen?” He laughed. Did he have ESP or something? “No…it’s just—” “I’ll be good.” She could definitely believe that. However, he was crossing the line of her unspoken rule. Flirting at work was one thing, but if he came over, who knows. All hell could break loose. “Are you there?” 19
Sabrina’s Song Shit. Thinking about how good Bryer could be led to a noticeable silence on her part. She had to stop doing this. “Yeah. Actually, I’m really tired. I must’ve fallen asleep for a second. See you at work tomorrow night.” “All right then. Good night, Sabrina.”
20
Chapter Three Bryer yanked open the fridge, grabbed a beer, and swallowed half of it. He sat with his guitar and played notes that echoed his frustration. Music had always been an outlet for the emotions he couldn’t express. The current emotion being epic fail. Knowing that he’d screwed up with Sabrina irritated the hell out of him. Even though their “just friends” status was a thorn in his side, he’d rather have her friendship than nothing at all. Bryer tried his damnedest to get used to the idea of her with someone else. He thought he’d eventually be okay with it, but hearing her say Alex’s name tonight pushed him over the edge. It wasn’t that he hadn’t heard the Latin Lothario’s name before; it was the tender way she’d said it tonight that drove him insane. Bryer could remember when she used to say his name like that. Years ago, when they used to have to beg their parents’ permission to stay out longer on school nights, Sabrina would look into his eyes and say his name in a soft, sweet tone that sent shivers through his body. He remembered when they’d first confessed their love for each other. To his embarrassment, the 21
Sabrina’s Song words tumbled out of his mouth first. They’d been at his house studying for mid-term exams when he found himself observing Sabrina’s profile as she flipped through a textbook. She was always a better student than he was, and the fact that she’d cared to tutor him moved him to admit what he’d been feeling. “So now I think we should go over the quizzes. You know how Miss Benson said that quiz questions give a good idea of what to expect. Bryer, why are you looking at me like that?” “I love you, Sabrina.” “What?” “I do. I mean it.” “I love you too, Bryer.” He remembered how his heart thumped in his chest when she said it. Nothing meant more to him than knowing she felt the same way. They spent months together, which were equivalent to years in teenage time, when out of the blue his universe was turned upside down. His parents had gone on a road trip to La Jolla for Fourth of July weekend to celebrate their anniversary. It was where his father proposed to his mother while watching the fireworks. On their way home, they were tragically killed by a drunk driver.
22
Milana Howard Before the start of sophomore year, Bryer had to move to his aunt’s house across town. He’d been so overwhelmed with grief that he found himself pushing Sabrina away. On the day of his move, they had an argument that led to their break-up. Later that night, once he got settled in his new bedroom, he pulled out the guitar his parents bought for his birthday and wrote Sabrina a song. It was going to be his way of apologizing, but he never worked up the nerve to go through with it. When Bryer moved into his current home, he found the timeworn sheet of notebook paper that contained all his unsung raw emotions. He’d read the lyrics and laughed at how sappy his younger self sounded. Now here he was, suffering the consequences of never telling Sabrina how he felt. After guzzling the last of his beer, Bryer happened to notice the ungodly hour glowing at him from the LCD stove clock. It was definitely time to end this trip down memory lane.
23
Chapter Four The next few days of working with Bryer were awkward. It seemed all they did was avoid each other. Sabrina would be checking in with a group of diners, see him across the room, and after locking eyes, they’d both look away. It’d gone on for a while, but one night Sabrina decided she’d had enough ducking and dodging. Bryer must’ve sensed she wanted to talk because at closing he sent everyone else home earlier than usual. She’d finally get him alone to straighten things out. They sat at the bar that was normally crowded with patrons, each of them enjoying an after-work cocktail. She was surprised when he initiated conversation. “I know what this is about, Sabrina.” He’d been looking straight ahead but suddenly focused his gaze on her. “I’m sorry for suggesting that I come over the other night. I was out of line. It’s just so weird sometimes.” “What do you mean?” “Even after all these years, I still feel it. When I look at you…it’s like no time passed.”
24
Milana Howard Not sure how to respond, Sabrina found herself staring at Bryer’s lips, wondering how they would feel if they were to kiss again. Where would his hands touch her now that they were old enough to do all the things they’d only talked about doing? To stop herself from saying something she might regret, she navigated the subject carefully. “Well, you did know me through at least twenty different hairstyles. We have history. How could I ever forget the person who gave me my first heartbreak?” At that moment, Bryer’s eyes flashed an emotion that Sabrina couldn’t define. She continued, “I’m just glad that I got to see you all grown-up. Speaking of growing up, Amara’s planning this huge birthday bash for me. Hopefully, I’ll see you there?” There was a long, weighty pause before he replied. “I’m pretty sure I could swing that.” Just then, Bryer got up from his barstool and turned on the jukebox. “But for now…would you dance with me?” “I don’t know.” “Just one innocent dance.” “I’m not sure there’s anything innocent about you anymore.” Sabrina couldn’t say she wasn’t tempted, but the idea of being that close to Bryer seemed a risky prospect.
25
Sabrina’s Song “Come on. For nostalgia’s sake. Remember how we used to go to those cheesy school dances?” When his selection began to play, Sabrina immediately recognized the song. It was Marvin Gaye singing the praises of getting it on. The song brought back memories because Bryer had performed a charmingly out-of-tune acoustic rendition of it on his guitar for her when they were dating. “You’ve gotta be kidding me right now. Are you serious?” She cracked up with laughter. “Sure. Why not? Unless you’re afraid you can’t keep up.” Bryer teased her with a playful smirk. “Ha!” “Come on, then.” Bryer grabbed her hand and brought her over to the club’s small dance floor. He’d always had rhythm, and the way he moved was turning her on. He held her close to him as they swayed to the music. She experienced the guilty pleasure of his strong hands holding her waist. With that simple touch, Sabrina was instantly transported to the familiar intimacy they’d once shared. Bryer lifted her chin and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. “I wonder if he even knows how lucky he is to be the one that kisses you.” Bryer’s voice was like a silken caress. “Does he know how you practically melt when 26
Milana Howard your neck is nibbled?” He whispered the words seductively into her ear, making her lose all rational thought. She found she was holding on to him way more than she should be. Then he held her even tighter right before letting her go. Completely lost in the feel of him, Sabrina didn’t even notice when the song ended. “It’s getting late,” Bryer said softly. “I’ll walk you to your car.” “What do I do in this situation?” Bryer asked. After coming so close to paradise only to be catapulted back to earth by reality, Bryer called Jake Bartlett, his friend and business partner. He had to get this shit off his chest. “You grow a pair and find yourself a hot piece of ass to get Sabrina out of your system.” Jake could always be counted upon to dispense his own unique pearls of wisdom. “Fucking isn’t always the solution to a problem.” “It works for me. Or let me guess, you need a hug, some ice cream, and a chick flick fest? Sorry dude, but Oprah I’m not.” “She’s just…I don’t think there’s going to be another woman who can do to me what she does. Fuck, man. It’s complicated.” 27
Sabrina’s Song “Look, we live in a twenty-four-hour city that’s running rampant with hot chicks. Pussy is an abundant resource, and here you are stressing about one particular female. What for? Do you know how confining it is to be hemmed up by one woman? Like Shawshank, but worse.” Jake was a serial dater, a pick-up artist who could literally charm the pants off a woman and then duck out before the sheets had a chance to cool. If it wasn’t for his keen eye for industry trends and financial acumen, Bryer would’ve written him off as a jackass. As it was, he’d come to accept that he and Jake simply had a very dissimilar stance on women. “That’s the thing. I don’t think it would be like that with Sabrina.” “I don’t know what to tell you, dude. But when Ricky Martin comes back into town, you’re gonna have to face the fact that she’ll be with him and you’ll just be left drooling over some chick you once dated. I’m trying to save you your dignity, man. Which brings us back to why you should get it in with another chick so that you’re not so pathetic, just saying. Take it or leave it. That’s all I got.” “All right, man. Later.” Bryer knew he wouldn’t be taking Jake’s advice, but the conversation did lighten his mood. 28
Chapter Five On the morning of her birthday, Sabrina woke up expecting to feel somehow different. At least thirty didn’t look any older than twenty-nine. She inspected her reflection in her bathroom’s vanity mirror. Lifting her cheeks in her palms and letting them go, she marveled at her skin’s youthful elasticity. After scanning her scalp, she breathed a sigh of relief. There. That confirmed it. Thirty was the new twenty. Not one single wrinkle or gray hair magically manifested overnight. She stepped into the shower, letting the warm water wash away worries and doubts about her past, present, and future. Suddenly those doubts included Bryer. How could it be possible that a so-called innocent dance could make her so confused about how she felt about Alex? By the time Sabrina turned off the nozzle and grabbed a towel, she thought she’d gained some clarity. After being alone so much, she’d simply become starved for male attention, and she’d found a very inappropriate outlet for her frustration in Bryer. Yeah, that was it. She decided to brush off all those
29
Sabrina’s Song bittersweet memories of teenage love and focus her energy on a future with Alex. Sabrina recalled how he came into her life. Determined to stick with her New Year’s resolutions, she’d signed herself up for a gym membership. It was during her first workout that she’d met Alex. After stretching, she’d started out on an elliptical machine. Sabrina was in her zone. The upbeat music that was playing made the vibe more like a night club than a fitness club. She noticed the man working out next to her. When they made eye contact, her body went from worn out to do-me-now. From the moment Alex said “hello,” Sabrina knew she was interested. “Do you come here often sounds corny, so I’ll cut to the chase. Would you like to meet up for coffee after this?” He flashed dimples when he smiled. “Thanks for sparing me that line, and…I’ll think about it.” “So you know who to call once you decide.” Alex handed her his business card. “You work here?” Her eyes scanned the card, taking in the name and logo of the gym. “Not exactly here. I go between this location and a few others.”
30
Milana Howard “Nice. I see you take advantage of company perks.” Alex’s biceps made the fabric of his t-shirt taut, and his legs appeared as thick as tree trunks. “Definitely. As much as I’d like to slack off sometimes, I can’t represent a gym and not work out. So what time works for you?” “I never said I was going.” “I’m optimistic.” They’d met up for coffee that day. Coffee soon led to lunch. Lunch led to dinner dates where they enjoyed each other’s company so much they were often the last to leave the restaurant. A month went by, and then another. Everything was great except that they could only see each other between Alex’s trips. He kept in touch, but lately Sabrina desired more than digital communication. Especially since she hadn’t been laid in at least a month and counting. The last time Alex had been in town, he’d said he was too tired. Before that instance, Sabrina had cramps from hell and sex was the last thing on her mind. She was combing leave-in conditioner through her damp curls when the phone rang on top of a hamper that was stuffed to the rim with clothes. Sabrina mentally added “not procrastinating” to her list of positive changes to work toward. Since she was 31
Sabrina’s Song running out of time to get ready for her first class, she put the phone on speaker so she could finish her hair. “Hello, may I speak to Miss Sabrina Foster?” “This is she.” “Miss Foster, this is Pamela Bennett from the career placement office at the Art Institute. We would like to offer our congratulations. At a recent open house, your sample project caught the attention of an executive from the Parker Jennings Design Group of Los Angeles.” Sabrina was struggling with detangling a stubborn cluster of knots at the nape of her neck when Pamela’s words sank in. Parker Jennings was one of the most innovative interior design firms, specializing in both high-end private residences and commercial properties. Their work was consistently in demand, especially since they were known for having celebrity clientele. Her heart began to beat faster. “Their representative would like to meet with you to discuss the details of a possible internship. If you’re interested in working for the company and willing to relocate, they would love to hear from you.” She gasped. The comb flew out of her hands. Deafening shrieks bounced and echoed off the tiled walls. Her reaction must’ve been amusing because she
32
Milana Howard heard laughter in Pamela’s voice as she asked, “I take it that’s a ‘yes’?” Sabrina cleared her throat and pulled herself together. “Yes! Thank you!” “No need to thank me. You’ve earned it. Give us a call here at the office with the best time to arrange the meeting. We’ll be glad to set up for you.” Immediately after receiving the news, Sabrina knew she had to share it. She called Amara who had just as much of a reaction as she did. Next, she wanted to tell Alex. He answered in a weary tone. There wasn’t the usual exuberant greeting with his affectionate nickname for her. All the traveling must’ve been getting to him. “Babe, I’ve got good news. I—” “Sabrina, I hate to have to tell you this, but I’ve met someone.” Suddenly, Sabrina’s equilibrium was thrown off. She slumped down to the cold bathroom tiles, feeling a sinking sensation in the pit of her stomach that made her nauseous. “What?” “Yeah, I mean…I really didn’t want to tell you over the phone.” “When were you going to tell me?”
33
Sabrina’s Song “When I got back to Vegas. I was thinking that if things don’t work out with me and her, we could, you know, still have a sort of open door policy.” “You mean you want to still fuck when it’s convenient for you. Hell no. It’s over.” She hung up. Right after Sabrina disconnected, the screen lit up with Alex’s number. She rejected the call and sent the phone spinning across the floor. “So now we have two reasons to celebrate,” Amara announced as she lifted her margarita in the air. “Not only is my fabulous, slightly younger sister turning the big three-O,” she said with a wink at Sabrina, “but she’s also landed herself a wonderful opportunity at a prestigious L.A. design firm.” Amara walked over to her and put an arm around her shoulders. “We’re all so proud of you.” She glanced around the crowd seated at the banquet-style table and raised her glass again. “Here’s to Sabrina.” Hearing her sister say such kind words overwhelmed Sabrina with emotion. Her happiness overpowered the hurt she’d felt earlier. Before she left her place, she’d made up her mind—no matter what, she refused to allow Alex the power of ruining her night. She was surrounded by friends and family who
34
Milana Howard loved her and had gathered for her festivities on La Habana’s second floor terrace to celebrate. Strands of delicate white lights adorned the colorful columns of the restaurant’s exterior. A subtle breeze stirred the leaves of palm tree plants that sat in terracotta pots at the corners of the rectangular balcony. Sabrina found herself swaying in her chair to the rhythmic sounds of salsa music that carried out into the night air. Couples joined hands and went to the dance floor to bust a move. It was fun to watch her friends and family attempting to do Latin-style dance steps, no matter how adept or clumsy they were. One of the couples stopped to talk with her. “Happy birthday! You look beautiful tonight. I’m surprised Amara didn’t nab me up to do a radio spot for your party.” It was her cousin Stacey, a deejay and talk show host for a local Las Vegas station. She was accompanied by her fiancé, Cooper. He stood beside her with one hand on Stacey’s hip and the other holding a Cuban cigar. “Congratulations, Sabrina.” “Thank you both. I hope you’re enjoying yourselves. Now go out there, Stacey, and show Cooper how it’s done!” They all shared a laugh. She watched the handsome couple walk toward the dance floor. Even if her heart was broken, she wouldn’t begrudge her cousin’s happiness. 35
Sabrina’s Song “Why aren’t you out there, missy? All of this fabulousness is for you.” Amara sat in the chair beside her as she handed her a coconut mojito. “And where the hell is Alex? Did his flight get delayed or something?” Sabrina studied the mint leaves swirling around in her glass before taking a sip of the cocktail. “Alex…isn’t coming.” Despite her resolve not to cry, tears formed in her eyes. “He said he met someone else.” “He what?” Her sister’s eyes widened and she appeared to be breathing out steam. “Amara, I’ll get over it, really.” Sabrina shrugged dismissively. “I’m just not in the party mood, you know. I shouldn’t let it bother me, but seeing folks pair up and share their little private moments doesn’t make it easy.” “Girl, been there, done that. I’ve seen it from all sides—single, married, whatever. None of that matters. All that matters is that you’re happy. If watching everybody else have a good time at your party is bumming you out…well…I can easily tell ’em all a tiny little fib like…you had an upset stomach and went home to lie down.” “Really?”
36
Milana Howard “Really. I’ll make sure to save you some of your cake. Later on when you eat a piece, you’ll feel right as rain. This too shall pass.” “Oh, Amara, thank you.” Sabrina kissed her sister’s cheek, pushed back in her chair, and reached for her purse. “Before you go, Bryer called for you.” Her sister reached for the platter between them and picked up a piece of caramelized plantain to nibble on. “What? He did?” “Yes. He must’ve gotten my number from the invitation I e-mailed. Anyway, he said he’d tried calling you, but it kept going to voice mail.” Her phone. It’d probably sustained some damage from its journey across her bathroom. “What else did he say?” “He said he was very sorry, but he wouldn’t be able to make it.” “Oh.” “Is there something you’re not telling me, Sabrina?” Amara’s eyes narrowed at her sister. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” She averted her eyes, realizing her sister’s uncanny ability to read her. “You do! I saw how your eyes lit up when we went over the guest list. I read ‘Bryer Gaudet’ and your 37
Sabrina’s Song mood changed immediately. You got all giddy, laughing and smiling. I thought it was because you were looking forward to your party, but clearly there’s something else going on here.” “Possibly.” She fiddled with a strand of her hair and looked away to avoid her sister’s scrutiny. “See! My point exactly. When I asked if Alex could make it, you didn’t seem nearly as excited. I had a feeling something might be wrong. FYI, Chance has told me on many occasions how Bryer always brings up how amazing you are. But of course, it’s none of my business.” Amara smirked and shrugged. She’d been dating Bryer’s friend since they met a few months ago. “None of your business? Yeah right!” Sabrina picked up the napkin from her lap and playfully flung it at Amara. “Well, you’re my little sister, and not much slips past me. Now go home and chill out. I’ll handle things from here.”
38
Chapter Six Bryer sat on the edge of his bed with the suit he planned to wear to Sabrina’s party laid out beside him. He’d been sitting there trying to decide whether or not he should even go. Of course he wanted to be there for her, but he didn’t want to go and see her in another man’s arms. His watch showed that it was after eleven. Sabrina’s party had been going on for two hours. Fuck the bullshit. Bottom line was that he’d disappointed her before, and he damn sure didn’t want to do it again. Suddenly, time was of the essence. He prayed she would forgive him for being late. Driving at the top of the speed limit, Bryer arrived at La Habana’s parking lot. He checked in with the doorman to be directed upstairs. Scanning the crowded space, he searched for Sabrina. No luck. He stood outside on the terrace still hoping that she might be there. Then, coming from the direction of the restrooms, he spotted her sister, Amara, walking towards him. “Bryer, hi. I hate to break it to you, but Sabrina left and went home half an hour ago.” “Is she okay?”
39
Sabrina’s Song “Yeah. I think she is…or she will be. I mean…would you mind doing me a huge favor?” “Sure.” “See, since Sabrina left, I’m sort of the honorary hostess for the rest of the night. I really can’t get away until the party’s completely over. So would you mind dropping this off at her place? I sort of promised it to her.” She handed him a Styrofoam box. “No problem. I’ll get it to her now.” “Thanks a billion!” Amara smiled and walked away. Bryer made it down the stairs as fast as he could. He got back into his car and drove to Sabrina’s apartment. With the box that Amara gave him, he knocked on her door.
40
Chapter Seven “Bryer?” When Sabrina peered through the peephole, his was the last face she expected to see. Suddenly, she was self-conscious that she hadn’t bothered to keep her bra on under the oversized t-shirt she’d changed into when she got home. “I’m sorry I was late and didn’t get to see you at your party.” Bryer appeared sincerely repentant standing in her doorframe as he presented her with a box. “Your sister asked me to give this to you.” “Thanks.” She took it from his hands and lifted the lid. Two slices of très leches cake. Sabrina shook her head and smiled. Darn Amara and her wise old owl ways. “Have a good night.” He turned back towards the steps. “Wait. Don’t you want to come in?” Bryer looked at her quizzically. “Are you and your man into some freaky shit?” “No, no, no,” she giggled. “Alex isn’t here.” Bryer came in, and Sabrina gestured for him to follow her to the couch. He sat beside her and turned so that he was facing her. “You might as well know now. An
41
Sabrina’s Song opportunity has presented itself and if all goes well, I’ll be moving to Los Angeles after graduation.” “That’s…wow.” “Yeah, I’m looking forward to a fresh start. I thought you should know since you’ll have to replace me at the bar.” “So then you and Alex─” “There’s no more me and Alex.” The needle on the record skipped. “What happened?” “I thought things were going good, you know, like he and I had potential. But even though we’d been dating for six months, we’ve only spent half that time together since he travels so much. Anyway, today he told me that he met someone else.” Cocksucker douchebag motherfucker. Bryer was torn between the impetus to find La Vida Loca and pummel his punk ass into a bloody pulp and making Sabrina realize she should be his. When he saw her melancholic expression, he went with the latter. He reached for Sabrina’s hand and held it in his, stroking over her fingers with his much larger ones. “I know you must be hurting, and right now could be horrible timing, but there’s something I have to tell 42
Milana Howard you. The way I feel about you, Sabrina, it’s like how it used to be, but so much more. There’s something going on here, and I think you feel it too.” “I do,” she admitted softly. “I should’ve known there was something missing with Alex. He couldn’t measure up to you.” That was all he needed to hear. Bryer caressed the side of her face, gliding his hand under her chin to prop it up so he could look at her. His thumb traced over her soft, full lips. “Now that you know how I feel about you, you have to understand that I can’t be without you.” If he didn’t kiss her now he’d never forgive himself. He pressed his lips to hers, melding their mouths. His tongue slid through her lips, twisting and twirling to explore her mouth. Sabrina matched his moves, driving him crazy when she sucked and bit at his lips. The kiss wasn’t enough. Pressing his chest against hers, he carefully backed her down onto the sofa pillows. He took her hands in his and brought her arms above her head, gently pinning her wrists to the arm of the couch. One hand stayed there to keep her in the position while the other ran down her arm, continuing lower to caress over her ribs and across her thighs. His fingers met the bottom hem of her t-shirt. 43
Sabrina’s Song He slid his hand under the thin cotton material, feeling how warm her body was when he splayed his hand over her stomach. His hand traveled up further to cup her breast. With a feather-light touch, he brushed his fingertips against the side of it, using his thumb to flick over her nipple. Bryer looked up to see Sabrina’s eyes halfclosed, the movement of her chest rising and falling becoming more pronounced as her breath quickened. A slow smile formed on her lips. He leaned away from her to pull his shirt up over his head. All he wanted was to feel her skin against his with no barriers. Sabrina must’ve read his mind because she sat up to remove her t-shirt. Bryer wrapped his arms around her and rubbed up and down her back. He leaned in to nip at her earlobe. The scent and taste of her skin dazed his comprehension, but he was aware of feeling Sabrina’s hand at the fly of his pants. She unzipped him. The tented front of his boxers revealed his arousal. Bryer took his hand, reached into the slit front panel of his boxers, and pulled his dick out to show Sabrina how much she turned him on. He took her hands and wrapped them around his nine inches of hardness. “Is this what you want?” “Yes, Bryer.” She whispered again, “Yes.” 44
Milana Howard Again, Sabrina told him all he needed to hear. His instincts took over. Bryer had to make love to her. Now. After getting up from the couch, he knelt in front of her. He put his hands at the sides of her waist and grabbed the band of her panties. Bryer slid them down and pulled them away from her ankles. His hands grasped hold of her feet and brought them apart to spread open her legs. He planted a trail of kisses up to the velvet soft skin of her inner thighs. Scooping her legs up, he bracketed his arms so that the bend of her knees sat cradled in the crook of his elbows. Bryer cherished the moment when he finally dipped his tongue to taste her. Her pussy was so wet he had to concentrate on giving her all the pleasure he wanted her to feel. With the flat surface of his tongue, he licked her slit from top to bottom in long, slow strokes. Sabrina’s hands went to his head, grabbing handfuls of his hair as she held his face to her pussy. The sound of her lusty moans gave him the ultimate satisfaction. “Bryer…Bryer…please…can we—” The meaning of Sabrina’s sexy whispers was not lost on him. Hearing her ask for what he would’ve gladly given to her all day, every day, and seven days a
45
Sabrina’s Song week, pushed him over the edge. Bryer stood, shoving his pants and boxers off in one motion. Returning to her on the couch, he slid his hand up her body, from her belly button to the space between her breasts. He reached up to caress her collarbone, his other hand at the nape of her neck bringing her head forward so that he could kiss her again. At the same time Bryer slid his tongue into her mouth, he entered Sabrina’s satin heat with his cock. She immediately gasped, her throat arching up to him as her head tilted back. He licked and nibbled at the exposed skin of her neck as he rhythmically thrust in and out of her. When Sabrina folded him in her arms, her body so responsive to his, Bryer felt complete. She panted out his name over and over again. He knew she was close to climax by the clenching feel of her pussy. There was a series of hot, erratic squeezes from within her that coerced an equal response from his body. Sabrina’s orgasm would be the catalyst for his release. Bryer sighed her name as his dick spurted thick ropes of cum. Lazy moments passed as they lay together. Bryer shifted to his side to allow Sabrina a more comfortable
46
Milana Howard position. His fingers played with her hair. He admired the serene expression on her face. “Bryer?” “Yes?” His hands roamed her body, idly stroking all over. “What happens with us when I move to California?” When Sabrina asked the question, it pleased him to know she was considering their future. “Where you go, I go. I’ll give Jake the reins for Votives and make the commute when necessary. All of that can be worked out. What I care about is that I get to be with you.”
47
Epilogue “Wow. We’ve gotta figure out this closet situation.” Sabrina stood with her hands on her hips, glancing around at the bare shelves and racks in the walk-in. They’d finally moved all their things into the condo in downtown Los Angeles. Bryer had just finished organizing his shoes in a row along the wall. There was one odd shoebox on the top shelf that caught Sabrina’s attention. She pointed at it. “What’s in there?” “Nothing, Mrs. Gaudet.” He scooped up the box and started to walk away. “You’re hiding something.” She tickled him as he held the box above his head. He finally gave in when she found the weak point at his sides. “Okay, okay. Enough already. If you must know…” He opened the lid. “What is it?” Sabrina looked at him with curious anticipation. It was a box full of pictures and other miscellaneous mementoes. “You remember back in the day when we had that argument right before sophomore year?” Bryer rummaged through the various items and pulled out a folded square of paper. He handed it to her. 48
Milana Howard “Yes, I remember.” Sabrina opened the paper. Its worn creases made it appear to have been folded and unfolded many times. “Right after your parents passed and you were moving to your aunt’s house. I wanted to stay together, but you wanted to break up because…” She trailed off as she took in the sight of Bryer’s chicken scratch handwriting and started reading. “Because I thought since we’d be going to different schools, it wouldn’t make sense to stay together.” He let out a deep sigh. “I remember how once I got home I couldn’t stop thinking about us, about you, and I wish I could’ve taken back what I said. I stayed up that night looking at your picture. I wound up writing you a song.” “What? Are you serious?” Sabrina could hardly believe it, even though she was holding the proof of his words. “I am. I’ve kept it all these years. I never thought I’d get a chance to set things right with you and tell you what I meant to say then.” “Aw, Bryer, I wanna hear it. You have to sing it for me.” “Right now?” “Yes, right now.” Sabrina went over to his side of the bed and grabbed his guitar from where it leaned 49
Sabrina’s Song against the wall. She handed the instrument to him. “Ple-e-e-ase?” “Okay, okay. This isn’t fair ’cause you know I can’t resist you.” “Cool, so then I get my way.” She gave him a sly smirk as she wiggled her eyebrows up and down. “As usual.” Bryer grinned as he sat on the bed, setting the instrument across his lap. Sabrina waited as he positioned his fingers. He hummed as he began to play. I was feeling lonely Lying in my bed Dreaming of Sabrina Can’t get her out of my head Never meant to hurt her Could be I don’t deserve her no Oh Sabrina Oh Sabrina Please don’t go As Bryer played an instrumental break, he held her gaze. She was immediately pulled into an abyss of his dreamy baby blues. The endless vortex of his azure irises sucked her into their depths. His eyes were like a time machine zapping her back to the boy who sat next
50
Milana Howard to her at his parents’ kitchen table. He’d confessed, “I love you, Sabrina…I do. I mean it.” Bryer repeated those words at their wedding. Sabrina loved him now more than ever. The fact that he’d written a song for her was the cherry on top of the whipped cream on top of the super deluxe sundae known as her husband. She focused back to the present, to the loving man singing to her. If I see her smile I’ll be feeling fine Would go through Hell just to be with her Move Heaven and earth to make her mine I’ll tell her I need her Do anything to please her oh My Sabrina My Sabrina I love you so After the sounds of the last few notes faded, Bryer continued to look at her. “What do you think?” He chuckled. “I never made it as professional songwriter, so go easy on me.” His sweet song brought tears to her eyes. She’d never been serenaded. It took a few moments before she could answer. “I loved it. It was beautiful. Now 51
Sabrina’s Song kiss me like the first time.” As usual, Bryer couldn’t resist her.
Milana Thank you for reading. To read about other books in the Sin City Seductions series, check out: Taking a Gamble (Celicia and Kevin) A New Year’s Toast (Stacey and Cooper) A Lucky Chance (Amara and Chance)
52
Milana Howard Originally from the Jersey Shore, (the very same place that has spawned all those reality show people), Milana Howard now resides in fabulous Las Vegas. She has had a passion for romance stories ever since she learned how to read. Whenever a book left her wanting more, she would write her own personal spinoff story to satisfy her craving for the ending she envisioned. Currently, she is most comfortable writing in the contemporary interracial romance genre. In her spare time she enjoys classic romance films. Intrigued by the glamour of that by-gone era, she finds herself wondering why men can’t walk around in suits and ties and why women can’t dress as if going to a Hollywood premiere on a regular basis. Excited to have her books in a reader’s hands, Milana welcomes feedback!
[email protected] www.milanahoward.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/milanahoward#! www.twitter.com/#!/milanahoward
