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  She barely knew Avi, and she couldn’t just trust this instinct she had about him. The fact that everything inside her told her it was true didn’t make it real. Because she’d known Giorgio longer. Had believed he would always be there for her. But things had gone terribly wrong and she still suffered the pain of his betrayal.

  “Good morning,” Avi’s lips played along the back of her neck.

  She quivered at the delightful sensation. His arms tightened around her, making her feel even safer. She drew in a deep breath. It would be all right. She just had to remind herself that even though these feelings seemed real, she had to be cautious.

  She turned within his arms and stared into his smoky brown eyes. They were so welcoming and filled with warmth.

  “Hi,” she said. “I’m going to go take a shower now.”

  He smiled. “Okay.”

  But he cupped her head then leaned in and kissed her. His mouth moved on hers gently, coaxing a response. She couldn’t help herself. She melted against him, responding to his tenderness, her heart pounding.

  She wanted to wrap her hand around his cock, which she could feel swelling between their bodies, and pull it to her aching opening, then roll on top of him, taking it deep inside.

  He made her want him. To join with him. To be one with him.

  She pushed back the covers and hurried to the en suite.

  Avi finished reading his email on his phone, then set it down on the coffee table.

  Last night with Elle had been spectacular. She was sexy and fun to be with. She was uninhibited and comfortable with expressing what she wanted.

  But this morning, she’d withdrawn. Putting up shields against him.

  She said she didn’t want anything more than sex with him. He wished he understood the need she had to keep him at a distance, because he wanted more with her. He wanted to make a deeper connection.

  He would move slowly, giving her time to really get to know him, but he intended to convince her that they could have a deeper relationship. One that could last. He just had to find the key.

  Because he couldn’t imagine ever having enough of her.

  She walked down the stairs wearing the skirt and blouse she’d worn yesterday. The thought of the sexy black and red bra, and the panties with the little cutout in front that he knew she was wearing underneath made him want to sweep her into his arms right now and kiss her until she melted, then strip her clothes off and drag her back to his bed.

  But he knew she needed some distance right now. That’s why he’d decided not to fix her breakfast here.

  He stood up as she approached.

  “It’s such a beautiful day, I thought we could go for a walk to a nice little café not far from here and enjoy breakfast together.”

  “That sounds nice.”

  He took her hand and led her to the door. Moments later, they were on the elevator.

  No sooner had the doors closed and the elevator started to move, when it stopped again. The doors opened and Henri and Cairn stepped inside.

  “Morning, Avi,” Henri said. He smiled at Elle.

  To his total surprise, Avi noticed Elle’s cheeks flush.

  Both men wore shorts and tank tops, and Elle seemed to be avoiding looking at them.

  “Elle, this is Henri and Cairn. Guys, this is Elle.”

  “Hi, Elle.” Cairn held out his hand and Elle shook it.

  Avi could see the flush down her neck, disappearing under the blouse.

  “I’ve seen you in the squash courts a few times with Everly,” Henri said. “Do you live in the building?”

  “Oh… no. She and I are friends and she invites me to play with her sometimes.”

  “Are you going to play squash now?” Avi asked.

  “No, just going for a run this morning, before it gets too hot.”

  The elevator door opened and Cairn smiled at Elle. “I hope to see you again sometime. Maybe we can play a few games together.”

  Elle’s eyes widened.

  Avi realized she was attracted to the two men and the innuendo was too much for her.

  “Maybe the four of us can play next weekend,” Avi said.

  Her gaze shot to his, then her cheeks flamed hotter and she glanced away.

  “Sounds good,” Henri said. “Let me know when and I’ll book two courts for us.”

  As the two men walked away, Avi almost laughed as her gaze settled on their butts. Then she dragged it away and gazed at him again.

  “They seem nice.”

  Chapter 7

  Elle sat down in the chair Avi pulled out for her. The café was a charming place with round tables covered with white cloths, fresh flowers on every table, and stained glass light fixtures hanging overheard.

  She was still embarrassed about the elevator ride and coming face-to-face with the two men she’d been fantasizing about for months. Their shorts had shown off their muscular legs and the tank tops they’d worn had showcased their broad shoulders and bulging arms.

  She was sure her awkwardness had tipped off Avi that she found them attractive. But instead of getting jealous, it had actually seemed to amuse him. Especially when he caught her glancing at their enticing butts as they’d walked away.

  Not that Avi had anything to be jealous of. As good looking as they were, Avi outshone them in every way. Especially the way he made her feel. Her heart stammered anytime she got close to him. Or thought about him.

  And when he touched her…. Wow! Fireworks.

  A waitress brought menus and filled their coffee cups. She told them the specials and Avi recommended the house omelet and fresh fruit salad served with English cream.

  “You seemed a little freaked out this morning,” Avi said.

  “You mean… on the elevator?”

  He chuckled. “No. I mean we had a spectacular night together, but then this morning you couldn’t seem to get away from me fast enough.”

  “I’m sorry. It’s just… you know… the awkward morning after thing.”

  “Sure. I get it. But it’s important that you be comfortable with me. That you tell me if something is bothering you. Or if I do something wrong. Or even if you just want something to be different.”

  Her stomach clenched.

  “I told you, this isn’t that kind of relationship,” she said. “We’re not trying to get close, we’re just—”

  He waved his hand, “I know. It’s just about the sex. But in any kind of relationship it’s important to communicate. Especially in the kind of relationship we’re embarking on. We’re going to be trying new things. Pushing your limits. I need to know you can talk to me if you’re uncomfortable about anything.”

  “Okay. That makes sense.”

  “And I understand that this morning you might have had some confusing feelings. Feelings you wouldn’t want to express to me.”

  She frowned. “What are you saying? That you think I’m falling for you?”

  Oh, God, he saw too much.

  He laughed. “That would be great. But, no, what I’m talking about is that I think you expect to keep this on a business-like level, but you find that…” He grinned, totally disarming her. “Just maybe you like me. And you like spending time with me.”

  Her jaw dropped open.

  “And that’s okay,” he continued. “I’m a pretty likeable guy. It’s all right to have passionate, kinky sex with me and have fun doing it. You don’t have to take it all too seriously.”

  She drew in a deep breath.

  “You’re right. I’m trying to keep a distance between us and that will make things tense between us. I’ll try and relax.”

  “Good.”

  His lips turned up again and she realized she could get addicted to his smile

  “And, Avi. I do like you.”

  “Come on. I have something to show you.”

  Elle glanced up from her book to see Avi standing at the bottom of the stairway. After breakfast, they’d gone for a walk in the park, followed by some relaxing time
together in the penthouse, then Avi had excused himself and disappeared upstairs for about an hour..

  She put down her book and stood up.

  “What is it?” she asked.

  He walked toward her and took her hand, then led her up the stairs.

  “You’ll see.”

  He guided her to his bedroom. As soon as she walked in the double doors, she saw a royal blue, silky dress laid out on the bed. Beside it was a pair of shoes. Stunning shoes with rhinestone straps and stiletto heels.

  “What’s this about?” she asked.

  “I’m taking you out to dinner and a play this evening. Formal attire is appropriate.”

  She frowned. “Avi, we’re not dating. You don’t have to take me out to fancy places.”

  He stepped close behind her and slid his arms around her waist.

  “But I want to.”

  “Avi, this isn’t a romantic relationship.”

  Having his arms around her like this, though, and feeling his breath ruffle across her ear, made her feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

  “I know that, but you write erotic romance. I think working exciting sex into a romantic evening will be very helpful to you. Especially with a Domination/submission edge.”

  “So you’re planning to take me out and order me around in public?”

  He smiled and took her hand, then pressed his lips to her palm. Her stomach fluttered.

  “Sweetheart, the Domination can be much more subtle than that. Now be a good girl and get dressed.”

  A half hour later, she walked down the stairs to see Avi waiting for her. His eyes lit up as soon as he saw her, his heated gaze gliding down her body. She had to admit that the gown he’d chosen for her was very flattering. It was a wrap style, and the slinky fabric contoured to her body.

  The bra he’d also thoughtfully provided lifted her breasts to show a deep cleavage and the thong left no panty line.

  He took her hand as soon as she reached the bottom of the stairs.

  “You look beautiful.” He kissed the back of her hand.

  “Thank you. You look pretty awesome yourself.”

  In fact, he looked drop-dead gorgeous in his tuxedo with his dark, wavy hair neatly combed back and his face clean-shaven. The cut of the tux emphasized his broad shoulders and trim waist. And his spicy cologne made her want to step into his arms and nuzzle his neck.

  “So this evening, you will be my submissive. As I said, it will be a subtle play of control. You’ll simply do whatever I say without argument.”

  “And if I don’t want to?”

  “Are you rejecting the entire premise or do you mean specific demands?”

  “I mean if you tell me to do something I’m uncomfortable with.”

  “Elle, you choose. You can decide to stop at any time. But if you relax and trust me, then this evening will work out so much better. I suggest you let yourself push your limits tonight. That’s what makes the whole thing so exciting.”

  She bit her lip. “Okay.”

  “Good. Now, I have something else for you.”

  He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled something out. Something glittery dropped from his fingers and she realized he was holding a necklace. Rows of sparkling diamonds formed a band, and in the center was a large sapphire.

  “Let me put this on you.”

  “Avi, I don’t want you giving me expensive gifts. I only agreed to the dress and shoes because I don’t own anything formal. The necklace isn’t necessary.”

  “Let me put it another way. Turn around.”

  She’d just agreed to follow his commands. She drew in a deep breath and turned her back to him.

  His fingers brushed along her skin as he wrapped the necklace around her neck and fastened it. Her hair was swept up with a bejeweled clip he’d left on the dresser, so her neck was exposed. She ran her fingers along the bottom of the necklace, which was more like a collar around her neck.

  “Turn around and face me.”

  She turned and he smiled.

  “Very nice. Now what do you say.”

  “Thank you, Sir.”

  His smile broadened. “Very good. I think this evening is off to a good start.”

  He held up a beautiful royal blue shawl embroidered with glittering thread and a scattering of iridescent sequins that added a subtle shimmer. He wrapped it around her shoulders, then offered his arm. She curled her fingers around it, then he led her from the penthouse down to the lobby.

  At the front door, a long, black limousine was waiting for them. The chauffeur opened the passenger door and she and Avi settled into the luxurious leather seats.

  The restaurant was a short drive away. Once they arrived, the hostess led them to a cozy round booth in an intimate corner, the romantic feel enhanced by flowers and candlelight.

  “This place is lovely,” she said as she sat down.

  As Avi sat down beside her, she slipped off the shawl and set it down beside her. Avi slid his arm around her.

  “I think you’ll enjoy it. And I have something planned to make the evening even more… fun.”

  She raised an eyebrow. “Oh? And what’s that?”

  He leaned in close until his lips brushed her ear.

  “Ordering you to take off your panties.”

  Her eyes widened. “What? Here?”

  His lips brushed her temple, sending a thrill of sensations through her, then he smiled.

  “Yes.”

  “But—”

  ”No but’s, baby. You agreed to do whatever I said.”

  She stared into his deep brown eyes.

  “I didn’t think you’d expect…”

  “That I’d have you do something in public? But that’s half the fun.”

  Excitement trilled through her.

  “I… uh…”

  “Do it now.”

  His voice was low but firm. And filled with an authority she couldn’t resist.

  She pushed her hand under the side of the wrap skirt on the flowing gown and pulled it aside to give both her hands access, then hooked her thumbs under the elastic of her panties and pushed down. The tablecloth hid what she was doing, but she had to shift on the seat. She had the panties partway down her hips when the waiter returned with a bottle of wine.

  She froze.

  He opened the bottle then poured a little of the dark burgundy wine into a glass in front of Avi.

  Elle sat still, her cheeks flushed as Avi sipped the wine, then gave the waiter his approval. The waiter filled both their glasses and left.

  Her wide eyes turned to Avi.

  “Carry on,” he said.

  She bit her lip, then pushed her panties the rest of the way down her hips, then along her thighs. She lifted one foot out of them, then reached down as if picking a napkin up off the floor and plucked the panties off the other foot.

  Now she held her panties in her hand and she wasn’t quite sure what she was going to do with them. Avi had insisted she leave her purse in the limo and she had no pockets on this slinky dress.

  “Put them in my hand.” Avi’s hand lay open on the seat between them while he sipped his wine.

  She pressed the tiny garment into his palm and he closed his fingers around it. She watched as he slipped the lacy panties into his jacket pocket.

  “Sit with your legs wide. And open the skirt so you can feel the cool air on your pussy.”

  She bit her lip and gazed at him.

  “Don’t worry. The tablecloth will hide anyone’s view. It’s only you and me who’ll know your sweet little pussy is totally exposed.”

  She did as he said, widening her legs, then pulling the sides of the skirt open like curtains.

  Avi was right. The air felt cool on her heated flesh and that coolness kept her attention right there.

  The waiter took their orders and Avi chatted calmly to her over appetizers. She expected his hand to wander to her thigh, then maybe tease her exposed folds, but dinner arrived and he still hadn’t touched her.
He asked her about her week. Things like how work had gone and if she’d done anything interesting with friends. Distractedly, she answered his questions.

  After the waiter laid out their dinner and left, Avi’s hand slid down to the seat between them and her breath held. But he just picked up his linen napkin and rearranged it on his lap.

  Dinner became a blur as he kept her talking about mundane things. All she could think about was the cool air on her exposed flesh and the thought of his fingers gliding over it right here in the restaurant.

  Finally, dessert arrived. As she dipped her spoon into the chocolate mousse, Avi’s fingers brushed the side of her thigh and she sucked in a breath.

  “Are you all right?” Avi asked, a wicked gleam in his eyes.

  His fingers glided to her inner thigh and up toward her aching flesh.

  Then stopped.

  “You should finish up your mousse. We have to leave in a couple of minutes for the play.”

  His fingers hovered barely an inch from her slick folds and she desperately wanted him to glide the rest of the way and stroke her.

  Almost as much as she didn’t want him to.

  His hand slid away and she took her first bite of the chocolate. Delight rippled through her at the smooth, silky texture and exquisite flavor.

  Oh, God, he had her so needy she wondered if it might be possible to orgasm just from the taste of the delectable dessert.

  How had he brought her to such a place of deep yearning when he hadn’t even touched her all through dinner… except for that brief tease at the end?

  Avi paid the bill then picked up her shawl and wrapped it around her shoulders. The limousine was waiting for them outside.

  Once they arrived at the theater, Avi led her up the stairs to a box. The other seats in the box were empty, but there were people sitting in the boxes on either side of them. Avi took Elle’s shawl and they sat down. He placed the shawl on her lap. When she reached for it, intending to place it over the back of the seat, he took her hand in his, stopping her.

  She glanced at him and he smiled, a wicked gleam in his eyes.

  Soon the lights went down and the performance started. As the actors played their parts on the stage, Elle had trouble concentrating as Avi’s thumb stroked the back of her hand.