A Thin Line 93p6c

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This book is for sale to ADULT AUDIENCES ONLY. It contains substantial sexually explicit scenes and graphic language which may be considered offensive by some readers. Please store your files where they cannot be accessed by minors.

All sexually active characters in this work are 18 years of age or older.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are solely the product of the author’s imagination and/or are used fictitiously, though reference may be made to actual historical events or existing locations. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

Cover Design: Emma Hillman A Thin Line © May 2010 Emma Hillman eXcessica publishing A Smashwords Edition All rights reserved

A Thin Line

By Emma Hillman

Chapter One: A Dark Place

Just as she was bending down to check how much longer the dryer would take, the laundry room’s door banged shut and the lights died. She blinked in the sudden darkness, her fingers tightening around the edge of the machine as she heard shuffling in the not-far-enough distance. “Hello?” “Who’s there?” Oh hell. There was a man in the room! “My name is Kate. I live on the second floor.” “Oh, I’m Jace. Third floor, apartment B. Do you know where the switch is?” “Outside the door on your right.” “Outside?” he repeated just before grunting as if in pain. “What’s wrong?” “I can’t open the door.” Her eyes widened. “You can’t open the door? Are you kidding me?” “No, I wish I was.” He sounded disgruntled. “Fuck, someone must have locked us in.” “It’s the middle of the night!” “Yeah, probably a kid playing a prank or something.” “Bang on the door! I need to get out of here!” “And I don’t?” he muttered before doing as she’d asked. He banged on it, his palms aching after a while but nothing happened. No click announcing the lock’s opening. No laughter ringing outside. No sudden flash of the overhead lights. Nothing but darkness and silence. “I don’t think they’re coming back,” he said minutes later.

“Shit,” Kate said before biting her lower lip. She couldn’t believe this. Her mother had warned her not to use this laundry room late at night, scared that something would happen to her daughter, all alone in the big city. But she hadn’t had a choice. She had a job interview the next day and she’d needed to clean her one white shirt and black pants. She couldn’t afford getting them dry-cleaned after all. But here she was, stuck in this Godforsaken room with someone she didn’t even know. And her clothes weren’t even dry yet! “You can say that again. Do you have your cell on you? Maybe we could call for help.” “Oh. Good idea!” She grabbed her phone and slid it open, light hitting her face and making her gasp in relief. That didn’t last long however. “No coverage.” The man sighed. “I was wondering if that was going to be the case but we had to try at least.” Kate was chewing on her lip now, wondering if she could try calling 911 anyway. Weren’t cell phones supposed to work in emergencies? Because this sure as hell was one! But no, even as she dialled the three digits and waited, nothing happened. A beep rang in her ear, reminding her she was underground and she could kiss being rescued goodbye. All she, they, could do was wait and hope someone would need to use the machines soon. Yeah right, her mind countered bleakly. It was nearly three in the morning and she was the only stupid person who washed her clothes at such a time. She blinked when she realized there was another person who was just as stupid as her. And he was talking to her. “Are you okay over there?” “I’m fine.” “Okay. Well, guess there’s nothing to be done but to sit around and wait.” “Yeah.” That was the last thing they told each other.

It was only when the cold started seeping into her thin-soled canvas shoes nearly an hour later that Kate realized she wouldn’t be able to last the night like this. She was propped up against the machine now thankfully quiet, her clothes somewhere inside, all soft and warm. Except she couldn’t see enough to find the right button to unlatch the door. She’d played with her cell phone for too long and the battery had died. And yes, thank you very much, she knew that had been one stupid move. But it’d been that or talk to the smooth-voiced stranger currently singing to himself in the corner. She stood up and groaned as her muscles protested. Her hands stretched in front of her, she took a few steps, knowing she needed to move before cramps made themselves known in her calves. She bumped into something hard and metallic, biting back a gasp of pain as her knee took the brunt of the impact. “Ouch!” “You okay, Katie?” “My name is Kate.” He ignored her answer as he asked, “So?” “I’m fine. Just bumped my knee.” “Why don’t you sit down again?” He clearly thought she was going to kill herself, walking around like this in the dark. “I’m cold.” “Oh. Can I help?” “Not sure how you can, no.” Leave me alone. I don’t know you! She didn’t say those but they were clearly implied. “Do I know you?” he asked suddenly as she wondered where the door was and if she could reach it. “I don’t think so.” “What do you look like?” She froze to a stop. Did she want to describe herself to him? Not really. He

probably wouldn’t like what she’d tell him anyway. Instead, she threw the question back at him. “What about you?” “I’m six feet two. Blonde hair, blue eyes. I don’t like shaving on principle. What else? I’m a sports agent. I moved into Apartment B last month and I quite like the building and its tenants so far. What about you?” “I live in Apartment A on the second floor. I’m a freelance translator but I’m trying to find a more permanent position.” She paused then added, “I have a cat called Millie.” “I used to have a cat,” he replied. “He was a childhood pet, you know? He died last year. My parents were heartbroken.” “What about you?” “What about me?” “Were you heartbroken too?” she asked as she stepped closer, basing herself on his voice. He was at the door earlier so hopefully he was still there. Maybe she could take over banging on it, make a raucous noise so they could be rescued. Anything would be better than this, she thought as she rubbed her arms. She was freezing! Turns out she should have stopped walking while trying to warm herself up. Her feet bumped into something and suddenly she was flying. A harrumph rang underneath her as she shrieked and landed on a hard body. Her head hit the wall and she went still for a second or two, too shocked to understand what’d gone wrong.

“Katie? Katie?” Hands were running over her body. “Did you break something? Are you hurt? Katie, answer me!” Jace pleaded with her, his voice sounding panicked. “I’m okay,” she finally answered. She grabbed onto the first thing she could find -his thigh?- and tried to push herself up. “Fuck, you scared me!” Fingers found her waist, the touch so unexpected she

squeaked. “Is it hurting?” “No, no.” She couldn’t tell him it was the long-forgotten feel of a man’s touch that had her blushing. Or squirming in his embrace. “Let me go.” “I’m trying!” he grunted and she felt even worse. She was too big to be sprawled on top of him like this! But he didn’t complain, simply wrapped his arms around her so he could push her down instead of up. She found herself sitting between his legs, her butt on the cold concrete floor. She started shivering almost immediately, her threadbare jeans not thick enough to be any good. “Katie?” “My name is Kate!” she repeated for what felt like the umpteenth time, wondering why she was suddenly feeling warmer.

Oh. His arms had gone around her, his chest cupping her back. His thighs pressed against hers and she buried her hands against her midriff in an effort not to touch him more than necessary. “Thank you.” “You were cold.” That was his only explanation but it was enough. She couldn’t relax however. She still didn’t know him, even if his selfdescription earlier had brought a spark in her memory. He was the cute one. She’d seen him leave for work one morning, dressed in an expensive suit, talking on a cell phone and ignoring the rest of the world. He was the typical playboy, or at least he looked like it. “Should we try banging on the door again?” She felt him shrug. “If you want. Not sure what good it’ll do though.” “Someone might hear us.” “It’s what? Four in the morning? Do you really think someone’s gonna come downstairs at this time?” “I did. You did!” “I only wanted to check what was making that noise.”

“What noise?” “You. I thought…I thought you were a thief or a homeless person.” She blinked. What the hell? “Nice,” she couldn’t help but comment. “I didn’t think anyone used this room in the middle of the night.” “So I had to be an outsider.” “Yeah. It made sense at the time.” She grunted an unintelligible response and closed her eyes, bending so she was resting her forehead against her knees. Her back arched, her butt rubbing against his crotch. She held herself immobile, a blush spreading across her face. Thank God he couldn’t see her! It was such an intimate position and she really had no right sitting against him like this. Of course, he’d been the one who’d thought it was a good idea but that was probably because he didn’t know what she looked like. Or maybe he was just helpful like that?

“Tell me about you.” “Why?” “I need to talk. I’m falling asleep here and I don’t think we’ll like the consequences if we end up snoozing like this.” She frowned. “What do you mean?” “Cold floor, cold wall. Hours stuck in this position. Not good, trust me.” “Oh, okay.” “So, tell me about you. Talk to me, Katie.” She opened her mouth to tell him off but he got there first. “Kate, I know, I know. I’m just teasing you.” She grumbled but finally said, “I don’t know what to tell you.”

“Anything, baby.” She felt her nails bite into her palms as his endearment. He’d probably used it without thinking but she hadn’t been called that in years. Her butt even colder than before, she shifted on the concrete floor and ended up pressed closer to him. “Cold?” “Yeah.” “Me too.” “I’m sorry.” He chuckled. “Why are you apologizing? It’s not like you locked us in here.” “You came downstairs to check up on me.” “True but that was my decision.” “If you say so.” “I do,” he said as his arms tightened around her. “Shit, my fingers are about to fall off.” He pressed his hands against her sides and she jumped at the coldness seeping through her t-shirt. “Sorry, sorry!” “No, no, it’s okay.” “Are you sure?” She nodded and he seemed to think that was enough. He held on to her with both hands, rubbing his palms against the soft cotton of her shirt every so often as if to warm them up. It’d have been fine -okay a bit odd but still fine- except for the fact his fingers were nearly touching her breasts. His thumbs hit the undersides once again and she couldn’t help but jerk a little. “Too cold?” he asked, his breath hitting her nape. “No. Yes. I don’t know.” He didn’t comment this time around, simply kept on brushing his hands against her. And this time, when his thumbs hit her bra-covered breasts, they hit her nipples. The ones that’d been hard for what felt like hours, not because of

arousal but because of the damn cold in this room. As soon as he touched them, even inadvertently, she gasped, the buds crinkling even more. “Ah!” He froze behind her. “Katie?” “Shoot,” she mumbled under her breath. This was awkward as hell! “Did I hurt you?” “No. No.” “Sorry.” “You didn’t hurt me.” “But I touched you.” She opened her mouth then realized she didn’t know what to say. “Your nipples are hard.” Her eyes widened once again. She couldn’t believe he’d just said that! “I’ve noticed,” she tried to respond, her voice sounding sharp even to her own ears. “It’s cold in here.” “Is that why they’re like that?” “Yes,” she hissed back, wanting him to change the subject. And pronto! “So it’s not because I’m here? Touching you?” What a cheek! “No.” “Are you sure?” His voice was lower this time around. He didn’t give her time to respond. He was suddenly cupping her breasts in both hands, the heat of his skin making her nipples sit up and react. Or react even more if you wanted to be technical about it. She groaned at the onslaught of sensations and he chuckled in her ear, “What were you saying again?” “Stop it!” “I’m just warming you up. See?” He enclosed her nipples between two fingers, rubbing them one way then the other. Oh, sure, they felt warmer, that was true. But it was also probably because her whole body had ignited. The jerk!

“Stop right this instant!” “Why?” She frowned. “Why what?” “Why do you want me to stop? This is a good idea, you know. We can get warmer. It’ll stop us from falling asleep. And if I have to spend one more minute with your ass pressed against me, I might just go crazy.” Say what? “I don’t understand.” “I’m horny.” Well, that was to the point. “I don’t know you.” “We can get to know each other when it’s daylight.” “I don’t sleep with strangers, point blank.” “Come on.” He nudged her head and pressed a soft kiss on the side of her neck. “Live a little. And if you’re worried about protection, I’ve got a condom in my wallet.” “Only one?” He started laughing. “Yeah, baby. Guess we’ll have to be creative.” Creative was the right word for it. They were sitting in the dark in a cold basement and he wanted them to have sex! “I don’t know.” “What about I start and you can stop me any time?” She bit the inside of her mouth. “Any time?” “Yup. Come on, baby, I wanna fuck.” She knew he’d probably say this to everyone who was with him, stuck in this situation, but she couldn’t help but yearn...for him. For this. It was such an incredible opportunity. He couldn’t see her so he didn’t know, or much cared, about her appearance. She wouldn’t worry about her wobbly thighs or soft belly

because he couldn’t even look at them. She could be as loud or crazy as she wanted because no one would open the door for at least a few more hours. And…she knew what he looked like and he was hot. As in, hotter than any of her previous or future boyfriends. He was so out of her league and she knew it. Maybe he even knew it. He could feel her body after all; he knew she wasn’t stick-thin. But yet, he was still suggesting they had sex. As soon as that last thought crossed her mind, she knew she’d give in to him. So it was with remarkable aplomb that she turned around in his embrace and knelt in front of him before saying, “Okay then.”

Chapter Two: A Hot Night

Lips met hers before she even finished her sentence, hands grabbing the back of her head and pulling her down. He moved his legs so she could straddle him, accepting her weight on his thighs as if it was nothing. He was too busy kissing her breath away, groaning in her throat when she racked her nails in his short hair. They ate each other’s mouths until they had to come up for air. He lifted her shirt, hands sliding over her skin and making her shiver. “Still cold?” “Yes.” “Me too. Not for long though.” He traced her jaw with his lips, then her neck until he found the spot where it met her shoulder. He tongued it, making her gasp at the unexpected pleasure. “Like that?” he asked before tugging her shirt even higher. His hands found the edges of her bra, thumbs digging underneath the lacy material and finding the hard nubs waiting. He teased them with a soft caress before dragging the bra down, her breasts popping out as if finding his warmth was the best suggestion they’d heard all night. He groaned at the feel of her breasts pressed against him. “I’d like to see those in daylight.” No, you wouldn’t, Kate answered inwardly. Before he could say anything else, she let her hands fall between their bodies and touched the front of his pants. He was hard, curving slightly to the left as if his boxers didn’t have enough room to tolerate his width. Wow, she mouthed to herself, wondering how it’d feel inside her. “Touch me,” he groaned then and she quickly found the button and zipper that held his tros closed. She opened everything, drew his boxers down until skin touched hers. Hard and smooth. “You’re big,” she found herself saying out loud then she blushed in reaction. He chuckled. “I’m big all over, baby. Mmm, you feel good.” He lowered his

head and took a nipple in his mouth, suckling on it until she was rubbing herself on his thighs, his cock in her hand forgotten.

Things spiralled out of control until he tried tugging her jeans down. The cold floor was such a sharp reminder of where they were that she shouted, coldness seeping once more into her. She pushed herself up and wrapped her arms around herself. “What’s wrong, baby?” He was soon standing beside her, his arms wrapping around her back and pulling her close. “Too cold?” “Yes. I don’t think I can do this, Jace. I’m sorry.” “No, no, we’ll find another solution, that’s all.” She blinked. Another solution? “What do you mean?” “Come with me.” He took her hand in his and stepped forward at a slow pace, making sure not to bump into anything. It’s only when he found the washingmachines that he stopped and said, “I’ve got it.” “You’ve got that?” “Come here, baby.” He palmed her waist and said, “I want you to sit on one of these. Okay?” She understood his plan straight away, her insides clenching. “Are you sure?” “Oh yeah. I wanna fuck you, Katie.” Kate! But instead of telling him off once again, she squared her shoulders and grabbed the machine behind her with both hands. After a few minutes spent struggling, he gave her a hands-up and she found herself sitting down on a washing-machine, Jace spreading her thighs wide so he could step between them. “Hey there,” he whispered, his mouth finding hers once again.

“Hey,” she replied minutes later, panting softly. His hands were busy dragging her pants down her legs, her shoes dropping to the floor with a loud sound. He tugged at everything until only one denim leg dangled from her left foot, her panties tangled around it. With one shove, they fell to the floor and Jace was once more standing up between her legs. He parted her thighs wide, his palms slowly sliding up her skin. He traced the soft curls hiding her folds, his thumb gliding downwards until it hit her clit. She groaned. “Oh!” “Feels good?” he asked, his focus fully on his task. “Yeah.” She couldn’t say anything more, too busy feeling. This was crazy! His fingers were parting her open now, one finger entering her, stretching her. She gasped but he didn’t stop. “You’re already wet, baby.” “Am I?” Was that a bad thing? A good thing? She couldn’t think. Her hips rocked as he started a slow thrusting rhythm with his finger, hooking it so it rubbed against her inner wall. A weird sensation flitted through her lower half, almost as if her body wasn’t big enough for what was coming. “Jace?” “Yeah? Trust me, baby, I know what I’m doing.” She wasn’t sure how he’d known she was suddenly feeling nervous but she was grateful for his reassurance. Of course, she didn’t know him so trusting him was an issue but- “Shit!” He laughed, pleased with himself. His fingertip pressed against her spot, going round and round, while his thumb played with her clit at the same time. “Like it?” “Yes!” That made him laugh even more. “Come on, Katie. I want to hear you scream.” Oh, she didn’t think she’d have any problems with that! Already pleasure was swirling through her, her hands automatically grabbing onto his shoulders to

hold on. “Jace…” “Come for me, baby.” That was all it took. Her back arched, his hips thrust forward. Her mouth opened on a shout that echoed throughout the room. She tightened around his finger so much he swore and palmed his cock with his left hand. He grabbed his wallet from his back pocket and slid it open, searching with clumsy fingers for the foil wrapper stuck in it. Seconds later, before she’d even come down from her high, he pushed inside her. Hard.

“Fuck, yeah,” Jace growled as he felt her walls enclose around him. “You’re so tight.” He slid out then rammed back in, making her gasp again. “Yeah, baby.” Shoot, Kate thought as she looped her arms around his neck. This was rougher than what she was used to! Her thighs gripped his flanks in an effort not to slide off the machine. Her butt ached from the cold and sitting down for what felt like hours. But she didn’t complain. Probably because each time his cock entered her, the head bumped into that sweet spot he’d found earlier. By the third time this happened, she was a quivering mass of nerves and excitement all mingled together. She concentrated on the feel of him inside her, so foreign and yet somewhat right. He was whispering dirty things to her, his voice creating images in her mind, sensations taking over. Between that and the incessant pounding, she forgot where they were. Who they were. She just clung to him and closed her eyes, revelling in the pleasure of it all. “You’re close, aren’t you?” he asked, his tone gruff. She nodded then bit his earlobe, needing to do something. Anything! Her nails bit into his back, making him growl. His right hand slid down from her hip until his thumb was once again playing with her clit. She keened, the sound ringing sharply over their heads. Her walls tightened around his pounding cock so much, he swore out loud and let go. They

came as one, as if they’d been making love together for years.

* * * *

“What are you doing here?” Kate jerked awake at the sound of the super’s voice. She was fully dressed once again, thank God for that, but her legs had cramped over the last hour spent dozing in Jace’s arms and she nearly tumbled off the washing-machine. “What?” She rubbed at her eyes and winced at the sudden bright lights that flashed on over her head. “What are you two doing here?” Clint stepped into the laundry room, his gaze taking in everything. “Someone locked us in,” Jace said as he stepped down from the machine on her right, groaning when his feet hit the floor. “Fuck, that hurts.” “What happened?” Jace shrugged. “Not sure but the lights were turned off and then we couldn’t open the door. We’ve been sitting here for hours now.” “Oh.” The super looked at them with a weird expression on his face, probably wondering if they were telling the truth or just making it up. “Anything I can do?” he finally proposed, staring at her as if willing her to step down from his beloved machines. Kate sighed and managed to climb off without too much pain incurred. She did tilt a little on her feet as they met the ground but she managed to right herself more or less straight away. Trying not to look at the man who’d been inside her only an hour before, she turned around instead and opened the latch so she could get her clothes out. “What time is it?”

She heard Jace ask then bit back a panicked cry when he said it was already past seven. She needed to get ready for her interview! Shit, shit. Shit! Hurryingly dropping all the clothes into her hamper, she grabbed it with both hands and hefted it up in front of her. “I gotta go,” she announced to the whole room as she stepped around them and toward the door. “I have a job interview in an hour and I’m not ready!” Nobody called her back and she fought the need to look over her shoulder as she exited the room. They hadn’t talked about what’d happened; they’d just fallen asleep once they’d restored their clothes to order. She had no idea if she’d see him again, if they’d do it again. Cursing herself inwardly for her weakness, she focused on her coming interview and tried to push him out of her mind. Or the way he’d felt. How he’d made her feel. Damn it. She had to stop this before it even started. They had no future together. All they’d done was have some hot sex because, hell, they’d had nothing else to do. It’d been a way to the time, to keep them entertained so they didn’t freeze to death. It sure as heck wasn’t the start of any type of relationship. It’d been just sex. Right.

Chapter Three: A New Role

Three months later

Her hands tightened around the pillow resting on her lap as another knock rang out. Then another one. Then he got angry and called out, “Come on, Katie! Open up, damn it!” She shook her head no, knowing he couldn’t see her but unable to stop herself. She wouldn’t open the door. Not tonight. Not ever again. She was tired of always being there for him, tired of this life where she was nothing but a warm body. His playground, that’s what she was. She knew it was her fault. She’d said yes to everything, hadn’t even reacted when she’d seen him with his perfect girlfriend that first time weeks earlier. Hadn’t commented when he’d ed her in her apartment that same evening, pushing her on her back so he could take her. No words were spoken, no feelings were shared. No recriminations, no questions. She’d been a good little mistress. And now she hated herself. Hated her weakness where he was concerned. He treated her like crap but sometimes he could also be very nice. He always made sure she came for example. Okay so that was probably because he liked his women to enjoy the sex they were sharing, but it was still nice… Or sometimes he even talked to her, whispering little things in her ear as they lay in bed, panting from exertion. He’d even managed to get her to agree to do things that were beyond her usual scope, beyond anything she’d thought she would do. Or even like. But she had. She did. He was turning her into someone she didn’t know, and it was scaring her so much she couldn’t move from her sofa as her front door shuddered under his repeated knocks. “Baby, come on! What the fuck is wrong with you? I know you’re in there!”

He only knew she was because he’d seen her earlier. He’d been standing in front of the elevator, his arm wrapped around his girlfriend’s waist, head bent as if he was telling her something intimate. He’d felt her gaze on him and had looked up, his eyes widening as he saw her, frozen into place, only a few feet away. He’d motioned her to keep walking, as if he couldn’t deal with her now. As if all his attention had to be focused on the woman sharing his life in the open. The one who he introduced as his girl, the woman who looked enough like him to be his twin. Blonde with blue eyes and a sparkling smile, she had a good career in ment and obviously earned a very nice salary if the clothes she wore were any indication. Kate had hated her on sight. And yet, had she told him anything? No. She’d kept quiet and had accepted him in her bed as if it was entirely natural he shared himself. That woman, Liza, was his official girlfriend, the one he took out to parties, the one always hanging on his arm. Meanwhile Kate was the mistress, the one no one knew about. She didn’t belong in his world and they both knew it. She didn’t look the part, didn’t have the right job, family or connections. But she was good in bed and she did things his girlfriend would never even dream of. She was a perfect bed toy, meant to be hidden away in a corner when people visited.

Kate was brought back to the present when she heard footsteps echo in her hallway. What the hell? Had he found the spare key she’d hidden? She jerked, a moan of distress leaving her parted lips when she saw Jace standing in the threshold. His features taut, he glared at her as he asked, “What the fuck is wrong with you?” “No-nothing.” “I’ve been banging on the fucking door for hours! What the hell, Katie?” She bit her lip hard enough to draw blood. Her fingers curling around the pillow as if holding on to something would help give her courage, she looked up and said, “I didn’t want you to come in.” He’d been walking towards her but his steps faltered at her words. “What?

Why?” “I…I don’t think we should see each other anymore. I can’t do this. I just can’t.” “You can’t do what?” “This.” She waved her right hand between the two of them. “The sex?” She nodded. “Why? You can’t really expect me to believe you don’t like it anymore. You were screaming my name just last night, baby.” She ignored his meaningless endearment and forced herself to stand up, her body only inches from his. So close and yet, she tried to ignore the immediate reaction his nearness induced in her. She wouldn’t give in. Not this time. She’d promised herself! “Maybe but tonight is different. I can’t do this anymore, Jace. Just leave. Please.” “No.” He crossed his arms over his chest, his gaze focused on her face. “I want to know why you’re doing this.” She laughed, the sound sharp and brittle. “Like you don’t know why.” “Is it because of Liza?” She nodded. “Why now, Katie? You’ve known about her since the beginning.” That wasn’t quite true. When they’d found themselves locked up in the laundry room that fateful night, he’d proposed sex but had never told her he already had someone. He’d taken what he wanted, had done so ever since, without even showing one ounce of shame. If she didn’t love him so much, she’d probably hate him. “I just can’t take it anymore. I don’t even recognize myself!” He frowned. “What do you mean?” “I’m not that woman, Jace. I can’t be. I’m better than that. I deserve better!” A warm palm cupped her chin, tilting her head up so he could look into her eyes. “Of course, you do. You’re an amazing woman, Katie. I love our time together, you know that, right?” She nodded, knowing he wasn’t lying, even now. He did love their time spent together. After all, all they did was have hot, wild sex. She snorted but he ignored it as he added, “But I don’t see why things should change

all of a sudden. I know you like being with me, baby. I know you.” He lowered his head and brushed her lips with his. “And you know I need you. I always need you.” He took her mouth for an intense kiss, his tongue tangling around hers almost leisurely. As if she hadn’t just told him to leave. As if he intended to stay. And even as her hands looped around his neck, even as his leg slipped between her thighs, she couldn’t ignore the sharp pain lodged in her heart. She was doing this to herself, she knew. She could push him away and he’d probably get tired of asking her, would find someone else to entertain him at night. But could she really live with that idea? No, she was too weak. She was already sharing him with another woman; she couldn’t deal with knowing he’d go find someone else to have sex with. At least she could give him that. That was something, right? It just had to be enough for now. Eyes closed, she hung on to him and felt moisture trickle down her cheeks, the tears burying themselves into her hair.

* * * *

“I want your ass,” Jace said, his eyes flashing as he grabbed her waist and pushed her to her stomach. Kate sighed as she felt the soft comforter underneath her. “Again?” “Yeah, I can’t seem to stop wanting you that way. You’re so fucking tight, I love it.” At least she was getting better at this, she mused a few minutes later, not even wincing when his finger pushed at her rim and entered her. He’d taught her about anal sex, something so taboo she’d never thought she’d experience it. Ever. But he’d been adamant and had pushed and pushed until she’d given in,

telling him she’d try it once but only if he was gentle. Oh, he’d been gentle. That hadn’t been the problem. She just hadn’t come the first time around, something that had never happened with him before. Then the second time, then the third. Until he’d gotten so mad he’d forced her to touch herself while he took her ass. Turns out that’d worked out fine. She knew what to do to make herself come after all. Ah. And so, as he prepped her with lube and deep caresses, she knew just what to expect. When he pushed against her rose, the head of his cock feeling unbelievably hard like this, she let herself go and pressed back. She felt him slide into her, pausing every few seconds. Once he’d started thrusting straight away and she’d shouted at him to stop. She could take this but pain was another thing entirely. “Okay, baby?” he breathed out, his fingers digging into her hips. She nodded and braced herself on the bed, sliding her hand down so she could start playing with herself. Except he stopped her. “No!” She blinked. “What?” “Don’t, I’ll take care of you.” Uh? It took her a while but she finally understood, as he thumbed her clit with light touches, that her earlier speech had had an effect on him. Not the desired effect mind you -he was still here after all- but he was trying to do better. He pinched her nub between two harsh fingers just as he pushed inside her, the dual stimulation enough to make her forget her thoughts. Damn man was right. For the first time ever, she came with his cock pounding in her ass and it wasn’t even thanks to her clever fingers but his. Who’d have guessed?

Chapter Four: A Second Try

This time, she’d made sure there was no spare key waiting for him to be found. And just as expected, he knocked on her door around midnight, turning the handle as if she’d left the door open for him. Kate froze in the corridor leading to the front door, her palm on the wall to give her some . She listened to his increasingly louder knocks, knowing he was going to start calling out to her soon. And he did. “Katie! For fuck’s sake. I can’t believe you’re pulling this again!” “Katie! Open the fucking door!” “Come on, you know you want me. I know you do.” “KATIE!” Footsteps then, “You hid the fucking key, didn’t you? Are you proud of yourself?” Not really, she answered inwardly, her nails biting into her thigh. She stepped closer when silence finally emerged, wondering if he’d given up and left. She should have known better. The cell phone she’d stuck in her back pocket suddenly rang, scaring her so much she let out a squeal. She grabbed it and looked at the screen. Jace flashed in bright lights, just before a knock rang on the door. “I can hear you inside, baby. Why don’t you open the door?” His voice was in stereo and it’s only when she looked down that she realized she’d clicked the phone on without thinking. Shit! Taking a deep breath, she slid down the door until she was sitting against it and tucked the phone against her ear. “I don’t want to.” “You don’t want to what?” “Open the door. Jace, we went through this last night. I don’t want this anymore. Let’s just leave at that, please.” “No, that’s too fucking easy!” “I don’t care!” She heard his clothes shuffle as she waited for his response,

another yell probably. Except he surprised her by saying, “Don’t do this, Katie.” “I don’t have a choice.” “Why not? It’s good between us, you can’t deny that.” “Is it really?” “Come on!” His anger sparked once again. “Are you gonna start lying now?” “Why don’t you just go home and call her?” “So that’s your problem.” “I told you this last night!” she couldn’t help but snap back. “Anyhow, I gotta go.” “Don’t! Baby, don’t. I’m sitting right here and I want to talk to you about this. We should discuss it like two adults. You owe me this at least.” She owed him? Was he kidding her? “No, forget I said that. Just…make me understand what’s going on. Please?”

She looked at her cuffed hems and wondered if she shouldn’t just hang up and hide in her bedroom. He was trying to break her down, she knew it. He wanted sex and the easiest way to get her to open the door so they could have some fun was to pretend he was interested in her and what she had to say. Biting her lip, she replied, “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” “Why not? You know I want you. I’ve never lied to you-” She cut him off, “You had a girlfriend and you didn’t even tell me!” “I still spend all my nights with you, don’t I?” “No, Jace, we just have sex.” “Good sex. Great sex even. And don’t tell me you don’t like it because I know

you do.” “I’m human!” Fuck! “And that’s got nothing to do with it.” “It doesn’t? Are you sure?” “Yes!” “So what’s your problem?” “I can’t do this anymore, that’s all. I can’t keep on living like this. Waiting for you to want sex so I can see you-” “It’s been like this for months, baby. What’s changed?” It was a valid question, she thought. She’d never said anything about his girlfriend, had never even hinted she hated the situation. It was all her fault, that much was clear at least. “Nothing. It’s just…let’s just say I’ve always hated the situation but I thought my time with you was enough. But I was wrong. It’s never going to be enough. I’m not made to be a whore, Jace.” “You’re not a whore,” he countered straight away but that only made her laugh. “How can you say that when you only come see me when you want sex?” “It’s not the same! I’m not paying you for it, am I? I enjoy our time together-” “You enjoy the sex!” “So what?” he exploded. “So fucking what?” “Okay, this is going nowhere.” She stood up slowly. “I’m going to hang up now and leave you to go and find your girlfriend.” “What? Katie!” “Bye, Jace.” “We’ve never had sex!” She lowered her phone and stared at it for a few seconds before putting it back to

her ear. “What?” “Liza and I, we’ve never had sex. You’re the only one, Katie.” “How come?” “She’s…holding out. As long as she doesn’t have a Tiffany ring on her finger, she won’t put out.” Kate leaned her head against the door, her thoughts in shambles. “She’s waiting for you to propose before having sex with you?” “Yeah.” “That’s crazy.” “No, it’s just the way things are here. She’s holding it back, hoping it’ll push me into asking her in marriage. It’s a win-win situation for her.” But what about you? She wanted to ask but didn’t. “If you say so. So that’s why you’re always so…charged when you come here.” “Yeah. You’re my only escape, baby. I live a very stressful life and I love spending time with you. You chill me out. You…yeah, you’re my escape from reality. Please open the door...I need you.” She could understand his predicament but it still didn’t make it right. He was still using her, even if he had a reason for it. Sighing, she replied, “Good bye, Jace. Hope your wedding is worth all the drama.” Before he could stop her again, she slid her phone shut and turned it off completely. Jace’s voice rang through the door but she ignored it, hurrying to her bedroom, turning the radio on and the volume way up. Maybe her neighbors would hate her for the noise but she couldn’t bear listening to his pleadings. They were done.

Chapter Five: A White Knight

Jace couldn’t help it. Every time he took the stairs up to his apartment, he had to stop on the second floor and stare at Katie’s door. She’d been true to her word and hadn’t answered his calls, emails or messages in weeks. He’d tried everything he could think of: getting flowers and chocolates delivered to appease her; writing her sexy texts so she knew he was thinking about her during the day. Nothing had worked. She was still staying incommunicado and he was going crazy. Liza might be the perfect partner for him: beautiful, clever, good at sports and with a family that would open myriads of doors for him, but she was still denying him her bed. Oh, she was good at teasing him. Kissing him with just the right amount of hunger. Letting her hands trail over his thighs and chest. But never had she touched him intimately. Never had she even undressed for him. It was as if she was playing a game and knew she held the reins. Of course, she was fully aware of how much he relished her father’s position. He was the biggest sports agent in the country and he could make Jace a very famous man if he just snapped his fingers. Liza had him by the balls and she knew it. Gritting his teeth, Jace walked past Katie’s door, his moody thoughts interrupted by the sound of a cat mewling. He paused, wondering if he’d imagined it but the distinctive noise rang again. “Millie?” As if the cat had heard her name, the mewling became louder. “Millie, what’s wrong, hon? Your Mommy’s not home?” “Mwaaahhhooo.” “You hungry?” “Mwaaaaaaaaah.” “Guess that was a yes, please.” Jace looked at his watch and frowned when he realized it was already past midnight. He could clearly see a ray of light under the door so Katie was inside. Of course, even if he knocked, she’d never answer

so there wasn’t much point in even trying. Except her cat was getting louder by the second and pretty soon, people were going to start complaining. He’d never known Millie to be anything other than a sweet ball of fluff, always climbing on the bed to catch a cuddle or two. She only made some noise when it was time for her breakfast or dinner. So where was Katie and what the hell was wrong with her cat? He knocked once and called out, “Katie! Katie! Your cat’s hungry!” No response, just as he’d expected. Fuck this. He started banging on the door, the noise echoed by the cat’s loud mewling. “Katie!” He couldn’t hear anything above the din but he was pretty sure no one had moved inside the apartment. He suddenly grew cold. A bad premonition crawled into his mind, worry buried deep inside him. “Katie?” he tried once again, to no avail. He hadn’t tried to find her spare key in weeks but this time he stuck his hand on the door’s frame, along the edges. Anywhere he could think of. Nothing. Cursing under his breath, he pivoted on his heels and looked at his surroundings. Door, door, wall, window. Plant? He hurried to it and searched the ceramic pot. Nothing. Then he had a eureka moment and traced the inside rim, his fingertips hitting metal. Bingo! Grabbing the key, he strode back to her front door and quickly unlocked it. He stepped into mayhem.

“Katie?” he called out once again as he surveyed the mess greeting him. What had happened in here? “Katie, baby, are you here?” He followed Millie into the kitchen and quickly fed her so she would shut up. Sighing in relief at the blessed silence, he continued with his inspection of her apartment and stepped into the den. And froze. “Katie?” She was lying on the sofa with her back to him, completely still. Oh God no! He hurried to her and grabbed her shoulder, forcing her to turn around. Her face was pale, paler than he’d ever seen it except for the red circles beneath her eyes. “Baby?” His voice was barely above a whisper, fear gripping him. Please make her be all right. He couldn’t live with himself if he’d pushed her to…to… Her eyelids fluttered. She moaned and tried to twist away from his grasp, her

mouth parting. “Sleep.” “Look at me, baby. Katie, please. Open your eyes.” She seemed to hear him, her eyes finally meeting his for a fleeting moment before she closed them again. “Jace?” “Yes. I’m here, baby. I won’t leave you. What’s wrong? What did you do?” What did you take, he nearly asked. “Uhm?” She opened her eyes again and tried to push him away from her. “What are you doing here?” “Millie was yelling her head off. When did you feed her last?” She blinked. “I can’t .” “What’s wrong, baby?” She didn’t answer, just looked at him weirdly. “How did you get in?” “I found the key you’d hidden in the potted plant.” Her eyes widened. “What’s happening, Katie? You look like…like…” He tried thinking of something that wouldn’t anger her but she beat him to it. “Like death warmed over, I know. I’ve got a bad case of sinus infection and the pills the doc gave me are so strong all I can seem to do is sleep.” She finally managed to get out of his embrace and leaned back down on the sofa, snuggling against the soft cushions while searching for a tissue with her right hand. “Shit, where did I put them?” “What are you looking for?” he asked as he watched her rummage underneath her and in her hoodie’s pockets. “Tissues.” He looked around and spotted a box on the coffee table. He reached for it and grimaced when he noticed the crumpled tissues scattered throughout the room. Looked like she’d been sick for days. The feeling of worry inside him was swiftly replaced by one of shame. She’d been all alone while he partied the

nights away, drinking himself to oblivion so he could forget his life and what he’d done with it. He hadn’t been proud of how he’d acted with her, how he’d used her. But he hadn’t been able to stop himself. She was everything that he yearned for in a woman: warm, giving, sexy as hell. But he couldn’t have her. Not as something more anyway. Liza had to be the one, even if the more time he spent with her, the more he hated her and her scheming. But she was his future, the one he’d dreamt about for years. But Kate…his Katie, had been sick and had had to deal with everything by herself. He knew she didn’t have much money; he also knew she couldn’t have insurance or that being freelance, every day she had to take off sick would mean she’d barely make ends meet by the end of the month. Fuck, why was he feeling responsible all of a sudden? Before he knew it, he’d handed the box to her and left the room. She probably thought he’d gone but in fact, he’d decided he was staying. He would clean the mess and stay with her in case she needed him. He’d feed Millie and watch TV and just…be there. Yes, that was a good idea. Brilliant even. For the first time in weeks, he smiled. And even seeing her out like a light on the sofa didn’t alter his mood. He was there to stay.

Chapter Six: A New Way

“Can you please just go away?” “Nope.” Feet crossed on the coffee table, half-lying on the sofa, Jace didn’t even look up as she stepped into the room. Of course, he was watching ESPN on her TV so maybe his attention was somewhere else, like with the Buccaneers. But hell, this had to stop! Walking to the middle of the room, she came to a stand in front of the smallish plasma screen and crossed her arms. “I don’t want you in here, Jace. Thanks for helping when I was sick but now I’m better so you can go home.” “Nope,” he repeated but this time he looked up and met her gaze. “It’s the weekend so I might as well stay here.” She blinked. What did that have to do with anything? “Don’t you have somewhere to be? People to see? Isn’t your girlfriend wondering where you’ve been for the past two days?” “I called her up and said I’d be out of town until next week.” She felt her eyes widen at his lie. “I see. That still doesn’t explain why you think you should stay here. I don’t want you here.” “Don’t you?” he asked, his eyes steady. “Are you sure about that?” She nodded but he ignored the gesture. “I thought we could spend some time together this weekend. You’re probably not well enough to go anywhere so I’m here to keep you company.” “I’m used to not having company,” was the only thing she could think of saying. Then she added, “I have Millie.” He rolled his eyes. “She’s a cat. A nice cat, I’ll give you that, but it’s not like she could give you a massage or cook you dinner.” Her ears perked up. “A massage?”

He smirked as if he knew he had her. “Yeah. You look kinda tense so I thought I could help you relax.” Kate stared at him, willing herself to be strong and throw him out. Except she couldn’t. He’d been so nice over the past couple days, cleaning her apartment, feeding her cat. Making sure she was all right in her bed, keeping her supplied with tissues, pills and soup. He’d been…perfect. He’d behaved like a proper boyfriend, something he’d never done before. And even if hope had started growing inside her, his earlier news about calling Liza had shattered those. But here she was, still yearning for the happiness that spending the whole weekend with him would bring. She wanted it, damn it! She wanted the illusion of mattering to him. She wanted to feel as if he loved her, as if they were just a normal couple. So because she was weak and pathetic, she nodded and said, “Okay then.” He smiled, looking pleased with himself, as he stood up and took her hand. “Let’s move to your bedroom.” “I could have lied down on the sofa, you know.” “Maybe but I changed your sheets and it’s more comfortable anyway”. “I’m not going to have sex with you,” she called out as she followed him down the corridor but he didn’t reply. Probably because he didn’t believe her. And rightly so as it turned out.

Half an hour later, she was lying on her stomach, only wearing her bra and panties. Fingers dug into her back, hitting spots that made her moan in pain and kneading her stressed-out muscles until she went limp all over. He was good at this, she thought for the half-dozen time, her hands tightening around the duvet underneath her. “Better?” His voice flitted over her, his hair brushing her shoulder as he moved slightly and began massaging her lower back. “Yes. Ouch!”

“Hurts?” “A little.” His eyes narrowed in concentration, trying to find the spot that had made her jump. He stretched her skin one way then the other, making sure not to press too deeply as to not hurt her again. Her back arched. “There!” “Okay, baby. I’ll take care of it.” Kate closed her eyes, letting him do whatever he wanted. She wasn’t too sure what had brought his change of behavior but she was loving it. For now, she was going to enjoy herself. She deserved it after all…right?

So when his touch became more deliberate, more…tender, she didn’t comment. She didn’t pull away, simply laid there, her breathing speeding alongside her heartbeat. They hadn’t had sex in two months and she was pretty sure nothing had changed since then, except…except Jace didn’t act the same. Hands unclasped her bra, pushing the two halves so they dangled along her sides. She moved up and let the soft lace fall underneath her, retrieving it quickly before sending it flying across the room. Jace chuckled behind her as he pressed her back down, his mouth finding its way to the back of her neck. He nibbled on her skin, going as far as giving her a big hickey, never listening to her protests. Those stopped when he leaned up and whispered in her ear, “I want my mark all over you. I’m going to bite and suck every single inch of your body so that my touch is all you can see.” Her insides clenched. What’d happened to him? He never waited for an answer, simply moved down the bed so he could trace her spine with infinite slowness. And when he got to her panties, he pushed them down so he could press a kiss to each butt cheek. And then, he bit her. “Jace!” “I told you, baby.” “But-”

He bit the other one then dragged her underwear off. Before she knew it, he was lying between her parted legs, his fingers already opening her up. Her hips thrust up but he held her down with his palm on her lower back. “Don’t move.” “Are you kidding me?” She looked at him over her shoulder. “You can’t expect me not to move when you’re touching me like this!” His eyes flashed. “Want me to spank you instead?” “Are you nuts?” “Katie,” he growled and she lied back down. “That’s better,” he praised her as he took back his erstwhile position. “I want this to be good for you.” “It’s always good,” she muttered under her breath but he wasn’t listening any longer. No, he was too busy iring her folds, finding that lovely nub that always brought out the best in her. He licked his thumb and circled it around her clit, watching it grow and harden. Lowering his head, he pressed the tip of his tongue against it for a swift second before tightening his lips around it. Then his teeth. He bit her, gently this time but it was still a bite. She gasped, her back arching. “Jace!” He pulled back and reminded her, “Don’t move!” “Fuck,” she groaned but moved back down. Grinning, he slid two fingers inside her and felt her walls stretch around the invasion. Bending down, he licked her from top to bottom, making sure the flat of his tongue pressed against her clit often. He could hear her moaning now, knowing she was on her way to a sharp orgasm, relishing the fact he was the one taking her there. And when he felt her twitch, when juices started trickling down his fingers, he brought it up a notch and found her clit with his teeth once again. He bit her, again, but this time it was just at the right moment. She shattered around him, her walls squeezing his now immobile fingers, her juices flowing. He lapped it all up, never stopping until he could feel her constrict once again. She screamed

his name this time around and he knew he was where he was supposed to be. Life had been returned to normal. Life was…just plain good.

Chapter Seven: A Perfect Weekend

“Yes, baby, just like that.” Kate grinned at his slurred words. He was so out of it, he was nearly tearing her hair off. Yeah, she praised herself, she was damn good at this! Letting his cock pop out of her mouth with a wet sound, she lowered her head and lapped at his balls. Softly at first then a bit harder, her finger finding the spot behind them that always made him growl out loud. “Fuck, Katie. I love your mouth.” He steadied himself, his legs trembling as his orgasm neared. He looked down at her, the sight nearly enough to make him blow right there and then. She was kneeling on the floor of her room, naked in broad daylight, her breasts jiggling at her every move. Her eyes were closed as if she was really enjoying what she was doing, and he knew she was. She loved giving him pleasure, she loved sex point blank. If only she was more like Liza… Or if Liza was more like her. He bit his lip and forced the thoughts away. “Suck me, baby.” He watched as she looked up and winked at him before taking his cock into her mouth once again. But this time, she let him move deeper than ever before and when he felt his head bump against the back of her throat, he let out a roar and came in sharp, thick jets. She drank it all, sucking him dry until he pulled out of her mouth, limp and fully sated. Grabbing her by the shoulders, he pulled her up and hugged her to him. “Thank you,” he murmured against her hair, feeling emotional and not entirely sure why. He forced the feeling away and drew back. Taking her hand in his, he led her to the bed and they snuggled under the covers, both silent, both reliving what’d happened that day.

* * * *

It wasn’t a big surprise to find herself awakened by his touch on her, Kate thought as she brushed her eyes and fought the urge to sleep some more. She still

wasn’t feeling 100% but Jace wasn’t going to slow down for her. He was already pushing her legs open, his hairy thigh finding its way between hers. Fingers drifted over her curved stomach, teasing the undersides of her breasts with light caresses before tightening like vises around her left nipple. She gasped, her butt rocking back into him. His erection nudged her, so hard and hot she wondered how long he’d been awake. “Jace?” “Yes, baby?” “Condom?” “Oh shit!” He moved away from her and she could hear him rummage through the box on the bedstand. A minute later, he was lying behind her once again, his hand cupping her hip as if to hold her steady. “Ready?” “Yeah,” she breathed out, feeling him nudge her folds. In one swift push, he was inside her. He couldn’t do more than shallow penetrations in such a position but she didn’t mind. Probably because his head kept bumping into her G-spot and once he realized that amazing fact, he began teasing her in earnest. “Jace!” He laughed, too pleased with himself to stop now. He wanted to feel her even closer however, needing the touch of her skin to erase all the doubts circling through his mind. So he embraced her as best he could and moved to his back swiftly, her shocked shriek making him laugh once again. “There, perfect,” he said as he positioned her body over his. She was open to him like this, her breasts soft under his hands. He nudged her legs so they opened wide and then he started pushing inside her once again. He kept it slow, the pressure building as he caressed every inch of skin he could reach. Kate fought the tension spreading through her. This was amazing, better than anything she’d ever felt before. Jace’s left hand was playing with her breast, weighing it and fingering the nipple until it’d hardened into a crinkled nub. His right was between her legs, teasing her clit in time with his thrusts. It was too much at once but she wasn’t going to complain any time soon. The thought flittered through her brain that she was probably too heavy like that but it died as soon as she heard him growl in pleasure. She’d tightened her inner walls around his cock, knowing he loved it when she did that. Ah, two could play that game! They came together only a few seconds later, their shouts mingling in the air

above them. And as they crashed down from their high, Kate sliding off of him to snuggle against his side, both thought how well-suited they were. At least in bed…

* * * *

Could he live without this for the rest of his life? Jace asked himself as he watched himself enter her from behind, her ass wide open after his earlier ministrations. She accepted him easily now. Oh, he knew she didn’t love it like he did but she was getting there. Could he do the same with Liza? Could he ever teach her to love anal? He’d never even touched her pussy but he knew she’d probably scream bloody murder if he tried to caress her rose. They’d been watching a HBO documentary one evening months earlier and as soon as someone had mentioned it, his girlfriend had made a moue and declared people who liked it were sick. Oh, it might be because no one had shown her how good it could be. Explained that it wasn’t dirty, that it could even be very, very sexy, but he wasn’t stupid. He knew she’d probably tell him to go fuck himself. What if he married her? Would he find himself cheating on her, again, because she wouldn’t give him what he wanted? What he needed? Because he wasn’t delusional either. He knew himself. He needed to do it. Not all the time but at least once a week. That wasn’t too much to ask surely? “Jace?” Katie called out. He snapped back to the moment and realized he’d stopped thrusting. Shit! “Sorry, baby.” She ignored his apology and said, “Touch me.” He started at her request. “What?” “Touch me.” She wriggled her hips, pushing his cock deeper inside her tight channel. “Or do you want me to do it?”

“No, no!” He lowered his hand so it reached between her legs. “Like this?” he asked as he patted her clit, already slick with her juices. “Oh, yes.” She bent her head and held on as he picked up his rhythm. Then because she couldn’t help herself, she slid one hand down and nudged his fingers out of the way. He grinned, stopping once he was to the end of her to ask, “Want to do my job now?” “I’m better than you,” she shot back, the unexpected show of spark making him grow even harder. “Bet I can make you come faster.” “Bet you can’t.” Face tense, he gripped her hips in both hands and slid out of her. Her rose gaped open, the view so nice he nearly stopped everything just so he could lean down and kiss it. But no, he shook his head, she wasn’t ready for that yet. Instead, he pushed back inside, fighting against the rim of muscles. It was so tight and warm inside her, he could spend his life in there. Pushing on her lower back, he forced her down so her body was at an angle before he started thrusting into her. Faster than before. Harder too. The head of his cock grated her insides at every push, his nails digging into her soft skin. Meanwhile her finger was rubbing her clit up and down, the palm of her hand against her pubic bone for some -and thoroughly not needed- extra stimulation. She froze however when she felt a burning sensation develop inside her. It was hot and weird and…She couldn’t think anymore. Her brain shorted out, there was just no other explanation. Her body burst into flames and she came so hard she nearly blacked out. And when Jace’s cock exploded inside her, she was still shaking with aftershocks. Minutes later, when he slipped out of her and pushed her so she laid on her back, her limbs were still trembling. Her eyes were wide open and unfocused, her mouth parted as she panted. “Baby? Are you okay? Katie?”

She blinked, her gaze finding his. Then she smiled, a bright grin that transformed her face. “That was the most amazing feeling ever!”

Jace stared back at her, feeling the same smile stretch his lips. He was proud and happy and once more aroused but most importantly, he was at peace. And just then, he wondered what he was doing and why he couldn’t just give in and love her. She was already his after all.

Chapter Eight: A Tough Decision

Kate tiptoed to the kitchen, wearing a grin and nothing else. Her confidence had taken such a huge boost this weekend, she felt as if she was walking on air. It was too bad it didn’t last long. Hearing Jace’s voice, she stilled to a stop and listened to his side of the conversation.

“Yeah, babe, of course I do. You know I miss you. I’ll be back tomorrow and we can go out, no worries. No, I won’t be late. I know how much your dad likes punctuality. Yes, Liza. No, I haven’t visited any jeweller this weekend. Baby, come on! Do you really think I could find anything nice in Philly? Of course I know what you like. Yes, I know. I gotta go, babe, someone’s knocking on the door. Probably room service. Good night. Love you too, baby.”

Kate stepped into the room, her face pale and her hands tightened into fists at her sides. “Get out.” Jace looked up, his eyes taking in the way her eyes had hardened, pain swirling inside them. “Baby-” “Don’t!” she cut him off. “I don’t want to hear it. I was waiting for you while you were talking on the phone with her as if nothing…as if…You told her you loved her! You’re in my home right now, Jace!” “I know that. She called me and I had to respond. You know that.” “No, you didn’t have to do anything. Just like I don’t have to stay here listening to your excuses. Get out. Go back to your apartment and never come back!” “Katie…” He took a step forward but she was already shaking her head. “You don’t understand, do you? You keep on hurting me, Jace, and I can’t take it anymore. I thought this weekend had…had changed things but I guess I was

wrong. Please, just go.” “Baby-” “And stop calling me that!” she erupted. “Go! God, I hate you right now.” “No, you don’t.” Her eyes flashed. “Shut up.” “You don’t hate me, Katie. You might tell yourself that but you don’t. You love me, we both know that.” She might have just said she hated him before but at that moment, she really did. He was throwing her love back in her face, as if it meant nothing. As if she was so unbelievably stupid to feel like this. “Fuck you. Now get out before I call the cops.” He drew back, aware he probably shouldn’t have said that. But she couldn’t force him out. He wanted to stay, damn it! “Come on, Katie, we had fun this weekend. You know it’s good between us. Why don’t we-” “GET OUT!” she screamed, grabbing the first plate from a stack on the counter and sending it flying toward his head. He stepped aside just in time, his eyes darkening. “What the fuck was that?” “Get out.” She exhaled. “Get out. Get out. Get out.” “This isn’t over!” he called out over his shoulder as he strode down the corridor and opened the front door. “I’m serious, Katie. This-” She shut the door in his face and slid down the smooth wood until her face was pressed against her knees. Tears slid down her cheeks, hiccups bursting from her parted lips. She was so fucking stupid, she thought as she ed what she’d done over the past two days. She’d let him inside her heart again and had been hoping that his new attitude meant he’d felt something for her too. But no, it’d all been an act. He’d told his girlfriend he loved her while she stood only feet away, minutes

after they’d made love in her own bed. And the guy hadn’t even realized how wrong it was! Was he so selfish that he didn’t even understand how hurtful his behavior was? Maybe...Or maybe he just didn’t give a damn. Who could blame him after all? He’d had the best of both worlds. Well, no more. This time, she was going to find herself a boyfriend; one who treated her like a princess and actually cared about her. No more pathetic, wimpy girl. She was going to become a new Kate. Damn right!

* * * *

She’d colored her hair so it was now a brilliant shade of red. It went very well with her green eyes and she wondered why in hell she’d never thought, or had the guts, to do that before. Her clothes were too nondescript to go with her new look so she’d gone on a shopping spree. Nothing too expensive but cute, tight and colourful clothes that showed off her curves and still hid a multitude of sins. Now, everywhere she went, she turned heads. Oh, she still wasn’t beautiful and she never would be, but her new-found assertiveness made her look good. Men stared at her in the subway, taking in the deep V of her dress or the way it hugged her hips. Eyes followed her as she climbed up stairs, high heels elongating her legs and calves. She looked better than ever but she still wasn’t happy, she mused that evening as she stopped outside of her building and turned to face her date. He wasn’t too bad-looking: nice brown hair and eyes, a shy smile and a penchant for talking about films she’d never heard of. He didn’t make her blood fizzle but that was okay. She was tired of bubbles anyway. Been there, been hurt by it. So as she watched his face reveal his intentions, she leaned up and met his lips. His kiss was fine too. Nothing exciting but at least he wasn’t too wet like the one the night before. No, it was, all in all, quite acceptable. She was thinking about pulling back and breaking the kiss when she heard it. That grating noise. Her laugh. Liza’s laugh.

Before she knew what she was doing, she’d looped her arms around her date’s neck and had started sucking on his tongue. He moaned in her throat, his hands finding her butt as if he needed to hold on to something. She felt a heated gaze on her back and knew Jace had seen her. He was watching her kiss another man and she couldn’t help but be pleased. It might be a petty revenge but it was all she had and she sure as hell was going to enjoy it as much as she could.

* * * *

Jace stumbled slightly when he realized the couple embraced on the front stoop was in fact Katie and another man. He’d know that ass anywhere. Fuck, what was she doing? Ignoring Liza’s prattle, he focused on his former lover and her amazing curves, showcased in the tightest dress he’d ever seen. What the fuck? His gaze veered upwards, taking in the red hair tumbling down her back. What had happened to his girl? Where’d she gone? He watched as she broke the kiss and leaned back, smiling at her bedazzled date. Jace’s hands tightened into fists as he noticed the man’s hands were still on his beloved ass. Who was he to touch her like this? Hell, that ass was his! “Baby? Jace, what’s up? Can we go in now? I’m cold.” Liza grabbed his arm even tighter, shivering in the short skirt she’d insisted on wearing despite the inclement weather. “Baby?”

Jace wasn’t listening. Katie had turned around and was now facing him, her eyebrow raised almost as if in question as she stared back at him. She was baiting him, he realized. Then she leaned to her left and asked her date, “Want to come in for a nightcap?” The man mumbled something, his eagerness plain to see. He thought he was getting lucky but there was no way in hell Jace was going to let that happen. Tugging on Liza’s hand, he entered the building after the couple and managed to get into the elevator with them. He glared at Katie but she ignored him, too busy letting her fingers play with her date’s shirt buttons.

“Jace? Jace, come on, this isn’t funny anymore. What’s wrong with you?” Liza asked as she pressed 3 on the lift’s . “If you don’t stop this instant, I’ll leave!” Good riddance, a tiny voice in his head answered. Apparently she’d heard it because she pushed another button and the doors slid open once more. “You’d better apologize for this, Jace Collins! And it’d better come in a blue box!” Those were her parting words but he barely heard them. He had to find a way to get rid of Katie’s date. The man wasn’t good enough for her, it was plain to see. All he wanted was sex and Jace wouldn’t allow that to happen. No, she deserved better than that. She was too good for the likes of him. She was his, damn it!

Chapter Nine: A Speech To

A hand grabbed hers just as she was leaving the elevator, a hand that held on tight even as the doors slid shut, stopping her from getting out. A voice called her name outside but Jace was quicker. As soon as the elevator rose to reach the third floor, he pressed the Stop button and everything came to a standstill. “Jace!” Her palms smacked into his chest but he’d been prepared for it. He stood in front of the , denying her access. “We need to talk.” “What the hell is wrong with you? I’m on a date!” “What’s his name?” She blinked, her mind trying to in vain what the man had told her only hours before. “Uhhh.” “You don’t , do you? Do you know what that tells me?” “I don’t really care.” He ignored her outburst. “That you don’t care about him one way or the other. He’s just a means to an end, isn’t he?” “What does that mean?” “You don’t want him, baby, don’t deny it. You want me.” She couldn’t help it, she laughed. He staggered back, shocked by her reaction. “Why are you laughing?” “It’s you, it’s your fucking ego! Can’t you leave me alone? Why don’t you run back after your little fiancée and let me live my life?” Her voice rose. “We’re not engaged,” he snapped back. “And I might be selfish but I’m also not stupid. Tell me the truth, Katie: do you really want that guy?” She refused to answer. “You want me as much as I want you.”

“You only want me for sex,” she said as she whirled around, shrieking when the cabin tilted at her sudden movement. “Shit! Press that goddamn button!” “No.” He crossed his arms over his chest and stared at her. “We haven’t finished talking. You’re right. I do want you for sex.” “Ah!” “But I also want you because I like you. You might not believe me but I care about you.” He watched her eyes darken and a myriad of emotions flit across her face. “Stop lying, Jace.” “I’m not lying, baby. Why would I?” “Because you miss the sex?” He sighed, as if disappointed by her answer. “Of course I miss it. Don’t you miss it too? We’re good together, Katie.” “That doesn’t change anything. I can’t base a relationship on sex. What the fuck am I saying? We don’t have a relationship because you already have a girlfriend!” “Fine!” he snapped back, retrieving his BlackBerry from his jacket’s inside pocket. Pushing speed-dial number 1, he waited for it to ring then said, “Sorry about earlier, hon, but something came up. I’m afraid I have bad news. I know this will come as a shock but I need to…to take a break. No, no, I’m fine but I don’t think our relationship is really working. I like you a lot, Liza, but I need more.” He grimaced as a strident voice erupted in his ear. “I know, I’m an ass and a dickhead and whatever else you want to throw at me. And yes, I know you’re gonna tell your daddy and he’s going to make my life hell. Yeah, I know that too. But what can I say? I’m not happy.” More shrieks. “Have a nice life, Liza. Good bye.” He pocketed his cell phone and turned back to face Katie. “So where were we?” She stood with her arms limp, wondering if she hadn’t imagined it all. “You broke up with her?”

“That’s what you wanted, right?” She nodded. “So, what now?” “I don’t know.” She licked her lips, feeling as if her world had spun out of its axis. “Why did you do that? You needed her.” “I did. I do. But I’ve realized I had a choice to make.” “A choice?” she repeated, her voice small. “I could either make a life for myself or I could start enjoying the one I already have. I chose the second option.” “What?” “I chose you, baby. I need you. I can’t stop thinking about you.” He took a step forward just as the elevator started moving again, its doors opening to reveal an irate man.

“What happened? And who the hell are you?” Her date stepped into the elevator, grabbing her hand as he tried to pull her out. “Who is he, Kate? Should I call the cops?” “No, no, he’s my…” She let her voice trail, wondering what to say. Former lover? Neighbor? Friend? “She’s my girlfriend. Who the hell are you?” Jace asked, grabbing her other hand and pulling her back inside the elevator. She stood with her arms stretched out, her gaze going from one man to the other. “Stop it! Jace!” she hissed. “Let’s go to my place, baby. We have a future to plan.” “Is he telling the truth?” her date asked, his face somber. If only she could his name…It started with R, she was pretty sure of it. Robert? Ryan? Rick? “No.” “Yes!” Jace answered, his free hand sliding around her to cup her butt. “Come

on, baby, let’s go. I want you.” “Jace!” Her voice rose. “Stop it!” “Are you two together?” her date asked once again. “Why didn’t you tell me you were already in a relationship? And why did you kiss me earlier and invite me in? Are you two playing a game? Is that it? God, this is screwed up!” He took a step back. “You two are screwed up!” He let her hand go and pushed his way inside the elevator as Jace took the opportunity offered and forced them out. They’d switched positions and it took a second for Kate to understand what’d happened; a second too many it appeared as she watched the doors slide shut in front of Ricky’s disappointed face. Robbie’s? Maybe it hadn’t started with an R after all. Argh! Jace’s arm wrapped around her waist as he steered her towards his apartment, the one in which she’d never been allowed. He’d always come to her, too worried about Liza appearing at his door and finding them in a compromising position. Maybe he really wanted to give this a go after all, she thought as he unlocked his front door and motioned her inside. She stopped short in the middle of the entrance hall, her gaze taking in the wide surface. It was all white and black with massive windows in the background, the monochrome modernist take so fashionable it hurt. Too bad it was as welcoming as a morgue. “Wow,” she couldn’t help but say. “That’s…” “Awful, I know. I hate it. I mean, I love the space and the apartment itself but the décor is way too stark. I can’t even sit on the sofa without sliding off.” “So why-” “Why I kept it, you mean?” She nodded. “It looks good. It fits my image.” Her eyebrows rose at his explanation and he grinned ruefully. “I’ll get to changing it, don’t worry. Thirsty?” “Not really.” “Horny?” he asked as he stepped closer, his palms finding her hips. Before she could answer, his mouth had found hers. His kiss was electrifying

and she let herself fall against him. She wouldn’t start hoping this would last because he’d hurt her too many times before. But as he led her, a smile on his face, to his bedroom, she couldn’t help but dream of what may come…

Chapter Ten: A New Day

She stood in front of his office building and looked up. And up. The tower made of glass and steel was so imposing she felt ridiculously miniscule in comparison. Come on, you can do it! She boosted herself, or tried at least, squaring her shoulders before stepping inside. She could do it. Jace had asked her to come meet him for lunch as he’d left that morning. She’d still been half-asleep in his huge California King-size bed, snuggled up in sheets that probably cost more than her own bed. His enquiry had made her heart flutter however and she’d found his gaze on her, tracing her partially hidden curves with renewed interest. She hadn’t been able to say no, so here she was in an elevator full of suited men holding cups of coffee and wrapped-up posh sandwiches. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out at the thirty-third floor and looked around. The first thing she noticed was that there were only men. It was an open plan office, divided into several cubicles with some walled-up offices at the back. She guessed one of those was Jace’s but hell, she was meant to walk through that in order to get there? Her steps faltered, someone bumped into her and swore under their breath. She grimaced as she took a step to her right but not fast enough. A male voice rang behind her. “Can I help you?” She turned around and gulped when she noticed the mountain of a man glaring at her. “I’m here to see Jace Collins.” “And you are?” She licked her lips, forcing herself not to fidget under the granite gaze. “Kate.” “Kate who?” Okay, time to snap out of it! She was here for a reason, damn it. Her eyes flashing, she asked, “Can’t you just point me to his office? I’ll announce myself. And don’t worry, he is expecting me.”

“I’m afraid I can’t let you in without proper authorization.” “Why don’t I call him then?” “No need.” The security agent slid a slick cell phone from his jacket pocket and hit a number. Putting it to his ear, he said, “Jace? Someone here to see you. Says her name is Kate and you’re expecting her. Ah, I see. Coulda told me that earlier, man. Okay, I’ll show her to your office and tell her to wait.” He turned the phone off and gestured her forward. “Let’s go.” “So I take it he’s going to be late?” “Yeah, he’s in a meeting with a client. Said to put you in his office and offer you anything you wanted.” “Anything?” she couldn’t help but ask. The man grinned at her. “My thoughts exactly.” Kate walked in front of him, wondering if she’d gone crazy because it sure felt like the man had just flirted with her. Trying to ignore the interested gazes following her, she took comfort in the fact she was wearing something she was sure Jace will like: a wrap-around cardigan, black skirt and knee-high boots. Easy access had been her motto that morning. Of course she wasn’t sure they could do anything in his office but he would know she’d dressed for him and he’d get a kick out of it. She might have only been his part-time lover over the past few months but she had learnt some things about him. “Here you go,” the tall man said as he opened a door and gestured her in. “This is Jace’s office. As you can see, it’s quite comfortable so feel free to sit around or even turn the TV on. Can I tempt you with anything?” She whirled around, her eyes wide. “Excuse me?” He smirked. “Coffee? Tea? Anything?” he added, looking far too pleased with himself. “No, thank you.” “You sure?”

“Yes. Do you know when his meeting is supposed to finish?” He shrugged. “No idea but yell if you’re bored and I’ll come find you.” What the hell? Kate watched him leave the room, winking at her over his shoulder as he deliberately left the door wide open. She could see a good dozen men looking at her over their cubicles and grew faint. What was she doing here again? Trying to ignore them all, she turned around and faced Jace’s desk. Piles of documents were staggered on either side of the blotter, the unusual mess bringing a smile to her lips. In comparison to his sterile condo, this was downright ordinary! She amused herself by looking out the window, fighting the instant vertigo that being so high up brought in her. Ten minutes later, she was still standing, wondering whether she should go sit on the sofa and appear as if she was enjoying herself; or just forget about appearances and turn the TV on. Decisions, decisions… “Baby?”

She whirled around at Jace’s voice and couldn’t help her reaction. She flung herself in his arms and brought his head down for a quick but thoroughly satisfying kiss. He pulled back and said, “Wow. What a welcome.” She blushed as she left his embrace, realizing everyone was watching them and that she’d made a spectacle of herself. “Sorry.” “No, no, don’t apologize, baby. It was sweet. And hot.” He smirked. “Sorry to keep you waiting by the way,” he added as he circled the desk and plopped down in his chair. “I had a meeting that ran over and now I have to send a few emails before I’m free for lunch. Is that okay?” He looked up from his laptop, waiting for her nod of approval. His gaze took in her ensemble for the first time, lust flashing across his face. “You look great, Katie.” “Thanks.” She tittered on her high heels, fighting the urge to smooth down her skirt or check that her bra wasn’t on display. Her nerves were shot after her wait.

She watched him type on his computer, smiling when she noticed his intense look of concentration. She’d never seen him at work before and she couldn’t help but be thrilled to be finally part of his life. To be out in the public eye, so to speak. He looked at her and asked, “What’s up?” “You’re too cute.” One eyebrow cocked, he repeated, “I’m cute?” “Oh yeah.” “Guess I’m gonna have to work harder at making you scream your head off. I’m not cute, babe. Maybe hot or even sexy, but cute?” He shuddered, making her laugh. Shaking his head, he went back to his emails and she kept on watching him. He might say whatever he wanted. He was still cute!

Minutes later, a loud “Shit!” echoed through the room. She jumped and whirled around. “What? What’s wrong?” “Someone just emailed me to say there’s a meeting upstairs in half an hour and I have to be there. Shit,” he repeated, speed-reading through the message to find a loophole. To no avail. He looked up. “I’m sorry, baby. I have no choice. Fuck, I can’t believe this is happening today of all days!” He stood from his chair and grabbed her hands. “Forgive me?” She nodded, disappointment building inside her. “It’s okay, it’s not your fault. Do you want me to go out and get you something to eat?” He shook his head. “Nah, let’s order in. With some luck, I can get something delivered from the corner deli and we can eat together before I have to leave.” He punched a number on his desk phone and said, “Tom? Could you get me two pastrami on rye and a chocolate slice? Cheers, mate.”

Kate looked back at him. “Who was that?” “My assistant. So where were we?” He stood up and sat on the edge of his desk, pulling her close until she was standing between his legs. “Jace?” He didn’t reply straight away, too busy tugging at the tie closing her top. “Jace! The door’s open!” He looked around her and grinned. “So it is.” Patting her shoulder, he went to close it but not before announcing to Tom that he could knock when the food was there. Great, Kate thought, now everyone knew what they were doing! “Are you sure we can do this here?” “I’m sure,” he replied, moving into his erstwhile position. “I want you, baby. I’ve been thinking about you all morning long, ing the way you looked in my bed. All naked and flushed and downright hot.” He untied her cardigan with a wicked grin, her gaze taking in the sheer bra. “So nice,” he whispered as he traced the scalloped edges. Before she could stop him, he’d lowered his head and bit her nipple through the thin lace. She gasped, her hands finding their way to his head. Closing her eyes, she held on and enjoyed every single second of it.

Chapter Eleven: A Happy Ending

Jace took the call without checking the incoming number, too impatient to reach home and the woman waiting for him there. They hadn’t done more than some thorough kissing and heavy petting at lunchtime and he was beyond hard. Beyond wanting. He needed her underneath him, his hands on her breasts and his cock inside her warmth. He just needed her really. Who’d have thought he could be so happy with his little Katie? She made him want to laugh and smile at the world and it was such an amazing quality he wondered why on earth he’d waited so long. He’d been wasting his time with Liza, he realized that now. Oh, she wasn’t a bad person; she just wasn’t for him. And he didn’t need her father. He’d get up the echelons himself. Yes, he would! “Hello?” He hooked his cell against his shoulder as he tried to knock on Katie’s door at the same time. “Jace, this is Jim Butcher. Liza’s father.” Jace stilled, his hand still in front of his face. “Good evening, Mr Butcher. What can I do for you?” “My boy, you’ve screwed up. And badly at that.” “I don’t understand, Sir.” “Don’t bullshit me, son. My daughter has been in hysterics for the past twentyfour hours and I’m at the end of my tether here. She was expecting a ring and all she got was a phone call!” “I understand what you’re saying, Sir, but this is, and should stay, between Liza and I.” “That’s where you’re wrong. You know who I am, Jace. You know I could kill your career with just one phone call.” His eyes closed at the dreaded words. “I do know that, Sir. And I never wanted

to hurt Liza. I just…” He stopped talking, unsure of what to say. With a sigh, he turned around and faced the hallway. “I fell in love with somebody else. I never wanted to hurt your daughter, Sir, but it…it just happened.” “Who is she?” “My neighbor, Sir.” “The one you’ve been fucking for months?” Jace felt the ground disappear beneath his feet. He knew? “Yes, yes, that’s her. Katie.” “I see.” The sound of tapping fingers could be heard through the phone. “I guess it’s a relief you didn’t find a third woman to add to it all.” “Uh, yes Sir.” “Are you sure about this, son?” He was giving him a way out, Jace realized. If he told him he’d made a mistake, that Katie was just for sex, that he really did love his daughter and wanted to marry her, he’d forget about it all and put him back in his good graces. He’d probably even smooth the way to get Liza’s forgiveness. Jace felt his insides clench at the thought. He’d been so fucking happy today; he should have known something would happen to destroy that elusive feeling. Sighing, he turned around and stopped short when he saw Katie standing in the threshold, her eyes on him. She didn’t say anything and he knew she’d heard everything. From her stricken expression, he guessed she was thinking he would leave her. Hurt her. Again. No! He couldn’t do that to her again. She deserved more. And so did he. “I’m sure, Sir. 100% sure. Please on my apologies to Liza but I won’t be in . Have a good evening, Sir.” “Fine, if that’s the way you want to do this. She’d better be worth it, son.” The phone clicked in his ear and unseeing, Jace slid it back in his pocket. “Baby?”

“Jace, I…” She let her voice trail, her arms coming up to wrap around herself. “I love you.”

Her head jerked up. “What?” “I love you,” he repeated, walking the few steps that were separating them. “But…your career? Jace, you can’t-” He cut her off, “We’ll deal with it. Don’t worry about me, Katie. I can take care of myself.” He smiled when he realized he actually believed it. They’d be all right. They had each other after all. “So, don’t you think you’ve forgotten something?” She blinked, too shocked by what’d just happened. He’d told her he loved her! Her! Not Liza, his perfect almost-fiancée but her! “What?” His palm cupped her cheek as he nudged her face up to his. “I’m not really used to this, that’s true, but I think you’re supposed to say something back.” Oh. Spurred by the look in his eyes, she jumped up, looping her arms around his neck before whispering against his parted lips, “I love you too. So much.”

And as they kissed, the rest of the world forgotten, what had started in a dark basement blossomed into reality. Who knows, maybe one day, Jace would reveal he’d been the one to lock them in… And maybe, just maybe, she’d tell him she’d always known.

The End

ABOUT EMMA HILLMAN

Emma Hillman never plans her stories. She just lets the characters have fun and hopes the ending will make sense. It usually does.

She lives in Paris with a husband, a toddler and two loud pets. She speaks several languages but only reads books in English because she says it sounds better. She’s been running her fiction web site for years and has made many friends and fans across the world, and is very thankful for their continued and inspiration.

Between working full-time and taking care of her family and house, she can be found reading fiction, cooking or watching Playhouse Disney—don’t ask.

If you enjoyed A THIN LINE,

you might also enjoy:

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION By Emma Hillman

Mia Adams keeps bumping into her fantasy. Literally. From crashing her car into his to ramming his shopping cart at their local supermarket, each encounter brings her closer to the man she’s always dreamed of: Kevin McIntyre, a former pro football player with an attitude and a propensity for swearing.

He seems perpetually angry but she has to it the look suits him. She’s pretty sure experience makes perfect too because the man has some serious skills. Let’s just say she’s been screaming his name a lot lately. Although, sometimes, it’s to shout at his disappearing back. She shouldn’t care, however, that he doesn’t seem to her name or that he keeps leaving as soon as he gets what he wants. They’re just having some fun after all.

Then why is he inviting her to his house? Did he change the rules and forget to tell her about it? The sex must have gone to his head, there is just no other explanation.

Warnings: This title contains graphic language, toy play, and anal sex.

Excerpt From LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION:

She gasped, her finger slipping out of her mouth with a wet sound. “What is it? Did you find them?” “No!” He turned back to the desk and clasped its edges with both hands. He willed his erection down but he couldn’t get her out of his head. She was messing with his mind, damn it! “Did you spike my drink?” “What?” She sat up. “You think I drugged you?” “Yes!” He whirled around. “You did, didn’t you? What did you put in my Coke? GHB?” “Man, you are crazy.” “What did you do?” he roared as he grabbed her armrests and loomed over her. “Tell me!” “Nothing! And don’t you think you’d be feeling impaired right now if I’d put something in your drink? You drank it down in one gulp!” He pushed himself upright and started pacing. She made sense, damn it! He was feeling fine, except from the way his jeans were tenting. So maybe she wasn’t at fault there. Maybe it was just his body’s way of reminding him he hadn’t had sex in a while. Why now though? He’d told her the truth earlier: she wasn’t his type. He usually went for the longlimbed, fake-tanned-and-boobed women that seemed to always be around football players. Groupies, bunnies, whatever they called themselves. He didn’t care as long as they were hot and ready to fall in his bed. But this woman was different. She wasn’t thin or tanned. Oh, she was curvy as hell and her ass was round just like he liked them. He could definitely do something with that ass. Oh yeah. Fuck, McIntyre, get a grip! She was crazy! He didn’t need the aggravation, that was for sure. She watched him rake his hand through his hair. He looked agitated and angry and just plain hot. God, she loved this look on him. Hearing her sigh, he turned to face her and spotted her half-closed eyes. “What now?”

“Mmm?” She blinked. “I was just thinking how hot you look when you’re angry.” He felt his teeth snap together. She was unbelievable! “So you like it when I get angry?” His voice was deceptively soft.

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And look for these other titles from Emma Hillman:

BEHIND LOCKED DOORS: BOOK ONE by Emma Hillman

She wakes up to find herself locked in a harem. It would have been a great as a dream, except it isn’t. And now she’s stuck with four men, or Masters as they want to be called, and an assortment of other women all but begging to satiate their hungers.

Follow Thursday’s first weeks in the harem as she fights not to get caught up and end up one of these nameless women. She keeps on telling them no but this is their game and they all want to be the first to get the ultimate prize—to make her come.

Warnings: This title contains graphic language, group sex and some f/f elements.

YES NO MAYBE by Emma Hillman

What would you do if your husband cornered you one day and asked you to fill out a list asking for your thoughts on every sex act under the sun? Would you think “Fun! I can steal some of these ideas!” or would you get scared that he’s trying to tell you something? That maybe your sex life isn’t spicy enough for him, that he wants more?

Soon after Mia McIntyre completes her list and hands it out to her husband, her life gets turned upside down. At first it’s fun. A lot of fun. Their fantasies are suddenly becoming reality and they both get a kick out of it.

But when other people start getting involved, things turn complicated. Mia pushes on, intent on pleasing Kevin. She loves him after all and she’d do anything for him…wouldn’t she?

Warnings: This title contains graphic language, ménage, some elements of nonconsent and anal sex.

MAN FRAME by Emma Hillman

Lucy loves her new neighbor. One, because he’s seriously hot; and two, because he leaves his window open while getting himself off. What she doesn’t know however is that Nate can see her too. Every evening, he watches her undress, the blue film covering her window not enough to mask her silhouette. He’s already half in lust with her body and that’s before he knows what she looks like, apart from her round breasts and even rounder ass.

Things accelerate when Nate takes matters into his own hands and invites her to his condo. It was only supposed to be some fun between two consenting adults but suddenly there’s another man with them. A man who’s invited himself to the party and who seems to really enjoy looking at her. Rodrigo likes it even more when he’s touching her, making her lose control in a way she’s never experienced before.

He’s not duped though. He can see how his best friend is acting with her. There could be something good between these two and he pushes them further and further, until…

Warning: This title contains graphic language and m/f/m sex.