by Judy Angelo
“Pardon me?” She didn’t speak French and couldn’t even begin to make a wild guess at what he’d just said.
“Are you ready, miss?” He gave her a smile and a bow of the head, his attitude one of such deference that she couldn’t help smiling as a wicked thought ran through her mind. Rico Megalos serving someone? With his huge ego and all that money, never in a million years.
“Certainly, monsieur,” she said with a smile and took his hand. She was enjoying this game they were playing. Enrico Megalos, at your service. That was his self-appointed role for the day and she was loving it.
Rico helped her climb into the motorboat and she soon realized that it was not half as scary as she’d thought. It was much smaller than the yacht, of course, but at almost thirty feet in length it was long enough for her to feel safe and secure.
Her captain for the day hopped in beside her and slipped behind the wheel. In baseball cap, polo shirt and baggy jeans he looked even younger than his twenty-five years. The wide grin on his face added to his youthful appearance. She could hardly believe this was the same man she'd met so many weeks before, the one who’d had his face screwed into a permanent scowl. She liked the new Rico Megalos.
“I packed a picnic basket.” He turned and reached behind to lift the lid off what looked like a low storage cabinet. Inside was tucked a basket, bottles of wine, bottles of water and a wide-brimmed straw hat. There was even a bottle of sunscreen.
“You’ll need these,” Rico said and reached for the hat which he promptly plopped down on her head. “As much as I love your hair I’m going to have to hide it. I’m here to serve and protect, and sunburn is not an option.”
Asia had to smile when she heard him use what must be his favorite phrase. He’d found yet another thing that was ‘not an option’.
“And you need this.” He reached for the sunscreen and squeezed a dollop into his hand. Then, as casually as if he did this every day, he began to spread the lotion across her shoulders and upper back.
As his hands slid over her body Asia tried to relax. She really did. But how could she when, with each stroke of his hands, Rico was stoking the embers that had lain dormant down below. Within seconds his casual caress had those embers glowing, making her want to squirm. Jesus, if the man didn’t stop those embers would burst into flames and then she’d get moist, unable to control her body’s involuntary reaction to his expert touch.
“Uh, thanks, Rico,” she said as she shifted in her seat. She didn’t want to offend but she had to get away. “I think I’m good now.” She softened her flight with a smile.
“No problem,” he said with a shrug then proceeded to slather his neck and arms.
Thank God he hadn’t asked her to do that for him.
He settled back and started the engine. Then he put on his sunglasses and they were off.
They shot away from the shore and Asia squealed in delight. It was a new and thrilling experience for her, racing across the ocean in a high-speed boat. Instead of feeling frightened she felt exhilarated. Thank goodness she hadn’t denied herself this fun experience.
“It’s just a couple of hours away,” Rico yelled over the roar of the engine. “Just relax and enjoy the ride.”
And she did. After a few minutes on the water he cut the speed to a cruise and she leaned back in her seat to enjoy the refreshing breeze as it slapped against her face. Her nostrils filled with the salty sea air and tiny water droplets sprayed her face. In the heat of the sun it felt wonderful.
By the time Rico pointed to his island in the distance Asia was drunk from sun, sea and wind. She yawned, feeling more relaxed than she’d ever been, even with her therapeutic exercises. It felt so good to be far away from the bustling beehive that was Miami. While other people thought Miami a slow city it had always seemed busy to her. That was probably as a result of having grown up in a sleepy little town in southern Ontario. No matter, though. Today she’d be chilling on her own private island. Well, Rico’s island, but at least she’d be there to share it with him.
Rico reduced the throttle as they approached then they rode the gentle waves toward the shore.
Asia, captivated by the picture-perfect scenery, could only stare. It was like a postcard from paradise. The white sand of the beach glistened in the sunlight as if a million tiny diamonds had been scattered all along the shore. The translucent blue sea licked gently at the sandy beach, the water so clear that as it touched the sand it seemed to disappear. As the sea breeze blew inland, the coconut palms bordering the sand waved and bowed as if in greeting.
“Wow,” Asia whispered, never taking her eyes off the scene, “it’s beautiful.”
“Glad you like it,” Rico said. “Welcome to my own little island paradise. It’s where I go to get away from my world.”
Rico directed the boat toward a tiny dock then jumped out and secured it before turning to her. He reached out a hand to help her out of the boat. Gingerly, she stood up as the boat rocked gently in the water, then she put her hand in his and he pulled her toward him. She hadn’t expected such a powerful tug and she toppled forward, almost knocking him over.
Rico laughed and pulled her into him, crushing her against his strong, lean body. “Trying to knock me into the water, are you?” he growled playfully. “That calls for punishment.”
Asia’s head snapped up. “I wasn’t. I just tripped.”
That was as far as she got. Rico’s head descended, blocking out the rays of the sun, and then his mouth was on hers, punishing her with a sweetness that left her wanting more.
When he raised his head to look down at her she moaned. If this was the type of punishment he meted out for bad behavior she would have to misbehave more often.
He gave her a crooked smile. “Great way to start the day,” he said and then he let her go.
As he stepped away, Asia sighed. It had felt so good to be in his arms, even for those brief seconds. And that kiss. It had left her wanting more. But there was hope. He’d said a great way to start the day. Did that mean there was more to come? She could hardly wait to find out.
It was funny how the simple fact that Rico was no longer her client had made such a difference for her. Okay, she’d be the first to admit that she’d been attracted to him from day one. But still, there had always been that barrier, that one thing that stopped her from giving in to her desire.
But now? She dared not even think about it. She would have to tread very carefully. She wanted him and that was dangerous.
Rico had retrieved the picnic basket and a bottle of wine. He even had a rolled-up blanket tucked under his arm. “Come on,” he said with a jerk of his head. "Let’s go stake out our turf."
Asia giggled. “As if there's anybody else to fight with.”
“Well, you never know.” He cocked an eyebrow. “There may be some wild beasts who don’t appreciate our company.”
That brought Asia to a sudden halt. “Are there wild animals on the island?”
Rico looked amused at her sudden fright. He shook his head. “Don’t worry. The biggest beasts you’ll find are probably birds, turtles and conch.”
“Oh,” she said, feeling stupid. Of course he wouldn’t have taken her to an island with dangerous predators. She knew that.
Rico set off with his load, leaving Asia to follow. She had to practically run to catch up, his long strides giving him a distinct advantage. When she got close she pulled the blanket from under his arm. She could at least help him carry that one thing.
They set up camp in the shade of a low almond tree that had spread its arms far over the sand, creating an oasis of cool, crisp air. There they spread the blanket, using rocks to secure all four corners before the wind whipped it away.
Rico plopped down on their makeshift bed and reached out to drag the picnic basket toward him. “Snack time,” he yelled as he lifted the lid and began to offload its contents.
“But we just got here,” Asia protested. “I want to explore.”
“Sit,
woman,” Rico growled then he grinned up at her. “I’m starving. I’m not going anywhere until this beast is fed.” He rubbed his stomach and, as if on cue, it growled.
“You’re hungry already? But we just got here. It’s not even eleven o’clock.”
“Ten twenty-one, actually,” he said, glancing at his watch. “Perfect time for a snack.”
Asia could tell it was no use arguing. When she saw that Rico had already placed half the contents on the blanket and had even started munching on a bread roll she gave up the fight. He was obviously hungry and how could she blame him? He probably hadn’t even stopped growing yet.
She chuckled at that thought. Here she was acting like Rico was way younger than she, when they were actually the same age. Outside of the office environment though, she just couldn’t see him as twenty-five.
But after the meal Asia was left in no doubt that Rico was no boy but a mature and virile man with not an ounce of shyness about him.
They’d dined on crispy fried chicken with bread rolls and a salad then lounged on the blanket, drinking a light wine cooler. Rico had packed away the basket, saving the potato salad and half of the chicken for later. Then he’d told her he was ready for dessert. And it wasn’t the sweet and delicious kind.
She’d lain back on the ground - her stomach comfortably full, her eyes barely open as the hypnotic sound of the wind in the trees threatened to slide her into slumber - when she’d felt his closeness.
As she lifted her heavy eyelids he leaned over her, the red, green and gold of the leaves forming a colorful background behind him. He dipped his head but instead of aiming for her lips this time he went lower, nipping at her right nipple as it peaked in her halter top.
Asia gasped in shock and pleasure. He’d gone for that oh, so sensitive part and it left her panting. But he was just teasing, playing and it was driving her crazy. She wanted more.
Boldly, she raised one hand to cup the back of his head and with the other she lowered the top, exposing the turgid nipple to his gaze. “Suck on it,” she ordered.
His eyes went to hers and Asia could see his surprise at her demand. Then his lips curled in pleasure and he lowered his head to obey her command. He nuzzled the nipple then slipped it into his mouth and sucked softly and sweetly until she arched her back in ecstasy or agony. Asia couldn’t tell which. All she knew was that the caress of his tongue was turning her insides to lava.
Asia tightened her grip on Rico’s head and she pulled down on the other side of the blouse. Her other nipple was ready and eagerly awaiting attention. Gripping the back of his head with both her hands she pulled, none gently, until his face hovered over her breasts, his lips so close that his breath warmed her nipples. She pulled his head down and he opened his mouth to take the distended member into his mouth.
Asia groaned and threw her head back, transported to a place where all she could do was succumb to the waves of euphoria that washed over her. As he pinched and rolled her nipples with her lips and tongue she clung to him, pressing his face into her breasts, her hand a vise that ensured he could not move away if he tried.
Finally, her breasts soothed, she pulled his head away and applying pressure, she moved his face toward hers. He came willingly and immediately covered her lips with his.
But she wanted more. She wanted to dominate this man, make him understand that she was in charge. In all her interactions with him she’d been cool, she’d been calm, she’d been collected - the consummate professional. But now it was time to show Rico Megalos the real Asia Miller. She’d had enough of keeping the tigress inside her in check.
With their lips still joined Asia wrapped her arms around Rico and tilted her body, nudging him until he was forced to roll over onto his back. Then she was on top, taking control of the kiss. This time it was her tongue that probed his mouth, tasting then plundering with a passion that left them both panting.
“Mon Dieu, who are you?” Rico said between breaths as he stared up at her.
She slid her fingers through his hair and chuckled. “It’s still me, Rico, but now I can be free.” She looked away from him and out over the stretch of sandy beach. “Out here it’s just you, me and the island creatures. There’s no need to be politically correct. Here I can just be me.”
When she looked back at him a slow smile was spreading across his face. “I’m liking this new Asia Miller,” he said and raised his hand to slide his fingers into her hair. “So bold,” he whispered, “and so beautiful.” Then he cupped her head and pulled it down to give her a kiss so full of passion that all she could do was melt into him.
Then she pulled back, wanting to regain the upper hand. She had to diffuse his sexual tension, make him relax again so she could rule. She’d try humor. “So then I’ll say, so reckless,” and she gave him a peck on the cheek, “and so young.”
He laughed at that. “So we’re speaking soap opera now? Please, no. I don’t even watch those things.”
She put her lips close to his ear. “Maybe you should. You’d be surprised at what you could learn about love.”
Rico shook his head and gave her a fake frown. “Are you saying I’m not adequate in the love department? Are you insulting me, Mademoiselle Asia Miller?”
“Not at all,” she said, smiling down at him. “I’m just telling you, you have a lot to learn.”
“What?” He gave her a look of indignation then his face softened in a smile. “And are you going to be the one to teach me?”
“That depends.”
“On what?”
“On whether or not you can follow instructions. To the letter.” She gave him a mischievous smile and when he responded with a look of bewilderment she couldn’t help laughing.
“You know, you are such a-”
“Weirdo?” she asked, cutting him off.
“I was going to say, a mystery. I still can’t believe you’re the same Asia Miller I met that day back in August.”
“I know," she said with a teasing smile. “Weird, isn’t it?”
“No, not weird but…confusing.” He tilted his head as he looked up at her. "It’s as if, once the bun came down and you let your hair fall free, a totally new Asia was born.”
“Well,” she said, rolling off him, “the question is, do you like the new Asia.” She lay down beside Rico, closed her eyes, and drew in a deep breath of salty air. She almost didn’t want to hear his answer. What if he hated who she really was? What if he preferred the demure, unflappable Asia she’d projected for her professional world? She bit her lip and waited, not wanting to breathe till he’d given his verdict.
She felt him move beside her and knew that he’d shifted from his back and onto his side. He was staring down at her. She could feel it. And still she did not open her eyes.
“Asia,” he said quietly. “Look at me.”
Slowly she exhaled and opened one eye to peer up at him, then the other. She remained silent.
“I love the new Asia Miller,” he said. “This is the Asia I want.”
He’d said love. Okay, so he didn’t really mean love as in, ‘in love’. It was just a figure of speech but still, it had sounded darned good.
The tension in her dissolved and she gave him a wide smile. Then she began to giggle. She couldn’t help it.
He frowned down at her. “Now don’t tell me there’s a third Asia Miller in there somewhere, a can’t-stop-giggling one?”
“Oh, shut up,” she said and gave him a light punch on the arm. He’d already made her day and there was nothing he could say that would spoil it.
In fact, she’d even dare to say nothing could happen that day that could dampen her mood. Asia rolled away and hopped onto her feet. “Come on. Time to go explore the island."
“Yes, boss,” Rico said in a teasing tone then got up to stand by her. “I’ll be your tour guide,” he said with a flourish. “And now if you’ll just follow me.” They set off along the beach toward a tiny river that flowed into the sea. As they strolled along Rico poin
ted out various trees that lined the sand and told her their names. He was even able to identify many of the shrubs along the seacoast. Asia listened intently, surprised at his knowledge of the flora of the island.
They got to the river and Asia realized that it was really no more than a stream. They took off their sandals and waded barefoot through the water which was almost ice-cold.
“It’s bubbling from an underground spring,” Rico told her, “and that’s why it’s so cool.”
After crossing the stream they walked along the beach another twenty minutes or so then they turned onto a grassy path that led inland. "What if we get lost?” Asia asked as she stared at the mass of trees in the interior. “Do you know the island that well?”
“Crossed it at least a hundred times,” he said. “You’re safe with me, Asia. Didn’t I tell you you’re in good hands?”
“Uh, huh,” she said, still staring ahead and still not convinced they were totally safe. What if there were wild animals Rico hadn’t encountered before? What if they ran into quicksand? “Maybe we should go back now,” she said. “In fact,” she pointed to the sky, “it’s sort of gray right now. Maybe it’s going to rain?”
“Nonsense. I checked the weather report before we headed out this morning. Sunny skies all day.”
“Well, it's not sunny now,” she pointed out and made to turn back.
“So, after all that big talk about being in charge,” he scoffed, “Asia Miller is nothing but a chicken.”
“What did you say?” Asia turned on him.
“Chicken,” he said again and the laughter tumbled from his lips.
“We’ll see about that,” she said and headed up the path ahead of him. She’d shown him the other side of her so now he wasn’t expecting a wilting flower. She was supposed to be bold and fearless. So she would be. She’d go a little way in, not too far, just enough to show him she was no wimp.
Rico followed and soon overtook her on the path. He ended up leading the way, totally messing up her plan to lead them a short distance and then turn back. With him leading there was no telling how far inland he’d go.
