And that translates to me being a sweet guy? I don’t think so. “I’m not sure, but I’m glad I came and saw it for myself. I never would’ve believed it otherwise. But as Alex and Ziva said, what they shared with us at dinner can never be shared with others.” That had been meant for Brooke, not for Gareth. He knew almost everything that had already been said. He still didn’t understand why Alex and Ziva would risk sharing that information in the first place.
They trust her. And for some reason, so do I.
“You don’t have to worry; the secrets are safe with me. Even though I can’t help now, I hope I can do something later.”
He wasn’t sure how she planned on doing that, but she was a hard worker. The Hendersons didn’t need financial support, but they wouldn’t turn it away either, no matter how small it might be. From what he’d learned about Brooke, she’d make it happen if she wanted to. “I’m sure they would appreciate anything you do. You know how to reach them when you’re ready.”
“Thanks to you. If you hadn’t taken me with you to their home, I would still be ignorant to what New Hope is all about.”
Brooke didn’t know one-tenth of what New Hope represented to the Hendersons or why. But it was better that way. If she thought reading Alex’s book gave her nightmares, the reality of what had happened in Tabiq would destroy her spirit. That sparkle in her eyes would be no more. He couldn’t bear to think of that happening.
“Well, this is not the Henderson residence, but I hope you enjoy it anyway.” They came to an inn that was more like a bed and breakfast. It definitely was a home. He could tell by the look on Brooke’s face that she was pleased.
“This looks . . . inviting,” she said, beaming brightly.
“Then let’s go inside.” Once inside they were greeted by a woman who didn’t look at all like Alex, thankfully. “Hello. I’m Gareth Lawson and this is Brooke.” He intentionally left off her last name. Not that he cared what the woman might think, but he cared what anyone thought about Brooke. “I believe you were expecting us.”
She smiled. “My son told me some very special friends were coming to stay here for a few days. Welcome. My home is your home. Let me show you to your room.”
When they entered, Gareth knew that Alex had redone her home; most things were modern on the inside, yet still very modest on the outside. That was wise. A woman such as herself living alone could easily become a victim to theft. But knowing Alex, she wasn’t defenseless.
“You have a lovely home,” Brooke said. “And our room is exquisite.”
“I’m so glad you’re pleased. Now go and freshen up. Your dinner will be awaiting you on the balcony. If you need anything at all, please ring the bell and I will come. Otherwise, I shall give you your privacy.”
Once alone in the room, Gareth turned to Brooke. I’m glad you like the place.”
Brooke stepped closer and whispered, “Do you know what I like about it most of all?” He shook his head. “I’m here with you.”
Gareth wrapped an arm around her waist and said, “Are you trying to distract me so we don’t eat dinner again tonight? Because I’ve been trying to get this right from the first time I asked you.”
Brooke said, “If I didn’t think Alex would have our heads, I’d say let’s start with dessert.”
He could feel the blood pumping through his veins, and there was no way he could hide his desire for her. Resisting the urge to taste those sweet lips of hers, he said, “I promise never to invite you to dinner again.”
She chuckled. “Sounds good. Now let’s head to that balcony before we change our minds.”
It wouldn’t take much on his part, but Alex’s mother had put a lot of effort into their meal and not eating would be very disrespectful. He wouldn’t tolerate that treatment of his mother, and would never do it to someone else’s.
Damn. I am soft.
When they arrived on the balcony, it was more than he’d asked for. Candles were lit everywhere, soft music played in the background, and the scent of fresh gardenias filled the night air.
“Oh Gareth, this is . . .” Brooke picked up one of the flowers and inhaled the scent. “I can’t believe you did this.”
With a lot of help. A whole lot. “I had a lot to make up for.”
“No, you didn’t. Actually I believe I cancelled on you as well.”
He handed her a glass and said, “To new beginnings.”
She took the glass and replied, “To new beginnings.”
But when he took a sip, she didn’t. “Is everything okay?”
Brooke nodded. “I don’t drink.”
Gareth smiled down at her. “I noticed that at the lounge. This is homemade ginger ale infused with fresh strawberries.” It was one of the few requests he had made.
Her eyes watered, and he hoped that meant she was happy. Brooke raised her glass and said, “To thoughtfulness. May it never go out of style.”
Gareth took another sip but he really wanted to taste it on her. “Let’s eat before it gets cold.” And before I can’t think any more.
They spent the next hour actually enjoying not just the food, but getting to know each other better. It amazed him the places Brooke had traveled. She really was an adventurous one. But she wasn’t wild or spontaneous. Each place had been carefully thought through. Just by listening to her, he knew she was brilliant.
“Your parents must be very proud of you,” he said.
“I’d like to think so. They are loving and supportive of my choices, but proud, I’m not sure. I think they secretly hope someday I’ll settle down and stay in one place. I’m sure you feel a similar vibe from your parents as well.”
Gareth laughed. “My mother, yes. My father is a different story. He strictly thinks in terms of what would bring the company more success.”
“That’s horrible. There is so much more to life than money. If I wanted money, I’d stay home instead of living my dream.”
“What would you be doing at home? An office job? I’m sure they pay more than a waitress makes.”
“I’m not sure what I’d do. Actually I think I’d be bored silly. Imagine going to the same job every day for years. I couldn’t do it.” She huffed. “I know it sounds childish, but there is so much beauty in this world, and I want to see and learn all about it. Every place has its own culture, good and bad, but when I leave, I hope I have taken the best part if it back home with me.”
“That explains why you’re such an extraordinary woman,” Gareth said with sincerity. He noticed her cheeks pinken.
“Do you know you’re the only person who can make me blush?”
He cocked a brow. “Really? Why is that?”
Brooke shook her head. “I wish I knew. I’m not sure if it’s what you say, how you say it, or maybe . . .”
“How I make you feel?” he asked. She nodded. “Brooke, I hadn’t talked to you about it when I made the arrangements.”
“What are you worried about, Gareth? Everything has been perfect,” she said, looking puzzled.
It really was. Never before had he enjoyed the company of a woman when it didn’t involve sex. He’d done everything he could to make tonight special, but was it enough? Should he ask for a second room? Should he sleep on the floor? It was presumptuous of him to assume she wanted to share a bed with him. All the indications said yes, but . . .
“Gareth, is something wrong?” Brooke asked.
He reached over and stroked her hand with his. “You’re right. Everything has been perfect.” I just don’t want to screw it up. “I know we have one room, but if you’re not ready, changed your mind, or if I misread this, tell me. We don’t have to do anything you don’t want to.”
Brooke smiled. “Gareth, I knew exactly what you were inviting me for. If I didn’t want to, I wouldn’t be here. Or have you forgotten, I’m the one who invited you to my room last night for dinner. Granted, it didn’t work out, but tonight is a new night.”
“Then what do you say we call it a night and finis
h this discussion upstairs?”
“I thought you’d never ask,” Brooke said, leaning over to kiss him briefly.
I don’t want to love you. But damn, Brooke, you’re making it difficult.
Gareth’s pulse raced, and his cock ached to break free from the confines of his jeans. He’d fought the urge to pull her into his arms all through dinner. Every part of her seemed to tease him: her eyes, her smile, and that damn cute laugh.
Never had he wanted anyone as much as he wanted Brooke. It actually had caused him physical pain to hold back. But he didn’t care if it was an hour, a day, or a year, he’d respect her decision. Even though he wanted her, he also respected her.
But as they made their way back up the winding staircase, he wanted to scoop her up into his arms and carry her into the bedroom. He had only a sample of the passion living deep within her. I want it all. He wanted to submit to the overwhelming need building in him, but instead he guided her to their room.
When they entered, it was different than before. The fresh gardenias that were scattered all over the balcony were also in the bedroom, along with more candles. He couldn’t have planned a more romantic setting if he’d tried. Although he wanted to see if she noticed, the hard bulge pressing against his zipper didn’t care about flowers, or anything else. I need to taste more than just those sweet lips of yours and I need to now.
“Gareth, it’s beautiful, but I . . . I . . .” Her lips opened, as her tongue darted out, and he felt like a man drowning. “There’s nothing more beautiful than looking at you.”
Did she know the torture she was putting him through? Did she ache for him like he did for her? Fuck it! There was one way to find out.
He moaned, knowing he couldn’t hold back any longer. As his lips met hers, everything within him ignited. Brooke’s hunger couldn’t be denied as she met him with equal intensity. She opened to him, and his tongue eagerly tasted what she had to offer. Their tongues danced, sucking and nipping each other. Both gasping to catch their breath, neither willing to break their connection.
God, this was crazy. He couldn’t get enough of her. Gareth wanted to tell her how beautiful she was, how good she felt and tasted. But the words wouldn’t come as he was wrapped in a whirlwind of need.
Brooke’s hand ran down his chest and rested on either side of the waist of his jeans, her fingers gently slipping inside. It wasn’t raw passion or desire. It was letting him know it was okay, that this was what she wanted. Breaking their kiss, he looked into her eyes. The yearning was all he needed to erase any hesitation remaining within him. “I want you, Brooke,” he muttered in a deep husky voice.
“I want you too, Gareth,” she said softly, never breaking eye contact.
Gareth touched her cheek with the back of his hand, and she leaned into his touch. She didn’t want it to stop either, which was good, because he couldn’t imagine pulling away now. Gareth wanted to tell her all the reasons this was a bad idea. That they only had the here and now. That he’d be leaving for New York in two days. They might not see each other again. He couldn’t offer what she deserved. But he couldn’t bring himself to utter the words.
“If you’re not totally sure about this, I suggest we stop now.” Once he started this, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to stop.
Brooke licked her lips while looking at his. “I’m not teasing, Gareth. I want you so bad that it hurts. Now kiss me already,” she said breathlessly.
Claiming her lips, he parted them with his tongue. If he thought his desire for her in that sexy black dress had been powerful, it didn’t come close to what he felt now. It wasn’t what she was wearing, but how bold and confident she was. He was giving, but she was taking. His tongue darted into her mouth and she sucked gently on it and then hers entered his, wanting the same. Damn woman, you can kiss.
The way she played with him with just her tongue, he could only imagine what that tongue would feel like stroking his cock. But as damn hot and horny as he was right now, his body couldn’t handle her lips wrapped around him, licking and sucking. It would be over before he got started.
Tempting as it was, he resisted. Gareth needed to make sure she was taken care of before he was. If it took all night, he’d make sure she was satisfied, hopefully more than once. He wanted to do his own exploration with his mouth, but right now, they were both overdressed for it.
“I want to show you how beautiful you are.”
As they stood by the full-sized bed, it felt tiny and cramped, but they didn’t need more room, only less clothes. Their eyes never left each other as they quickly removed their clothes; shirts and pants flung in one direction, undergarments in another. Her bra landed on the lamp. He almost walked over and took it off, not wanting it to burn, but the fire between them was already roaring.
He looked at her breasts, full and perky, waiting for his attention. Gareth was eager to give it. He lifted Brooke into his arms and placed her in the center of the bed. Then he joined her, covering her body with his. Her taut pink nipples begged him to take them into his mouth. Lowering his head, he kissed, tugged, and nipped the first one. Her moans filled the air as she arched her back for more.
His tongue twirled around her nipple before he sucked again. As she moaned, he moved to the next and continued his assault.
“Gareth, please . . .”
He ignored her pleas. Brooke reached up and tangled her fingers in his hair, trying to pull him up. He knew what she wanted, but she’d need to wait. He wasn’t rushing this. Like dinner, he wanted this to be . . . perfect. More than perfect. He wanted it to be something neither would ever forget.
His mouth slowly made its way up from her breast to her neck, and then back down between her two perfect peaks. She groaned, tugging at him once again, this time more firmly. “Gareth, I want . . . I . . . need . . .” followed by an even deeper moan.
“Soon, sweetheart.”
She was making it difficult to refuse her request. “Gareth, please.” She gripped his arms, her nails digging into him.
He continued to flick with his tongue or nip with his teeth. His mouth inched lower, crossing over her abdomen as he continued his decent.
“Your body is so cool, until I touch it. And I’m going to touch you . . . everywhere,” Gareth warned.
“Gareth,” she moaned, arching against him.
“You feel so good in my arms.”
“But I want to . . . feel you . . . taste . . . you,” she moaned.
“Trust me. You’ll have me, all of me.” His words were muffled by her flesh. “But not until I have you first.”
Brooke’s moans echoed through the room, and he knew her need was building. Her hips wiggled, and she parted her legs trying to get them to wrap around his waist. “Please, I need . . .”
Gareth needed to address her need. He reached between her legs, his fingers finding her swollen clit. The instant he stroked her, he felt her shudder, and she opened farther for him.
He slowly circled it, bringing her higher.
“I . . . I . . . oh . . .” She responded softly in half moans.
Her body trembled as he repositioned himself, bringing his mouth only inches from her core. “You taste like heaven,” he said, blowing on her intimately. An animalist growl echoed through the room, and she opened farther until he had full access.
Gareth slipped one finger inside her and pulled it back out. Then again and again. Brooke gripped the sheets as the building rhythm continued. His finger entered her again, and with his thumb he continued to circle her clit.
Now his own moans joined hers as he nipped her inner thigh and said, “I want to lick and suck you until you don’t know your name.”
She moaned, “Gareth.”
He replaced his thumb with his lips, and she felt her body ignite and grow warmer. Oh, yes. His tongue darted out and licked again and again. He circled her clit, teasing her, then he sucked, enjoying the feel of her trembling legs as she was on the brink of losing control. He knew how to please a woman,
but never had anyone been so responsive to his touch. It enhanced his need even more. She was so close to the edge, and he wanted to feel her explode around his fingers. Entering her deeply, he fingered her G-spot, stroking it firmly and quickly, while continuing to lick and suck her clit.
Her body went ridged, and her moans were almost whimpers of pleasure.
Gareth increased his onslaught and entered her faster and deeper with his finger until he felt her body jerk and her core clench around his fingers.
“Yes! Gareth. Oh, yes!”
As she lay panting, her body still reeling in the delights of her climax, he leaped from the bed, grabbed a foil pack from his wallet, and sheathed himself. Gareth returned to the bed, covering her body with his. Positioning himself between her legs, he lifted her hips toward him. The tip of his cock stroked her wet folds. As it touched her clit he watched her shudder again.
“Sweet Brooke, I need to be inside of you,” he said.
“Oh, Gareth, I can’t wait . . . any longer,” she gasped then moaned.
His cock was so hard from holding back, it throbbed and ached. The look in her eyes sent him over the edge. It would be so easy to thrust deeply, but he didn’t want to hurt her. Slowly he entered her, letting her get used to the feel of him.
She opened her legs, giving him access to enter deeper. Gareth’s body demanded to move. He moved faster and deeper, his rhythm taking on a force of its own. “Oh God, you feel so fucking good.”
“Yes. Harder . . .” she cried out. Brooke clung to him, her nails digging into his arms as her body shook, and the spasms of her orgasm gripped him like a vise.
Fuck! He couldn’t hold back any longer. He continued to thrust into her as his body exploded into an orgasmic abyss. It was so powerful he could barely hold himself above her as his body trembled. Fuck. Yes.
There was nothing left, he couldn’t hold himself up a moment longer and collapsed on top of her, his body tingling like never before. “What . . . the . . . hell . . . was that?”
The Billionaire's Scandal (The Blank Check Series Book 3) Page 11
