“I don’t know why I’m fighting it.”
“Oh!” Emma’s arms came down from around Mike’s neck and she flattened her hands against the countertop behind her. The action thrust her breasts more fully into his caressing palms. “That feels so good,” she whispered weakly.
“You like that?”
Their gazes locked as Emma slowly nodded.
His thumbs flicked across the hardened peaks of her breasts almost roughly.
“What about that?”
She nodded again, a half-smile of pleasure on her lips, quivering against him. Mike’s hands began to gently knead her. “And that?”
She shook her head yes, little mewling sounds escaping her parted lips.
Mike lowered his head and she sucked in her breath, fire engulfing her nipples as he moved his wet mouth over her, soaking her sweater.
“What about this?” Mike’s hands made quick work at raising her sweater until her breasts were bare before his gaze. He fastened his hot gaze on them for a few breathless seconds before lowering his head once more, this time taking her tempting flesh in his mouth and gently tugging on it.
“Yes!” Emma cried out, clutching him to her, as he loved her with his mouth. She would have fallen if she hadn’t clenched her hands into the robe he was wearing, laughing softly when the feel of satin in her fists reminded her it was her robe.
“I’ve never made a woman laugh while making love to her,” Mike said, moving back and forth between her breasts so he could love them both equally. “It’s a good thing I don’t offend easily.”
Emma’s throaty laugh sounded deep and sensual. “Believe me, it’s not your technique, Detective.” Her hands released the death grip she had on the robe, slipping inside to touch his bare chest. “I can’t get what you look like in my robe out of my head.” She lightly raked her nails across his nipples, getting the response she wanted when his big body shuddered.
Mike pulled back, his eyes smoldering with desire. “Then maybe it’s time to take it off.”
Chapter 17
Mike watched Emma’s pupils dilate, her eyes changing color with the intense emotions ruling her. All at once she turned cautious, obviously weighing her response. He couldn’t fault her for that. Hell, he half-hoped she’d say no and they could both come to their senses.
God knew he wasn’t strong enough to rein in his control and halt the madness overtaking them. He’d known for a long time that he wanted Emma and he was tired of denying it. What’s more he knew she wanted him too.
As the silence stretched between them he continued to caress her breasts with the palms of his hands, testing their weight and marveling at how smooth her flesh was. His body tightened even more when she slowly lowered her lids and purred like a satisfied kitten.
“Mike—”
Whatever Emma had been about to say was interrupted by the buzzer on the dryer. At first he didn’t know what it was until he remembered putting his wet clothes in and turning it on while she was in the bedroom. She jerked with surprise, the desire in her startled eyes clouding with confusion. It was obvious she didn’t know what was happening.
“The dryer,” he explained.
“Oh,” she said and chuckled softly, almost embarrassed.
Mike lowered her sweater and kissed the tip of her nose. “Saved by the bell, sweetheart.”
Emma’s slow reply came while she struggled to bring her breathing under control. “And exactly what am I saved from, Detective?”
Mike pulled back so he could meet her smiling eyes. “You want me to spell it out?” He leaned into her so she could feel his hard cock. “Right now I’d like nothing better than to lift you up on this counter and take you quick and hard.”
Emma’s soft laugh wasn’t what he was expecting. “Not that I don’t like the thought of being ravished in the kitchen by a big sexy detective, but I was thinking it might be from something deeper, with emotions attached.”
Mike detected the underlining of hurt in her tone. He forced himself to relax. “Mind explaining that?” Stepping back a few steps, he wanted to make sure there were no misunderstandings.
Emma glanced at him long and hard, as though sizing him up. After a moment she inhaled deeply, and plunged ahead. “There’s only one person in this room who doesn’t want to take things to the next level, Mike, and it isn’t me.”
Well, at least he knew where she stood. In addition, it was obvious she understood the turmoil and indecision he was battling.
“You’re not ready for a committed relationship.” He winced, realizing his comment didn’t make sense.
“No, you’re the one not ready,” she interrupted, running a nail down his chest where the robe parted.
The belt prevented her from going any further than his waist.
“Maybe I had qualms before, but I know what I want, Mike.”
Damn, he hadn’t stepped away far enough. He clenched his hands into a fist to keep from ripping the robe open and forcing her hand the rest of the way down to his erection. “Don’t say it.” Desperation bordered the mild threat in his tone.
Emma plowed on as though he hadn’t spoken. “I’ve already said it once, I want you.”
Her tone almost demanded he do something about it.
“You want forever after.”
“Did I say that?” She made an impatient sound. “But what if I do?”
“You’re that kind of woman,” he agreed.
“But you aren’t that kind of man? You must have been once.”
“This isn’t a joke, Emma. There’s no use beating around the bush; you know exactly why I don’t want to get emotionally involved with anyone right now. I have Melissa to think about.”
“Then why are you here, Detective? And how can you say we’re not involved after…after all the times we’ve made love? Are you telling me that you don’t feel anything when you’re fucking me?”
She had him, the little witch! Mike stepped away from her, the scowl on his face directed at himself because he hadn’t seen it coming. Emma had very neatly trapped him into a situation of his own making. He knew why he was there. And he was honest enough to admit to himself, at least, that it wasn’t just for her dynamite body.
He knew better than to keep putting temptation in his path, especially one as appealing as Emma. Yet something kept him from walking away. She was different from all the rest. She hadn’t disappeared once she found out about Melissa.
At that moment Mike wanted her more than he thought humanly possible. In spite of that he resisted the impulse to grab her and show her how much. How could he argue with her when she’d hit the nail square on the head?
He clenched his jaw when it dawned on him how intuitive she was, and practically jumped back when her finger began to wiggle beneath the belt of the robe. His involuntary action caused a ripple of laughter from her.
“Why, Detective, you’re not afraid of me, are you?” she teased in a beguiling manner that warmed his heart.
Hell yes, I’m afraid of what you make me feel.
Her eyes were overflowing with amusement, that soft mouth of hers a tempting invitation Mike knew he didn’t have the strength to resist. He took a deep breath, more to steady his nerves, then held his ground when she began to lean in closer.
“Do you know what I think?”
She looked dangerous. Mike held his breath.
“I think you’re lying to yourself if you don’t think we’re involved. And I think you’re scared to admit it. ”
“Emma,” he cautioned. But damn her, she kept right on coming and Mike had no alternative but to back up, which only produced more laughter, the throaty sound of her amusement running over him like warm honey on a hot bun. Secondly, the look on her face unnerved him. He wondered what she was up to.
A moment ago he’d been the one doing the pursuing; he’d been the one in control. He didn’t know if he liked the predatory gleam of determination in her eyes. His heart slammed against his ribs, forcing the blood throu
gh his veins like a river running out of control.
“You are afraid of me!” Emma breathed in a little whisper of amazement, backing him up against the refrigerator. “Are you terrified because little old me is right?”
She halted just inches away, but Mike could feel her breath on his bare chest. He could smell her arousal. The alluring scent of spicy heat teasing him, breaking down his senses until it made him want to say the hell with it and take what she was offering.
“Maybe I’m afraid of myself,” he offered, letting Emma entrap him by placing her hands against the refrigerator on either side of him. “You don’t know what you’re doing. I’m barely holding on by a thread.”
There was that sexy laugh of hers again, raking over him like a thousand hands, all of them softly arousing, touching him everywhere at once. Her eyes were soft and slightly glazed, the lids half-lowered. She wet her lips nearly causing him heart failure.
“Hmm, what do I have to do to break that thread?”
Her warm breath on his skin, then her moist lips did the trick. Mike groaned with weakness, his body shuddering when she ran her open mouth over him.
“Admit it, Detective. Admit that you feel just a little something for me.”
He let her have control for a minute, content to run with the feelings she evoked. Enjoying the rush of need that had never been fully extinguished. As her warm mouth moved lower he came to his senses. He dropped his hands to her shoulders and forced her up.
“I think you’ve effectively broken that thread. I’m torn between having my way with you in front of the fire or walking away while I still can.” He sucked in air to fill his empty lungs.
“I would never let you walk away,” she teased, fingering the material covering his shoulders. “Especially wearing my favorite satin robe.”
A reluctant grin twitched on his lips. “And how would you stop me?”
“Oh, there’s ways, Detective. Unfortunately I don’t have enough bad girl experience to pull off anything, ah, mind-blowing.”
“Don’t underestimate yourself, sweetheart. What you were doing just a moment ago nearly drove me to my knees.” His heart was still beating like a jackhammer pounding pavement. “Without half-trying you turn this big, strong man into a mountain of jelly.”
Emma’s pleased look went straight to Mike’s heart. She opened her mouth to say something but the sound of a key being inserted into the front door lock held her temporarily speechless. Mike tensed for a second until he realized if someone were breaking in they’d hardly be using a key.
Emma whipped her head around to glance at the antique clock on the mantle above the fireplace. “Four thirty, how can that be? The clock in my bedroom said two thirty.”
Mike’s gaze followed hers as she began looking around the kitchen, her gaze landing on the various appliances. The blinking lights indicated the power had apparently gone out at some time during the onset of the storm, and before they’d returned. Something they hadn’t noticed before now.
Realization of what happened crossed their minds at the same time and their gazes collided. Whoever was at the door had finally unlocked it and was turning the knob.
“It’s Amanda and Troy,” Emma explained in a panicked whisper, stepping away from him. “They’re here for a movie and dinner.” She quickly moved to the counter and opened the picnic basket, her movements slightly capricious as she began to unpack it.
“Good idea,” he said in reference to her unpacking the basket. “And maybe it’s a good time to check the status of my clothes.”
* * * *
“Best peanut butter and jelly sandwiches I’ve had in a long time,” Troy quipped after devouring a third one without any problem. His expression resembled that of a satisfied ten-year-old as he rubbed his belly, giving Amanda a playful wink. “Add peanut butter to our shopping list, sweetie.”
“For sure.” She rolled her eyes as if saying over her dead body.
They’d decided to spread a blanket in front of the fire and the four of them were sitting cross-legged, facing one another while eating off paper plates. Emma could still recall the startled, yet pleased look on her sister’s face when she’d opened the door to see Mike quickly disappearing into the laundry room. She hadn’t even tried to hide the look of triumph she tossed Troy as he stepped in behind her.
“I’m glad you weren’t disappointed that it wasn’t the lasagna I’d promised.” Emma smiled, munching on a pickle. “It would have been a shame to waste a good picnic lunch.”
Her gaze went to Mike, who was sitting across from her, and watching her quietly. He’d barely said two words in the hour since Troy and Amanda had let themselves in.
“What about you, Mike? Is peanut butter your style?” she teased.
“It does bring back memories.” He grinned crookedly. “But I can’t recall ever drinking a beer with one. Mom usually served it with milk.”
The heat of the fire was nothing compared to the warmth Emma felt inside when Mike’s gaze moved over her lazily. “It was beer or orange juice.”
Her interest dropped to his damp shirt and even damper jeans. She was surprised when he’d emerged from the laundry room fully dressed when it was apparent his clothes were still wet. She guessed the fear of being seen in her robe far outweighed any discomfort or teasing he’d suffer in the long run.
“What’s on the agenda for the rest of the evening?” Amanda asked, settling back against Troy, who wrapped his arms around her midriff naturally. “Unless you and Mike planned on going night fishing?”
No sooner were the words out of her mouth than the windows vibrated with another crash of thunder. The storm hadn’t let up one bit since their mad dash from the boat, and the power had flickered off and on more than once. “I think we can safely rule that out.” Emma began gathering up the empty paper plates.
“I’m afraid I’m going to have to eat and run.” All eyes turned to Mike but Emma was the one he made direct eye contact with. It was clear he didn’t want to leave. “It will be dark soon, and I don’t like leaving Melissa home alone,” he explained.
Revealing he was a concerned and caring father was a quality that only endeared Mike to Emma even more. There was a lot about him that appealed to her. Yet right now she was trying not to show her disappointment, covering it with a carelessly tossed remark. “Oh, for a minute there I was afraid it was something I did.”
He made a negative gesture with a shake of his head. “Good food, good beer, good music.” He hesitated for a moment, staring at Emma until she was sure everyone in the room saw the heat creeping up her neck. “And very good company,” he finished in a low voice.
She knew she was blushing like a silly schoolgirl but didn’t care. “I aim to please,” she tossed back.
“Well, while you two are saying goodbye, we’ll go pick out a movie to watch,” Amanda cut in, motioning for Troy to follow her when she got to her feet. However, Troy was so focused on the exchange between Emma and Mike that she had to shout his name to get his attention. “Troy!”
“What?” he inquired with confusion. Apparently the look on Amanda’s face got through to him and he rushed to his feet, offering Emma and Mike a sheepish look as he left the room with her.
Emma’s soft chuckle filled the room. She turned back to Mike, who as far as she could tell hadn’t taken his eyes off her. “The day didn’t exactly turn out as we planned.” She blushed, realizing how that could be interpreted. “What I mean is, the rain—”
“I know what you mean,” he interrupted. “And I’m not complaining about the rain.”
His eyes crinkled with humor, warming Emma even more. Goodness at this rate she would have to put out the fire in the hearth!
“There’s a policeman’s dance Thursday night. Something the mayor puts on every year as appreciation for the rest of us making him look good. Got anything in your closet that will go with a purple eye?”
Her gentle laugh rippled through the air, her gaze settling on the eye in quest
ion. The discoloration was almost gone now, appearing more like a dark shadow from lack of sleep. She decided not to question the invitation or his taking it for granted that she would go with him. Emma wanted to be with Mike, sensing their relationship had progressed beyond those polite little necessities. If she could only make him admit it.
“I think I can come up with something suitable.”
“Good. I’ll pick you up at seven.” He turned to leave.
Her eyes rounded with mild disbelief. “Aren’t you going to kiss me goodnight?”
She watched him stiffen, his hand on the doorknob. Her soft words lingered in the air between them. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” His voice was uncompromising yet oddly gentle.
“Why?” Her silky voice held a challenge. “Not even a little peck on the cheek?” she teased, her eyes moving over the width of his shoulders, looking for a sign that he was going to relent.
The only part of Mike that moved was his head when he turned to look at Emma over his shoulder. “I don’t believe in little pecks unless you’re a relative. The next time I kiss you, lady, it won’t be goodnight.”
His words fueled Emma’s curiosity and desire, yet there was nothing she could do about it now. Not with Amanda and Troy waiting for her in the living room. Deciding it wouldn’t be fair to either of them by pursuing his comment she remained quiet, watching him open the door and disappear into the downpour.
With a wistful sigh she watched as he sprinted to his truck. Once inside he glanced up and for a moment their gazes met and held. Her heart constricted and the truth hit Emma at that precise instant.
She was head over heels in love with Mike Denton.
Chapter 18
As it turned out Emma didn’t have anything in her closet suitable to wear to the dance, much less anything that came close to matching the color surrounding Mike’s eye. However a quick trip to a little boutique specializing in attire for after hours, with Amanda in tow, quickly took care of that.
PASSIONATE ENCOUNTERS Page 16
