Invitation to Love

by Lee, Groovy

  “Michael,” she slid back in her seat. “This producer friend of yours must be very popular. I’ve never been to a party this big.”

  “Hollywood parties are always this big,” he laughed.

  “This movie of his must be something. I can’t wait to see it. What’s it about?”

  “It’s a suspense about a blind serial killer who happens to look like Prince.”

  “Does Prince know that?”

  “Yeah. He’s probably here cashing in on the publicity.”

  When the limousine finally pulled up to the entrance of the hotel and stopped, her heart began pumping.

  Michael took hold of her hand and whispered close to her, “Get ready, Taryn, you’re about to make headlines.”

  She soon realized the significance of his words as they emerged from the car to multitudes of screaming and cheering fans roped off to the sides; Cameras flashed continuously in her face. Her fingers tightened around his hand as they proceeded toward the entrance. She reminded herself to act as if she goes to these things regularly, and to keep that smile bright.

  “Michael, Access Hollywood,” the petite, dark-haired journalist waved to them from her spot along the carpet.

  The cameraman behind her aimed his lenses at them. Taryn’s eyes widened from the realization that she was actually face to face with a star reporter of one of her sister’s favorite shows. Nora will certainly see this when it airs, so she waved the I-love-you sign.

  “Hello, Shaun,” Michael smiled graciously.

  “This must be the new bride we’ve been hearing so much about,” she greeted a very petrified Taryn. “Well, I guess now that you’ve settle down, this puts you in a whole new light, doesn’t it?”

  “There’s nothing new about it, Shaun. It just proves that you can’t always believe what you read.”

  “Amen to that. And, how are you and your children adjusting to your life here, Mrs. Vande-xx?”

  Taryn had to will herself from her frightened coma and respond into the microphone held out to her. “Everything’s wonderful, thanks.”

  “And, is Michael as exciting a man as he seems?”

  “Exciting doesn’t even begin to describe him, and that’s coming from experience.” She was a bit embarrassed at how easily that flowed from her.

  “Well, I guess that says it all. Thank you, Michael, Mrs. Vande-xx, and enjoy the gala. You heard it here, folks,” the reporter’s voice trailed off as they headed off with the camera still on them.

  As they moved forward, it was E.T.’s turn to investigate the new Mrs. After that, it was Mario Lopez from Extra who welcomed her to L.A., asking pretty much the same questions. As he held the microphone toward Michael, listening to his replies, she couldn’t help noticing those dimples she and Nora used to swoon over. (They’re just as beautiful in person) She cast an impish glance into the camera, pointed at him, and wowed for Nora’s sake. And, when Mario touched her arm and wished her a fun evening, she thought for sure her knees were going to buckle, giving opportunity to all those cameras as she lay straddled on the red carpet with the sound of digital clicking surrounding her. But, she held her composure.

  Once they were inside, Michael held her hand to his mouth and kissed it. “You were great.”

  “I hope I said all the right things.”

  “Halle Berry couldn’t have said it better.”

  His praise of her meant she was doing everything right, and that lessened her stress level. (Here’s hoping the rest of the night goes as smoothly) They pressed through the crowds that were standing and conversing in the lobby, to the banquet room.

  “We have a table here somewhere,” he said as they stood at the top of the stairs and searched over the mass of expensive scents and even more expensive evening wear.

  Taryn just couldn’t subdue the wide-eyed tourist expression on her face. After all, she’s here, mingling in the midst of Hollywood; A–list actors and actresses here to celebrate a friend’s success. Nora will just die. They stepped down into the crowd as Michael continued to search for their table.

  “Michael,” she wiggled the arm she was holding on to. “Isn’t that—that’s Patti LaBelle.”

  “Striking, isn’t she? She sung the musical score. I’ll introduce you later.”

  “Keifer Sutherland just passed us,” she practically wrinkled his coat sleeve.

  “He made a small appearance in the movie,” he laughed. “We’d better find you a seat before you faint.”

  “Michael,” Raven, dawning a silver low-cut gown and platinum-blonde wig, materialized from out of the crowd with David close behind. “You’re finally here.” She tip-toed and kissed him on one cheek.

  Taryn had already decided she would keep an armor of steel up when it came to her. She’s not about to ruin her once-in-a-lifetime evening.

  “You’re sitting with us, but first, there’s some people you simply must meet,” she pulled for him to follow. “We’ll only be a minute, Taryn,” she added, as if she just noticed her. “David can show you to the table. Can’t you, David?”

  “I’d love to.”

  “I won’t be long,” Michael assured her as he released her hand.

  “They’re dancing in the Rainbow room,” David took her arm and folded it around his. “Want to go?”

  “Sure, why not?” she replied, feeling crushed as she watched Michael fade into the crowd with Raven attached.

  David guided her to the room next door where people were dancing to one of the upbeat tunes from the movie. She looked around her, still amazed by it all. But in time, anxiousness surrendered to fun as David circled her about and guided her through the latest steps. The last time she danced this much was at her prom. Oh—my—God, she wanted to scream, her mouth dropping open. Brad Pitt just bumped into her, and all she could do was stand there in a stupor as he offered a genuine apology.

  Nora is going to need medical attention when she hears of it. By the time the music ended, she was full of excitement and out of breath.

  “Having fun?” David had to shout to be heard.

  “Yes,” she yelled back.

  The thundering of voices simmered to muffled babble as a Luther Vandross ballad began to play.

  “Ready to take another turn?” he asked, and she nodded.

  She felt somewhat uneasy by the familiar closeness as they swayed, but decided it was appropriate since the room was jammed wall to wall.

  “Thank, David,” she said when the tune ended.

  “Do you want something to drink?” he asked, then looked passed her when a familiar figure appeared. “Michael.”

  She was not at all surprised when she turned around to see Raven still at his side. She prayed silently for strength and fixed a smile to her face.

  “I thought you were going to wait for me,” came the accusatory statement.

  “We decided to dance for a while,” David answered for her.

  Michael took her hand. “Come on, there’s some people I want you to meet. Thanks for taking care of my wife, David; I’m sure you won’t mind escorting Raven around, now.”

  Taryn barely had time to thank him before Michael ushered her away. Though it pleased her to see the scowl pasted on Raven’s face, she felt embarrassed by Michael’s gruff treatment of David. After all, he was only being kind to her; He should have shaken his hand. Besides, after having to sit through an entire evening of Raven’s attention-getting antics, she realized she should have been the one to feel put-off. And of course, there was no doubt who to thank for the seating arrangement. What a surprise to see Michael’s chair next to hers, while she’s in between Chris and David. A few more breaths for strength, and a chilled glass of champagne, were just the remedy she needed. Let her hang all over him and laugh close to his face. Why should she care? Especially, since it’s obviously not bothering him.

  She decided to empty her mind of all the negativity and concentrate on the night. Chris’ date was more than willing to chat. And despite the cool eye from Michael, she
allowed David to take her for a whirl on the dance floor again. The party quieted down for the hour it took to recognize the cinematic genius of Hal Conners, and for him to deliver his speech of gratitude and thanks to everyone involved. After a banquet dinner, the hoopla started up again.

  “Come on, Taryn,” David leaned close to her. “Dance with me one last time.”

  She was wasted, but was for anything that separated her from the theatrics of those two. A few glances across the table was the only attention Michael showed her the entire night, until Raven dominated it again. But, when she stood to walk away with David, it seemed that all of a sudden, she was worth noticing.

  Of course, she pretended to be having too much fun to care about that look of disapproval etched across his features.

  “We’re coming, too,” Chris and his date stood.

  When the first upbeat melody ended, Chris and David switched partners. Taryn was grateful for the mellow song that followed, her feet were throbbing from all the twisting and turning.

  “Are you tired?” David asked once he reclaimed her for the last song.

  “Exhausted,” she sighed.

  “How do you like your first Hollywood party?”

  “It’s like I always imagined—fascinating.”

  “I like the way your eyes light up that way.”

  She looked away, but her uneasiness was quickly obliterated by the appearance of Michael approaching.

  “Cutting in,” he tapped David on the shoulder.

  He respectfully relinquished her to him.

  “You don’t mind if I dance with my wife, do you, Taryn?” There was no mistaking that bite in his tone.

  A starchy smile was her only reply. He’s been dismissive all night. Why is dancing with her so important now?

  Her body stiffened when his arm slid around her waist and pressed her against his hard frame. It took every tranquil nerve she had left to keep in step and not trip. It dawned on her as they swayed, that this is the first time since they’ve been married that he’s held her like this—so close, so intimate. The feel of his masculine body, and his strong cheek touching hers, held her captivated from the amazing surge of pleasure it caused. His hand made a light stroke up and down her back causing her to stumble. He loosened his hold and caught her reluctant gaze. The apology she meant to offer stuck in her throat. One corner of his mouth lifted wickedly before he leaned in and claimed her hard with a kiss. When he ended it, all she could do was will her legs to stop shaking and keep a steady head. By the time they returned to the table, everyone was standing and saying their good-byes.

  She embraced the restrained silence governing their ride home in the back of the limousine. He sat in the dark interior like stone, but she didn’t care; Talking is the last thing on her mind.

  When they arrived home, Mrs. Castleberry informed them that the girls were a joy to watch, and after beating her in all the board games, were now sound asleep. Taryn thanked her, and Michael accompanied her to her car. Although she was still upset, Taryn politely turned out all the lights in the house and waited for him at the bottom of the stairs. When he came back in and locked the door, she mentioned she had taken care of the securing the rest of the house. He thanked her, and they mounted the stairs together.

  “Good-night,” she murmured after that long silent walk to her door. “I enjoyed myself immensely.”

  “I could tell,” he replied minus the smile.

  That was her cue to escape to her room. He’s clearly still in a mood, and she’s not about to prolong it. “Good-night,” she said once more and turned to hurry inside.

  “Don’t I get a good-night kiss, too?”

  She froze from that stinging question, then turned to face the austere face before her. “What do you mean by—too?”

  “As if you don’t know,” his gaze practically seared through her. “Was it my imagination, or was David all over you tonight? I’m sure he must have stolen a kiss at one point throughout the evening.”

  That offensive accusation had her mouth dropping open, but just as quickly she shut it. So, he’s in a knot because David was more of a date than he was. (And did he just accuse her of being unfaithful?) If it wasn’t for the fact that she’s completely worn out, and too tired to think, she’d promptly remind him of who was more unfaithful this evening.

  “Not that I owe you an explanation,” she stressed. “But, David was the perfect gentleman.”

  “Is that what you call it?”

  “I’m not going to argue with you, Michael. Believe what you want, I’m tired. I want to go to bed.” With that, she wheeled around and marched into her room. When he followed her in, she turned on his imposing figure. “I don’t want to talk about this.”

  “Then I will,” he countered firmly. I watched the two of you tonight. You danced like lovers. And, when you weren’t dancing, you had your heads together in cozy conversation and laughter. Surely, his jokes weren’t that funny.”

  “David was only doing what you should have. But, you were so caught up in Raven, you forgot I was there. If it weren’t for David, I would have spent the entire evening by myself.” She snapped the silver buckles of her heels and kicked them toward the closet. “For a moment there, I thought you were going to elope.”

  “You’re pretty when you’re angry,” he seemed angrily amused. “I guess you aren’t completely detached after all.”

  “Get out,” she pointed a finger at the door, hurt by that unwarranted, but familiar description of her. “I’m tired, and you’re going to wake the girls.”

  “Not yet, Taryn,” he lowered his harsh tone to a sultry whisper. “Not when I know you’re capable of some feelings. I want to see what else you can feel.”

  He strolled over to her. One hand lifted and his fingers traced a satiny stroke down the side of her face. A suddenly breathless Taryn brushed it away and hurried to stand by the other side of the bed.

  “Don’t,” she warned, her hands gripping tightly to a carved bed-post.

  “Michael, please, don’t,” he was walking toward her. “That’s been your national anthem since the day we married. It seems you’ve given David free reign over you, but I can’t even get within two feet without you going into shock.”

  “You’re disgusting. I can say the same thing about you and Raven.”

  “At least she’s willing.”

  “Well, since she’s so willing, why didn’t you go home with her?”

  “Strong words, Taryn, but I doubt if you mean them.”

  He slipped his evening jacket from his solid shoulders and tossed it on the bed; It took only a second for the bow-tie and upper buttons of his shirt to come undone. Taryn struggled to keep her angry composure, but the arduous fear bursting inside of her was paralyzing. They were close—very close. His eyes flamed like a wild cat ready to attack its prey. She swung to put more space between them, but he reached out and grabbed hold of her arm, pulling her back against his hard chest.

  “Stop it, Michael,” came the frightened gasp. “Forcing yourself on me wasn’t part of the bargain.”

  “I wonder if force is the right word.” The fire in his eyes heightened to profound want. Her lungs felt constricting as she struggled to breathe normally. “It’s there in your eyes. I can see it. You want to be touched oh—so—much,” his eyes lowered to her trembling mouth. “It just takes the right combination, doesn’t it?”

  She twisted her head as he tried to kiss her. “Let go of me—no,” she strained her hands against his chest.

  “No?” he exhaled a soft chuckle, his sensuous breath fanned her face. “You don’t mean that, either.”

  A jaw muscle clenched tightly as one hand came up and held the back of her neck to keep her still, while his lips pursued and fastened to hers, forcing them to part. Her mind whirled from his exquisite exploration. He wrenched his mouth away to plant wanton kisses across her face, down to her neck. Taryn reminded herself to breathe as his hands slid further down her back to arch her closer, pin
ning her to him. He lifted her, and they fell back onto the bed. His urgent mouth clung to her now responsive ones, and passion took full control. Her hands pulled from their confinement to enclose around his neck; Her body urging, imploring him to take her further. He released her warm lips and pressed fervent kisses across her beast, biting gently on one nipple through the inhibiting material of her dress. Taryn’s body exploded with hunger. She grabbed his face and kissed him deeply. When he grew against her, she moaned and sought desperately to unbutton the rest of his shirt.

  It was the breathless call of his name that changed the moment. At once she felt his entire body grow lifeless; His mouth ceased its voracious journey of her neck. A jarring wave of reality hit her the moment she opened her eyes to the sharp ones above. Her hands dropped from his shoulders. Michael pushed himself up to his full height and straightened at his rumpled clothes. Their eyes gripped for what seemed like ages, each striving to control their labored breaths. She managed to pull herself up to a sitting position at the edge of the bed, waiting for him to explain.

  “Don’t worry, Taryn,” his features now more heated. “I won’t force you. Like I said, come to me when you want me—not when you need a substitute for another man. Speaking of which, it would be in all of our best interests if you stayed away from David.” In long forceful strides, he grabbed his coat and stormed from the room.

  She jumped up and stared at the closed door. Her hand shoved back strands of loose hair over her face. (David?) Does he really believe she has romantic feelings for David? It wasn’t David her body ached for just now; It isn’t David that comes to her in her dreams. She wrapped her arms around the post of her bed and touched her forehead against its hard surface. His accusations about her unfaithfulness to their marriage vows hurt true enough. But even more painful, is how easily he shut off his desire for her. What is he trying to prove? That he doesn’t need to reach out to her? That his patience has grown another layer, and he’s given up?