All the Wright Moves
Page 3
Katiya’s light hazel eyes narrowed, then a vixenish grin curved her lips. She turned and went back into the house. In moments she returned with a bag that matched her shoes over her shoulder. He bit back a harsh groan as her body brushed his.
“I need to close the door,” she stated.
He stepped back. She closed, locked the door and turned to face him. Warwick’s lips twitched at the challenge in her eyes.
“If you weren’t planning to go out with me, why are you dressed so sexy?” he asked.
She smiled another wanton grin. “You think you have all the answers, Warwick, but if we’re going to date—how did you put it? Often and maybe other things?—the first thing you should learn is when I try for sexy, you’ll know it.” She moved closer and spoke, her breath wafting against him. “This old thing is just the warm up. The next thing is, don’t say anything you can’t back up.”
She went to step away back but he put his hand on her waist, stilling her. Lowering his head, he spoke close to her ear.
“And you’ll know soon, I don’t say things I can’t stand behind.”
He inhaled, the sweet scent of her hair, the scent of coconut and strawberries filling his senses. He breathed out to clear his head. Katiya moaned softly and shifted.
“You’re going to be a handful, Katiya Wright.”
She glanced at him, her lips so close to his that if he moved an inch, he’d have his first kiss from her—the first of many.
“You know it. And so much more,” she purred.
He laughed. Katiya stepped back and he let her go. She sauntered away only to pause at the top of the stairs, looking over her shoulder.
“Aren’t you coming?”
Not yet but hopefully soon. He cleared his throat. “Yes, lead the way, Katiya. For now.”
“For always.” She glanced down then up his body.
His cock hardened even more. Katiya turned and started down the stairs. He strode over to help her. Warwick had a feeling she was right. He would follow her anywhere. Reaching her before she could get to the bottom of the five steps, he put his hand on her waist and led her down. She stopped short in front of his truck.
“A dark blue 1955 Chevy Cameo Carrier,” she whispered.
Surprised, he looked at her. “You know classic trucks.”
“More than I ever would need to. Dimitri, my brother, is a classic truck fanatic. He talks about them all the time.” She whistled. “If he got a load of this beauty he would be beside himself.”
“I know the feeling. I like classic cars and trucks.” He chuckled.
Warwick opened the door, helping her in before closing it. As he went around the hood, he could hear her talking about the trucks features through the open window.
“Modern amenities and true to street rodder styles. I bet the engine is made for racing. I can’t believe this beige leather interior. A/C unit with custom switches. A Lecarra steering wheel was perched on top of an ididit tilt-steering column. This split bench seat frame has to be custom made.”
He opened his door and got in then noticed she was stroking the seat. It’s silly to be jealous of a car seat. Warwick started the truck.
“Listen to that engine purr. Does the sound system work?” She flipped it on before he could answer. “AM/FM stereo receiver with an iPod hook-up stuffed into the stock ’55 Cameo radio. Wow, you went all out for this.”
“For someone who only knows what her brother talks about, you seem to know a lot.” He pulled onto the road then glanced at briefly her as he drove.
“I got interested in them. So I go to some of the car shows now and then. If you tell anyone I’ll deny it.” Her sheepish grin was endearing.
“You’re secret is safe with me. A show is coming here next month. Maybe you can join me.”
“Maybe.” She smiled.
“Some of my cars and trucks will be showcased. I’m still trying to decide which ones. Perhaps you can help me pick. Get up close and personal with some of them.” He winked.
“Maybe,” she said again.
“How does tomorrow sound?” he asked.
“We haven’t even gotten through our first date yet and you’re already asking me for another? You don’t even know if we have anything to talk about or in common,” she stated.
He took his gaze away from the road a moment and looked at her. “I’m not concerned about that. So tomorrow. I’ll pick you up at, say, eleven.”
“You’re very confident.”
“I know what I want.” He shrugged.
“Good to know. Eleven tomorrow then. And be warned—if this date tanks you’re still going to be stuck with me at least for tomorrow. I’m still going to come by and check out your classic cars and trucks. I am not passing up that opportunity.” Katiya laughed.
He chuckled. “Fair enough. Now find something on the radio for us to listen to.”
Katiya made a noise of agreement. Soon the sound of classic rock filled the truck. He relaxed back and continued to drive. About ten minutes later he pulled into the entrance. He paid their fee and drove inside then found a space, making sure they had a good spot. He turned off the vehicle, leant back and glanced at Katiya. A big smile was on her face.
“I love Weatherly. I haven’t been to a drive-in movie here in a while.” Excitement laced her tone.
He put up his finger and made a mark in the air.
“What was that?” She raised an eyebrow.
“A point in the good date column,” he said.
“You are too much.” She laughed delightedly.
“So I’ve been told. You ready for dinner and the movie?” he asked.
“Yes.”
He got out and went around, opening her door. Warwick helped her out of the truck and led her to the back that was facing the screen.
“Close your eyes and no peeking.”
He waited until she’d closed her eyes then set up the back of the truck. He opened one bag and withdrew the plush blankets, covering the mattress he had put in the back of truck as well as the picnic basket. He wanted her to be comfortable. Next came the various full pillows in the same colours as her office, which he spread all over. Finally he placed the sitting pillow, big enough for two, in the base of the truck by the back windows of the cab. Returning to her side, he took her hand.
“Open them.”
Katiya did, then gasped.
“Your theatre seat waits.” He gestured with his hand.
“It is lovely. Thank you,” Katiya said.
She leaned over to take off her shoes but he stopped her. He lifted her, setting her on the tailgate of the truck before stooping down to take off her sandals. Her toes curled and her legs quivered. Warwick glanced up in time to see Katiya lick her lips. He rose to stand between her parted legs and leaned over her, stopping just before her lips.
“You are a beautiful woman, Katiya. I’m trying everything in my power to be a gentleman and wait to kiss you.”
“Ah, to hell with it. I promise to respect you in the morning.” She closed the distance between their lips.
Katiya closed her mouth over his. He groaned as her sweet tastes burst over his tongue—coconut and strawberries. She gripped the back of his head, holding him still for her thorough exploration of his mouth. He locked his knees when they went weak and braced his hands on either side of her hips. Katiya’s arms came around his head as she held him for her kiss. She suckled his tongue, each lazy pull created a corresponding throb in his cock. Slowly she released him from the kiss. Her slightly swollen, glistening lips caused him to groan again. He rested his forehead against hers and tried to remember how to breathe. Her harsh breaths tickled his lips.
“A handful, Katiya.”
“I’m more than that. Now ‘feed me, Seymour’.” She laughed and smacked him playfully.
“Little Shop of Horrors,” he said in delight. “Are you a movie buff?”
“Yep. Love movies and TV.”
“Cool. Then you’ll like this, as it is
classic movie night. Well, you know—what Weatherly considered classics anyway.”
“What’s playing?”
“Seven Brides For Seven Brothers.”
“That is a classic. A great one. So do you like musicals?”
“I love musicals. Grease is one of my favourites.” He helped her up into the bed of the truck then settled next to her.
“Oh, I love Grease. I’m glad lately Hollywood is starting to do more dancing and singing movies. What’s your favourite TV show?”
“NCIS,” he replied.
Katiya stared at him. Warwick looked at her, worried. She was so still.
“Katiya, are you okay?”
She put her hand up then made three marks in the air with her finger.
“What was that for?” he asked amused.
“Three marks for the good date column. One, for the lovely setup here. Two, for your stellar taste in movies. Three, for knowing good TV. Mark Harmon is hot,” she said, her eyes twinkling.
“No more ogling Mark Harmon.” He growled.
“Don’t ask for the impossible.” She snorted.
He narrowed his eyes. “Fine. Ogle me as much as you do him,” he amended.
Katiya leaned into him with a smoky look in her eyes that made his cock twitch.
“Even more, Warwick,” she promised. She kissed him softly then pulled back, resting against the pillow.
“Now where is this mysterious food, Seymour? Unless it’s invisible offerings,” she teased.
“Warwick and, yep, I am feeding you air pie and wind meat.” He chuckled.
“Feed me, Warwick.”
“As my lady commands.”
With flair, he swept the blankets off the picnic basket. He opened it and started unpacking the finger foods. After he’d finished, he took out the bottle of champagne and poured them each a glass. He offered Katiya hers. When she reached for the food, he caught her hand.
“Uh uh—let me. What do you want to try first?”
“The strawberries,” she said.
He fed her slowly as she motioned to what she wanted. He ran his finger over her lips after each nibble. Katiya moaned, licking his fingers. Each cacophony of sound and swipe of her tongue made his breath catch. He envisioned her making those sounds and using her tongue in much more pleasurable ways. He took a bite right where she had, wishing it was something else even more succulent and sweet. Katiya watched him hungrily and he deliberately swirled his tongue over the final bit of peach then sucked it in.
His slacks threatened to burst under the pressure of his erection. He continued to feed her piece after piece, taking periodic bites for himself from where she had.
“No more—honestly, I can’t eat any more.” Her deep breaths had her cleavage pressing enticingly against the edge of her sundress.
“Let me just put this away. It’s almost time for the movie.”
Removing the wet cloths, he first wiped her hands then his. He leant back and pulled her to him and she settled comfortably against his side. The movie started and she shifted, resting her hand against his chest. Warwick pulled a blanket over their legs. She murmured her thanks and snuggled in. Her lush curves fit so right against him.
It’s your first date. Control, Warwick. Control.
He tried to relax as the credits rolled up. It was going to be a long night.
* * * *
Katiya attempted to focus on the movie that was almost over but Warwick’s warm presence against her was making it impossible. His absent stroking of the bare skin of her back was driving her crazy. She shifted, trying to ease the wetness that soaked her panties. He made a soft sound, not quite a groan or sigh under his breath. His chest rubbed against her aching nipples and she clenched her fist below the blanket. Her other hand was over his heart, and the steady beat that should have been soothing was anything but. The thump seemed to make her pussy throb in time with it.
She inhaled his fresh, clean scent, noting the lack of cologne. He kissed the top of her forehead, the soft brush of his lips making her shiver.
“Cold?” Before she could answer he pulled the blanket tighter over them.
No. I want to straddle you and kiss you senseless. Then strip you down and have my way with you. Out loud she murmured, “Hmmm…thanks.”
She kept her attention on the movie screen. The cool, calm and collectedness she was known for was being put to the test. Warwick started stroking her skin again. She bit her lip hard and fought the whimper that was threatening to escape. As the last credits rolled, Katiya blinked, moved away from him and stretched. Warwick sat up and rubbed his hand on her shoulder. She moaned and dropped her head forward, allowing him easier access. He moved her hair out of the way then rubbed a few moments more. He kissed the back of her neck and she shivered as desire washed over her.
“Ready to go get some dessert?” he asked.
“Sure.”
He helped her out of the truck and put on her sandals for her. They secured the blankets and pillows in the back of the truck. A few minutes later they were in line with the others leaving the drive-in theatre. Fifteen minutes later, Warwick turned into Capri’s. They got out and went over to the window, and when it was their turn, Warwick motioned for her to order.
“Caramel ice cream with almond and pralines on a waffle cone,” she stated to the server.
“Coming right up. And you, sir?” the young woman asked.
“Coconut ice cream with pineapples and coconut on a waffle cone,” he replied.
They stepped aside and waited for their ice cream to be filled. In moments they had their items. They went over to the tables set up for seating.
Katiya sat at one of the two seat padded bench tables. Warwick sat across from her. She took a bite of her ice cream and she moaned at the first taste of the rich cream and nuts. Warwick groaned, startling her to look up at him. The hunger in his gaze made her gasp. He leaned closer and she blinked, captured by his eyes. He kissed her softly and thoroughly before he leant back then smiled.
“Eat your ice cream while I try to control myself,” he whispered.
“You can try,” Katiya countered flirtatiously.
Warwick laughed. “A handful.”
“Much more.” She winked.
He laughed again then started to eat his ice cream. She studied his eyes.
“Dark blue.”
“What?” He frowned.
“Your eyes. I knew they were dark but didn’t realise they were dark blue.”
“My mom called it indigo. It’s a family trait. My sibs all have the same eye colour.”
She nodded remembering Calix’s eyes. They continued to eat their ice cream. After a few moments Warwick cocked his head to the side.
“Do you mind if I ask you a question?”
“I reserve the right to decide if I want to answer or not.”
He nodded. “How did you decide to start The Oasis? I’ve read the official reasons on your centres info, but my gut tells me there is more to the story.”
Katiya sat back. His perceptiveness was uncanny. Only her family and a few close friends knew there was more to the official story. She studied him and debated if she should just feed him what she told everyone else. The soft gentle expression on his face made her go with the truth.
“Let’s go back to the truck. This is better told in private.”
She stood and threw out the rest of her ice cream. He followed her and they went back to the car. After they were inside, she started her story.
“I was twenty-two when I met the man I thought I would spend the rest of my life with. His name was Darren Sharp. We were so idealistic. Even then we were donating time to community centres and had dreams of opening our own centre someday—the two of us. We were together for two wonderful years before”—she took a breath and cleared the lump in her throat—“before it all went to hell. Darren was working in a bad neighbourhood when they held him down and assaulted him.” She closed her eyes briefly then opened them. “When h
e was found we barely recognised him, he had been cut up so bad. Although he denied they had violated him, the test showed they had. His family and I tried to help him. He would not face it. He still loved me and I him. I let it go, knowing he would come to me when he was ready, but things got worse.”
She looked off into space, struggling to regain her composure, then spoke in a cool voice.
“He became suspicious of everything. And…” She paused. “It doesn’t matter what else happened before that day. We were driving home from his parent’s house when Darren got it into his head I was cheating on him. Nothing I could say would get through.” The vision of Darren’s angry face filled her mind. “He screamed and cursed at me. Suddenly he yanked the wheel and drove us through the barrier on the road. It just snapped. Later, I found out that particular stretch of road barrier should have been fixed by a contractor who worked for the town. We careened down and hit the water below. The airbags deployed and knocked us out. When I came to, we were already underwater. Cars sink fast. Water started to fill it. I was pinned in and couldn’t get out. I screamed for Darren. He just laughed and said we would die together.”
She paused again. “I thought I was dead. Then the most beautiful sound came. A tap on the glass. I was never so glad to see Mattson McKingley in my life. He broke the glass and got me out. He told me later that he’d been concerned with the way Darren had acted at dinner and he’d followed us. Thank God, Darren’s parents had invited Mattson to dinner.
“Mattson returned to get Darren. He came back out dragging his body. The scar on Mattson’s cheek is from the glass Darren cut him with before Darren cut his own throat.” She shuddered.
“It was a crazy time after that. Trying to recover. Mattson and my family were already close but what happened created a deeper bond between Mattson and I. We both bear scars from Darren. I messed up my leg pretty bad and ended up with a limp.” She hugged herself. “Yet I stilled loved him.”
Katiya sent up a silent prayer of thanks once again for Mattson McKingley rescuing her. Although the town was named after the McKingleys, the McKingleys and her family had jointly founded the town. The locals held most members of both families in high esteem—not for who they were but for how they cared about the community, the things done to better the town, and their way of helping others. In her opinion it was about being a human being and was nothing special.