Tiger Lily: Part One

by Amélie S. Duncan

  “Already? Good. I always feared you would go back to the bum. The universe has blessed us. Praise be to all gods and goddesses,” she said. “Oh wait, that means some other poor soul is with him. Give me her name so I can do a casting away ritual to send him away from her.”

  I snickered. “Heather. He was denying the engagement in front of her, so I don’t know what will happen.”

  “Good. I’ll just celebrate you’re not going back then,” Mary said.

  I sighed. “Declan wasn’t always like that. He had a hard life. He had to take care of his family when his father left. He created his business from the ground up. And, he handled everything when I couldn’t manage after my parents’ death.”

  “He was the only one you allowed to handle everything and he was a jerk about it all, too. He was no prince and he broke up with you. That’s enough for me to hate him,” Mary said. “And I truly loathed him.”

  I clicked my tongue and turned on my side. Mary’s reaction was the reason I started censoring what I shared with her about my relationship with Declan when we were together. The few times I accidentally shared something negative that happened, she grabbed ahold of whatever I shared with her and tried to convince me to leave him. It became unbearable to speak with her. This was the reason I never shared with her the few physical fights we had and worked on them on my own. In truth, I wasn’t willing to let him go. Nevertheless, I couldn’t argue her assessment on our relationship. His offers to help educate me on life had started kindly. Following their deaths though, they became more severe. If I asked for help with my move, find a new place, stay with him until I found a job, he told me I needed to learn not to “be the spoiled princess” my parents had molded me into.

  “Enough about Dec. I stalked a gorgeous businessman last night,” I blurted.

  “Never a dull moment in New York City. So, what happened? Did you tear your clothes off and jump on his back?”

  I laughed. “Hardly. I do love your active imagination, though I reckon the front would have been more satisfying.”

  “Obscene words from a pristine girl,” Mary said.

  The Breakfast Club movie quote made me giggle. “I’m not that pristine. I was with Declan.”

  “Limiting yourself to Declan makes you one. So, please. Yes, you are,” she said briskly.

  I laid back on the bed. “You keep talking like that, I won’t tell you.” She mewled and I laughed. “Fine,” I conceded. “Black hair, kind of GQ. Chiseled features, Rutger Hauer’s eyes or close to tropical, depending on the light. Perfect arch to his brow, tan and tailored, and takes good care of himself.”

  She sighed. “Sounds like a bit of an Adonis. That’s plenty, but what has you worked up?”

  I grinned. “He understood anthropology, could discuss philosophy, and quoted Shakespeare.”

  “Be still my heart. So did half the guys in college. Tell me, what else is it?” Mary pushed.

  I covered my face. Mary really understood me so well. “He actually wanted to talk to me about…‌me. It was easy talking to him, too. I said things I never normally do. Everything. He just seemed caring, kind and, well, assertive.”

  “That’s quite an impression from one night. So when do you plan to jump on him?” She asked. “Wait. He may be the dark and dangerous type, I’ll send you some BDSM books to get you prepped.”

  I laughed. “Geez, Mary…‌I don’t…‌he’s not. I doubt he’s like that. He’s older, a family man.”

  “So is my Hans. He’s a good fifteen years older than me. And may I remind you he’s a vigorous, kinky scholar.”

  I giggled. “How could I forget?” I recalled the time I ran into our college apartment and found him in a leopard G-string stalking her. “Besides the fact he’s based in Texas and a potential client. He’s out of my league.”

  “You’re beautiful, Lily. I wish you could see that,” Mary said quietly.

  “Even if that were true,” I paused. “There are plenty of beauties out there and he still could be a client.”

  “What about Gregor?” Mary asked. “That never stopped him.”

  I bent my pillow under my head. “Yes, it did, and that’s one of the reason’s he’s divorced now.”

  “Yeah,” Mary said quietly. “He must be freaking out. Sending his girl out to pasture.”

  I rolled my eyes. “Not this again. I’m not his girl. You met his latest the last time you were in town, I think.”

  “He doesn’t keep them long enough for me to meet them,” Mary said. “And it doesn’t make him any less crazy for you.” The call waiting beeped.

  “I should probably get that. Phone you later, Mare Bear?”

  “You better. Tiger‌—‌” I pressed the call waiting as my heart constricted. I didn’t like anyone calling me by my nickname, at least not anymore. “Hello?” I said gruffly.

  “Did I catch you at a bad time, Ms. Salomé?”

  My mouth fell open. Jonas. “Mr. Crane. I just woke up. I mean, I was up before, I went jogging.” That’s right. Impress him with fitness.

  “Jogging? I usually just go to the gym,” he said. “You’re dedicated.”

  I laughed. “Hardly, I have a roommate that insisted. How was yoga?”

  “Just Hatha, no Tantra,” he said

  My cheeks warmed as I suppressed a giggle. “I wasn’t serious.”

  He chuckled. “I think I have your blush planted on my memory. Yoga went well. Even Paul couldn’t deny it.” He sighed. “How do you feel after last night’s news?”

  My insides warmed. “I’m okay. More surprised after three years together, I didn’t expect him to get engaged in just six months apart. I think I was in shock, but I’m alright now.”

  “Happens that way sometimes. Glad you’re alright,” he paused for a moment, contemplating. “I was wondering if you would like to have dinner with me on Monday at the Waldorf. We can continue our conversation.”

  A flutter went through my stomach. Kiss or the conversation? Either way, I wanted to go. “Yes, what time?”

  “6:30. I’ll send my car to Arch,” he replied.

  I licked my lips. “I’ll take a taxi, thank you.”

  “You’re stubborn. I’ll change that,” he said.

  I beamed. “Good luck, Mr. Crane.”

  “I enjoy a challenge, Ms. Salomé.” He cleared his throat. “David will pick you up at Arch and I’ll meet you by the clock in the hotel. 6:30 p.m.”

  A thrill shot through me. He was insisting. “I…‌Okay.”

  “That’s better,” he said lightly. “See you Monday.”

  My face ached from the width of my smile as I thought on the tingle that went through me at his praise. “See you then. Thanks.”

  Placing the phone down, I stretched out on my bed and let out a shriek. Jonas Crane asked me out for dinner! No. He asked you out for a work dinner, silly. Either way, I was thrilled at just the chance to spend time with him again.

  Chapter 6

  Gregor strolled up to my desk on Monday morning with a grin on his face. “Guess who’s been invited to the Island after all?”

  Squealing with delight, I jumped to my feet and hugged him. Arch had been trying to get invited to the exclusive Nile online publishing conference in the Hamptons, but had been shut out as only the top seven and a few small houses were ever invited to their private promotions and exclusive offers.

  “Lily,” Gregor said with a feigned scowl as he hugged me back, and released me when I pulled away.

  I beamed at him. “Congratulations, Gregor! How did it happen?”

  Gregor folded his arms. “I’m not so sure myself, but I got a call today and an invitation to attend, and of course I won’t refuse, even if it is on short notice.” His eyes lit up. “This could mean…‌God I don’t even want to say yet what this could mean.” He frowned.

  I jutted out my chin. “You won’t jinx it, and with Soul Sorrow, Bliss¸ and Quinton’s Memoirs, all at the top of the bestsellers, not to mention all the rest of our li
brary doing well, they would be foolish to snub Arch.”

  He reached out and squeezed my shoulder. “That’s what I needed, a Salomé’ special pep talk. Well and….”

  I grabbed my notebook and started scribbling. “And I’ll start writing Arch’s announcement and send it over for your approval. Anything you need my help with? What about your flights? Agenda? I could get some of our PR marketing packages put together to take with you.”

  He stroked his chin. “You are a wonder. PR has started….”

  “But I’ll go give them a hand,” I said.

  “They have covered the flights and hotel. I’ll just need a ride to the airport, which I can arrange on my own,” he said.

  I arched a brow. “I’ll get the car service.”

  “Nope. I’ll take a taxi,” Gregor said shaking his head.

  “Déjà vu. I just had this same conversation with another man,” I said. As I moved to past him, he clasped my arm.

  “With who?” Gregor asked, his brow lifted.

  I titled my head up. “I’ve got news as well. Mr. Crane invited me for a work dinner tonight and practically ordered to pick me up,” I embellished.

  “When did he call you?” Gregor asked, crossing his arms.

  “Saturday. He wants to discuss Arch with me over dinner.” I turned back to my desk and opened my Word document file.

  “You know, if you want, I could easily get Mia to go over for the closing part‌—‌” he said.

  I shook my head. “No. It’s too late. Besides, I would like to go.”

  He blew out a breath. I turned around and frowned. “Everything alright?”

  “Yeah,” he replied with a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

  I sighed. “I’ll be ok. Don’t worry.”

  He licked his lips. “Okay. But tell me immediately if you’re not.”

  I nodded at him, then sat down and went to task. Completing the draft letter in record time, I ran over to the PR department and put together an extra fifty packages, along with extra media packages for Gregor. I was purposely distracting myself so I wouldn’t obsess over my pending encounter with Jonas.

  I understood Gregor’s reservation better than I had before, though I didn’t have a way to block out Jonas’s charm or charisma. His kiss alone had me reeling, craving more. So the most I could do was put my worries away and focus on work. Before I realized it, the day had gotten away from me. By the time I checked my watch, it was ten minutes to six.

  Wringing my hands, I took inventory of my clothing and hair. My pinstripe suit was wrinkled, there was a run in my cheap nylons, and the chignon I styled my hair in this morning was askew. In all my excitement, I didn’t realize until I arrived at work that I forgot to bring a change of clothing. Not only did I look a mess, but I hadn’t gotten everything done I wanted to prepare Gregor for his conference. I can’t go like this. Perhaps try to reschedule for tomorrow?

  I didn’t want to cancel, but I didn’t want to hold up his time if I were to work another hour or two. Or was I delaying? At least an extra day would give me a chance to dress up, relax and prepare, I convinced myself as butterflies fluttered behind my ribs. Pulling out my phone, I took a deep breath before calling Jonas Crane.

  After two rings, he answered. “Hello,” he answered in a low sultry voice that made my pulse quicken.

  I touched my face. “Hello, Mr. Crane. It’s Lily Salomé.”

  “Yes. My driver should be downstairs now. You’re on your way?” he asked.

  I touched the bridge of my nose. “I thought to check with you on possibly rescheduling our dinner for tomorrow?” I stammered. What was it about him that had me stumbling over words when I spoke to him?

  Jonas let out a breath. “Unacceptable. I expect you downstairs in my car and in front of me in approximately thirty minutes,” he said in a low tone.

  I gaped at the phone, rendered speechless.

  “You’ll need to leave now,” he said as he hung up.

  Still holding my phone, I thought, Jonas Crane just hung up on me. I covered my smile.

  “What are you doing?” Gregor asked as he approached my desk. He startled me.

  I raised my shoulders. “I was going to try to work a bit more here, and reschedule with Jonas‌—‌”

  He pressed his lips together. “You can’t do that. What were you thinking?”

  I swallowed. “I just wanted to get some more stuff ready for you‌—‌”

  Gregor lifted his chin. “I’m more than ready. You did enough. Now go before I change my mind,” he said.

  I sighed. “I’m going.” I reached over and turned off my computer and glanced down at my creased pinstriped suit. “Jonas insisted.”

  He squinted. “No man likes to be toyed with, Lily.”

  I grabbed my jacket and put it on. “I didn’t mean to toy. I just wished I wasn’t such a mess.”

  Gregor tucked an errant curl back into my bun. “I know. You’re nervous, but just know you’re perfect.”

  I scrunched my face. “Hardly perfect.” I sighed, quickly packing up my things. “Thanks for that, Gregor.”

  We walked to the elevators and through the lobby. Once outside, I turned and said, “Don’t forget to save the honey roasted peanuts from your flight for me.”

  Gregor’s lips quirked. “I wouldn’t dream of forgetting.”

  I waved at David and walked over to the car, climbing inside and leaving Arch for the Waldorf. And Jonas.

  Arriving at the hotel just before 7:00 p.m., my pulse raced as I stepped out of the car. I hastened my step past the doorman and through the lobby until I made it to the lavish carved bronze clock with a miniature Statue of Liberty at the top. I didn’t know how I had missed it before. It was beautifully positioned in the luxurious lobby, as was the man standing next to it. Jonas Crane.

  My body hummed as I moved closer to him, undoubtedly his complete opposite. Confidence and authority exuded from him. Still, he was standing there, among the many admirers gawking at him, waiting for me. For me? A thrill went through me. This incredibly gorgeous man wanted to spend the evening with me. For work.

  Jonas looked striking in a charcoal gray two-piece suit. His impossible sea blue eyes bore into me upon approach, making me flush as they roamed over me assessing. He came close to me and tucked my hair behind my ear and a tingle went through my body on contact. My skin heated as I thought about my creased suit under my gaping coat and running nylons. I had hoped to be looking more at my best for my next meeting with him.

  My head dipped before him. “Sorry about the call. I didn’t have enough time to change and I forgot to bring an extra set of clothing for tonight. I didn’t mean to stand you up. I just didn’t want to appear….” I gestured my hands down at myself.

  His lips turned up into a gorgeous smile that caused a flutter in my chest. “Hello, Lily. Glad you made it.”

  I took in a short breath and smiled back at him. “Hello, Jonas. Thank you.”

  “We have reservations at Peacock Alley. But if you’d prefer, we can have it sent to my suite where we can relax and chat?” Jonas asked.

  I nodded. “Yes. Ok. I’d like that.”

  His hand moved to the small of my back and led me towards the elevators.

  The door closed and the small space filled with him. I peered down at his Italian leather shoes in front of me. The sleeve of his suit brushed against my arm. I took in a shaky breath.

  “Nervous again,” he said, amusement in his tone.

  I nodded as I played with the buttons on my coat.

  He reached his hand inside my coat and fixed the lapel on my suit, smoothing the fabric in place his gaze steady on me. His palms brushed my breasts. “We’ll relax, eat and talk. How does that sound?”

  Did he do that on purpose or was he just being helpful?

  I tucked my chin under as my face heated at the timbre of his voice and the possibility that he felt or could see my nipples hardening at his brief touch. I wasn’t sure, and was t
oo embarrassed to ask, so I worked against my pounding heart and staggering breath and said, “Sounds great.”

  Once out of the elevators, his hand slipped to my back once again and guided me toward the entrance of his suite. Opening the door, he waited for me to go inside first. Crossing the threshold, I was astonished by the dimensions and opulence before me. The foyer had exquisite marbled flooring and opened to an elegant seating area. There were large rose petal rugs situated under two antique loveseats and a highly polished mahogany coffee table that had a welcome basket and a bottle of champagne poised in a silver bucket. Next to the dining table was a fully stocked wet bar.

  Jonas opened a door next to where we stood and removed his jacket and shoes.

  “I’ll take your coat and shoes,” he said, placing his hand on my shoulder to assist me out of the coat.

  I groaned as I wiggled my toe, eyeing the hole in my nylons when I took off my heels. “They are a menace.”

  “You may take those off, too,” he said, peering down at them with me.

  I may? Odd, I thought.

  “A glass of wine, Lily?” he asked as he headed over to the bar.

  “Sure,” I called out. I absently reached under my skirt and yanked along the top and started to pull off my nylons.

  “There is a bathroom to the left.”

  I turned in mid-motion, connected with Jonas’s face. His gaze was dark, and I froze in place under its weight.

  My blush burned my face. “Excuse me.” I quickly eased my skirt back in place, darting into the bathroom and closing the door. Why did I do that? My brain had abandoned me. Jonas completely unnerved me.

  Gazing around the bathroom, I marveled at the décor as I removed my nylons. It had an open-seated vanity area with an oval mirror and full-sized complimentary toiletries. A mini-chandelier hung from the ceiling, complete with gold light sconces and satin covers, and the black and white patterned marble flooring glistened under my feet. Further inside, I admired the huge marble tub with ornate fixtures and a pedestal sink with mirror. I splashed water on my face and freshened my mouth in the sink.