by Alexa Powers
“You’re amazing, Noah. And that was…” She couldn’t think of a word to adequately describe what she was feeling. Her brain hadn’t cleared yet from the most powerful orgasm she’d ever experienced.
“Bloody fantastic, yeah?” he stated proudly, burying his face in the crook of her neck, exhaling a deep breath that tickled her heated skin, then kissed her there.
“Yeah, bloody fantastic,” she agreed. “No one’s ever done that to me before, and I think I just had an out-of-body experience,” she chuckled shakily, still feeling the aftershocks.
“Good. There’s plenty more where that came from; I’m not nearly done with you yet.”
He rocked against her and left no doubt about what he planned to do as he reached over her to fetch a condom out of the bedside table.
They both gasped as he entered her, slowly filling her up, giving her time to adjust to the size of him. Following along at the pace he set, Emma lifted her hips to meet his as they came together as one. Propping himself up on his forearms, he bent his head to kiss her, gently at first and then becoming frantic as his pace quickened. Her hands wound around his neck to hold him there, then skated down the expanse of his back, coming to rest on his perfect backside.
Every nerve in her body was on edge as he slowed his pace. Pressing the weight of his body against hers, his breath was warm as he exhaled, sending a wave of shivers coursing throughout her.
Lacing his fingers through hers, he placed their joined hands above her shoulders, next to her head.
“Open your eyes, sweetheart. Look at me,” he gently requested, as he struggled for breath, his face flushed with arousal.
Following his instructions, the love she found in the depths of his bright blue eyes, washed away any lingering doubts she may have had. She loved him completely with her mind, body, and soul.
Fisting her hands tighter and holding them firmly to the mattress, she felt Noah losing control, as his eyes locked onto hers. With every breath, she was whimpering, moaning, and calling out his name in a heated rush, begging for more. Wrapping her legs tightly around his waist, she could feel the tremors from within building as she cried out his name.
She felt her skin flush from her chest to her face, as he continued to move within her. Twisting his body to take one nipple and then the other into his mouth, the added stimulation was enough to send her over the edge. Throwing his head back, he groaned loudly as he emptied himself into her.
They were both spent and out of breath as he turned her into him, his hand coming to rest on her hip, gently caressing her there. Exhausted, she settled her cheek against the firm pillow of his chest, listening to his heart pound wildly beneath her ear, unable to speak, but comforted by the steady beat of it.
After long minutes quietly enjoying the afterglow as his fingers lazily combed through her hair, Noah finally broke the silence. “Are you alright? Because I have to tell you, I’m not. I’m completely shattered.”
Almost afraid to hear his answer, she hesitated before asking. “Is that good or bad?” She didn’t have much experience to go on, but from her perspective, making love with Noah was absolutely perfect. The earth had literally shifted beneath her. If she’d disappointed him, he wouldn’t be the only one who was shattered.
“Oh, it’s definitely good, baby. Beyond good, actually. I think I just had an out-of-body experience,” he said with a satisfied smile, mimicking her words from earlier, as he kissed the top of her head.
“Oh, thank God. Because I’ve never experienced anything even remotely comparable to what you just did to me, and for me. It was amazing. But for a minute, I thought you were disappointed, that I’d let you down,” she stated shyly, not meeting his eyes as she spoke, nervously tracing circles with her finger on his chest.
He lifted her chin, leaving her no option but to look at him. “You could never let me down, Emma. In fact, I’m ready for another round,” he chuckled, skimming his finger up the length of her side and then back down again, his hand coming to rest on her backside and squeezing her there, then pinning her beneath him as he claimed her mouth with a passionate kiss.
Waking in the morning to find Emma sleeping next to him, gloriously naked, Noah propped his head on his hand and watched her sleep. He waited for the urge to bolt, but wasn’t entirely surprised when it never came. His sister always gave him stick about the revolving door of his love life, told him one day he’d meet his match. And as he watched Emma, cuddled up contentedly next to him, he knew he’d finally met her.
With her back pressed against his chest, her long hair was spread out on the pillow between them as it tickled his face, and their bodies aligned perfectly from shoulders to toes. His arm was draped across her waist, and the weight of her breast rested in his hand. He didn’t want to move, but as visions from the night before flashed through his mind, he felt the effects of his arousal, a state he was coming to expect any time Emma was within eyesight.
He’d had lovers before, but none that compared to the insatiable little spitfire currently snuggled up against him. They’d made love three more times before finally succumbing to the need for sleep. He’d never forget the image of her straddling his hips, riding him for all she was worth, her breasts swaying as she moved over him. Not being able to resist, he’d taken them in his hands, and watched as his ministrations drove her higher.
He could still hear her crying out as she rode the waves of her climax; her sexy moans and whimpers as she begged for more drove him insane with need. She made love with an unbridled passion and gave as good as she got, and he couldn’t get enough of her.
He tried to put words to the emotions swirling around in his head, but wasn’t sure it was even possible. How do you express how one night changed everything? He could only pray that she felt the same way. He’d never needed a woman before, but he needed this woman…his Emma. His sweet and sexy, Emma.
As he watched the rise and fall of her chest beneath his hand, he took comfort in the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. She looked so peaceful as she slept, like an angel, her lips slightly parted in an unconscious smile. He could see himself waking every morning to her beautiful face, her body cuddled up next to his, as they welcomed each new day together.
As she started to wake, her eyes fluttering open, he felt her body stiffen for a split second and then relax.
Noah pulled her tightly against his body as he gently kissed her exposed shoulder. Without thinking, the hand covering her breast started to move, gently caressing it. He watched as her eyes glanced around the room, taking in her surroundings, a serene smile spreading across her face as she turned to face him.
“Good morning.” Her hand came to rest on his chest, then dipped lower, her fingers mapping out the deep ridges chiseled into his abdomen, and he was suddenly thankful for the long hours he’d spent at the gym.
“Morning, Emma.” He couldn’t help but smile at her sleepy eyes.
Leaning in for a kiss, she suddenly backed away from him, scurrying to get out of bed.
“I need to brush my teeth.” She looked a bit panicked as she nervously brought her hand to her mouth.
“Don’t care. Come here,” he demanded, pulling her back so they faced each other, holding her there. “I’ve been waiting patiently for you to wake up. Been dying to kiss you again.”
“But I…”
She didn’t get a chance to finish her protestation as he brought his lips to hers and gave her the kiss he’d been waiting for. He felt her relax into his body as she opened up for him, their tongues mating and any thought of morning breath was vanquished.
He’d had countless fantasies that included a naked Emma spread out on his bed, ready and waiting for him to do what he wanted, but none of them compared to her in the flesh. She was so beautiful he ached for her, and she’d given herself to him without reservation. He wondered how he got so lucky to have her.
His hand massaged the length of her back, coming to rest on her naked bottom, pulling her against him as she sli
d her leg up his, letting it come to rest across his hip.
In one quick movement she pushed him onto his back and sat up, straddling his hips. With her hands resting on his shoulders, she bent down to brush a kiss on his very-happy lips. His hands traced the length of her thighs, up and down, before finally circling around to grip her bum, pulling her tightly against the hard length of his erection.
Emma left a trail of wet kisses along his jaw, then down his neck to his collarbone, then continued lower, paying extra attention to his sensitive nipples.
“Have I told you that you have the most amazing body that I’ve ever had the pleasure to lay eyes on?” she asked between kisses, as she stroked her hands up and down his arms. “So strong and sexy.”
“I don’t think so, but I’m having a wee bit of an issue thinking about anything at the moment,” he chuckled.
“Well, you do. It makes me crazy. From that first morning I looked up to find you shirtless, standing in the kitchen doorway. It drives me to distraction. I dream about it…and you of course,” she added, almost apologetically, as she looked down the length of him and licked her lips.
“Of course,” he smiled. “I’m glad you like it…and me too,” he laughed.
“Oh, I do. I really, really do.” She smiled between kisses as she made her way down the length of his torso towards his happy place.
He moaned as understanding crossed his clouded mind. Running his fingers though her hair, he hissed in a breath between clenched teeth as she kissed the length of him and, wasting no time, took him into her mouth. As he watched her, he thought his head would explode…both of them.
Noah lost all ability to concentrate on anything other than what she was doing. His world was reduced to her mouth, and the pleasure she was giving. Holding her head with his hands, he tried not to push, and ground his teeth as her hair fell across his hips, the silkiness of it tickling him as she bobbed up and down.
When he couldn’t hold back any longer, he dragged her up the length of his body and kissed her full on, then with shaking hands reached for a condom. Thankfully, she took it from him and quickly rolled it on, since he doubted he’d have been able to. Gripping her hips, he entered her in one swift movement. She cried out and he froze, thinking he’d hurt her.
“Are you alright?” he somehow managed to ask.
“More than alright. But if you stop, I may have to hurt you,” she giggled as she swiveled her hips and started to move over him. Bracing her hands on his chest, she locked her eyes on his and licked her lips, and it was the sexiest thing he’d ever seen.
“No worries ‘bout that,” he answered with a wicked grin and a thrust of his hips, filling her completely. “In fact, don’t think I could stop if I wanted to.”
Sitting up, he wrapped his arms around her, kissing her again, just because he needed to taste her, and sucked her tongue into his mouth before nipping at her bottom lip, then rolled her onto her back, and proceeded to show her just how badly he needed her.
Noah would never get tired of hearing Emma cry out his name as she came undone in his arms. Knowing that he’d given her all he had to give and then a little extra measure made him feel powerful.
As they collapsed onto his bed, bodies glistening with sweat and out of breath, he pulled her so that she was splayed on top of him, and smiled when she propped her chin on her hands with a satisfied grin. He reached up and slid a wayward strand of hair behind her ear, letting his hand linger on her face, stroking her cheek.
“Stay with me,” he said, as he reverently drew his fingers slowly down her neck and over her shoulder.
He wanted her to stay for the day, but if he was being honest with himself, he wanted her to stay forever, even if he wasn’t ready to actually speak those words to her…yet.
As Emma looked into his eyes, the endless pools of crystal blue, there was no place she’d rather be. She loved the feel of his arms wrapped tightly around her as she sprawled against his warm body, so strong and solid; she felt safe and protected…treasured.
“I’d love to, Noah.” Smiling she lifted up onto her forearms, her lips inches from his face, and unable to deny the pull, she leaned down to kiss him.
“I have to meet some mates for a workout, but after that, I’m all yours.”
“Okay. You hungry?”
“Famished,” Noah smirked, rolling her over and showing her just how hungry he was…for her.
Chapter 16
Exploring Noah’s home after he left for his workout, Emma admired the craftsmanship and attention to detail he’d employed in the renovation. Gazing at the family photos scattered throughout the living area, she hesitated when she noticed one of Noah. Based on his youthful appearance, it was from his early days with the All Blacks. He looked so happy, standing proudly on the field wearing his tight black jersey. Taking a closer look, she noticed the scar above his eye was missing and he’d added bulk to his impressive frame since the photo was taken. As handsome as he was in the picture, she preferred the man he’d grown into, scars and all.
Continuing her self-guided tour, she went downstairs to the lower level, finding an open sitting area with another TV, along with a fully-equipped home gym and two more guest rooms. French doors opened to a stunning view of the beach and a covered concrete patio that ran the length of the house, with a large hot tub tucked into the far corner for privacy.
Emma could see why Noah had fallen in love with this house. With breathtaking views greeting you around every corner, how could you not? The house was far too big for just one person, but would be perfect for a growing family. Pushing the depressing thought of what wouldn’t be from her mind, she finished the tour and went for a walk along the beach.
The water always calmed her nerves and helped to sort through the cluttered and confusing thoughts that constantly rattled around her brain. Being with Noah both soothed and frightened her. He was sweet and gentle, but at the same time, he had the power to do permanent damage. Giving your heart to someone gave them the power to do so. Emma knew she could trust him not to abuse it, but like it or not, she worried his love might very well destroy her in the end.
When he got home Noah found Emma, looking as pretty as ever, sitting crossed legged on the chaise lounge playing her guitar. She was wearing her yellow bikini, one of his favorites, and her golden hair was pulled back into a ponytail. He stood in the doorway watching her for a few moments. Just the sight of her had his heart racing and a dopey grin spreading across his face.
“Hey. I got us a takeaway. I hope you’re hungry,” Noah said, as he stepped onto the deck to join her.
“Oh my God. You startled me,” she gasped, turning to him with a stunned look on her face, her hand clutching her chest and her eyes as big as saucers. “I didn’t hear you come home.”
“Sorry, sweetheart. I didn’t mean to frighten you.”
“I’m fine, or I will be in a minute,” she chuckled, as she shook her head, reclining against the lounger and exhaling a calming breath.
“Do you want to eat inside or out here?”
“Out here’s fine with me. It’s so nice out today.” Noah wondered if the sun was as enamored with her as he was, because he couldn’t remember it shining as brightly as it had since she moved to town.
Sitting down on the chaise next to hers, Noah placed the bag of food on the table between them. “What were you playing just now when I came outside?”
“That was ‘Into the Mystic’ by Van Morrison. It’s one of my favorite songs. I guess sitting here, looking out at the water made me think of it,” she replied shyly, setting her guitar on the deck next to her seat.
“Would you play it for me?” Noah loved to hear her play the guitar and her soft voice soothed him. His life was stressful, always feeling like he was being pulled in too many directions at once, but with Emma at his side, he felt at peace for the first time; he was finally able to relax.
The first hit out of the rugby season was just around the corner, and for the first time
in his life, it wasn’t the most important thing to him. Every year since he was a young fella he looked forward to playing footy with the boys. He still did, but the thought of spending so much time away from Emma made his stomach churn uncomfortably. Everything in his life up until this point had revolved around rugby and anyone he was involved with came in a distant second. It was just the way it always was, but his priorities were shifting.
As he looked at Emma, his heart ached with need. He needed her in a way that he’d never needed anyone before. The realization scared him, but also gave him comfort. He was safe with her; she had no hidden agenda. She wasn’t looking for fame or the notoriety of being photographed with a sportsman, quite the opposite actually, she shied away from the attention. She just wanted to be with him, Noah Parker, the man.
Emma tilted her head and looked at him curiously. “Now?” she asked, and at his affirmative nod, she reached for the guitar, then settled it on her still-crossed legs and began to play. He hadn’t realized how quiet his house had been until she came along and filled it with the sound of music, and he didn’t want her to leave, taking it with her.
Noah had created a world that he could retreat to when the madness of his life became overwhelming, but as he watched Emma, he realized that a house did not make a home. There was no doubt that he had a lovely house and counted himself lucky to have it. But without someone special to come home to at the end of the day, that’s all it was, just a house. Emma had turned his house into a home.
When she was done playing, she gingerly placed her guitar on the deck, and he reached for her hand. Taking it in his grasp, his thumb caressed her knuckles as he entwined their fingers together, gently squeezing her there, and she surprised him by joining him on his lounger.
