Start Me Up

by Nicole Michaels

  His grin made her giddy. “Trust me, I know all too well all the things we haven’t done. I’m dying to fix that.”

  “Me, too, and yes, we are getting to know each other. For real.”

  He smiled, turned back to the playground, and they sat in silence for a while as Claire went down the slide over and over. After a moment he scooted closer. “So what’s for lunch? I’m starving.”

  “Just turkey sandwiches, chips, and grapes. I’m afraid it’s a rather child-friendly meal. Hope you weren’t expecting anything fancy.”

  “Sounds good. And that is fancier than my average lunch, just so you know.” He turned back to the playground, his fingers still tracing lazy circles against her nape. The slight roughness of his skin sliding up and down against her own sent shivers through her body.

  “I figured we could sit at that picnic table over—”

  “What the hell is that chump doing? Claire was going for that swing.” Mike stood up and stalked toward the far end of the playground. To be honest, Anne had stopped focusing on her daughter when Mike’s skin met hers.

  Now she watched as Mike approached the swings where two older boys, at least twelve, had commandeered both swings. Claire stood warily off to the side as one boy motioned to the other while Mike closed in on them. They exchanged a few words, and Anne was sure she heard an apology from an adolescent voice. Then Claire put her hand in Mike’s outstretched one before he lifted her onto the swing.

  Anne had to bite her lip to hold back the emotions that boiled over as she watched Mike push her daughter on the swing ever so gently. He’d protected her, stood up for her, and put a smile on her sweet little face. How had this happened? Anne considered all the events that had transpired in just a few short weeks as she listened to Claire’s happy voice tell Mike heaven knew what. Probably something horrible like “My mom can eat a whole pizza by herself” or “My mom’s tummy has stripes on it.” But she really didn’t care. She just wanted to be sure she did whatever she could to preserve this feeling, because at this point she knew the loss of Mike would devastate her and Claire both.

  * * *

  Friday finally came and Anne cradled her cell phone between her ear and shoulder as she tossed her asparagus with garlic and olive oil. Callie had called on and off all day to check in, and Anne owed her friend big for that. She’d been a wreck for days thinking about this date. What she’d cook and which outfit to wear. She hadn’t invited a man to her house … well, ever, really.

  “So what main dish did you decide on?” Callie asked.

  Anne let the screen door slam behind her as she went to the backyard to light the grill. “Steak. That’s good, don’t you think? All guys like a slab of meat, right?”

  “I don’t know about all guys, but I certainly like a slab of meat,” Callie snorted on the other end of the line.

  “You have the filthiest mind.”

  “Guilty. So, dressed and ready? He should—”

  “Oh gosh, I just heard the doorbell,” Anne said, her voice hushed into a whisper.

  “Oh my God. Well, go get it and do me proud.”

  Anne said good-bye and ran inside to the small bath off the kitchen to give her looks a final once-over. She’d chosen to wear a simple peach summer dress that she thought did nice things for her upper half since it was snug up top and swingy and feminine on the bottom. A nice mix of classic and sexy, at least she hoped. Her hair was down and wavy and her makeup just the lightest touch dramatic.

  When she opened her front door Mike’s cocky grin nearly had her melting onto the porch. He held up a six-pack of bottled beers from the local brewery in one hand and a bottle of wine in the other. “Wasn’t sure which was appropriate.”

  “Hmmm, maybe both.” She stood back and held the door open.

  “I like that idea.” He stepped in and looked her up and down. “And you look … absolutely stunning.”

  She didn’t want to blush but there was no hiding it. Having such an attractive man give her a compliment would never get old. His compliments truly made her feel beautiful.

  He headed for the kitchen and she followed, watching as he shoved the beer into the fridge, but not before grabbing himself one. He looked over his shoulder. “You want one now?”

  “Sure. I was going to grill some steaks, so I thought we could hang out on the patio.” No need to mention that she’d already had a glass of wine to calm her nerves.

  “That sounds good.” He twisted the top off the beer and handed it to her. They went out to the backyard. The sun was still level with the treetops, warming the patio where her favorite new outdoor furniture was situated. Lindsey had found the table and four chairs sitting outside an apartment complex’s Dumpster last fall and completely transformed them with a coat of paint and some custom paisley cushions. Anne loved them.

  “Everything inside smells amazing. What else are you making?”

  “Asparagus, and twice-baked potatoes … with cheese and bacon.” She gave him a flirty wink and turned to the grill.

  “Cheese and bacon? Are you trying to seduce me, Perfect?” He stood behind her and ran his fingers down her bare arm as she laid the meat on the hot grates. The sizzle matched the sensations running through her nerves.

  “It’s possible.”

  “Oh it’s very possible … and easy. So easy it’s not even necessary.” He laid a small kiss on her shoulder and then sat down in one of her puffy patio chairs.

  “Not necessary?” she balked. “I might remind you that on our last date you flat-out told me you weren’t having sex with me.”

  He pursed his lips tight to hold in the beer that threatened to escape with his laughter. She watched his neck move as he swallowed. Everything on his body was appealing and made her think of all the things she wanted him to do to her. Things she wanted to happen tonight.

  He managed not to choke before finally speaking. “Don’t think I didn’t want to be with you. Doing the gentlemanly thing isn’t easy with a woman as hot as you are.”

  She shook her head, sat down across from him, and took a drink of her own beer. Her cheeks were already flushed from the alcohol, the heat, and the way he made her feel. She wanted to flirt with him. “So how did you deal with that frustration? Did you, uhhh … think of me? When you got home.”

  He raised an eyebrow and then turned toward the yard, a huge grin on his face. When he looked back at her he made his expression serious and cleared his throat. “Let’s see, did I think of you? Are you asking me what I think you’re asking me, Perfect?”

  “Mmm-hmm,” she murmured around the rim of her bottle as she drank. He knew exactly what she meant, and she was shocked at herself for asking such a personal question. It may have something to do with the wine already flooding her system, but she didn’t regret it.

  “I’ve thought about you every day since I met you.” His eyes bored into hers and the words washed over her like a magic spell, setting every nerve ending aflame. She tried not to show any reaction, but she knew it was not possible as she shifted in her chair.

  She wanted to let her eyes roll back and sink into the chair to experience the full pleasure of knowing the sexy Mike Everett had touched himself while thinking of her. Where was he when it took place, in the shower, in bed, at his desk? Oh God, it was one of the most erotic things she had ever imagined. She’d definitely have to revisit that image when she was thinking of him.

  “Now you’re supposed to tell me you’ve thought of me, Anne.” He was still watching her intently, his arm resting lazily across the table, beer in hand.

  “Speaking of being a gentleman, that’s not very gentlemanly to ask a question like that.”

  “Good thing I wasn’t trying to be a gentleman then. Plus, you asked me first.”

  Anne bit her lip, trying not to laugh. He was right, of course, and she didn’t want him to be any way other than the way he was right now, unapologetically naughty. She stood up and headed for the back door. “Would you mind checking on the steaks
? I’ll get everything else ready.”

  “Of course.” He took one more swig of his beer before standing up. “And you’re forgiven for evading my question. For now.”

  In the kitchen she pulled the vegetables from the oven and put them on serving dishes before she collected a few condiments, put it all on a tray, and retreated outside. Their dinner proceeded with conversation about the Monser party, Bailey and Claire, their night at the Pie Days festival, and a few other random subjects. All fairly safe topics, but in the back of her mind, she just kept wondering if he was going to stay the night. The way they’d joked when he arrived suggested maybe he would, but she wasn’t sure. She’d assumed they’d do more on their last date, but they hadn’t. Now she wasn’t sure what to think.

  At some point they opened the bottle of wine and laughed over stories of their childhoods, and she told him about a few of her more interesting party jobs. When she brought in the dirty dishes he followed her inside and helped himself to the plate of brownies on the kitchen table.

  “These are amazing. I hate to ask but did—”

  “I made them. Callie isn’t the only one who can bake something yummy,” she replied.

  Despite telling him repeatedly that he could sit down and relax, he helped her load the dishwasher while they chatted. As she leaned forward to turn off the sink, she felt his large hands on her shoulders and she let him turn her around. He leaned into her, his length nestling against hers. She was beginning to think there was something about her kitchen that turned him on.

  “This was nice,” he said. “Just … being together like this.”

  She nodded, unable to speak as the brush of his skin against hers lit fires through her body. His eyes roamed over every inch of her face, her lips, and her eyes until he finally leaned in, his lips sliding against hers. He tasted like chocolate and smelled like sexy man.

  Each time they kissed felt like a revelation, or a discovery. This time she was going to make sure it was also a declaration; this wasn’t going to end without her getting everything from him. The first time she was fearful, the second time he’d pulled back, but this time, this time it was going to happen. No fear, no interruptions, and no hesitation.

  She deepened the kiss, sucking at his tongue and letting her hands roam over his body, up his chest and through his hair. He did the same, his palms cupping her behind and grinding her against his body.

  “Don’t leave,” she whispered. His mouth worked its way down her chin and then her neck as his hands slid up her torso to caress her breasts.

  “I’m not going anywhere.”

  She let out a breath as he pulled away to look at her again, a smile working at his lips. “You were sexy as hell on that table. And I should know because I see that vision every time I think about you … but tonight…” He pulled on her arm, backing up, and leading her toward the hallway. “Take me to your room.”

  She couldn’t help the grin forming. Without hesitation she took the lead and he followed her up the stairs. She could hear the swish of his clothing behind her and as soon as they crossed the threshold of her bedroom he wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, pulling her back against his bare chest. Oh yes. She needed to see him, but it was dusk and she’d purposely closed all her blinds earlier for just this occasion.

  His hands cupped her breasts as his lips found the crook of her neck. She moaned and lifted her arms overhead, grasping the back of his head to pull his mouth harder against her. When his fingers found the zipper at her side she sucked in a breath. He lowered it slowly, and she shivered when his warm hand landed on her skin.

  “I love how soft you are,” he said against her neck.

  She turned into his embrace, letting her own hands explore all the ways he was definitely not soft. Her eyes had adjusted to the dimness and she could see that his chest was incredibly firm and covered lightly with dark hair. The edge of a tattoo ran down the side of one bicep, which was unexpected but very sexy. His muscles moved beneath her fingers as she let them drift down to his stomach. The sound of his ragged breathing made her smile, and she looked up and found him watching her.

  They stared at each other, chests rising and falling as he pushed the dress from her shoulders. Slowly it slid down her body, exposing her bra, then her waist; when it finally pooled around her ankles she let her eyes drift closed. Standing in front of him so exposed had her heart racing and mind thinking of all the possibilities. What was he thinking? What would he say? It was dark, but she could see him, so he had to see her at least a little.

  “Look at me, Anne.” His voice reminded her of a caged lion, low and growly, but holding back power, completely in control.

  She opened her eyes. Gazing at him made her realize that her distress wasn’t warranted. All she could see was desire in his expression.

  “Now tell me the truth. Did you think of me?” he said. She paused and he tilted his head to the side, his eyes narrowing playfully until she couldn’t help but be honest.

  “Yes,” she whispered. She couldn’t believe she’d just admitted it.

  His lips pursed and he inhaled deeply, nose flaring as a look of intense satisfaction ran over his face. That reaction was worth a little embarrassment. His grip on her tightened and he began backing her toward the bed. His forehead met hers and he spoke against her lips. “Did you think of me in this room?”

  “Yes.”

  “In this bed?”

  She nodded, her fingers clutching his arms.

  He ran his tongue against her mouth, parting and taking over her lips as he lowered her to the bed. He stood watching her as she scooted back toward the pillows. From this angle the blinds allowed a small amount of light to spill in, highlighting his torso. His stomach was rippled with muscle, and the sight of him made her feel hot and needy.

  She continued to stare as he pulled a strip of condoms from his pocket. He ripped one off and tossed it onto the bed at her feet, dropping the others onto the bedside table.

  She couldn’t help laughing. “You have big plans for later?”

  He grinned while he undid his jeans and pushed them off, his underwear with them, exposing everything. No shame, no hesitation, and he had absolutely no reason for it. His erection was thick and perfect; his entire body was made for fantasy. “I have enough plans to keep you busy for days.”

  His hands hit the bed, making it dip under his weight as he prowled toward her. Grabbing an ankle, he pulled it to the side, his eyes never leaving hers. She bit her lip, promising herself she was just going to surrender completely to this. She’d left all her anxiety downstairs. She was going to give herself the pleasure of experiencing this fully without regret or insecurities.

  He lowered his body between her thighs, his length resting against her center, and he groaned, rubbing against her. “I want you so bad, Anne. Everything about you is so fucking sexy I can hardly stand it.”

  “I want you, too.” She rose up and pushed her pelvis against him, loving the hissing sound that left his mouth. His back bowed and biceps bulged. Not only was the power of his body a turn-on, but it made her feel sexy and feminine.

  Immediately he lowered his mouth to her breast, licking the round top of one while pulling at the cup of the other until a nipple was free for his mouth. He devoured her, sucking and fondling until she was grinding against him, her fingers digging into his back.

  He shifted his weight, ran his tongue down her stomach, and then moved to her thighs. He looked down between them at her body and used one hand to tug at her panties. She lifted her lower half off the bed and helped pull them down, tossing them onto the floor. He spread her legs wide so he could place light kisses where her leg met her body. It tickled and she fought back a giggle, the feel of his shoulders shaking let her know that he was laughing at her reaction.

  “I’m trying to drive you crazy, not make you laugh,” he teased. His breath was hot on her sensitive skin, and she shivered when he hovered right where she wanted him most, his lips just barely t
ouching.

  “Mmm, don’t stop,” she panted. “It’s working.”

  He blew lightly on her most sensitive spot and then lowered his head, his nose brushing each nerve ending. She could barely stand it, but the pleasure was so intense, the anticipation so thrilling, when he finally flattened his tongue and ran it all the way back up she nearly exploded. “Oh my God, Mike.”

  He didn’t stop. He licked her over and over, sliding in and out. His hands pushed her legs wider, holding her still while every instinct wanted her to squeeze them shut against the sensations that were so raw and intense. He finally settled on the one point of tenderness that would bring her to release, flicking his tongue, bringing her to a state of frenzy.

  “Come for me, Anne,” he said as he brought one hand up her breast, squeezing her nipple and making her moan.

  “I will … please.” She could barely speak, every word a challenge as her mind began to shut down, her thoughts colliding, the room going out of focus. His mouth resumed its position on her, sucking her into his mouth and she felt her body turn into a meteor, a fiery source of energy rushing toward something only to explode on impact. Her stomach dipped and her entire body shook as he ruthlessly drew out her pleasure until she sank into the bed, her limbs heavy and sated.

  Still weak from the hottest orgasm of her life, Anne slowly opened her eyes and realized she hadn’t even noticed him move to his knees. He was rolling the condom on, and watching his fingers close over his shaft was the hottest thing she’d ever seen. He stroked himself, knowing she was looking, and then grabbed her hand, guiding her fingers around him, forcing her to take over the task.

  This was nothing like feeling him through denim; this was heaven. His hips moved back and forth, pumping himself in and out of her fist and she knew it was a vision she would never forget. She looked into his eyes to find him watching her.

  “You really are perfect, you know that?” he said in a low rumble.

  Emotion poured through her; feelings this intense could not be described, only experienced. This virile and sexy man was more than she could have ever imagined, and the combination of his words, her nakedness completely exposed to him, and her hands on his body—it was like a fairy tale, a hot naughty fairy tale.