“Yes, I am, and I have an idea. Why don’t we have people who have been diagnosed with lupus speak on how it’s impacted their life? I think this would be more emotional and inspire our donors to pledge more money.
“That’s a great idea. Do you remember me telling you about the lady I met when my mom was so sick and in the hospital? She had Lupus, and she told me a lot about it. I’ve never forgotten how sweet she was to me. It’s one reason I decided to help Lupus and cancer patients, but I never dreamed I would be sponsoring events that would help so many. My heart is filled with so much joy.”
“Silvy, you have such a good heart. I’m just happy I can help you, even though you won’t tell me who you were texting.” The little scamp. I can’t believe she said that. She just couldn’t leave it alone.
“One of our speakers this year will be Toni Braxton. She says she’s honored to be asked,” I continue, ignoring Roslyn’s comment.
We worked straight through the afternoon without a single break. Around five, we decide to call it a day. We didn’t finish the goal I’d set for the day, but we did put a huge dent in it.
My driver is waiting outside and takes me directly to my penthouse. I kick off my heels at the front door and walk barefoot to the kitchen for a glass of water. I’d rather have a glass of wine but I don’t have enough time. I need to get ready for my date.
I step into the shower and allow the warm water to soothe my aching muscles. Tiny threads of doubt begin to weave their way into my thoughts. What am I doing? I don’t know this man, don’t know anything about him; I don’t even know his last name. He ended all his texts with JM but I have no idea what the initials stand for, other than Jaxson. I should cancel, stay home, and work on the plans for my event. It’s the sole reason I came into the city. What would it matter? Jaxson doesn’t know me, and I never gave him my last name, either. Yes, that’s what I’ll do. I’ll send him a text and tell him something has come up.
I step out of the shower and wrap myself in a towel, then grab my phone from the vanity. I immediately see I have two missed messages, and they’re both from Jaxson. Maybe he’s decided to cancel. I’m not sure why, but I feel a twinge of disappointment.
Jaxson: I can’t wait to see you tonight. I hope you like tacos, because this restaurant has the best in the city. Is that relaxed enough for you? JM
Jaxson: You haven’t replied. I hope this doesn’t mean you’re cancelling. It would be a blow to my fragile ego if you stand me up for our first date. I already have jeans laid out for tonight. I seldom get the opportunity to dress casually, but I will for you. We can be comfortable and relaxed together. JM
I read the messages again, trying to decide how to respond. But he was right earlier, I do have to eat.
Silvia: I’m not cancelling. Can’t a girl have a shower? And yes, I love tacos. I’m looking forward to trying the best in the city. By the way, what’s your last name?
I press send and right away, I see him typing a response.
Jaxson: My last name is Montgomery. JM
I whisper his name softly. Jaxson Montgomery. Yes, the name fits him. If he doesn’t wear jeans often, he must be some kind of businessman. I need to find out more about him. In the past, my father or brother have always investigated the men I’ve dated. This is the first time I’ve gone out with a stranger. They’d both be upset if they knew. But what they don’t know won’t hurt them, right? Let’s hope so. I just hope it doesn’t end up hurting me either. I’m just so tired of all the interference from my family. And I’m tired of being alone. Who knows? The mysterious and persistent Jaxson Montgomery may turn out to be the perfect guy. There’s only one way to find out. I guess I am feeling a little adventurous.
Tonight, I’ll relax, eat tacos, and enjoy my date with Jaxson Montgomery.
CHAPTER THREE
JAXSON
My day has been good overall, although my lunch with Blair was a little awkward. She arrived while I was texting Silvia. I could tell she was curious, but the last thing I need is Blair asking questions. I tried to play it off as business, but I think she suspected I wasn’t being truthful.
It’s not often a woman catches me off guard, but Silvia did. She’s obviously refined and accustomed to the better things in life, so it took me by surprise when she requested a relaxed dinner. I don’t think I’ve ever dated a woman who wanted anything simple or casual. You can’t get more casual than El Loco, though. They don’t even require reservations. I think Silvia may prove to be full of surprises, and I’m eager to discover them all.
I shower and decide on a pair of dark wash jeans with a light blue polo shirt. I take one last look in the mirror, then take my private elevator down to the car. Randal is waiting and steps out to open my door. He looks at me a little strangely.
“Is there something wrong, Randal? How do I look?”
“I think you look fine, sir,” he answers quickly. It’s not the answer I was hoping for, but I want to impress Silvia, not Randal.
As we make our way through the busy streets, a strange feeling comes over me. I think I feel nervous, something I haven’t felt since I was a teenager on my first date. But I’m no longer that inexperienced young man fumbling for things to say to a girl. I’m a successful and very wealthy businessman meeting a beautiful woman for dinner. I’ve entertained my share of women and for many of them – no, make that most of them, it was for a lot more than just dinner. I have no reason to feel apprehensive, but I do need to be careful. Silvia is the key to everything.
I don’t see her when I arrive, but I am a little early. I get a table and tell the hostess I’m expecting a guest. I wait less than five minutes before she walks in wearing a light blue casual dress, almost the exact same shade as my shirt, and it’s quite short. To look at us, you’d think we’d coordinated our outfits. And wow, she may be wearing flats, but her legs are still killer. I bet they’d look even better wrapped around my waist. I lift my hand and wave her over to the table.
“I see you made it. I hope you didn’t have problems finding the place. I appreciate you accepting my invitation, Silvia.” I stand and pull out her chair.
“Thank you for asking, Jaxson. It smells so delicious in here. Mexican is one of my favorites. I hope the food is good, because I’m starving,” she replies nervously, taking her seat and giving me the once-over with those gorgeous eyes. I want to tell her it’s doesn’t smell nearly as delicious as she does, but that might be a little too much too soon.
“I’ve eaten here on numerous occasions. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.” I sit back down and can’t tear my eyes away from the gorgeous creature in front of me. Her skin is absolutely flawless. If she’s wearing makeup, it’s minimal. The only thing I see is a little mascara and pink lip gloss.
Before she can reply, the waitress arrives to take our orders, then tells us our food will be ready in a few minutes. It’s time to lay on the charm, and time for Silvia to meet the Jaxson Montgomery women can’t resist.
“Silvia, I’m going to be honest with you. I find you very attractive. Admittedly, it was your beauty that first got my attention, but I’m not a superficial man. I know there’s more to a person than just their looks or appearance. I want to know more about your interests and hobbies, your hopes and dreams. I want to know the real Silvia, the woman inside that gorgeous body.” I look into her eyes as I lift her hand from the table and place it in mine.
“Well, Jaxson, we only met today. I think getting to know each other is a good idea, but let’s take it slow. Then, we can see where things go.” She fidgets slightly in her seat and pulls her hand away, placing it in her lap.
“I appreciate what you’re saying, but we’re not teenagers on our first date. We don’t have to go fast, but maybe we could, at least, speed things up to medium.
She throws back her head and laughs, a genuine laugh, and the only thing I want to do is make her laugh again. It’s such a sweet and melodic sound. She starts to say something but is interrupted by the
waitress bringing our drinks, chips and salsa.
She picks up the glass and places her luscious pink lips on the rim, then takes a slow sip of wine. God, this woman is so hot, and I’m hanging on her every word.
“Jaxson Montgomery, if I didn’t know any better, I would think you want more than tacos.” She arches a perfect brow and gives me a flirty look. It’s the sexiest damn thing I’ve ever seen. This conversation just heated up.
I lean over the table, trying to get as close as possible. “I wanted you as soon as I saw you walk into the coffee shop. My cock is so hard right now, I could probably pound nails. But if all I can have is tacos with you tonight, that’s fine. I’m a patient man.”
Her perfect pouty lips open in shock, and I simply can’t resist. I rub my thumb across her bottom lip. She doesn’t stop me, but I pull back before I’m arrested for throwing her over the top of this table, spreading her legs, and seeing how sweet her pussy would taste. And there’s no doubt in my mind, I will taste it, and it will be sweet.
She leans back in her chair, takes a deep breath, then picks up her glass again and takes another swallow of wine. But this time it’s not a sip; it’s a gulp. I know this woman wants me as much as I want her. And as much as I hate to admit it, I do want her, but I have to play this right. I can’t screw this up. I may have to take a few cold showers, but it’ll be worth the wait.
Before she can respond, the waitress arrives with our food. The mood changes and we dive in to our food. I ask her general questions about her life. She finally tells me her last name is Demetri. As if I didn’t already know, but I can’t allow her to suspect. I clench my teeth and force myself not to react.
She says very little about her family, but she does talk about her charities and why she’s so passionate about them. The more she reveals, the more I wonder why this woman isn’t married with children. My only guess is that Silvia is holding something back; there’s something she’s not telling me. But I have all the time in the world. I’ve waited ten years, so what’s a few more months.
Suddenly she stops and says, “I’m so sorry. I’ve done nothing but talk about myself. I want to know more about you.”
“What would you like to know. I’m an open book.”
“Well for starters, what do you do when you’re not trying to pick up women at coffee shops?” she asks, her eyes dancing with mirth.
“I work in public relations. I own my own business, Montgomery Incorporated. My corporate headquarters are located here in Manhattan.”
“Your job sounds fascinating. I bet you meet a lot of famous people in your line of work. Do you have any family?”
“It’s only me. My parents and sister are deceased.” I continue eating, as if it’s no big deal. I don’t really want to talk about my family, but I have to say something to answer her questions.
She looks at me with a pained expression, but I don’t want her sympathy.
“You have no family at all, Jaxson?”
“I have my grandmother. She keeps me grounded,” I reply.
“So, you’re successful, handsome, and have a sense of humor. Why hasn’t some woman dragged you to the altar yet?”
“Probably because I would never allow anyone to drag me anywhere, but I’m beginning to believe it could be because I hadn’t met Silvia Demetri yet.” Her eyes widen at my declaration, and I give her my most charming smile.
“You’re smooth, Jaxson. I’ll give you that, but you’re not that smooth.” She takes another sip of wine and raises her brow at me again. I’m beginning to realize this brow thing is her signature move, and I admit, it’s sexy.
“I can’t believe my corny lines don’t work on you. I rather like that about you.”
“And exactly what is it you like?”
“I like that you call me on my bullshit.”
“And is that the only thing you like about me?” she asks softly.
“No, it’s not the only thing.” I can see she wants to ask me something else, but hesitates and licks her lips, then continues.
“Jaxson, why are you pursuing me so aggressively? I’m not easily fooled, and I’m no one’s prey, no matter how good looking they are. I come from a family of strong men, and they have taught me well.”
“Are you saying I’m good looking?”
“You already know you’re attractive Jaxson. Remember, modesty is a virtue.”
“I’ll accept that. But I assure you, modesty is not one of better qualities. But to answer your question, I’m pursuing you because you excite me in ways I haven’t felt in years, Ms. Silvia Demetri. And I assure you, I have no intention of hurting you.”
We’re so deeply engrossed in our conversation, I don’t even realize the waitress is asking us something.
“Would you like any dessert?” the waitress asks again.
“No, we already have dessert waiting, but I’d like the check, please.” The waitress pulls the check from her apron pocket and hands it to me. I place several large bills on the table and stand.
Silvia frowns at my response but doesn’t object. I hold out my hand to her, and she takes it graciously.
“Jaxson, thank you for a lovely dinner, but I really should be going. I have a long day tomorrow,” she says as she stands and removes her hand from mine, then smooths the front of her dress.
“I know you have room for dessert, Silvia. I promise you’ll love it.”
“I’m not going home with you, Jaxson.”
“It’s not what you think, love. This is not dessert at home. This is in my car. My driver picked it up while we were eating., Please say you’ll have dessert with me, then you can go. I promise I won’t try anything, at least nothing you don’t want.” I flash her my famous boyish smile, dimples and all.
“It’s in your car?” she asks doubtfully.
“Yes, and you’ll love it.” She hesitates for only a second, then places her hand in mine, and it feels surprisingly good.
We walk out together, hand in hand. Randal is standing outside. “Silvia, I’d like to introduce to my driver Randal.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Randall. I understand you picked up something for dessert,” Silvia says, not so subtly. I know exactly what’s she’s doing. She’s trying to make sure I’m telling the truth. Smart girl.
“Yes mam,” Randall says and opens the back door. Silvia glances inside, where lemon cake and champagne are waiting for us.
“Jaxson, I love lemon cake. How did you know?” she exclaims with a breathtaking smile.
“I didn’t know, but I love lemon cake, too. I just took a chance that you would love it as well.”
Liar, liar, pants on fire.
As I say the words, they turn to ash in my mouth. I know it’s a lie. I already knew she loved lemon cake, and that it’s her favorite. I know everything about this woman, and I do mean everything.
“Relax, Silvia, and enjoy your cake while I pour some champagne.”
She hesitates again but finally nods in agreement. That hesitation worries me. I need her to trust me. It’s the only way my plan will work.
After she’s taken several sips of champagne, I decide to go for broke and see how far she’ll allow me to push. I pick up a slice of cake and instead of using a fork, I drag my index finger through the frosting and hold it to her lips, allowing it to linger while waiting to see if she will reject my invitation, or accept it and acknowledge her desire.
She opens her mouth slowly, and I move my finger forward, barely touching her lips. Our eyes are locked as we each hold our breath in perfect unison. I want to ravish her, right here, right now. I can’t remember ever wanting a woman this badly, but I know I must restrain myself.
She opens her mouth wider, and I slowly push my finger inside. So very softly, she flicks her tongue to the frosting and licks it from my finger, then closes her eyes in pleasure. Fuck! I could come in my pants from just watching her.
But it’s what she does next that surprises me most. She places her little hand on mine,
and moves my finger farther into her mouth, then wraps her perfect plump lips around it and sucks, then moans softly. Oh god! Kill me now. I am so going to hell.
“You want more?” I whisper.
“Yes,” she admits breathlessly.
This time I pick up a piece of the cake, then take a huge bite and chew slowly, watching her reaction. I want to know if Silvia can be a naughty girl.
She watches me like a hawk, squirming in her seat, then finally says, “I want some cake too, Jaxson.”
Yes. It’s what I’ve been waiting for. I move closer, holding another morsel of cake. She opens her lips and moves forward, taking it from my fingers with her mouth. I know I should control myself, but I can’t resist. I lean in for a kiss, and she doesn’t back away. I press my lips to hers, and she opens her mouth, allowing me to slide my tongue inside.
I’ve died and gone to heaven.
Our kiss takes on a life of its own. It starts out tender and cautious, but quickly morphs into passionate and ferocious, my lips demanding, and hers submitting to my will. I gently push her back against the seat, then wrap her in my arms and cover her body with mine. I never want it to end. Randal has the car idling with the air conditioner on, but it suddenly feels unbearably hot.
“Oh, Jaxson, this feels so good,” Silvia moans.
I continue kissing her, tasting the lemon on her tongue, never wanting it to end. I don’t know how far she’ll allow me to go, but I have to try. I can’t stop myself. I slide my hand over her ribcage and to her breast, pinching her nipple and squeezing lightly. I feel her heart fluttering wildly in her chest, I pull my hand away and move it between her legs. That did it. She just drew a line in the sand. She grabs my hand and pulls back. I think I knew she would stop me but I had to try.
“We have to stop… um… I have to go.” She sounds nervous and anxious, almost as if she thinks I won’t stop. Although I don’t want to stop, I stop. I must gain her trust.
The Fidelity World: Devious (Kindle Worlds Novella) Page 4
