Fair Play

by Shay, Janna

  “Okay, have it your way. We’ll take care of business first.”

  Dani dreaded asking him for help. She knew the minute she mentioned the stripper pole, he would think about sex. What the hell? His mind was on sex all the time anyway. She might as well blurt it out.

  “I don’t want you to get the wrong idea about what I have to ask, so I’d really like you to answer in a purely professional capacity if that’s possible. It’s for a whale, not for me.”

  He steepled his fingers and nodded.

  “I need to know where I can find a stripper pole.” Despite his promise, Jace’s eyebrows rose. Before he could comment, she decided to plow through with the second question. “And do you know where I can find an escort? A male escort?”

  He leaned forward in his chair, resting his elbows on the desk. “To answer your first question, yes, I do know where to get a stripper pole. I’m relieved you told me from the start this was for a whale since I told you I’m available if you need a man.”

  Dani giggled as an image of Jace dancing around a pole burst into her mind. “You know, you just don’t seem the type to like pole dancing.”

  He frowned. “I meant I’m available for you.”

  “Don’t get all pushed out of shape. I wasn’t asking you to do it. You were the one who offered. Anyway, my whale wants a male escort who can dance on a stripper pole. Do you know where I can find what I need, or are you offering to step in?” She couldn’t hold in her laughter.

  He wrote a name and phone number on a piece of paper and handed it to her. “You’re hilarious. Call this lady and tell her what you need and that I sent you, and she’ll get it for you.”

  Her eyebrow lifted as she reached for the paper. Jace placed the note in her palm, then folded his fingers around hers. “Jealous?”

  Dani yanked her hand away from his. “Not in the least. Thank you for your help. I appreciate it.” She stood, then turned to walk out. His words stopped her.

  “Prove it.”

  She rotated her body around. “Excuse me?”

  He crossed to where she stood. “Prove that you appreciate my help. Have dinner with me tonight?”

  “I really do appreciate your help, but you know why I won’t have dinner with you. You have to stop this.”

  She wasn’t ready to give in to her desires. She still had to figure out exactly what she wanted.

  He gazed deep into her eyes. “You don’t really expect me to believe that do you? I can see the truth in your eyes. You’re as attracted to me as I am to you. Have dinner with me.”

  Dani could feel herself weakening. She changed her tactic. “You’re my boss. It’s not a good idea.”

  “Fine, you leave me no choice. You’re fired. Now there’s nothing stopping you from having dinner with me.”

  She laughed. “You’re incorrigible. You don’t play fair.”

  He moved closer. “I don’t play fair. I play to win.”

  “I guess I have no choice but to have dinner with you. Without a job, I can’t afford to eat. Seriously, you really need to stop this.”

  “Why? We’re both healthy, single adults. Why can’t we get together and see what this attraction is all about?”

  Tired of fighting a losing battle, the time had come to take a leap of faith.

  “Okay I’ll have dinner with you ... but, we take it slow. I have no intention of jumping into bed with you until I’m ready. Agreed?”

  He chuckled. “Agreed. I’ll pick you up at seven.”

  As she studied his handsome features, she finally admitted to herself what she wanted. She wanted him.

  After two full hours of following up on leads, Dani was relieved when she was able to fulfill Brad Felix’s request. She saved the phone number Jace gave her in her cell phone, sure it would become an invaluable aid in the future. She had a feeling that Jace knew exactly what this lady was able to provide, first-hand.

  For the rest of the day, her upcoming dinner with Jace was all she could think about. Had she been foolish when she’d agreed to go out with him? What was she thinking when she’d said yes? Extremely leery of his motives for wanting to take her out, she was nonetheless looking forward to the opportunity to see what made him tick. Dani knew if Jace decided to rush things, she wouldn’t have the fortitude to say no. He had the ability to break down her defenses. She was playing with fire, and that fire was named Jace.

  She dressed carefully for dinner. Dressing too provocatively would definitely prove fatal. Even considering the consequences, she was woman enough to want to look sexy and feminine. She studied herself in the mirror, and was happy with the green silk dress with the scoop neckline. Not wanting to look easy, she applied her makeup subtly. Nor was she leaving anything to chance, so she left her hair down, making sure her neck wouldn’t be a temptation since Jace seemed to like nibbling on the side near her pulse. Even the mere thought sent a wave of heat through her.

  By the time she was done getting ready, she was exhausted. Making sure Jace wasn’t tempted was a lot of work, but necessary. She wanted to enjoy the evening and not have to worry about giving him more ideas than he already had. Happy with the results, she went into the living room to wait.

  Jace knocked on her door promptly at seven. The minute the door opened, he scanned her body from top to bottom, checking her out in penetrating detail. When his eyes returned to her face, he saw her look of displeasure. Lifting his hands up in defense, he said, “I’m sorry. I couldn’t help myself. But you don’t play fair. You made me agree to just dinner and you look like dessert.”

  “Shall I change?”

  “If you do, I can guarantee we won’t make it to the restaurant,” he joked, although quite serious. “You look fantastic.”

  “Thank you. You clean up nicely yourself,” she commented as she took the arm he held out for her.

  Jace walked her to a black BMW and opened the door for her. As he walked around to the other side, Dani studied the inside and saw that it was loaded with gadgets. She should’ve known he’d have great taste in cars. His casino was one of the classiest in Vegas. She wouldn’t be surprised if his good taste reached all areas of his life.

  The restaurant they went to was upscale with crystal chandeliers and plush carpeting. Candlelit tables were scattered around the dining room, giving it a romantic ambience, as soft music played through speakers strategically located throughout the restaurant. The maître d' greeted Jace by name and seated them at a secluded table in the corner. Dani raised an eyebrow at him. He shrugged his shoulders, then ordered champagne.

  Feeling a little edgy, she clasped her hands in her lap. “This is a really nice place, but I figured we’d be going to a restaurant in the casino.”

  He took a sip of champagne. “I wanted to bring you someplace special. Thank you for agreeing to have dinner with me.” He gazed at her. “Candlelight suits you.”

  “You’re welcome. But did you ask me out because you think I’d be an easy conquest, or because you want to get to know me?”

  “I asked you out because I’m very attracted to you. I’ve made no secret of how I feel. I’d also like to get to know you better.”

  Dani studied him before speaking. “You’re an extremely handsome guy who happens to be rich and has a great body. I’ve been in Vegas long enough to know that this city is oozing with beautiful women, both famous and not so famous. You can get any one of them you want, so why me? I’m nothing special. I’ve pushed you away every time I’ve been with you, yet you keep coming back. I’m not trying to be flippant. I really am perplexed as to why you’re so adamant in pursuing me.”

  “Why are you asking?”

  “Curiosity. I think that beautiful women have been throwing themselves at you for years and still do, so I know your pursuit of me isn’t because you can’t find a date. I also think it’s safe to say you probably have a lot of experience, if the way you kiss is any indication. So I know you’re not sexually frustrated. I just can’t figure out why you think you’re so
attracted to me. I don’t have a lot to offer a man like you. I’m not rich, famous, or beautiful, and have very little sexual experience. Why me? Why not some gorgeous woman who would look great on your arm and at the same time give you what you want? Is it because I’m the first woman to ever say no to you?”

  He hesitated before answering. “You really don’t know how stunning you are, do you? How can you look like you do and have absolutely no idea that you’re beautiful? Have all the men you’ve dated really been that ignorant and inconsiderate?”

  Seeing a different aspect of his charm, Dani smiled. “I’m flattered that you think I’m beautiful, but I’m not. You’re avoiding my question.”

  Jace smiled. “I would think my answer would be obvious. I told you before there’s something extraordinary in the chemistry between us. It would be foolish to ignore it.” Picking up his glass, he swirled the champagne, then gazed at her. “Why is it that you have very little sexual experience?”

  Dani shook her head. “I should’ve known you wouldn’t forget I said that.” Clasping her hands, she leaned forward. “That actually is an easy one to answer. Sex is not an activity I particularly enjoy.”

  “Why not?”

  “I find it boring and unsatisfying. I enjoy the kissing but after that it’s kind of so-so. I think a man gets greater enjoyment out of it than a woman.”

  “Have you ever considered you might be wrong? If you’re with the right person, there is a lot of pleasure to be found. You obviously haven’t been with the right one. I’d be more than willing to offer my services.” He grinned wolfishly.

  She laughed. “How generous of you, but I couldn’t possibly ask you to sacrifice yourself that way.” Shaking her head, she continued. “I think you’d like nothing better than to prove me wrong. In any case, I think you don’t agree with me because you haven’t been with someone like me. I’ve met many women who find sex just as enjoyable as men, but I don’t think I’m physically capable of that. I have to admit, though, I do like kissing you.”

  The waiter came over to take their order. Dani was feeling uncomfortable talking about sex with Jace, so when the waiter left, she changed the subject. “So tell me how did you get to be the owner of a casino?”

  “I won a lot of money in a lottery and decided to invest it in a casino. It’s proven to be a very lucrative venture. Now, it’s my turn. How did you end up in Vegas applying for a job as a cocktail waitress?”

  Her stomach jumped at his question. “I’ve lived in many cities over the past seven years, and on my way to Los Angeles, I stopped over in Vegas. The energy and excitement of the city was so alluring, I decided to stay a while and see if it’s everything I hoped it would be.”

  “And has it been?”

  “It’s so much more than I could ever have imagined. There’s so much happening all the time, I can blend in and be completely invisible.” Her breath hitched at the slip of her tongue. She quickly asked another question. “Is the excitement why you decided to buy a casino and live here?”

  “Yes, it is. I find it an interesting place to live. There’s always something new happening. Are you planning on settling down here?”

  Mesmerized by his lips as he spoke, Dani’s thoughts drifted to the way those lips ignited her blood and would make her burn with desire. She became restless and felt her pulse quicken. Not paying attention to what he was saying, and embarrassed by where her thoughts had led, she asked, “I’m sorry, what did you say?”

  Jace laughed, embarrassing her further.

  “I asked if you were planning on settling here in Vegas.”

  “I haven’t decided where I want to settle yet. When I find someplace safe, I’ll make my home there.”

  He tilted his head and peered at her. “You sound as if you don’t feel safe anywhere. Why?”

  Dani tensed and felt her hands shake. She quickly lowered them to her lap and clasped her fingers together tightly. Hoping to mask her fear, she said nonchalantly, “Why do you ask?”

  His brow furrowed. “What are you afraid of?”

  She took a calming breath to relax. “Nothing.” She crossed her arms and leaned forward on the table. “So tell me where are you from?”

  “I was born in Texas but have lived many places here and overseas. My father was in the military.”

  “So you’re a military brat,” she teased, relieved that he didn’t pursue his inquiry.

  “Military yes, but I don’t think I’m a brat. Do you think I’m one?” he joked.

  Her eyes lit up mischievously as she chuckled. “I can think of a few choice words to describe you, but brat isn’t one of them.”

  His eyes twinkled as he grinned at her. “Really, what words would you use to describe me?”

  “Stubborn, tenacious, oversexed. But to be fair, I’d have to also say confident, intelligent, and successful.”

  Jace laughed. “At least I have some redeeming qualities.”

  “I’m not sure you can be redeemed. You might be beyond saving.”

  “Maybe I need you to save me?”

  The waiter interrupted by clearing the dishes, then Jace continued. “I’m very attracted to you and I know you’re attracted to me. So why do you go out of your way to avoid me? Are you afraid of me?”

  Dani hesitated before answering. “I’m not afraid of you. I’ll even admit that I am attracted to you. But you’re my boss and getting involved with a boss is not a good idea. I know you’ve said that you can separate business from pleasure, but I’m not sure I can.” She picked up her glass and took a sip of champagne. “I really like my job, and I’m not willing to jeopardize it in any way. If we slept together, it might affect my job.”

  “Our becoming lovers would have nothing to do with work.”

  She became annoyed. Sex was not a subject she was ready to discuss with him. “Do you have any brothers or sisters?”

  Jace peered at her. “No, I’m an only child. My mother left with her lover when I was a baby, leaving my father to raise me. He, being in the military, was gone a lot of the time, so I kind of grew up by myself. He was deployed when I was about twelve years old, and never made it back.”

  “I’m sorry. That must’ve been hard for you. Where did you live after he died?”

  “Here and there. I went from relative to relative until I was old enough to take care of myself.” An awkward silence fell between them as he stared at her. “I took care of your curiosity, now it’s my turn. Where are you from?”

  Her stomach quivered at his question. “I was born in Chicago.”

  “Since your answer was concise, I guess I’ll have to ask a couple of questions at a time. Do you have any brothers and sisters, and where is your family now?”

  “Like you, I’m an only child. I never met my father because he left when he found out my mother was pregnant.” Sadness momentarily engulfed her. “I was raised by my mother, who gave me a wonderful childhood. She died when I was seventeen, and I’ve been on my own ever since.”

  “You didn’t live with any relatives until you were old enough to take care of yourself?”

  Fear swooped in but she pushed it out quickly with a lie. “I was a week away from my eighteenth birthday when she died, so I was able to live on my own.”

  “I’m sorry for your loss. You loved your mother a lot, didn’t you?”

  Dani felt the sting of tears behind her eyes. “I loved her more than life itself. She was the most wonderful mother anyone could have. I never missed having a father, because she filled my life with everything I needed. Plenty of love. I miss her very much.” Revealing her feelings made her become self-conscious. “Forgive me, I didn’t mean to bore you with my story.”

  “You didn’t bore me in the least.” Jace saw a depth to her he hadn’t seen before, and was surprised he felt the need to take away her sadness. She brought out emotions in him he’d long ago forgotten he possessed.

  When dinner was over, he walked her back to her apartment. Dani unlocked the door, then turn
ed back to him. “Thank you. I really enjoyed myself. I didn’t think I would, but I have to admit I had a really nice time.” She gave him her hand to shake.

  “We’re way past a handshake.” Jace tugged her into the apartment, shutting the door behind him.

  When he captured her in an embrace and crushed his mouth to hers, her passion sparked like the flare a match. Her mouth opened, inviting him to deepen the kiss as her arms locked around his neck. Her senses burst into flames, making her heart pound and her blood race through her veins like liquid fire. Desire surged into every pore, wresting a moan from deep within. Drawn to him like a moth to light, her body pressed closer to his, the need to feel the lean hardness of his body driving her movements.

  All thoughts fled as his mouth continued its assault. Deep hunger ravished her body when his lips traveled to her neck, feasting on her throat, making her lose all reason. Her bones melted as her blood roared in her ears like the crashing of waves on the shore. She couldn’t fight this insane obsession anymore and didn’t want to. Her capitulation changed her response to him. Releasing the strictures she had placed on her passion, Dani let it speed through her body, annihilating every cell, every pore that it came into contact with. She raked her nails up Jace’s back, clutching his body, demanding that he end her torment.

  Impatient with the need to touch him, she wrenched his jacket off of him dropping it to the floor. She skimmed her hands over his chest, reveling in the hardness, as his muscles jumped under her touch. Craving the feel of his skin on her lips, she kissed his neck, then tore his shirt open. The sharpness of her desire cut through her like the keenness of a blade as she relished the dark male flavor of his skin. She heard his gasp of desire when she felt the hammering of his racing heart with her tongue. A heady exhilaration of power filled her, knowing she could arouse him as much as he aroused her. Never having felt this wild joy with anyone before, her desire soared, drugging her with its potency. With every lick of his skin, she became obsessed with wanting to give him as much pleasure as possible.