You don’t have to ask me twice. Slowly, she maneuvered her way over to the empty seat next to him and he handed her a heavy crystal glass. He turned to her then, held her stare for a moment before he spoke softly. “To old secrets and new beginnings, Ms. Malone,” he said, holding his glass up between them, he waited for Meg to touch the rim of the heavy crystal he held. “To new beginnings,” she repeated. Their eyes remained connected, and they both tilted their heads back and swallowed the alcohol in its entirety.
Their outer thighs touched, and Meg could feel the heat coming from his body, strong powerful muscles rubbed at her invitingly, creating a sinful sensation to her most intimate parts.
“You know, Meggie, I hope you don’t mind my saying so, but you’re different than any other woman I’ve met.”
“Oh, and how’s that?”
“I find you very intriguing; the rest I’m not quite sure yet, but once I figure it out, I’ll let you know.”
“I’ll definitely hold you to that.” She felt her face flush and looked down to where her fingers wrapped around the crystal, then tilted her head sideways to glance at him. “So, Mr. Noble, where exactly are you taking me this evening?”
“We are heading to ChikaLicious, New York’s finest dessert bar. You aren’t allergic to nuts, are you?” he asked with a grin, baring those beautiful white teeth that made Meg’s insides melt, and she licked her lips.
She chuckled softly at his comment. “You know, if I didn’t know any better, I’d swear you were making fun of me.”
“Nah,” he said, “I just don’t want a repeat of last night,” he chuckled. “You really did scare me, you know. I managed to hold it together, but man, you had me worried. You were so swollen. I’ve never seen anyone swell up and break out in hives so quickly.” He laughed in her direction; his face lit up and put a beautiful sparkle in those perfect blue eyes.
“Well, I owe you one. I’m still so very embarrassed. I can’t believe you saw me like that, my lips were huge, my tongue felt like it weighed fifty pounds. Oh, and I forgot to thank you for the package you left me. How did you ever think of that?”
“I took the prescription the nurse handed to you and had it filled. You probably don’t recall my asking you for it as you were pretty out of it. I feel better knowing you have something with you, should that ever happen again. Last night, you were lucky that we were close to the hospital.” With one eyebrow raised in concern, “That reminds me, do you have it with you, the EpiPen?”
Meg dug through her small handbag, pulled out the EpiPen, she held it up for him to see. “As you requested, I have it. I’ll carry it everywhere. You never know what could happen, right?”
“Meggie?”
There it was. Her name never sounded so incredibly sexy coming from any other person. His voice was like silk to her ears. His tone was sensual, it was perfect. I am in so much trouble here. If he can make my sex throb at the sound of his voice alone, I am heading toward very big trouble. Meg knew she should run far and fast before she ended up with yet another broken heart.
“Yes, Drake?”
“Is this your first time in New York?”
“Actually, it is. Why do you ask?”
“I’m doing business here in the city this week. I thought maybe I could show you around a little. I’ll be at the office and a few business lunches during the day, but I can have my assistant free up my evenings. Would you like that?”
Without hesitation she responded. “I would love it, but I know you’re busy. I won’t be at all offended if you don’t have the time. Sarah will be back on Monday, and I definitely intend to spend some time with her. I’m rambling, aren’t I?”
He smiled. “Just say yes, Meggie.”
“Okay, yes.” She laughed and felt him shift closer toward her if that was possible. It felt good and so incredibly right sitting here next to him. They talked and made a few jokes back and forth while Drake shared some of the history behind the Big Apple. He pointed out important landmarks and icons along the way. He also showed Meg a few condos where some famous actors, actresses, and singers lived or hung out during their time here in NYC.
Meg was thrilled at being in New York and took in her surroundings as she watched curiously through the window. “I have to admit, this city is extremely attractive.”
“You think so?” he responded.
“Absolutely. There’s so much excitement that goes on and it doesn’t seem to stop. I don’t think anyone sleeps, it so crazy busy with an adventurous edge and it’s exactly how I pictured it and more. I love what I’ve seen so far and I haven’t really even had a taste of it yet.”
The limo turned left into ChikaLicious Dessert Bar and stopped at the front entrance. Matt got out and came around to hold the door open for them to exit. Drake stepped out and reached back in to take Meg’s hand and she graciously accepted. “Shall we?” he said with a warm smile that again heated her insides. His touch sent a thrill down her spine, and when she stood, he placed his hand at the small of her back and walked up the few stairs to the door. His very touch ignited her insides. Nothing compared to how he made her feel. She had a hard time trying to keep her hands to herself when all she really wanted to do was kiss that perfect mouth of his, feel his skin, and run her fingers through those thick dark curls.
They stopped at the front door, and Meg looked up at Drake questioningly. “It’s closed?”
“Actually, they are closed on Wednesday nights, but the owner is preparing for tomorrow and I happen to know him extremely well.”
“So let me get this straight, they are closed but are opening especially for you?”
With a smirk on his face, he responded. “Like I said, I know the owner. He’s a very close friend of mine.”
“I guess New York is full of surprises,” Meg said and smiled up at him.
He chuckled lightly and turned his head to the side, his blue eyes brilliantly lit up. “That it is.” He was breathtaking and making her panties wet all over again.
The door swung open, and an older man appeared in a white apron and chef’s clothing. His hefty hand extended toward Drake. Both men gripped one another in a firm handshake, and Meg stood back, making herself invisible.
“Drake,” the older man spoke in a thick Italian accent. “What a pleasure it is to see you. It’s been way too long since your last visit. You used to come by all the time. Where have you been hiding?” The older man shook his head and placed his thick beefy arm around Drake’s shoulder. “Son, you work way too hard. You’re young and you need to slow down. Where’s this young woman you said you would be bringing along this evening?”
“Liu, always a pleasure,” Drake said and stepped aside so that Meg was in full view. “Where are my manners?” Liu said as he took a step closer to shake her hand and then kissed both her cheeks in the traditional European way. Meg noticed immediately that his smile was kind and genuine. “Come on in,” he said. “I’ve set up Drake’s usual table,” he pointed over to the corner of the large room.
Both men exchanged friendly insults to one another, laughing wholeheartedly as they did so. It was obvious the two were close. As they approached the corner table, Liu held out a seat for Meg, and she thanked him for the kind gesture. Before leaving, he stood back and took one long look at her. He whistled and turned to John. “You did well, son. She’s gorgeous. So tell me, where exactly have you been hiding this beautiful young lady?”
“Oh no, we’re business acquaintances,” she offered immediately. As much as she would love to say “I’m his and we’re together on a real date,” she was hopeful the sound of disappointment in her voice went unnoticed. She purposely didn’t make eye contact with Drake and didn’t catch his reaction. She had no idea what he was thinking.
Liu took a step back and gave them both the once over. “Oh,” he said in a low whisper. “Well, if you ask me, you two make a lovely couple.” He winked at Drake before taking their drink orders. Meg ordered a non-fat latte, no sugar and Drake ord
ered an espresso just before Liu turned on his heels letting them know he would be right back with their order.
Oh boy, that was a tad bit uncomfortable. Meg had no idea what Drake was thinking but he looked a little distant for some reason.
“Drake?”
“Meggie, will you excuse me for a moment? I have to make a quick business call and I’ll be right back.” He seemed a little distracted and something was playing heavily on his mind. Meg figured he must be feeling a little stressed over business. She was hopeful that it wasn’t the earlier situation of seeing her with John Lake or that he might be feeling uncomfortable with Liu’s last words before he left to go into in the kitchen.
“Of course, go ahead.” An uneasy feeling settled in her stomach. She was hopeful the evening would result in their getting to know one another better and, of course, to talk further about the business deal. She was starting to lose hope that he might possibly have an interest in her personally.
Liu came over to the table immediately after Drake walked away, disappearing quickly into the back room. He placed both hot drinks on the table before taking a seat across from Meg. He sat there and studied her, as if he were calculating her thoughts and trying to figure out whether or not she met with his approval. Then his face lit up with a genuine smile, the familiar smile of a caring father figure. She wondered for a moment if maybe this was Drakes’s father, but nah, there was no resemblance between them and he referred to Liu by his first name. Their features and build were completely opposite.
“Meggie,” he says, in a thick Italian accent. “I’m sorry if I embarrassed you earlier. I have to admit I was a little excited though. In all the years I’ve known Drake, he has never once brought a woman here. I was taken by surprise when he called me this morning and let me know he was bringing a young lady by this evening. He didn’t mention it was purely business, so, of course, I jumped to conclusions.” He arched his right eyebrow a little and then covered Meg’s hand with his, taking her by surprise. His hand was so big and Meg’s looked so very dainty in comparison.
“Not a big deal, Liu. I’m not the least bit embarrassed,” she lied.
“You know, Meggie, I’ve known Drake for a very long time, since he was a teenager actually, and I can honestly say he’s like a son to me.” Liu straightened up in his chair, and Meg watched him intently, paying close attention to every detail. She didn’t want to miss a word of what he had to say. He continued. “Drake worked for me while he attended university. Mind you, that was a long time ago,” he winked and pride settled in his voice. He lost himself for a moment and Meg assumed he was reminiscing about the past and the closeness he obviously shared with Drake. His connection to Drake was evident as he spoke from emotion, similar to that of a father, and his voice softened with every word.
“Drake came here from California when he was just seventeen years old and freshly out of high school. He worked hard—late nights, weekends, you name it. He was a hard worker back then just as he is today. He’s very special and one hell of a good man. The finest gentlemen you will ever meet. Between you and me,” Liu said just before leaning in closer. “I hope you two hit it off. You seem like a nice young lady. He needs to let someone into his life before this job hardens him and before too much time goes by. I wouldn’t want to see him miss out on love. Every man deserves at least one chance at that in their lifetime.” He pulled Meg’s hand into his. “I have always trusted my instincts. I can promise you, I will see you again, Meggie Malone.” he winked at her and kissed the top of her hand before letting go. Just like that, Liu got up and headed toward the front door. Meg was rendered speechless by Liu’s words. She made a silent wish that he was right, that somehow this business deal would lead to something between them. She was fiercely attracted to him and felt safer with him than any other man she had met over the years.
Liu yelled back over his shoulder before opening the front door to leave. “Drake, the place is all yours. Make sure you lock up after you’re done, son.” The door closed securely behind him and everything fell silent. Meg waited for Drake to finish his call.
* * * *
Drake approached the table dressed in a full white apron. Surprised to see him dressed this way, Meg raised an eyebrow, curiously wondering what the hell he was up to. God, the man couldn’t look any sexier. He reached out and took her hand; a shot of electricity shot through her arm awakening her desire. “Come,” he said with a gleam in his piercing blue eyes and a warm inviting smile that lit up his smooth shaven face. “I’m going to teach you how to make the best dessert this side of New York.”
“Why, Mr. Noble, you never cease to amaze me with your countless skills,” she said teasingly. Meg didn’t expect this at all, but boy, was she intrigued.
He returned the smile. “Why, Ms. Malone, I have a variety of skills I could share with you. We haven’t even scratched the surface yet.” he winked at her suggestively. Meg thought she was going to orgasm right then and there. She licked her lips and managed to stifle back a moan. She didn’t think heaven could compare to how she feel right now. She squeezed her thighs together to dull the ache growing there and shuddered delightfully at his words as she fell in step behind him.
Once inside the kitchen, he grabbed a white apron similar to the one he was sporting and placed it over her head. He stood in front of her and reached behind her waist to secure the apron. His chest brushed against her breasts and her nipples tightened at the sensation. His distinct smell of expensive cologne and the unmistakable smell of Drake himself teased her senses. They were so close, Meg could smell his shampoo. She wanted to wrap herself around him and kiss him senseless. He released his hold on her and stood back to take a look. Immediately, she found herself missing the feel of his arms around her.
He turned to the counter in front of them and pulled Meg so that she was standing next to him. “Do you like crepes, Meggie?”
“Who doesn’t like crepes?” she said with enthusiasm. Her smile was one that clearly revealed her passion for the dessert she had grown to love since she was a little girl. “Do you have bananas and nutella?”
The corners of his mouth turn upward into an approving grin. “Ahh, a girl after my own heart. Come here, stand in front of me...no, closer; that’s it.”
She hesitated for a moment and then wiggled in between the counter and the sexiest man alive. She enjoyed the feel of his body heat at her back and the feel of him brushing up against her from behind. Dear lord, how am I going to work like this? His body literally wrapped around hers and his arms reached around her waist again. He grabbed for the bowl on the counter in front of them and then reached for the dry ingredients. Everything they needed was aligned perfectly on the counter and ready to be turned into batter.
He grabbed the utensils and handed Meg the milk. She poured while he whisked the dry ingredients from behind her. She knew it wasn’t necessary for him to work this closely behind her, but God it felt good, how could she possibly object? It was perfect, and she loved every minute of it. Meg smiled to herself appreciatively and threw herself into the moment. They were seducing one another without words while bodies flirted relentlessly.
“There,” he says, happy with the results of the smooth batter. He leaned in closer to Meg, “You see the crepe maker; I want you to be careful, the surface is hot,” he warned. “Now take the bowl.”
Meg followed his simple instructions; her breaths grew short from being so close to him. She gripped the bowl with both hands and Drake covered her hands with his. They poured a little batter onto the hot round surface. Drake adjusted himself behind her, his arousal clearly digging in to her lower back. He didn’t seem to care that she noticed and continued on. Desire worked itself down her body to her aching clit. Her pussy pulsated in reaction to his every touch. Warm liquid spilled and pooled in her panties.
She continued as best as she could when what she really wanted was for him to turn around so she could wrap her legs around that narrowed waist. She needed to get a gri
p on herself because her ability to focus grew extremely difficult.
He took her right hand into his and extended their arms toward the top of the iron griddle, using the spreader, together they smoothed the batter over the entire surface. He worked diligently and quietly behind her. She could feel the warmth of his breath down the side of her neck and next to her ear. So soft and controlled, her awareness heightened when she heard him breathe in her scent. “God, you smell so good, Meggie,” he whispered. His voice was heated and came out a little shaky. He was so close to her ear that she could almost feel his lips on her skin. Meg shivered at his words, at the feel of air escaping his lips when he spoke to her softly. She wanted to respond but wasn’t sure what to say. She wanted to turn her head slightly so that they were face to face, but hesitated because she didn’t want whatever was happening between them to end. The sensations were heady, and she was unable to think clearly.
He released her hand and let go of the spreader. Meg pulled her hand back down and he picked up the spatula and removed the crepe from the surface of the heated griddle and onto the plate to their right before stepping back. She turned then, feeling the coolness of the air when she was no longer enveloped by his warm body heat. Meg immediately tuned in to his arousal. It was as clear as the air between them. Their gaze locked momentarily and then he turned away. “I’ll be right back.” The words came out in a whisper. Meg watched him comb his long fingers through his hair. He looked frustrated before he turned to leave the kitchen. Meg turned back to the counter and grabbed the edge with both hands and tried to steady herself. She took a deep breath inward. What the hell was that all about? She knew if he stayed something would have happened between them. But why did he choose to leave, why didn’t he kiss her?
Eyeing the bananas, she decided to start slicing them into thin pieces while she waited for Drake to return. She had to do something to preoccupy herself. The door creaked open and she looked back over her shoulder. His head was down and his hair was slicked back from water. She turned and her lips curved up into a smile. She knew he had walked away to cool down. There was enough sexual tension in the room between them that it could have lit up all of New York City. At least that’s how Meg was feeling.
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