by Jenna Tyler
“I think you are wonderful, just as you are. Don't ever doubt yourself.” I blush, and he smiles. “Are you ready to go?” Nodding, I take my hand back to gather my wrap and clutch. He stands, comes around the table, and offers his hand to help me up. I take it once again. He places it in the crook of his arm and we start out of the restaurant, then out of the hotel.
The limo is there, the driver waiting with the door open so we slide right in. He grabs my hand and intertwines our fingers, then places them in his lap. It seems so comfortable and natural.
We pull up outside my apartment building and the driver rushes to open Drew's door. He gets out, I slide over to his waiting hand, and he helps me out. He doesn't let go of my hand as he leads me into the building and over to the elevators. He pushes the button and the doors open. We step aside and wait as a couple walks out. As soon as they see Drew, they stop talking. They keep walking, but take another look back. I know that feeling. Who doesn't want to look at him? It's like he commands attention everywhere he goes. Maybe they recognized him?
He steers me into the elevator with a gentle touch at the small of my back. He selects my floor, the doors close, and we zoom up. How sweet is he to walk me to my door? He’s very much a gentleman. I'm not going to have a heart left if he keeps making it melt.
Arriving at my door, he pulls me into his arms. His lips are quickly on mine, his tongue searching. My insides immediately spark into an inferno. Oh, how I want this man. One of my hands is on his back pulling his body closer; the other is in his hair pulling his lips in harder. Our tongues are infused and can't seem to get enough of each other. My body feels like it's going to combust if I don't get him inside me soon.
My heart is pounding, both our hands are wandering. One of his hands is fisting in my hair, the other on my ass, pulling me into his arousal. Oh, for god’s sake, I want this so bad. I break away abruptly, winded. “We can't do this. Not yet,” I pant out. I have to win this game. He looks…sad. We both struggle to gather our thoughts.
“Rebecca, I know you want to wait a little while...or at least until a second date,” he says with a wink. “But I must tell you that stopping this and staying away from you is probably one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. I feel like I need to be with you.” He almost looks broken. I feel his pain...literally. Deep down in my loins, I am aching for him. I wonder if this is what “blue balls” feels like for men. Oh, my god, it's a horrible feeling. Not only is my body on fire for him, but I feel that need to be with him, as well.
Suddenly, my mind flits back to high school and a couple of guys I may have done this to. I feel guilty. “I know. Me, too,” I respond. “It's overwhelming. I am dying to be with you, but we have to wait. It's just all so fast and you promised you would court me.” A hint of a smile lights up his face.
“I did,” he says. “And I will. I don't want to be away from you, but I will do what it takes to have you as mine.” My heart melts for him again. Oh, this sweet, sweet man. Strange, but sweet…and mine, apparently. I can't resist asking him in for a drink. Stick to your guns, Bec.
We head towards the kitchen, and he takes a seat at my small breakfast bar. Because my feet are killing me, I step out of my shoes. I don't have much to offer him as far as sophisticated wine or anything. I just have what I enjoy. “What would you like to drink?” I ask.
“Whatever you want to make me, Rebecca.”
I grimace. “Well, I don't have much to offer you besides a lemon martini or a buttery nipple, or the regular stuff...coffee, water, milk...”
“I think I'll take a coffee, please.”
“Coming right up, Mr. Chambers! Oh, wait. What kind? I have a variety.”
“Do you have regular decaf?”
“Yes, I do. Coming right up.” I pop a K-cup into the brewer, put a coffee mug underneath, and push the button. “Do you want cream or sugar?”
“No. Just black.” He smiles. “I could get used to this…you waiting on me.”
I roll my eyes at that. “Don't get use to it. This is just for first impressions…or something,” I mutter. “I like getting waited on, too.”
His grin widens. “I could get used to that, as well. Pampering you,” he states and my cheeks pinken.
After conversation and coffee, I figure it’s best for him to go. He's just too tempting in such close proximity. “I've had a lovely evening, Drew, and it topped off a wonderful day.”
I left the coffee mugs in the sink and walk around the breakfast bar, back to where Drew is still perched on the barstool. When I reach him, he stands gracefully. His beautiful blue eyes are piercing into mine. In an effort to gain control of my breathing, I briefly close my eyes. I really don't understand the magnetic pull between us, but when he's near me, my body automatically responds. It's as if I need him like I need air to breathe. I don't get it, but what a feeling. Maybe he was simply made for me.
I open my eyes and he’s smiling. “This feeling is really…different, isn't it?” he asks like he can tell I'm having a hard time with all of this.
“It really is different…a good different, though. I've really never experienced anything like this before.” He steps closer, wrapping one arm around my waist and pulling me into him.
“I'm glad you had a good time. It is my wish to see that you have many, many more of them.” He leans down and nuzzles me behind my ear, then plants a gentle kiss on my cheek. “With me, preferably,” he adds. My core clenches. I rest a hand on his chest and feel that finely-tuned hard body beneath.
“Don't worry,” he says. “I'm leaving. I don't want to and I know you really don't want me to, but I've said I'd wait and I will. I know it will be worth it. You are worth it.” Another tiny piece of my heart just melted away. A little sigh escapes me. I don't know if it's relief or regret. I really want him…I mean, REALLY want him, but waiting is for the best. No good can come out of putting out on the first date. We need to get to know each other better first. Our bodies seem to be in tune with each other. They are raring to go.
“Thank you for respecting my wishes. For the record, I don't want you to go, but it just needs to be this way for now. It will totally be worth the wait.” A wide grin creeps across my face and I blush. A wicked grin is now on his face. I stretch up to give him a kiss and he picks me up off the floor. My first instinct is to wrap my legs around his waist. He growls. Oh, that sound just turns me on even more.
I smile against his lips. He deepens the kiss and turns to place me on the barstool. I let my legs drop once I'm seated, but I still have a tight hold with my arms. I start to loosen them and he ends the kiss. “I'd better get out of here before I break my promise and make you resent me for doing so.”
I take a deep breath. “Yes, that's probably a good idea.” He takes me by the hand and I walk him to the door. I tug his arm just hard enough to make him turn to me. With my free hand, I grab the back of his head and pull him to my lips…a quick and fierce kiss to see him off. That should make him think of me all night long. His lips retreat. I smile.
“Are you trying to get me to stay, Rebecca?”
Grinning, I reach to open the door. “Thank you for a fabulous day...and night. Enjoy the rest of your evening.”
“Thank you for a wonderful day and evening.” He winks and steps out into the corridor.
“Text me when you get home so I know you are safe and sound?”
A childish grin appears. “Really?” he says, and I laugh.
“Yes. Really.”
“Yes, ma'am.” I watch him walk to the elevators. He steps in, then quickly peeks his head out to see if I'm still watching.
A loud chuckle bursts out of me. “Cute!” I yell down at him as the elevator doors close. A deep sigh, a big smile, and I head back in to my apartment. I close the door and collapse into it. Man, that was tough. I mentally high five myself for showing such restraint, then I physically slap my head for being so strong!
Going into my bathroom, I undress, feeling like I need a relaxing b
ath. I get the water running and sprinkle in some coconut-lime bath salts.
Oh, shoot. I forgot my cell. He's supposed to text me when he gets home. I’ll need to respond. I quickly run out to grab my phone and then head back into the bathroom. I place the phone next to the tub and a towel over it so I don't get it wet.
Slipping into the hot water, my feet instantly feel better. They've been busy today and I'm paying for it now. Maybe I will try and find a place that does pedicures on Sundays. That will make them feel better before I go to work on Monday. I sink into the water and hear a buzz. I look at my phone. A text from Drew. I smile as I read it.
Drew: I'm home, safe and sound.
Me: Thank you for letting me know
I put my phone back down next to the tub and, as soon as my hand goes back under the water, it alerts me to another text message. I dry my hand off again.
Drew: Thank you for caring.
I grin.
Me: You are more than welcome. Now let me get back to my bath.
Before I even set the phone back down, it goes off again.
Drew: You're naked?
Me: Yes. I typically bathe naked. I find it more comfortable that way.
Drew: Ha ha. You shouldn't have told me you were in the bath. I won't get any work done now.
Biting my bottom lip, I wonder if I should egg him on more. It's fun to make a man squirm. What harm can come of it? He's at home, I'm at home, and I've got my toys to get me off. I decide to have a little fun with him.
Me: Would you rather I just blurt out that I'm about to masturbate?
I giggle. So much for my relaxing soak. I guess I won't be falling asleep any time soon. My phone buzzes again. I can't help but get excited to see what he says.
Drew: I could have done without that information, as well. You know, I could have stayed so you don't risk electrocution.
With a roll of my eyes, a huge smile spreads across my face. I can't get enough of this man and I haven't even had him yet. One day with him and I am completely smitten. I text back.
Me: Don't worry about me. I'll be fine. I will be...taken care of.
I'm not sure if my smile can get much bigger. I can just imagine him in his fancy gray suit, pacing around a lavish home office, waiting for my responses that are driving him mad. I can't resist texting him again.
Me: What are you wearing?
It takes a little longer for his response. I bet he deleted everything he had already typed. And I wonder if he's caught on that I have now turned the tables.
Drew: I'm still in my suit.
Me: What are you doing?
Anxiously awaiting his response, I reach over into my “toy drawer” that I have just in case the need arises while I'm in the tub. I don't want to make a mess getting out and going to my bedroom to get a toy. It’s easier to just keep a little vibrating friend within easy reach. My phone buzzes.
Drew: Walking around my office and texting you. Getting frustrated.
I bark out the biggest laugh I think I've had in a long time. That is simply too funny. I wish I could be a fly on his wall. I wonder how long I can resist him. I just met him, but it’s super hard already. A few hours with Drew and I'm ready to climb his lean, sculpted body to have my way with him. Well, shit, Bec. You were ready for that at first sight in the deli. With feigned innocence, I text back.
Me: Why are you pacing around your office? You should relax.
He responds quickly.
Drew: You are driving me mad, woman!
Me: Don't go mad. Your time will come.
Drew: Ugh. Stop teasing me already!
Me: Ok. I'll let you be. Sleep tight. ;-)
Oh, my god. Did I just winky face him? Well, it's young and playful. Who cares? Another text comes through.
Drew: I will leave you to your...devices. For now. I'm not happy about it, though.
Me: Goodnight, Drew.
Drew: Goodnight, Rebecca.
I settle back into the water and put my toy to good use.
Eight
After yesterday's events, I plan to take it easy today and make sure I have everything set to start my new job tomorrow. Good thing I had washed my scrubs ahead of time. I don't think I'd want to do it today. I don't even think I want to get that pedicure because that would require walking. My feet just can't handle it right now. I just want to veg, read, and let Drew soak into my brain. Mmm, Drew.
While I'm having my morning coffee and cereal, I grab my phone to see if there are any messages. Two missed calls and six texts. Wow. That's a busy phone day for me. I see the calls are from my daughter, one from last night and one from this morning. I totally forgot I was supposed to let her know how the date went. I got a little side-tracked last night, to say the least. I listened to the voicemail she left.
“MOM! Why aren't you answering your phone? Are you okay? You have me worried now! Call me back!” I roll my eyes. A taste of her own medicine is good for her. She can see what I've gone through worrying about her all these years. I’ll make her stew a little longer, and will call her back in a little bit.
Checking the texts, I see two are from Alyssa asking about the date and if I'm okay. Three are from Charlie, first to ask how the date went, then starting to freak from no response from me…hence the phone calls. One text is from Drew. My heart starts beating faster, my face heats up, and my stomach turns into a knot.
Drew: Good morning, beautiful.
The grin that spreads across my face won't be leaving anytime soon. What a wonderful way to start the morning. I stare at the phone with my stupid grin and caress it with my thumb.
Me: Good morning, handsome.
I remember our texts from last night and I giggle at the thought of him pacing around his office, hot and bothered. Well, maybe just bothered.
Once I finish up my breakfast and put the dishes in the dishwasher, I look around the apartment to see if anything needs to be done. All of a sudden, I feel like cleaning. I head over to my stereo and plug in my iPod. I pick my playlist that has the happiest songs on it and turn it up, but not too loud because I don't want to piss off the neighbors. I grab the vacuum and just do a quick pass around the apartment. A clean carpet makes it look so much better. Who doesn't love the lines left by a vacuum?
I dance around, working up a light sweat and singing horribly. My feet are protesting after yesterday's events, but I'm in such a great mood that I barely notice them. When I finish up, there's not much else to do. I turn the music off and head over to my bookshelf, skimming over the titles to see if there is anything I want to read again. Maybe I will download a book to my Kindle. As I ponder which I would rather do, I hear my phone buzz, indicating that I have a text.
Drew: How did you sleep?
Me: Like a rock. You?
Drew: Not as well as you, I guess.
Me: Maybe you should get some devices of your own.
I laugh.
Drew: Not funny. I don't need them. I will have you in my bed soon enough.
My mouth drops open. Was that a challenge, or was he just stating a fact? I mean, I know it will happen eventually. Oh, who am I kidding? It will be soon, but he doesn't know that. And he doesn't need to be cocky about it.
Me: Is that a challenge, Mr. Chambers?
Drew: Definitely not, Ms. Michaels. I have this feeling that you are strong-willed, and I don't want to prolong it any longer than necessary.
I laugh out loud. He is such a fun pain in the ass.
Me: Good to hear.
Drew: Does that mean we can have our second date tonight?
Me: It's a school night.
Drew: What are your plans for today then?
Me: Just hanging out in my apartment.
Drew: Would you like to do something with me?
Me: I kind of wanted to stay in today.
Drew: Can I come over?
I giggle. He's being so cute. This would have been easier to do with a phone call. My head would swim, though, just listening to his voice.
Me: I guess so, but I'm not doing anything here, either.
Won’t it be really boring for him?
Drew: We can talk and get to know each other more. I'll be over in an hour.
Me: OK
I didn't think it was possible for my smile to get wider, but it does. Now I get to veg with Drew. I wonder if he's ever sat around and done nothing. The thought seems silly to me. I’m sure he has. At least my apartment is clean. It's so easy to keep a place clean when there are no kids around.
Oh! I should call Charlie before he gets here. I pick up the phone. Anticipating the yelling that will come from the other end of the line, I hold the phone away from my ear.
“MOOOOOOOM!!” she screeches. When I hear the yelling die down, I put the phone to my ear. “Do you have anything to say?”
Smiling, I say, “Good morning, sweetheart.”
“Mom, you were supposed to call me last night after you got home from your date. I've been worried sick.”
“Honey, I am forty-years-old. I think I can handle myself.”
“That's not the point. You should answer your phone when I call you.”
I laugh. “Honey, I was already in bed when you called last night. Anyway, I believe I've been preaching that same line to you since you got your own phone, yet it still doesn't seem to work.”
