Forest of the Forbidden

by W. J. May

  He lowered her to the ground. The second her feet touched the floor a wave of dizziness hit. She buried her head against his chest and closed her eyes. This habitual nuisance would not ruin her evening with him. She took a silent deep breath and shook it off.

  He glided his hands down her bare shoulders, sending chills all over her body. “Are you okay?” He eased back, trying to see her face.

  She hugged him tighter. “Yes. I missed being in your arms, that’s all.” She looked up at him, hoping she sounded believable this time.

  Ryan’s eyes narrowed and he forced a smile. “Alright, if you say so.”

  She shut the door and he followed her into the condo. “Gee, you did all this yourself?” He checked out the place and stopped in front of the table set for two. “I’ve never had anyone do this for me.”

  “I did have a little help from Lise.”

  “That was nice of her to help you. Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome. I’ll just put these in some water.” She walked into the kitchen and pulled out a tall chrome vase. She filled it up and arranged the roses.

  She placed them on the dark walnut canaletto dining room table. The silver accents along the top drew her eyes to the center of the shiny vase. “Now the table’s perfect.”

  “You weren’t kiddin’ when you said the view was awesome. Your aunt’s place is kickin’.” Ryan walked over to the tall pane windows in the living room.

  She walked up behind him. “I told you.” The setting sun reflected a warm glow off of Lady Bird Lake into the condo. It set the mood perfectly for a romantic evening.

  “So what’s for dinner? It smells wonderful.”

  “Pasta. Ravioli, filled with chicken, spinach and feta cheese. Which I need to check on,” she said walking back into the kitchen.

  “Sounds delicious.” He followed her and then stopped and picked up her MP3 player. She heard him change the music to a romantic country ballad. He had to be the most romantic guy ever. He walked over to the kitchen and leaned against the black granite bar, right behind her. “Thanks for cooking. I really appreciate it.”

  “Sure, no problem.” She stirred the pasta sauce and turned off the heat. She dipped her finger into the sauce.

  “Hey, be careful, that looks hot,” he said as she tasted the sauce. He took her hand and examined her finger. “You didn’t burn yourself or your tongue?”

  She shook her head. “No.” Then realized what she did wasn’t very smart. Steam swirled up from the pot and the spoon she held in her other hand. She could have burned herself. But she didn’t. Why did her mind turn to mush when she was around Ryan?

  “Is it ready?” He placed her finger in his mouth, sucking off the rest of the sauce.

  Her body clammed up and the spoon slid out of her hand back in the pot. “Ummm...” The slickness of his tongue and the grip of his lips around her finger made her body quiver and shake.

  “Sorry, I couldn’t resist.” He winked and then kissed the top of her hand.

  She smiled, still unable to speak. Why did he insist on teasing her like this?

  He kept her hand in his and placed her other hand around his neck. He swung her around and gazed into her eyes. “May I have this dance?”

  “Sure.” Natalie nodded, completely awestruck by the way he was sweeping her off her feet. “I hope I remember how to two-step.” Her feet stumbled as she tried to recall the steps. She had only danced with him that one time at the bar, but it didn’t take long for her to follow his lead. Their bodies synced perfectly together, sliding across the tile floor.

  “Well Miss Vega, you do know how to two-step.” He danced with her, around the kitchen island, holding her body close to his.

  She followed his every movement, not missing a step. “I guess.” She tilted her head to the side. Her heart beat wildly as they danced around the kitchen and into the dining room. He drove her absolutely crazy.

  He spun her around and then dipped her. He held onto her and sang along with the song, “All I can think about is gettin’ you home.” His deep raspy voice sent a tingling sensation that flowed down to her toes. Not only was he a great dancer but a great singer too.

  Her body cried out for him and she struggled to fight off the forbidden thoughts and temptations. The emotions from her heart took over and she sang back. “Honey, there sure ain’t nothing like you loving me all night long.”

  Ryan’s eyes gleamed in pleasure. “Tonight’s all about giving you what you want.”

  She whimpered low in her throat. “You’re killing me.”

  “And you’re torturing me.” He pulled her up and swept the strands of hair away from her face. She couldn’t stand the tension any longer and apparently, neither could he. Their lips crashed together. His lips devoured hers and she responded feverishly, swirling her tongue with his. He made her hot and filled her body with fire. Never had she felt like this before. There was something different this time, a desire, an attraction, and a need beyond control.

  “Oh my God... your body feels incredible.” She glided her hands over every inch of his well-defined body. She couldn’t get enough of him. He trailed sensual kisses from her neck down to her bare shoulders, giving her tingles from head to toe. She buried her face in the nape of his neck. The sweet and spicy smell of his cologne intoxicated her. She wanted him, despite what they vowed not to do.

  Ryan slid his hands down her back as he continued to caress her shoulders and her neck with his lips. He gave her butt a gentle squeeze and then spread his hands over the sides of her thighs, running his hands up and down. He whispered in her ear, “Your body’s amazing,” and then trailed his tongue down to her collarbone.

  “Oh Ryan...” She whimpered out, running her hands up and down his chest, eager to touch his skin. With one quick sweep she ripped open the pearl snaps from his shirt. She dragged her palms across his hard pecs and up his chest. His skin felt tight and smooth and she wanted to run her tongue up and down him. With little effort he lifted her off the ground, allowing her to wrap her legs around his waist.

  They kissed, tongues fused together until they panted for air. He stumbled around the kitchen and dining area, fighting to keep upright with her clinging to his waist. He pinned her against the wall, pressing his body firmly against hers. His kisses scorched her skin and she moaned in pleasure. He took her hands and braced them up above her head. She throbbed from head to toe and could barely breathe. The sensations were amazing and she thought she might explode at any moment.

  “You are so hot, baby.” He panted, continuing to dominate her with the flicks of his tongue.

  “You have me so...” She nipped at his lip, ready to devour him. Fighting her inner desires was harder than she thought.

  “No. I mean, your body is really burning hot. Are you sure you don’t have a fever?” Ryan pulled back slightly, giving her a quick look over.

  “What? No. I just want you so bad.” Sweat trickled down the sides of her forehead. She was hot, burning hot. Her insides felt like they were on fire. She ignored the heat, eager to show him how much she wanted him.

  “I want you too, baby.” His voice was hot and heavy.

  He released her from the wall and held on to her tightly. She cupped her hands around his face and traced her tongue along his luscious lips. He sealed his mouth to hers, kissing her with intense passion. Her fingers ravaged through his hair, unable to get enough of him. He began making his way to the couch with her in his arms when her foot hit the wine decanter. The bottle hit the floor, splashing red wine all over the mahogany wood floor.

  “Oh crap.” He shook his head. “I’m sorry.” He relaxed his arms and she lowered to her feet.

  “Forget about it.” She guided his mouth back to hers. Never had she been the aggressive one but for some reason she couldn’t control herself. She had to have him.

  He kissed her and then pulled back. “I’m sorry, Natalie. I didn’t mean for us to get this far.... I better go.” He straightened his shirt and sta
rted to button it.

  “No. Please don’t go.” She reached her hand out but he didn’t respond. She covered her face with her hands. She felt terrible for leading him on. The attraction she had for him was beyond containable. Why couldn’t she control herself? She lowered her hands. “I’m sorry. It’s all my fault.”

  “No, it’s my fault. I started it. I should have never licked your finger. I... I can’t control myself when I around you.” He ran his fingers through his matted hair and paced back and forth.

  Her heart ached. Why did wanting him hurt so bad? “I can’t help myself either Ryan. I have no self-control when I’m around you. I can’t wait to talk to you, to see you. I long for you to kiss me, touch me. I’m... ” She swallowed hard. Was this what she thought it was?

  He stopped and looked at her. “I know. I feel it too.” He pulled her into his arms and held her close. So close that she felt his heart beating against her chest.

  He stared deep in to her eyes. So deep that swore his soul touched hers. “I’m falling in love with you, Natalie Vega.”

  She smiled, tears rolling down her cheeks. “So am I, Ryan Garrett.”

  Δ

  * * *

  Chapter 7: The Transformation

  Ryan heard pounding in the faint distance and pulled a pillow over his head. When he heard the knock again he opened his eyes. He jumped up out of bed when he realized the knock came from his front door.

  “Okay, I’m comin’,” he shouted, pulling a shirt over his head and tripping over the covers hanging off the edge of his bed.

  He looked out the peep hole and saw Sal standing outside. He opened the door. “Hey man, what’s up?” He ran his hands through his matted hair.

  “Hey dude, I’ve been texting and calling you since last night. I wanted to make sure you were alright.”

  “Sorry, I guess my phone died.”

  “Can I come in?” Sal took a step forward.

  “Yeah.” Ryan opened the door further. “What time is it?” He walked to the kitchen, squinting to see the clock on the microwave.

  “It’s noon. Were you still asleep?” Sal shut the door behind him.

  Ryan picked up his phone from the bar and plugged it in to the charger. He yawned and shook his head. “Yeah. I guess my body needed sleep from the busy week.”

  “Are you sure it wasn’t from last night with Natalie?” Sal took a seat on the couch and leaned forward with his arms hanging over his knees.

  “What?” Ryan winced and rubbed his eyes with his hands.

  Sal let out a slight smirk and shook his head. “Oh come on, man. You don’t have to lie to me. You didn’t answer your phone all night and you’re just waking up. So much for keeping to your word.”

  Ryan walked to the living room and leaned over on the back of a chair. How could he convince Sal that he spoke the truth? “Man, I’m not lying. My phone died. I got home around eleven last night. And yes, I kept my promise.”

  “So, if I go and check your room, I won’t find her in there?” Sal narrowed his eyes at him.

  Ryan stood up, surprised that Sal didn’t believe him. “No man. Natalie didn’t come home with me.” He pointed toward his bedroom. “Go and check if you like.”

  “So, you didn’t spend the night with her and she didn’t come home with you. Nothing happened.” Sal furrowed his brow, apparently not convinced.

  “Well, I wouldn’t say nothing happened. In fact, things got really heated and... I almost gave in. This is harder than I thought dude. I don’t know how my parents or your parents did it.”

  “I know, it’s not easy.” Sal shook his head.

  “I can’t explain it. When it comes to Natalie, I can’t seem to control myself.” Ryan leaned back over the chair and buried his fingers in his hair. Why was this so difficult? He held out this long and never did it with Jen. Why was it harder when it came to Natalie?

  “It’s hard with any girl. You know that, but I’m proud of you. You kept to your word and walked away.”

  He did feel proud about keeping to his word, but every encounter with Natalie proved to be harder. His attraction for her pulled from deep inside of him. It stirred every emotion and ignited a need that teetered on the edge of uncontrollable recklessness. His love for her spread like a wildfire, consuming him entirely.

  Ryan lowered his hands from his face and looked up at Sal. “Thanks for being my accountability partner.”

  Sal got up and patted him on the shoulder. “That’s what cousins are for.”

  Ryan let out a slight smile, thankful for having Sal not only as his cousin but as a great friend too. They grew up together and were practically brothers. They were there for each other, through good times and bad. Sal supported him when he had his football injury, encouraging him not to give up. He also helped him move on with his life after Jen broke up with him. When Ryan decided he needed a fresh start, Sal urged him to transfer to UT with him. If not for Sal, Ryan didn’t know where he would be today.

  For a second, Ryan felt bad that he hadn’t been supporting his cousin in return. Back in high school, they both pledged to wait until marriage to have sex, following in the footsteps of both their parents. Ryan kept to his promise but Sal slipped when he became serious with his high school girlfriend. After they broke up, Sal decided he would refrain until he married. He wanted to try again and do what was right.

  “What about you and Lise? She seems a little wild and adventurous if you ask me.”

  Sal rolled his eyes. “That’s an understatement. She’s a wild one alright. It’s been a struggle for me too. Since I already know what it feels like, it makes me want to do it again. She’s no virgin either and turning her down is harder for me than it probably is for you turning down Natalie.”

  “I don’t know man, it’s been unbearable. I’ve never struggled like this before. Not even with Jen. There is something about Natalie and it’s not all about the sex. It’s the way she smiles, her wittiness, her scent, her baby blue eyes and the way she hides behind her glasses when she’s nervous. I can’t stop thinking about her. ”

  “Oh no.” Sal’s head dropped down toward the floor.

  “What?” Ryan arched his neck back.

  Sal shook his head. “Dude, listen to yourself. It’s all over for you, man.”

  Ryan knew exactly what he meant. Although he didn’t mind admitting this to his cousin, he didn’t want his vulnerability to show. When it came to Sal, he usually figured things out on his own before Ryan told him. He was very intuitive and thought things through, kind of like Natalie.

  “Don’t worry dude. She’s good for you.” Sal took a handful of shelled peanuts from a bowl on the bar. He cracked one of them and dusted off the fragments from the nut between his thumb and index finger. He popped it in his mouth.

  It made Ryan happy to know Sal approved of Natalie. Sal always warned him about Jen, but he never took his advice seriously. “I tell you, she’s like nobody I ever met before. She might be the one. But time will tell.”

  Sal cracked another peanut. “I can only hope that I’ll be as lucky as you.”

  “So Lise’s isn’t the one?”

  “I don’t know. If I can tame the wildness in her, she might be. I really like being with her. She’s so full of life, funny and outgoing, the complete opposite of me.”

  Ryan walked over to Sal and put his hand on his shoulder. “Then you have a job to do because it sounds like you really like her. When you’re with her, I see a part of you that I’ve never seen before.”

  Sal shrugged his shoulders. “I guess. Yeah, she does make me feel alive. Speaking of, I’m on my way to pick her up. Do you and Natalie want to hang out with us?” He tossed the last peanut in his mouth.

  Ryan gave Sal one more pat and lowered his hand. “I can’t. I have a ton of homework to get caught up on. Besides, I told my boss I would go in this afternoon if she needed my help. I need to check my messages and take a shower.”

  “I’m sure glad I’m in technology and n
ot in marketing. Kronberg is working you guys too much, especially for an internship.” Sal walked into the kitchen and dusted his hands off over the trashcan.

  “Tell me about it. It’s fun and I like it though.”

  “Better you than me. I guess I better go. Lise is waiting on me.”

  “Alright, give me a ring later.”

  Sal opened the door. “I will. See ya.”

  Ryan closed the door behind his cousin and then went over to his phone and turned it on. Sure enough, he had a text from his boss asking him to come and work for a few hours. He also had a text from Natalie, asking him to go to lunch and hang out with her, Lise and Sal.

  He texted his boss and told her that he would be in by two and then dialed Natalie’s number.

  “Hi, I’ve been thinking about you all morning.” Natalie’s voice sounded soothing.

  “Hello, beautiful. Sorry, I slept in. I must have been tired.”

  “That’s okay. I didn’t get up until ten. I must have been tired too.”

  “So are you still at the condo or back at the dorm?”

  “I’m back at the dorm, here with Lise. Do you want to hang out today?”

  Ryan’s shoulders sank and his energy drained from him. He wanted to be with her more than anything but he had to be responsible and do what he needed to do. “I can’t. My boss asked me to come in for a few hours and I also have a ton of homework and reading to catch up on.”

  Natalie let out a sigh. “It’s okay. I understand. I have homework to catch up on too. Maybe we can hang out tomorrow.”

  “Yeah, of course. I’m dying to see ya. In fact, I’m imagining holding you in my arms and kissing your tender lips.”

  “Ryan, Lise is right here,” Natalie whispered.

  “Okay, I know you can’t say anything back.”

  “Oh, I almost forgot. Tomorrow, Lise and I are going shopping for our costumes. Do you want to come with us? Sal’s supposed to come too.”

  “Yeah, that’s fine. I’ll give you a call later when I get back from work.”