by Desiree Holt
Chapter 2
Around lunch time Sara searched the hospital floor for Anna. It didn’t take her long to find the enigmatic woman.
Before Sara even had a chance to call her name, Anna turned and waved. Her spiked, platinum hair was in its usual disarray. She wore way too much make up, but somehow she managed to pull it off. With her petite features and confident demeanor, she was gorgeous. Even though she was tiny, there was something fierce about her personality that would make anyone think twice before crossing her.
Sara waved and called out, “Do you have time for lunch?”
Anna closed the chart in her hands with a smile. “Of course, give me ten minutes, I was just about to go on break, and hoping to run into you today.”
Sara found a chair, and eased herself down while she checked her phone. Still nothing from Adam. To make sure he wasn’t dead in a ditch somewhere she sent him a text, but there was no reply. He was probably sleeping off a hangover or in the middle of pleasuring his conquest. Sara’s stomach rolled.
Thankfully, Anna approached before Sara’s mind continued to wander down the dark path.
They walked across the street to one of the local delis. Sara had soup and salad, and Anna had a huge loaded baked potato with a slice of chocolate cake.
“Must be nice to be young and not worry about what you eat.” Sara laughed as she looked down at her salad with disgust.
“You really need to live a little. Life could be over before you know it.” Anna took a huge mouthful of her cake. “Besides, you’re not that old for crying out loud and your body is perfection.”
Shaking her head, Sara said, “I can always count on you to make me feel better.”
Anna stared at Sara for a long moment studying her. Then suddenly she frowned. “What’s going on? Is it that cocksucker of a husband again?”
Sara pushed her soup around before glancing up. Why did she have to bring up the one thing Sara was trying like hell not to think about? Instead of changing the subject she found herself answering honestly. “He didn’t even bother to come home last night. No call. Nothing.”
Anna shook her head annoyed. “Why are you still with that prick? I don’t care who he is or what team he plays for. You’re a beautiful woman, you could have any man you wanted or screw that, you don’t even need a man.”
“It’s not that easy, Anna. I took vows.” Sara released a heavy sigh, a sense of despair seeped into her cells.
“Yea, and a lot of good that did you.” Anna shoved the rest of the cake across the table. “Eat the damn cake.”
Sara glanced down at the thousand calorie desert. It did look good and smelled amazing. She pulled it closer and pushed away the salad. “Let’s just talk about something else. What about you? Are you seeing anyone new?”
“I don’t do relationships.” Anna smirked over her cup. “You know what, you’re coming with me tonight. There is this masquerade party. It’s in another town so no one will know you. I’m not taking no for an answer.”
Masquerade? The anonymity of it was appealing. “I don’t know, Anna…”
“You’re going. Wear something sexy and don’t forget your mask. I’ll pick you up at eight. It’s a long drive.”
Sara laughed before taking a bite of the cake. “I guess I’m going to a party tonight.”
* * *
Sara finished out her day and went home to an empty house.
Still nothing from Adam. Asshole. Sara poured herself a drink and then headed upstairs. She didn’t have much time before Anna would arrive.
Despite herself, Sara was excited about going out. If nothing else, she knew she would enjoy Anna’s company.
After a quick shower, Sara began the search of what to wear. Something sexy. She laughed at the thought. The complete opposite of the look she went for. Normally she tried to dress conservatively.
Her phone buzzed, and Sara glanced over. It was a text from Adam. Sorry, babe. Late night with the guys. I won’t be home tonight either.
With a grimace, Sara grabbed the phone and debated how to reply finally she went with. I’m sure you’re enjoying yourself. I’ll see you tomorrow.
Best. Wife. Ever.
Sara flipped off the phone but didn’t bother to respond, and instead went back to the search.
Eventually, she decided on a sheer black dress. Normally she would have worn a black slip under it, but tonight she said the hell with it. After all, Anna said no one would know her. For one night, she could pretend she was daring. She rifled through her underwear until she found a black lace thong. After a slight hesitation, she decided to go without a bra. She’d never been in public without a bra—just the thought made her excited. She left her hair down, put on minimal make-up and grabbed the mask she’d picked up on the way home. She twirled around in front of the mirror feeling young and sensual. Exhilarated.
It surprised her to find she was getting turned on by the whole idea of acting like she was someone else. Maybe she would even make up a fake name. How fun would that be? Something exotic. She might need Anna’s help for that one. She went downstairs and poured herself another drink as she waited for Anna. Sara glanced down at the huge rock on her finger, thought of Adam fucking a younger woman, and took her ring off and set it on top of the counter. Just for tonight she was going to experience the freedom her husband felt on a regular basis.
Tonight she was no one’s wife. A horn went off, startling Sara. Laughing she grabbed her mask and ran outside, her chest bounced up and down which caused her to smile.
“Wow, you look hot.” Anna whistled in approval.
Sara’s face flushed. “Thanks, I feel good, I’m glad you talked me into going out.” She grinned as she slid into the seat. “I think it’s just what I need.”
They chatted the whole drive, which was well over an hour away. Sara was surprised when they turned down a large winding driveway. It was gated but the gate was open. They pulled up to a huge mansion that made her own house look quaint. It was beautiful stone with wooden accents and massive windows. They could see people dressed up, mulling around in their masks.
“Oh, tonight I don’t want to be Sara. Think of a name for me.”
Anna laughed. “I like this new you. Why not just use Sandra—that sounds alluring, doesn’t it? And it’s close enough you might remember it?”
“Sandra. I didn’t even think of that. I like it.”
Anna grabbed her arm and they headed up the beautiful walkway lined with lights.
Once they stepped through the door, Sara’s mouth dropped open. She shot Anna a look. It took her a moment to compose herself.
Lowering her voice, she leaned in, “Anna, what kind of party is this?”
A wicked grin spread across her impish face. “A fun one. Come on, I promise it will be fine.”
Deep down she knew she should turn and run the other way, but Sara found her curiosity outweighed her discomfort.
Chapter 3
Sara’s eyes darted around. Music blared, couples were dancing, people were talking. Like most parties. The main difference was the people were openly all over each other. There was more than one couple having sex on the dance floor, and two women were making out up against a wall. A few of the groups were of three or more, obviously enjoying themselves. Some were completely nude, only wearing masks. It took all of her self-control not to openly gape. Surely her face was flushed crimson. Thank goodness for the mask. Over and over she reminded herself, you are not yourself tonight. Relax and have fun. She kept repeating the words like a mantra in her head.
“Let’s get a drink, or three.” She grabbed Anna and made their way to the bar.
The bartender looked like he belonged in a Calvin Klein ad wearing nothing but a loose pair of jeans. His hair was dirty blond and shaggy. The guy couldn’t have been over twenty-one. His mask only covered one side of his face. Anna shamelessly flirted with him and he didn’t seem to mind. Sara had to look away while Anna sucked a lemon from the kid’s fingers.
Think of yourself as Sandra tonight, play the part. She needed to be bold and daring. Glancing around, she didn’t see anyone that really caught her interest. Although it was hard to really tell because everyone seemed paired up. Maybe if she pretended like she was single and out on the prowl it might help. That made her laugh. She’d never really been single, and definitely never on the prowl.
Someone tapped her on her shoulder and she turned around smiling, adjusting her mask to her face. You have to be kidding me.
In front of her stood a short, balding, chubby guy with glasses. He was holding a mask by his side. She imagined it was hard to wear a mask with glasses. “I noticed you standing by yourself so I decided to keep you company.”
“I’m quite fine, but thank you for checking up on me.” Sara smiled sweetly before turning back around.
“Can I buy you a drink?” he said, moving around so he was in front of her.
“I’m pretty sure the drinks are free,” Sara said, trying to hide her annoyance.
“Would you like to dance? I’m a great dancer.” He pushed his glasses back on his pudgy face.
Where the hell did Anna go?
“Maybe later.” Please help me, Sara thought trying not to laugh.
A deep voice startled her. “Honey, is this man bothering you?”
Sara turned to see the face that went with the voice. Her stomach dropped. This man was drop dead gorgeous. Wavy black hair, pale green eyes, and chiseled features. Thank goodness he wasn’t wearing a mask, it would be a shame to hide that face.
He repeated himself. “Is he bothering you?”
Glancing over at the man, she could see the fear in his eyes. “He’s harmless. It seems he just came over to offer to buy me a drink.”
The stranger’s endless green eyes bore into her own, and an unfamiliar wave of emotion came over her. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it. Lust?
On impulse, Sara walked over and linked her arm through the man’s arm. Well, that was bold and daring, she thought, bewildered. It was almost as if she didn’t have control of herself.
He looked down and stared intently into her eyes as if he was reading her soul. “Sorry, chap, but she’s with me tonight.” He pulled her across the room and down a long hallway. They walked in silence, the loud music like a soft echo in the background. Sara was only aware of the feel of his skin against hers and the pulse beat in her neck. Her stomach fluttered with butterflies. Where was he taking her? And why wasn’t he saying anything?
“Take off the mask.” His voice was low, but left no room for argument.
Without thinking, Sara removed the mask. So much for hiding herself.
Could she really do this? An image of her husband in a hotel room with another woman flashed before her eyes. She could and she would, if the opportunity presented itself.
“What’s your name?” The deep timber of his voice sent a thrill through her body. This was almost too good to be true.
You’re not yourself tonight. You’re not yourself. “Sandra. And yours?”
“Jonathan. I’ve never seen you here before. You have a face that one could not forget.”
Trying to keep her voice calm, she said, “This is my first time. Anna brought me.”
He smiled, showing off a single dimple in the left side of his face. “Anna is a wonderful girl.”
Sara wondered where they were going. The hallway seemed to be endless. Was he taking her to a bedroom? Panic raced through her. A few deep breaths helped steady her nerves. She wasn’t naive but she didn’t expect things to move this quickly. Maybe she was over thinking and he was taking her to another section of the party. A quick glance behind her told her there was no one else on this wing of the house, at least, not that she could see or hear, the house was huge.
There was no sense in getting concerned. Besides, she could always say no.
Chapter 4
Abruptly Jonathan came to a stop. In one smooth motion he pushed her up against the wall. Leaning down he whispered in her ear. His warm breath on her skin sent a shiver down her spine. “You’re simply breathtaking.”
It had been so long since Sara last heard a compliment from a man, she was putty in his hands. In that moment she would have done anything he asked. Reaching up, Sara ran her trembling fingertips down his jaw and then slowly traced his full lips with her finger, which parted slightly at her touch. Dear god, could she really go through with this? She was a married woman for crying out loud.
He pressed his body up against hers and she could feel his hard cock on her thigh. A sense of power coursed throughout her being. This beautiful man wanted her. Needed her. Even if it was only in the moment, she couldn’t walk away now, even if she wanted. Not that she did. It was almost a compulsion, the desire. She’d never felt such a strong pull before, not even with Adam. Well, maybe with Adam, at least when they first met. Now that seemed like a lifetime ago. Her mind was zeroed in on this man before her and everything else was a blur.
Something in the back of her mind told her something wasn’t right, but she ignored it.
She sucked her breath in sharply as his large hand cupped her breast. All of her doubts and fears fell away instantly. As if she were a blank slate and it was only the two of them, no past, no future, just now.
Instinctively, she rubbed her hand slowly up the length of his thick cock through the fabric of his pants. Leaning down he kissed her deeply, his thumb grazing her nipple, His other hand gripped her ass. His kiss was intense, leaving her breathless, with a dull throbbing between her thighs. When they finally broke away, his eyes locked on hers.
Goosebumps spread across her skin as he lightly ran his mouth along her neck. Oh god. Sara threw her head back and pushed her breast against him, losing any sense of control.
He yanked her dress up and rubbed her clit slowly through the fabric of her panties. He pushed them aside as he dipped his fingers deep into her slick fold. She moaned out with pleasure.
A door slammed, bringing her back to her senses. Appalled at herself, Sara pulled back, covering her face. “I shouldn’t….”
He placed both hands on the side of her face. “I didn’t mean to come on so strong. I just couldn’t help myself.”
Sara felt her body relax.
“There is someone I want you to meet.” Jonathan grabbed her hand.
“Okay.” Sara smoothed down her dress and ran her hands through her hair. My god, she nearly had sex with a complete stranger. If it hadn’t been for that door she was certain she wouldn’t have stopped him.
“Sara, you’re safe with me.”
She glanced up quickly. She’d told him her name was Sandra, hadn’t she? Maybe the drink she had was stronger than she’d thought.
Jonathan led her the rest of the way down the long hallway, making a couple of turns. Eventually he stopped before a large double door. There were two larger men standing on either side of the doorway. Without saying a word, they pulled open the door for them. Sara thought it was rather odd, but didn’t say anything. Wealthy people tended to be a bit eccentric.
When the double doors opened, Sara gasped.
There were a couple of dozen people in the room. They were gorgeous, all of them. But that wasn’t what caused her reaction. Along with people there were tigers, lions, wolves and some animals she wasn’t sure what they were. The wild animals were just laying around, and no one was at all concerned, they weren’t even chained up.
Her body went taunt.
Jonathan smiled down at her, “There’s nothing to be afraid of. As I said, you are safe with me.”
His words should have put her at ease, but they did little to calm the fear she felt building inside. He might be a powerful man, but not even he could hold his own against a wild beast.
“Sara, relax. We are amongst friends here.” His voice had a calming effect, and his piercing eyes seemed to speak to her soul. Her body relaxed, and his gr
ip tightened around her hand.
God, she felt like she was losing her mind. Maybe she was. Once he was sure she was calmed enough, Jonathan lead her toward an exotic brunette. She was tall and shapely, her face perfection with full pouty lips and high cheek bones set off by her startling pale blue eyes. There was an attractive, shirtless man on each side of her. “What do we have here, Jonathan?”
“I wanted you to meet Sara.” Jonathan put his arm around her waist and pulled her closer. The move made her uncomfortable. She could sense the possessiveness in him.
Sara smiled up at the woman and extended her hand. “Nice to meet you.”
The woman took her hand, her hand warm and soft. “Likewise. I’m glad my husband has found a plaything.”
“Your husband?” Sara choked out before pulling her hand back.
Jonathan’s hand squeezed her waist.
The woman threw back her head laughing, “Don’t worry, darling, we have an open marriage. My husband is very fickle and rarely finds anyone that interest him.” She starred at Sara for a long moment. “I can see why he would be drawn to you, there is something very vulnerable in you. My name is Olivia. Make yourself at home.”
Sara didn’t particularly like being called vulnerable, but that was the least of her concerns.
Her eyes snapped to Jonathan’s, and the side of his mouth quirked up. He was finding her discomfort amusing.
A part of her wanted to run like hell and get as far away from this crazy place as she could, but mostly she was curious. What kind of man was he, and who in their right mind had vicious animals as pets? The idea of an open marriage was strange to Sara, but there was a lot more respect in that then cheating.
Sara let out a scream when she felt fur rub up against the back of her leg. Turning, her whole body stilled as she stared down, terrified at the tiger gazing back at her. There was intelligence in those eyes, but there were also very large teeth set in a powerful jaw.
