Sapphire Attraction (The Drakes of California)

by Zuri Day

  Quinn followed Ike Sr.’s gesture to a handsome, smartly dressed man with an equally attractive woman beside him. As he continued thanking various executives and department heads, Quinn studied the crowd and noted that every Drake mentioned had a woman beside him. Everyone except Ike.

  “Last but first is the reason for my breathing.”

  This comment got Quinn’s attention. She refocused on the CEO.

  “My lady love, my partner for the last thirty-six years and counting, who I love more today than I did all those years ago, Jennifer Drake. Baby, come up and say something.”

  Jennifer shook her head.

  “Come on, now. People want to see you in that nice outfit. Give her a hand, folks, as she obeys my orders and heads this way.”

  As expected, Jennifer stopped midstride and gave Ike Sr. a look. The goading and teasing went full force as she laughingly joined her husband. After her brief comments, the party resumed. Quinn hurried forward.

  “Mr. Drake?”

  He turned. “Yes.”

  “Hi. I’m Quinn Taylor.”

  “Good to meet you, Quinn Taylor!” He greeted her enthusiastically while shaking her outstretched hand with one of his big paws, waving at someone else with the other and smiling at an employee who walked by. Five seconds in the presence of this warm, gregarious man and it was clear to Quinn why Drake Realty Plus was a success. “You’re the speed demon who jacked my son’s car all up, right? Was ordered to our office to work off your punishment.”

  “Guilty as charged, sir,” Quinn said, liking Ike Sr. more as each second passed. “Although I take exception to being called a demon.”

  “Ha!”

  “I was actually an angel, saving a doggy’s life.”

  “Hope that little critter was worth what happened as a result.”

  “It definitely would have been cheaper to kill him.”

  Ike Sr. laughed heartily. “You sure are your father’s daughter.”

  “Ike mentioned that you know him.”

  “Only casually. We’ve had a battle or two on the golf course, and sat on a committee together several years ago. Haven’t seen him lately, though. How’s he doing?”

  “He’s good, sir.”

  “Next time you talk to him, give him my regards.”

  “I definitely will. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you. I’m leaving but wanted to wish you happy birthday.”

  “Where are you going? The fun is just beginning.”

  No, the fun started when Audrey saw me talking to Ike. “I’m going to spend time with my grandmother. Make sure I’m there in case she needs me.”

  “Well, now. I can’t knock that. You take care.”

  Quinn made a beeline for the door. Ike must have been watching, because before she got halfway to her car, he was calling her name.

  “Hey.” He caught up with her. “Where are you going?”

  “Home.” She continued walking toward her car.

  He fell into step beside her. “Why?”

  “Because I don’t want to hang out in a roomful of people I don’t know.”

  “That’s fair. What were you and my father discussing?”

  “Keeping tabs on me, huh?”

  “That probably wouldn’t be a bad idea,” he muttered.

  “I went over to wish him a happy birthday before leaving.”

  “Oh.”

  They reached her car. He opened the door. “Be safe. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

  “Goodbye.”

  He leaned over for a hug. “No, no, no,” she half chastised, half teased. “I found out earlier that hugging you publicly is off-limits.”

  “I wasn’t expecting it,” he explained. “And I’m not much for PDA.”

  “Especially when your ex is watching?”

  “There was that, too.”

  “At least you’re honest.” She looked at him. “Are you going to move so that I can get into my car?”

  “After I get a hug?”

  She grinned devilishly. “I’ll give you a hug, but only if you give me a kiss.”

  Fully expecting him to deny her, she was shocked when he said, “Okay.”

  It wasn’t a kiss. It was an experience.

  He gently touched her lips with his, then rubbed left and right. A delicious friction, something innocent and romantic. Another kiss followed, more pressure this time. His fingers gently massaged the nape of her neck. He stopped. Looked into her eyes. Lowered his head again. This time, when their lips touched, he swiped across them with his tongue. Hard. Demanding. She’d barely opened her mouth before he plundered it with his tongue. Swirling. Flicking. Sucking her tongue into his mouth. Methodically, meticulously, he kissed her. Quinn felt her core quiver. She placed a hand on his chest, her breathing uneven.

  “You okay?”

  Not at the moment. Did this man almost just kiss me into a climax? In the parking lot? “I’m fine.”

  “Be safe.”

  “You, too.”

  Quinn relived his kisses the entire way home and knew that nothing in Paradise Cove would ever be the same again.

  Chapter 15

  “Are the two of you dating? It’s none of my business, but you knew I’d ask.”

  “No, we’re not dating.”

  It was a little after eleven o’clock. Against his better judgment, Ike had given in to Audrey’s plea to stop by after leaving the Drake Community Center for coffee and a chat. She’d pointed out that they hadn’t seen much of each other lately because of the Ten Drake Plaza deal, which was true. But he also knew that Quinn would be the topic of conversation. He’d agreed, figuring that tonight was as good a time as any to have the discussion and be done with it. Now that it was actually happening, though, he realized he’d much rather be in bed. Or with Quinn. Or both.

  “Do you want to date her? It would be easy to see why if you did. She’s a beautiful woman.”

  “Yes, she’s gorgeous. No doubt about that.”

  “But she’s so young—what, twenty-two or -three?”

  “Twenty-five.”

  “She doesn’t seem like your type. But then again, women like her have a way with anyone possessing a penis.”

  “What does that mean?”

  “No need to jump to her defense. That wasn’t meant to be derisive.”

  “It sounded rather derisive, Audrey.”

  “I think I need something stronger than coffee.” She walked over to her bar. “Care for some liqueur in your cup?”

  “No, I’m good. Thanks.”

  “I watched her interact with your mom and dad. She’s bubbly and flirty, knows what to say to make a man feel good. People period, probably.”

  “Is that a bad thing?”

  Audrey finished mixing her drink and instead of sitting in the chair she’d left, joined Ike on the couch. “No, it’s a definite asset. One that has obviously worked on you.”

  Ike couldn’t think of any response to that bomb of a sentence that wouldn’t cause it to explode, so he remained quiet.

  “No denial?”

  “Audrey...”

  “No, Ike. Don’t feel uncomfortable. I’m not asking this as the jealous ex, but as your friend. That’s what we were before we started dating, and that’s what we agreed to be now. If you’d rather not discuss her, fine. I’ll understand. It’s just that I saw how you looked at her when she wasn’t watching. Afterward, I tried to remember a time when you looked at me that way. And I couldn’t.”

  “I don’t know what you want me to say.”

  “You don’t have to say anything. But as your friend, and someone who still loves you probably more than I should, I want to say this to you. Be careful.”

  “Audrey, I’m n
ot dating the girl, all right?”

  “I know. I hear you. Even so, I still want to say it. I don’t have anything against her. I don’t know her personally. But I know women like her. And even more, I know you. I know how you love. I don’t want to see you hurt. And a woman like her...will crush you.”

  Ike nodded, finished his coffee and stood.

  She did, too. “Now I’ve run you off. I’m sorry.”

  “Not at all. If you’ll remember, part of my argument in not stopping by was the work I have waiting for me at home.” They reached the door. He turned and gave her a light kiss on the forehead.

  “I’ll always love you, Audrey, and treasure our friendship. But in the future, the details of our love lives—who, what and why we’re dating, things like that—are topics that we probably shouldn’t discuss.”

  “Okay.”

  “You are my friend, and I believe your concern is genuine. But our history of being more than friends makes it uncomfortable to talk about these things with you.”

  “I understand. I hope you’ll be patient with me. For almost ten years you’ve been the best friend with whom I’ve shared everything, and I haven’t had to censor myself.”

  “We’re still friends. There’s just one topic that’s off-limits.”

  “So if I ask whether or not you’re going to the masquerade ball, because I was thinking we could go together, you’d say no and not tell me you have a date, or...?”

  “What I’d say is...sure, Audrey, we can go together.”

  “Fantastic.” She gave him a hug. “We’ll talk later about costumes. Don’t work too hard.”

  On the way out, Ike wrestled with the hurt he’d seen in Audrey’s eyes when she mentioned the way he’d looked at Quinn. Even though he didn’t have any idea of what look she was talking about, he felt bad. Which was why he’d taken the topic off the table. Yes, they had been best friends. Yes, they had once shared everything. But things were different now. Audrey was a good woman and deserved the marriage and family she craved. Ike’s desire was elsewhere and growing stronger with every encounter. As soon as Quinn’s internship was over, he’d make his move.

  The ringing cell phone startled Ike out of thought. He sighed, knowing how abruptly he’d left Audrey’s house. It was probably her. Except the caller ID showed a number he didn’t recognize. Who’d be calling this time of night? He let it go to voice mail. When his message indicator dinged, he immediately hit Playback. When the melodic voice came through the speakers, his heart clenched.

  “Ike, it’s Quinn. I had a quick question and was hoping to catch you. Maybe you’re still at the party, or on a booty call. Who knows?” She laughed. “At any rate, give me a call when you can. Thanks.”

  Ike hit Redial, smiling like a teenage geek who’d just scored the cheerleader. “Hello, Quinn.”

  “Hey, Ike. That was fast. What, didn’t recognize my number and sent me to voice mail?”

  “I sent whoever it was to voice mail—couldn’t imagine who’d be calling this late.”

  “You didn’t know who, or you didn’t know which one. Never mind, don’t answer that. It’s none of my business.”

  “You’re right. It isn’t your business. But the answer at any rate was my initial statement. I didn’t know who it was.”

  “How’d the party turn out?”

  “You should have stayed and seen for yourself.”

  “I wasn’t up for an evening of small talk with strangers. I did enjoy meeting your dad, who wasn’t present when Grandmother introduced your family. He is such a hoot! Your mom is nice, too, and genuine.”

  “They’re good people.”

  “I clearly made Audrey uncomfortable. When I left, she probably breathed a sigh of relief.”

  “I only saw her introduce herself. Was there another conversation?”

  “No, only that one, and signs that perhaps only another woman would recognize. Even without a sign, heck, being with someone for ten years can’t be something gotten over quickly. And then having to constantly see that person? Definitely a small-town downside.”

  “Actually, it hasn’t been that often. I’ve practically lived at the office, and when I’m not there I’m usually at home.”

  “What a boring life, Ike! Dude...we’ve got to get you a life. Which is why I’m calling, actually.”

  “To give me a life? I’ve already got one, thank you, and while it may sound ho-hum to you, it works for me.”

  “If it works for you, I’m glad you’re happy. Does that mean you’re going to pass on the masquerade ball?”

  “No, I’ll be there.”

  “Great! I’ll be there, too.”

  Not so great, Ike thought, since he’d be there with Audrey.

  “You’re coming with Mrs. Newman?”

  “No, Grandmother isn’t planning to attend. I’m bringing my best friend, who’ll arrive that weekend. What about you?”

  “Audrey asked if I’d escort her. I told her I would.”

  “Well, don’t sound so sad about it, for heaven’s sake.”

  “I’m not sad. Just wondering if agreeing to take her was a good idea.”

  “Why, because she’s still in love with you?”

  “I didn’t want to think so, but yes. If I’d been thinking clearly, I would have asked you.”

  “Hmm.”

  “What does that mean? Can’t see yourself out with the boring old guy?”

  “That kiss showed me that there’s a part of you that isn’t boring at all.”

  “I’d like to show you more. But I’ll save that discussion for later. What are you doing on Sunday?”

  “I don’t know. Why?”

  “The birthday celebration will continue with a barbecue at my brother’s ranch. I’d love for you to come.”

  “Is this another company thing?”

  “No, more casual, just the family and close friends.”

  “Including Audrey?”

  “No. You’d be my special guest.”

  “I like feeling special, Mr. Drake. So my answer is yes.”

  Chapter 16

  On Sunday, Quinn arrived at Ike’s brother Warren’s ranch located in an unincorporated area next to Paradise Cove called Paradise Valley. She was accompanied by her grandmother, who had insisted on driving, since Quinn’s license was still restricted. Maggie made it clear that she wouldn’t be an accomplice to her granddaughter breaking the law. Almost a dozen cars were parked in the large, paved lot. Maggie eased the trusty sedan she’d been driving for fifteen years into an empty space and cut the motor.

  “I know they said not to bring anything,” she said, reaching into the back for a container of cookies. “But showing up empty-handed simply isn’t polite.”

  The two women reached a sidewalk that began at the lot and continued around the side of a large, stately home with a wide front porch. They followed the sound of voices until they reached a backyard that seemed to stretch for a mile. Several round tables covered with white tablecloths and decorated with vases of freshly cut flowers were set up on a temporary floor under an open tent in the center of the yard. The day was sunny but crisp. Tall space heaters had been strategically placed among the tables to ward off the chill. Long rectangular tables were on either side of this grouping, loaded with covered trays and dishes. Smaller tables adjacent to one of the longer tables held drinks and desserts. Beyond the table settings and beside a large oak tree were a swing, sandbox and toys where several children played. Adults sat laughing and talking at the tables.

  At the same time Quinn saw Ike standing near the play area with two other men, she spotted Jennifer and another woman coming out of the house. Quinn waved at Jennifer but walked toward Ike. Even with the grass mown so well it resembled carpet, she chose her steps carefully. She’d alr
eady made one grand entrance, at the Days of Paradise ball. She didn’t want to fall down in her three-inch wedge sandals and be the star attraction again. One of the men Ike was with alerted him of her approaching. He looked up. A slow smile spread across his face, so sexy that even with her concentrated effort to remain upright, her shoe hit a slight dip and she stumbled.

  Ike was at her side in an instant. “You okay?”

  “I’m fine,” she said, looking up just in time to see the men with Ike try and hide their smiles. “Just embarrassed to be your friends’ entertainment. And glad I didn’t fall.”

  Ike took her hand, a move that surprised Quinn. Hadn’t he said the other night that he wasn’t into PDA?

  “Quinn, this is my cousin Jackson and my brother Atka. We’ve decided to drop the in-law part. With us either you’re family or you’re not. Right, guys?”

  Both responded affirmatively and exchanged greetings with Quinn.

  “It’s nice to meet both of you,” Quinn told them. “Now I know you have one sister, at least.”

  “I have two. Teresa is a twin and married to Atka, and London is the baby of our family.”

  “Her name is London? I know a model with that name.”

  Ike looked surprised. “You know my sister?”

  Quinn’s look mirrored Ike’s. “The supermodel who lives in Milan? Always works a bunch of shows for fashion week? That’s your sister?”

  “Unfortunately.”

  “Come on now, Ike,” Jackson said with a chuckle. “Don’t be so hard on her. She hasn’t made headlines for the last six months.”

  “Don’t count your chickens,” Ike responded.

  “I can’t believe she’s your sister.”

  “I can’t believe you know her. Although now that I think about it, I’m not surprised.”

  “Why do I get the feeling that that wasn’t quite a compliment?”

  “Smart woman you’ve got there, man.”

  “Absolutely. She graduated Columbia with a dual master’s degrees and has been, um, interning at the company.”

  “Is that how the two of you met?” Atka asked.