The One Awakened: Book 1 in The One Trilogy

by Alexandra North

  “Ya know, time of the month - your assistant and Seb said you were off with tummy ache.”

  Bless Jackie meant well but maybe Chris wasn’t the best guy to offload my health issues onto. As for Seb what had he told him?

  “No no, I’m fine thanks Chris. All good now; that was a few days ago. There’s these amazing products now called Tampax and Codeine, so we can still get the job done and not reply so heavily on you macho men,” my voice drips with sarcasm.

  I don’t wait around for another crude retaliation and instead head over to Nathan, who is looking perplexed. “You OK Lu?”

  I shrug off the comment, probably with too much gusto. “What me? Tough old thing - you know that,” I laugh his concern away.

  “Seriously though, does Seb know you’ve been ill?”

  “I’ve not been ill - just a bit of tummy ache and yes, your punctilious and totally over-the-top protective brother knows all about it.” I add pointedly.

  His nod of approval both annoys and warms me. “Right lets’s see what you’ve been up to.”

  Back to business Na proceeds to show me his work on the window seats; the beautiful rococo style woodwork is exactly what I’d envisaged, in my original designs and I pat his shoulder in thanks. For the next few minutes we buzz of each-others creativity, sketching concepts for the bed, panelling and ornate frame that will house the 50inch LED TV.

  “Looks like you’ve got an admirer there!” he thrusts his head in the direction of Chris, who is chatting to the plumber.

  I screw my face up in disagreement. “Nah, he’s harmless really – I hope. Just a bit of a cheese ball.”

  “Better not let Sebastian see him pawing you like that. I’ve a feeling that wouldn’t go down so well,” Nathan smiles.

  I assess Nathan’s face and let the words sink in, pleased with the knowledge that Seb’s own brother can see that he would possibly be jealous – but conscious that Seb and Chris are friends and I don’t want to come between that – it was a recipe for disaster, in any relationship.

  Changing the subject we return to peruse his highly skilled joinery.

  “Good eh? If I say so myself,” he adds modestly.

  “Not just good – bloody gorgeous. I’m so pleased Nath.”

  We spend a minute or two going over the plans for the huge queen size bed and somehow the topic leads to Abby and Seb.

  “Seen much of Abs lately?”

  “I saw her at the weekend with you but not since. We’ve been in touch though.”

  He nods, pondering something, which is obviously bothering him, and I remain quiet, aware that he might clam up and I’d not get the knowledge I know I need to obtain for Abby.

  “I think I like her Lu.” His face is pained and I can tell it’s not something he really wants to admit to anyone, let alone himself.

  I empathise. Hell I’m in exactly the same predicament.

  “I think the feeling is mutual Nathan. Just take it easy and let it happen. You two are perfect for one another.”

  He smiles, white teeth flashing at me brightly, amongst the dust. “Yeah - she’s a keeper. I knew it that Saturday night when I saw her dancing in the Champ bar.” He shakes his head to remove some of the remnants of wood in his hair. “What about you and my bro?”

  I sigh and roll my eyes to the ceiling. “It’s always a game with Seb - you know how he is – the chase - going in for the kill. Once he has it and it’s maimed for life, there’s nothing left to pursue.” We both laugh in unison at my dramatic analogy.

  “Woah, heavy stuff – just wondered if you two were seriously hooking up?” We continue to giggle like kids.

  “Bit much?”

  “Just a bit,” he agrees. “He’s a goner Lu. I’ve not seen him like this before but to be honest he’s always adored you. What changed?”

  My lips curl in a cheeky grin. “I propositioned him.”

  Nathan practically chokes in response. “You what?”

  “I asked him to take me to bed. Get me back into things, you know sex-wise.” My casualness does not go unnoticed by Nathan but I smile at his shocked frown.

  “Niall treated me badly Na and I’m good now but Abs was right…she said to me a few months back I’d lost my zest and I needed to start dating again. Sex was an issue. So in Seb I saw a solution. He’s my best friend, a major player and apparently fabulous in the sack and I trust him.”

  Bloody amazing - I can attest to that now)

  “Jeez. No wonder he looks like the cat that’s got the cream but like it went sour too! I haven’t been able to figure him out. Talk about happy one minute and crazy the next. Are you sure you two aren’t making a mistake here - I mean fucking up your friendship?”

  I assess his expression and worried eyes and if it weren’t for the work clothes I’d have grabbed him in a hug then and there.

  “I’m fine. Honestly. Seb isn’t a commitment kind of guy, so it’s a win,win.”

  I can tell from Nathan’s face he’s not convinced. “Really?” Maybe Seb is ready to try something real?”

  I wrinkle my nose. “I don’t think so but we’re having fun. Plenty of fun. Just keep it shtum - I don’t think he want everyone knowing.”

  “Good luck with that - we’re all aware that something is going on!”

  I’m about to answer, when The Crab interrupts, slinging a loose arm around my shoulders. I instantly tense.

  “Right, better get back to it Boss!” Nathan raises his eyebrows at me and winks.

  I grin affectionately at our shared in-house joke. “See you soon. If not this week, Saturday at Sebastian’s house party.”

  Already in full work-mode again, sandpaper going ten to the dozen, he nods and mumbles through the protective mask, “See you there.”

  Chris still hovers around me like a bad smell. “I’ll most definitely see you there Honey, after all, I live there now.”

  Lucky me! I placate him with a wave over my shoulder as I make a hasty exit. I’ve too much to do to put up with Creepy Chris another second.

  Like dress for a sexy illicit tete a tete.

  I fidget nervously with the pearls at my wrist, as my eyes scan the impressive interior of the Limousine that has collected me for the evening - its leather seats filling my nostrils. The knock at the door had been a shocking but welcome surprise; I’d been about to call a cab but upon seeing the sleek glossy black vehicle parked outside, just sitting there at my beck and call, courtesy of Mr. Silver, I’d happily informed the fair-haired, thick set driver I’d be out promptly.

  Let’s hope Meg hadn’t seen the flashy arrival - she’d be itching to check it out.

  Now happily ensconced within, I’m wondering whether it had been such a good idea. The smart young driver, with a Polish accent had presented me with a glass of chilled bubbling champagne, before setting off in the direction of Scarlet House and with a quick buzz through the intercom, he had now informed me we were only two minutes from my destination.

  My heart is beating ridiculously fast and mouth so dry I’m glad of the champagne and guzzle it down greedily. I’d spent two hours preparing for tonight and changed my mind a zillion times in that 120minutes. The one thing that had spurred me on, was the thought of his mouth on mine, his fingers splayed across my body, parting me, delving inside me, opening me and taking me over the edge. I’d had a taste of him; and now I craved so much more.

  I certainly looked the part; Sophie, my amazing hairdresser had worked wonders with my hair, curling and pinning it loosely high up on my crown, the odd tendril escaping. The result elongated my neck and showed off my smokey eyes and full red mouth. I knew he liked me in bold mat red lipstick.

  I’d bathed in oils, buffed, trimmed, shaved and moisturised. My skin felt delicious and the whole process of getting ready for him had me turned on, before I’d even slipped the lingerie in place. My skin felt alive and expectant.

  The bra fit me perfectly, perhaps a little snug but
only assisted in pushing my breasts up and in - allowing them to be shown to their best advantage; my areolas, rosy and flushed from my bath, balanced perkily upon the cups, winking delicately behind the carefully placed lace. My nipples however were entirely free and erect. The panties came next and I slid them over my hips, adjusting the pearl stringed thong to rest neatly between my cheeks - the little balls running from the top of my bottom, underneath my perineum and stopping at the tip of my opening. I’d squirmed initially at the odd cool sensation they created before sliding each lace topped stocking up one leg, then the other, careful not to ladder them. A hook and eye fastened the suspender belt in place and a quick snap shut on the sexy bondage straps connected everything together safely, finished with a pearl adorned black satin bow. The entire outfit was pure sex - designed by a man for a man’s pleasure. Old style Dita Von Teese with that erotic edge. Adding the to-die-for Louboutins, I’d stood for an age, assessing my body in the full-length rococo mirror.

  Holy Shit! My laugh had been immediate, holding a hand up to my mouth to touch my lips in awe. I was amazed how sexy I looked. Could I dare to part my thighs - see how open I looked?

  The sexy lace and satin glittered in the light temptingly, giving the look a magical aura but the bondage strapping, around my breasts, waist, and thighs kept things dirty. 10 denier stockings, showed my shapely legs off nicely and the shoes were pure genius, elongating and curving my legs in all the right places. Holding the mask up to my amethyst smoked eyes, I’d appraised myself from every angle; the lace panel, lying across my eyes, creating a veil; not completely blind but cloaking me in mystique.

  I hadn’t wanted to ruin the beautiful outfit Sebastian had selected for me, besides, what clothing would work over it? So I chose to be bold, my motto for the night and wear a black high collared satin coat, nipped in at the waist, which span out into a full skirt, ending at the knee; tied with a black Swarovski studded satin sash. At the last second I grabbed a long rope of creamy white pearls and wound them around my wrist. Perfect.

  I now played with the end of that sash, panicked at my decision. There were no buttons to fasten my coat; just this makeshift belt and we were going to a hotel. I’m practically naked under here - what had I been thinking?

  You’d been imagining him taking it off you and revealing yourself to his beautiful black eyes.

  “We’re here Ms. Myers.”

  I jump at the interruption to my lascivious thoughts and hear gravel crunching under the car tyres and the handbrake activated. I’m here.

  Polish-guy assists me out of the car and I at the last second, I remember my bag, and reach back for the large red clutch. It houses the mask, the card key, my phone, my purse, make-up essentials and that’s it - I’d not come with an overnight bag. The door opens and I swing both feet neatly together and place them on the ground, and smile coyly as I follow the driver’s focus, transfixed on my lace stocking topped thigh. Rather than feel embarrassed I feel empowered as I elegantly pull the coat to cover my modesty, but not all the way, leaving the slightest hint of lace peeking through. I take his outstretched hand and stand.

  “Thank you for driving me?” I assess his pale grey eyes, and realise I don’t know his name.

  “Ralph.”

  I nod. “Ralph. Well good night then.”

  It is time to go inside Scarlet House and be one hell of a Scarlet Lady.

  Looking up at the impressive townhouse, I make for the entrance, situated between two large bay trees, covered in white fairy lights. I throw one last look over my shoulder at the limousine waiting behind me, that feeling of being watched is compelling - now or never - then turn and twist the door knob.

  The moment I enter Scarlet House I know I’m about to experience a night like no other - the interior is dark, gothic almost in its design; like a luxurious gentleman’s club, with dimmed wall lights and the intoxicating scent of the large display of black orchids on the main desk. Black velvet damask wallpaper drapes the walls, with glossy black and gold Louis XI replica chairs and a thick black carpet that my Louboutin’s sink into. Deep blues and gold’s, add warmth to the predominantly noir facade but the ultimate vibe is sensuality, opulence and sex - not unlike what I am trying to create at The Ashton.

  An older, smartly attired grey haired gentleman takes my name at reception before escorting me through large indigo velvet upholstered double doors, into the drawing room and subsequent guest bar. Music fills this space - seductive and intoxicating.

  “Table or the Bar Ms. Myers?” His expression is friendly but I’m too on edge to engage.

  I choose the bar, easing myself onto a high stool and placing my clutch in front of me. I take a moment to check for Sebastian. He isn’t here…yet.

  Surveying my surroundings, the boudoir decor continues, with the general ambience, rich and glamorous. The watered silk wallpaper to my right subtly depicts erotic illustrations of Marie Antoinette’s era, in Karma Sutra positions, some of which I have to crook my head to fathom. The exotic music fills my ears, intense and throbbing and sensual. Behind me, there are several couples at tables, transfixed with each other - tactile is the name of the game here.

  The whole place was decadent and purely indulgent, with just enough rakishness to be a fabulously louche atmosphere. I absolutely loved it!

  How had I never heard of it before? Because Mrs. you’ve never had a sexy man send you a saucy invitation to meet him here - you’ve never been with a man who’d asked you to be bold!

  Fiddling with the pearl drop at my lobe, I moisten my lips and cross my leg over the other, feeling the satin fabric of my coat slide open - I choose to leave it and watch as a young, immaculately dressed barman, heads my way with a tumbler, its rim encrusted with sugar. He places it front of me before smiling appreciatively, “From the gentleman in Room 22.”

  My heart begins to pounds again. He was here already - upstairs perhaps?

  “What is it?”

  “Dark and Stormy.”

  How appropriate. I take a tentative sip, my mouth immediately filled with flavours of warm rum, ginger and zesty lime - the sugar on the edge a welcome sweetener and chunks of ice, soothing the burn of the alcohol.

  I look up into expectant eyes, “It’s good - really good.”

  His nod of approval is quick before I’m left to my thoughts. A quick look at my watch tells me I have ten minutes before I need to be in the bedroom - as per his bloody instructions. I have to admit though, I’m enjoying being told what to do for once. Abs was right, there were some parts to submission, which I think I’d be open to.

  I wiggle on the seat, the pearl thong was playing havoc in my nether regions - not because it was uncomfortable, entirely the opposite, it was creating delicious pressure around my bottom and vulva and made me want to grind down on that stool to get myself off.

  The drink goes down smoothly, in large, quickening gulps, the burn travelling down my throat and warming my chest, where just under my coat, my nipples beg to be touched. It relaxes me, numbing my mind and setting my skin on fire - I’m sure that had been Sebastian’s goal. The 15minutes gives me time to think about what is waiting for me upstairs and makes me wet in anticipation, every minute passing by empowers and steadies me.

  Time to nip to the ladies, before making to him at last. Slipping off my perch, I notice the couple behind me. The man’s hand rests high on her thigh; her hand openly caresses his face. They look enraptured with one another, teasing and kissing audaciously. My core clenches just thinking of Sebastian upstairs, waiting at my disposal.

  What was this place?

  Sex was the main thing on everyone’s mind here- sex and sensuality - mine included.

  The door to Room 22 is an imposing glossy black panelled creation, with huge crystal handle. It looks like all the others on the corridor but it was unique in that it housed Sebastian, on the other side. Card key in hand, trembling visibly, my stomach in knots I pause - could I really do this? Be this b
old?

  My eyes drop to my hand before scrunching it tightly around the card, flexing and tightening once again. I take a deep calming breath and sliding that key in and out, sharply - no going back now, I think for the fiftieth time since I’d arrived. The light flashes green on the lock and composing myself, I enter.

  Inside the room is dimly lit, candles flaring sporadically scattered at corners, casting an alluring glow amongst the shadows and my eyes take a second to adjust to the light. The room is huge and as opulent as the rest of the town house and at its centre, an ornate four-poster bed takes pride of place.

  “Sebastian?”

  Was that my voice, all sultry? God I’m shaking - where is he?

  “Put your mask on.”

  His voice reverberates right through me, hitting every nerve ending. I shudder, before retracting the satin and lace accessory and tying it behind my up-do, obediently.

  His distinctive scent engulfs me - musk and caramel and masculine, before strong arms fasten loosely at my waist and I lean back into him, letting him take my weight. I feel his hands working the knot free and the sash as it falls to the ground, air hitting my chest and stomach, as the coat gapes. I hear his breath hitch and he lets out a low groan at the revelation of my lack of clothing and smiling, pleased at the reaction, I arch and assist him, shrugging out of my coat, desperate to feel his sexy hands on my body.

  “Let me awaken you.”

  My chest expands, nipples ruching in the cold, my whole body screaming out in answer to his words - yes please! Then I feel the wet of his lips on my neck, tickling the soft tendrils there, the swirls of his tongue delicately laving my shoulder and it’s my undoing.

  I spin and force myself into his solid male frame, cocooned in the heat emanating from his rock-solid, muscled body. He is dressed in a black shirt; sleeves rolled back and suit pants and looks mouth-wateringly sexy.