by Celya Bowers
Brendan smiled down at her. He moved in for another kiss, each one more erotic than the last. Her entire body was awake and hungry for him. She moved her legs in invitation.
Brendan chuckled, but continued kissing her. Slowly his kisses eased down her body. He nibbled at her neck, suckled at her breasts, and nipped at her nearly flat stomach. Peri held on to the bed for dear life as kisses headed toward her apex. She should really stop him before he did the unthinkable, but she couldn’t. A part of her wanted him to go where no man had gone before.
He whispered against her lower abdomen, which caused a delicious sensation throughout her body. She moaned his name, giving her soul to the devil if she had to, to keep this feeling.
But Brendan had other plans for her. He was driving her completely out of her mind. He kissed her feminine curls and moved lower still, until Peri was sure that she was screaming in another language that she didn’t know as her body begged for release. He slid two fingers inside her, moving his hand back and forth slowly. Each surge forward took her to a new place. She thought she’d died and gone to heaven when he replaced his fingers with his mouth.
Brendan’s artful tongue was working magic on Peri. All she could think about were the intense sensations cascading her body. She didn’t want him to stop. He placed his hands on her waist and pulled her closer to him. Peri couldn’t object, heck after he was finished with her, she probably wouldn’t be able to move. The orgasm to end all orgasms was barreling through her body at an amazing speed. She didn’t have time to warn him. Not that it would have mattered. He continued loving her until her body finally calmed down.
“Wow, Brendan, that was amazing,” Peri whispered, still in awe of what just happened between them. Never in her sexual experience had she felt so many emotions at one time.
“You haven’t seen anything yet,” he promised. He slipped on a condom and entered her quickly. His sure strokes heated up her body like a hot Texas summer day with no chance of rain.
Peri wrapped her legs around him, not believing for one second how hungry her body was for him. She wrapped him in an embrace and kissed him to the rhythm of his lovemaking. Peri couldn’t last as long this time. She was the first to reach the moon. Brendan soon followed. He groaned as the climax tore through his body.
“Peri, that was amazing.” He slid out of her body and snuggled next to her.
After the workout he just gave her, Peri just wanted to sleep. She placed her head on his chest. Her fingers glided over his slick skin. She’d never been like this with a man. Robert always told her she was a horrible lover because she couldn’t orgasm. She couldn’t begin to count how many times she’d orgasmed during the night. “I’m sleepy. I’m going to take a nap.”
“Not yet. We need to talk.”
How could he end it now? Was she that bad a lover? Was Robert right? Was a nun more knowledgeable about pleasing a man than she was?
Brendan stomped out all of her fears with one kiss and a few words. “Last night and this morning were great, Peri,” he said. He looked directly into her eyes for so long that it made Peri a little nervous. “You’re beautiful and very sexy. Last night was indescribable.”
“For me, too,” Peri said, but the ringing phone interrupted the early morning pillow talk. She reached for the phone in all her naked splendor, not the least bit awkward or embarrassed about being nude in front of Brendan. She felt beautiful and he made her feel that way. “Hello,” she said with a giggle. Peri knew exactly who was calling at that ungodly hour.
“I was on my way to work and saw a black Range Rover parked in front of your condo,” Kyla cooed. “Can I assume that you and Brendan have consummated your friendship, finally?”
Peri gazed at Brendan, raising up for a gentle kiss. His hands glided over her body with ease. “Yes. I’m not going in today.”
Kyla gasped. “Oh, you never take the day off! Don’t think I didn’t hear that kiss, either. I’ll let you go back to what you were doing. Sounds like I caught you pre-orgasm. Call me later, if you have the strength,” said Kyla. “You can thank me then.”
Peri was laughing when she hung up the phone. Her attention turned toward Brendan. He leaned down and kissed her, igniting the same fire he had just put out earlier. “Brendan, what are you doing? Haven’t you ever heard of resting?”
* * *
Finally, Brendan did let Peri rest. Or at least long enough to take a shower and dress for the day. After they both called their appropriate offices, they headed to Brendan’s so he could get fresh clothes.
Peri sat downstairs while Brendan ran upstairs to take a shower. She looked around his very tidy living room. She noticed a few art magazines on the coffee table. It was thicker than the average magazine, but the photos in it were amazing. The colors were very vibrant and eye-catching. They were the most beautiful she’d ever seen.
“Hope I didn’t take too long,” Brendan said as he walked into the room. He had on a golf shirt, slacks, and leather shoes.
She shook her head, then looked at the large clock on the wall. Had she really been engrossed in the magazine and not realized an hour had passed? “No, I was just looking at your magazines.”
He smiled. “Yeah, that was one of our best issues. Took a lot of work.”
She dropped the magazine. “What? You did this?”
He held his hands up. “No, I didn’t take the shots, but I set everything else up and approved the photos.”
Peri slowly digested the information. “You’re the editor of Contropposto Magazine?” She quickly picked up the magazine and flipped to the masthead and scanned the list. Sure enough, there was his name as editor-in-chief.
“It’s mostly a supervisory position. Besides, it only comes out four times a year.”
“I think it’s great, Brendan. I’m very impressed.”
He shrugged. “Really, it’s not a big deal, Peri. I love art.”
“How did you become editor-in-chief?”
He sat beside her. “I’ve worked for Maza’s for about fifteen years. I’ve gotten a reputation over the years for picking out good pieces. Maza started the magazine about five years ago. It goes out to investors, the board of directors, and employees.”
“Do you enjoy it?”
“Of course. I love everything about art.”
She could tell. It was evident in his voice. He became excited when he talked about the magazine. “So when is the next issue?”
“Next month. I can get you a copy.”
“Great. I really love looking at art.”
He took the magazine out of her hand and pulled her closer. “I’m glad to hear it. I have a surprise for you…later.” He leaned down and kissed her.
The kisses were nothing like the ones they’d shared earlier that morning. This kiss was slow and easy. Peri wanted it to last forever. She wrapped her arms around him, drawing him closer to her.
He pulled her onto his lap. “Hey, you’re going to get me into trouble. The museum opens at eleven.”
“We’re going to a museum?”
“Not just any museum. We’re going to the Kimbell Museum in Fort Worth. They have an exhibit I think you will just love.”
* * *
Peri was in awe.
Brendan parked the Range Rover in front of The Kimbell Art Museum in the artsy section of Fort Worth. The three story building was elegant in an understated way. It couldn’t hold a candle to Maza’s, but it was still impressive.
Brendan ushered her inside the cool lobby. After he paid for their admission, Brendan began showing her around the first floor of the museum.
“The main exhibits are on the second and third floor,” he said, picking up her hand. “Would you like to get a bite to eat? We didn’t have breakfast this morning?”
Peri was about to refuse, but her stomach growled. “Sounds great, Brendan.”
They walked into the restaurant, ordered sandwiches and hot tea, then found a cozy table. A short balding man walked into the restaurant and
made a beeline for Peri and Brendan. He extended his chubby hand to Brendan.
“Hello, Brendan. Nice to see you again. The showing was amazing.”
Brendan shook the man’s hand. “Yes, I brought my friend, Peri, to see your Egyptian exhibit. Peri, this is Antonio, the curator of this museum. I’ve known Tony about ten years.”
“Nice to meet you, Tony.”
“Likewise.” He extended a hand to Peri, but his attention was on Brendan. “I’m told that Maza’s is supposed to get it after we are done with it. Will it be the Dallas branch? I know the Dallas Museum of Fine Arts will be pissed about you all beating them in getting it.”
“No, I passed on the exhibit since you had it here. I believe the New York branch will have it on display for four months.”
Peri never would have dreamed that Brendan had that kind of clout in the art world. Apparently he did. He simply shrugged his broad shoulders and nodded his head at the curator.
“Good. We won’t have competition from your gallery. It is an impressive exhibit, almost on par with Lord Carnarvon’s at the British Museum.”
Brendan grinned. “Yes, I’m sure it is. Peri loves Egyptian art.” He winked at her. “So we’ll take a look after we finish our lunch.”
Tony laughed. “Sure, no problem. If you need anything, let me know.” Tony left them to their food.
When they finished the meal, Brendan led her upstairs to the exhibit. To say that it was beautiful was an understatement. Each of the items displayed held a story, and Peri was dying to connect with it. Brendan grabbed her hand.
“I know how much you want to touch the exhibits, but don’t. Tony will kill me.”
She laughed. “I know that’s a cardinal sin.”
He leaned down and kissed her right in the middle of King Tut’s treasures. “And you know that’s a high price to pay.” He kissed her again. “And you know how much I charge for that.”
Peri felt a shiver run down her spine. How could he elicit such emotions in her body in such a public place? “I’m sure you’re willing to show me, right?”
He smiled down at her. “Many, many times. How about tonight?”
“I have some homework in my online course that I have to complete tonight.” She also needed some time to collect her thoughts.
“I guess we’ll have to table that discussion for now.” He continued showing her around the exhibit.
* * *
After Brendan dropped her off at her condo, Peri had time for a brief nap before completing her homework. Somehow sleep eluded her and only one thing would help her. She needed a sounding board. She called Kyla for some girl talk.
“Five times,” was all Kyla said. She repeated the number several times, making Peri laugh.
“Yes, five times. Actually six, if you count this morning.” Peri still didn’t believing the events of the last twenty-four hours. “He wants me to call him when I finish my homework. I’m just wondering if I did the right thing.”
“How do you feel?”
“Exhausted and sore,” said Peri. The women laughed. “But otherwise good. I don’t regret making love to him. I just wonder if I should have waited. What if we did too much too soon?” Peri knew she did what was right. She just needed someone else to validate it for her. It was her first intimate encounter since Robert.
“Peri, if you feel good about it, then it was right. Personally, I don’t think I could have waited that long…” Kyla let the sentence hang in the air as she laughed at Peri.
“When you pushed me toward him, did you envision any of this?” Peri asked, not knowing if she would like her friend’s answer.
“No, I thought y’all would have a chat or two,” Kyla answered honestly. “I’m glad he brought you out of your shell. I am happy it is going well.”
“I just wonder for how long?” Peri asked, already dreading the end. When it was over, she was going to miss him terribly.
“Just close your eyes and hope for the best.”
“Yes, mother,” Peri said sarcastically and the women rang off.
* * *
Brendan breathed a little easier when he left Peri’s condo. He didn’t believe the events of the previous night. Not that he regretted making love to Peri for one second, he just wished he knew what she was thinking.
He couldn’t dwell on that now. He had to get ready for this blasted trip. He wished he could send Dante, but knew that would be passing the buck, and he would never do that. His flight was due to leave Monday morning. He had six days to dash away any insecurities Peri had. Seemed doable, he hoped.
He loved her enthusiasm about art. Not many women would have found going to a museum a good date. Peri was like a kid in a candy store and she soaked up every word he said. Although it was a great feeling that they had so much in common, he wanted her to treat him like a man, not an art directory.
* * *
By Friday, Peri knew Brendan was going to be in a mood. Each night they talked, he sounded more distracted about the upcoming trip. As she drove home from work, she decided to take the bull by the horns. She called him to see how he was feeling.
“Hi Brendan, it’s Peri,” she said softly. She hoped she hadn’t overstepped her bounds as whatever she was.
“Hey, babe.”
Her heart swelled at those two words. “I-I wanted to know if you were up to company this evening.”
“If the company is you, then yes.”
“Great. I’ll bring some food.”
“Sounds brilliant. You are the best.”
Peri laughed. “I’ll see you about seven.” She ended the call before she said something she’d regret.
She went home and changed, called in a take-out order and left her house. She checked in with Kyla as she drove to Brendan’s. Kyla was not surprised at the change of events.
“Look who’s getting a social life,” she teased. “See Peri, a few months ago you would never have initiated spending time with Brendan.”
Peri giggled. Sometimes she didn’t recognize the woman she’d become since Brendan barged into her life, but she liked the changes. “I know I still can’t believe I asked him if I could come over.”
“That’s what you’re supposed to do. You’re dating the man. When does he leave for Europe?”
“Monday morning. He has to stop in New York for a few days, then he’s in Brussels until Saturday, then he flies to Paris.”
“Well look who knows all the important travel info. I’m guessing you have flight information and hotel numbers.”
“No,” Peri said quietly. “That hasn’t come up in the conversation.” Why hadn’t it come up in the conversation?
“Stop over thinking this, Peri. This is new for you, so just enjoy it for what it is.”
She wished she could, but past mistakes with Robert were fresh in her mind. “I wish I could.”
“Promise me that you will not let your past cloud your judgment,” Kyla pleaded. “Promise me, okay?”
“Okay, Kyla,” Peri said. “You always know what to say, don’t you?”
“I try. Go and have fun. I guess you won’t be at the gym tomorrow,” Kyla teased.
Peri didn’t think she was going to make it to the gym either, but didn’t want to admit it to Kyla. “I’m going home tonight. I just want to make sure that he’s not depressed about the trip.” Okay, it was a small lie.
“Do you kiss your mother with those liar’s lips?”
* * *
That night Peri and Brendan snuggled together on the floor of the family room. She felt safe nestled in the strength of his arms, but his mind was somewhere else. He half-answered her questions, if he answered her at all.
Peri turned to face him. “Brendan, you can talk to me. Maybe it would help you to at least talk about what you are feeling.” She forced herself not to run her fingers through his hair. She didn’t want to feel that close to him so soon, but it was hopeless; she already did.
“I doubt it.” He turned over on his back and close
d his eyes. A loud sigh escaped his lips. Peri watched his chest as he inhaled and exhaled, as if contemplating the plight of the free world. “I’m glad you’re here.” He opened his eyes and looked at Peri. His mood became brighter. “Will you stay tonight?”
Peri thought she might, so she had packed a bag earlier. “If you really want me to.” She snuggled closer to him. Why did she feel this way so fast?
“I’d like you to,” he said quietly. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her. “I just want to hold you in my arms.”
Peri nodded and snuggled against him. She did stay the night. To her surprise, they didn’t make love. He embraced her in his strong arms as he slept. And Peri knew she was hopelessly in love.
CHAPTER 9
Saturday morning the aroma of food cooking awakened Peri. She opened her eyes and looked towards Brendan’s side of the bed and found it empty. She looked around his spacious bedroom with envy. It was very neat. Obviously, he did not believe in clutter.
On his solid oak dresser was a picture of Chelsey. The armoire stood open and held a thirty-two-inch plasma TV. His king-size bed was very comfortable. She wished she could lie there all day, with him, of course. She heard the bedroom door open as Brendan, dressed in shorts and a T-shirt, walked in with a loaded breakfast tray. The large wooden tray had a little of everything on it: bacon, eggs, pancakes, juice, coffee, and toast. Peri felt as if she had gained five pounds just by inhaling the breathtaking fumes.
He sat the tray on the bed directly in front of her. Peri had no choice but to take in the intoxicating aroma. “Thank you, Brendan, this looks amazing.” She wondered how he felt today.
“Thanks, Peri. I know this isn’t diet food. I’ll get some healthy food next time.”
As she mulled over his remark, she continued questioning him. “How did you get from Ireland to Arlington?” Peri ate her eggs and started on those sinful pancakes.
Brendan looked at her while he ate. “My first job was as the cleaning boy. I was about eighteen. I also got to hang the pictures. It was at a museum in Dublin called Gallery National. Little by little I got more duties, and soon they became more art duties. A few years later, the owner asked me to accompany him to Austria for an auction. I figured, why not? The trip was free and at that time I had never been out of Ireland. I picked out a few good pieces. He said I had a good eye. He made me an apprentice art buyer. A few years later those same paintings turned a huge profit, and he helped me get my next job. The next gallery was twice the size of the one in Dublin, but it was in London. I really didn’t want to leave Mum and Dad, but this was a great opportunity and I would only be four hours away by train. From there I got transferred to New York, and Maza’s bought our galleries. A few years later I met Claire, we got married, and Chelsey was on the way. Right after that I got transferred to the Dallas gallery and promoted to corporate art director. We got divorced and I stayed here to be close to Chelsey. That is the whole boring story.”
