by J. G. Sumner
Tony reaches around and gives more attention to the already hypersensitive bundle of nerves fighting between the need to recover and the urge to find the Promised Land. What was only a moment ago overly receptive to the lightest touch, has now roared to life and is waiting to be fed. He plunges his cock into me without the slightest warning. My already dripping sex takes his manhood as though it was meant to hold him. He lets out a moan, settles in place, and wraps his arms around my body.
“God, baby, you feel so amazing.” Tony grabs onto my breasts and eagerly massages my hard nipples. He pinches them, sending sharp impulses to my sex, which clenches harder around his manhood.
“You like that, don’t you?” I don’t have to answer. Tony knows my body better than anyone ever has. He’s taken what is his and is now the sole proprietor of my body.
Tony moves his hand back to my bundle of nerves that are once again screaming for release. He continues to rub and massage them as he tugs at one of my nipples and thrusts in and out. I lean in, forcing him to go deeper. “Fuck!” Tony yells as he picks up the pace. He gives my nipple one last tug before I explode around his torpedo that is set to detonate at any second. He pulls me deeper and his body shudders against mine. Both of us reaching crescendo in unison. He lies with his front against my back, and his heart beats rapidly as his chest rises and falls at a steady rate as our symphony slowly reaches its conclusion. My world has been rocked, and it’s as though the stars have been aligned. This is perfect. This is ecstasy.
Tony pulls me onto my back and into his arms. He languishly kisses the top of my head. I let out a heavy sigh, as contentment and a calm settles over my body.
“You’re so beautiful,” he whispers in my ear.
Even though he tells me this all the time, I can still feel my cheeks warm as I know they’re becoming flushed. There’s just something about being told that when I’m naked. I instantly become a little self-conscious.
I rub a hand over his six-pack and trace along Tony’s happy trail. I love this little length of hair and find it incredibly sexy on a man—especially Tony. I lean in and plant kisses across his chest. His skin is warm. I close my eyes and inhale his manly scent—a combination of cologne and Tony. It’s a woodsy sort of earthy smell with a hint of sweetness; it’s the most wonderful thing I’ve ever smelled in my life, and incredibly intoxicating.
“I bought a present for you.” Tony’s sudden movement takes me from my happy place. He reaches over to the nightstand and grabs a tiny box with a red bow on it.
I’m giddy like a young girl on Christmas Day. Since I love surprises, I can’t wait to open this one. I sit up and lean against the headboard of the bed. Tony turns on his side to watch me. He has that smile that drives me wild. The corner of his mouth is curved up and his eyes are glittery and a bit mischievous.
“What?” I ask.
“I just love how excited you get when I give you things. Go ahead and open it.”
I pull the bow off the box and look inside. It’s a new iPhone. I look up at him puzzled. “A phone? I already have one that works fine.”
Tony takes it from my hand and turns it on. “This one’s different. It’s a prototype from Apple. There’s only a couple of them in the world right now. We happen to be the proud owners. Check this out.” He shows me different aspects that are not found on my current iPhone. “Remember how on the old Nextel they had the walkie talkie function? This has that, too. Now, if you need to get a hold of me, you don’t need to wait for it to ring and for me to answer. You can just press this button and start talking.” Tony pulls up the home screen. “Look here. There’s the panic button that’s activated by your fingerprint. It’s designed to provide an immediate transmission to the local authorities. The GPS is so accurate on the new phone, the police will find you within twenty-five feet of where you are.”
“How did you get this? I’m sure Apple doesn’t just give them out to anyone.”
Tony chuckles. “You’re right about that. Jasper has some connections. He’s trying to set up some Intel partnership and is designing new equipment. It’s another aspect of his security business. Since he works for very wealthy individuals, he has the capital and means to develop prototypes to keep his clients safe. Fortunately, we’re on the receiving end.”
Warning bells instantly scream inside my head. Why all this extra security? Is something going on? Tony still hasn’t told me what happened to him after he escaped his cousin’s house. In fact, I don’t even know if they ever captured Matteo. “Why do I need all this? Am I in some sort of danger?”
Tony pulls me into his arms. “I love it when you crinkle your forehead like that, but I don’t like it when you’re worried. You have panic attacks frequently when walking through large crowds. I want to make you feel more comfortable and secure. I promise to never let anything happen to you again. I’ll do everything in my power to keep you safe.”
I believe him. This man loves me like I’ve never been loved. He shows me every day how special I am. I snuggle in closer and kiss his forearm before I begin my next line of questioning. I don’t want him to have any chance of getting away from this conversation I need to have.
“What happened to Matteo? Where is he? I’ve talked to Agent Thompson, but he’s not able to provide me with any details. I need to know.”
Tony squeezes me tight. “There’s nothing to be afraid of. Everything has been taken care of.”
Part of me wants to probe further and get the details. The other part would rather live in the cocoon that Tony has wrapped me in, the one where I’m sheltered, protected, loved, and I never have to worry about anything because he’s always there for me. For now, I choose the latter and snuggle deeper into Tony’s arms. I close my eyes and fall asleep listening to the rhythm of his heartbeat.
Chapter Five
Kate
As promised, Tony and I are meeting Kendall for brunch. She’s agreed to meet us at Le Pescadeux on Thompson Street. It’s a cute little French bistro and it serves brunch until three in the afternoon. Tony suggested we bring Jasper to get him out of the apartment and away from surveillance for a bit. I agreed, thinking it might take some of Kendall’s attention off of me and Tony. I’m sure she’s going to make endless comments about us.
We arrive shortly before noon. Kendall is nowhere to be found. I can’t say I’m surprised. If that girl were on time anywhere, it would be amazing. I suggested we take a seat outside, but Jasper thought it better to be inside—something about the chance of showers.
The owner immediately greets and ushers us to a table in the middle of the room. Jasper declined and asked if we could sit in a corner against a wall. Honestly, I was getting a little annoyed. Tony shrugged it off as being Jasper. He looks for safe spots to sit everywhere he goes. Apparently, Jasper likes to have good sight lines of all the exits and windows. It’s part of his training.
The owner, Chuck, is in his early sixties, with gray, thinning hair. He’s tall; I’d guess about six-foot-four. Per Jasper’s request, he takes us to a table in the back corner and pulls my chair out for me.
“It’s so good to see you. How’s your father doing?”
My father and Chuck have been friends since I was a little girl. When he heard that I became a food critic, he asked me to do a piece on his restaurant. It’s the only restaurant he owns, and he wanted some publicity. Reluctantly, I agreed. I typically don’t like to mix family friends with business, but I ended up writing a piece in the New York Dining magazine. As a result of my exposure, his business picked up significantly, and he now has one of the most successful restaurants in SoHo.
“He’s well. I believe Daddy’s going to open a new restaurant at the end of the month.” I smile and give Chuck a kiss on the cheek. He grew up in France and is accustomed to the kiss on the cheek greeting.
“Where does your dad get all that time and energy? It seems like he just opened a new one.”
I nod. “He did about two months ago, upstate. My brother has take
n the reins and is now working side-by-side with Daddy. I think he’s priming David to take over the company.”
Chuck smiles as he hands us the menus. “Good for him. Maybe then Charles Anderson can take a much-needed vacation.”
“From your mouth to God’s ears. Although I can’t imagine Daddy ever slowing down.”
Chuck laughs. “I think you’re right, but perhaps your mom might have something to say about that. She can be very persistent when she wants something.” Chuck glances over at Tony, and I become aware that I haven’t introduced anyone.
“I’m so sorry. This is my boyfriend, Tony, and his friend, Jasper.” I point to each of them as I call their names. “Chuck owns this restaurant and has been a longtime family friend.” As everyone exchanges pleasantries, Kendall whisks through the door, attracting everyone’s attention. Her long red locks flow down her back with a large tendril strategically placed over her shoulder. I recognize this look. It’s her sexy I-want-all-eyes-on-me style. I gaze down to her outfit. She’s wearing a navy vertical striped spaghetti-strapped sundress with Jimmy Choo heels. She’s absolutely stunning. That’s my Kendall. She believes first impressions are everything, and she’s made sure to knock ’em dead today.
Chuck pulls a chair out for Kendall. He doesn’t need an introduction, as she’s come here with me many times, and I think he may fancy her just a bit.
“Right on time as usual.” I stand up and embrace Kendall in a hug.
“What? I’m only ten minutes late. By my accounts, that’s right on time.” Kendall smiles coyly and takes a look at the guys across the table. Her eyes widen, and I know she sees something she’d like to dig her fingernails into. For a second, a pang of jealousy forms in my stomach. I’m secure enough with myself to know I’m attractive in my own right. But there’s something about Kendall that exudes sex appeal, and I imagine she’s a fantasy for most guys.
I introduce her to Tony first. He stands up and politely shakes her hand and then returns his attention to me, winks, and provides me with that smile that makes me just want to rip his clothes off. My heart skips a beat as I swallow hard in an attempt to regain my composure.
“And, this is Jasper.” Jasper takes Kendall’s hand in his and kisses the top of it. Her cheeks instantly flush, and she giggles like a little school girl.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you…” She holds her attention on Jasper just a little bit longer than necessary before directing her gaze at Tony. “Both.” Kendall sits in the chair Chuck has pulled out and tucks her hands under her chin.
Oh my. She’s hot for Jasper. I should’ve known the tattooed bad boy would grab her attention. It drives her dad nuts when she brings home guys like Jasper. I think that’s why she does it.
“So, ladies, will you be having the usual mimosas?” I nod. The great thing about the brunch at this place is the all you can drink mimosas or Bloody Marys. Kendall and I have spent many weekends imbibing until late in the afternoon. Tony and Jasper look over the menu and decide on the Bloody Marys.
I glance over at Kendall. She has a quirky grin on her face. Something is going through that girl’s head, and I’m not sure I’m going to like what it is. She smiles at me and directs her attention to Jasper.
“Katherine didn’t mention that we’d have an additional guest here. Tell me a little about yourself. How do you and Tony know each other?”
Jasper pretty much went through the same spiel that Tony gave me when I was first introduced to Jasper in the bar.
“I see. So, you protect people. Can I hire you to be my bodyguard?”
Oh no she didn’t! Kendall literally just batted her eyelashes at Jasper. Tony is going to wonder what kind of people I hang out with. I glance at Tony, who rolls his eyes. He seems as irritated as I am, but Jasper is eating this up.
I clear my throat in an attempt to distract Kendall. “So what are your plans for the rest of the day?”
Kendall ignores me for what seems like forever before she finally responds. “I have none. I was just going to play it by ear and see how brunch went. I’d never pass up an opportunity to spend time with my bestie.”
I grit my teeth. Kendall’s behavior is nauseating. I hate this fake side of her. When it’s just the two of us, she’s fun to be around, but throw in a guy and she turns into someone unrecognizable.
“Tony and I have dinner plans. I’m going to take him to Champagne.” One look at Kendall and I know I’ve said something that’s going to trigger the more serious side.
Kendall gazes over at Tony and her look is shooting daggers. I’m surprised it has taken her this long to pay him any attention. I hold my breath, fearful of what’s about to come out of her mouth.
“So, Tony…what are your intentions with my friend? You caused her a tremendous amount of heartache while she waited a year for you to show yourself. Katherine wouldn’t talk to anyone for a while. She’s become an entirely different person because of you. She’s become Kate. I’m having to establish my friendship all over again and find out who this new woman is. She doesn’t even like to shop anymore!”
Jesus. She didn’t really just say all that. Couldn’t she have waited at least until their second encounter? I close my eyes and take a deep breath through my nose. I try some Zen breathing to calm the nerves that are beginning to roar to life.
I open my eyes. Tony has straightened his posture and is smiling at me. All at once, my worries melt away. Tony’s fine, and he’s going to handle this.
“You have every right to be concerned about Kate. I can assure you that I’d never do anything to harm her. I love her, and I’ll spend the rest of my days trying to ensure she’s safe, to make up for what’s happened to her including my long and unfortunate absence.”
Kendall doesn’t look convinced. “So how do you plan on providing for my friend? It’s come to my attention that you don’t work and yet you live with her. Were you hoping to get a free ride?”
Tony takes a hold of my hand and gently squeezes it. “I assure you I have more than adequate means to care for Kate in the fashion she’s become accustomed to.”
Tony is better than anything I could’ve imagined. A sense of relief washes over me.
Kendall looks down her nose at Tony. “I’ll have to take your word for it now, but if you do anything to upset her, I promise you’ll have me to deal with.”
Um, hello. I’m right here.
Tony leans down and kisses my hand. “I’m glad my beautiful Kate has a friend like you who is so protective of her. It appears as though we have something in common.”
Kendall’s squared shoulders relax, retreating from battle. Tony clearly said what she was hoping to hear. She smiles, and within seconds the charming Kendall is back. “Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, how about we enjoy the rest of this meal with one another? Shall we?” Kendall picks up her menu and begins to peruse it.
I glance at Tony, who winks and smiles at me. The way he stares at me is almost as if he’s looking right through me and deep into my soul. I love this man. He’d do anything for me and he’s all in. I never had that sort of reassurance or contentment when Mike was around. This feels good.
Tony continues to hold my hand as he looks over the menu. “What should I order?”
His accent still makes me giddy. There’s just something about an accent that drives me wild. I already want to take him back to the apartment and have him all to myself. “You can’t go wrong with the eggs benedict. The French toast is also very good.”
“How about the oysters?”
I look up at the sky and contemplate the menu. “You know, I’ve never had them. I typically just order the breakfast items.”
“Well, I think it’s high time you tried them. I’ll have those and the lumberjack deux.” Tony puts down his menu and picks up the Bloody Mary that has just been delivered to the table.
“Seriously? You’re going to have oysters and breakfast food?” I’m already kind of grossed out by this. I don’t like to mix up my
meals.
Tony looks at me with his brow crinkled. Damn, he’s so cute when he does that.
“Sure, why not? You have salmon on your bagel. What’s the difference?”
I ponder what he says. Tony is absolutely correct. Still, it just doesn’t seem appetizing to me.
“Come on, Kate. Live a little. Try something new. Isn’t that what a food critic is supposed to do?”
He has me there. Tony used the food critic card. How does this man know me so well?
The waiter comes to the table and takes our order. I don’t pay any attention to what anyone else gets. I can just hear Tony’s words in the back of my head. Live a little. That’s what I was starting to do in Italy. I was becoming the carefree Kate that was trapped inside my old woman’s body. That’s why I moved to SoHo. I wanted to become more relaxed. Lately, it seems I’ve resorted to my old ways. I’ve got to change that.
“I’ll take Betty’s burger with bacon, please.” I hand the menu to the waiter, and I look up at my friends. Kendall and Tony are staring at me wide-eyed.
“What? You said I needed to live a little.” I smile the shit-eating grin I save for special occasions.
Kendall is about to fall out of her seat. “You’ve only ever ordered breakfast here. It’s your routine. It’s what we do. You can’t go changing it up now.”
God, she can be so dramatic.
“It’s not that big of a deal. I feel like a hamburger.”
“Yeah, but you put bacon on it. You never add bacon to a burger. What have you done with my friend?”
I roll my eyes. She’s getting a little carried away. “Okay, relax. Can we just enjoy this and quit analyzing Kate? Poor Jasper must think we’re nuts.” I gesture toward Jasper and notice he’s already downed half of his Bloody.
“I take it you have the day off from security detail.” I motion toward the glass that he’s just put to his mouth, which is almost empty.
