by Sky Corgan
When I finally pulled away, Gabriel had a satisfied grin on his face. “Yes, I do believe I like you much better like this.”
He grabbed my hand and dragged me through the crowd before I could so much as respond. I was jogging to keep up, cursing his long strides by the time we arrived back at the hotel. I was still catching my breath walking into the elevator.
“I’m on the sixth floor. The girls are on the fourth. Which floor do you want to go to?” he asked, and I could see the expectation flashing in his eyes.
I paused. This was a bad idea. Never mix business and pleasure… But it had been a long time since I had slept with someone, and he was hot. Just his kisses had set me on fire.
“This won’t negatively impact our business relationship?” I asked hesitantly, realizing how stupid it sounded. Of course, he was going to say no.
He shook his head, pushing the button for the fourth and sixth floor.
I thought it over on the way up. As the door opened on the fourth floor, I made my decision, tapping the close elevator button and tugging him into a kiss. He gasped in surprise, his arms wrapping around me pulling me close, his hands weaving into my hair. I moaned at the feel of his body against mine.
Gabriel broke free from the kiss, looking flushed. “Well, you are full of surprises.” He chuckled, scooping me up and tossing me over his shoulder like a caveman.
“What…”
“Your feet were hurting, and I wanted to see how much you weigh, tiny little thing.” Gabriel smacked my ass, easily holding me and opening his hotel room door.
“Put me down!” I gasped, torn between laughing at how ridiculous we looked and offended at being carried.
Once the door was closed behind us, he set me down. I turned to tell him just how I felt about being picked up, but all protest died from the look in his eyes. He leaned forward and captured my lips again. Damn, he was a good kisser. He knew right where to touch to send electricity flowing through me. I couldn’t help but curve towards him. Just the stroke of his tongue against mine had my body pulsing. As his hands explored, I shivered.
Slowly, he maneuvered me backward. I stumbled, breaking the kiss and looking around in confusion. The bathroom?
“Do you want to smell like funnel cake? Not that it isn’t a sexy smell…” he purred, tilting his head. His eyes held just the hint of a challenge.
Accepting that this was going to go down, I tugged my shirt over my head. Folding it first, I set it on the counter, followed by my jeans. Gabriel's gaze locked on me as I flicked the clasp of my bra, letting it tumble off into my hand. He groaned as I shimmied out of my underwear.
Ignoring his whistle, I twirled around him, turning on the shower.
“Well aren’t you a tease.” He laughed.
“You can’t take a shower with clothes on, last I checked.” I snorted, stepping in and letting the water cascade over me.
“Where was this Abby hiding?” he asked, sliding in beside me stark naked.
I gulped. I knew he had a nice body under those clothes, but it was far better than I could have imagined. It was hard not to run my hands down those beautiful abs. Gabriel had it all, a handsome face, a tight ass, and a large package. I couldn’t help but lick my lips, thinking about how it would feel to have him inside of me.
He groaned. “You are going to be too sexy.” Gabriel stepped under the water while I grabbed the soap and a washcloth. “Oh no, let me.” He grinned, taking the cloth from my hands. “I would just love the opportunity to touch your body.” The heat in his voice shot right through me.
He lathered up the washcloth. Ignoring the makeup and gel streaming down his face, he sensually began running the cloth over my arm, his other hand following and lingering with every touch.
“You have beautiful skin,” he murmured, trailing his touch with light kisses.
Goosebumps rose on my skin. He was incredibly meticulous, bathing each body part with the utmost care. The pressure he used ranged from rough to featherlight, but everything he did sent fire straight to my loins.
I whimpered when he touched my stomach, gently rubbing it. He moved his way up, brushing over my breasts. I bit back a moan at the jolt. I wanted his hands all over me.
Finally, he scrubbed my back before turning me around and sliding the washcloth behind me to stroke my ass. I gasped as he used his grip to pull me to him for a kiss. His cock strained hard against me, and anticipation had my core throbbing.
It took everything in me to break free from his kiss. “Not yet. You're not clean,” I teased, taking the washcloth from him.
“Oh, really?”
“Would you deny me a reason to touch your body?”
His eyes widened, and he laughed. “Well, far be it for me to deny you.” He held his arms out and let me see him in all his naked glory.
The first thing I did was lather my hands with some shampoo. That gel had to go. His hair looked too soft not to touch, but not with gel in it. He leaned down, and I massaged the shampoo into his hair, feeling it soften as I cleaned it. I ran my fingers through as I massaged. He rinsed it out while I lathered up the washcloth, slowly bathing his arms and legs, much like he had done with me. After that, I went to his chest and moved down slowly. My free hand gently brushed against his sex, and it twitched. I did it several times as I rubbed his chest. He moaned in response.
“God, I want to be buried in you right now,” Gabriel growled.
Ignoring him, I circled, scrubbing his back. “Done,” I said confidently.
He turned towards me. God, he was so big. It was hard not to run my hand down and wrap around him.
“Are you on the pill?” he asked.
“Of course, I’m on the pill. I'm still going to make you wear a condom, though.”
Groaning, he stepped out of the shower, returning minutes later with his member wrapped.
Who knew shower sex could be this hot? Gabriel hoisted me up against the wall, and I moaned from the closeness, my legs wrapping around him. He nuzzled my neck, and I shivered.
“Sensitive spot?” he chuckled, breathing on it. “Oh, this will be fun.”
“Just fucking get inside me.” I demanded.
“As you wish.” With one smooth thrust, he penetrated me. I gasped at the sensation of it. Gabriel nibbled on my throat, hands supporting me. He pulled out and dove back in.
“Faster,” I breathed, and he complied, his hard body pinning me against the wall. I dug my nails into his arms, urging him on.
He grunted, lifting me higher and hitting deeper. Tightening my legs around him, I moaned as pleasure rocked through me
He stroked his tongue in time with his thrusts, dominating me. I could do nothing but writhe beneath him, pleading. “Faster! Harder!” I could feel myself getting close. “Please!” I panted, and with one more powerful buck of his hips, I came, squeezing around him as I screamed into his mouth.
He grunted, and I knew he was done in too.
I trembled as the last tremors of my climax settled in my core.
Slowly, he pulled out and helped me to my feet. That was…beyond worth it. I caught my breath, finally looking up at him, a flush taking over my cheeks.
“That was fun.” He stepped out of the shower and handed me a towel.
“How do you have your own hotel room? I thought the men were staying in a room together.”
“Women are less likely to bring back fans to sleep with. All of the guys have their own room. I’m sure Kia just let you assume we shared a room.”
“So I'm another fan?” I rolled my eyes, drying off. When hot and ready, I had a lot more confidence. Now, not so much.
“You have a lot of passion inside that little body. It's good to see it.” He ignored the question.
I stepped out of the shower and began putting on my clothes.
“Hold up. What about round two?” He had a cheeky grin.
“One round was exhausting enough with you.”
His grin grew with masculine pride.
“How very professional of you,” he said sarcastically. “Are you sure it isn’t because you're turning bright red at what we just did?” Gabriel laughed.
“Nope. Not that at all.” I grabbed my purse and moved towards the exit.
He wrapped his towel around his waist and followed, pushing the door shut and leaning down to kiss me. “Trust me, one or two rounds, there is no way you don’t look like I just fucked you.”
“Regardless, I’m not staying,” I said stubbornly, and he smiled.
“Perhaps next time then.”
Cocky man. I opened the door and slipped out, running my hand through my hair and trying to make it look presentable. How was I going to explain why I was wet?
I groaned. What had gotten into me? I shouldn’t have just had sex with Gabriel.
Slinking back to my room, I sighed in relief when neither of the other women were there. Sending up a quick prayer of thanks, I jumped into the shower, pulling out my own shower stuff and cleaning up once more, washing away all evidence of our encounter. Except for the mark he left on my throat. I caught sight of it in the mirror when drying off.
“Dick,” I muttered, shaking my head.
Since I was the interloper, I chose the chair to sleep in. After all, I was here to get a job, not a good night's sleep.
CHAPTER FIVE
The rest of the weekend flew by with Kia keeping me busy as her errand girl. It was fun to be out and about around people with so much enthusiasm. Quite a change from my normal environment, but I was exhausted every night.
I think Kia figured out that something happened between Gabriel and I because she kept me far from him and the rest of the band for the remainder of the weekend. I didn’t mind because it gave me time to focus and on my new design for their website.
When we landed, I waved goodbye and took off, intent on getting the revision to Gabriel by midnight.
Once I got home, I played with a variety of colors, creating a unique and artistic site that introduced the band. Instead of the typical “about me” page, I started with videos and music samples. I left open files for introductions to each of the band members. It would show their flare, with a blurb about their dedication to indie, and challenging the established music industry.
Their merchandise page was simpler than the rest, exemplifying the unique designs decorating each item for sale.
By midnight, I was very proud of my work. It was probably the most creative website I’d ever designed. Smiling, I emailed Gabriel, letting him know that the new version of the website was complete. Yawning, I put away my laptop and curled up on my couch, thankful to finally get a good night’s sleep.
***
I was relieved to get the thumbs up from Gabriel, finally nabbing the job. He raved about how much more passion and understanding I put into the project. Kia sent me an acceptance email and a contract two days after.
Once the site went live, the popularity of the band rose. Visits began at a few dozen a day, but it wasn't long before the website started receiving over 10,000 views a day. People seemed to really like looking at the band member's personal profiles.
After that, the job was just updating their website while starting a massive wave of social media presence. Kia was great at giving me perfect pictures for Instagram. We had become professional email buddies, corresponding regularly. She would send me new videos to upload on the website and approve the changes I made before I pushed them through. A few weeks of this process and she began to trust my judgment in posting on behalf of the band. It was a good amount of work, and I was making enough billable hours to pay rent and keep the company running. Kia even recommended me to a few other bands on the indie scene.
I went from a very open calendar to a very busy one. I loved it. The number of projects and diversity kept me engaged throughout the day.
I sent Kia a thank you basket for spreading the word about me. I had known that delving into this market would shoot my company up. If I could keep the momentum going, I'd eventually be able to hire employees and expand my offerings. But I needed to focus on my clients right now to get there, continuing to deliver outstanding products and services that made them want to brag to their friends about my excellent and unique work.
***
One evening, while working on updates for an author client of mine, I received an email from Gabriel. We hadn't been keeping contact since Kia handled everything. To be honest, I had almost forgotten about our little tryst. Never had I disillusioned myself into thinking that it was anything more than a one-night stand.
I smirked as I clicked on the email and a self-made meme came up of Gabriel doing the typical rock star pose wearing only a pair of sweats. No shirt. No makeup. Normal hair. He looked absolutely ridiculous.
Scrolling down, I read his message:
“Hey, Abby! Great work on the website! I'm getting tons of fan emails. It's exciting! Are you having fun? Haha. Probably not, Ms. Stick in the Mud! Take a break, on me, and come see the band play. We are coming back to town for a few gigs. I'm guessing that Kia told you that already, though. I've attached a VIP pass to this email for you to come backstage! The band wants to thank you. We have a larger venue, and we aren’t opening for anyone. This is our first real, big gig. So come celebrate!
See you there!
Gabriel”
I snorted. Compared to Kia, Gabriel wasn't professional at all. It was a cute email, though.
Attached was a ticket with VIP access, as Gabriel had said. Opening it, I hit the print button. Why not. Might as well see the band and congratulate them on their success.
I needed to bring an appropriate gift. Flowers wouldn’t work. A fruit basket maybe? What screamed congratulations on your success? I had until Friday to figure it out, so at least there was that.
Closing my laptop, I smiled. This would be fun.
***
Friday after work, I drove downtown, fruit basket and card in hand. I hadn’t found anything better. Traffic was thick, but I still got there early enough.
Showing my ticket, security let me in the back, and I waved down Kia as she was rushing around getting the band together.
“Ah, Abigail, you made it. What is that?”
I handed her the fruit basket. “My thanks to the band, and congratulations on the gig.”
“How thoughtful. I’ll deliver it. Come back after the show, okay? If you stay through the whole thing. I know rock isn't your scene.” She gave me a look of sympathy.
I laughed. “It's not, but it's growing on me. I’ll stop by after.” I waved, stepping off.
Kia waved back. She was being much friendlier today than usual. Maybe the success of the band had put her in a better mood.
I went down to the VIP area and found my seat. The concert flew by, Gabriel’s voice dragging the crowd with him. I recognized several songs from his last concert. He was dancing and moving and owning the stage, his band members accenting him beautifully. This time, Gabriel was wearing all black while the rest of the band was clad in white. They did a few costume changes throughout the show and dazzled fans with theatrics and fireworks. It was a great performance.
I was on my feet cheering with the others as The Flaming Arrow ended their last song, thanking the fans and shooting free t-shirts into the audience with a t-shirt launcher. Gabriel threw one at the VIP area, and none of the other guests rushed to grab it, so I politely picked it up, tucking it into my purse.
Once they exited the stage, all of the VIPs flowed out towards backstage. I slipped into the bathroom, fixing my hair and the bit of makeup I had applied.
Confident I looked good, I tucked a few stray strands of hair into my ponytail and walked out, making my way back. Security didn’t even check my ticket. He recognized me from earlier and nodded me in past the music bloggers and entertainment reporters who were waiting for the band to emerge.
When I reached the backstage area, I had to cover a laugh. Yet again, Gabriel had that lost look with all the fans surrounding him. The sole woman from the VIP area, besides me, was clutching his arm, flirting viciously. Her hand was reaching everywhere, and he looked so uncomfortable.
I slipped by and saw Kia packing up. “Did it go as planned?” I asked, high fiving Felicia as I walked by.
“Abigail, did you see me up there? The colors tuned in to my board!” she said excitedly.
“It was beautiful. I've never seen such a thing,” I replied honestly, and she laughed.
“Make sure you get videos of that on the website!”
I nodded, laughing.
“It went off as planned,” Kia said once Felicia was gone. “I’m glad you stayed.”
“There she is.” Gabriel’s voice called. I figured he was talking to Felicia until I felt him standing behind me.
I turned around, and he grabbed me, tugging me close. “This is my girlfriend. I’m sorry. I appreciate the invitation, but she would be utterly offended if I accepted another girl’s offer.” He grinned, leaning down as if kissing me and whispering in my ear. “Roll with it, please.”
I kissed his cheek, fighting back the urge to roll my eyes. “You know I would be devastated if you did that. Especially when you've been too busy to take me on a date.” I frowned, turning towards the woman who had been clinging to Gabriel earlier.
“Oh.” She seemed startled by my presence.
“No need to cause a scene,” Gabriel muttered.
As she walked off, I turned and glared at him. “Why didn’t you just ask Kia?!”
“Everyone knows that Kia's my manager. They know we're not dating. They don't know you,” he explained, rubbing the back of his neck.
