Unlikely Venture (The Venture Series Book 1)

by Luciani, Kristen

  Dr. Martin’s office would have the results in a couple of days. I can’t think about that now. I’m going to stay positive and look forward. She hurried into a Barnes and Noble on the corner and made a beeline for the Business section. There was a new book on funding for technology start-ups with great online reviews and she wanted to get it for James. She fingered through the titles and grabbed the only available copy.

  The cashier line was so long it wrapped around the new release display. Forget this, I’ll just grab a latte and pay at Starbucks.

  Jessica scrolled through the checklist on her iPhone while she waited to order. Dry cleaner, drug store, nail appointment. All doable if she could get out of here in the next few minutes. Come on, how long does it take to pour some coffee?

  “So, it seems that you’re not really great with tying up loose ends.”

  Jessica’s head jerked up. She spun around, coming face to face with Paul Emerson. A blush warmed her cheeks and she cursed herself for showing any signs of nervousness.

  She flashed a sheepish grin. “I’m sorry about my behavior at the concert. I guess the champagne hit me pretty hard. Plus this has been kind of a crazy week. Up until this afternoon, I didn’t think there was even a new practice to discuss.”

  A concerned look crossed his face. “Something happened?”

  “My boss is a grade-A jerk and it seems that he was trying to take me off the project and stick me at some client site downtown. Not sure why. But this morning I heard from the partner in charge that I need to get back out to California, and my boss shouldn’t have interfered with that plan.” Jessica shook her head. “I don’t know what his game is, but I’m on my way back out tomorrow. I guess running into you now is a good coincidence?” Why the hell is he even here? Doesn’t he have an assistant to get his coffee?

  Paul smiled. “Well, I’m glad to hear all your hard work wasn’t in vain. I’d be happy to spend some time with you, if you’re still interested. Are you free now?”

  Jessica hesitated, knowing she needed a network to make this practice work. Paul could be key to getting the bigger clients to sign with DMC. I guess I can do my own nails…

  “Um, yes, that would be great, if you’re sure you have the time.”

  “I can always fit in some time for an old friend.” He winked and paid for the drinks.

  Jessica followed him to a quiet corner and sat down. She cleared her throat, a nervous smile plastered on her face. Why do I feel so guilty being here with him? I’m not doing anything wrong. I have to make sure he knows this isn’t leading back to his apartment.

  “You know I’m not going to bite, right?” He chuckled and picked up his cup.

  “I know. It’s just that this whole situation is a little weird to me. I mean, what happened between us, I don’t do that...ever. I feel like it’s the elephant in the room, you know? I don’t want to give you the wrong impression about my intentions. It would be great to have an opportunity to work with you, but I want to keep things on a professional level. I’m not looking for anything more than that.” She averted her eyes for a moment. I need his help but not if it comes with strings.

  “Listen, don’t read too much into this. It was just a fun night, a very fun night. We can leave it at that if it makes you feel comfortable.” He shrugged his broad shoulders.

  Jessica smiled with relief. Thank God! She knew now that her heart was with James. I’m not about to mess it up.

  Paul took a sip of his coffee. He appeared unruffled. Jessica wondered how many times he’d been turned down by a girl, if ever. A shield was drawn over his penetrating blue eyes, making it impossible to know what he was really thinking.

  “So tell me about your progress, Jessica.”

  Back to business. For good this time, I hope.

  “We have three clients signed in Palo Alto and they’re ready to kick off their projects. There’s also a fourth client…but I haven’t been able to sign them yet. I have a meeting set with the management team next week.”

  “What company is that?”

  “Secure Transact, ever hear of it? Their technology is amazing and the competition can’t touch them.”

  “Yes, I’ve heard of it.” Paul nodded, offering no other reaction.

  “That’s all you’ve got? Am I barking up the wrong tree with them or are you not at liberty to say?”

  Grinning, Paul took another sip of his coffee. “I plead the fifth.”

  “Okay, I understand. I’m not going to badger you. I’ll just go with my gut. Have you met with any other promising start-ups lately?” She changed the subject, wondering if he’d mention his meeting with LazerShark. Doubtful, but worth a shot.

  “Well, I can’t tell you if I have any companies on my roster that are investment-worthy, because that’s confidential.” He gave her a sly smile. “But I will say that I’ve seen several principals in the past couple of months that delivered really solid presentations, a couple of which I’m very interested in pursuing.”

  Dammit. No dice. “I see.”

  “Another thing I can tell you is that technology investments are extremely lucrative if they have the right cast of characters at the helm. I have to like the company concept and what the principals bring to the table before I decide to commit. I need to have confidence that they can deliver on their own strategy. It’s not always about the idea.” He paused with a smile. “It’s about the execution.”

  “Words to live by.” She looked down at her watch and gasped. Where had the time gone? “Listen, I’m really sorry to cut this short, but I have to run. My flight to Palo Alto is tomorrow morning and I still have to finish packing.”

  “Well, I’m glad we got the chance to chat again, Jessica. I wish you the best of luck with your work. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to give me a call.”

  “Thank you so much, Paul, I really appreciate all your insights.”

  Paul stood up as Jessica gathered her bags. “Anytime. Have a safe trip.”

  She hurried out of the café and headed down the street. Leading him on was a defense mechanism of sorts; she sensed he was still attracted to her even though she denied it to Lisa. Paul’s not in the market for anything long-term. Yeah, he’s gorgeous and I’m not going to lie…I like the attention. Who wouldn’t? But spending time with James really made me realize what I’ve been missing all this time. He’s the one who can fill that void, not Paul Emerson. It’s the fresh start I’ve been hoping for.

  PAUL SAT BACK and folded his arms. He watched Jessica hurry out the door and admired how her form-fitting skirt clung to her in all the right places. Maybe she said she wanted to keep things professional but her actions indicated there was still a spark between them. Paul loved nothing more than a challenge and he already knew she was worth the wait.

  I’ll just play it cool until she feels comfortable with the idea.

  He figured she was just a little gun-shy about being with him again so he decided to reach her on a different level. She’d be back in California next week at Secure Transact and he knew exactly how to break the ice.

  Until then, Jessica.

  JESSICA BOUNDED OFF the plane in her new flats, excited beyond words. She ran through San Francisco International Airport, clutching her carryon. The baggage carousel wasn’t very crowded, and her bags were out first. A quick jaunt to the taxi stand and she was on her way. Each passing minute brought her closer to James. She hugged herself in anticipation of seeing him again. It felt like months since she’d tasted his warm lips.

  She shot off a text to James with the address of the corporate apartment. When the cab driver pulled up to the complex a few minutes later, she took a deep breath. So much happened over the past few days, it was almost unbelievable that she was back in Palo Alto.

  Jessica squirmed under the lustful gaze of the cab driver. He gave her denim short-clad legs an appraising glance as she dug for a tip. “Thanks again!”

  He flashed a leering smile and trotted backwards towards the cab to get
a final look. Jessica turned her back to him, rolling her eyes as she walked inside.

  Her new home was on the third floor, right outside the elevator door. She walked in and gasped. Palatial was an understatement. The apartment was enormous and fully decorated, with a huge plush sofa and loveseat in the living room, a fireplace, elegant area rugs and dark walls adorned with antique-looking sconces. Jessica wandered down the hallway to check out the other rooms, marveling at the breathtaking decor. I better keep signing clients so I can stay here as long as possible!

  She peeked into one of the bathrooms and saw a large white marble Jacuzzi tab lining the back wall. Hmm…maybe that will come in handy sooner than later.

  With twenty minutes to spare, Jessica tore through her suitcases for a bag of toiletries. She raced to the bathroom, brushed her teeth and reapplied her makeup. A hot pink jersey dress was her pick for the evening, since it was wrinkle-free and left little to the imagination. Smoothing the front of the fabric, she regarded her reflection in the mirror. I definitely need some heels. This isn’t exactly a sneaker outfit.

  There was a knock just as she spritzed her favorite Cartier perfume. He’s here!

  She glided into the foyer and took a few deep breaths to calm her nerves. A wide smile spread over her face when she saw James. Entranced, Jessica inched closer and drew him in with a deep lingering kiss. She breathed in the delicious scent of cologne mingled with spearmint, her whole body tingling with pent up desire.

  James wrapped his arms around her and she let out a soft moan. His touch was rousing. Shivers ran down her spine and she melted against him in submission. When they finally pulled apart, Jessica saw that James was as flushed as she felt.

  “Hi.” Her palm grazed the side of his face. He kissed her hand as it neared his lips.

  “Wow.” His eyes twinkled. “Hello to you, too, gorgeous.” He bent to pick up a bouquet of lilies on the floor. “Sorry, I guess I got kind of distracted there for a minute and forgot about these.” He pulled out a bag of Starburst jelly beans from his jacket pocket. “And these.”

  “Yum!” She giggled. “The flowers are beautiful, thank you so much. I hope I can find a vase…”

  He let out a low whistle as he followed her inside. “This place is unreal. DMC does things in style, huh?”

  Jessica tore open the bag and popped a few into her mouth. “Only the best. It’s way nicer than the hotel, and there’s so much space. I’m going to get spoiled living here!” She found a vase in the kitchen and put the flowers on the half wall leading to the living room, admiring the vibrant colors.

  “I really missed you, Jess.” He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, burying his head in her neck. His breath was warm against her bare skin. “I’m so glad you’re back. I’ve felt…well, kind of lost since you’ve been gone. Is that weird?”

  Jessica smiled. “Yes. But I felt the same way, so it looks like we’re both a little off, huh?”

  He loosened his grip and turned her around, his eyes blazing with intensity. His fingers played with the tendrils of hair framing her face. “You’re so beautiful. I’ve thought about your face every night since we met, every single detail about it.”

  James flashed her a smile, breaking the spell. “Hey, I forgot we were supposed to go to dinner. You must be starving.”

  Jessica shifted closer. “I was.” Standing on her toes, she kissed him again and let the blissful sensations overtake her. The passion between them hadn’t cooled in the time they had been apart. If anything, the chemistry was even more powerful. I’ve dreamed of feeling this way for so long. I’m ready to take the next step.

  The setting sun cast a dim, romantic glow in the apartment. Jessica slipped off her heels and led him into the living room, hoping to appear more confident than she felt. He’s nervous, too. But I can’t seem to stop myself. Under his heated stare, lust consumed all rational thought. His mere presence made her ache.

  “So, I guess dinner is on hold?” His tone was innocent but a mischievous smile played at his lips.

  “Maybe permanently. Let’s see how things go.” Her hands shook a little as she trailed them down the front of his freshly starched shirt. She felt his heart beat faster; it matched the speed of her own. “Is this better than what you had in mind for tonight?”

  “You have no idea,” he breathed. Cupping her face, he drew her closer. “But I don’t want to rush it. Are you sure?”

  “Yes.” A hot flush warmed her insides. Every inch of her tingled with excitement as his fingertips grazed her skin. A delicious chill raced down her spine. They were so incredibly in sync. No one had ever elicited this kind of physical response, not that she’d been with many other guys. It's like my body craves him and knows what's coming next. Mmm, and it can’t wait. She let out a slow breath, praying she wouldn’t overheat from all the buildup. Her body was on fire; every sense was on high alert. Oh my God, it’s been so long…too long.

  With trembling fingers, Jessica unfastened the buttons on his shirt and slid it off. She ran her hand down the front of his smooth chest and felt his muscles ripple. Her breath caught when she met his gaze.

  He traced the outline of her lips. “Close your eyes.”

  Heart thumping, she obeyed. His breath was so warm on her skin. She tilted her head back as he trailed gentle kisses down her neck. His growing erection pressed against her and she nearly swooned. Only one coherent thought prevailed. Get him naked…now.

  When their lips met, a flurry of erotic sensations cascaded over her. He’s driving me crazy with that body! She ran her hands through his dark hair. Her heart did flip-flops as his tongue explored her hungry mouth. Oh yes, I’m sooo ready to—Hold it! Am I the guy here? Shouldn’t he be the one on the brink of losing control? Get a grip!

  With a languid movement, Jessica took a small step back. Let him come and get it now. She untied the belt on her dress so it fell open. He stared at her, mesmerized. “Can you help me with this?” she whispered.

  James smiled and moved closer. Goosebumps shot up her arms and down her legs. He slipped the straps over her shoulders. “This has to be uncomfortable too.” He toyed with her bra straps and unhooked the back. “I think we need to get it off right now.”

  Oh, yes we do! She slipped off the bra and pulled him onto the large plush sofa. Almost as big as a bed. Perfect.

  In slow motion, she positioned herself on top of him, enjoying the control she exhibited. I wonder how much more he can take. With a seductive look, she guided his hands over her bare skin. A shiver shot through as his hands explored her curves. “That feels so much better.”

  She traced a path over his bare chest with her tongue. His skin was so tanned and smooth. Strong hands gripped her firm backside and pulled her toward him. She rotated her hips, weak at the thought of him being inside her.

  “What are you doing to me?” His breathy whisper tickled her ear and heightened her arousal. With one swift movement, he was on top of her, his eyes dark with wanting.

  She shifted beneath him. “Are you taking over now?” Her attempt at a seductive purr wasn’t lost on James. He nodded without a word. His lips pressed to hers with a seemingly insatiable desire that sent chills to her core, despite the warmth emitted by the crackling fireplace.

  This was it. There was no turning back. Once we do this, everything changes…but it feels so right with him. How did I go so long without this? I’ve never experienced anything like it before. Maybe I’ve never really been in love. Oh my God, am I now? Is it even possible?

  Jessica fumbled with his belt buckle for what seemed like hours. It was dark and she couldn’t see well. Argh, why do they have to be button fly? She cringed and bit her lip. Pain shot through her finger as a corner of her nail tore off. Dammit! I’m really trying hard to be seductive here! Why am I so spastic? He’s going to think I’m a complete amateur! Squeezing her injured finger, she freed the last button without incident. Finally! She slid off his pants then reached into his boxer briefs, ea
ger to find out what was waiting for her. A gasp escaped her lips before she could stop it. Irish curse? Um, that would be a big, fat swollen no. She wrapped her fingers around him, her pulse racing with delight. Oh. My. God.

  “What’s wrong?” He looked down at her.

  She grinned. “Absolutely nothing. Now kiss me.” She pulled him closer and their mouths exploded against one another. He let out a soft moan as she stroked him with increasing intensity. “How does that feel?”

  “Mmm. So good. I want to make you feel the same way.” His warm fingers edged under her panties and probed her inner folds. She was woozy with desire. He knows just how to touch me. I can’t wait to find out what else he can do.

  Jessica’s mind was a blur; her emotions spun out of control. I can’t wait any longer, I want him now. Her chest heaved as James traced his lips over her navel. Within seconds, the lacy panties were off and his lips moved to her inner thighs. She clenched the sofa cushions in blissful agony but James ignored her silent pleas for release.

  “I know what you want, Jess.” His words made her quiver with exhilaration. “But you have to be patient.” She took a few deep breaths and tried to focus. Her body was frenzied by all of this teasing. This is so hot but he’s driving me insane! Her body grew more agitated with each passing second. His hands and mouth worked in tandem to stimulate her. Closer and closer…her pulse raced as his tongue inched toward her moist opening. She inhaled sharply and dragged her nails over his shoulders.

  Her insides were ablaze as his tongue explored and tantalized. The anticipation alone was enough to catapult her toward climax. The urgency of his movements made her cry out in ecstasy, the pleasure almost too much to bear. His mouth pulled her into levels of exhilaration she’d never before experienced. Tears sprung to her eyes in response to the sensations.

  Jessica’s skin tingled as he caressed her; it was so sensitive to his touch. All attempts to calm her breathing were futile. “Ohh…that was so…”

  His lips traced a leisurely path back to hers. “Hope you’re not done yet…we just got started.”