by Sierra Rose
The majestic, serene beauty took my breath away. As far as I could see, there were heavily clustered cherry blossoms in variations of pastel hues, from pure white, to baby pink, to shades of soft fuchsia. Occasionally, there was even a splash of crimson, and every subtle hue in between. The birds sang happily, and the sun shone on my face. I felt like I was standing in a postcard, and I’d never felt so calm, tranquil, and at peace.
When I glanced up at Jake, I couldn’t stop staring into his glittering blue eyes. I was madly attracted to him and felt those flirty somersaults in my stomach all over again. I couldn’t even explain the uncontrollable force that was drawing me to him like a moth to a flame.
Jake inched closer and touched the side of my face with a caress so tender it sent shivers down my spine. I took a step back, my fingers barely connecting with the material of his shirt as I placed a hand between us. My throat felt constricted; my heart hammered in my chest.
“This place is pretty stunning,” I said shakily, staring up at the pinkish-white canopy above us. “We can get a great picture right here.”
“Every time I get close, you push me away,” he whispered. “Why?”
“We’re friends, Jake,” I sternly reminded him.
“If you felt what I just did, there’s no way that’s all we are. Don’t you feel this hot, sizzling, intense, intoxicating connection?”
“Women are better at keeping their emotions in check,” I lied.
Tearing my gaze from him, I waved down a friendly Japanese woman to take our picture. We didn’t want to lug around the tripod, so we were forced to rely on the kindness of strangers. We stood underneath the glorious trees and smiled as she snapped the photo for us.
“You make beautiful couple,” she said in broken English.
“No.” I smiled.
“Yes. You beautiful couple.”
Jake put his arm around me and pulled me close. “She is beautiful, isn’t she? She’s the love of my life.”
“Aw. Very sweet,” the woman said, handing the camera back to him.
“Thank you,” I said, knowing there was no way to explain my predicament to a stranger who barely spoke the same language. I tugged on Jake’s sleeve. “What was that all about?”
He shrugged. “She’s right. We’re a beautiful couple.”
I cocked a brow.
“A couple just means two,” he said. “We’re two people, and we make a beautiful couple.”
“We used to,” I muttered under my breath.
“I have high hopes for us,” Jake said, walking under the sweeping branches. He reached out and caught a few falling blossoms.
I tried to ignore him and concentrate on the spectacular petals falling from the trees. The cascading spring blossoms took my breath away. It was one of the most beautiful things I’d ever seen.
Jake pulled me close, and I gasped. My heart began pounding in my throat again. I loved being in his arms; it felt so familiar, yet my body trembled at his touch. “Jake,” I whispered.
“I’ve missed you way too much,” he said, holding me closer—so close I could hear his heart beating.
I laid my head on his chest and was comforted by his strong arms and the warmth and scent of his body. For a minute, I let myself relax in his embrace.
“Was that so bad?” he asked, softly stroking my back.
I gazed up at him, then stepped a few inches back. “It’s this place. It’s just so magical, so…romantic.”
“It’s not the place, Ashly. It’s you.”
I smiled as we swayed and danced in the pink-petal snow. Jake held my gaze through the cloud of petals falling softly down on us and wrapped his arms around my waist, drawing me closer. His arms squeezed me more tightly, but his touch remained soft, like the blossoms themselves.
His mouth hovered over mine. I stared into his eyes and felt the strength radiating from him. Our eyes locked, and I wondered how the heck I’d ended up there in this blizzard of blossoms with my old flame. His gaze grew more penetrating and intense, and I knew he was daring me to take his lips in a soft kiss. As much as I tried to fight it, I felt the deep sensation of magnetism and heat.
Somehow, I managed to put my palm on his chest and push him away before the kiss could ever take place. “We better go get the second picture,” I said. “It’s gonna get dark soon.”
“And we still have to rent canoes in Chidorigafuchi at twilight,” he said.
He suddenly slipped his finger through mine and held my hand. A jolt shot down my spine. His hand was hard and callused, but it felt incredible. Still, I knew it was wrong to lead him on, because I wanted nothing more than friendship, if even that. At least that was what I tried to keep telling myself. I couldn’t let him seduce me, only to be duped once again at the end. I wouldn’t fall for it. I wasn’t that stupid.
“Ashly? Did you hear me?”
“Huh?”
“Do you wanna come back tomorrow and do the canoes?”
I let out a trembling breath and let go of his hand. “No, let’s go tonight.”
He smiled, and off we went. It was a beautiful place, with walkways, bridges, and boats zooming across the waters of the surrounding moat. We rented a canoe and started rowing. I stared at all the smiling faces around us, laughing and having fun. Giant cherry trees lined each side of the bank, illuminated with white and soft pink lights. Most amazing of all was how the flowers and lights reflected off the surface of the slow-flowing water; that made everything all the more romantic and mysterious.
With a breeze cooling our faces, we floated through the cherry blossom trees, gazing up at the tall branches and listening to birds as they sang their sweet melodies. Farther along, the lights shone down on more flowers that were dancing in the wind. As we laughed and joked together, my heart beat in a furious rhythm. Every time his skin brushed mine, a thrill ran right through me.
“It’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen,” I said. “The landscape just comes alive with all that colorful pink. We’ve gotta come back next year.”
“We?” he asked, shooting me those pearly whites.
“Uh…I meant me. I’ve gotta come back here next year,” I said, then looked away.
“Your mother picked the most beautiful spots for these photographs,” he said.
“She definitely picked the most beautiful places,” I agreed. “Can you imagine rowing in the daytime? I bet it’s just as gorgeous as twilight.”
* * *
Back at the hotel, I brushed my teeth and got ready for bed. I wrapped my silk robe over my white gown and fastened it tightly. I could hear Jake laughing as he watched television, lying in his makeshift bed on the floor. I made some phone calls, sent some texts and emails, and tapped away on my laptop.
“You’re missing the best movie,” he said.
“I’m busy, Jake.”
“You’re on vacation, Ashly. Now shut that thing off and come watch this movie with me.”
I glanced down at him. “What are you watching?”
“Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad. It’s absolutely hilarious.”
I watched the light from the television flicker across his face as he laughed. “I guess a good laugh won’t hurt,” I said. “Haven’t really had one in forever.”
“Well, here’s your chance.”
I shook my head. “Tempting, but I can’t. I’m busy.”
“Friends watch movies together.”
I bit my lip and contemplated. “Are you naked under those covers?”
“No, but I can be, if you prefer.” He had an adventurous gleam in his eye as he threw off his blanket.
I sighed in relief when I saw that he was actually dressed. I grinned back at him, and again I found myself lost in those blue gems of his. “I’ve got a better idea. How about you stay dressed and come enjoy the soft bed with me? Just don’t get any ideas, and no touching whatsoever. You get one side, and I get the other.”
He jumped up on the bed. “Deal.”
> I shut my computer off as Jake made himself comfortable, respecting my wishes to keep his distance. We both got totally engrossed into the movie and couldn’t stop laughing. I hadn’t laughed that hard in a long, long time, and it felt wonderful.
He turned to look at me. “Isn’t this the best comedy ever?”
I nodded, holding his gaze. I couldn’t stop looking at him, at his bright smile, at his eyes, at his messy hair. He was simply gorgeous, even in the dim light.
After the movie, he playfully pulled the pillow from under my head and messed up my hair. “I’m taking this. It’s not fair that you get all the pillows.”
I laughed as he met my gaze.
“Just wanted to tell you I had a great time tonight.” He shot me one last smile. “Goodnight,” he said. He switched off the television and lights, then hopped back to his bed on the floor.
“Goodnight,” I said softly.
Jake was the love of my life, but he’d broken my heart. I tried so hard to hate him, but I couldn’t. What I really hated was that I couldn’t stop thinking about him.
Chapter 8
The sun peeked through the curtains as I packed up. I decided to wear my crystal-blue, pleated, sleeveless tunic, with white shorts and copper sandals. I figured shorts would be perfect for Puerto Rico. My copper earrings and bracelets pulled the look together, and I put my hair in a very high ponytail.
When I walked over to the bathroom to gather up my makeup and toiletries, Jake came out in nothing but a towel. For a moment, I couldn’t stop staring at his rippling muscles and broad shoulders.
He couldn’t stop staring at my legs either. “Cute outfit.”
“Thanks,” I said. “Yours isn’t bad either. Terrycloth brings out your…eyes.”
He laughed.
As I leaned against the wall so he could squeeze by, we just stared deeply into each other’s eyes. His gaze made my body burn hot. My thoughts drifted back to those times when he’d rip off my clothes and we’d make love for hours. I could practically hear the tearing of clothes echoing in my mind, me moaning in pleasure as his hands glided over my chest. I wondered if his kiss was as hot as I remembered. I almost dared him to rip my clothes off, but I knew if I let those words tumble clumsily out of my mouth, we’d be making love on that hotel bed and would miss our flight. “I’m here. Take me. I’m yours.” If only I could say those words, I would have had him right there, right then. I could picture his lips trailing along my jaw line to my chin. I bit my lip in an effort to fight the urge to rip that towel right off of him.
He tore his gaze from me and headed back into the bathroom, but he didn’t shut the door. I peeked in and caught a glimpse of his perfect, muscular backside. I bit my thumb. Damn, he has a nice ass. I quickly turned around, feeling naughty for looking.
When Jake came out of the bathroom, my gaze shot straight to his long-sleeved, white shirt that hung open, exposing his sculpted chest. I was sure he’d roast in his black slacks, because everything about him was already smoldering.
“We’re going to Puerto Rico,” I said. “I suggest wearing short sleeves and shorts.”
Smiling, he whipped off his shirt. Heat flooded my cheeks. I watched as his muscles contracted and expanded as he reached down, lifted his suitcase to the bed, and unzipped it.
“I don’t remember asking for a striptease,” I said with a smile.
He fumbled through his suitcase. After gathering a new outfit, he rushed into the bathroom and came out in a casual white shirt, with brown shorts and sandals.
“Much better,” I said.
He smiled. “Meh, I aim to please.”
After doing one last search for our belongings, I gave Jake the thumbs-up. I went to reach for my suitcase when his fingers brushed against mine, and my heart took on a staccato rhythm again.
“I got it,” he said.
Our eyes locked again, and again we were lost in each other’s gaze, oblivious to anything else. I couldn’t deny our shared connection. There was something so special about him, and I knew I couldn’t stay away from him, even if I had to. Some voice inside me reminded me that we had to just be friends, but a louder voice told me to grab him and never let go. My emotions were all over the place.
“Um…okay,” I barely managed to get out.
His gaze drifted to my lips, then back up to my eyes, and he smiled.
I lingered for a moment before leaving. I wondered if he was going to try to kiss me. As much as I wanted him to, I wasn’t really ready for something so bold—at least not yet. When he looked into my eyes, I quickly averted my dumbfounded smile to the ground. Even as my legs began to shake, the best thing I could do was pretend like his touch had no effect on me.
* * *
In Puerto Rico, we checked into the Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa, and the bellhop took our luggage. The hotel was beautiful, and the lush landscaping was breathtaking against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.
As we walked up to our room, Jake put his hand on my lower back. I glanced up at him, and he smiled widely as his touch lingered. I grinned. His hand clasped around mine, making my skin tingle. His warm, soft fingers rubbed against the back of my hand lightly as he led me into Room 516.
Our accommodations were gorgeous, spacious, and elegant, with a big balcony that offered an ocean view. I could hear the crashing waves, and I couldn’t wait to take a walk on the white, sandy beach.
I felt grimy from traveling, and the room was hot, so I turned on the air, jumped in the shower, and put on a white lace and chiffon, spaghetti-strap dress. I felt so refreshed and cooled down.
After I unpacked, I spent an hour on my laptop writing a fashion article called, “Contemporary Woman: Fashion and Style Tips to Live By.” It was due in two weeks for my real job.
I walked out on the balcony and took in the incredible view. Jake wrapped his arms around me from behind and lifted the hair off my neck as he softly kissed the most sensitive spot on my neck. Goosebumps erupted all over me, and I gasped deeply. He lightly stroked and caressed my neck with his fingertips, then slid down the delicate strap of my dress and kissed my shoulder. He knew that was a big turn-on for me, a sexy move that worked every time.
“You’re all work and no play,” he said.
“Jake,” I said, shivering with pleasure, “what are you doing?”
He peppered my neck with open-mouthed kisses. “What do you think?” His hot breath softly blew against my skin between kisses, and it literally drove me crazy.
“Mmm…that feels so good,” I said, wondering why I’d admitted that to him.
“I want you to feel good,” he whispered in my ear as his fingers glided down my bare arm. “I just need you to focus on us and forget about your phone and your laptop. Nadia is handling everything.”
Shivers shot down my spine again as he found my sweet spot on my neck. He began kissing me there, driving me absolutely insane with a desire I could hardly stave off. I knew I only had to turn around to claim his mouth in a mind-blowing kiss. Jake started giving me slow, wet kisses all over my neck, then nibbled a bit on my ear. I knew if he didn’t stop soon, it would be all over. I spun around and turned to face him. He was wearing a sexy smile, staring at my lips. I’d never felt so desirable. I softly traced his lips, lips I could have spent all of eternity kissing.
“I’m thirsty,” I blurted out. “I’m going to the bar.” I reached for my purse and rushed to get away from him.
“Ashly! You forgot your wallet,” he called after me.
“Thanks. I guess you have me all…discombobulated.”
“Mind if I join you? Maybe we can talk.”
“If you promise to behave. And I don’t wanna talk about whatever was going on in there.”
“Why can’t you just admit what you’re feeling?”
I swallowed hard. “I can. I’m not feeling anything.”
He met my gaze straight on. “I don’t believe you.”
I snorted and reached for his hand. “C’mon.”
>
We relaxed at the bar, enjoying the balmy breeze and live guitar music.
“What can I get you?” the bartender asked.
“Two piña coladas please,” Jake said.
I turned to face him and touched his shoulder. “That’s my favorite tropical drink.”
“Yup, followed by strawberry daiquiris.”
I beamed. “Let’s have both.”
He shrugged. “The more the merrier, right?”
“Right,” I said.
The bartender set the frosty drinks down.
Jake picked up the glass with the little umbrella in it and clinked my glass. “To old times,” he said.
“To old times,” I echoed.
A well-dressed woman came up to me and smiled. “I have to ask, where did you get that dress? It’s to die for.”
I smiled and blushed a little. “Thank you. I designed it myself. It’s from my White Moon Collection.”
“Really? Where can I get my hands on such a beautiful garment? I’ve never seen anything like it before, and I just love it.”
I smiled, reached in my purse, and pulled out a business card. “Here you go. There’s a website address on here for our online store.”
She took the card, thanked me, and walked away.
My eyes welled up with tears. I had worked so hard to create a distinctive style, and the fact that someone had noticed and wanted my creation made my heart spill over with joy.
“What’s wrong?” Jake asked.
“I’m just…flattered.”
“Well, I’m not surprised. The dress is stunning, extreme creativity at its finest.”
I smiled. “Thanks, Jake.”
After a few drinks, we moved into the restaurant for a first-class meal.
“It’s nice having dinner with you again,” Jake said.
“I admit, when we started this trip, I was a little childish, but I was so furious with you that I couldn’t think straight.”
“When you ran away from me in Australia at that sunset dinner on the beach, it hurt.”
