I clutched his shirt, pulling him down with me. His hungry mouth captured mine and he covered my body with his. There was urgency in the kiss--we couldn't get enough of each other. My hands tangled in his hair as his arms wrapped around me, then he rolled onto his back, pulling me on top of him. His hands were everywhere on my body, touching, caressing, teasing, tormenting. I broke the kiss to gasp for air. Our eyes met and I whimpered. With both hands on my face, he brought my mouth to his our tongues intertwining.
When the ache between my legs became unbearable, I ground my pelvis against his. He moaned deep in his throat. I pulled at his shirt, unable to get it off and desperately needing the feel of his skin next to mine. He managed to remove it with one mighty tug, barely breaking the kiss, and I thought I heard the fabric rip. His hips met mine, and I could feel the dampness between my thighs. I sat up to unfasten my robe with his assistance, and before I knew it, we were both almost naked. He flipped me onto my back and ran his tongue down my neck, working his way lower. Everywhere his tongue traced, my skin felt as if it would burst into flame. My moans became pleas as he assailed first one breast and then the other.
My hands fisted in his hair as he drew each of my nipples into his mouth in turn, unrelenting in his task. My body needed his to release this built up energy inside me. When I felt him tugging on my panties, I lifted my hips so he could free me from the confines of the barrier between us. He abruptly stopped, a small grin playing on his lips. Already my body ached for his touch.
"You're beautiful, Claire," he breathed, and I felt the words wrapping around me like silk, as his fingers sought my opening. My body rocked up to meet his hands. His eyes locked on mine as he slid in one finger, then two. My body hummed in anticipation of the building orgasm.
"You're so wet, Claire. I need to taste you." His eyes begged my permission, and I nodded, gladly granting it.. He pulled me forward until his mouth claimed and tasted me. The orgasm inside me was rapidly building as his tongue explored my folds. He sucked on my clit until spots blinded my vision. I let out a scream, my body shaking as the orgasm slowly subsided.
I was still dizzy from the orgasm when he grabbed one of my legs and positioned it over his shoulder. He slowly entered me, filling me inch by inch. He captured my lips with his, and I could taste myself on him. I moaned as he pushed further in, his eyes burning with the need I felt.
"You taste so fucking good, and you feeling amazing. I don't know what I like more--tasting you cum in my mouth or feeling you on my cock." I rocked up to meet him and his eyes fluttered shut. "Easy, Claire, or I won't last," he warned.
I raised my hips again, and he let out a deep groan. "We have all night," I murmured. He was still a second longer and then began to pound into me. and I could feel another orgasm building. Then we were both trying to catch our breath. Buck rolled off and pulled me onto his chest. I nestled into him, smiling while a warm feeling spread throughout.
"Give me a minute,” he whispered, “then I am definitely doing that again." His voice sent shivers down my now hypersensitive spine. We remained in that position, listening to each other breathe, until I felt his erection growing behind me. I laughed at his eagerness.
We continued to explore each other's bodies all night. When dawn finally broke, I curled up next to him, exhausted, yet happy. He pulled me closer, kissing the top of my head, and I closed my eyes, allowing my drained body to fall into slumber.
Chapter 15
Claire
I headed into work the next day with a smile on my face. I quickly opened the store and set my coffee next to the register. The time seemed to drag by as I checked every few minutes. I was leaving by four that afternoon to get ready for the New Year's Eve Bash. I glanced at the clock again and sighed. Only eleven thirty. Echo would be coming in soon, so I decided to dust some of the shelves for what seemed like the hundredth time that morning. When she strolled in, I tried to contain my excitement.
"Good afternoon, Echo! How are you today? Any plans for tonight?"
"Umm, did you have too much coffee today?"
"Nope, I’m just so excited. I mean, tonight is our first official date and you know--I am just excited." I grinned and shrugged. Echo continued to watch me skeptically as I fidgeted with the hem of my blouse. When I glanced at her again, she wore a smile that spread across her face. "What?” I asked. “Do I have something on my face? Seriously, Echo, why are you smiling?"
"Oh, I think you know why. I can totally tell when someone other than me has gotten lucky."
I stared in confusion until it dawned on me what she meant. I could feel my face heat with the revelation.
"I knew it! You got lucky didn't you?" Echo crowded.
"I--I--well the thing is, I--and I mean Buck and--you know." My face was on fire as I desperately tried to come up with something more intelligent to say. I failed miserably. My stomach knotted. I didn't know if I should be discussing this with her. I wasn't sure how Buck would feel if I blabbed the details.
"What's the matter? I'm sorry if I upset you. I thought this would make you happy. I didn't mean to tease you, Claire." She reached out and put a hand on my shoulder, squeezing gently.
"No, you're fine. I just never really talked to Buck about it. What if this was a one-time thing?" My chest felt hollow.
"Oh, Claire," she soothed. "Buck likes you. Besides, he really doesn't seem like the kind of guy to do that."
"You're right. I guess I still have some reservations when it comes to men." The bell on the door dinged. I looked up to see a man making his way into the store.
"May I help you?"
As he came closer, I could see better that he was carrying a long, narrow box. "Delivery for Claire B," he stated.
Echo squealed and took the package from him. She ripped off the brown paper on the top, then oohed at the contents. I looked in the package and saw a bouquet of pink lotus flowers. I didn't know much about them, only that they were exquisite. My chest tightened.
"There’s a note," Echo informed me. "Should I read it for you?"
"No, let me, please." My hands shook as I reached for it.
Claire,
I wanted to give you something that reminded me of you. I choose this because you remind me of the lotus. The lotus endures the coldness of the water. It has to navigate through the muck, and fight its way to through the weeds. The lotus does not give up until it reaches the surface. Once it reaches the surface, it blooms in the sunlight, revealing its exquisite beauty for all to see. You have allowed me to see your exquisite beauty.
Yours,
Buck
The tears were flowing before I finished the note. I was touched by the beauty of the story and his comparison of me to the lotus. But mostly, I was grateful that he was beyond what I was hoping for in a man. Without a word, I handed the note to Echo. By the time she was done, tears glistened in her eyes, too. I could not stop re-reading the note. This was the single most beautiful gift I had ever received.
The bell on the door dinged and I looked up to see the man responsible for the gift. Buck stood with his hands in his pockets, looking nervous. Why?
I stepped away from the counter and ran to where he was standing. I crashed into him, my lips finding his. He wrapped his arms around me and we kissed. My hands gripped the back of his neck, never wanting to release him. His tongue met mine, and the tightness in my chest grew until I found it hard to breathe. I broke the kiss and looked into his crystal blue eyes.
He smiled down at me, his thumb swiping away a lingering tear. "I hope you like the flowers."
More than anything. "That was the single most beautiful gift I have ever received." On my tippy toes, I placed a small kiss on his lips.
"You deserve it Claire, always." Such sweet passion in that voice.
"I think this means he had a good time, too, Claire." Echo butted in.
#
At home after work, I hurried to get ready for the party and our first date. Butterflies danced in my stomach. After
my shower, I quickly put on my favorite black lacy panties and matching strapless bra and worked on my hair until ringlets cascaded around my face. I added extra make-up on my eyes to get that "smoky look", then went back to my room to don my new form fitting dress. Strapless with a sweetheart neckline and long skirt slit up the side, it clung to my body in all the right places. I finished the look with strappy black heels and the beautiful pendant Buck had given me for Christmas.
"Mommy you look beautiful." Maggie had been in her bedroom playing with Pippi, but now stood in the doorway.
I gazed in my full length mirror and almost didn't recognize myself. For the first time in a long while, I felt beautiful.
"Thank you, Maggie." I gave her a kiss on the head. It was time to get going and drop her off at Annie's for the night. The doorbell rang, and I answered it to find Buck in his tuxedo, looking gorgeous. His blue eyes were bright, his hair messy in a sexy just-got-out-of-bed style.
"Claire, you look perfect. You're beautiful." He shook his head. "How did I get so lucky?"
"You look great, too, Buck." I smiled and bit my lower lip.
"Claire." He blew out a breath. "Please don't do that, or I won't be able to make it to the party."
I grinned at him and licked my lips suggestively, laughing when he let out a low groan.
We took Maggie to Annie's, who stalled us long enough to take dozens of pictures. There were some by the fireplace, some on the stairs, but I had to tell her enough when Mark suggested we take one with his John Deere.
As we drove to the party, Buck held my hand. He was so handsome in his tux. He caught me sneaking a glance at him and brought my hand up to his mouth, kissing my knuckles. Heat spread through my body. I was melting. Why did I find everything he did so attractive?
"Claire, you have to stop, or I won't make it to this New Year's party," he warned again.
"Buck, am I turning you on?"
"You’ve had me turned on since the day I met you."
Oh wow. "Okay I’ll try, but aren't you curious about what I’m wearing under the dress?"
Buck gripped the steering wheel, blowing out another shaky breath. He abruptly slowed down and pulled to the side of the road. "Let me see."
"Buck, you can see later."
His head fell back on the headrest, and he closed his eyes briefly. He took a deep breath, then turned towards me. Voice strained, he murmured, "Okay, here is the plan. We eat, we dance, then I take you to my place, and I make love to you."
"Yes, please!" I agreed. If he had asked me to skip the party, I would have. I leaned over to give him a kiss, and he met me halfway. He teased me with his mouth on mine but, but when I tried to deepen the kiss, he pulled back. This time, when I groaned, it was his turn to laugh.
Chapter 16
Claire
We ate dinner while a sultry female voice sang onstage. She was accompanied by a band of musicians. The soft light from candles on the tables made the room glow. Buck rested a hand on the back of my chair, his fingers delicately brushing my bare skin. As the band played into a slow song, people began to take up spots on the dance floor.
"Claire, could I have this dance?" Buck stood at my chair, hand extended. I placed my palm in his and allowed him to lead to the dance floor. We moved together, his right hand on my lower back, his left hand clasping mine closely to him. I rested my head on his chest, loving the feel of his body so close to me. His faint scent of aftershave lingered, and I inhaled, wanting to burn it into my memory. We continued to sway to the music, our bodies melding together, until the band switched to an upbeat number. I detached myself from Buck reluctantly, cold without his body heat. He smiled down at me, his hand on the small of my back as he walked me towards the table.
"I'll be right back. I’m going to use the bathroom and get us some drinks." He placed a small kiss on my head and walked away. My face ached--I had no idea how long I had been smiling, but from the feel of my cheeks, it must have been all night. I sat down and looked through my purse for my phone. Three missed calls. I scrolled through them and saw Annie's number pop up. She’d left me three voicemails. I tried to listen to the messages but couldn’t hear, so I got up quickly and walked to the lobby where I found a quiet corner.
"Claire, don't freak out, but we are headed to the hospital with Maggie. She fell. I think she may need stitches."
My heart began to race as I listened to the next voicemail.
"Okay, we just got to the hospital. Call me!"
Frantic, I listened to the next message.
"Claire, everything is okay. I just want to say they’ve taken her to an examining room. I’m not sure my phone will work in there."
I glanced at the time. It was only five minutes since the last call. I dialed Annie’s number, but it went straight to voicemail. Shit! I needed to find Buck and get to the hospital. I scanned the lobby for his tall figure and spotted him, but halfway there I stopped in my tracks. He was talking to his colleagues, but next to him, her tentacles draped around him, was Jenny. She was whispering into his ear, her hands all over him. I swallowed nausea at the sight. At that moment Jenny looked up at me, a devilish grin forming on her face. She leaned into Buck and kissed his cheek, never taking her eyes off me. Bile rose up my throat. Abruptly, I turned and walked toward the lobby. I found the exit and continued outside, not even worrying about my jacket. Tears crashed down my cheeks. I was at least a mile and a half away from the hospital, but I didn't care. I needed to be with Maggie. I headed in that direction, scared for Maggie and heartbroken by Buck. How could I trust him so easily? Why would he let her touch him all over while on a date with me? My phone began to ring. I grabbed it and looked at the name. Buck. I hit the ignore button. I began to shake from the cold but my skin was on fire.
By the time I arrived at the hospital, my feet were aching. The warm blast of air in the lobby burned my skin. I looked frantically around the waiting area, searching for someone to tell me what was going on. I hurried to a nurse sitting at a desk.
"I’m looking for my daughter, Maggie Blair. She was brought in by my sister, Annie Grayson." The nurse clicked at the keys on her computer.
"Yes, she’s in room five. Just go through there and you will see it." She pointed at a set of double doors to her left.
I pushed through the doors, scanning for room five. I noticed Matt pacing in the hallway. He looked up and saw me, relief evident in his expression.
"What happened? Is Maggie okay?"
"She’s fine. She knocked over a vase and slipped and cut her hand." Tears filled my eyes. I pushed past Matt and into the room.
"Mommy, I'm getting stitches!" Maggie exclaimed. Only my little girl would think this was cool. I took a deep breath. She just had a small cut on her hand needing only a few stitches. I wrapped her in my arms, Rose and Annie watching with pale faces.
"Are you okay, sweetie?" I asked. Maggie nodded. "Are you okay, Annie?" She looked sick, but shook her head no. "Why don't you go get some coffee? I’m here, so I can take care of Maggie." Both Annie and Rose left the room looking like zombies. I shook my head at the sight.
"Annie doesn't like blood. Neither does Rose. I thought they were going to puke."
An older balding man walked in just as I was about to laugh at Maggie's comment. He put three tiny stitches in her hand and gave her a sucker and a pair of doctor gloves she absolutely adored. We returned to the waiting room and to my sister and her family.
"Claire, I am so sorry! It happened so quick. One minute we were dancing, the next there was blood everywhere."
"It was a couple of drops" Matt stated.
"It was a bloodbath!" Annie appeared ready to faint.
"It's not anyone's fault,” I assured her. “I’m just glad Maggie is all right. Do you think you can give us a ride home?"
"Where's Buck, and how did you get here?"
"I walked, so can we get going? I think I’ve had enough excitement for one night."
"You walked? Why? What happened?" Annie
gave me a questioning look as we started for the car.
"I don't want to talk about it right now. I just want to get Maggie home and settled."
We drove to my place and I got Maggie settled in her bed with a bowl of ice cream, then went to the living room and got my phone out of my purse. I had four missed calls from Buck. I couldn't even think about him and the Barbie. The phone rang in my hands. Buck was calling again.
"Hello?"
"Claire, what happened? I looked everywhere for you." He sounded nervous.
"I had an emergency with Maggie and needed to go to the hospital."
"You had an emergency? Why didn't you tell me? What kind of emergency?"
"Maggie cut her hand and needed stitches."
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"I was going to, but you were busy with the Barbie."
"What? Oh, you don't think she and I..." Buck paused. "Claire, there is nothing going on between us. How did you get to the hospital?"
"I walked."
"You walked instead of asking me to take you? Why?"
"Well, I was going to ask you, but Barbie made sure to have her hands on you and when I saw her kissing you, I just decided to go by myself." Now I was acting like a jealous teenager.
"Claire, you should have come over. I don't know why she kissed me. Can I come over so we can talk about this?"
"No, I really need to take care of Maggie, and I think I need some space."
"How can you say that? I have done nothing to deserve your mistrust. I know what it probably looked like, but if you’d come up and talked to me, you would have heard me ask her repeatedly to not touch me."
"You're probably right, but I think this proves I may not be ready for this to go any further." A tightness settled in my chest. Did I really want to do this? "Goodbye Buck."
I hit the end button and let the tears pour down my face. Buck had been nothing but nice to me since we met. But the sight of him and Barbie made me incredibly angry. I got ready for bed, hoping the heavy feeling in my chest would go away.
Through The Pieces Page 8
