Box of 1Night Stands: 21 Sizzling Nights

by Anthology

  He slid off the bed, pulled on a pair of pants, and gathered her clothing, each piece a reminder of their magical night together. He sighed; in a few minutes she’d be gone. He hoped not forever.

  Volan stirred. “What are you doing?”

  He placed a finger to his lips. “I’m taking her home.”

  “No.” The sorrow across his brother’s face matched every ounce of the pain piercing his heart.

  “I have to, and you know it.”

  He scooped her up in his arms, careful not to wake her, for saying good-bye would be that much harder.

  “Will she return to us?”

  He removed the transporter remote from his pocket, fingering the apparatus he’d use to bring her back if she decided to rejoin them. “I hope so.” He’d already decided to postpone their departure, not wanting to leave without Danyka. Although he wouldn’t wait forever.

  His brother nodded. “Thank you for sharing her with me.”

  “Please return to your own room. When I get back, I want to be alone.” He initialized the transporter system—set for the address he’d found on a card in her small bag—before he had the chance to grow selfish. Staring at the bed he’d shared with the beautiful woman in his arms, he dematerialized.

  ***

  Danyka woke in her bed, the scent of jasmine wafting through her open window. She’d had the most amazing dream, two guys fulfilling her every desire in a room lined with satin. But she couldn’t remember getting home from the eighteenth century ball she’d attended with Vanessa and Ellie. They’d both left with the actors she’d introduced them to. She’d turned to leave and then….

  No. The guy, Galan, he couldn’t have been real. She’d concocted the fantasy to save herself from the disappointment of her date failing to show. And yet, the most erotic vision she’d ever had and so realistic with two men taking her to new heights. Her pussy still clenched at the memories. Perhaps she’d fallen at the ball, wound up with a concussion. But, how had she gotten home to bed? She had no clue.

  Slipping from underneath the covers, she slid her feet into fuzzy slippers and grabbed her robe from the foot of the bed. A rose atop a piece of paper on the nightstand caught her attention. Where did that come from?

  She picked up the note and read the distinctive handwriting.

  Danyka,

  Now you have met someone from another planet.

  Last night was just a sample of the life we would like to have with you.

  As our sodalis, our mate, your every wish, every desire, would be ours to fulfill.

  Should you long to return to us, call our names when the night is nigh and the stars shine bright in the sky. Then we will come for you and spend a lifetime worshipping you.

  Otherwise, you will soon forget about us, and we shall travel through space mourning the loss of the one we chose.

  The choice is now yours.

  Galan and Volan

  She gasped. It was real?

  The one night she’d decided to take a chance, to do something spontaneous, arranged by her boss and his wife, had left her more fulfilled than her entire life of meticulous planning. But could she leave her job and her friends behind? They’d been there when no one else had. But she could not deny the emptiness she felt when she returned to her apartment at night. She deserved to be happy, too. Right?

  Her phone chimed, indicating an incoming text message. She delved into her the clutch she’d had with her last night, for the device.

  Tamara.

  Great. How would she explain the turmoil rolling through her to her boss’s wife? Like she’d understand.

  How did your date go?

  Excellent, but the decision she had to make left her stomach churning. Very well! Thank you for arranging it!

  So, r u going to c him again?

  She longed to. Saying good-bye to everyone else kept her from saying yes. I don’t think it’s possible.

  Y not?

  He’s not from around here. Not even close. She couldn’t even hop on a plane to visit him for the weekend.

  Her phone remained silent for several minutes. She lay back on her bed, memories of the previous night flooding her mind. She yearned to be filled again. Could she emulate the same intensity with her own toys? She reached into the drawer of her nightstand when her phone beeped again. This time, an email.

  Danyka,

  I don’t mean to pry, but I’d like to know more about your date. If it went as well as you said, I’m sure you want to see him again. Perhaps you need more time off? Josh will understand. No matter what you decide, we will always be here for you.

  Tamara

  Would they understand? Time off meant a lifetime, not a week or even a year. She didn’t know if she would ever return. However, she had the opportunity to try something new and different, something out of this world. And she would not pass it up. Forget the toys; she craved the real things. Volan’s words echoed through her mind. We will love you forever.

  And she wanted nothing but forever.

  Grabbing her suitcase, she packed an outfit for every possible climate. Who knew where they’d end up? She’d spend the day writing timed emails to her friends and boss to inform them of her extended vacation, all while waiting for the night to come. She’d be gone by the time they received them.

  A few more minutes.

  As she spied the first star in the sky, her phone chimed. Should I even look?

  But her curiosity got the better of her.

  Tamara again.

  If you happen to visit the Space Service space station, be sure to say hello to Carrie for me. I wish you all the best.

  Space? How had she known? But a space station? Was that why Tamara’s best friend had been absent from the wedding? She had so much to learn. And the message cleared away any remaining guilt she’d held onto.

  Sitting on her bed, she looked to the darkened sky. “Galan and Volan, I choose you.”

  A light breezed blew her hair into her face. She sighed as fingertips slid across her shirt, tracing her tender nipples hidden underneath. Kisses trailed across the back of her neck. “Come to us.”

  Her limbs numbed and her body transported, leaving everything, including her suitcase, phone, and the clothes she’d been wearing, behind. The only thing she held onto was the handkerchief Tamara had left for her. For it belonged to her new lovers. When she opened her eyes, she lay back on the satin-covered bed, Galan and Volan, in all their naked glory, gazing down at her.

  “I’m glad you’ve returned to us,” Galan captured her lips for an intoxicating kiss.

  Wrapping her arms around him, she vowed never to plan anything again. Who knew where this new life would take her?

  ~ABOUT THE AUTHOR~

  Jessica Subject is the author of contemporary and science fiction romance, ranging from sweet to erotica. In her stories, you could meet clones, or a sexy alien or two. You may even be transported to another planet for a romantic rendezvous.

  When Jessica isn't reading, writing, or doing dreaded housework, she likes to get out and walk. Fast. But she just may slow down if there is a waterfall nearby.

  Jessica lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two energetic children. And she loves to hear from her readers.

  You can find her at jessicasubject.com and on twitter @jsubject

  Dragon Temptation

  A 1 Night Stand Story

  By

  Kali Willows

  Also by Kali Willows

  Designing Passion

  Damnation and Desire

  Savannah’s Ghost Tale

  Terminal Lust

  Double Dragon Seduction

  Dragon Temptation

  Tantric Storm

  Dragon’s Breath

  ~DEDICATION~

  To Pierre,

  My husband, my best friend, my confidant, and the person that inspires me most.

  Thank you for always helping my reach for the stars, and to go beyond my comfort zone in order to create & live l
ife to its fullest.

  You are my romance hero. IU.

  .

  Chapter One

  The morning light gleamed on the embossed ebony of the kanji letters. Helpless, she stared at the invitation.

  “Trust me, Cin, Madame Evangeline will find the perfect match, and it’s for one night, so why not?”

  Cindy rocked back in the recliner and shot her the evil eye. “Are you kidding me, Gwen? A sex date? For your wedding? Come on.”

  “The only ones who would know are you, me, and your date. Believe me, this is not something I would advertise. Your secret is safe.”

  “I don’t want to be the desperate maid of honor who needed a mercy date—it’s degrading.” Bolting out of her seat, she stormed toward the fireplace mantel, shielding her tears.

  “Hey.” Gwen’s wounded voice stopped her in her tracks.

  “Oh, honey.” She faced her, swiping at her cheeks. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to—it’s different for me.”

  “So, you don’t think I was desperate then?” She crossed her arms and glared.

  “Of course not. I’m such an ass.” Cindy hung her head and sighed. “Let’s be honest, you have always been far more adventurous than me.”

  “Adventurous, I like.” Gwen gave her a big hug. “It’s time to start living again, my dearest friend.”

  “With a one-night stand?” She let go then plopped down onto the couch, one leg tucked under her.

  “It’s not marriage or anything. A step toward some joy in your life. Tatsu and I may have fallen in love, but it doesn’t mean every match Madame Eve makes ends up in a commitment.” She sat down and patted her friend’s knee. “Our situation is—unique. That’s all. There’s no pressure.”

  “I don’t know.” Cindy glanced down at her bare ring finger.

  “Listen, I know how much you and John loved each other; it’s a real shame it didn’t work out.”

  “It was my fault.”

  “How can a miscarriage be your fault?”

  “Maybe I should have taken it easy.” She caressed her flat tummy.

  “It’s not like you were out skydiving and drag racing. Look at me.” Gwen cupped her chin in her hand. “Your own doctor said it was nature’s way of saving you more pain down the road.”

  “I understand there were too many things wrong with her development, it’s just—” A flow of tears streamed down her cheeks.

  “Lots of couples survive a tragedy, even losing a baby. John wouldn’t allow himself to grieve and get past it like a real man. It was wrong, how he treated you afterward.”

  “He was hurt.”

  “So were you. When you needed him most, he bailed.” Gwen passed her the tissue box. “Then he went right out, picked up some young chick, and knocked her up. What a kick in the face.”

  “He said he fell in love with her.”

  “A nineteen year old? Maybe he enjoyed the milk and cookies at bedtime.” Her snarky voice rose. “He’s twice her age; it’s wrong on so many levels.”

  At a sudden clatter over their heads, Cindy jumped. “What’s that?”

  “Oh, Tatsu called in the cavalry to fix the roof. Hey, I’m gonna get some water, would you like any?”

  “Please.” Dryness filled her mouth after the emotional upheaval.

  As Gwen disappeared into the kitchen, Cindy went over to the closed curtains. She pulled them open and gasped.

  “Oh, hey, sorry Cindy. I didn’t mean to scare you.” Yong’s muffled voice filtered through the glass.

  Your sexy little smile doesn’t make up for the fright of finding a half-naked man in the front yard. She glared.

  The stunned look on his face was brief, and then he busied himself on the ladder.

  Shirtless, he stood on the metal steps, reaching above him.

  She studied his sculpted pecs and chiseled abs through the clear barrier.

  Damn he’s hot. And his bright green eyes are so intense. I’d love to get my fingers in his long, dark hair…what the hell is wrong with me? He was with Gwen, why would I even let myself think about him?

  The lean, defined muscles in his arms and shoulders flexed as he worked, causing a stir deep inside her.

  Gwen said the Chinese symbol on his chest means double dragon. I wonder if it’s double because he’s a twin?

  “Beautiful, isn’t he?” She jumped at Gwen’s voice in her ear.

  “Dammit, don’t sneak up on me. What the hell is it with you people scaring me?” She grabbed the bottled water, twisted the cap off, and took a long, cooling drink.

  “I still don’t understand why you won’t ask him to be your date for the wedding. He’s going solo, too, and I think he likes you.”

  “We are not discussing this again.”

  “Fine, I’ll shut up about it.”

  “Thank you.”

  “But I think you’re missing out on something pretty wonderful,” her meddling friend whispered, eying the man candy out the window.

  Cindy yanked the curtains closed.

  “Man, you’re testy.”

  “Enough of this self-pity; let’s fill out the questionnaire before I lose my nerve.” She blew her nose and walked over to the computer.

  “That’s my girl, you won’t regret it.”

  “Fine, but no ménages for me.”

  “Don’t knock it. It had its perks.” Gwen’s mischievous smile made her chuckle.

  “Pervert.”

  “Sometimes!”

  Cindy answered question after question while her friend leaned over her shoulder making helpful suggestions until she wanted to scream or hug her…or both. Finally, she hit send and leaned back in the chair, staring at the screen. An errant thought caught her attention.

  “Oh, I almost forgot to tell you, I got the confirmation for our reservations.”

  “You did?” Gwen squealed. “We got the villas?”

  “Yup, who’s the best wedding planner and greatest friend ever?”

  “Why, you are, of course.” Gwen handed her a cup of tea and plopped into the chair beside her, even though she couldn’t sit still. “Will you click on the link for me?”

  “Again?”

  “Please?”

  “It’s perfect for you.”

  The vivid photo popped up on the monitor, and they both studied the screen.

  “Our reservations are in the VIP section.” Cindy traced the aerial map of the resort. “It’s quaint and authentic—perfect for a small wedding.”

  “It’s amazing.”

  “Nestled in the mountains, and right in the middle of the Beitou Hot Springs. I can’t wait to get into the water.”

  “Thank you so much for arranging everything. It’s going to be wonderful.” Gwen beamed.

  ***

  Madame Eve,

  I need your help again. You saved my life not too long ago. Now I need to move forward. I know, with my legacy, I can’t date just any woman. I need another one-night stand, where my special circumstances won’t interfere. I have completed the required information and look forward to your reply.

  My sincere gratitude,

  Yong Li.

  Still not confident with his words, he stared at the screen, sipping at his third cup of coffee.

  “Are you okay, little brother?” Tatsu squeezed his shoulder and pulled a chair up beside him.

  “I need to be.” He pressed the send button.

  “I have a good feeling about this for you.”

  “Don’t worry about me. We have two weeks before the big day. What else needs to be done? This is about you now.”

  “We need to arrange a pick-up for Grandfather at the airport the day before the ceremony,” Tatsu said.

  “It will be good to see him again.”

  “I miss him, too.”

  “So, the outfits, the caterer, the hotel…?”

  Tatsu’s face lit up. “That’s the advantage of a destination wedding, an all-inclusive package. And our wedding planner looked after the other details.�
�

  “Cindy did a great job, even though she struggled with the traditional menu. She said if it isn’t cooked, has more than four arms or legs, or jiggles, she won’t touch it. I take it she isn’t a big fan of shark and jellyfish?”

  “Not really of a fan of seafood in general,” he laughed. “But she is incredible.”

  “Yeah, she is.” Yong paused while her image lingered in his mind. “I wish I knew why she’s always so quiet around me, and she won’t even make eye contact. Did I do something wrong?” Gulping back the last of his coffee, he watched his brother.

  “No, I don’t think so. She knows about our night with Gwen. I think it’s awkward for her. Gwen’s been trying to feel her out about you, but isn’t getting anywhere. Maybe she’s not sure how to take us, as a threesome, and now, a twosome and a single.”

  “I get how that would seem strange. I’m grateful no one else knows, well, besides Grandfather.” Yong pulled the ring box out of his jacket and opened it. “I swung by the jeweler’s and picked these up for you, like you asked.”

  “Thanks bro, they turned out perfect.” Tatsu took the smaller titanium circle and held it to the light then slipped it back in the box.

  “The kanji love and dragon symbols were a nice touch.”

  The absolute joy in his eyes. I envy him.

  “Gwen got so excited when she found out about the new Castillo resort in Taiwan.” Tatsu eyed the metal rings again.

  “That’s wild.”

  “We did a virtual tour online. Chinese Imperial architecture, but with all the modern amenities.”

  “It’ll be nice to get away. I can’t remember the last time I went on vacation.”

  “Me either, the honeymoon suite is—” Tatsu’s eyes widened and cheeks flushed. “Sorry, never mind.”