The Unsimple Truth

By J. Rennee LaCour

Jordan has the man that every woman dreams of ---Kevin. He's a handsome marketing executive who loves her deeply and wants to marry her. After three years of living with Kevin, Jordan meets Leslie, a gorgeous New York record label exec, who shares an open marriage with an Italian billionaire. While working together, the two women discover that they have chemistry. Jordan confides in her best friend, Daphne, who doesn't react quite the way that she expected. Will Jordan succumb to her feelings for Leslie or will she marry "Mr. Right"?

• Language: English
• Publisher: IndieReader
• Release date: Dec 5, 2011
• ISBN: 9780983889816

Book preview

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1

Jordan

INTRIGUED.

Jordan had no intention of letting the situation get out of hand, at least, that’s what she wanted to believe. As she and Leslie entered the stunning Hotel Palomar in Washington D.C., Jordan studied the dramatic two-story lobby and the gorgeous artwork. This was one of her favorite hotels, so modern and elegant. On the way up the elevator, she thought about how spontaneous the evening had been; she felt titillated by the possibilities that lie ahead, yet nervous at the same time. She wondered if this was what guys went through, the not knowing part. Male friends told her that women always knew how an evening out was going to end, but it remained a mystery to most men.

Hours earlier, their encounter had begun with a business dinner and several drinks. It was around dessert time, that Leslie shifted her hair aside and said, Let’s go back to the hotel; I’ve got an excellent bottle of brandy.

Together, they got into the limousine where champagne awaited them and sensuous music filled the cozy space. During the ride, Jordan felt her heart beating faster. Her inhibitions seemed to be slowly fading. She could feel the effects of the liquor as erotic thoughts played out in her head. Leslie opened the moon roof, giving them the perfect view of a bright starry night; then she reached up above to change the CD. Jordan studied her sleek, long legs and the way her ultra sheer stockings curved around each one perfectly. Looking at them aroused her. Leslie turned and sat down across from her and stared. Jordan blushed and shifted her eyes away. They landed on the clock causing her to remember the promise she made to be home by eleven. She had another hour and a half. The cool night air felt wonderful and the full moon above oozed with passion. It all felt like a movie scene.

Now, as Jordan walked into the lovely suite, she had to own the increasing attraction that she had felt for Leslie over the past month. Dwelling in denial, she had attributed her fascination with this woman to her smart attire, humorous disposition and savvy intellect. Whatever the case, the one thing Jordan knew was that she was a full-blooded and very active heterosexual. Any energy she sensed between she and Leslie would surely pass, but tonight she felt compelled to go with the flow.

Would you like a drink? Leslie asked graciously, while lighting candles around the room.

That sounds great, Jordan replied rather nervously.

Is brandy okay or do you have a taste for something else tonight? she inquired in a seductive manner.

Brandy’s fine.

Jordan watched her while she reached for the bottle, flipped the glasses over and poured the brandy. When Leslie approached her with the drink, Jordan felt her senses ignite. Ever so faintly, she drew in a hint of Leslie’s intoxicating perfume, which formed a ribbon around her. Leslie leaned down toward Jordan and handed her the glass.

Now that you’re situated, I’m going to change into something a little more comfortable.

Jordan took a deep breath and a hefty sip as she watched Leslie exit towards the bedroom. She wondered if she should get up and leave. As quickly as the thought came, it disappeared. She realized that she was much more intrigued than afraid.

When Leslie reappeared, she wore a sheer, long white gown, which made Jordan’s head whirl. She was a vision of exotic loveliness. At 5’9" barefoot, she had the perfect figure, tanned skin, long black hair and hazel colored eyes. Jordan felt flushed as Leslie sat next to her on the sofa and took a sip of brandy.

Isn’t this Armagnac fabulous? she asked.

Quite, Jordan agreed as she watched Leslie caress her glass perfectly. She was beginning to drift into fantasy when Leslie engaged her in conversation.

So, you mentioned having a boyfriend at dinner. Tell me about this lucky guy.

The thought of Kevin made Jordan look at her watch again. She decided it might be a good idea to phone him.

Speaking of my boyfriend, I need to make a call. Jordan excused herself and went to the balcony. His phone rang four times until voicemail answered. Jordan left a message letting him know that she would be a little late. Her desire for this woman was quickly burying her conscience. With each passing moment, Kevin became more and more of a blur. She returned to the sofa where Leslie awaited her.

Is everything okay? she asked.

All good, Jordan responded.

The next four hours passed like nanoseconds. The women sat there, pouring brandy, laughing and talking about their lives, dreams and passions. Leslie told Jordan how she had quickly ascended the corporate ladder in the music world. She also told the story of meeting her husband at a club in Monaco seven years ago. They had no children, but both of them enjoyed travel, their work and living life to the fullest. Jordan shared how she had become a music video director after college. She also talked about previous boyfriends and how she had finally met Kevin, her Mr. Wonderful.

During the evening, their bodies drew closer and closer as the candlelight flickered between them. It was as though they were magnets drawn together by laughter, conversation, touchy gestures and the need to feel each other’s warmth.

Leslie had a phenomenal way of listening to Jordan’s every word with absolute attentiveness. She remembered each detail and asked specific questions, which made Jordan want to tell her deepest thoughts and feelings. They felt inexplicably safe with each other and had no need for secrets, sharing as though they had known each other in another lifetime. It occurred to Jordan how good it felt to embrace intimacy this way, saying everything, the good, the bad and the downright embarrassing. Leslie calmly sat with Jordan’s truths and her own, offering positive energy in return for every word uttered. Jordan sensed a continuous unspoken message throughout the night. Leslie’s spirit said, I know you, I feel you, it’s safe here with me.

Then, IT happened in a single moment. Jordan watched Leslie move in with the slowest, smoothest motion and just as she breathed in—deeply—Leslie kissed her. She felt Leslie’s mouth gently caress her lips. Jordan closed her eyes because her head began to swirl as she inhaled Leslie’s seductive scent. Her kisses were soft and sweet. She knew exactly what to do with her tongue; it was inviting, not invasive. She teased Jordan with it, making her want more and more. Jordan’s body felt like it was on fire. Sensations spiraled through her, from head to toe, like autumn leaves whirling down from trees during a brisk breeze. The rush was magnificent. Jordan’s heart raced incessantly. This was a new kind of passion…one that she had never felt before.

Jordan moaned when Leslie glided her fingers slowly towards her breast and gently landed with a caress. Her lips followed the lead of her smooth, perfectly manicured nails. She watched as Leslie moved her blouse aside with her cheek, brushing her face from side to side. She could feel the softness of her face and the wisps of her hair slightly touching her nipples. And the kisses, the soft tender kisses. Leslie placed each one distinctly and carefully upward from her breast to her throat and then around the side of her neck. Just as she felt like she would burst from the excitement and anticipation, Leslie suddenly reached up and kissed Jordan’s lips again. This time, she met her lips with fury. Jordan kissed her with intensity and passion, remembering the first time they looked into each other’s eyes and understood something extraordinary existed. Jordan gently bit Leslie’s bottom lip in return for the day she accidentally brushed up against her in the elevator, allowing her nipple to touch Jordan’s arm ever so slightly. She kissed her in return for the nights when Leslie secretly penetrated her thoughts while she made love with Kevin. She kissed her tonight, here and now, like she had never kissed any man before.

That was the first time.

They talked and they kissed and they talked and they kissed a little more, until finally Jordan said, I really need to get home.

Leslie looked into her eyes with such sweetness, I would love for you to stay, she said softly.

I can’t tonight, can we get together tomorrow?

Sure, I’ll call you. Are you okay?

My head’s a little light, but I’m alright.

The driver’s downstairs; he’ll take you home. Do you want me to walk you down?

Of course not—I’m a big girl. Jordan picked up her purse and walked to the door.

Leslie followed closely behind. Well, big girl, may I have a goodnight kiss?

Jordan leaned in to kiss her. The heat of her body felt so enticing. The intensity of the sexual energy made her knees buckle. As Leslie’s lips released hers, Jordan held onto the doorknob. Leslie tapped her buttocks as she exited the hotel room.

Jordan walked down the hallway, rode the elevator, walked through the lobby and fell into the limousine in a daze. The kiss was all too familiar. Something about this encounter reminded her of childhood experiments with sex. She and her best friend, Lori, had played the game of married until they were 12 years old. In seventh grade, Jordan successfully made the switch to guys only and never looked back again. Seventeen years later, she could barely believe that she had just made out with a woman.

It seemed like only seconds later when the driver opened the limousine door and announced she was home. Whew! She knew she must collect herself because Kevin might see the secret in her eyes. She prayed that he was asleep by now. She looked at her watch. It was 2 a.m.

Jordan crept through the living room trying not to knock anything over. She could see a small light coming from the kitchen so she went in that direction. She decided some water and an aspirin might save her from a hellish hangover tomorrow. After medicating herself properly, she made her way to the bedroom. She could see Kevin’s body in the bed, but he didn’t stir.

Kevin? she whispered, Are you up? He gave no reply.

She crept to the master bathroom and closed the door. Hurriedly, she threw off her clothes, brushed her teeth and wiped off her face. Then, she tiptoed to the bed and tried to get in on her side without awakening Kevin. She lied down very carefully; he shifted when she turned her back to him. She could feel Kevin’s eyes looking at her, although he never said a word. Fear filled her stomach as she wondered what he was thinking right now and why he had chosen not to say anything.

The next morning, Jordan awoke to the shrill sound of the telephone ringing. Daphne’s cheerful voice greeted her.

Good Morning, Sleepyhead. Are you planning to join the land of the living any day soon? Where were you last night? I rang your cell phone 20 times. I must have left at least 3 messages at your house and work, she charged.

Good Morning to you, too, Jordan said with a bit of an edge.

Oh, I see we’re in a stinky mood this morning. Maybe we should talk later, she said in her defensive tone.

I’m just getting up, crazy girl. Give me a minute to get my head straight, she replied while glancing at the empty side of the bed next to her.

You see. That’s what I’m talking about. That’s why I’m waking you up. Why would you need to be getting your head straight on this lovely sunshine filled morning? Where was your ass all night long?

She was not going to let up. Jordan could hear it in her voice. Sometimes Daphne acted like she was her man, not her best friend.

I had a dinner meeting and the conversation lingered into the evening—if you must know, Miss Nosy, she answered sharply.

Business meeting with who? The guy from Elektra? she persisted.

No, uh, where are you, at work? Jordan evaded the question with a rushed tone.

Yes, I’m in this P.R. hell hole. These people are so tired. What’s up with you for lunch, can we hook up?

Yeah, where do you want to go?

Let’s meet at my little Thai place on 18th Street. Is 12:30 okay for you?

That’s fine, Jordan replied. As she hung up the phone, her eyes fell on Kevin’s side of the bed again. She listened for a moment, but heard no sounds in the house. He had obviously gone to work much earlier than usual. She decided to try to catch him on his cell phone.

Hello, he answered quickly.

Hi, Hon. I just wanted to say ‘Good Morning.’ You left kinda early.

Yes. I’ve got several meetings this morning. I’m waiting on a guy from one of the major brands right now. The distance in his voice was apparent.

Sorry, I came in a little late, last night—it took a little longer than I thought, she said in her most responsible tone.

He replied, Oh, yeah, I figured you just got hung up. Well babe, I’ve gotta run. I’ll talk to you a little later.

Love you, Jordan said. She couldn’t tell whether or not he heard her last words. Silence filled the air. He had hung up.

She fell back into the bed. There was no need to rush this morning. Today was going to be another late day. As her head sank into the softness of her pillow, her thoughts raced back to the previous evening. What a rush! She had enjoyed every second of it. She realized that she had wished this situation into existence. Leslie was smart, savvy, sexy, sophisticated, wise and sensuous. Jordan had their first kiss on perpetual repeat in her head. She played the moment over and over. It was the most wonderful, tender expression. She felt as though Leslie had entered her body and become one with her. She tried to remember a time when a kiss felt like this with any of her previous lovers, to no avail. In her 29 years, Jordan had experienced some great lovers, but none of them compared to what she felt when Leslie’s lips touched hers. She gently placed her hands down there. A fierce heat rose up her body and burned between her legs. Obviously, a little self-indulgence was necessary. The memory of the previous night combined with the fantasies of what might happen the next time brought her to an intense orgasm. She caught her breath and looked at the clock. An hour had passed. It was time to be about the business of the day.

As Jordan stepped out the shower, the phone rang. Her heart leapt when she heard Leslie’s voice on the other side.

Hi, did I catch you at a bad moment? she asked.

Oh, no. I was just getting out of the shower. What’s going on? Jordan responded with enthusiasm.

The treatment for the music video looks great, I just need you to tighten up a few things. I’m also gonna need a rough storyboard. Can we get together today so I can run my ideas by you? I want to present this to Leon when I return to New York tomorrow.

Sure, I can rearrange some things. When were you thinking?

It’s 10:30 now. If you could meet me at Twister’s at Union Station in 45 minutes that would be great. I’m sorry about the rush. I just want to be sure we’ve crossed all our ‘T’s—if you know what I mean.

No problem. I’ll see you in a few.

Jordan hung up the phone and proceeded to scurry around the condo. She grabbed her navy blue conservative, but super short skirt suit and headed for the bathroom. She would have to call Daphne on the way to the restaurant.

2

Evan

CRUISING.

It was a particularly luscious pastime, especially on a spring night in a city like New Orleans. The slightly humid air and breeze from the Mississippi river made it feel like the Caribbean. A starlit sky and full moon encouraged young lovers to pursue their desires, while in the distance trumpets played Jazz at outdoor cafes. Promiscuous energy abounded and those in search, set out for the kill.

Evan peered at the blue neon sign before entering the club. The bouncer at Club Polar knew him and quickly detached the black rope allowing him to enter. Evan was early tonight. It was only 11 o’clock. Everyone knew the cuties didn’t arrive until near midnight, but tonight Evan wanted a head start on the action. He figured a couple of tequila shots would set him right before the crowd overtook the club.

Evan perused the bar area to see if there were any early birds worth his while. There weren’t.

What can I getcha? asked the bartender.

A shot of tequila.

Running a tab?

Sure. That’s fine.

The bartender smiled and mumbled under his breath, You’re fine.

Evan prided himself on keeping his body in tip-top shape. He had the kind of anatomy that Michelangelo would have sculpted with finite detail. He stood 6 feet 4 inches tall and had beautiful mocha brown skin. His cheekbones were chiseled to perfection and exceptionally long lashes accented his wide brown eyes. He kept his hair cut close, near bald. His latest addition was a slightly faded goatee around his entire mouth. He thought it accented his full, spherical lips. Tonight, Evan had dressed in a rugged manner. Loose fitting jeans, a v-neck sweater and a pair of rugged black leather boots complemented his figure well.

Oftentimes, Evan found himself comparing other men’s structures against his own. Tonight, he watched as the bartender turned to grab the bottle of tequila. He couldn’t help but notice his excellent muscular physique under that black T. This guy had spent lots of time at the gym.

Where do you work out? Evan asked.

New Orleans Fitness—and you? He responded.

The Y.

Everyday?

Six days a week. Sunday is my day of rest.

How biblical, he said snidely.

They laughed in unison. Evan looked at his watch as the bartender left him to wait on another customer. Midnight was approaching. Soon the club would be full of wandering eyes and sexy possibilities.

Two hours earlier, Evan had dined with his girlfriend, Sandra, before dropping her off at the airport. He felt slightly guilty as he kissed her goodbye because he knew his plans for later.

Take good care of my baby, he said to her as he handed her the briefcase.

I will honey. I’ll call you when I get in tonight.

Get some sleep on that redeye, he added as he hugged her tight.

She lit up with a huge smile.

I love you, Evan.

Me, too baby.

He handed her luggage to the skycap and jumped in his car just as the policeman drew near.

I’m outta here, he told the cop.

He waved goodbye to Sandra, hurriedly putting the pedal to the metal. As he merged onto the highway, he could feel the anticipation building within his body. He was on his way to the club!

Now at the club, Evan peered at his watch and decided it was time for a second drink. Midnight had rolled around in no time. He noticed the pace of the club picking up rapidly. The men strutted in like panthers; they were all different shapes and sizes. He could feel the adrenaline flowing in his veins. So many to choose from—who would be the lucky fella tonight?

The club scene for men was very different from the straight sets that Evan had attended most of his life. Here, people danced with ferocity, pumping wild gyrations with their pelvises. House music blended with hard-hitting rap songs causing the dance floor to vibrate with bass. Shirts were discarded, pants were tight, and plenty of grinding was customary. It was such a turn on. Propositions were direct and immediate. Very little time was given to the folly of flirtation. You honed in on a guy and if he gave you serious eye contact—it was on. The bathroom was moments away for quickies; however, some men took their prey home for the night. The visitor understood that he would leave shortly after sex.

Evan never danced much. That was not his mission.

He came in search of pure roughneck, well endowed, street guys. As he searched the room for his man du jour, his eyes fell upon a dark chocolate brother who was clearly a homo-thug. His baldhead and skin shone brightly under the lights as he danced. He smiled beautifully as he held on to his baggy jeans, turning, stomping and throwing his head back. Evan felt turned on by his fierce, Alpha dog moves. So he waited. Finally, the man stopped after several songs and made his way to the bar. He was sweating profusely as he reached for napkins over Evan’s shoulder.

I saw you dancing, said Evan while helping him collect more napkins.

Yeah. That’s why I come here.

Really. Are there any other activities you come here for? Evan quizzed.

The guy smiled.

How about a drink? Evan offered.

A beer would be great.

Evan ordered a beer for the fine dancer. After the dancer had taken a few gulps, Evan knew time wouldn’t wait much longer.

Wanna get out of here and cool off? he asked.

The man responded rapidly, Sure. My place is around the corner.

They exited the building and a short walk later they entered the guy’s building.

This is it. By the way, what’s your name? he asked Evan.

Mark. Evan never told tricks his real name. And yours?

Todd, he replied.

They had hardly entered the door when their bodies pressed against each other. They kissed each other’s necks and shoulders and grinded together. Evan could feel Todd’s rock-solid hardness pressing against his stomach. It felt huge. Evan smiled, hoping he hadn’t bitten off more than he could chew. As though he could read Evan’s thoughts, Todd began to slowly descend towards the floor. Evan peered downward seeing Todd’s full lips approaching his body. They were hot when they met Evan’s throbbing manhood. Todd held it firmly, squeezing it in exactly the right place and then began to suck intensely. Evan writhed with pleasure, commending himself on an excellent score this evening. Later, Evan took his usual top position and led them through an intense sexual encounter until both men fell asleep from exhaustion.

When Evan awoke, he felt disoriented. He could hear something buzzing somewhere on the other side of the room. He sat up and looked around several times until he saw the time. It was three o’clock in the morning. As his eyes adjusted to the dark, he could see the muscular man lying next to him. Todd was lying on his stomach—bare. Evan swiftly got out of bed and felt his way to his underwear, pants, shirt and shoes. He checked his cell phone caller ID. It revealed two unanswered calls from Sandra. Shit! he thought aloud, that’s what he heard buzzing; his phone was on vibrate. He quietly scrambled to put on his clothes and, with a flash, scurried out of the door. A short walk later, he could see the club’s activity was in full force. A line of men stood waiting outside, trying to get in before dawn. Evan hurriedly hopped in his car and left the scene. Driving home, he decided to wait and call Sandra from his landline. He concocted what he would say to her. Lies. Lies that he would have to remember forever. He had learned that women had amazing memories.

Upon entering the apartment, Evan threw his jacket on the chair and made a beeline toward the phone. He dialed her cell phone.

Hello, Sandra said in a very sleepy tone.

Hi baby, Evan said in a low sexy voice. Sounds like I woke you up.

I must have just dozed off watching TV. What time is it? she asked.

It’s about 4 my time. Two your time. Evan felt his heart beating faster.

Oh. I called you earlier. I kept getting voicemail.

I went for a couple of drinks after I dropped you off. I was sitting at the bar and didn’t want my phone ringing all loud and ghetto—so I put it on vibrate. I saw an old buddy from high school. He treated me to a couple more drinks. My head was busted. So I came home and must have passed out. I just woke up and saw you had called. I rang your cell, first. He wondered if he was talking too fast. Did you have a good flight? he asked, hoping to change the subject pronto.

Yes. I watched a movie and had a glass of wine and it was over. The hotel is beautiful. I could get real used to this kind of living.

I’m glad, baby. You deserve it. What time does the seminar start tomorrow?

At 8am, but everything’s here in the hotel, she replied.

Good. Well, you better get some rest. I’ll check in with you tomorrow.

Okay. You alright honey? she asked.

Oh, yeah. I’m cool. Just missing you.

I miss you, too—baby, she gushed.

Get some sleep, goodnight.

Good night.

Evan hung up the phone feeling like a culprit. He hated the lying and deception, but he didn’t know how else to deal with his situation. He enjoyed having a woman in his life. Women were nurturing, giving, attentive, and natural caretakers. He appreciated the companionship, the holidays with family, and having a woman on his arm when he attended events; Sandra was one of the best. She had won Evan’s heart the first time he watched her interact with his little boy, Stevie.

After a few months of dating, he knew that he loved Sandra as much as he could ever love any woman.

3

Leslie

EXPLORING.

The hostess led Jordan to a quaint corner table in the fine restaurant. There, the first visual she saw was Leslie’s long slender leg and her black leather halter shoe protruding gently from the table. She could hear Leslie talking on her cell phone.

I’ll be home tonight, honey. The 8pm shuttle—that puts me back in the city at about 10:30. Aldolfo said he’ll have a car at the airport for me. Okay Sweetie, gotta go, I’m in a meeting.

As Leslie hung up the phone, she turned to Jordan.

Sorry about that, just checking in with the husband. She tipped her glasses down and gave Jordan a perfunctory male ‘once over’.

Hmmm, you look great, she remarked.

Jordan felt her face flush. Leslie was absolutely stunning. Her long, black hair was swept up, with the tail of her mane hanging over her hair comb. She had on diamond studs that sparkled and her dress showed just enough cleavage to make Jordan feel awkward about staring. Leslie’s intense energy and attention sent Jordan into an abrupt state of shyness, uncertainty and excitement, leaving her speechless. She sat down in an effort to maintain her composure.

Not a woman of many words, today? Leslie taunted her.

Just need a moment to settle, it was so hectic getting over here. Jordan hoped feigning a rushed state would throw Leslie off a bit.

Hmmm. Leslie replied. Well, maybe a drink will help calm all that down. She called out to the waiter who was headed toward the table.

Excuse me. My guest is here.

After the waiter took Jordan’s order, Leslie reached for the proposal and proceeded with the business at hand, revising the treatment and creating a storyboard.

Jordan watched her lips move, barely comprehending anything Leslie was saying. Her ears were trying to listen as her thoughts traveled back to last night’s kisses. She followed along—calling her attention back to the present over and over again. Jordan wondered how Leslie could remain so focused. She didn’t seem to have