Shreds of Silk

By Eleanor David

Having denied herself for five long years Stephany finally surrenders to Jake giving herself to him with both body and soul, sharing her intermit past with him. Allowing herself to be drawn into his world, Stephany struggles to maintain her identity as she becomes embroiled in the mystery of Jake Sinclair amazed at every turn by the enormity of his wealth. As the relationship develops Jake begins to open up about his own troublesome past, but is he telling her everything?

Notoriety exposes their relationship triggering cryptic warnings that cast further doubts on her decision to venture into the unfamiliar world of Jake Sinclair. Questioning her right to happiness, Stephany struggles to understand the strange happenings that cloud her judgement as she begins to doubt every decision she has made. Why would someone be so determined to ruin her happiness and jeopardise her new found love for Jake? As the new lovers lives mingle further Stephany is ever more aware of the void in Jake’s past that is still unknown to her.

Jake’s incessant need to protect her and keep her safe leaves Stephany confused and later confirms her suspicions that it is indeed Jake’s mysterious past that is the key to all the weird activity that threatens to end her happiness. Consumed by the man to whom she has given her heart, Stephany doubts she will be able to return from the depths of darkness destined to engulf her when Jake’s darkest secret is revealed to her. Will she discover who is behind the threats or will they achieve their goal of shattering the happiness she has found with Jake and manage to tear their love to shreds?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Eleanor David
• Release date: May 21, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311434968

Eleanor David

When her husband suggested that she write her own book instead of spending all her spare time reading other peoples books, she brushed the notion to one side and filed it under ‘ridiculous idea’. However, with the seed firmly planted in her mind she pondered for days over whether she could actually write a book of her own. In the following weeks, with a hectic home life (two sons, a husband, two dogs and a cat!), a busy and demanding full time job in a high street bank, her own horse and smallholding with more dogs, another cat and a few chickens thrown in for good luck, an idea began to form in her mind. A few months later, after spending countless hours whilst travelling to and from her full time job, between cooking meals for the family and running a busy household and during her down time at her smallholding tending to her horses, she came up with an idea for a story. With nothing to lose and the support of her husband she began to write, something that she had never done before. Six months later, Christmas 2013 her first book was finished. The first part of the Silk Trilogy had been written. Unsure of where this new found talent and passion for writing had come from she decided to create a pseudonym in memory of her grandmother, who played a huge part in her upbringing and to recognise the inspiration and support of her husband, her childhood sweetheart of thirty years. Eleanor David was created and in January this year the Silk Trilogy was completed. Part 1 published this week through KDP with Parts 2 and 3 to follow very shortly.

Book preview

Beads of sweat gathered across my brow as I continued to pound myself into her. I had a firm grip on her blonde locks as I pulled back on her head hard, her soft pale ass bouncing back to meet my thrusts.

Ah Jake! she cried.

I never murmured a word as I listened to her cries as she pummelled into orgasm. That was it. As soon as I felt her sweet fanny tighten around my cock I found my release. Unable to hold back any more I growled as my cum filled the condom then collapsing onto the bed beside her I pulled out.

No matter how many times I fucked these woman there was simply no feeling. Nothing. No hugs and kisses or warm embraces afterward. I pulled the condom off and tied it before tossing it into the waist bin at the side of the bed.

Get up and go clean yourself up I growled before adding,

And then get dressed!

Lydia rolled over onto her side to face me, her curly blonde hair a tangled mess from where I had been pulling at it. It wasn’t her fault really, she was actually quite cute in her own artificial way. her heavily made up face looking pleadingly at me.

Can’t I just stay the night with you? she begged as she ran her hands up my thighs. I shivered at the touch and sighed deeply. Fuck! Why did they always want more?

Look I told you I don’t do sleepovers and I don’t do relationships. Now I said get the fuck out of my bed or it will be the last time you find yourself in it. There are plenty more where you came from.

As I dragged myself up and pulled on my clothes my phone rang. It was Pete. Apparently some wanker was trying to count cards on one of the tables downstairs and I was needed in the observation room. I threw two crisp fifties onto the bed and told Lydia to go play for a while. It was getting late already and I was pissed that I now had to go to work.

While I was staring at the screens as I decided what course of action to take, listening as Pete updated me on the goings on of the evening my eyes drifted upwards to the next table. It must have been the movement that drew my attention because what I was looking at was simply angelic innocence. I was suddenly glued to the screen as the most gorgeous brunette stood from the table and walked towards a leggy blonde, then I just watched as the two women made their way out of the gaming hall.

Something stirred deep down and I just knew right then that I had to meet this woman.

I’ll deal with this one Pete. I’m going to the floor anyway. Give me a handheld and keep in touch. I ordered as I placed an earpiece into my right ear.

I flicked on the screen of the handheld security device which instantly split into windows, playing different shots from various cameras around the casino, restaurant and club below. The minute I set foot on the floor eyes were on me and as if she had some kind of homing device attached to me Lydia was by my side. My stomach curdled at the thought of being associated with the likes of her. She was simply a fuck, as were all the others. Rarely did I actually do any of the wining and dining shit. Anyway she was with me know and I didn’t want to create a scene here in front of everyone. It was Saturday night after all and the place was packed. I quickly and discretely dealt with the guy who had been counting and then had to have serious words with Phil fucking Spencer. God that man was a dick. I only tolerated his coming here because of his father. Mike was a good guy and I’d put a lot of business his way but I was fucked if I was going to let his letch of a son treat my staff the way he was tonight. He was pissed and he was losing money fast.

Finally I was able to step into the shadows for a moment as I scanned my hand held, watching as the screen flicked from camera to camera. I’m not sure why I was even bothered but I had a niggle, and I wanted to find that hot brunette that I’d caught a glimpse of. I’d managed to park Lydia at the bar so I quickly scanned each screen knowing that she would be back at my side like a fucking lost puppy as soon as she could. Just as I was about to give up, the screen flashed onto the camera that was positioned directly in front of the dance floor from the entrance to the club downstairs. That was when I saw her. I couldn’t quite make out what was happening at first as I stood and stared at the screen. It seemed like a space had been created on the dance floor like when people gathered round to watch a fight. Something I knew plenty about, and there in the middle was the two women I had watched leave the casino earlier dancing like they were in a fucking movie. Fuck! My dick was twitching just watching as the brunette waggled her perfect ass and twisted her body in time to the beat of the music. I flicked another switch to get some volume. I needed to know what she was dancing to. Fuck. I needed to know her name.

I stepped out from the shadows and started towards the stairs to the club when out of nowhere Lydia appeared at my side, a huge grin spread across her face.

Oo goody. Are we going to dance? she squealed.

What? Dance? What with you? I don’t fucking think so. And with that I quickened my stride and made my way down the stairs, Lydia’s high heels clicking against the marble as she trotted along behind.

I have no idea what happened next as three of my bouncers flew past me at high speed. I’d turned off my handheld so I was going in blind. My heart picked up a beat as I followed them down taking two stairs at a time. Tommy, one of the bouncers stopped me just as I was about to enter the club and pulled me to one side, a deep frown burrowing across his brow.

Hey boss, we’ve got this.

Who is it? I demanded as I peered over his huge shoulders.

It’s that Spencer guy. Looks like he got a bit too keen with the brunette that was dancing with the blonde…..

Now he had my attention and as his words trailed off I caught a glimpse of her. She looked angry and as sexy as hell as her tall blonde friend led her towards the bar.

Is she ok? I asked as the weirdest feeling past through me.

I had a sudden urge to bury my fists into Phil’s face and as I clenched my fists fury surged through my body. Tommy grabbed hold of me a little harder as he sensed I was about to explode.

Jake, leave it! He’s not worth it. Besides, looks like the brunette did a good enough job on him anyway. She had him on the deck in no time. Quite the little fighter that one I can tell you.

I didn’t like the look in his eye as he spoke those words and I could see that he, and every other red blooded man in the place wanted her. Looking down at where his hand lay over my tense bicep I turned my eyes to him,

It’s cool Tommy. Just get that piece of shit out of my fucking casino now before I break his puny ass neck!

Sure thing boss.

And with that I took a breath and made my way over to the bar where the two women now stood. They hadn’t heard or noticed me walking up so I reached out and took hold of the brunette just above the elbow so I could get her attention and check she was ok. My heart was racing as my hand touched her soft flesh, why? I’m not sure, but it was. Then before I had a chance to speak she span around so fast you could have missed it in a blink. Ice cold liquid hit me square in the face as a sudden urge to grab my assailant overcame me. No one fucking threw a drink in my face and got away with it, especially a fucking woman. But then as her eyes fell on mine it was like I couldn’t breathe. Her eyes, so dark and dangerous, just staring back at me. Shit it felt like she was looking right into my soul. I flicked my tongue out across my lower lip and couldn’t help the smirk as I realised it was water. Fucking water. She wasn’t even drinking. She was sober. Before my brain could tell my mouth to move and speak to this goddess that stood before me Lydia jumped in.

Jake! Are you just going to stand there and let that piece of trash throw her drink all over you?

What? I threw her a look and then spat out the words to shut her up. Still rooted to the spot I just continued to stare into those dark brown pots of chocolate as she retorted to Lydia’s little outburst. She was smart too. Fuck she was hot. And defiant and confident and beautiful and feisty and Christ my dick was throbbing. Then as cool as a cucumber she just walked right past me and out of the club leaving me standing there with a wet face. Fuck! Who the hell was this girl? Lydia was still standing open mouthed looking at me, shit, I really needed to get rid of her and for the first time in I don’t know how long I felt like I actually wanted something. No not something, someone. I turned on my heel and headed straight out of the club and back up to my suite above, leaving Lydia behind with a warning that she was not to bother me again. Ever!

As I made my way through the back corridors to my private elevator I radioed Ray and told him to go up front and give the two women a lift home. No arguments. I couldn’t help but chuckle as I said that last part as something told me that there would inevitably be an argument. Yes that brunette did not look like someone who liked to be told what to do. My dick twitched again at the thought.

Ray had radioed me to let me know they had already gotten into a cab so I had him follow them and wait. It didn’t surprise me in the slightest when he called me back in the wee hours to tell me she had refused to let him drive her home but I was somehow surprised that they’d been in Ally Cats. It was a dancing club and she didn’t seem the type somehow. They had lots of dancers there and although I’d never been I’d heard a lot about the place and all about the private sessions you get too. Still that was venture I would soon be enlightened on as I was in the throes of checking out the business. I had plans to buy the place and turn it into a much more upmarket and exclusive club. It had a massive warehouse right next door too which would soon be vacant and I wanted that too.

I poured myself a scotch, went to my desk and flicked on the computer. I needed some more details so I searched my data base till I found her.

Well I’ll be dammed. I murmured as I pulled my hands through my hair. She was Phil Spencer’s guest. Bingo. I had her address and her mobile number. With a smug grin I closed off the computer and hit the sack, the image of Miss Stephany Silk firmly imprinted in my memory.

I awoke with a start. Sweat pouring from me, my chest heaving as I sighed with relief at my surroundings. Shit. Would that nightmare ever go? Would I ever rid myself of the sound of the horses as they screamed in fright from the flames that licked their mighty bodies? The smell off the burning flesh. That was something I was sure I would never forget, that and the fact that I was never able to reach my mother as she called out my name before she too perished in the fire that had destroyed my life.

After taking a shower I grabbed my phone and sent a cheeky txt to Miss Silk, I didn’t have long before my flight left so quickly throwing on some clothes I picked up the overnight bag that Vivienne had packed for me and then checked in with Ray. She didn’t respond straight away and for a moment I wondered whether she would even be up. After all, Ray had said she was pretty loaded when she left the club. It was just as I was climbing into the car with Ray when the reply came through and a weird feeling settled in my stomach as I grinned while I read the response. A chuckle escaped as I tapped in my reply then dropped my phone onto the well in the dash.

She is quite a looker, and spirited too. Ray said as he pulled into the airport.

You know that one isn’t going to just fall at your feet Jake. She’ll steal your heart that one.

Looking back at him as he peered over his shades, I grabbed my bag from the back and picked up my phone. She hadn’t replied to my last txt.

Yeah man, whatever. We’ll see. See you Tuesday. My flight lands at six. Don’t be late, I’ll be going straight to the gym.

Sure thing Jake. See you Tuesday.

I stood on the tarmac watching as Ray drove off, his words of warning drifting around my head. Why did I get the feeling he was right? Perhaps because Ray was always right, after all he’d been right all those years ago when I’d found myself hauled up in the juvenile detention centre. His loyalty had been endearing back then and he was still as loyal to me now. He was somewhat a father figure even if I had bailed him out a few times with my money. Hell he deserved it, after all if it hadn’t been for him and Vivienne god knows what would have become of me.

As always Ray was waiting as I strolled across to where he’d parked. The sun was shining but it wasn’t nearly as warm as it had been in France the last two days. I climbed inside feeling somewhat tense, the trip was troubling me. I mean why would someone be trying to hack into my security systems? It was only a god dam casino not fucking fort nocks. Now I was back in the UK I couldn’t help but think about the brunette either. Fuck! Let’s face it, I’d not been able to think of anyone else for the last two days. I’d even turned down the company of two beautiful woman while I’d been away. Shit. What the fuck was wrong with me? As I sat lost in a maze of my own thoughts Ray updated me on the goings on while I’d been away. He confirmed that the gig on Sunday at Alley Cats had been arranged and that words had been had with Mike, Phil Spencer’s father about his little performance last Saturday. He also told me that the annual ball for the MET was scheduled for a week Saturday at the Manor.

Tell them I’ll be going. I said matter of factly.

That got his attention, Christ he nearly crashed the car.

Really? he questioned as another car sounded on its horn.

Yes really, and I’ll be bringing Miss Silk too so make sure there is a ticket kept by for her.

Ray laughed,

Good luck with that one Jake. Don’t you think it would be a good idea to ask her first? I mean you two don’t even know each other.

I sighed as I pulled my hand through my hair,

Leave that to me. Just get the ticket. She’ll be there. God I hoped she would be there.

I needed her to be there. Fuck knows why but I just did.

I walked into Diamonds and as usual the women stared as I made my way to the weight room. Normally I’d increase my swagger and flirt a little so I could pick out a fuck for later but tonight I wasn’t interested in the phoney women that came to the gym. All hair and makeup before a workout. I mean what the fuck was that all about? Tonight I needed to get sweaty and I needed to spar. Pounding the treadmill and crunching the weights back at my suite over the casino was just not going to cut it. Christ I hadn’t felt this coiled up since my fighting days. Good job Gavin was working tonight, at least he could give me a good run for my money without pissing his pants. He too was good back in the day and the pair off us made a killing when we were cage fighters. It was quite bizarre when we’d met up again years later one night when he’d walked into one of my casinos. I hiked up the volume on the music system that played in this part of the gym and high fived a few of the guys as I made my way to Gavin at the ring.

Nice to see ya Jake.

Yeah, you to man. I replied as we shared a man hug bumping knuckles inside the ring.

I threw my sweater to the side of the ring and slipped into my sparring gear before spending the next half an hour or so fighting with Gavin like my life depended on it. I don’t know what was wrong with me. I had all this pent up anger and frustration that had built up inside and I desperately needed to let it all out. After we called time out Gavin got the blocks and I began punching and kicking all the time imagining it was Phil’s face that my feet and fists were landing on. Then I saw her. It was the brunette from the casino. Our eyes locked as she caught my stare. God she looked even more delicious than she had on Saturday. My muscles flexed involuntarily as she sauntered past the ring and stopped at one of the weight platforms. I knew she couldn’t see my face coz it was covered by the head gear I was wearing but something flashed in those dark eyes of hers that told me she felt it too. She must have. It was like an electric charge had shot through my body and sent tingles running right through me. Dam she was good looking and her body, wow, it was simply calling out to me. Christ I needed to feel her, touch her. God I wanted to bury myself inside her so fucking badly. I watched on as she began to squat. That was it, I was done as I just stood and watched. A few of the other guys were watching too and I wanted to bang each and every one of them for feasting their hungry eyes on her.

Gavin walked over to my side as I began to remove my spar gear.

That’s Stephany, she’s new here. She packs quite a punch. He said as a soft smile spread across his face before adding,

And her blonde friend is hot too.

What do you mean packs a punch? She fights?

Ah ha, kick boxing to be exact and she’s good. Very good. She knows how to throw those weights about too. Yep sir, that’s one strong little lady over there. Gavin said with a nod of his head.

Really. For the record, none of the guys are to touch her. You hear me. She’s off limits. I barked as I jumped out of the ring.

She was shocked when she realised who I was, I know I could tell. That amused me a little and I gave her some stick about wearing a belt when she squatted. She came back all defensive, said I was obsessed with her safety. I was! Something strange was happening to me and I felt this incessant need to protect her and look after her. God knows why but I did and couldn’t get my head around it. Christ before I knew it I was saying sorry and I practically begged her to meet me for a drink in the bar when she’d finished. No wonder Gavin was looking at me like I’d sprouted another head. Hell I couldn’t believe the words were coming out of my mouth either. I mean when did I ever apologise to anyone? Least of all a woman, and let’s face it I never usually had to ask a woman twice to drink with me. Man, usually they were falling at my feet. But with her it was different. She was a challenge, like forbidden fruit and I just had to have her, so when she agreed I felt like fucking cartwheeling out of the room but instead I just walked steadily out the door leaving her watching me as I went. Yeah, I knew she was watching, I could feel her eyes on me. I liked that a lot and was smiling all the way to the shower.

I’d not been in the bar long, it had just turned nine. Nerves had begun to settle as I watched the clock waiting for her. Shit I felt like a teenager waiting behind the bike sheds for the school prom queen. I heard the door open and turned coolly towards it only to find my heart sinking as Carolyn walked in.

Jake, darling. There you are. Michelle told me you were in tonight. Tell me where have you been? You never returned my calls. She purred as she approached me.

Shit. I’d had a dozen missed calls from her and an equal amount of pleading voice mails. She was one of the few women that I bedded on a fairly regular basis. She was a good fuck and man she gave a wicked blow job, but since I’d clapped eyes on Stephany it was only her mouth I wanted to feel around my cock and suddenly Carolyn was nothing more than a cheap lay. I grimaced and pulled back as she attempted to wrap her arm around my neck. I looked around nervously. Dam the last thing I needed was Stephany to walk in and see her draped all over me.

I’ve been busy Carolyn, what can I say. You don’t monopolise me you know. No woman does! I through her an angry look and checked the clock on the wall again.

She must have noticed I was on edge.

You look frustrated Jake. Are you waiting for someone? she asked, then followed with

I can take all of that frustration away for you if you like. Just say the word. Anytime, anyplace. You know that don’t you Jakey.

God I hated it when she called me that and just then as she leaned in to kiss me I spotted her stood outside the glass doors. I’d only just managed to avert the kiss and I know she saw us.

I said I’m busy and yes I’m waiting for someone so please leave. Now. I barked, and with that she also turned and caught sight of Stephany. Thankfully she never said another word before she turned and left, stalking her eyes all over Stephanie as she walked towards me.

God she looked amazing. She was wearing tight jeans that hugged every curve and a little t shirt that showed just enough of her abs to send my heart racing. Her hair was tied up again and I couldn’t help but wonder what she would look like with all those dark curls hanging around her face. Even without makeup she looked gorgeous. That made me smile, the fact that she didn’t seem to feel the need to dress up for anyone. I teased her about being late and cautioned her not to throw her drink at me this time, but when she said she wanted whiskey I nearly fell over. I mean how many women drink whiskey? None that I’d ever come across, champagne or wine or some weird cocktail was what the women normally drank. Jees she was like a breath of fresh air and just simply didn’t cease to amaze me. I ordered a Perroni and told Jay to close off the terrace. I didn’t want any disturbances, not know that I had her here with me. She nearly choked when he called me Boss, Christ she really didn’t have a clue who I was or how wealthy I was either.

Once we got outside I could tell she was nervous and then I couldn’t believe what she did next. She pulled tobacco from her bag and rolled a fucking cigarette. I mean just rolled it, right there in front of me, but she did it with such expertise I could tell she’d smoked more than just tobacco in her time. God she just intrigued me more and more with every minute I spent with her. Desperate to try to extract information about her I joked around and made small talk, but she wasn’t giving much away. Why was she so cagey I wondered? Her dark eyes were filled with sorrow and I very much wanted to find out why. I quizzed her about Phil and once again she got all defensive but I’m afraid I had to put her straight on that one and was relieved when she said he’d been and apologised. Shit, she was even worried about her job. That man was a complete dick and all I could see was more hurt in her eyes, like she thought she were worthless or something.

I knew I was pushing my luck when I told her she was going to be mine and I wasn’t surprised when she went off on one at me about how nobody owned her, but that just gave me an excuse to hold her face in my hand and beg her again to stay for another drink. Yes I just said beg her again, and it worked too coz she agreed. Fuck I wanted to kiss her so much when she looked at me like that with those big puppy dog brown eyes. Christ I had to quell these emotions, Jesus, I mean, what the fuck was wrong with me?

Probing a little more over our second drink I admitted to getting her number from the casino guest list and that I’d had Ray follow her to the club. It seems the blonde worked at the place but something told me she wasn’t telling me everything and as if sensing I was getting too close she seemed to panic and wanted to cut loose telling me she needed to leave. At least I convinced her to let Ray drop her off, but then when we got in the lift I just couldn’t fucking stop myself and before knew it my lips were on hers. God she tasted good. Fuck, my dick was so hard it hurt. The way she kissed me back, how she allowed my tongue to explore her mouth was just so fucking hot I felt like I could come from just kissing her, so needless to say that was when I knew. I just knew I had to have her.

Feeling brave I asked her to come to dinner with me but she said she was busy Thursday. For a split second I thought she was going to blow me out but when she agreed to Saturday I felt like a school kid all over again arranging a first date.

Chuckling to myself as I watched Ray drive off I made my way up to my office I had at the gym and once inside I sent a txt desperate to prolong the connection. We had a banter going for a while but when she didn’t answer my txt to tell me she was home safe I went into some kind of panic and sent Ray up to the apartment to check. Needless to say she was less than happy.

I arranged for a very expensive malt whiskey and a stem of forget me knots to be sent over first thing next morning. My mother used to love forget me knots and as a boy she used to tell me that their meaning was cannot be without you. She gave them to me often telling me this as she would hold me tight. That was how I felt about Stephany. I felt like I could not be without her.

Wednesday morning came and went in a blur of emails and conference calls with security. I was beginning to regret starting this venture in France. Hell it had been nothing but trouble since the off, but well it was going to make me shit loads of money and just a couple of months would see me with my first casino in Europe. After I’d pounded a few miles on the treadmill I grabbed some lunch then just as if we were in some kind of relationship I sent a txt to Stephany. I needed to know what she was doing, where she was and the fact that I didn’t know these things was killing me. So when she said she was sunbathing I practically broke out in a sweat at the thought of anybody but me feasting their eyes on her delicious body.

It was about nine o’clock that evening when I spotted Gavin and the blonde who had been with Stephany last Saturday sitting in the restaurant in my casino as I was making my way through to sort out a problem with one of the chefs. I stopped by their table to say hi and couldn’t help but over hear the phone call that Gavin’s date was having.

I’m sorry, but did I just hear you say that Stephany was in the hospital? I asked, my voice laced with concern.

Hum yeah, Steph and a friend had an accident while they were out riding today. She’s ok but looks like her friends in a pretty bad way.

Did she just say riding accident?

Riding? You mean as in horses? the words just fell out.

Christ I must have sounded like some kind of idiot I mean what other kind of riding was there?

In no time at all I’d made her give me the name of the hospital that she was in and without a second thought I called Ray and told him to meet me up front.

I had to take a very deep breath before I could get my body to enter the hospital. God I hated these places. They smelt of death and reminded me too much of the losses I’d suffered during my younger years. Years when I should have been living life, not mourning death. My youth ripped from me by social workers and phony carers desperate to tame the tormented child within, trying to control my every thought and action. All eyes fell upon me as I stalked my way inside. My breathing was already unsteady as I demanded that the fat nurse at the desk tell me where I could find her. After a brief exchange of some harsh words she disappeared while I waited impatiently for her to return.

My heart sank then nearly jumped right out of my chest as I saw her come through the double doors ahead as she followed the nurse along the corridor towards me. Dam was there any way to find this woman without my dick twitching. Fuck she looked as hot as ever in her cream jodhpurs and riding boots and wow, that little vest she wore was hugging her tits in a way that just had me wanting to grab hold of them and squeeze. Pushing those thoughts to one side I instantly took her in my arms and held her as I felt her body mould into mine. She too was tense and something told me that it wasn’t just because of the accident. She didn’t like hospitals either, I could tell. After meeting her friend and being selfishly grateful that it was not Stephany lay in that hospital bed all bruised and battered I thanked the woman for bringing her in and took her home where Gavin and her friend were waiting.

We sat for a while in her apartment just chatting. Lizzy, Steph’s friend seemed like a really nice girl and I was pleased that Gavin had hooked up with her. If nothing else it meant that I might get a bit of an insight to the mystery that surrounded the sexy brunette that sat beside me on the small two seater leather couch in their cosy living room. I could tell she was tired and once more that strange feeling I had of wanting to protect her had me calling time and insisting that I ran her a bath. Yep that was me offering to run a bath for a woman, not something I can say I have ever done before tonight. The smell of her bath salts filled the small bathroom as I leant over to test the temperature of the water and when she appeared in the doorway it was all I could do to stop myself from peeling both our clothes off and climbing right in with her. Undoubtedly I’d be jerking off later. That was something I’d been doing a lot of just lately and something told me I’d be doing it plenty more until she was mine.

I sighed as I climbed into the car and Ray looked over with a smirk plastered across his face.

What? I said wearily.

He chuckled seems you do have a heart after all

Ignoring the comment I replied,

I have a breakfast meeting in town at eight in the morning, I’ll be needing the limo, make sure it’s stocked.

Then I turned my attention to the window determined to ignore his suggestion but at the same time realising that maybe he was right. Once again I found myself arranging for a delivery to Stephany. This time it was much more practical. The thought of seeing her injured made me even more determined to look after her so I had organised a body protector and some luminous horse ware to be dispatched first thing.

The meeting was long and tedious but the clients enjoyed the ride in the limo never the less. I was finalising a deal on another restaurant the other side of town and I’d managed to finally get the current investors to agree on a price. It would be a sister to Bianco’s and if it offered the same exclusivity that Bianco’s did it was sure to be a major money maker.

After another night plagued by chilling memories I dragged myself from a restless night into the shower. Standing there underneath the hot jets I couldn’t help but think about her and what she was doing. Dam I had to stop doing that. Once I’d conjured her in my mind’s eye I simply had no choice but to take my already hard cock into my hand and jerk off against the flow of the water as it washed over me, all the while imagining it was her hand that was wrapped around me as I pumped back and forth until my cum was swirling down the plug hole as I growled at the satisfaction of my release. Stepping out of the shower I wrapped a towel around my waist and sent her a txt. I was thrilled when she agreed to spend the afternoon with me and quickly set about arranging for supplies to be delivered to the Lodge to ensure I had everything we’d need this afternoon. Then I called Ray.

I’m taking the day off. I’ll be going over to the Lodge later but I’m taking the bike so you can have the rest of the day off. Go spend some time with that gorgeous wife of yours.

The Lodge? he questioned.

Yeah Ray the Lodge and before you ask yes I’m taking Stephany over there.

Is that wise Jake? I mean you’ve never taken anyone up there before.

He was treading on thin ice and he knew it by questioning me but let’s face it Ray was just about the only person able to question what I did and well, I guess it was good to have someone on the ground to keep me focused but right now wild horses couldn’t stop me from spending time with Stephany and there was only one place I wanted to be with her and that was the Lodge. I don’t know why, I just knew it had to be there. I sighed and ran my hand through my damp hair before I replied.

Fuck Ray, this girls gotten under my skin and I need to know more about her so the only place I can do that without any interference is somewhere where I know we won’t be interrupted. Somewhere that I feel comfortable.

Okay, but the bike? Do you really think she’ll go for it?

I laughed oh yeah, she’ll go for it alright. If she can ride a horse, she can ride on the back of my bike and something tells me she’s just a little bit of an adrenalin junky. I shrugged

Just a hunch, but if not I can always go get the car.

Okay Jake. Just be careful yeah, and thanks for the time off, Paulette will be thrilled. I might even take her out to dinner.

Yeah, you do that Ray, and enjoy.

And with that I hung up, got dressed and went to my desk to finish off some emails. There were a few loose ends I needed to tie up if I was taking the day off. Something I’d not done in a very long time.

Feeling like a kid, full of excitement I Jumped onto my bike and made my way over to meet Steph hoping and praying that she would be okay with my selected mode of transport. She took my breath away, again, the look of sheer delight on her face when she spotted the bike. She was impressed too, I could tell. Everybody admired my bike, it was my pride and joy. The feeling as she wrapped her arms around me and snuggled so close behind was something short of ecstasy. I could feel her frim breasts as she pressed herself closer as we pulled away. Man I could stay here all day, right here on the bike with her nestled behind me, the soft scent of her perfume wafting under my helmet as the wind picked it up. I allowed it to fill my nostrils and relished in the heady feeling as it took hold of my senses. I took it steady so as not to unnerve her too much, turning a few times to check she was okay. When we finally reached the woods I had to slow it right down, the tracks here were pretty bumpy and that makes the bike difficult to handle, after all it’s not really designed for off-roading. Normally I’d use the quad if I was coming out to the lodge but I really didn’t want to come via the main house so instead I relished in the feel of her as she tightened her grip as we bumped along.

When we finally arrived at the small gate that would lead us to the back of the lodge we just sat for a moment, as if neither of us wanted to lose the connection. Her face was again a picture of merriment as she took in the unfamiliar surroundings. I took her hand in mine, instantly feeling complete and led her through the long grass, filling my lungs with the freshness of the air as we went. When she questioned our whereabouts I teased her a little knowing the best was yet to come. Although I’d been to the lodge plenty, I’d never actually brought anyone else up here. The place was kind of special. Yeah, I know that sounds a bit sissy but it was. It was somewhere I could escape too, a place where I could be at one with myself, a kind of secret hideaway that I brought myself too every now and again. So bringing Stephany out here was a big deal but something told me she was worth the risk.

Once we reached the lodge I left her to take in the surroundings as I set up the loungers before removing my jeans and t shirt. Boy it was hot today and somehow being here with her just had me simmering, a new kind of warmth consuming me. My breath hitched as I watched her slowly drag her tongue along her bottom lip before she gently drew it in between her teeth. Then still glued to the vision before me I just sat and watched as she slowly removed her own jeans and tee shirt revealing the sexiest little bikini underneath. The silky white material making her already tanned skin look even more enticing. God I wanted touch her so dammed badly it almost hurt. I could see the bruising still across her shoulder from her riding accident the other day and mocked her some about being careful, that crazy feeling of needing to protect her flooding through me once more. So when she handed me the sun screen asking me to rub some into her back I felt like a child that was about to be let lose in a toy shop.

I swept her hair over her shoulder and gently massaged the oily mixture into her skin. I felt like I’d died and gone to heaven. What the hell? She was just another woman wasn’t she? So why the fuck did I feel like she was the only woman in the whole world right now. Jesus I seriously had to get a grip. Then as I allowed my hands to wander further down along her curvy waist towards the edge of her bikini bottoms my eyes fell on the intricate lettering of the words "Carpe Diem" Wow, the way the letters blended into those curves was something else. I took a deep breath before asking what it meant. She was very cagey when she told me it’s meaning and instantly had me wanting to know more. Even though she tried to distract me while she massaged cream into my muscles I didn’t let her off the hook. No way. Now I had her I wanted to know everything about her and fuck if she carried on with those hands I was at risk of fucking her right here on the decking. Needless to say my dick was immediately ready and waiting as it throbbed beneath my baggy swim shorts. Did she have any idea what she did to me?

Pulling myself away I went inside to get some drinks. She was nervous I could tell and she was smoking again so I grabbed a glass and poured her a whiskey. Why the hell was she so nervous? It was weird, I mean even I knew that not every woman was about to throw themselves at my feet but hell, it was as if she had some kind of inner mechanism that threw down the shutters closing me and the rest of the world out. Then as I sat and watched as she told me her story about her mother my heart began to melt. She spoke with a kind of sorrow in her voice that until this very moment I thought that nobody except me could ever know. It was like we had this connection, two broken souls whose paths had crossed on some crazy road to destiny. Today would be the beginning of the end because I just knew that after today things would never be the same between us. Today would be the day that we both would share the tiniest part of ourselves and it scared the shit out of me. Our worlds so different and I could tell right here and now that when she learned about who I really was we would be shattered and I wondered if a million particles could ever be put back together.

That was it, I simply couldn’t help myself. The sadness in her beautiful brown eyes as I watched the tears tumble over her perfect cheeks. I took her onto my arms determined to swallow up her sadness and kissed her. She fit into my body perfectly as we stood lost in the passion of our kiss. Our tongues searching and tasting each other as our lips clashed together. My erection pressed against her stomach and I could feel the goose bumps rise across her bare skin. Our breathing was frenzied and my heart was beating so fast it felt like I was having the most amazing rush I’d ever experienced. So when she pulled back, breathless and trembling there was nothing I could do but stand back and watch as those shutters came crashing down once more.

Determined to bring her back to me I didn’t give my next move a great deal of thought. Just took a deep breath before sweeping her up into my arms and running towards the edge of the decking before plunging us both into the cool water of the lake upon which the lodge sat. Now I definitely felt like a teenager again as we messed around in the water. Dam it felt good. I was having fun. I mean, I felt like the joker in the batman movie my cheeks ached that much from smiling. Once I could see she was getting cold I climbed out of the water before hoisting her tiny frame back up onto the decking. Jees she was so light, which just made me smile in awe at how dam strong she was. Not an ounce of fat on her toned firm body. She was perfect. Ample breasts, cute firm ass, tiny waist and the most beautiful face I had ever clapped eyes on.

After grabbing a selection of fruit that had been stocked in the Lodge I sat myself back down and after a little banter drew in a deep breath before enlightening her on a piece of my own past. Sharing the connection I have with horses and the loss of my own mother. What I didn’t tell her was how I could never be around horses again, something that was beginning to bother me more and more as I tumbled further and further into this strange feeling of desire for this woman that sat beside me.

Come with me I asked, well commanded.

To the ball. I want you there, by my side.

For a moment I thought she was going to refuse, but then when she agreed I was lost in a feeling of gratefulness that I honestly can’t describe. Since I’d set up the foundation nine years ago I’d refused to attend any of the functions, just offering support from a distance. But now, since I’d met this amazing woman something told me that I needed to go. Strangely with her by my side I felt stronger, strong enough to concur the world regardless of the guilt and memories that plagued me.

We spent the rest of the afternoon just chilling in the warmth of the sun, no conversation necessary as we lay against the loungers soaking up the rays. I grimaced when we were interrupted by a txt on her phone, I’d left mine back at my digs above the casino determined not to be interrupted on this my first day off in god knows how long. I’m not sure if it was simply the interruption or the fact that she was having to go meet with the dam farrier again that had me huffing like a spoilt child. I decided that I’d take the opportunity to check in with Ray and see how the reservation for diner tomorrow was coming along and so borrowing her phone I went inside the lodge to speak to ensure she couldn’t hear my conversation. Before returning her phone to her I sneakily added a ring tone to my number. It was a song that over the last few days I hadn’t been able to get out of my head. Every time I heard it I couldn’t help but think of Stephany, truly beginning to believe that I had in fact been waiting my whole life for her to walk right into it.

Once we were settled on the bike again I revelled once more at the closeness of our bodies as we made our back through the woodland and out onto the open road. My stomach grumbled, hunger suddenly consuming me. Stephany must be hungry too, so I decided on a little detour and took a sharp left at the junction for the spur road and headed down the lanes. We’d call in and see Ted at The Huntsman’s Arms. Somewhere else I’d not been for a very long time. Too long in fact.

The food as always was delicious and once more I found myself sharing parts of me that I’d never shared with anyone before, telling her about how I’d met Gavin back in the day when we were fighters. She told me more about herself too. Talking a little about her brother and how he’d introduced her to weight lifting. God she had no idea how much she amazed me. She was simply unlike any other woman I had ever met before. She had a good appetite too, just watching her as she devoured her meal had me wanting her more and more. Desperate to feel those luscious lips of hers on parts of my body that others craved for. When a bit of chocolate sauce from our dessert lingered on her lips I couldn’t stop myself from licking it away teasing her and making her blush. Fuck my dick was twitching again. If I didn’t have her soon I was definitely going to go insane but a little voice inside my head warned me to play it cool coz I knew that as soon as I had her I was never gonna give her up. Ever. Period. I just knew right here in this moment as I looked at her mascara smeared eyes once she was mine, she’d have to be mine forever.

I delivered her safely back to her apartment and rode home feeling as light as a feather. Memories of the day we’d just spent together swimming around inside my head.

I had a couple of missed calls from Carolyn when I checked my phone and a dozen texts from various women all wanting a piece of my ass. Grimacing I threw my phone down onto the desk and sat back in the chair as I ran my hands through my hair wondering how the hell I was going to explain my playboy past to Stephany, scared to death of the effect it would likely have on this delicate relationship that I was tip toeing into. After a cheeky phone call to Steph to test out my new ring tone I took to the shower and once again found myself jerking off into the hot water as my mind involuntarily brought her image to me.

I had Ray use the limousine tonight. I wanted everything to be just perfect and a private booth at Bianco’s was just what I needed. I knew there would be paps outside the restaurant but I’d make sure none of their pictures made it to the press. No one had managed to publish pictures of me yet and I wasn’t about to let them start now, but I knew it might freak Stephany out so just before we arrived I leant forward and kissed her. I’d been struggling to keep my hands off her since the moment I’d clapped eyes on her. She was wearing that dress she had worn last Saturday and man she looked hot!

I was thank full that Marianne didn’t appear too familiar as she showed us to the booth and I was conscious of Stephany’s unease at the pap’s that had bombarded us as we’d entered. I’d have to get Pete to get onto the press office before the night was over to ensure none of the pictures ended up in tomorrow’s papers, after all I wasn’t ready to publicly announce the fact that I was off limits and doubted very much that Stephany would be pleased at seeing her own pictures sprawled all over the tabloids either. Tina on the other hand was beginning to do my head in and I could see that Stephany had picked up on her flirting too. It did however amuse me slightly to think that another woman showing me such attention would piss her off as much as Tina clearly was. I chuckled to myself as I ordered our meal speaking fluent Italian, yeah, I wanted to impress her and I think it worked. She clearly wasn’t used to being wined and dined and it gave her a kind of innocence that just made her appear more adorable.

I decided to play a little game. Although she had agreed to come to the foundation ball next Saturday, there was no way she would let me buy her a dress. She had already made that perfectly clear. Just another trait of hers that had her standing head and shoulders above any other woman I had ever met. My wealth had absolutely no meaning to her and I doubted she had the faintest idea just how wealthy I was. Most of the woman I had were hell bent on trying to capture me or busy spending my hard earned cash. That’s why I always used a condom and insisted on all of them leaving as soon as I’d finished with them. No one ever stayed the night and none of them got a glimpse of the real me. No friendship, no trust, nothing, just whatever money I was prepared to waste and some cheap thrills in the bedroom. But Stephany was simply oblivious to who I was and just seemed intent on diving deeper into my soul and so help me god there was absolutely nothing I could do to stop her. So managing to secure a wager on whether or not she would like the prawns I had ordered she agreed to let me take her shopping if she did indeed like them. Shit I hoped to hell she did because there was absolutely no fucking way she was going to get me on the back of that horse of hers. I mean it had been almost twenty years since I’d sat on a horse and I was not about to do it again, not for her or for anyone. The memories of riding with my mother still way to painful even after everything that had happened between then and now. There were some things time simply couldn’t heal.

I waited nervously as she took the small piece of prawn between her luscious lips and even had to shift in my seat at the rush of blood to my groin. Relief washed over me as she gave her verdict and admitted that the prawns were in fact tasty. Victory! My mind already organising a shopping trip she was not likely to forget. I watched with hungry eyes as they feasted on her backside as they followed her as she made her way to the ladies room. I pulled out my phone and quickly rang Ray asking him to get hold of Patricia at The Ritz Hotel and reserve the Club Imperial suite for next Thursday regardless of cost. I wanted that suite no matter what.

Tina delivered our main course and as I looked across to see what might be keeping her my stomach sank and a sudden jolt of nausea shot through me as I watched unable to move as Carolyn sauntered across and sat herself before me in Stephany’s chair.

So Jake, it seems that you’ve been somewhat preoccupied lately. I see you’ve found yourself a new toy.

What the fuck! What do you want Carolyn? I barked feeling more and more uneasy as each second passed.

Want Jake? Why I would have thought that was obvious. She laughed as she reached over and took a drink from my glass.

Just before I could say anything she continued

I’ve just had a very interesting chat with your little friend back there….

Fuck off Carolyn. I don’t know what your fucking game is but I don’t need this now and I sure as hell don’t owe you anything. You have no claim on me. I told you before and I’ll tell you now I don’t do relationships and I don’t belong to anyone!

Anger was welling up inside and I was getting desperate to end this argument before Stephany returned and then just as I was about to stand and physically remove Carolyn I saw her as she cautiously made her way back to the table. The look of horror and disappointment in her eyes was one I never wanted to see again as long as I lived. I had no idea what Carolyn had said to her but judging by the look on her face it wasn’t pleasant.

At first she was calm, reaching down to her glass and draining the contents. Oh Shit. Something told me this was about to get ugly. Then after announcing she was leaving she looked at me with what I can only describe as hatred in her eyes as she spouted some shit about my being with her was all a bet. Her words fell out with such venom I felt paralysed, unable to move or speak and so just sat in silence watching as she proceeded to empty the contents of her plate into Carolyn’s lap before turning and marching out of the restaurant.

I stood up and grabbed Carolyn roughly by the arm, dragging her out of the chair uncaring of the food that fell from her lap.

What the fuck did you tell her?! I yelled as I tightened my grip.

Laughing, she simply said

The truth Jake. I simply told her the truth about how you bet on fucks and use women as play things.

You fucking bitch! I’m warning you now. You stay the fuck away from her do you hear me? I mean it Carolyn, you don’t speak to her again, God dammit I don’t even want you to look at her. Do you understand me?

Sure I understand you Jake. She spat, then added,

"Besides, you haven’t managed to fuck her yet have you? Don’t worry baby, I’ll be waiting when you’ve given up the chase. You’ll come back to me. You