Maxed Out

By Jamie Salisbury

Formerly published as Rockin' the Boss and Life and Lies...
Women flock to him...but he only has eyes for one.
Max Frazier, international rock star. Tall, brooding and delicious he is much more than he appears. The world is his oyster, and Max knows each and every pearl is his for the taking.
He also holds a dark secret...
Ashleigh Thomas is rich, filthy rich. Money means nothing to her. Work is her life. With the death of her husband, Ashleigh has thrown herself into her entertainment agency, and Max. 
A set of unusual circumstances throw the two together and Ashleigh finds herself in a world, until now, she'd only read about.
Will she allow Max to lead her into temptation and ultimately submit to Max... or is her stubbornness and independent nature too much for even Max to tame.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jamie Salisbury
• Release date: Jul 27, 2018
• ISBN: 9781386683674

Jamie Salisbury

Writing romance stories with passion and sass, Jamie Salisbury has seen several of her books soar to #1 on Amazon. Her novella, Tudor Rubato was a finalist in the 2012 RONE (Reward of Novel Excellence) awards. The cover won for Best Contemporary Cover. In 2014, her novel, Life and Lies was nominated for a RONE in the Erotica category. Her books are self published . Music, traveling and history are among her passions when not writing. Her previous career in public relations in and around the entertainment field has afforded her with a treasure trove of endless story ideas.

Book preview

PART ONE

Chapter One

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Atlanta, GA

I had many personal fantasies; one favorite involved falling deeply in love with perhaps a writer or a musician, someone creative. It all seemed so romantic—how we would meet, fall in love, marry, have kids and live happily ever after. It was just a silly dream I indulged in whenever my cynicism took a brief leave of absence.

This fantasy must have been in the back of my mind when I asked Max Frazier to meet with me. And of course he was late. I glanced down at the Rolex on my wrist for the umpteenth time. Where the hell is he? Come on Max, time is money. My money.

Grabbing my cell off the table, I started to dial his number. As I waited for the first ring, a manicured, well-tanned hand intercepted the phone.

Sorry I’m late. Traffic. Max sat across from me, and I decided photographs did not do him justice.

No problem. I crossed my legs and stared into the loveliest pair of chocolate brown eyes I’d ever come across. Add in his long, black-brown hair, a physique to go along, and...well, he would be any woman’s fantasy. I trust the team is taking good care of you?

He just held his gaze on me. He appeared cool in spite of the hot, humid summer day, dressed in dark jeans and a black shirt with the sleeves rolled halfway up his forearms. He came across as a confident, in control man. Then, the corners of his mouth twitched as he finally flashed a lopsided grin my way. Yes, of course they are.

All right, let’s get started.

I’m Ashleigh Thomas, and I own Ashleigh Nichole Thomas Communications, or ANT as we refer to it. My late husband and I started the firm. Now that he's gone, it's up to me to sign new clients or save old ones. The one and only Maxwell is the firm’s biggest money maker. Like Prince, he goes by no last name. Max is a hugely successful entertainer, far more than just a singer. He's an entertainer’s entertainer.

Would you care for a drink, Ashleigh? I believe you like Cabernet, if I remember correctly? He motioned a waitress, selected a bottle, and then requested a menu as he finished our beverage order.

Moments later, the young woman returned with the wine, and Max poured a glass for each of us. His movements were slow and sensual. It was as though he wanted me to take in every detail of his physique. I hope you’re hungry, because I’m starving. This place makes some killer, greasy hamburgers.

I caught his regard as it traveled over my upper body, moved over my breasts, and slid up my neck before lingering on my lips. Intense, smoldering heat filled his eyes. Ice would melt under such a look. Warmth stirred within my core as I felt my cheeks flush. I’m attracted to him, but I don’t know if a relationship is what I need right now.

Max, the reason I asked you to meet me away from the office was to discuss a business proposition; a venture which has the potential to make us both a lot of money.

Go on, you’ve got my full attention.

I’ve been approached by a firm who owns an establishment in Vegas. They dumped millions of dollars into a theater designed for one certain female diva. I understand she’s broken her contract and left them without a permanent act.

I knew Max was a man of many talents—not only was he talented on stage, he was also a shrewd businessman. That draws me to him even more.

They’re thinking of hiring me? He wasn’t smiling, but his eyes certainly were.

Is he playing with me? Yes, they are. Quite seriously, in fact. You were their first choice. I’d be willing to pursue this with you, if you’re interested.

Of course I am.

Then, the server arrived with lunch and, as Max promised, the food was greasy and delicious. As I ate, my mind whirled with ideas. Why don’t you drop by my place for dinner this evening? We can chat in further detail.

I would love to come dine with you. When should I arrive? A slight smirk teased the corners of his mouth.

Discreetly, I leaned forward and breathed in his scent. The combination of aftershave, cologne, and man was intoxicating. I swallowed hard and tried to ignore the burning sensations that ran through my body. What about seven o’clock?

That sounds fine. He sat back in his chair. His low, throaty laugh made me shiver as he caught me watching him intently. I look forward to it.

After an appropriate amount of time, our waitress brought the check. Immediately I went for it, but Max got there first, handing the girl more than enough cash to cover the meal. Allow me, he grinned.

He stood and offered his hand, helping me out of my seat. We walked to the exit without saying a word, his palm pressed against the small of my back. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught him staring down at me again. He opened the door, and I felt his body brush beside mine as we strolled out into the piercing, afternoon sun.

As I made my way to the front door, I checked the full-length mirror one last time. Looking back, my reflection revealed a deep purple, silk Versace blouse and black pants. My God Ashleigh, you’re pathetic! You don’t need to start a relationship with this man, regardless how long it’s been or how much you want to. Why? Number one, he’s your client. And number two, he’s way younger than you.

The desk downstairs knew to expect Max. I lived in a luxury, high-rise condo, the same building where part-time Atlanta resident Elton John and his partner resided. As I opened the door, I almost swooned. Max looked like one of those male models on a romance novel cover, only better. Dressed in black slacks and a gray shirt, he had his dark hair mussed up in style. Basically, he reeked sex.

Come on in Max, you’re right on time.

He sauntered into the living room and headed straight for the floor-to-ceiling windows. Towering over six feet tall, with broad shoulders and back, muscular hips, and long legs, he had the best-looking rear end I’d ever seen on a man. Lord knows, he’d been asked countless of times to make TV commercials or model for print ads. However, I knew he had no interest in them and rolled his eyes at the mere mention of either. Entertaining on stage, in front of a crowd, was his life.

Every time I see this place, the more I love it, he murmured as he turned to face me, bringing me back to reality.

I know there are a couple of units available. If you’re interested, I can put in a good word for you.

Hmmm, I might need to give that serious thought.

May I get you something to drink?

Cabernet, if you have some.

The rich, sensual lilt in his voice made my body tremble all over. It’s amazing what this man can do to me. I walked over to the sideboard I used as a bar and reached for two glasses. Would you like to choose one for us? I gestured toward the unopened bottles.

Max studied all three selections before deciding on one. He used the counter top corkscrew to pull the cork free effortlessly. Then, he picked up one of the Riedel O cabernet glasses, filled one with the rich liquid, and handed it to me. His long fingers touched my slim ones. He gazed at me from hooded eyes. My God, he’s flirting with me.

Come. Let’s sit awhile before dinner and chat. I walked into the living room and sat in one of the chenille, wingback chairs. Max followed and lowered himself down onto the buttery soft, beige leather sofa and took a sip of his wine before he placed the glass on a side table.

Have you given any thought to what we talked about earlier? I eyed him for any subtle body language.

Yes, I have. I believe you and I need to discreetly make a trip to Vegas and check everything out. I’d like to do it soon, before they ask us.

Those were my thoughts exactly. I’ll go ahead and set it up.

Yes, please do, he answered.

I caught him checking me out again. His gaze lustfully lingered on my breasts, his pupils smoldering. Earth to Ashleigh! I quickly tried to focus my attention elsewhere, anywhere that would keep my mind off his eyes. Why don’t you join me while I finish getting things ready for dinner?

He followed me into the kitchen and watched as I carefully filled two plates with a shrimp and scallop risotto. The smell of the red, yellow and green peppers that flavored the dish permeated the room.

Would you mind getting the salad and dressing out of the refrigerator for me, please? Taking the plates to the large, mahogany dining table, I carefully set them down. Max followed, placing the requested items in the center. I motioned for him to sit as I uncovered the Italian bread and poured us both another serving of wine.

So, Max, you were born in Manhattan but raised in the U.K.? I took a bite of the risotto.

The corners of his mouth twitched like they had earlier in the day. This time he did not smile. Yes, Father is Scottish American, my mother Irish. I spent a great deal of my childhood in boarding schools. I attended St. Andrews in Scotland but dropped out senior year and started playing in the clubs in London. Rebellion, I suppose.

Fortunately for us, your rebellion turned out to be quite successful. I watched him for some kind of reaction. He continued to eat in silence for a couple of minutes, as though he needed time to consider his response.

He smiled and placed his fork down, settling back in his chair. The two of us eyed each other, and I wondered what was coming. Now, let me see how well I’ve done my homework. Your father is French, and your mother American. She comes from old money, as does your father.

Bravo! You’re well-versed, and I plead the fifth to everything! I grinned at him, his brown eyes laughing.

Then, his voice and demeanor took a more serious tone. Then there was your marriage to Richard and his sudden death.

I carefully placed my fork back on the plate and stared at him, shocked that he would bring up Richard. We had been together for close to fifteen years. It had been obvious to everyone except me that he had married me exclusively for the money and connections that my family brought. What he had not expected was Papa insisting on a prenuptial agreement.

Richard made the best of the knowledge that he would get nothing if he ever chose to leave. As soon as we married, sex was non-existent between us. He had a steady stream of mistresses and thought little of parading them in front of me. The agency had been his idea, as he had loved the lifestyle and fame it brought. His life had ended as he had lived—hard, fast, and mysterious.

I took a bite of salad and did not react immediately. I was surprised when you moved to Atlanta. As I changed the subject, my tone made it clear to Max that Richard was an issue I did not wish to discuss.

"I wanted to be closer to the new team you put together. Manhattan can be so over-rated and expensive. California I love, but it’s even further away. But I do like the climate and the opportunities. Atlanta intrigued me. What made you move here?" The sides of his mouth curled up as though he already knew the answer.

What’s he up to? Atlanta is special. My mother’s from the area, and I spent a lot of time here growing up.

Ah-ha! he boomed, as he grinned at me. "Now I know why your parent’s named you Ashleigh. It's so Atlanta, so Southern, so Gone with the Wind."

Better than the alternative I suppose.

What would that be?

"My father wanted to name me Coco after Coco Chanel, which might have worked in France, but here I don’t know. At least fun can be had with Ashleigh. You know, the Gone with the Wind melodrama. I replied as we left the table and headed into the living room. Would you like coffee, Max, or perhaps something stronger?"

A brandy sounds great, love, his accent thicker than earlier.

The change did not go unnoticed as I left to fetch the liquor. I returned with two snifters and handed one to him. He seated himself back on the sofa as I walked around to a chair where I could gaze at him from a safe distance.

I thought, if you are in agreement, we’d stay at a condo that belongs to a girlfriend of mine. She travels extensively. I’m sure she’d be more than happy to let us use her place.

That sounds fine. When do you want to leave? His deep brown stare roamed over my body, a grin curving his luscious lips.

I shifted in my seat, trying desperately not to notice. Day after tomorrow suit you?

Chapter Two

Ashleigh... Max called out to me. He must have noticed I seemed to be somewhere else. He appeared to be aware of the attraction between the two of us and more than interested in pursuing it.

Yes, I’m sorry, what were you saying? The idea of this venue has my head spinning with ideas.

I was saying how I love your plane, much nicer than flying commercial. Max chuckled, his eyes dancing with amusement as I looked at him out of the corner of my eye.

One of the perks of having family money. The plane is part of my father’s fleet. I simply lease one from him, let his firm worry about all the maintenance and such, and I receive a bill once a month.

So you were able to get in touch with your girlfriend? We’re staying at her place? I couldn’t help but notice how he looked me up and down from where he sat.

Yes, she’s in Hong Kong and was happy to accommodate. I think we’ll be able to move around much more discreetly this way. I glanced over at him and forced myself to look away as I shivered, naughty thoughts filling my head at the idea of being alone together for an extended period of time.

Upon arrival, we took a taxi to our home for the next few days. I immersed myself as I checked my iPhone for messages. I turned toward Max and noticed out of the corner of my eye that he was doing the same.

I imagine your girlfriends aren’t happy when you leave town without them, I prodded to get some sort of a rise out of him.

He grinned in my direction as he glanced up from his cell. I’m not involved with anyone, Ashleigh. He was still smiling as the cab stopped in front of our building. Holding the door open, he extended his hand to assist me out.

As we entered the apartment, I threw my oversized, Louis Vuitton bag on a chair in the living room and walked toward him. Let me show you to your room. We walked down the hall, and I opened the door to the guest room. I hope this will be okay.

It’s fine, he replied. I caught him eyeing the feminine decor. I think I’ll freshen up after that long flight.

Okay. I’m going to call the office and check in. I smiled and tried to walk away seductively.

A short time later, Max reappeared, clad in jeans and a T-shirt. Still wearing the clothes I had on when we left Atlanta, I sat in front of the sliding glass door leading outside to a small deck. I didn’t hear him as he entered, but detected the marriage of his aftershave and cologne.

You decided not to change? he inquired, moving in my direction.

The hairs on my arms stood on end at his close proximity. Oh, no, I guess I lost track of time. I picked up a glass of sparkling water garnished with a lime slice. The fridge is stocked with beer if you want one.

Thanks, I think I will. He turned and walked back toward the kitchen. I couldn’t help but watch him as he sauntered off.

The ring of my phone interrupted the personal fantasy I was having at that moment. I glanced down to see who was on the other end. I need to take this. It’s Lisa.

He nodded and sat back in his chair, beer in hand.

Lisa was an energetic young gal I brought in from the Hollywood office when Richard died. After he passed away, I was completely blindsided by what transpired. Except for Max and a few other clients, the majority jumped ship. Richard’s management style, or lack of it, had all but run the company into the ground. No one wanted to work under me, afraid of the untested widow. Within the first month, I had closed all the agency offices except for Atlanta.

I had needed to train an assistant and thought Lisa would be a perfect match. She was part of the group I assembled to oversee Max’s career and needs. Lisa, however, was quite smitten with Mr. Frazier, a little too much for my comfort zone.

Ashleigh, where are you? the young woman asked, her voice as grating as her informality.

I’m in New England taking care of some business for my father. Why?

I’ve been trying to reach Max and haven’t been able to find him.

Well, Max is a grown man, Lisa. He probably took advantage of having some down time before he goes into the studio. I’m sure he’s fine. I cast a quick look toward Max who appeared to be studying the conversation as it unfolded.

Shouldn’t he let me, or someone, know where he’s going when he goes out of town?

No, he shouldn’t. If he was going off for an extended period of time, he’d let someone know. Was there anything else? By now, I was more than a little irritated by her line of questioning.

No ma’am, she replied. Disappointment was evident in the sound of her voice.

Good. I’ll be checking in off and on. Have a good evening, Lisa. I hit the end button and gazed over at Max.

Well, someone seems to be concerned about you and your whereabouts, Mr. Frazier, I teased, throwing him a smile.

Yes, she is a tad on the smothering side, he replied, his accent a little thicker once again.

I wondered what he’s thinking. Lisa is the last thing you need to worry about, Max. Unless of course...

She’s definitely not my type, Ashleigh. Don’t go there, please. His body language confirmed his words.

I was joking. But if she makes you uncomfortable, tell me and I’ll assign someone else to head up your account. Okay? I need to change the subject. Would you like to check this new show out tonight? I was able to get tickets, thanks to my girlfriend. She had them delivered downstairs to the desk.

Yes I would. He ran his hand through his long, dark hair.

I thought it would be best if we caught the early show. You’re not the easiest man to take out in public you know. I grinned, thinking of how some of the younger girls might think he had the looks of one of their favorite vampire actors, with his longish hair and good looks.

What’s so amusing? A smirk appeared on his face.

Just envisioning the scene if someone recognized you.

I see, he replied, winking.

I shivered again at the personal attention he seemed to cast my way.

A few hours later we caught a cab for our evening out. Max dressed in dark gray slacks with a matching shirt of a darker gray hue. I put on a simple off-white blouse and black slacks. We snuck in and caught the first show, then walked through the casino afterwards. Max suggested dinner at an out-of-the-way restaurant, which sounded too good to pass up.

Once seated at a quiet table, we sipped on a Merlot he had picked out as he turned the discussion in another direction, away from his thoughts about the theater.

Have you thought about what we might do with the remainder of our time? I’m sure we will be returning here in the next few weeks, aren’t you? He swirled his wine glass, watching the liquid intently. A sly smile crossed his face.

We could stay here, or we could fly somewhere close...unless you’ve thought of something.

No, I haven’t exactly.

How would you feel about Wyoming? My family has a ranch outside Jackson Hole. No one will be there. They’re all in the Hampton’s.

Max reached his hand across the table, taking hold of mine and pulling it to his mouth to kiss the back. He gave me a smoldering look and I wondered if tonight he might pursue what my whole body ached for him to.

Whatever you decide, I know it will be incredible. He smiled at me lustfully as I slowly freed my fingers from his grip.

The waitress interrupted the moment with our food. Neither of us spoke for several minutes, lost in the pure enjoyment of our dinner. Then, Max poured us another glass of wine.

I think you’ll enjoy the ranch, Max. I always like going there to recharge. It’s isolated and pristine. The sort of peace you can’t find in the city. I eyed him as he watched me, acutely aware of the strong, sexual undercurrent that had developed over the evening.

His stare caught mine. What? He too must have been cognizant of the unsaid transpiring between us.

Nothing, I simply thought how easy it is to be around you. I’m quite comfortable with you.

"Thank