If Tomorrow Comes Genesis Vol 2

By Vivian E Moore

I always took tomorrow for granted. I never thought my last twenty-four hours on the earth could come at the stroke of midnight, or when the cock crowed at dawn. Hey, I love life as much as the next person and when I thought I had everything just right, the end of my life came without warning. At least, it’s what I thought. Until an angel saved me. Not a real one but pretty darn close. My knight in shining armor came and rescued me from deaths door.
My second chance came with a price though. One I was happy to give everything I had for; love. I fell head over keister, so deeply that I didn’t see that coming either. No one ever said loving someone ever came without its own set of problems. Love is supposed to be stronger than any obstacle set in its path, right? But is it enough to keep two people together when the odds are stacked against them? Good and bad coexisting together is simply impossible. Or if it is possible, how do you work out the differences? Even if a powerful and undeniable bond exist between two people, sometimes it still makes you question, is it enough?
Trials come to make you stronger; at least that's what they say. My life is the testament for trials and tribulation. I face what others would define as, insurmountable odds. Good always trumps evil, though, right? Well, sometimes evil can give you a good run for your money.
Falling in love made me forget about all the serious stuff that can happen and think of new beginnings. Genesis, like the first book of the Bible. I think about the future a lot these days. With a little more than luck I’ll make it through each obstacle and take on the challenges of life, family, and foes meeting them all head-on, every step of the way.
If tomorrow comes, I plan to live it to the fullest.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Vivian E Moore
• Release date: Jul 9, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463274026

Vivian E Moore

Vivian E. Moore is a southern girl who loves writing about romance. Her unofficial title is Relationship Expert. She first discovered her knack for telling stories at an early age that transformed into her debut novel Room in The Attic published in 2011. Soon followed by her second publication, Love Unrequited A Lament For love released in 2012. She once again put pen to paper and released If Tomorrow Comes Requiem in 2016 and Genesis 2018.Writing is a gift she doesn’t take for granted and thankful for the opportunity to express the most profound emotion through the characters she creates. Not only does she write but also hosts a weekly radio web-based blog on Spreaker, Book Chat with Author Vivian E. Moore. Her show is all about motivation and inspiring writers to do what they do best. She tries to share what she’s learned along her journey as a writer. Planting seeds of wisdom while uplifting and encouraging simultaneously.Vivian would like to see every artist succeed and focused on what is most important to them. She uses her platform to enlighten and inspire others. She gives them hope with a dose of reality about what it takes to make it in the writing and publishing world. With quirky titles but sound topics on writing and being creative, it is her sole purpose to change their outlook, by offering them a unique perspective. She desires to change the way people see the world one page at a time.

Book preview

IF TOMORROW COMES

BOOK 2: GENESIS

VIVIAN ELICE MOORE

Copyright © 2016 Vivian Elice Moore

All Rights Reserved. No part(s) of this book may be

Reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form, or by any

Means, or stored in a database or retrieval systems without

Prior expressed written permission of the author of this book.

ISBN: 9781983313233

THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED TO MY CHILDHOOD FRIEND AND ANYONE WHO HAS EVER BEEN A VICTIM OF ABUSE AND SUFFERED PTSD AS A RESULT. DON’T SUFFER IN SILENCE CONTACT THE CRISIS HOTLINE IN YOUR STATE FOR HELP.

GENESIS

Sunrise against a magenta sky, endless rolling hills with

Majestic peaks, rising like temples, lifted toward God.

This is the beginning of a new day, a new life, a new moment.

A new revelation, the end of sorrows, woes, and disappointment.

It is the dawning of a different tomorrow, the hope for all the days to come.

This is Genesis.

Vivian E. Moore

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

PRELUDE

Life is often a fragile existence, filled with broken promises and heartache. Absent of tender kisses and affection. There is a source of healing, though: love. The language spoken by smitten hearts, whispered words of what life may bring. Images of yesterday are left behind, while the mystery of tomorrow foreshadows what the future holds.  Who can say what tomorrow will bring? Nina Hurston asked the same question only twenty-four hours ago. The allotment of time given to each human being.  One day, to hope again, to fulfill forgotten promises and mend broken hearts.  Another chance to make things right, with oneself and God. Some are not given this opportunity and she counted herself fortunate in many ways, because she had been awarded a gift, one filled with the prospects of a better future.  Another opportunity to live out her hopes and dreams, though filled with its share of heartache, treachery and redemption.

A year ago, Nina never would have thought this possible, especially when her life tottered precariously on an up and down slope. It left her somewhere between celebration and depression.  Case in point, she worked at a toy store, upscale but boring, where nothing minutely exciting ever happened. The customers were all laid back middle class to upper echelon shoppers who liked the atmosphere of a retail store designed for their specific taste. If you were looking for rare toys and one of a kind items, this was certainly the place to find them. It was one of those things. A slow day, standing around killing time before her shift ended.  She had long since moved up the ranks from cashier to store clerk. But she stood at one of the registers when she saw him on this particularly drab day. One of the most handsome men Nina had ever seen walked through the doors of Feldman’s Toy Store. Sunshine and blue skies followed him because his presence made things instantly brighter. He seemed to glow from within, a tall, dark and extremely gorgeous man with eyes the most arresting shade of blue. You could almost see the universe swirling around in them, filled with life and humor. From out of nowhere, suddenly he appeared. His upbeat demeanor dimmed a little with confusion as he gazed around the store. And no doubt he was confused, considering Feldman’s was not part of any chain empire. Therefore, the options were individualized. This made the toy choice process even more of a challenge.  Nina took the sudden manifestation of this beautiful creature as an opportunity to do more than stand around chit-chatting. She could definitely be of service,  although unsure of his purpose there. Maybe he stopped in to shop for a beloved child, or whoever, she didn’t know or care. All she knew was it had to be her lucky day. On this purposeful occasion, and all the ones following, Nina aided him with all his purchases.  He made it a point to seek her out whenever he visited the store. Sometimes he would buy toys; this suggested he had multiple children, though she doubted it; for one thing, he didn’t look old enough. And the second thing looked too conservative. Not in a bad way, but more from the perspective of making wise choices. Like how he spent his money.  There were days when he’d come in around lunch time and wouldn’t buy anything. All he wanted was the pleasure of her company. They’d discuss the weather, the latest movies blazing up the box office, but never anything personal. Whether he felt the same or not, she wanted to know him on a different level. Friendship was fine, but he struck her as being more interesting than someone to strike up a casual chat with. His body language suggested he wanted more than conversation from her. In her heart, she always knew Joshua Hunt was something special.

One wintry night, a few weeks from Christmas, she got her wish.  Not in the way she imagined it happening. He had come into the store to pick up a doll for his niece. Kinda late but she had stayed to make sure he got it. They had wished each other a Merry Christmas and parted ways, but Josh had waited for her outside the store. This was it, she thought. After all these months he would finally ask her out. To her surprise, he did not. Instead, he offered her a ride home. Disappointment or plain stupidity had kept her from accepting the ride from him. The one time he wanted to return the favor and help her out, with a random act of kindness, she had turned him down. Big mistake. If she had, she would not have suffered the consequences of being brutally attacked and left for dead. Nonetheless, there he stood with arms outstretched, pulling her to safety in the aftermath. From this night on, he never let go. Neither of them realized their lives would undergo such drastic changes because of the powerful connection they shared. And she would never trade her life with him now for any other. When she thought back to the beginning and considered, maybe, it was supposed to happen this way? In the end, all was not lost. Somehow, God had worked it out in her favor.

As fairytales went, it was how she’d met her Prince Charming.  Except Josh was very much real. Never in a million years did she ever think he would be hers. Fast forward to the present, and she could still hardly believe it. Last night, he’d proposed to her on bended knee.  The evening could not have been more perfect, until Lourdes decided to make an unannounced visit, spoiling their romantic interlude. From the time she entered Josh’s apartment the world had come crashing down around them. To an abrupt halt. She dropped a bomb designed to annihilate, with no hope of surviving the aftermath. But all was not lost. Even with destruction, life finds a way to break free of chaos like a flower growing through a crack in the sidewalk.

Lourdes’ cinematic reveal did not quite work out the way she hoped. She had relied on technology to deliver the death blow. It never came, and certainly not as planned. Often as much as the technological age advanced, sometimes it took a few destructive leaps back. But there is a balm which enables healing. In this case, it convicted and exonerated all at the same time. Nina smiled. She was sure Lourdes had expected the video she presented for their viewing pleasure would be damning. It was, but the one thing intended for evil turned out to be something kinda wonderful, including the spanking Nina had received from Josh. Love licks, though at the time, she had not viewed it quite in this way. He had intended it for punishment. Well-deserved too, he might add. The lovemaking afterwards, however, more than made up for any lingering hard feelings on both accounts. Nina grinned the happiest of smiles. She had awakened first, after an extremely powerful night of battles both out and within the bedroom. Joshua was such a passionate man, determined to make her his, no matter the cost. She gazed thoughtfully at her wonderful hero.  Her cheeks flushed red when she remembered all the naughty things he’d said and done to her last night.  The memories vivid and she smiled again.

CHAPTER 1

A Different Kind of Battle

The bedroom was dark when they entered. Josh tossed Nina onto the bed then turned on the lamp. Before she even asked one question, he said, I wanna see all of you. Her hands covered her breasts, feeling a bit exposed to his heated gaze. For months, he’d imagined her naked, sprawled on his bed, ripe for the picking like this. Never again did he have to wonder as he approached her, his smoldering blue eyes vigilant.

C’mere, Josh commanded, one finger beckoned to her invitingly. With slow deliberation Nina uncovered her breasts, slowly slid off the bed and walked to where he stood. He had that bad boy-good guy thing going on, it made him look uber sexy.

Do you realize how long I’ve waited for this moment?

Probably the same as me I can’t believe we’re here, together, alone.

Stepping into his embrace, her hardened nipples rubbed against his chest and she wrapped her arms around his neck. His body reminded her of a heater, warm and soothing.

 We are.

Josh’s mouth sought hers for a tender kiss. Not in a rush, he took his time, nibbling her bottom lip, tracing the plump, soft curve of them with his tongue. Strong fingers caressed on a slow descent down to her backside, butter soft to the touch, and he kneaded the pliable flesh with his hands like dough.

I need to see you, came Nina’s gentle command.

His breathing quickened. The thought made his heart beat faster and he backed away a few steps. Each hip bone bore deep v-shaped indentions that hinted at what lay below the waistband of his underwear. So as not to make her feel awkward, or speculate any longer, he stepped out of his boxers.

The sight of him in full naked glory both excited and created apprehension inside her. Alex was the first man she’d ever seen naked, but he lacked in comparison to Josh, his body ripped with muscles and beautifully built like an athlete. Unabashed, Nina checked him out from head to toe, but her eyes returned to his extremely noticeable erection which saluted her. Transfixed, she tore her eyes away from his magnificent rod to meet his dark blue ones, a dimpled grin smiling at her, amused. This would certainly be a much different battle.

Um, I’ll have much to contend with, she said with another glance at the object in question.

If her expression showed any signs of fear Josh thought he would not be able to deny himself the pleasure of making love to her tonight.

You can handle this? His sapphire eyes held a determined gaze.

In case she changed her mind, he closed the distance between them and directed Nina toward the bed. The backs of her legs bumped against the mattress, exactly where he wanted her. His body, hard and demanding, pressed her down onto the bed. The removal of her lacy panties was the last barrier between them. Exhibiting more patience than he had, Josh intended to take his time exploring all her supple flesh. Beginning with her forehead, he kissed her there, especially the space between her eyes and lids, each one. His tongue traced a path down her nose and kissed the tip before he devoured her lips. The taste of her he found intoxicating and it set him over the edge as his tongue plundered the recesses of her mouth, sweet and responsive. His head whirled, thinking he would suffocate from lack of oxygen. Unable to breathe, he repositioned his mouth to the sensitive spot behind her ear. This became Nina’s undoing but before she lost herself entirely the onslaught continued in a downward progression. At her throat, the space right below her ear, his teeth nipped her there with tiny bites. Each one made her writhe with unbridled pleasure. Her body shivered from the intensity.

Now. Please. I need you, she begged, wanting the sweet torture to end.

Soon, I promise, he whispered against her lips.

Oh God Josh, please now, she begged, and he ignored her.

His response was to torment her further when the fingers of one hand slipped lower. With soft kisses placed on her flat belly, he moved to sample the sweetness at the juncture of her thighs. Nina’s body went rigid from the sensation while he manipulated her sensitive flesh. Her cries of fulfillment and his name on her lips eased the onslaught. Before the elation of nirvana dimmed, he entered her. The hot recesses of her body welcomed him. The walls, like a molten cavern, wrapped around him as he eased his way inside by degrees. Extremely aroused, he knew he must be gentle so as not to hurt her by penetrating too deeply before her body acclimated to the size of him.

Let me in, sweetheart, let me in, he whispered in her ear, trying not to impale her but so drunk on desire. Halfway there, her hands pushed against his chest to lessen the fullness he created inside her. Am I hurting you? he questioned, his voiced filled with concern, the muscles of his backside taut with the control it took to hold back.

A little, she answered, wanting and resisting him at the same time.

Do you want me to stop?

No, I’m all right.

A slight moan escaped Nina’s lips as he readjusted himself inside her.

Okay, relax, please, he said in deep concentration. Your body will stretch to accommodate me. It’s been a while; you’re so tight, he explained. Oh God, he moaned.

So tight, he wanted to give her all of him. By degrees she started to loosen up at his words and learn his rhythm. Slow and gentle, with each pump of his hips she opened to him.

Good, he coaxed.

So good, Josh murmured, eyes closed, head thrown back in total abandonment. His hips moved in double time, pounding hard within her recesses. He intended to go slow and love her gently, but his desire got away from him. His knees pressed her thighs farther apart. Fingers laced with his above her head, he slammed out of control into her body. He wanted to own her as much as she did him, to leave his imprint upon her. She belonged to him.

Do you want me? his voice, raspy with desire, questioned.

Yes, Nina cried out.

A slow burn had developed from the friction between their bodies. The familiar warmth of climax enveloped her once again.

Oh, yes! she said, surrendering, lost in passion and sexual pleasure.

Drops of Josh’s sweat rained down on her as he pumped harder and faster; the biceps in his arms bulged. When Nina thought she would die from sheer pleasure the biggest orgasm of her life happened. Josh soon followed.

Spent and exhausted, he collapsed atop her. Unable to move, Nina lay there bearing the entire weight of his body.

Josh, baby, you’re crushing me.

He had her in a most uncomfortable position. When he regained enough strength to lift himself he rolled off her.

Sorry, he managed to say.

Winded and still on the most incredible high, he tried to catch his breath. A lazy smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. One blue eye, visible through a hooded lid, stared at her.

Damn, talk about being intense. Pretty sure we made a baby this go-round. His throat dry, he licked his lips.

Yeah, Nina agreed. Her female parts still throbbed from the ardent lovemaking.

Did I hurt you? Be honest with me. Remorse and sincerity filled his voice.

I’m fine. It’s been a while for me is all. The rape aside, she forced it back to the farthest recesses of her mind.

Josh rolled to a sitting position, fully recovered now.

I know. You were so tight. Sure you’re not a virgin?

The question sounded stupid to his ears, hearing it aloud.

There’s been one documented case of an immaculate conception, so I doubt it, she giggled.

Since the subject of children came up again, the thought occurred to him to ask something unclear.

You are on the pill, right?

Nina stared at him, a little confused, unsure why he would ask after the fact.

I was, but my prescription ran out a few months ago and I never refilled it.

Josh laughed nervously.  You’re kidding right? he said.

When she continued to stare at him with a serious expression, he concluded she was not. One hand pushed through the wild mass of hair on his head.

Right away she recognized his trademark signal whenever he became upset or frustrated, and his silence unnerved her.

Are you angry with me?

Why would I be? It’s my fault for assuming otherwise.

Would it be so bad if it happened? Nina’s face held a crestfallen expression.

Josh stared at her and his own look of worry lessened. The hand which had raked through his hair moments ago caressed her cheek lovingly when he imagined them creating a child together.

No, sweetheart. I would love to have two more daughters with your face and about seven mini-mes running around. If our lovemaking tonight produced a baby, we’ll deal with it, okay? he assured her and kissed her lips tenderly.

For now, I’d like to have you all to myself, so we’ll need to be more careful in the future. He broke the embrace and rolled out of bed.

Hey, where are you going? Nina asked, propped up on one elbow.

To the bathroom.

He tossed a glance her way when she giggled.

What’s so funny?

Nina’s humor was infectious.

You are. Your butt, compared to the rest of your body, is so pale.

Like a dog chasing its tail, he turned around in circles to get a look at his own backside. Succeeding in making himself dizzy, he stopped moving and finally glanced over his shoulder.

Well, I guess it is. But I doubt I’ll be walking around bare-ass naked in public for anyone else to notice it.

Nina laughed. Probably not, even if you do have a cute one.

She rolled over on her stomach to gaze at him. At her compliment, Josh struck a pose as if he prepared for a body shot, did a belly roll and pumped his hips a few times. His flaccid penis flopped around like a fish out of the water. Nina’s mouth opened wide in surprise.

Where did you learn to do that?

Three words: spring break Vegas. His lips held a devilish smile, the dimples in his cheeks prominent.

Care to explain? He sure as heck needed to.

Well, the condensed version of a long story is I blew a semester of tuition at the blackjack table and recouped my losses by stripping.

You did what? Nina sat up with the sheet tucked under her arms.

It was only for a few nights. Once I earned all the money back and a little extra on the side I quit.

All this time, I believed you learned rhythm from playing football. Guess you are a man with a past life. What else should I know about you? She gave him a sideways glance.

Josh walked over to the bed and sat beside her.

I know what Lourdes said bothers you. But I need you to know what she implied about my past was not all true. Yes, I did sleep with many women during my college years and after. You asked me about it and I was honest with you. However, I was still a virgin until my sophomore year of college. Being Catholic played a big part in this. My parents are devout in their beliefs and drilled in us kids no sex until marriage. When I left for college, I fully intended to uphold their wishes. But I had so much freedom for the first time to do whatever I wanted. So when the opportunity presented itself I indulged, perhaps overly. He gazed at her thoughtfully. Nina, I need you to understand I do have a past life, but I was never some callous degenerate who took advantage of women or engaged in immoral sex acts, as Lourdes suggested. If you are worried I might have commitment issues, don’t be. I came to my senses and realized I was self-destructing. Also, I wanted the type of relationship my parents have. My dad’s illness played a key role in my decision to settle down. But I rushed things with Lourdes. My intentions were honest, but she wasn’t the right one for me. You are, and I cannot imagine my life without you. So the only other things you should know about me are the important stuff, like how much I love you and can’t wait for you to become my wife.

He kissed her until any other questions she might have asked faded away at his touch.

♦♦♦

Nina stirred to wakefulness with a persistent throbbing between her legs. She felt as though something humongous had rammed her repeatedly. Then she remembered last night.

Oh yeah.

She was positive there were bruises and friction burns outside and in her vaginal area. Unable to close her thighs, each time she tried grimaced in pain. Josh lay beside her on his stomach. His head turned away from her, he slept as though he had no cares in the world. Temptation motivated her to slap him hard on his muscular backside, exposed for her viewing pleasure. However, she refrained, as he’d worked late into the night making love to her until exhaustion claimed them both.

Damn I’m sore, she heard Josh say groggily.

She had awakened him though she tried hard not to. When he rolled over and faced her, she gasped in horror.

Oh my gosh, your face! One hand covered her mouth to suppress another outburst.

A large purple bruise sat between his eyes, resembling a mythological Cyclops. If this wasn’t bad enough, when he flipped over to his back, she saw more bruising on his arm and thigh where she’d kneed him.

Baby, I’m so sorry. Geesh, she didn't know her own strength. Josh looked damaged.

Still half-asleep he blinked his eyes, wondering why she was so upset.

What’s wrong?

Maybe you should go look in the mirror.

At this, he looked down past his midsection to his thigh. Damn, he groaned, moving to the edge of the bed and sitting up.

Can I get some ice or a compress for the bruise for you? I’m so sorry, she lamented.

Both hands raked through his hair at her heartfelt remorse; he pulled her by one leg to him.

I'm all right so stop apologizing, okay? Anyway, I got what I deserved for roughly handling you. It was an attempt to make the situation seem less serious.

Nina shook her head at his statement. She disagreed.

No Josh, this is awful, and I feel worse. I am so sorry, but I went into defense mode. My reflexes took over, and you haven’t even seen your head yet. Her teeth tugged at her lower lip.

Convinced she might be overreacting, he stood and walked to the bathroom to survey the damage in the medicine cabinet mirror. One glance told him her reaction was spot-on. He indeed looked battered.

Remind me to never piss you off again, he said over his shoulder as she walked up behind him. The sheet covering her nakedness was tucked securely underneath her arms.

My fault for coming at you like I did. I should have known better on all accounts. How am I gonna explain this though?

His fingers gingerly touched the offended area.

We can stay in until the swelling goes down, Nina offered.

Josh frowned, raised the lid on the toilet, preparing to empty his bladder.

What are you doing? Shocked at what he was about to do made her forget his bruises. Now she felt scandalized and tried to turn away.

Um, taking a leak. He laughed at her sense of propriety; after last night there should be no need for modesty. Get used to it. Besides, you’ve seen all of me.

Well yes, but this takes a little more getting used to.

He grabbed her arm when she tried to exit the room.

Where are you going? Josh teased, pulling her against him and holding her there.

I’m trying to give you some privacy.

She also tried unsuccessfully to block out the sound of urine emptying into the toilet.

Sweetheart, when we’re married you’ll be exposed to more than watching me take a piss. Better yet, when I’m old and feeble I might need you to wipe my butt too, he laughed. The fact that they stood in the bathroom together made her uncomfortable told him a lot about her.

I know but I’m not used to this. She gave no further explanation.

When Josh finished, he closed the lid, sat down on top and pulled Nina to his lap.

You never shared space with Alex? It was the last person he wanted to mention but he was curious as to their living arrangements.

Sure, we lived together briefly but we always gave each other privacy.

So during the entire time you two were together, you never saw him take a piss?

Of course not; we didn’t do those type of things.

What about showers?

No, and I need to pee. She squirmed uncomfortably.

Josh nodded in understanding.

All right go ahead. Promise I won’t watch.

He stood and moved back out of her way. A huge grin on his face gave her reason to doubt his sincerity.

Doesn’t it make you nervous having someone watch you while you pee?

She guessed not as he made no move to leave.  Unlike her, Josh had no issues with invading her personal space or pulling her into his.

Ever been inside the men’s bathroom?

With arms folded across his chest he stood there naked as the day he was born, calmly as you please, chatting casually about bathroom etiquette. Her eyes possessively scanned his body and slowly moved back to his eyes. A rakish grin was on his lips, as if he knew her thoughts. Yeah, that’s right. You are mine.

All the time.

She said this with a straight face and Josh stared at her with a ‘you'd better be joking’ expression on his. She was. The impish grin on her lips confirmed it.

The sheet Nina wore impeded the process. Letting it fall to the floor, she lifted the toilet lid and sat down to instant relief.

Anyway, most have urinals and if you’re in the middle of using one, don’t stop because another person comes and stands beside you. Maybe it’s a man thing, he finally said and noticed Nina searching around. Josh realized at once why and handed her a roll of toilet paper he’d gotten from under the bathroom counter. She stared at the roll of soft paper but, with the soreness between her legs, declined.

Females are always going off to the bathroom together; what are y’all doing in there?

Not watching each other pee. She gave a pointed glance in his direction. But many other things. Checking our hair, makeup, and adjusting various parts of our clothing.

Mm-hmm I see. Well, I’m about to personalize our relationship further.

He walked to the tub and turned on the faucets.

Will you take a bath with me? he asked so sweetly she could not resist.

I could use a long soak; my nether parts are sore.

Sorry sweetheart, if I was a bit rough last night, but I’ll be gentler next time.

He kissed her cheek, added some fragrant oil to the bath and stepped in. Once he settled himself in the tub he placed Nina in front of him.

She inhaled the pleasant aroma wafting up from the water.

Mmm, this smells incredible; what is it?

Not sure. It was a gift. I don’t use the stuff often for lack of time. But today turned out to be the perfect occasion with our combined soreness.

He demonstrated by rubbing her swollen genitals.

Joshua, will you stop? She emphasized this by removing his hand from between her legs.

He laughed. I’m trying to make you feel better.

Wrapping his long arms around her midsection, he kissed her neck.

You’re not the only one with battle wounds. Don’t think I’ll be able to sit for a week.

The warm water soothed and eased her aches.

You know, the best remedy for sore muscles is another workout.

He felt her relax against him despite his teasing suggestion.

As much as she hated to admit he was right, she agreed.

Whenever I overdid things dancing, I’d apply ice to all the tender areas of my body, and moist heat. The next day I’d be fine.

Yeah, I did the same after a long practice or brutal game. It’s a wonder I can still walk afterwards or my brain function properly after so many blows to the head and frame.

Nina glanced up at him. What position did you play?

Quarterback. One of the favorite pastimes in contact sports is bringing down the opponent by any means necessary. And I had my head cracked more than once—suffered a few concussions, too, as a result.

Ouch, Nina said in sympathy. You should’ve considered a sport less likely to give you brain damage or kill you. She kissed the object in question.

Josh gave a small snort of laughter, gathering her closer in his arms.

You don’t think about the dangerous stuff when you’re young and stupid. All my brothers played football too.

AJ too? she asked incredulously. He is so academically inclined I never figured him to play sports of any kind.

Josh hooted with laughter.

Don’t be nice, Nina, you can call him exactly what he is—a fat ass know it all.

Nina laughed too.

Not what I implied; besides, he isn’t fat but a bit fluffy around the edges.

You’re too sweet, baby, and I’m sure AJ will appreciate the compliment.

They had discussed the wedding last night but not in detail. Now was the proper time to bring the subject up again. Lifting her hand bearing the sparkly diamond, he kissed the palm.

I love you and the most important reason I prefer a short engagement is because I like us like this. Why don’t you and Aya move in now? He angled her face toward him to see her expression.

Are you sure? she asked but liked the idea.

I’m sure. We are tight on space but it’s a temporary situation until we find a bigger place. I want you with me always.

Nina’s sentiments mirrored Josh’s. Though one thing kept her from saying yes.

School is not out until the end of May. I would hate to disrupt Aya with such a short window of time. We can stay on the weekends. It was a good compromise.

Josh gave a long sigh of disappointment.

Not the same but I do understand the situation. All right. I’ll take it as long as we’re all together.

With this one significant detail settled, he moved on to another one.

When do you think we should tell the family about our wedding plans?

Guess we should do it right away, considering they’ll need to make plans too.  We could send out one large group text. She giggled but had a few thoughts of her own. How do you think your parents will react to the news?

Josh smiled confidently.

They won’t be surprised and I can say they will probably be more excited for us than we are. My family loves you.

She had heard him say this on more than one occasion.

I love them too. This made her think of his sister. Do you think Rachel is pulling her hair out yet? Aya and Em are two little spitfires loaded with energy.

Naw, she’s babysat far worse. Compared to the rest of the kids in this family they are perfect angels.

Well, I feel better now.

About those two or did you mean something else?

The water had turned tepid but also fulfilled its purpose.

Both, actually, and I’m hungry. Is there any more pasta left from last night?

Ah damn, he suddenly said. I forgot to put away the leftovers, but they might still be good. He hoped, though a hint of caution filled his voice.

Nina noticed this.

Umm, no. Not in the mood for food poisoning. What else we got?

Donut holes, a couple of cans of chili, ketchup, wine. Sound good?

She frowned.

What she needed was sustenance after a refreshing bath. In one motion, she stood and stepped from the tub in search of towels. She found several, took one and tossed the other to Josh, who had also abandoned the chilly water.

There’s a deli down the block; maybe we can get a couple of breakfast bowls.

Make mine muffins and fruit. Oh, and a huge cup of coffee, lots of cream, no sugar.

Sure you don’t want scrambled eggs and bacon? He needed a stick-to-your ribs kind of meal.

Nope. I’ve gained a few pounds and would like to be perfect for our wedding. She smiled at his amused expression.

But you already are perfect and as far as putting on weight I can’t see it.

Well, I can. It’s all the delicious food over the past few weeks, not to mention dessert. So I’m placing my fat butt on a diet.

Josh tossed his towel aside and grabbed a handful of her sculpted backside through the one wrapped around her body.

Sweetheart, I’ve never seen a more perfect ass—makes me wanna smack it, flip it,  rub it down. He grinned, flashing her a most engaging smile, deep dimples in action.

You are not even funny. But she laughed all the same.

The playfulness soon turned amorous as Josh removed the towel and pulled her against the hard plains of his body. His hands searched and found her core.

What about breakfast? The question came out as a whisper. The familiar throbbing between her thighs whenever he touched her this way made her breathless. Instead of answering the question, he lifted her into his arms and strode to the bedroom.

Breakfast can wait, Josh said, and Nina agreed.

CHAPTER TWO

All Is Well with My Soul

Manhattan is aptly called the city that never sleeps, its lights bright upon the backdrop of a twilight sky and an endless stream of movement down on the streets. Unlike the metropolis, Nina had most certainly slept the day and a good part of the night away. She awakened to a remarkable sense of peaceful quietness. Her man, she thought with pride, pressed firmly against her back gave her a strong sensation of contentment. Minus the rumbling in her belly. Pangs of hunger made her insides rattle and needed sustenance. When she tried to move out of Josh’s arms they reflexively tightened around her.

Where are you going? he mumbled.

To find something to eat. I am starving. Nina turned in his arms to kiss him.

Dark sooty lashes rested against his cheek; he was exhausted from their endless lovemaking. The knot on his forehead was almost gone but the area around the bruise remained purple.

Order pizza, he yawned, not ready to relinquish her soft body fitted against his.

All right, what kind?

Whatever you like is fine; I’m not picky.

From what Nina could tell he didn’t seem hungry either; she, on the other hand, felt a bit shaky from lack of food.

Well, you’ll have to let me go first so I can make the call. My phone is in the other room.

With great reluctance, Josh released her. She kissed him again on the forehead and slid from the bed in search of something to wear. She found one of his shirts and slipped it on before she left the bedroom. The aroma of food left out of the fridge for too long filled her nostrils as soon as she entered the living room. However, this did not diminish her hunger or mission. Spying her purse on the coffee table, she searched through its contents for her phone. An assortment of menus placed neatly in a basket under the sofa table caught her eye. This simplified the task of ordering the meal. Several restaurants, she noticed, offered services until the wee hours of the night.

Suddenly she wasn’t in the mood for pizza. It was Josh’s suggestion, not hers, anyway.

Let me see.

She sat on the sofa, legs gathered underneath her while she looked over one menu filled with wonderful things to satisfy her ravenous appetite. Her mouth watered. Yum, hot wings, nice and spicy like me, she giggled.

To balance the zesty treat, she selected a huge garden salad.

Hmm blue cheese or ranch—better make it ranch, she decided.

So much for her diet, guilt aside. She’d work the calories off later. What to get Josh? He loved cheeseburgers as much as she did. One of those for him, and fries.

The decision made, she dialed the number and placed the order. While she waited for the food to arrive tided up a bit and Frebrezed the stench of leftovers from the air. With order restored, Nina resumed her position on the couch. To keep her mind off an empty belly she switched on the flat screen. Nevertheless, all was well with her soul. Hearing footsteps, she glanced over her shoulder to see Josh, black hair mussed, which matched the sprinkling on his bare chest. The flat plain of his sculptured belly on full display dressed in baggy shorts, slung low on his hips, he padded barefoot across the hardwood floors. Even bedraggled, he was still hot.

Hey, he said coming to sit beside her on the couch.

Did I wake you? She’d tried to be considerate while righting the apartment.

No, I missed you lying next to me. To prove what he said was true he gathered her close to him. What’s this you’re watching?

Not sure.

Disinterested in anything but the man sitting next to her, Nina cuddled closer.

Our dinner—or breakfast, depending on how you look at it—will be here shortly, she informed him.

Good, ‘cause I’m starving and hungry enough to eat the leftovers, spoiled or not, he grumbled rubbing his empty belly.

You’re too late. I’ve already tossed them in the trash. It needs to go out soon, Nina added as a friendly reminder.

Josh looked down at her and smiled. I see you’ve already got this wife thing down, he chuckled.

A little. I’m practicing for later, she teased. One of Josh’s brows rose in challenge. Don’t worry, I plan to be a model wife, and I mean this in a good way, she assured him.

No worries, sweetheart. I don’t believe there is anyone else more perfect for the job.

He lowered his head for a kiss, but the buzzer announcing the arrival of their food interrupted him. Nina made a move to leave the couch and he stopped her.

You’re underdressed; let me.

His wallet lay on the coffee table. He took a couple of twenties out before he went to the door and opened it.

How’s it going? he said to the delivery person, who held an insulated bag which held their food.

It’s going, he replied in a less than cordial manner and glanced at the knot on Josh’s forehead. Got hot wings, cheeseburger, fries, garden salad with ranch dressing, he ticked off dully, confirming the order.

Is it all there, sweetheart? Josh addressed Nina over his shoulder.

Sounds right, except he forgot the soda, she said as if disappointed.

Josh swiveled back around to the door. You heard her, and watched while the man scratched his head in debate.

Guess this means I ain’t gettin’ a tip, huh?

He had the nerve to ask as if forgetting the soda were the reason he was not getting one.

No, you are. Josh handed him the cash and waited for his change. He noticed the man’s expression alter instantly at the prospect of getting something for lousy service on top of a rotten attitude. Once Josh received the food and his money in hand, he addressed him.

I’m always generous to those who do their job as if they love it and don’t act as if they are doing me a favor by providing a service I’m paying for, he said without the least bit of sympathy.

Dude, it’s been a long night; can’t you understand this?

Of course I can, but this doesn’t excuse your shitty attitude.

Yeah, all right, sorry, but don’t I get a tip anyway? he asked without any reservations whatsoever.

Already did and you should heed it well. Have a nice night. Josh took a step back and closed the door in his face.

Josh, have a heart, Nina scolded but accepted her share of the food when he returned to the couch and sat down.

I do, but I’ll be damned if I give my hard-earned money to some jerk. Oh, and toss the menu; we’re never ordering takeout from them again, he said, removing the cheeseburger from the plastic container.

Why? The food is delicious. Nina confirmed this as she licked peppery sauce from her fingertips.

Yeah, I know but I am not taking the risk of getting that asshole again; he might spit in our food next time.

She agreed. You wanna taste a hot wing?

The fact she munched on a celery stick to alleviate the heat scorching her tongue was dissuading enough.

No thanks, I can’t kiss you with blisters on my mouth. Are they really spicy? An irrelevant question as she fanned her tongue.

Is there anything to drink? Her mouth was on fire.

You need bread. Hold on, I’ll get you some.

She nodded and made blowing noises like someone in labor.

Fortunately, one loaf of French bread remained on the counter untouched. He returned with a sizable chunk and watched while she devoured it.

Better?

Much, and remind me to never order hot wings again. She abandoned them for the salad, drenching the veggies with dressing. Mmm, now this is so good, she said in contrast to her last statement.

Josh chuckled, Less spicy I bet. We’ll probably need to work off the meal with some exercise. His brows lifted in a teasing manner.

Full now, Nina placed the container on the table along with the remnants of Josh’s food, then climbed onto his lap. I’m all for it, she said, kissing his neck and exposed chest.

You do realize I was kidding. But he responded to the foreplay.

The loose-fitting shorts he wore revealed how much he enjoyed it and he didn’t protest when she aided him out of them.

The condoms are in the bedroom, he reminded her.

I want you like this. Her mouth pressed against his. Besides, you know how not to get me pregnant.

He did and positioned her over him, filling her entirely.

Oh, damn you feel so good, he moaned guiding her hips as she rode him with wild abandon. Josh had had her in each way but this one and thought he might lose control from the heat of her