A Little Bit Naughty–out now!

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MBaM | AMAZON KINDLE

Resistance is no longer an option…

A Tahoe Nights story.

Faced with the annual family reunion in Lake Tahoe, Amanda Harding cringes inwardly like the awkward teenager she used to be, not the successful bookstore owner she is now. Once again she’ll be bombarded by questions about her dreadful status as a single woman. And, like always, she’ll feel the weight of her parents’ disappointment that their only child isn’t happily married and pregnant with their first grandchild.

As she relates her troubles to her good friend Leo, she’s shocked to the core by his offer to pose as her soon-to-be fiancé. Then all she can think about is getting tangled up in the sheets—and with Leo’s deliciously hard body.

Leo Prentice has always wondered what his quiet, bookish Amanda looked like beneath the conservative suits, but the prospect of wrecking their friendship has kept his dirty mind in check. Until their first fake kiss. Playing Amanda’s lover seemed like a win-win. But the little bookworm stirs a fire in him unlike any other woman.

Soon, the teasing touches and sensual looks are all too real…and not nearly enough.

——————————————————————————–

Product Warnings


This title contains a yummy construction man, a shy bookstore owner and a very naughty weekend filled with sizzling friends-turned-lovers sex.

MBaM | AMAZON KINDLE

Adult Excerpt:

He cupped her face in his palm. “You and I are going to share that bed, sweetheart. Are you okay with that?”

Forcing down the tremors his touch invoked, Amanda said, “There are two rooms.”

“I know, but I don’t want to sleep in an empty bed. Do you?”

Did she? What would happen if she slept next to Leo all night long? Could she keep her hands off him? She didn’t know, but one thing was for certain. She didn’t want to waste a single second of this trip. She had Leo to herself, and she wanted to know more about the sudden sparks flying back and forth between them. The only way to achieve that would be to act like a woman and not a silly teenager on prom night.

Feeling a little more confident, Amanda murmured, “I don’t want to sleep alone.”

One side of Leo’s mouth kicked up into a crooked grin. “Good answer, sweets.” He stepped back and dropped his hand. “Now, how about dinner? I don’t know about you, but I’m starved.”

He moved around her and headed toward the kitchen. Amanda took a few seconds to calm her racing heart. When she heard him call out to her, she smiled. For the first time in her life she was actually going to enjoy one of the Harding family reunions. Go figure.

Leaving the bedroom behind, Amanda went in search of Leo. She found him bent over, peering into the refrigerator. She licked her lips at the sight of his jean-covered ass. When he straightened and turned, Amanda’s cheeks heated. Had he noticed where her gaze had been?

“Your mom thinks of everything doesn’t she?”

Okay, so he hadn’t seen her eyeballing his butt. Whew. “Uh, yeah, pretty much.”

“She’s left us hamburger meat, hot dogs and there’s even potato salad in there. Looks homemade too.”

At the mention of her mother, Amanda relaxed a little more. Moving toward a cupboard, Amanda found two plastic cups, took them out and placed them on the little table in the center of the room. “Mother wouldn’t have us eating store-bought potato salad. In her opinion that’d be tacky.”

Leo leaned against the counter, as if content to quietly watch as she took out plates, utensils and napkins. It wasn’t until Amanda opened the refrigerator and took out two cans of pop that he finally spoke. “So, what are you in the mood for?”

You, she ached to admit. Instead she said, “How about hot dogs?”

“Sounds good to me.”

“There’s a grill out back, but that’s a lot of work and we’re both tired. How about we just nuke them?”

“That’s fine by me.” He pushed away from the counter and took her by the shoulders, turning her to face him. “In fact, how about you go take a nice long bath. I’ll get this.”

Amanda thought of the Jacuzzi and practically moaned. Massaging jets of hot water? Oh, yes, definitely what she needed to relax her frayed nerves. “Are you sure?”

Leo chuckled. “I’m not helpless, Amanda. I can microwave a few hotdogs without help.” Leo reached around her body and swatted her on the bottom. “Go. Relax and enjoy. Let me take care of this.”

Amanda stiffened. Leo had delivered a friendly little spank before. It didn’t mean anything. Except this time his hand had lingered a second longer than usual. And, Amanda admitted, she liked it. Too much. Unable to speak without possibly revealing how easily his touch affected her, Amanda silently and swiftly left the room.
A bath. That’s what she needed. A hot soak, some food to settle her rumbling stomach and a good night’s rest. Tomorrow she’d feel more like herself. As she stepped inside the bedroom, Amanda’s gaze strayed to their luggage. Why had she agreed to share the same bed? How in God’s name was she supposed to actually sleep knowing Leo lay mere inches away?

Crap.

***

Leo’s cock hardened. He’d knocked. Twice. He’d even called her name a few times. Entering the bathroom uninvited had been his only option. Hell, she could’ve drowned, right? What else could he do but check on her? As he stared at the bubbling water, Amanda’s head back, eyes closed, he knew a moment’s guilt. He should look away. At the wall, the sink, the damn toilet, anywhere but at his friend’s naked body, which, by the way, just happened to be barely covered by hot, bubbly water. He couldn’t really make out anything, he told himself.

Liar.

Pink. Bubble gum pink to be more accurate. Now he knew what shade her nipples were. And there went his cock, again. More of that and he’d have a friggin’ zipper print tattooed permanently on his dick.

“Amanda?” he called out, unwilling to wake the sleeping beauty, but much more of this and he wouldn’t be able to keep from reaching out and stroking something. Anything. Everything.

A slow smile spread over her face. “Hmm?”

Christ, that was a sexy look. “Uh, sweetheart, you need to get out of the tub now.”

Her eyelids shot wide, and she yelped. “Leo!” Slick, feminine hands covered round, firm breasts as water sloshed over the sides of the tub. “What are you doing in here?”

Quickly turning away, he rushed to say, “I’m sorry, but I tried knocking and you didn’t answer. I was worried.” Yeah, look away now, asshole, after you’ve had a good eyeful. “Uh, dinner’s ready.”

“I… You—”

“You’ll be right out. Got it,” he helpfully supplied.

“Yes,” she squeaked. “Right out. Yes.”

Leo left the room, and the slick, sleek goddess behind. It was no easy feat. In fact, he would have rather stood under a beehive covered in honey than leave Amanda in that moment. Damn, what he wouldn’t give to go back in there. To watch her rising out of the water. Little droplets streaming down her voluptuous body. She wouldn’t even need a towel—he could just lick her dry. Leo glanced down at his crotch and groaned.
“Christ, you need to chill, bud. She needs time.”

“What?”

The feminine voice had him stiffening, and not just his spine either. He sent up a silent prayer that Amanda was naked, that she’d decided to put him out of his misery after all. He turned slowly and then Leo’s hopes fell. She wasn’t nude. ’Course, the little pink tank top and black cotton shorts did wonders for her curves. His cock sure as hell approved. Large, round breasts and wide hips had his mouth watering. A bite, a suck, that’s all I’m asking. Is it so much?

With her hair wrapped up in a towel and feet bare, she looked sweet, adorable, innocent. He was none of those things. And it didn’t matter because she wasn’t going anywhere. Before the weekend was over he’d have her naked and in that great big bed. And he’d finally get to taste all that creamy satin.

Read Chapter One

Triple Dare

Heya, IHers. It’s been a while since I came and played on the blog. I’ve been in writing hell, tree-falling-on-house hell, snotty-nose hell ans generally argh-life-is-too-hard hell. But I’m back now and ready to share something with you all.

This is an excerpt from my erotic contemporary menage tale, Triple Dare, releasing January next year as part of Samhain’s Red Hot Winter antho (Yep, I wrote a menage. Still can’t believe it actually *grin*)

Anywho, this is the snippet. (But shhh, don’t tell my editor I showed you)

It’s unedited, so please excuse all typos and mistakes (I’m an atrocious speller *grin*)

Excerpt….

She licked her lips, the room’s rising temperature making her skin prickle. Or was that the layers of clothing she wore? Or the sight of Joseph and Rob with less clothing than her?

Damn, they were good looking.

And complete strangers. So why did she feel so safe with them?

Why was she just about to do the unthinkable with them?

Her gaze slipped to Joseph again, knowing he held the answer even if she couldn’t decipher it yet.

“How bout we help you with your clothing?”

Rob’s murmur tickled her ear and she started, more than a little stunned to discover he’d somehow moved to stand behind her without her even noticing.

Too busy staring at Joseph?

Warm hands smoothed up her back, over her shoulders. His fingers slid up the sensitive column of her neck, brushing at her nape before skimming back down to the neckline of her jacket. There was a slight tug and before she knew it, her jacket slipped from her body, falling to her feet in a crumpled heap of fluro-magenta.

She watched Joseph watching her, his nostrils flaring again, the muscles in his jaw bunched.

I want him to kiss me.

Rob’s hands travelled her shoulders, barely touching her. The slight caress of his palms on her arms through the thin material of her thermal sent a shiver up her spine and she pulled in a shaky breath, her nipples once again hard. Oh, God.

“C’mon, Joe,” Rob spoke against her neck, his lips warm on her flushed skin. “Don’t make me say it.”

Say what, Anna wanted to ask, but she couldn’t. The way Rob’s hands moved over her shoulders, her arms, down to her palms and back up to her shoulders again seemed to have stolen her words, a gentle caress that somehow still spoke of urgency.

Joseph swallowed, once, twice, his Adams apple working up and down his throat. And then he was standing right in front of her, so close she could feel his body heat seep into her. “You don’t have to, mate,” he said, holding her gaze with his honey-brown eyes. “Not at all.”

He lowered his head, brushing his lips over hers in a kiss that sang of such sweet hesitation her heart stopped for a still moment. Only to burst into fevered flight when he snaked his arms around her waist and yanked her against his body with a growl, his mouth crushing hers.

His tongue plunged past her lips, mating with hers. Battling it with possessive hunger.

So, there is an Australian battle after all. And I’m a part of it.

The surreal, absurd thought wafted through Anna’s head and she whimpered, curling her arms around Joseph’s neck to press her hips to his. His cock rammed against the flat plane of her belly, a rigid stiff pole not even remotely hidden by the bulk of his snow pants. Its size and width made her head swim, or perhaps that was the feel of Rob’s hands working their way down her waist to the band of own trousers.

“You have a fucking hot body,” he told her, his fingers working their way between her and Joseph until they dipped below the elastic band of her pants. “I saw it last night in the bar. Its lush curves and firm strength revealed by the tight jeans you wore.” He slipped his fingers closer to the mound of her sex, his other hand holding her hip as he pressed his groin to her ass. “The tighter t-shirt.”

Rob pushed his hips forward, his erection—as long and as impressive as Joseph’s—nudging the crevice of her ass cheeks through her snow pants. “Still,” he whispered against her ear, lips nipping her earlobe as he did so, “I think I’d like to see more of it.”

With a gentle but insistent tug, he pulled her back to his hips, his fingers moving to her waistband. Inching it down over her hips. Her thighs. “Oh, yes. I knew you would look like this.”

Joseph broke the kiss, stepping away from her a step to stare at what his friend had revealed. “Jesus Christ,” he said, the words choked. “So did I.”

She stood between them, her torso covered in a thin, shell-pink thermal, her legs bared to their hungry inspection. Rob stroked the back of her thigh, his thumb tracing a languid line over the curves of her butt cheeks. Her panties—skimpy and black—offered little protection from the slow contact and she let out a ragged breath, feeling her crotch grow damp.

Joseph’s nostrils flared again. “I can smell your desire, Anna.” His stare roamed her body, the thin space-age material of her top so stretched against her nipples it felt like a caress. “I can see it.” He raised his hands and took her breasts in each, rolling the pad of his thumb over her puckered nipples. The contact caused her bra—a silky little thing that was highly unsuitable for skiing and matched her panties perfectly—to scrape against each one and she hitched in another breath, gazing up at him.

“And I want to taste it,” Rob said behind her.

Joseph’s lips curled into a lopsided grin. “Me too.”

And now, just for the fun of it, here’s the inspirational eye-candy for the heroes…

Yum-O

This is Joseph Hudson, Times Australia’s Businessman of the Year, born sweetie and eternal romantic.

And this is Robert Thorton, Joseph’s best mate, marketing genius and all-round dare-devil.

Yum-E

A Snippet from “What She Craves”

Okay, folks. This time I have a little excerpt from my upcoming Samhain release, What She Craves. It’s the second in my Cape May series. It releases December 14th and it’s a HOT menage (m/f/m). I’m really excited about it!

I haven’t shown this one to anyone so please tell me what you think! 🙂

Unwrapping these gifts could get a girl in a world of trouble…

It’s Christmas Eve and Tory Jeffries doesn’t have a date to her friend Con Walker’s annual Christmas party. It’s always the event of the year, but the thought of going alone isn’t at all appealing. When her good friend Devon Mason lets her know he’s dateless as well and would be happy to escort her, Tory is only too grateful. Spending an evening with the bad-boy with the flirty smile always puts her in a good mood, but she never imagined she’d be spending the evening with Devon and Con both. In Con’s bed. Naked.  

It’s not the first time Con and Devon have shared a woman. But Tory isn’t just any woman. She’s always held a special place in their life. Now that they’ve had a taste of the little hellion, beyond the witty comebacks and ornery pranks, they want more. More of her tight body, her fiery passion, and uninhibited responses. Getting Tory past her misgivings is going to be a bit tricky though. Damn good thing they’re up for the challenge!

 

UNEDITED Excerpt:

The music changed and suddenly Tory wanted to dance. “Which of you is going to dance with me? Don’t make me look for someone else, I don’t feel like doing the flirting thing tonight.”

“I thought I made it clear you’re my date,” Devon chastised. “No flirting unless it’s with me.”

“Or me,” Con said, his voice low, a little rough.

Tory looked at Devon, then Con. She couldn’t tell if they were teasing or not. She didn’t want to know either. Instead she took another sip of her wine. Devon plucked the glass out of her hand and handed it to Con. “Come on, sugar. You can move those sexy hips all you want.”

As they went back out to the main room, Con following close behind, Tory’s mind whirled with the possibility that the two men were making a move on her. Could it be? Devon tended to flirt. It was just his way. Con not so much. So, what was up with them tonight? She started to change her mind about the dance when a man stepped in front of her. She recognized him instantly. Erik Masters. They’d gone out once. There hadn’t been anything wrong with the date, but the chemistry hadn’t been there and she’d avoided his calls after. While everyone else was dressed to the nines, Erik wore a pair of tight, black jeans and a brick red pocket t-shirt. He wasn’t necessarily a handsome man, his features were too rugged to be considered handsome, but he wasn’t hard on the eyes either. The ‘come and get it’ smile on his lips made her face go hot.

“Hi, Tory. I saw you arrive and hoped we’d get a chance to talk.” His gaze traveled over her body, giving her the once over before coming back to her face. “You’re awfully damn hard to miss in that pretty dress. A man would have to be blind.”

“Thank you, Erik. It’s nice to see you again.” Tory could feel Devon tense beside her and she could swear Con had moved closer behind. Heck, his entire body brushed against hers now. It wasn’t difficult to figure out that Erik was hitting on her, but why would that bother Devon or Con?

“Can I get you something to drink?”

“She’s here with me tonight, Erik.” Devon said, as he wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her in close to his side. She glanced up Devon and nearly swallowed her tongue at the lethal look he pinned Erik with. Wow, Devon’s expression was positively deadly.

Erik spared Devon a glance and shrugged, as if Devon were nothing more than an annoying insect, then zeroed in on her once more. “Would you care to dance with me?”

Her gaze darted to Devon. Yikes. She recognized the barely leashed rage easily. Tory looked back at Erik, surprised when he seemed unfazed. Which meant the guy was either suicidal or not quite the brightest of bulbs. Considering he owned a thriving concrete business, he wasn’t stupid. That left suicidal. 

“I’m sorry, Erik, but I promised Devon I’d dance with him.” She smiled, hoping to take some of the sting out of the rejection. “Thanks for the offer, though. It was very sweet.”

Erik nodded, one side of his mouth kicking up as he dared, “Maybe later then.”

As he made his way to the other side of the room, Tory peeked over at Devon. She noticed he stared at Erik’s back for what seemed like an eternity.

Devon’s blue gaze came back to her. “You seem to be turning me into a jealous idiot. The thought of Erik’s hands coming anywhere near your body just about caused me to land a fist in his face.” His eyes narrowed, as if bewildered by his own actions. She well understood, because she was every bit as confused.

“Erik and I dated once, remember?” She knew he remembered, because at the time Devon had told her she could do better. Still, she felt compelled to remind him.

“I remember,” he said, his voice low, hard.

“So do I,” Con said from behind her. “He was an ass then and he’s an ass now. I don’t know how he managed to get an invite to my party, but I sure as hell didn’t send him one.”

Tory turned her head and looked up at Con. His gaze, usually so cool, even remote at times, blazed so hot Tory felt seared clear to the bone. “Erik wasn’t an ass. We just didn’t click, that’s all. And you two are acting so strangely tonight. What’s going on?”

The men looked at each other, then back at her. Con was the first to speak. “We’re not acting, Tory. You’ve just never seen this side of us because we’ve kept it from you.”

She planted her hands on her hips and narrowed her eyes. “Oh, really? And what side would that be pray tell?”

“The lover side,” Devon blurted out. Con shoved him. Both of them looked way too satisfied with themselves. It pissed her off.

Tory stepped closer and poked Devon in the chest. “You aren’t my lover and neither is Con. We’re friends. So quit with all the chest beating and the innuendos.” She looked between the two of them. “I came here to have fun with my two friends. Not get mixed up in some convoluted delusion you two are suffering from.”

Con’s eyebrows shot up. “You think we’re delusional?”

“Well, what else could it be?” Her voice was rising and people were beginning to stare. She took a few deep breaths before continuing in a more reasonable tone. “My two closest guy buds are suddenly acting like a couple of lions on the prowl, and for whatever reason they think I should be the lioness for their little lion sandwich. No thanks.”

Con chuckled. “I don’t know about a lion sandwich but I wouldn’t be opposed to hearing a certain kitty purr.”

Oh, God. That should not have her pussy going damp with need, it really shouldn’t. Tory knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that she was way out of her element with Devon and Con. An image of the two men naked, pleasuring her, sprang to mind. It was forbidden and she instantly felt guilty for even allowing the picture to invade her mind at all. Instinctively she knew that Con and Devon would be nothing like the other men she’d dated. She’d always gone for the easy, staid sort of men. Con and Devon were bold, candid and insatiable when they got their hooks into something…or someone. Tory didn’t know what to make of this new situation.

“Dance with me.” Devon murmured, holding his hand out for her. “I want to get you in my arms, that’s all. I want to feel you against me. Just that, Tory, nothing more.” Hypnotized and unable to resist, Tory lifted her hand. Devon took it and tenderly kissed her knuckles. Tory let out her breath and allowed Devon to steer her toward the center of the room where several other couples danced to the beat of Bing Crosby. As Devon’s arms came around her, Tory looked to the left and saw Con watching them, a tender smile on his face.

“I can feel you trembling, sugar. Don’t think this to death. Just feel. That’s all, just feel.”

Feel? How could she do any less with Devon’s powerful arms surrounding her, embracing her in his warmth. He pulled her up against his hard strength and Tory knew Devon’s earlier words were nothing short of the truth. Tonight was going to be a night they’d never forget.

_______________

And of course the eye candy!

Also, don’t forget about the contest. I’ll announce the 3 winners on Saturday. Tomorrow is the BONUS contest. So, come by and see what you have to do to enter that one. The winner of the BONUS contest will also be announced on Saturday.  

a glimpse of “What She Wants”

So, for today I’m giving you all a peek at my upcoming (August 3rd)Samhain release. I hope you like it! 😀
Summer just got a whole lot hotter…

Summer Chase has already loved and lost once and she has no intention of going through that pain again. But when a hunky Camaro-driving P.I. shows up at her B & B looking for a room for the week, she sees something more than a hard-bodied guest. For the first time since her husband’s death, Summer’s sexual interest is awakening, and she’s not about to hit the snooze button!

Gage Knight is a P.I. in desperate need of a vacation. His impromptu trip to Cape May, New Jersey, seems just what he needs to relax and unwind. But when he knocks on the door of Chase’s Bed & Breakfast and comes face to face with sexy owner, Summer Chase, relaxing drops to the bottom of his to-do list. Now all he wants is a tasty Summer treat, and he plans to take his time, savoring the curvaceous beauty one inch at a time.

Question is…can she watch Gage drive off into the sunset when the week comes to an end?

Warning: This story contains a hard-as-nails, ornery, demanding, tattooed PI eager to please…a widow ready to get back to the business of living and loving…and the kind of hot summer sex that you just might want to bookmark for later.

And now for a never before seen EXCERPT:

“Damn.” Gage couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe. She was perfect. She was his dream woman and then some. Her breasts were large, firm, round pillows of creamy flesh. Christ Almighty, he could get lost for a decade playing with Summer’s bountiful swells. He ached to taste her rosy-tipped nipples. Lick and bite and suck until his heart’s content.

His hand reached out of its own volition and stroked over one turgid peak. She shivered, and he was lost. He stepped forward and wrapped an arm around her lower back and drew her up against his chest, pressing and flattening her pretty tits against his T-shirt, driving himself crazy with the feel of her. As he took possession of her mouth, Gage lost all sense of calm at the sweet flavor of her lips.

He drank in her moan of excitement and licked at her full lower lip. He’d thought about tasting her everywhere. Imagined it from the moment he’d laid eyes on the tempting beauty. Now she was here, in his arms, clutching at him with eager abandonment.

Slow the fuck down. She was trusting him with something special. Something she hadn’t given another man in two long years. The thought gave him a possessive kind of pleasure. He wouldn’t disappoint her. He would stroke and play, satisfy her every which way he could think to satisfy a woman. Knowing just how snug she’d be when he entered her the first time made his cock swell painfully.

“Open for me, baby,” Gage groaned against her mouth. She did as he commanded. He took advantage, slipping into the wet warmth, tasting and swirling his tongue over and around hers, sipping at her with a kind of crazy fever that went beyond anything he’d ever felt. When she whimpered and drew her arms around his neck Gage felt the last thread on his control snap.

Keeping his lips firmly against hers, Gage bent and hooked his arm behind her knees. Lifting her into his arms, he cradled her nude upper body close. He wanted her completely bare. He wanted to see all of her, from head to toe, so he could work his tongue over her, inch by slow delectable inch.

As Gage laid her out on the quilt and broke the kiss, he snagged her gaze. The warm whiskey shade had changed once again. Now they were dark, almost the shade of milk chocolate, and he could easily drown in their unruly depths. His jaw locked against the need to rip her shorts and panties down her legs and take her. Hard. Fast. To hell with being gentle.

He smoothed his palm over his shaven head and made one last attempt to take it slow, to make it good for Summer. As he watched, she licked her lips and shifted restlessly on the bed. The taut peaks of her nipples begged to be nibbled on. Her long, dark hair, the stuff of fantasies, spread out all around her, tucked beneath and partially covering at the same time. Gage loved looking at her, but he was going to enjoy touching her even more.

He grasped at the edges of his shirt and pulled it off. Then he moved to the waistband of his jeans, thrilled at the eager way Summer stared in wide-eyed readiness at his fly.

Before he gave in to her silent pleas, he softly demanded, “Take off your shorts. Real slow. Make me beg for it.”

Summer slipped a single finger beneath either side of her beige drawstring shorts and tugged. She wiggled, and the shorts slithered downward, baring a pair of yellow cotton bikini panties with black polka dots all over them. Yum. When she had the shorts down around her ankles, she kicked her foot outward and they fell to the floor.

Gage’s muscles tightened as he stood frozen, staring. “Christ, Summer, you’re so fucking sexy. I’m dying just looking at you.”

“Now you, Gage.” Her words feathered over him, bringing him out of his hypnotic stupor. “Let me see you.”

He shook his head, denying her request. “Those panties are cute as hell, but I want them gone. Let me see that pretty pussy, baby.”

Her chest rose and fell with her rapid breaths. The telltale sign proved to him that Summer liked his game. She was nervous, but turned on. Watching her capitulate to his orders drove his desire up another notch.

She pushed her slender fingers beneath the elastic of her panties and inched them down and off her long, shapely legs. His first glimpse of Summer’s thatch of dark brown curls, glistening with her arousal, would be etched in his soul forever. “Tasty,” he whispered. “A pretty treat.”

Within a heartbeat, Gage was on the bed beside her…

______________

Of course, what would a post be without a little eye candy? 😉

Tomorrow I’ll be back to talk about a few of my favorite romantic movies.  Oh, and don’t forget to leave me a comment. The contest is going on all week!

Also, be sure to check out the websites of each International Heat author (links over there –>) to read other excerpts from my books!

Friday Eve Snippet – Semper Fi

Today I thought I would share a little of Ben.  🙂 This is the first chapter and VERY unedited. If you read Semper Fi: Magnus, you got a peek at Ben. I hope you enjoy it. This is the one in the series I have planned where one person isn’t in the military. All the others, both the guy and girl will be in the military. So, this one’s tone is a little different. Plus, Ben and Mari know each other so there is some friendship there to start. This will still be a suspense story…just wait until you see what I have in store. lol

Thanks for stopping by!

~Jambrea

Chapter One

Maribeth O’Malley paused with her hand on the doorknob.

Something isn’t right.

She cocked her head at a noise coming from the other side. It was times like these she wished she’d listened to her brother and had that peephole installed. The rustling sound came again and the knob turned in her hand.

What the hell?

She backed away and looked around to find a weapon. The only thing close was an umbrella so she grabbed it and waited. It seemed like hours, when seconds later, someone stepped through the door, she closed her eyes and swung the umbrella like a bat. It made a nice swooshing sound, then whack when it connected and a thud when the person fell. She opened her eyes and her jaw dropped.

“God damn it, Ben! How many times have I told you to knock!”

“Well shit, Jellybean, if you’d lock your door, I might just knock.” He looked up at her from the floor, rubbing his head.

Mari shook her head and put her hand out to help him to his feet.

“When are you going to realize I’m not a kid anymore and stop calling me by that ridiculous nickname?”

Secretly she liked when he called her Jellybean, but she’d never let him know that. Lusting after her brother’s best friend probably wasn’t the best thing she could do, but she couldn’t help it. She’d been in love with the man for as long as she could remember and he never even noticed she was alive.

Mari thought things might go differently after Mag’s wedding. The dance she’d shared with Ben had been wonderful, but he ran off right after. This was the first time she’d seen him since the reception.

“What did you hit me with?”

Ben still rubbed his head and she chuckled at his hurt expression. She also noticed that he’d ignored her comment about the nickname.

“An umbrella, I couldn’t find anything else.”

“Just wait until I tell Fin.”

“You leave my brother out of this and what are you doing here anyway?”

“I’m taking you out. Go get dressed, Jellybean.”

“Why me? Isn’t Fin home?”

“He’s out on assignment.”

“Shoot, that’s right. I forgot he was delayed. He’s due back any day. Can’t you wait?”

“Nope, I just got my orders; I’m off to Iraq day after tomorrow.”

Shit, it was bad enough when Fin went on assignment, but to have Ben leaving too, ripped her heart out.

“How long?”

“It’s supposed to be a month hitch, but you know how that goes. So go, get dressed so we can paint the town.”

“Just where are you taking me?”

“It’s a surprise.”

“I need to know how to dress. And I can’t stay out too late. I have school tomorrow.”

“I thought you were on summer break?”

“I will be, in a couple weeks.”

“You know, when I was in school, our librarian was a troll. I don’t think your students know how lucky they are to have a hot librarian.”

She grinned at him before turning around to go to her room.

“You think I’m hot?” She said over her shoulder.

Ben smacked her ass, “Go get dressed.”

Mari paused for a second to take in this new playful Ben. Maybe tonight would be her chance to show she wanted more from him than friendship. With that thought in mind she went to raid her closet for the right outfit.

Ten minutes later she walked out of her room to find Ben at her bookshelf looking at old pictures of the three of them. Growing up, Ben and Fin did everything together. She always stayed on the side lines. It wasn’t until she went to college that the boys let her into their little group. She didn’t date much and that could be because the two of them ran off any guy interested in her. Mari shook her head at the memories.

“You ready?”

Ben turned and the look on his face was priceless. His eyes widened and he sucked in a breath.

“You aren’t wearing that, are you?”

She looked down at herself, “What’s wrong with what I have on?”

Mari had on a form fitting white tank top that ended at her belly button, showing off the loop she’d gotten pierced there last summer on a dare from one of her friends. Her jeans were black and fit just right and she’d topped it off with a pair of sparkly red heels.

“What is that?” Ben pointed at her belly ring.

“I got my belly button pierced. It isn’t a big deal. Are you ready to go or not?”

“Do you have…ah…anything else pierced or tattooed?”

“That is for me to know and you to find out.” Mari winked at him and headed out her door. She made sure to put a little extra wiggle in her walk. Ben Davies was going down.

Mari waited by Ben’s truck, he didn’t take long to catch up with her. She stood by while he opened the door for her, always the gentleman.

“Now will you tell me where we’re going?” she asked after Ben settled behind the wheel.

“No and I want you to close your eyes. Like I said, it’s a surprise.”

“I’m not big on surprised, Ben.”

“Do I need to blindfold you?”

She shivered thinking he’d be surprised at what she wanted him to do to her.

“Fine, they’re closed.” She huffed, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Brat.” He laughed at her.

Mari let her hands full into her lap. No way did she want him to think of her like a kid.

“Will you take a bribe?”

“Who do you think you’re talking to? I’m un-bribable.”

“Not even for—” she paused for dramatic effect. “a kiss.” She ended on a whisper.

The truck swerved, Mari braced herself against the door and opened her eyes.

“Hey, I told you to keep ‘em closed.”

“Try not to kill me and I will.” She closed her eyes again wondering what Ben had in store for her tonight. He always tried to shock her. She really didn’t care, at least they were spending time together. That was all that mattered.

She lost track of time and with all the twist and turns Ben took, she had no idea where they could be.

“Here we are.”

“Can I open my eyes?” she asked when she felt the vehicle stop.

“Not yet. Wait a second.”

She heard the creak as his car door opened then closed. When her door jerked out of her hands, she jumped until Ben’s hands guided her out of the truck.

“Okay, I’m going to open my eyes.”

“Wait! Not yet. You aren’t peeking are you?”

“No, just hurry up.”

Mari didn’t worry about tripping. She trusted Ben with her life. Was that music she heard? Maybe he was taking her to that new bar that opened up.

“Okay, open your eyes.”

She smiled and opened her eyes. Once they adjusted to the dark she looked around and then did a double take. Was that—could it be—no way, Ben had taken her to a strip club. Oh he was in so much trouble. Mari laughed as she imagined Fin’s face because she was telling him all about the evening. Well, maybe not all about, if she could get Ben to see her as something other than a sister. And who took their kid sister to a strip club.

“A strip club? I hate to tell you this, but I’m not shocked and you know I’m going to tell Fin all about this, right?”

“Now, you don’t have to tell Fin everything, plus, he knows you’re here.”

“What! No way would Fin be okay with this.”

“It was his idea.”

“Now you’re pulling my leg.”

Ben laughed, “No, I’m not. Do you remember Private Michaels? He’s going on his first tour so we’re having a night out. Fin suggested bringing you along, well more of a dare. He owes me fifty bucks.”

“He dared you to take me here?”

“Yes. He said there was no way you’d come with me. Plus, it isn’t like there are guys stripping. Are you complaining?”

“Hell no. Do you think they have bubble gum wine here?”

“Bubble gum wine?”

“Yes, you know, something pink.”

“What are we going to do with you? The guys are over at that table in the corner. Why don’t you go over and I’ll bring you a glass of wine.”

“Sir, yes, sir.” She saluted him and turned to the table. She recognized a couple guys from barbeques and parties her brother put together. She spotted Michaels right away. Such a baby face. She shook her head. She’d grown up a military brat and should be used to the horrors of war, but it hit her hard when kids of eighteen were shipped off.

Someone bumped into her and apologized. Mari nodded and continued to the table with a smile on her face. It was time to shine and send Michaels’ off with style.

* * * *

Ben reached the bar and shook his head. Bubble gum wine? He wondered if this was a passing phase. He hated the fact that he and Fin would both be out of touch. Not that Mari couldn’t take care of herself. Both he and Fin made sure of that. But if she kept doing stupid stuff, like leaving her door unlocked, she was going to get into trouble.

He placed his order and waited for his drinks. He looked over his shoulder to see Private Welsh step up.

“Colonel, we didn’t think you’d make it. Who’s the fox you came in with?”

Ben clinched his fist by his side before he decked the man for nothing more than stating the obvious.

“You will show some respect, if you know what’s good for you. That ‘fox’ is Captain O’Malley’s sister.”

“Shit. Sorry, sir, I didn’t know.”

“Just don’t do it again.” He gave the man a short nod and headed to the table his men sat at.

He needed to get his temper under control. He had no claim on Mari. He never had. No matter that she kept him company in his dreams almost nightly. She was off limits. Fin’s little sister.

Ben drew in a breath. Someone made her laugh and the pure joy enveloped him. His cock took notice of the way her head tilted back, her glossy red hair swinging around her long neck. He wanted to kiss her and draw her essence into him.

Bad idea, this was a bad fucking idea. Damn, Fin and his stupid dare.

Two hours tops and he was driving her home, dropping her off and finding the first available woman and fucking his brains out. Anything to drive her out of his head.

“What’s so funny?” He handed Mari her wine, stopping himself from calling her Jellybean. She’d kill him for using that in mixed company. It was a silly nickname, but it helped him to remember she wasn’t for him. A sister to protect.

Mari grinned, “Private Michael’s was sharing a story about a shower mishap.”

“Do I even want to know?”

One of his men sat next Mari and Ben kicked the chair and jerked his head, letting the man know he should move. He caught Mari’s eyebrow rising at the jester. He didn’t care. She was his responsibility tonight.

“Probably not.” Mari chuckled.

Ben noticed how his men had surrounded Mari and put her in the back, away from the action. Maybe having her here was a bad idea. The men were more subdue than normal. Usually there would be hooting and hollering with strippers draped over each man.

He turned to say something to Mari and noticed she had a dollar in her hand, waving it in the air.

What the hell?

Then she whistled. He looked away to see a couple strippers headed their way. This couldn’t be good. What the devil did she have planned?

Ben didn’t have long to wait. She pointed to Michaels’ and then pointed to herself. One of the strippers sat in Michaels’ lap and started to grind. The other had a big grin on her face as she crawled over the marines in her path to get to Mari. His heart stopped with the big breasted blonde settled into Mari’s lap.

Fuck, that is hot.

He groaned, but the music covered his sound. He couldn’t tear his gaze away from the erotic scene. His cock throbbed in his pants, trying to break free. He almost came when Mari licked her lips and winked at him. He couldn’t control his breathing.

She’s Fin’s sister, she’s Fin’s sister. God damnit, fucking, shit. So hot.

When the stripper rubbed her tits in Mari’s face, he kicked his chair back and raced for the rest room. No way could he stay and watch the two women grind against each other. He slammed into the room and headed for the sink hoping some cold water would cool him down. He needed to get laid. He thumped his dick, thinking the pain might help. It did nothing to stop his ragging hard on.

Ben looked at his reflection in the mirror. Idiot. He berated himself until he heard a knock on the door.

“Ben, you okay?” a soft voice inquired.

The tent of his pants had started to go down until her voice wrapped around him. This was almost worse than that dance at Mag’s wedding. He now knew how Mari’s body felt against his. Maybe it was a good thing he got called to go overseas. Space would be good. Give him time to get his head, the big one, back in order. His little head became a lost cause the minute he even heard her name.

It helped to think of the look on Fin’s face the second he found out Ben wanted to fuck his sister. That was the ticket. Think of his friend.

“Don’t make me come in there. What’s wrong?”

“Don’t you dare, Jellybean!” That’s it, put her in her nice unassuming place. Friends, that’s it. “Nothing’s wrong. I’ll be out in a second.”

“Alright. Don’t be too long, or I’ll make good on storming the men’s room.”

He knew she was good on the promise.

“Think of her as your sister.” It sounded wrong saying that out loud. She wasn’t his sister and his body knew it. Wouldn’t let him forget it.

Man up, Davies.

He nodded to himself and walked back into hell. More strippers hovered around the table, but Mari sat by herself. Her face pinched in a worried frown. She kept glancing toward him and biting her lip. He ached to sooth it with his tongue.

Well, that lasted all of two minutes.

Ben hesitated before sitting down beside her.

“Everything, okay?” she reached out to touch his arm and he closed his eyes.

“I’m good.” He picked up the beer he’d left on the table and drained it. “I need another drink. Be right back.”

He didn’t care that he was running away from the problem like a coward. Ben could stare down an enemy with no problem, but one look from Mari and he melted.

“You needing, soldier boy?” a husky voice whispered in his ear and a hand trailed down his body.

“Yes, Ma’am. A Bud Lite would be wonderful.” He moved out of her reach. No matter how much he tried to lie to himself, no one could take Mari’s place.

He was well and truly fucked.