Saturday, June 12, 2010

The Silver Circle



Touch the silver chain,
Precious links wound ‘round your neck.

Let your fingers stroke
The tiny silken circles.

The cool of metal
Against the warm heat of skin.

Each link is a word.
Forming thoughts.
Creating ideas.
Weaving stories.

What words do you hear?
“Once upon a time…”
“In the terror of the storm…”
“Look to the west, the sun is rising…”

Listen to your heart.
How does your story end?

Search, find the last link.
You know the one, sad but true.

Tired not broken,
Holding the silver circle.

Staying together,
Not willing to be destroyed

What are the last words?
I love you eternally.

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Incense




The stick is lit. Smoke takes to the air like a runner after the gunshot, but only for a moment does it run. With a sudden yawn, the smoke relaxes and begins to gently twist and turn. A floating spiral, on an upward path.

Scented smoke carries my thoughts, my memories, my spirit with it. I feel lifted, unburdened by physical things. My spirit calls out to my ancestors and to my God. Wings of gray take me to weightlessness. I am free. No pain, no sorrow. I am light.

I bend and arch in the currents. Smiling as I float in this new found space. Twisting, turning as I soar. My heart beats out a soft drum. It is an empty space as is my soul. I breathe deep; the smoke brings to me words from heavenly voices.

Warm air wraps around my body, across my skin and through my bones. Delicate webs weave me a staircase to follow. Exotic scent beckons to me. Grey wings pull my spirit higher. I feel peace. I am one with the elements of air, earth, water, fire.

A line of smoke rises and splits into two lines forming a pair of wings. They take flight and ramble in time as they play. Circling, twirling, weaving through memories.

The wings begin to fade, the scent lingers. I’m not ready. Take me with you, let me fly some more. The smoke moves as if in slow motion, not waving farewell but giving me a smile. Even when I can’t see it, the scent is there and I will be at peace. I know I am not alone.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Excerpt Monday - Tormented Soul


Erick McAlister is known as London’s Most Dangerous Bachelor; he enjoys scotch, women, and spending time in the London underground club The Skunk’s Den. He’s never had a real relationship, women only want him for one thing but he desires more. When the one he vowed he would never toy with, Lynn Westmore, gives him an unexpected proposition, his life takes an enjoyable turn.


He pressed his back against the wall as he climbed the steps to the apartment and wondered if Andrew had felt as scared as he did. In his mind’s eye, Erick pictured the night Andrew as Puzzola sneaked into the same studio to seduce Elizabeth after not seeing her for ten years.

The studio was dark, and he carefully maneuvered around paintings and supplies. Approaching the living quarters, he heard Lynn in the shower. She’s probably trying to wash his touch away, he thought.

Part of him wanted to run but a greater part of him wanted to stay. He went over to the stereo and chose some music, then loaded the disks. He adjusted the sound and pressed play. After lighting a few candles, he settled into a comfortable chair.


Lynn stood in the shower and let the water hit her face and mix with the tears that fell. She was so ashamed of her behavior with Erick. She had become intoxicated with the excitement and the attention he showed her, she took the chance and told him that she wanted him. His rejection was devastating in the sense that she had now complicated their friendship.

She turned off the water, toweled off and applied a soft fragrant lotion over her body. Deep inside she stowed a secret fantasy of Erick sneaking into the studio as Andrew had done. She was envious of the intense passion her friends had for each other.

Removing the towel from her head, she ran a comb through her wet hair. If she just talked to Erick, god willing, he’d forgive her foolish actions. Perhaps he might put it off as a bad joke. Perhaps if she left for Wales the next day she could put the incident behind her

Lynn sighed; she just wanted to go to bed. She wrapped a robe around her, opened the door and heard the stereo playing. She hadn’t touched the stereo when she got in. Looking around, she saw the lit candles and a dark figure sitting in a chair. Her eyes widened, her heart raced, she held her breath for a moment, waiting.

“Did you use up all the hot water?”

“Erick?”

He sounded much like himself and not like the person she saw at The Skunk’s Den. Her anxiety diminished when she saw him lean forward in the chair. The candlelight softened his features, his hair fell into his eyes but he looked tired. She moved closer to him.

“What are you doing here?”

“I don’t know,” he rubbed his head. “I’ve been walking around thinking about what you said, what I said and…” he paused. “I’m sorry for being angry with you. I guess I put you on a pedestal just like you once told me not to do.”

“What?” Lynn was confused.

“I never thought you’d be one to use people; you’re different. Tonight I thought you were doing to me what women always do to me and I couldn’t bear putting you in the same category with them.”

“I’m sorry, Erick, for propositioning you like that. I put you on the spot and I hope I haven’t compromised our friendship.”

“I don’t think our friendship has suffered. We’re talking, aren’t we?” He stood up.
“I just want to know if your proposition still stands.”

Lynn wasn’t sure how to answer him. She watched him saunter towards her. He still wore his leathers and looked incredibly sexy. His body swayed in tune to the music with every step he took. She wanted to experience what she knew he was capable of giving. She looked into his eyes; they were black like the devil’s.

“Well, Lynn, does it?”

“Yes.” She could barely say the word.

“The way I look at it,” he stood in front of her and stroked her arm, “if you want to experience sexual freedom, who better to show you than me. Right? If we’re careful we can enjoy this and not hurt our friendship.”

“Like you and Reva?”

“You know about that?” He raised his eyebrows. “That ended before my sister moved to London.”

“Elizabeth tells me everything.”

“I see. Well, that was different. She was married.” He flashed her a smile. “You and I have known each other a long time and I think we could handle a little fling.”

“Oh, I see. We can simply be two friends taking pleasure in each other.” She smiled at him before she turned away.

“Exactly!”

“But with my lack of experience, what kind of pleasure could I possibly give you that another woman couldn’t and do it better?”

“Ah, but there is something you can give me.” Erick placed his hands on her shoulders and turned her to face him, then stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. You could give me your heart, he thought.

“You could give me the night. I want to wake with you in my arms in the morning. I haven’t been able to get that morning we shared out of my mind. I want to lie in bed and listen to the birds with you.” He caressed her cheek. “If you give me the night, I’ll take you to the stars.”

Lynn pursed her lips together, then broke out into a laugh.

“That was pretty cheesy, wasn’t it?” He laughed with her.

“Yes, it certainly was. I hope that’s not the best you can do. I’m afraid I
have high expectations of you.”
“You do, now?” His voice was low and raspy. “Tell me what you want from me.”

“I want to feel more comfortable with my sexuality. I want to experience more. What you do seems so easy but I’m not sure…” she stopped when he took her hands and led her next to the bed.

“What do you want from me?”
“I want you to teach me how to be passionate. I want to feel the intensity I’ve seen in others.”

“Elizabeth and Andrew?”

“Yes. And you.” She tilted her head. “I want you to take my breath away, suck the life out of me…”

Erick flashed her an evil grin and spun her body around. She felt his mouth on her neck as he pretended to bite her like a vampire. She sucked in her breath and laughed as she tried to push him away.

“What you want will take more than a one night stand, I’m afraid,” he teased her as he rubbed against her in tune to the music.

“Whatever it takes.” She smiled up at him. “I’ll do whatever you ask.”

He stared into her eyes and lowered his mouth to hers. His lips brushed hers; he felt her heat. She slid her hands around his neck and he took the kiss deeper. He wanted her with desperation; slowly he untied her robe, ran his fingers up her belly and between her breasts. He pushed the garment off her shoulders onto the floor.
Holding her hands, he backed up to look at her. Self consciously, she dipped her gaze from him. Her dark damp hair fell in ringlets across her perfectly
round breasts. Her waist was small. He couldn’t resist touching the softness of her trimmed pubic area and found it incredibly erotic.

“What made you do this?” He knelt on the floor in front of her and began kissing her belly. “I like it.”

“I’ve done it since I was in India,” Lynn was obviously fighting for composure. “I tried many customs as I traveled on assignment and that one, I adopted.

“Hmmm,” Erick murmured as he parted the velvet folds. “I definitely like it.”

He heard the sharp intake of her breath as he touched her with his tongue. He wanted to please her like he had never pleased another. This experience had become personal and he wanted to make her happy. One hand slid up to her belly, the other reached around to hold her butt. He felt her hand grab his hair; the other gripped his shoulder. He kissed her intimately until she was writhing.

Softly kissing her body as he rose, he held her tight when he thought she would fall over. She gave him a small laugh when he looked into her face. As he placed kisses over her mouth and neck he felt her fingers untie his pants. Her hands stroked his butt, hips and slid into the leather. His eyes rolled back from the delight of her touch. Her mouth trailed down his neck, chest, across his stomach but he stopped her when he thought she was going farther.

He slipped out of his vest, kicked off his boots and lifted her in his arms to carry her to the bed. Holding her against him, he kissed her deeply as he laid her down. She propped herself on her elbows and sent him a smile he couldn’t resist. For the fun of it, he did a strip tease when he took off his pants. He laughed with her as he crawled onto the bed. He couldn’t remember the last time he laughed while bedding a woman. What a refreshing adventure this promised to be!

As he lay on his side, Erick took a finger and followed the outline of her face, her neck, and her breast and down her belly. He stopped to tickle her belly button and then pretended his finger was stuck. Lynn squealed and smacked his hand away. In retaliation he attacked her breasts with fervor. Alternating between the two, he took each nipple into his mouth, teasing her and losing himself in her scent. He could feel her rapid heart beat.

He ran his hand down her thigh and back up to stop at the center of her heat. Lynn arched her body and called out his name. His composure was gone with the way she said it. The desire to be inside her overcame him. He parted her thighs, cupped her butt with one hand and pulled her underneath him with the other. Iron hard and thick, he gently pushed himself into her.

She was wet and he tipped her hips to allow her to take all of him. A small moan escaped her lips. She wrapped her arms under his and placed her hands on his shoulders. As he felt himself fully embedded in Lynn, he was caught in a net of
emotions.

Erick began a steady rhythm of thrust and withdraws. Lynn responded to each movement with equal lust. With each kiss, he sucked the breath out of her with his raw passion. However, he wasn’t the hard, angry lover he promised he would be in the nightclub; instead he was a caring, thorough lover. Her whole body craved his touch.

He slowed and rose up to look into her face. She could see into the depths of his smoldering green eyes. Fire, hunger, desire. Her head went back as he coaxed her higher with slow calculated strokes and kisses on her neck. She wrapped her legs around his waist and felt his hand caress her thigh. His touch seared through any inhibitions she had left. Lynn was about to burst into flameswhen Erick stopped moving.

“Look at me, Lynn.”

She opened her eyes and looked into his. The devil peered from under lowered lashes. Candlelight danced across his chest and shoulders. He caressed her hair. She could feel him throb inside her, the inferno was building inside her; she couldn’t hold back.

She moved against him. Erick began to lose his resistance when he felt her squirm under him.

“You are mine,” he whispered in her ear.

He felt her contract as she arched her back and called out his name. He then unleashed his pent up passion and penetrated her until he exploded.

He rested his forehead on Lynn’s until he found the strength to move. He rolled to her side, kissed her tenderly then lowered his head to lie on her belly.

“Tell me what you are thinking.”

“It’s not what I expected.” She ran her fingers through his hair. “I thought you would be rough, evil, angry like you were earlier.”

“I couldn’t be angry with you.” He swept his hand over her hip.

“Are you usually angry?”

“Yes, I hate what I’ve become.” He sat up.

“Hey.” She rubbed his back. “You made me happy. Did I do anything for you?”

“More than you’ll ever know.” He lay back down next to her. “Do you realize I didn’t use any protection tonight? I’m so sorry, I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”

“It’s all right.” She touched his cheek to comfort him.

He closed his eyes and pressed his face against her hand.

“Other than the night you don’t remember, when was the last time you didn’t use protection?”

“Oh, God, it had to have been about seven years ago.”

“Well, it sounds like you have a good track record.” Lynn rolled onto her side to face him. “How about every time you’re with me, you don’t use it? I want you to have something with me that you haven’t had with anybody else.”

“Are you sure?”

“Do you trust me?”

“Yes,” he smiled before he took her in his arms. “My sweet Lynn.”

“Does it feel different?”

“Does what?”

“Does it feel different when you’re not wearing a condom?”

“Hmmm, I’m not sure.” His lips brushed hers. “I think we’d better do it again; then I can let you know.”

His voice was deep and sexy. Lynn didn’t oppose when he rolled her onto her stomach. Sitting up, he massaged her feet, calves and up her legs to her butt. It felt so relaxing, then erotic as he ran his hands between her thighs to coax her juices to flow. Soft kisses placed down the center of her back as he touched her with his hands made her wiggle with pleasure. She had never had sex twice in the same night so she was giddy with anticipation.

Erick moaned his approval and spread her legs apart. He covered her body with his. The sensation of his nakedness pressed against her back made her ultra sensitive. With careful, short strokes, Erick entered her. He slid an arm under her and pulled her to her knees. Lynn could feel every bit of his manhood as it plunged in and out of her. His hands held her breasts as he kissed the back of her neck.

Reaching behind her she felt his rigid legs. The muscles moved with every thrust. He pushed her higher and higher. When his hand left her breast to caress the swollen folds he was bathed in set her off. Her breath came in short gasps, then she cried out. She felt Erick’s climax shudder through him as he joined her.

They both collapsed on the bed. Without saying a word, Erick spooned Lynn and placed a possessive hand on her breast. He was utterly exhausted and looked forward to sleep. Pulling her close, he placed a kiss behind her ear. For the first time, he felt contentment and didn’t want to let go of his lover.

To buy Tormented Soul on Amazon.
Kindle Edition Special $5.99

Visit Mary's Website!

Once a month, a bunch of authors get together and post excerpts from published
books, contracted work or works in progress, and link to each other. You don't
have to be published to participate–just an writer with an excerpt you'd like to
share. For more info on how to participate, head over to the Excerpt Monday
site!

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

A Dark Cloud song


"I Close My Eyes"
(This is a song that took 3rd place in a national song lyric competition.)

They say there is an emotion;
It exists but only for a few.

(chorus) It has no name,
No words can describe.
I close my eyes,
I am filled.

Stronger than love,
transcending time.
It knows not birth nor death,
only existence.

(chorus)

Felt in the touch of your hand,
Lost in the darkness of my soul.
Heard in the heartbeat,
against my cheek.

(chorus)

Memories of skin on skin may fade,
the emotion continues on.
Thriving in the confusion,
hidden in the emptiness inside.

(chorus)

Never to leave,
but a part of me for eternity.
Hungry for more,
I will remain content.

(repeat chorus 2X)
fade w/ repeated "I close my eyes".

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Meet Erick McAlister



AKA: London's Most Dangerous Bachelor

Eye color:green

Hair color: dark blond

Height: 6'2" Physical Type: hard muscle, athletic

Tattoos, piercings, other details: none

Where he lives: London, England

Normal attire: suit for work, jeans & t-shirt other times

Facial or chest hair:clean shaven

Prefer male or female lovers: female

Prefer monogamy or multiple lovers: had enjoyed multiple but hoping for monogamy

Does he fight for the greater good or is he a rebel with (or without) a cause: rebel

Occupation: co-owner for McAlister Enterprise, an international multi-media group

Favorite hobbies/activities: women

Favorite color: blue

What he likes in a partner: honesty and innocense

Favorite guilty pleasure: Mac 'n cheese with frozen pizza

Favorite kink: sex in public

Idea of romantic evening: a night that doesn't end until morning

Greatest achievement: fixing up his sister with his best friend


Read more about Erick McAlister in Tormented Soul.

Buy the Kindle Edition for $5.99.

View the Video Trailer

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Happy Mother's Day

WHY GOD MADE MOMS
Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:


Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world
and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Thursday Thirteen - Romantic Movie Quotes



I'm a sucker for a good movie... can't help myself. Here's a list of some great lines.

1. "Death can not stop true love, it can only delay it for a little while."
- from the movie "The Princess Bride"

2. "I want you to get swept away. I want you to levitate. I want you to sing with rapture, dance like a dervish."
- from the movie "Meet Joe Black"

3. "The greatest thing you'll ever learn, is just to love and be loved in return."
Christian, - from the movie "Mulan Rouge"

4. "I'd rather die tomorrow than live a hundred years without knowing you."
John Smith, - from the movie "Pocahontas"

5. "A name makes no matter to me, as long as I can call you my own."
- from the movie "A Knight's Tale"

6. "When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with a person, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."
Billy Crystal, - from the movie "When Harry Met Sally"

7. "I would rather spend one lifetime with you - than face all the ages of this world alone."
- from the movie, "Lord of the Rings"

8. "Love is that can't eat, can't sleep, reach for the stars, over the fence, world series kinda stuff...."
- from the movie "Angels in the Outfield"

9. "Never knew I could feel like this, like I've never seen the sky before. Want to vanish inside your kiss and I love you until the end of time."
- from the movie, "Moulin Rouge"

10. "It's a wonderful thing, as time goes by, to be with someone who looks into your face, when you've gotten old, and still sees what you think you look like."
- from the movie "The Bachelor"

11. "A woman's heart is an ocean of secrets."
Rose Dawson; - from the movie "Titanic"

12. "The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more; that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds."
- from the The Notebook

13. "The hardest thing is loving someone and having the courage to let them love you back."
- from the movie, "Wedding Date"

Happy TT!

Cinco de Mayo


Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for "fifth of May") is a holiday that commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The date is perhaps best recognized in the United States as a date to celebrate the culture and experiences of Americans of Mexican ancestry.

Special events and celebrations highlight Mexican culture, especially in its music and regional dancing. Grab some friends and host a party or spend the night in with your honey. Prepare a Mexican meal, make some margaritas, throw a couple Mexican blankets over the couch, light some candles and create your own sensual adventure. Check local costume shops for Cinco de Mayo outfits and do some role playing or dancing.





For some amazing Margarita recipes check out The Best Margaritas of Texas.





Visit the Food Network for some yummy recipes to celebrate the holiday.



If you need help turning a hum-drum day into a Mexican fiesta you need a little help from CHEF AARÓN SÁNCHEZ. Sanchez is the Owner/Executive Chef of Centrico & Paladar as well as a Food Network Star & Cookbook Author Award-Winning Chef. Check out his website.













Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Tempting Tuesday



Let's see... how about Mexican Black Bean Pizza for dinner? Everybody needs a little spice added to life once in a while.


Recipe:
Ingredients

* 1 10-ounce package refrigerated pizza dough
* 1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro or parsley
* 2 tablespoons salsa
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon bottled hot pepper sauce
* 2 cloves garlic, quartered
* 1-1/2 cups shredded Cojack or cheddar cheese (6 ounces)
* 1/2 cup chopped red sweet pepper
* 1/4 cup sliced green onion
* 1/2 cup dairy sour cream
* 2 tablespoons salsa

Directions

1. Lightly grease an 11- to 13-inch pizza pan. Unroll pizza dough and transfer to greased pan, pressing dough out with your hands. Build up edges slightly. Prick generously with a fork. Bake in a 425 degree F oven for 7 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned.

2. Meanwhile, in a blender container or food processor bowl combine black beans, cilantro or parsley, 2 tablespoons salsa, cumin, hot pepper sauce, and garlic. Cover and blend or process until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides if necessary.

3. Spread bean mixture over hot crust. Sprinkle with Cojack or cheddar cheese, chopped red sweet pepper, and green onion. Bake about 10 minutes more or until cheese melts and pizza is heated through.

4. In a small bowl combine sour cream and 2 tablespoons salsa. Serve pizza with sour cream mixture. Makes 4 servings.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Excerpt Monday - Tormented Soul (Adult excerpt)


Once a month, a bunch of authors get together and post excerpts from published books, contracted work or works in progress, and link to each other. You don't
have to be published to participate–just an writer with an excerpt you'd like to
share. For more info on how to participate, head over to Excerpt Monday.


****************
Erick was standing in front of his mirror attempting to tie his armband with one hand. He thought back to the first night he and the artist Puzzola entered the club scene when they returned from Italy.

A wild reputation had preceded them to the Underground and many knew them. They accidentally dressed identically and by the end of the night were giving nicknames of ‘Good’ and ‘Evil’ because one shared the ladies, the other didn’t. On their next visit to the Underground they wore their matching costumes with different colored armbands. Several years had passed since then and Erick wondered if the time had come in their lives for a change.

He saw Duncan’s reflection as he entered the room. Erick flashed him an approving smile as he spun around to take in the young man’s appearance. His hair was worn loose and hung over his shoulders. He wore black boots, low cut black leather pants that laced at the crotch and a black leather vest over his bare chest. They decided to dress identically to look like bodyguards for Puzzola.

Erick walked over to him and tied a white leather band on his left arm and had Duncan tie his on his right. They planed on walking into The Skunk’s Den before the artist made his entrance and then stand at his side as the first crush happened. Just when Erick turned the stereo down, the doorbell rang.

“Ready, Duncan?”

“Let’s rock!”

************************

The driver held the door for them as they climbed into the sleek black Rolls Royce. Dance music was blaring from the speakers. Andrew greeted them with a rebel yell as they slapped hands. Elizabeth and Lynn giggled at their excitement. Erick sat across from Lynn. She wore a black leather bra, a black leather skirt that looked more like a loincloth and high-heeled boots that laced to just below the knee.

She sent Erick a wanton look and he almost lost his composure. He turned his head but couldn’t take his eyes off her. She laughed at him and pushed
on his leg with her foot.

“The ladies are definitely hot tonight.” Erick flashed her a devilish grin.

Elizabeth and Lynn leaned against each other and blew him a kiss. He pretended to catch the airborne kisses and put them on his butt. Erick leaned toward Andrew and flipped his vest open with a finger exposing a bare smooth chest. Elizabeth looked at her brother as she ran her hand over her husband.

“Looking buff,” Erick teased.

“Did it for tonight.” Andrew’s eyes rolled back as his wife ran her hand across his abdomen and kissed his neck.

Duncan noticed how Andrew was quickly distracted. He moved against his lady in a sexual manner, teasing her; she gave him a sultry smile in return. The dark man looked very intimidating in his leathers. He wore black leather pants that laced all the way up his leg, a black leather vest and a black leather armband. His bold stripe was out of control like the rest of his hair.

“You guys look dangerous tonight.” Andrew put an arm around his wife.

“We are your official bodyguards tonight,” Erick explained. “Two Good guys protecting Evil. I figured this would be a great way to thrust Duncan into the bowels of the Underground. What better way than to go into The Skunk’s Den ahead of you.”

“Very brave! I better not drink too much; I might not be able to tell you two apart.”

“Just remember, Duncan has the long hair.”

“I can’t believe this is happening!” Duncan didn’t attempt to hide his excitement.

“Erick, do you remember our first visit to the Underground?”

“Barely. We were so drunk.” Erick tapped Duncan’s leg. “We were your age and my brother managed to convince Tucker to let us in.”

“What was it before The Skunk’s Den?”

“Um, what was it?”

“Downstairs,” Andrew answered. “Tucker wasn’t very creative when it came to names.”

“When was the name changed?”

“When we bought it the second year after Puzzola was established.”

“I didn’t know Erick was involved.” Elizabeth was surprised.

“First thing I ever bought.” Erick smiled. “It has nothing to do with McAlister Enterprises.”

“Do you own The Place, too?” Duncan asked.

“No, that’s still Tucker’s. We bought The VIP club when he ran into some financial problems. He still owns The Place and runs The Skunk’s Den for us.”

“Cool!”

Duncan was amazed with his new friends. They were wealthy, famous, and powerful, but yet so normal at times. He enjoyed the constant banter between Andrew and Erick. He felt honored that they had included him in their night and couldn’t contain his excitement.

“A bunch of my friends were going to go to The Place tonight. I wonder if I’ll see them.”

“If you get bored with us, you can always go up to the nightclub,” Elizabeth said to him.

Duncan was impressed with the costumes Elizabeth and Lynn wore. They didn’t leave much to the imagination. Lynn looked sexy dressed in all black. The ladies wore matching leather bras. Elizabeth draped a shapely leg over Andrew. Her boots went past her knees; her skirt was so short he noticed her husband kept a possessive hand on her bare thigh.

“Duncan!”

He turned to face Andrew who had a dark expression on his face.

“Remember what I said about seeing your next birthday?”

“Sorry.” Feeling guilty for staring, Duncan looked at the floor.

“Duncan!”

He looked back over at Andrew. This time he dipped his head, raised his eyebrow and with an evil smile, directed his attention to his hand. Quickly, he lifted Elizabeth’s skirt to reveal a black satin thong. Duncan laughed with the artist as his wife playfully slapped him. Erick tapped him on his shoulder and pointed out the window. They had arrived. He could see a crowd waiting to get into the nightclub and spotted his friends.

“There they are.” He showed Erick.

Erick leaned over to Andrew, pointed out Duncan’s friends and whispered something in his ear.

“Let’s put on a show,” Erick said to Duncan as he led the way out.

The driver held the door as Erick stepped out, moved to the right and crossed his arms across his chest. Duncan climbed out, stepped to the left, and crossed his arms. Elizabeth and Andrew followed Lynn. Duncan could hear his friends calling to him but he kept a serious look on his face.

Tucker Tripp prepared the escort to The Skunk’s Den but Andrew stopped him. He glanced at Duncan.

“Let’s go say hello to your friends.”

Duncan smiled and led him over to the group. He introduced them. Andrew signed autographs and they were ecstatic when he ordered Tucker to take them out of the line and move them inside.

“Well, I think you looked larger than life in your friend’s eyes just now.”

“Thanks, Andrew.”

They walked down the stairs and through the hall to the heavy door leading to the Underground club. Duncan glanced at the black and white sign “The Skunk’s Den”. As planned, he and Erick entered together. The club was full of people and they seemed to recognize Erick and began to move toward the door. He noticed the murmur of the crowd as they looked back and forth between the two. He looked over the crowd and noticed the painting on the wall. He knew Puzzola’s work and made a point to take a closer look.

Puzzola entered and people pressed against them. He felt several hands slide over his body and jumped when he felt a woman grab his manhood. He threw Erick a glance only to see him with a smirk on his face.

As Puzzola made his way into the room, he and Erick were given a bit of breathing room. Erick motioned to head over to the bar.

“Behold, my son.” Erick struck a theatrical pose. “This is the kingdom of the skunk. In it, you are a prince. Anything you want, will be yours for the taking.”

“What are you talking about?” he laughed.
“You don’t have to pay for anything tonight, here or upstairs. Behave somewhat up there but down here you can do whatever or whoever you want. Anything you see going on here stays here.” He handed Duncan a drink. “Oh, if you put your drink down, don’t pick it up again. There may be drugs floating around.”

Just then a woman came up to Duncan and offered to take him over to Puzzola’s painting and show him all the little details. Erick laughed and shook his head as he moved through the crowd.

He saw a group of women and headed right into them with his arms up. They eagerly took the bait. He felt several pairs of hands and lips touching his body. He was back in his realm.

He downed his drink and took turns with each of the ladies. They moved in a tight swarm in rhythm to the provocative music. Each woman begged for him to kiss her, touch her. They returned everything he gave. As he kissed one, he’d be touching two. He didn’t know how many were touching him, but it was fun.
The smell of skin, leather and sex was enticing. It was like a feeding frenzy
and time went by fast. He managed to escape before they tried to release his member from his pants. With Lynn there, he wasn’t in the mood to do an orgy.

Just when he was about to break away he noticed Duncan walking toward him and motioned for the boy to enter the mob. He glanced over at Andrew and caught his attention to watch. Duncan walked into the middle of the group and found himself drowned with the affections of the wanton witches.

Erick ducked away and perched himself on a stool behind Andrew to
watch.

“That was cruel,” Elizabeth said as she slid onto Andrew’s lap. “You’re not going to leave him there.”

“He can handle them. Let him have some fun for a while.”

“Is that what it is? Fun?” He heard Lynn ask as she stood next to him.

“What would you call it?”

She slowly turned to face him. The black leather lion cloth hung to her knees, exposing her legs to the hip. A sultry smile spread across her lips. He saw need in her eyes.

“I guess I would call it, fun. I wouldn’t know.”

Erick couldn’t draw himself away from her gaze. He felt heat build up inside him as she stepped in front of him and dragged a finger down his arm. She crossed over to sit next to Elizabeth. He found himself very aroused and wanting her.

“Damn it.” He stood up with a rush and sought out a willing partner to relieve his frustration with.

Lynn watched Erick as he stormed off. He grabbed a beautiful brunette, spun her into his arms and kissed her hard.

Lynn looked around and noticed several couples disappearing into the shadows with them. Licking her lips, she wished she were one of them.

“You want to play that game,” Elizabeth leaned against her, “don’t you?”

“Yes I do.” She put her head down in embarrassment.

“It’s all right. Go and do it. This is probably the safest place for you to play. After all, when in Rome…”

“But I don’t know what to do.”

“He might be able to show you.”

Lynn looked in the direction Elizabeth pointed to a handsome dark haired man who was watching her. He began walking toward her; she rose to meet him. He wore a silver shirt with black leather pants. He didn’t say a word to her but slipped his arms around her and pulled her tight against him. He covered her mouth with his as he ran his hands down her body. It was shocking to her system but exciting. She didn’t try to stop.

They coasted into the shadows. His kisses tasted like wine. She ran her fingers through his silken hair as he kissed her neck. His hands were soft as they moved across her skin. He didn’t ignite the heat within her like Erick’s touch but the sheer thrill of the unknown made up for it.

He was incredibly good looking and seemed to have the sexual prowess she was searching for. When he pushed her back against a wall she raised her leg and wrapped it around his. The excitement was intoxicating.

Erick was aware of his surroundings and noticed Lynn swept into the darkness. He grabbed the woman that was kissing him and pushed her toward the couple closest to them.

“Here, have a threesome,” he said as he stormed off toward his sister.

“What the hell is Lynn doing?”

“She wanted to play.”

“But she’s not a player!”

“She is tonight.”

“How could you let her? She doesn’t know any of these people.”

“Erick, she’s my best friend and a grown woman who can do as she pleases.” Elizabeth glared at him. “If you don’t like it, then do something about it.”

As he stomped off he heard Andrew say, “This is going to be good.”

He pulled the man off her. “Lynn, what are you doing?”

The man looked at Erick.

“I’m not sharing tonight,” he growled and the man walked away.

“What did you do that for?” Lynn frowned at him.

“What do you think you are doing?” Erick repeated himself.
“I want to know what real passion feels like.” She leaned against the wall
and put her hands next to her head. “I want to be free. I want to lose my inhibitions.”

“Are you drunk?”

“No. I’m completely sober because I want to remember how it feels.”

“Shit!”

“I know it may not be the right thing.” Her head rested against the wall; she looked at him through slits in her eyes. “I just want to. I need to.”

Erick didn’t know what to do. She had her mind set but he couldn’t leave her to the wolves. They would devour her in seconds. He stood in front of her trying to figure how to get her out of the situation when he felt her touch his arm. Heat radiated through him. She moved her body next to his and looked up at him. In her eyes he saw a raw desire he couldn’t resist.

His hand moved over her bare shoulder to the back of her neck and he pulled her to him. His kiss was bruising, his anger boiled. She was making him want her. With her touch he lost control.

“Lynn, this isn’t right.” He tried to pull away.

“Erick.” Her words came out in a whisper. “Show me what it’s like.”

His heart beat as if it were about to leap out of his chest. Her arms wrapped around his neck, her fingers played with his hair. He felt her warm skin pressing against his chest. He wanted more of her; he couldn’t stop.

“Please, Erick, show me.”

“Show you,” he repeated as his hands touched every inch of her exposed skin. “Is it me you want, or will anyone do?”

“I want you. I have for a long time.”

His mind reeled. His legs shook when she placed butterfly kisses on his neck. Her hands ran across his chest and abdomen, then unlaced his pants and released him. Blood raced through his veins. Despite her inexperience her touch was gentle yet commanding as if she were taking control of the situation.

“Make me feel like I’ve never felt,” her breath caressed his ear.

“Here?”

“Anywhere.”

“Do to me what you do to them."

She had fallen off the pedestal he had put her on. She was ready to use him. His anger turned to fury but his body was coming alive with need. He spun her around and pressed the front of her hard against the wall with force. She moaned as he ran his hands down her sides and under her skirt. Firmly, he grabbed her hips and buried his face in her hair.

“I’m going to fuck you, Lynn. That’s all it is. I’ll violate you. I’ll penetrate you until I reach the soul of your being.”

He thrust his hips forward, pressing the head of his erection between her thighs. She gasped.

“Is that what you want?”

She pressed against him and moved invitingly. His hand moved around to the front of her, his fingers found her hot and wet. His tormented body demanded to feel her. He had never reacted like this. He found himself wanting her as if he were starving and she the food. She cried out as he caressed the softness she offered.

“I want to feel you from the inside. I want to posses you.”

The torment of her soft skin against his, her need for him, his hunger for her was too much to bear. He tried to pull away from her but couldn’t. Her auburn hair tumbled down her back; it felt so good against his face. His hardness lay against her thigh ready to be driven into her. His heart pounded, his breath came in pants.

As much as he wanted to continue he had to stop. This was sweet Lynn, his childhood friend. She was too good for what he wanted to do to her. He froze.

“What are you doing to me?” He growled in her ear. “What are you doing to us?”

He stepped away from her as if he were on fire and rushed out of the club.

Lynn sank to the floor in a heap. She felt humiliated but she refused to cry so she just stared into nothingness. Elizabeth came to her side and helped her up.

“What happened? Erick just stormed out.”

“I told him that I wanted him to show me what it’s like and he freaked. I was so stupid to think he’d ever want to be with me. Now I’ve just embarrassed myself to death. How am I going to face him?”

“I thought he would have jumped at the chance to be with you. I don’t get it.”

Lynn told her what Erick’s last words were to her. Elizabeth had no explanation except perhaps Erick had set a line around Lynn he refused to cross. Lynn held her chin high and acted as if nothing was bothering her as they
walked towards Duncan.

“Hey, you’ve survived your first night.” Lynn teased.

“Barely,” he groaned. “I took a break and went upstairs for a bit. I think I got more action and offers tonight than my mates have in a year. I’m exhausted.”

“Well, I think we’ll be leaving soon.”

Erick caught Andrew’s eye as he left the club and knew he would follow so he waited in the hall.

“What is going on?”

“I don’t know. This is nuts!” Erick ran his fingers through his hair. “Lynn! She’s making me insane. She’s in there telling me she wants me to show her what it’s like, driving me crazy to the point I want to show her!”

“And the problem is…”

“This is Lynn we’re talking about! Come on, she’s not that kind of girl! This is just wrong!”

“Open your eyes, Erick. She’s a real live person, not a perfect little doll to sit on a shelf. She wants to feel things that other people feel.”

“But…”

“What?”

“Damn it! When she touched me or kissed me, it was like bam! I didn’t want her to stop but I was losing control. Oh God, I wanted her! I needed her. I, ah… Don’t you see?”

“Oh.” Andrew raised his eyebrows. “This hasn’t happened before.”

“Right! God, you’re slow.”

“Well, what do you expect? It only happened to me when I was around your sister.”

“Oh, shit!” Erick turned around.

“OKAY So our sweet Lynn has her mind set to experience a bit of the wild side of life and she’s asked you to show it to her. She trusts you. Think of this… how would you feel if you don’t and someone else does?”

Erick responded with a growl and looked over his shoulder at his friend. Andrew made a point. He certainly didn’t like the idea of Lynn being in the hands of another sleaze like him.

“I think I’m going to walk home. I need some air. Take care of Duncan, will ya?”

“Sure. I think we’ll be leaving soon. I need to take care of my wife.” He grabbed his crotch. “Oh, by the way. You still have a key to your sister’s studio, right?”

Erick looked back at his friend and rolled his eyes before he slipped into the darkness of the night. He wandered around Soho for a while attempting to sort out his thoughts. He was full of feelings he didn’t understand. At one point he stopped back at the flat. Duncan had just returned. They exchanged a few words while Erick took a key off a rack next to the door and exited back out to the street. He couldn’t stop thinking about how sensual Lynn looked in her outfit leaning against the wall, inviting him to take her. She didn’t seem like the same person he grew up with, but was now commanding his attention. Her worldly adventures had given her a new bold attitude he liked; he just never expected her to proposition him for sexual favors.

He hated himself for wanting to fulfill her desires; he hated the idea she would seek out someone else even more.

In a daze, he found himself walking towards his sister’s studio. Her show was scheduled to open in a few weeks so the gallery was closed. Erick stood in the doorway and looked at the key in his hand. He closed his fingers around it and started to walk away. He thought of the morning he woke with Lynn at Hampton House and how good it felt. Perhaps they could settle some kind of agreement. He turned and unlocked the door. Quietly, he entered.

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