Showing posts with label Tormented Soul. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tormented Soul. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Tempting Tuesday - The Arrangement

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.”

Monday, February 21, 2011

Excerpt Monday - Tormented Soul



BLURB:
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- 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. Just as he is beginning to find happiness, tabloids headline him, a woman from his past announces she’s expecting his child, someone is trying to kill him, and he finds himself questioning his relationship with the young courier he’s hired to teach him to ride his new motorcycle. Even though his life is in torment, he begins to believe in love, something he never thought he’d feel.

Unfortunately, Lynn doesn’t think Erick could ever be faithful to one woman, let alone be in love with her, so when she finds herself in love with him she runs. Erick falls into a spiral of depression, and it takes his brother and closest friends to bring him to his senses. When he finds out a magazine has rated him as the World’s Most Dangerous Bachelor, he agrees to do the interview only if Lynn is the photographer and he uses the opportunity to let Lynn know how he feels; he offers his heart to her one more time...


In this scene, Lynn and Elizabeth (Erick's sister) are having a "girl talk".


“I’ve wondered what it would be like to be loved by him. But he doesn’t
know a thing about love. As experienced as he is in sex, I’m afraid he may be lost
when it comes to the compromises, the give and take involved in relationships.
He’s been alone for so long I think he has become set in his ways. I doubt he could
remain faithful to one woman. He even says that he always gets what he wants,
and when he tires of a woman he walks away. I’m not sure if he knows about
sacrifice.”

“Sacrifice?” Elizabeth’s voice cracked. “What kind of sacrifice do you think
he made to help Andrew? Take one look at his relationship with his best friend.
That should tell you if he’s capable of being more than what his reputation states.
There’s a very lonely Erick crying for help in that arrogant body of his. Can’t you
see it?”

Lynn looked at her friend and saw tears in her eyes. Elizabeth loved her
brothers and had formed a special bond with Erick after her arrival in England. It
appeared Erick was even more complex than she thought.

“Elizabeth, I could easily fall in love with him.” Lynn couldn’t believe the
words came out of her mouth so easily.

“So why don’t you?”


Sunday, February 20, 2011

Sensual Sunday - excerpt


This is an excerpt from Painted Soul. Lynn was spending time at Hampton House with Elizabeth. Whenever Lynn visited, she slept in the room next to her friend, which also happen to belong to Elizabeth's sexy brother Erick.

The lead to this scene: Erick and friends arrive at Hampton House in the middle of the night. He was too drunk to notice there was somebody sleeping in his bed. When morning broke through the darkness of the night...




Lynn stirred slightly as she woke. Still somewhat in a dream state she felt warm arms around her. Slowly she crept back to sleep until the arms tightened around her.

“Wha’?” she sat up abruptly.

Erick groaned as his sleep was disturbed. His head was pounding. He opened his eyes to see Lynn sitting in his bed. She gripped the sheet to her chest. Her eyes were as big as saucers, a pillow crease on her cheek, her hair flying in several directions. She was the most beautiful creature he had ever seen.

“What are you doing in my bed?” Lynn stared at him.

“Your bed?” He casually propped himself on his elbow, catching the sheet as it slid to his waist, “Look a little closer at your surroundings, this is my room.”

He watched Lynn look at the soccer trophies, and other pieces of his memorabilia scattered about the room.

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t know you were coming. Elizabeth lets me sleep in this room when we are here alone because it’s closer to hers. I know she would’ve told me if she were expecting you. I hope you don’t mind.”

“You don’t need to explain. It’s ok. Actually, it’s kind of nice to think you enjoy sleeping in my room,” he flashed a wicked grin at her. “I’m sorry I stumbled in last night and scared you this morning. I certainly wasn’t in any condition to notice someone sleeping in my bed when I came in.”

Erick’s voice wavered when Lynn gave him a nervous smile. He struggled to remain collected.

“I wish I could be the gentleman here, but I’m afraid I can’t remove myself from this bed in your presence.”

“Why?” Lynn looked at him like a deer caught in headlights.

“Other than enjoying the position I’m in,” he let the sheet fall to expose a naked hip, “I don’t make a habit of exposing myself to my sister’s friends.”

Erick gave a low chuckle at Lynn’s gasp.

“Don’t worry I won’t eat you for breakfast. I won’t touch you, unless you want me to,” he looked at her under lowered lashes as he lay back upon the pillow. For a fleeting moment he thought he saw contemplation in Lynn’s expression.

“Come now, we’re old friends, are we not? After years of not seeing you, I never expected to find you in my bed.” He coaxed a smile from her and saw her shoulders relax. “When I was a kid, Elizabeth and I used to lie here together and play a game called Secrets. We would take turns sharing secrets. How about we play, I tell you a couple of secrets.”

“Yeah, sure.”

“Let’s see,” he rubbed his head, “until now, no woman to the best of my knowledge has ever slept in this bed.”

“I find that hard to believe,” Lynn snorted.

“Really, I’ve never brought anyone here. I always considered it disrespectful.”

“Okay. So now I’m the only one who’s slept in this bed.”

“Right,” Erick couldn’t help but flash a smile, “now for secret number two.”

“Oh, I’m on pins and needles.”

“This is the first time I’ve woke in the morning with a woman in my bed. I usually make a point to not spend an entire night with a woman.”

“I’m probably the first woman you’ve had in your bed that you haven’t seduced.”

“True.”

“So that makes three secrets. I feel honored with your openness, sir,” Lynn mocked. “Don’t worry, your secrets are safe with me.”

After a shared laugh, Erick touched her hand and felt a shock.

“Humor me Lynn, stay with me a little longer. I have to admit, it felt rather nice.” After a pause when Lynn withdrew her hand from his touch, he added, “I’ll behave. I’m too hung over to do anything except sleep more.”

She relaxed and laid her head upon his chest. He gently wrapped his arms around her. He desperately wanted to throw the beautiful woman in his grasp on her back and ravish her. But she was too good for him, she would never love a man with his reputation. He prayed she wouldn’t notice his rod and run away. Lynn felt so right in his arms, he wanted the morning to last forever.

“This is nice,” he said softly.

Feeling daring, Lynn caressed the smooth skin on his broad pectorals. She soon stopped when she heard a low groan escape from Erick’s lips. She melted as his arms tightened around her until her whole body was against his. She found herself wondering what it would be like make love to Erick.

Sadly, she thought, ‘he only sees women as toys, and I can’t compare to the beautiful women in his circle.’

“I can’t believe how long it’s been, I hope you can stay in England for a while.”

“I haven’t made any plans for a return trip yet,” Lynn inhaled Erick’s masculine scent. “I’m taking some time off after finishing a big assignment. But I did bring my cameras, just in case I find some inspiration. And I must admit I’ve needed some lately.”

“Maybe I could help.”

Lynn’s heart skipped a beat.

“There’s a place in the gardens I’ve enjoyed since I was a boy. I used to go there to escape and think about life and stuff. It’s a very beautiful spot. Maybe you’ll find it inspiring.”

“I’d like that,” Lynn was still in shock about being alone with this notorious lover, in his arms, in his bed. She had heard the rumors and saw the tabloid articles about him. He was touted as one of the world’s most dangerous bachelors. It had been said that he could seduce a woman with a whisper and take her to the highest peaks of ecstasy in the most unusual of places.

“Well, I’m sure you’ve heard, Michael and I are taking over McAlister Enterprises,” Erick was obviously trying to make small talk. “Believe it or not, I’m thinking of giving up the flat and looking for one in Kensington or even buying a house. You know, something a little more respectable. If you stay long enough maybe you could help me find a nice place. I mean, since Elizabeth will probably be too busy.”

“Wow! I can’t believe it, Erick McAlister wanting to be respectable.” Lynn remembered what Elizabeth said about Erick wanting to settle down, “next you’ll want a dog, a wife and kids!”

“Ah, my reputation precedes me,” he sighed. “To be honest, Lynn, I am trying to end my tom cat ways. If I wasn’t truly trying, you would be screaming in passion right now.”

Erick felt her tremble. Did the image he just put into her mind repulse her?

“Do you want to get breakfast now?” he tried to change the subject.

“No, not yet,” he was surprised by her curt response. Then after a pause she added, “I would feel honored to look at houses with you Erick. I’m pleased to see you are looking towards the future.”

“I guess I’m just trying to be responsible,” he chuckled.

“You have a nice laugh.”

“Thanks,” his heart melted with her voice as he felt her snuggle against him. He was overwhelmed with how right she felt in his arms. His skin tingled as she carefully draped her leg over his.

“Thank you for letting me hold you like this,” he spoke cautiously, “I haven’t cuddled like this since that old brown bear up there on the bookshelf was my cuddling partner.”

“Well, I’m happy to oblige,” Lynn closed her eyes and placed a hand on his belly, “I must admit I’m not used to feeling arms like yours around me. You’re strong enough to break me in half, but it feels nice at the same time.”

“You haven’t told me a secret yet in our game.”

“A secret? I don’t know what to say.”

“Are you afraid of me, Lynn?”

“No, well…. Honestly, part of me is, always has been.”

“Don’t be, I’ve already promised I won’t ravish you.” His heart pounded in his chest as he tried to remain under control.

“I’ve never been ravished.”

“Okay, there are two secrets, we’ll call it even. Now let’s talk of something else,” Erick grunted, “before my body hears any of this talk and starts a mutiny with my mind. My sister would have my hide if I… well, you know. You are a beautiful woman and a good friend. I don’t want to mess anything up, even though I’m tempted. Oh, no, I’ve said too much!”

“I’m glad you think so highly of me,” Lynn said, patting him. “But don’t put me on a pedestal, the fall is always hard.”

“Sounds like the voice of experience talking,” Erick put a hand on her shoulder.

“When I met Tad I thought we were soul mates. We were both photographers and our personalities were so similar. He was like the male version of me. We were best friends and put each other on pedestals built with high expectations that niether of us could ever fulfill.”

“What really happened, Lynn? I understand he still works for your dad and you’re still friends. Usually, after a broken engagement the parties don’t speak.”

“We were good at being friends and lousy at being anything more. We found out we had too many similar interests, including other men. When I found out he preferred men over me, I was hurt at first but more relieved. I started to feel like I was engaged to my brother!”

“So he was gay, huh?”

“Yeah, kinda sucks doesn’t it?”

“Well,” Erick chuckled at Lynn’s forward but honest attitude, “look at it this way, you may have lost a boyfriend but you gained a girlfriend!”


I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post until midnight the 14th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day.

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

And the Winner Is....

Congratulations...............

DARKREADER

Who won a signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from Lonver's Lane. I need to hear back from you within 7 days or I'll award the prize to someone else.

Cheryl Lynne
who won some awesome prizes on the JustRomanceMe Valentine Blog Tour.
Savannah Chase Prize: Swirl glass pendant necklace and swirl glass earrings
Monette Michaels Prize: Download of The Virtuous Vampire
TL Schaefer Prize: Download from backlist
Mary Quast Prize: Signed copy of Tormented Soul & chocolate

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Thursday Thirteen - 13 Reason to Read Tormented Soul


1. The sex is incredibly hot!

2. Erick McAlister is sexy as hell.

3. Erick thinks he is a monster and doesn't deserve love.

4. Lynn Westmore is his sister's best friend; beautiful, pure, innocent, wholesome, someone he could never have.

5. Nobody is as loyal to friends and family as Erick.

6. He keeps a soft spot in his heart for his dog, Penny. What a guy!

7. The sex is incredibly hot!

8. The story includes heartbreak, blackmail, jealously, attempted murder, and lust.

9. Duncan is a kid Erick rescues off the streets of London who not only teaches him to ride a motorcycle, but makes him question himself sexually.

10. Despite having a tormented soul, Lynn makes Erick begin to believe in love.

11. London's Most Dangerous Bachelor.

12. Beauty and darkness of London.

13. The sex is incredibly hot!


I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day.

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Humpday Help - Sex Advice from Erick McAlister


Yep... that's a photo of me and the love of my life, Lynn. Hmmm... just looking at that pic makes me hard all over again. I might have to make this post short.

Hello everyone! Mary was so kind to let me do today's post. After all, I wasn't voted London's Most Dangerous Bachelor for nothing. I'm really not dangerous... except for in the bedroom. Well.... maybe not just in the bedroom....Any who! I've taken numerous women to hell and to heaven.

For guys:
My best advice for you is if you don't ever, ever spend the night unless you want more from the relationship. Always be honest with her and yourself.

Location is important. Up against the wall in an elevator can be exciting, but only if she's willing. Candles, wine and music is usually a sure bed. Just make sure you really know what she's "into" for maximum fun.

Now women like to be touched, it's the most erotic of the senses. Pay close attention to her reaction to your touch; she'll let you know with her breath and soft sounds if she prefers it gentle or rough. Touch her with everything and anything... fingers, feathers, food, silk, leather, tongue, whatever! Hold her, take control of her body so she can't pull away. Push her past her comfort level all the while prolonging the passion.

Keep her relaxed with a sensual massage all over her body and search for that mysterious g-spot. Kiss her longer and keep touching. Make frequent eye contact and whisper in her ear letting your breath caress her cheek.

Utilize all your senses and hers. I guarantee it would be a night you both would never forget.

For ladies:
If you want to show your man how much you love him, the best thing you can do is bed him well and often. Sex should be on a regular basis, but not a scheduled one. Spontaneity is just as important sexually speaking as it is in regards to romance. One way to give him some unplanned loving might be surprising him by being naked or dressed in something sexy when he least expects it. Another might be to jump on him the minute he walks in the door from work. Wake your man up before the alarm clock for some early morning loving, or call him to bed in the middle of the day. You get the idea.

Encourage your man's masculine inclinations. Sometimes, men just want to have their wildest, freakiest dreams come true. In the heat of the moment, whisper in his ear that if he wants to grab a hold of your hair or give you a little spank, he is welcome to do so (only if he truly is, of course).

Tell your man what you like. Do it for your own sexual satisfaction, but also to please him. Men truly want to please their ladies. It makes them feel good about being a man. They get great satisfaction out of making their women happy all of the time.

Be his candy, ladies, and you'll have the best sex of your life!





Hey, Mary is giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul (I'm the sexy hero of course) and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post until midnight the 14th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day.

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Excerpt Monday - Tormented Soul


EXCERPT 3
A white curtain billowed as a soft breeze blew into the room. The sound of bustling vehicles traveling the streets in Mayfair came through the window. Erick’s eyes fluttered; he couldn’t remember the last time he slept so well and wasn’t ready to wake yet. A warm figure stirred next to him. Suddenly the memories of the night came to him. A slow smile spread across his lips as he felt fingers run through his hair.

He opened his eyes and saw Lynn on her pillow facing him with the same smile.

“Good morning.”

“Hmm. Good morning,” he said as she caressed his rough cheek.

Under the covers he ran his hands across her naked body and pulled her closer. She snuggled under his chin. He sighed, full of sheer happiness.

“This is a little different than last time,” Lynn purred.

“How so?”

“I’m not afraid of you.”

“So you really were afraid of me that morning! Did you really think I was going to ravish you?”

“I was secretly hoping you would,” she admitted.

“Well, I’ll be damned!”

“But it was nice, anyway.”

“Yes it was, and so is this.” Erick stroked her exposed shoulder. “This feels so good. I could stay here forever.”

His stomach took the moment to growl.

“I think it must be around lunch,” Lynn laughed as she sat up.

Her hair had been damp when they went to bed and was now sticking up in many different directions. She had a pillow mark on her face. He watched as she tried to calm her mane with her hand. To Erick, she was the most beautiful creature in the world.

“Oh, I’ll have to wet it down again,” she groaned. “I think I’ll jump in the shower. Then we should think of getting something to eat.”

“Yes.” He rubbed his stomach. “I’d better shower as well. I’m sure I don’t smell like roses.”

“You’ve got that right!”

“Are you saying I stink?” He reached out grabbed her and began tickling her.
“I’ll wash you if you want,” she giggled.

“That sounds good.” He released her.

“Give me time to wash my hair and shave my legs.” She teased him with her walk. “Then come and join me.”

“OKAY I’ll go find some coffee to make.”

“You don’t drink tea?”

“Some days I want coffee. Today is one.”

“Do you always get what you want?”

“Most definitely.” He winked at her.


To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day.
Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Six Sentence Sunday - From Tormented Soul

Welcome to Six Sentence Sunday! This week I am posting a random six sentence portion of my sensual romance, Tormented Soul being given away this month.
He took slow, deep breaths as if to let a different side of himself come to the surface. He felt anger blend with sexual confidence. Seduction was the game he would play tonight. That was what they always wanted, to be seduced and ravished. He gradually raised his eyes to the mirror; they had to look of the devil. He said nothing as he walked out of his room toward the door with his friends on his heels.

Leave a comment below to enter a drawing to win a signed copy of TS and a gift from Lover's Lane.

If you participate in Six Sentence Sunday, please feel free to leave your link in the comments!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Thursday Thirteen - Quotes from Erick McAlister

1. Talking to his brother, Michael, on the phone. "Gotta have a Frisbee dog! That reminds me, can you send me a few disks? Penny used my best one as a teething toy.”

2. An email sent to Lynn. "Greetings from the Queen! I’m glad to hear everything is going well for you. I’m sorry if I overstepped my bounds having Michael check up on you. But it sounds like he would have anyways. I’m glad to hear your date was so fun. Wish I could have been with you, what a sight my brother must have been! Singing in front of people! I would have made him mess up! Enjoy your ski trip with him. Let me know if he gets out of line. I’ll fly to NY and take care of him myself. I hope you’re sitting down when you read this… I bought a motorcycle. Can you believe it? Remember when I told you I wish I could ride like the motorcycle couriers in London? Well I ordered one similar to the bikes they use! I’ll take you for a ride when you visit! Penny sends slobbery kisses. Erick."

3.“I bought a bike and I want to hire you to teach me how to ride it. I’ll pay
you well for your time and your silence.”

4.“I want to feel the freedom you feel. I want happiness. I hate what I’ve
become. Every woman I date wants only one thing from me. Not one can see past
my money or my reputation.”

5.“Oh, baby! Do me good!” Erick wrapped his arms around Andrew’s
waist as he pretended to pump him.

6. “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.”

7.“If this child is truly mine, he or she will be raised as a McAlister, in my
house. I’ll give you money all right, but for the baby. Not to run away!”

8.A real nerd, eh?” He whispered. “You must remember, I don’t just ‘do’
business in my office. I did you the other day. And I’ll do you over and over if you
come to my office again.”

9.“I canna sleep.” Erick lay down. “Every time I close my eyes I’ll see her
face, the pain, the tears. Why did I...? I knew I’d hurt her but I didn’t want to!
Especially like that! She hates me.”

10.“You don’t fight fair, Antonio,” Erick croaked.

11.“Andrew, what was done is in the past now. I never blamed you and never
will for what happened, or for my faults. I am responsible for what I’ve become.
We went through hell together and survived. We have the rest of our lives now.
You have Elizabeth; be happy. Live for your future.”

12. “Yeah, I get it.” Erick wiped his eyes. “My black heart is probably the
only virgin part on me.”

13. “No shit! I’m fucking angry! I can’t even fuck another woman without
seeing her face. I can’t stop wanting her. I’ll never have what I want. How can I
bring the broken pieces of my soul back together? He won’t let me.” Erick pointed
at his reflection. “The wretched beast!”

To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day .

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Tormented Soul


Blurb:
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.

Just as he is beginning to find happiness, tabloids headline him, a woman from his past announces she’s expecting his child, someone is trying to kill him, and he finds himself questioning his relationship with the young courier he’s hired to teach him to ride his new motorcycle. Even though his life is in torment, he begins to believe in love, something he never thought he’d feel. Unfortunately, Lynn doesn’t think Erick could ever be faithful to one woman, let alone be in love with her, so when she finds herself in love with him she runs.

Erick falls into a spiral of depression, and it takes his brother and closest friends to bring him to his senses. When he finds out a magazine has rated him as the World’s Most Dangerous Bachelor, he agrees to do the interview only if Lynn is the photographer and uses the opportunity to let Lynn know how he feels; he offers his heart to her one more time.


EXCERPT 1
“British Airways’ Flight 112 to New York will be boarding through gate sixty-five momentarily.”

Lynn quietly reached down and picked up her flight bag. She looked at the boarding pass in her hand. Funny that she didn’t feel like she was going home, but more like she was leaving home. This last trip had been so different from all the others and had taken an emotional toll on her. Perhaps an uneventful stay at her father’s would be just what she needed before returning to finish her photo shoot.

Erick McAlister reached out and adjusted the strap on her shoulder. He glanced toward the gate Lynn would be going through and noticed a young couple saying their good-byes. They spoke softly in between tender kisses, holding each other in a tight embrace. His black heart thudded in his chest. He wondered if that would ever be him; if he was capable of loving, or being loved.

His best friend, Andrew, had been a tormented soul like himself, and against odds found love and happiness with his sister, Elizabeth. Erick thought back to a time when he tasted the sweetness of comfort and contentment. Andrew had been determined to pay Elizabeth and Lynn a surprise visit at Hampton House and persuaded him and his brother Michael to join him.

Through Erick’s life, Lynn Westmore was the only woman to affect him like she did, and he didn’t like it. The night he was changed, he drank himself to oblivion to avoid his uneasy feelings. Unknown to him, his sister had put her best friend in his room during her stay. After retiring in a drunken state to his old bed, he woke in the morning with Lynn in his arms.

She had become a first of sorts. The first woman to sleep with him in his bed at Hampton House, the first to wake with him in the morning, and the first woman to share a bed and not be ravished. As tempting his lustful desires were that morning, he enjoyed the quiet conversation and her presence more than any sexual conquest. With Lynn he found a small piece of serenity he’d only dreamed of.

“Well, it’s almost time,” Lynn’s voice brought him back to the present. “I’ve been gone from the States so long; I hope I haven’t forgotten where I live.”

“Well if you can’t find it, Erick said, “you know you are always welcome at Hampton House. When did you say you will be back?”

“Some time in the spring; depends on the weather. I have a couple of locations I need to go back to. These books on English gardens are scheduled to go to press during the summer, so I have a time factor to work with.” She tilted her auburn head, her brown eyes sparkled, her smile teased. “Are you going to miss me?”

“Yes. I will.”

Lynn put her arms around his waist to give him a hug before she boarded. She felt his arms tighten around her and wondered what it would be like to be loved by him. She felt she could never compete with the beautiful women he surrounded himself with; he was just out of her league. She knew he was a man with worldly knowledge of women, a man capable of incredible passion; a man with such sexual prowess and confidence he would never find satisfaction in someone with her lack of experience.

Erick wanted the moment to last forever. He felt faint stirrings in his black heart. He had broken hearts and strained some marriages. Over the years his reputation grew as a lover, a prince of seduction and passion. To him, women couldn’t be trusted and were nothing but a sport. But he refused to get involved with Lynn because he couldn’t bear to hurt her. Lynn was too good of a person to be played with. He trusted her and her friendship.

He ran his hand up her back, along her neck and cupped her face. He looked deep into her eyes.

“Sweet Lynn,” his voice was a husky whisper. “These last few months have probably been the best as well as my worst. You have heard my secrets and you know of the monster that lives inside me, yet you’ve been a good friend to me. I want you to know I trust you as I would trust my own sister. Thank you.”

He caressed her cheek with his thumb. Her lips were so inviting. He remembered the shock he had felt when he kissed her on New Years Eve. Only a few days had passed and he still felt their heat. He dipped his head and brushed his lips across hers.



“Good bye, Lynn.” He pulled away from her. “Have a good flight.”

It took everything Lynn had to remain on her feet. On the inside, she shook head to toe, from his touch and his kiss. Looking into his green eyes, she saw sadness. She smiled as she bade him farewell, then turned toward her boarding gate.


What a lousy way to start the year, he thought. All alone. His best friend had married his sister over the holidays and they were honeymooning in the American Southwest. Lynn was gone. His father and brother would be leaving in a few days. Perhaps he should visit the Underground Clubs as soon as he returned to London and find someone to warm the cold winter nights. For some reason, the thought didn’t sound very appealing at the moment, but would surely change by the time he dressed in his favorite leathers and disappeared into the London night.




To celebrate, I'm giving away two special items this month.
A signed copy of Tormented Soul and a gift from my favorite store, Lover's Lane.

All you have to do is leave a comment on any post from Feb.1st until midnight the 14 th, the holiday for love... Valentine's Day .

Names will be placed into a drawing and the winner will be picked and announced on February 15.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Excerpt Monday

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! or click on the banner above.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Excerpt from Tormented Soul Chapter 1

“British Airways’ Flight 112 to New York will be boarding through gate sixty-five momentarily.”

Lynn quietly reached down and picked up her flight bag. She looked at the boarding pass in her hand. Funny that she didn’t feel like she was going home, but more like she was leaving home. This last trip had been so different from all the others and had taken an emotional toll on her. Perhaps an uneventful stay at her father’s would be just what she needed before returning to finish her photo shoot.

Erick McAlister reached out and adjusted the strap on her shoulder. He glanced toward the gate Lynn would be going through and noticed a young couple saying their good-byes. They spoke softly in between tender kisses, holding each other in a tight embrace. His black heart thudded in his chest. He wondered if that would ever be him; if he was capable of loving, or being loved.

His best friend, Andrew, had been a tormented soul like himself, and against odds found love and happiness with his sister, Elizabeth. Erick thought back to a time when he tasted the sweetness of comfort and contentment. Andrew had been determined to pay Elizabeth and Lynn a surprise visit at Hampton House and persuaded him and his brother Michael to join him.

Through Erick’s life, Lynn Westmore was the only woman to affect him like she did, and he didn’t like it. The night he was changed, he drank himself to oblivion to avoid his uneasy feelings. Unknown to him, his sister had put her best friend in his room during her stay. After retiring in a drunken state to his old bed, he woke in the morning with Lynn in his arms.

She had become a first of sorts. The first woman to sleep with him in his bed at Hampton House, the first to wake with him in the morning, and the first woman to share a bed and not be ravished. As tempting his lustful desires were that morning, he enjoyed the quiet conversation and her presence more than any sexual conquest. With Lynn he found a small piece of serenity he’d only dreamed of.

“Well, it’s almost time,” Lynn’s voice brought him back to the present. “I’ve been gone from the States so long; I hope I haven’t forgotten where I live.”

“Well if you can’t find it, Erick said, “you know you are always welcome at Hampton House. When did you say you will be back?”

“Some time in the spring; depends on the weather. I have a couple of locations I need to go back to. These books on English gardens are scheduled to go to press during the summer, so I have a time factor to work with.” She tilted her auburn head, her brown eyes sparkled, her smile teased. “Are you going to miss me?”

“Yes. I will.”

Lynn put her arms around his waist to give him a hug before she boarded. She felt his arms tighten around her and wondered what it would be like to be loved by him. She felt she could never compete with the beautiful women he surrounded himself with; he was just out of her league. She knew he was a man with worldly knowledge of women, a man capable of incredible passion; a man with such sexual prowess and confidence he would never find satisfaction in someone with her lack of experience.

Erick wanted the moment to last forever. He felt faint stirrings in his black heart. He had broken hearts and strained some marriages. Over the years his reputation grew as a lover, a prince of seduction and passion. To him, women couldn’t be trusted and were nothing but a sport. But he refused to get involved with Lynn because he couldn’t bear to hurt her. Lynn was too good of a person to be played with. He trusted her and her friendship.

He ran his hand up her back, along her neck and cupped her face. He looked deep into her eyes.

“Sweet Lynn,” his voice was a husky whisper. “These last few months have probably been the best as well as my worst. You have heard my secrets and you know of the monster that lives inside me, yet you’ve been a good friend to me. I want you to know I trust you as I would trust my own sister. Thank you.”

He caressed her cheek with his thumb. Her lips were so inviting. He remembered the shock he had felt when he kissed her on New Years Eve. Only a few days had passed and he still felt their heat. He dipped his head and brushed his lips across hers.

“Good bye, Lynn.” He pulled away from her. “Have a good flight.”

It took everything Lynn had to remain on her feet. On the inside, she shook head to toe, from his touch and his kiss. Looking into his green eyes, she saw sadness. She smiled as she bade him farewell, then turned toward her boarding gate.

What a lousy way to start the year, he thought. All alone. His best friend had married his sister over the holidays and they were honeymooning in the American Southwest. Lynn was gone. His father and brother would be leaving in a few days. Perhaps he should visit the Underground Clubs as soon as he returned to London and find someone to warm the cold winter nights. For some reason, the thought didn’t sound very appealing at the moment, but would surely change by the time he dressed in his favorite leathers and disappeared into the London night.



Links to other Excerpt Monday writers

Joining us this week:
Jaleta Clegg, Sci-fi (PG13)

Sable Hunter, Erotic Romance (R)
Ali Katz, Erotic Romance/Fantasy (R)
Allison Kelsey, Chick Lit (R)

Note: I have not personally screened these excerpts. Please heed the ratings and be aware that the links may contain material that is not typical of my site.

As always, our hostesses Bria Quinlan (PG13), Alexia Reed (R), Rachel Jameson (PG13) and Kendal Corbitt (R) thank you for stopping by!





Remember to visit during February. Every time you leave a comment you will be put into a drawing to win a signed copy of Tormented Soul and a special gift from Lover's Lane.

Monday, January 10, 2011

Tempting Tuesday - excerpt from Tormented Soul


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.

Tormented Soul is the second book in the Soul Series.

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

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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!

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

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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