Master Delacroix

Is now in paperback!! woohoo!!

To purchase click here

{{hugs}}

Trista

Updates and whatnots...

Now that Shot In The Dark is out, I'm working on the next book in the Mercenary series.

Mike and Carol's story.

It has a tentative release date of April 29th, so keep your fingers crossed I can hold to that schedule.

At the end of March I'll re-release an old title, Genie In A Bottle, but I've renamed it to The Genie. Cover artist is working on the cover as I write this and as soon as she's done I'll post it here.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!!

{{hugs}}

Trista

upcoming re-releases

I have a few more books to re-releases that I've gotten the rights back to.

Leave Me Breathless and Shutter will be first.

Then Master Delacroix.

I've also got a couple of new ones coming up in there as well.

Dangerous and The Master's Game.

It's looking like it's going to be a busy year..:)

Trista

New releases...

Declan is the next book in the Crime and Punishment series and will release sometime tonight. Yay!!

 Blurb:

F.B.I. agent, Declan Reed can’t believe his luck when he sees sexy Jillian Drance standing in the middle of his BDSM club looking like a lost puppy.

She agrees to one night only. She doesn’t have time for relationships and doesn’t want one. A demand that suits Declan just fine until he realizes that one night wouldn’t be nearly enough.

Jillian isn’t interested in a relationship with any man, much less a man who’s life is in constant danger. Unfortunately, she can’t stop thinking about him and the way his dominating personality makes her feel.

Just when Declan is starting to break down her walls, the serial killer he’s been after turns his sites on exasperating Dom. Can Declan catch the killer before the killer catches him?

**** 

While I'm waiting for Declan to publish on Amazon, I've started working on the next book in the series, Sweetest Sin.

Sweetest Sin will actually combine two series. The Mercenary Series and Crime and Punishment. A cross over of sorts..:)

I'll keep you posted on the progress, and in the meantime, if you haven't read the series here are the links to the books in reading order.

Topping the Domme 

Master Delacroix

Theirs To Share

Burning Submission

The Master's Den

Coming soon...

Finally after more than 2 years, I've finished the next book in the Entwined Fates series, The Master's Den.

Daniel Delacroix's story coming soon!!

The mob is embedded in Daniel's investment firm and he'll do most anything to get them out. But when the niece of the cartel leader using his company to launder money offers to help him, Daniel hesitates.

Nicole wants to see her uncle pay for his crimes, but getting Daniel to trust her enough to let her in is proving much harder than she thought. In truth, who could blame him, but Nicole doesn't give up easily.

Can the two work together before the clock runs out? Or will her uncle discover his niece's game and take THEM out?

                                               

Theirs to Share..:)

Now available...And check out that new cover!! :)

Coming soon...

Coming in May!!

Coming soon!!!

Coming soon!! Two For Tessa. My newest romantic suspense menage!

This story is stand alone but will loosely tie into the Social Prey series. If you like suspense, drug cartels, two hot brothers and hot kinky sex then this one is a must read!

Adult Education..:)

Check out my new cover. Adult Education...available November 1st.

Excerpt 10...Fantasy

To count down to the upcoming release of Fantasy Seduction, I''ll be posting several excerpts from Fantasy Resort. Although some of the characters appear in all the Fantasy Books, all titles are stand alone. Keep checking back for more...:)

Chapter Ten

“Jerrod,” Kira called as she stepped down into the wine cellar. The cool air made her shiver and she crossed her arms, hugging herself to stay warm.

“I’m over here, gorgeous.”

His voice came from the back, so she wove her way through the numerous shelves ‘til she found him in the far corner. He looked so cute in his casual sandals, loose-fitting tan pants and the thin white cotton shirt. He had it untucked, the ends covering his hips, but she didn’t need to actually see his ass to know he had a great one. With a sigh, she turned her mind from her husband’s hard body to what she needed to speak with him about.

“Have you seen Ethan?”

He glanced at her over his shoulder, his eyebrow raised in question. “No. Why?”

“I think you should. There’s something about him. It’s the eyes.”

A sideways grin twitched the corner of his lips. “Are they familiar or evil?”

Kira crossed her arms and glared. “I’m serious, Jerrod.”

Setting his scanner down, he turned and took her hands in his. The cellar was cold so his warm fingers felt good as they wrapped around hers. “What’s really bothering you, Kira?”

He brought her knuckles to his lips and kissed them, sending shivers of desire down her spine. It never ceased to amaze her just how crazy he could get her with a single touch. “Nicole and Ethan came by.”

“And?” he asked as his teeth nipped at her middle finger.

Closing her eyes, she tried to get control of the raging need he brought out in her. “I don’t know,” she sighed with a shrug.

“It’s just his eyes.” Jerrod raised an eyebrow, amusement shining in his sapphire eyes.

“Jerrod, don’t you think it’s strange that Jaimee died in an explosion and then Ethan was also injured about the same time? With burns no less. None of this seems too coincidental to you?”

“Honey, we were both at the funeral with Nicole. We saw them put his body in the ground. He’s dead.”

“Couldn’t they have faked that?”

“For what reason?” he asked with a shrug.

“What’s the reason that Ethan is here? They want the killers to think he’s still dead. Think about it.”

Jerrod let go of her hands and settled his fists on his hips with a sigh. “Kira, baby, you’re grasping at straws, and for God’s sake don’t say anything about this to Nicole.”

“I wasn’t planning on it,” she replied with indignation.

His warm palms rubbed up and down her arms, warming the flesh beneath his touch. “I’m sorry, baby, but we have to be realistic. Jaimee’s dead no matter how much you want him not to be.”

“I know I’m right about this. He has Jaimee’s eyes, and I can’t believe Nicole hasn’t seen it.”

“Maybe she has but unlike you…” He smiled. “She’s not prone to fantasy.”

Kira narrowed her eyes at him. “That’s not funny, Jerrod.”

He chuckled and tipped her chin up with his finger. “You know I love you. And for you, I’ll look into this. Okay?”

“Promise?” she asked, hope filling her heart. She was right this. She just knew it.

“I promise.” He softly kissed her lips. “But you’re going to owe me big time for this.”

“I always pay my debts,” she replied with a grin.

* * * * *

Jaimee drew Nicole to one of the three restaurants at the resort, determined to make her wait for the surprise he had planned for her. Several months ago she’d told him of a fantasy she’d always wanted to tackle, but had been too afraid to. After her abusive relationships, she wasn’t sure she could go through with it. But Jaimee was determined to go slowly and show her that being bound could be more fun than terrifying.

After ordering their meal, they waited patiently for the food. Couples all around them engaged in various acts, from just eating quietly to eating the food off each other or anyone else who decided to join in. The images were extremely erotic and if he made it through lunch without throwing Nicole on the table and fucking her, he’d be amazed.

Glancing down, he ran his fingers over the soft satin of her royal blue skirt. The muscles of her thighs bunched beneath his hands as he moved them higher, sliding her skirt up with them and exposing the smooth tan flesh of her thighs. “Are all the restaurants here like this one?” he asked as he fingered the soft tissue on the inside of her knee.

She cleared her throat and smiled slightly. “Like this one how?”

He looked around at all the couples and small groups. Only one was actually having intercourse. The rest were engaged in various acts of foreplay. Most incorporated food in some way, as well as the various toys that were lying around, and Jaimee came up with a few ideas of his own for Nicole. “All the…entertainment,” he said for a lack of a better word.

Nicole laughed and his chest tightened. He loved to hear her laugh and he hadn’t lately. “Most, yes. This restaurant is one of three, each features food from different sectors of the galaxy. There are a few times they require clothing, but it’s for something special and it’s rare. For the most part this place is just how you see it. Wild, free and totally uninhibited.”

The waiter walked over and placed crystal glasses before them filled with vigasinah. Jaimee picked up the glass and studied the neon green liquid. “Ms. Kira requested you have that with lunch,” the waiter offered with a slight grin then nodded toward the bar. Kira smiled and raised a matching glass of vigasinah.

Jaimee returned the salute, then leaned in to whisper to Nicole. “Now what do you suppose that friend of yours is up to?”

“She’s just being Kira,” Nicole said with a grin.

He placed a soft kiss on her temple before taking a sip of the cold liquid. Despite the cool temperature, it burned going down, warming his chest and stomach. Wow. Too many of these and they’d have to carry him back to the room. “What is this?”

“It’s a drink from Miganah. It’s pretty potent.” She leaned close and slid her fingers up the inside of his thigh. “And considered quite the aphrodisiac.”

He quirked an eyebrow, his interest piqued. “Really?”

“Really. It’s very popular here. A few of these and you could go all night.”

“Baby, I don’t need this to go all night with you.”

He playfully nipped at her lower lip before holding the glass to her lips. She opened, allowing the green liquid to enter her mouth and slide down her throat. Her smoldering gaze never left his and the love they felt for each other hung between them like something tangible, something they could grab and hold between them forever.

“Your appetizers, sir.”

The waiter placed a small plate before them, loaded with fried shrimp from Earth and stuffed halifrap from Meenus Prime. Reaching for one, Nicole took it and settled it before his mouth. Opening his lips, he allowed her to place it on his tongue, then he silently chewed as he repeated the gesture for her.

Feeling naughty, Jaimee slid his hand up the inside of her legs, cupping her warm, wet sex with his palm. Nicole moaned and shifted slightly, allowing him better access. Parting her labia, he slid his finger up along her slit, paying close attention to her sensitive nub.

“Jaimee,” she sighed.

Removing his hand, he licked at his wet knuckles. “Good, but I think this will be even better.”

With a mischievous smile, he took one of the small shrimp and pushed it just inside her vagina. Her eyes widened. “What are you doing?”

“Having a little of you with my lunch,” he whispered in her ear as he removed the shrimp and placed it on his tongue. He closed his eyes and moaned. “Mmmm. That’s nice.”

“You are so bad,” she giggled.

“And you are so wet. Do you want me, Nikki?” he purred in her ear as his fingers continued to fondle her sex.

“You have no idea,” she groaned.

The waiter refilled their glasses of the potent drink and Jaimee grabbed his arm, stopping him. Standing Jaimee whispered a request in his ear. The waiter nodded, then moved to fill his request. Nicole stared at him questioning. “You’ll see,” he said.

A few moments later the waiter returned and handed Jaimee a vibrator. Nicole’s lips opened into an “o” and then smiled. “Is that for me?”

“Yep. Stand up, my pet.”

“Here?” she asked with a grin, then glanced around.

“Look around you, Nicole.” He waived his hand with a chuckle. “What I’m about to do is tame compared to what else is going on. This place is a variable smorgasbord for the voyeur.”

She stood before him and straddled his thighs, giving him ample room to reach her pussy. He glanced around her hip and knew no one would pay them any attention. They were too busy fucking or licking their own partners to care what he and Nicole did.

His palms slid up the outside of her thighs and over her tight ass. Her skin was warm and soft beneath his touch, her flesh slightly flushed from arousal and the unusual drink they’d consumed.

Slowly, he moved the vibrator along her slit, teasing her swollen nub. She moaned and placed her hands on his shoulders for support. He could smell her sweet juices, could feel the warmth as it coated his fingers and his cock hardened instantly. It would be so easy to pull her onto his lap and bury himself inside her, but he wanted to make her wait and tease her to the point of pain.

With the head of the vibrator, he teased her opening, gently sliding it forward before retreating. She bent her knees slightly, trying to take it farther inside her. Jaimee pulled back, not allowing the toy to go too far.

“You’re such a tease,” she groaned as he slid the tip of the toy around her clit.

“I’m nowhere near done, baby. This isn’t for your pussy, despite how much you want it there.”

“It isn’t?” Her lower lips stuck out in a pout.

“No.” He shook his head, his lips twitching. Having lubricated the toy with her juices, he slid it to the tight rosebud opening of her anus. Her lips parted on a gasp as he gently slid the toy into place, filling her. Her fingers gripped his shoulders and her eyes slid closed as he slowly moved it in and out. Nudging her skirt up with his nose, he licked at her clit. Her whole body shuddered and her hold on his flesh tightened.

Pulling away from her, he settled her skirt back down and motioned for her to take the seat next to him, the toy still planted firmly in her ass.

Nicole could have killed him right here. How could he leave her hanging like that? Damn man. “Oh you’re going to pay for that,” she whispered.

“Do you need relief, my pet?” he teased.

“You know damn good and well I do,” she snarled, making Jaimee chuckle.

“Be a good girl and maybe before lunch is over I’ll give you a little.”

Every muscle in her body shook with the need to orgasm. God, she’d been so close, and judging by the smirk on his face, he knew it. Shifting, she tried to find a comfortable position with the vibrator inserted. The fullness only intensified her need to be fucked. Would he do it with the dildo in place? Just the very thought made the walls of her vagina spasm in pleasure.

The waiter set a steaming plate of food before her, but Nicole couldn’t eat. She was too turned on, too needy. Shooting a glance at Jaimee, she watched as he slowly chewed his food, taking his time with every bite. His lips spread into a sensual smile as he met her gaze. “Not eating? You’ll need your strength.”

Her eyes narrowed, making his grin widen. “You’re a wicked man.”

He laughed and leaned closer, placing a bite of Norgan veal against her lips. She opened them, allowing him to slip it inside. As she chewed, the spicy flavor of the meat filled her mouth and she sighed. “That is so good.”

“I know. It tastes almost as good as you do.”

She smiled as an idea came to her. “I think that maybe I didn’t start out with the right appetizer.”

“No? Is there something else you want?”

Jaimee watched her in amusement then pure lust as she settled between his knees and freed his engorged shaft.

“Now who’s the naughty one?” he purred as her tongue flicked across the purple head, licking away his salty pre-cum.

Closing her eyes, she slowly enveloped him in her mouth, taking his cock as deep as she could. His fingers buried in her hair and she relaxed her throat, swallowing him. He groaned and pushed his hips up, meeting her mouth in a fast rhythm.

Her jaws began to ache as they tried to accommodate his girth, but she didn’t care. She wanted to taste him, feel his cock jerk in her mouth as his seed spilled down her throat. With a moan, she teased the purple head with her tongue and moved her other hand to fondle his tight balls and the sensitive spot just behind them.

“Damn, Nicole,” Jaimee groaned as he jerked, filling her mouth full of his hot semen.

She licked at it, making sure to get every drop that spewed forth, then gently calmed him with slow strokes along his length.

With a grin, he tugged her up by the hair and claimed her mouth in a deep, wild kiss. Breaking the kiss, he nipped at her chin playfully. “I say we get this food to go.”

Excerpt 9...Fantasy

To count down to the upcoming release of Fantasy Seduction, I''ll be posting several excerpts from Fantasy Resort. Although some of the characters appear in all the Fantasy Books, all titles are stand alone. Keep checking back for more...:)

Chapter Nine

Nicole smiled as Jaimee gently nuzzled her neck, his teeth softly biting the sensitive flesh. They’d been in bed most of the day, kissing, talking, making love. This was the happiest she could ever remember being. Her Jaimee was back.

“I’ve missed you so much,” she sighed. “I still can’t believe this is all true. I keep thinking I’m going to wake up and realize it’s all been a dream.”

Jaimee cupped her cheek and grinned down at her lazily. “I’m real and I’m not going anywhere.”

His thumb brushed along her lower lip, and she nipped at it playfully.

“Minx,” he growled.

She giggled and snuggled closer to his warmth. “Are you hungry?” she asked. “We haven’t eaten since breakfast and it’s almost dinnertime.”

“I could eat. How about we go cook something in the nude?” he whispered in her ear teasingly.

She glanced at him and didn’t miss the wicked glint in his gaze. “If we do that, I may not be able to keep my mind on what I’m doing.” Her palm skimmed along his chest and down his abs. The muscles twitched beneath her touch. “I may be more interested in this.” Her fingers wrapped around his growing shaft.

“Baby, you can have that anytime you want it. Even if it means dinner burns in the process.”

She laughed and shoved at his shoulder. “What would you like to have to eat? And don’t say ‘me’ like you did earlier.”

His lips quirked and he wiggled his eyebrows. “Yeah, but that was one hell of a lunch.”

“You’re terrible,” she said with a grin.

“How about a Portakin dish?”

“Like what?”

“Vitany?”

She pursed her lips thoughtfully. She liked vitany. She just didn’t know how to cook it. Cooking was definitely not her forte. Dax had usually taken care of that at the bar or they’d eaten out. “How do you know how to cook vitany?”

“Actually,” he said with a smile, “Researching unusual dishes is one of favorite pastimes.” He shrugged slightly. “Or at least it used to be. I haven’t had much chance to cook lately.”

She raised an eyebrow in interest. “Really? You mean to tell me I knew you for two years and didn’t know that you could cook?”

“That’s what happens when you repeatedly come up with excuses for not coming to my place for dinner.”

Her smile faded while guilt and regret gripped her chest. Again she wondered why he’d put up with her as she studied his chest, unable to meet his stare. “I’m so sorry, Jaimee. I put you through so much. I should have trusted you sooner.”

“Don’t do that.” He lifted her chin with his finger, forcing her to meet his gaze. “What matters is that we’re here now. How long it took us is irrelevant. Okay?”

She nodded and traced his jaw with the tip of her finger. The day’s growth of stubble felt rough and scratchy, but she loved the feel. Especially when he rubbed it along her inner thigh. “I can’t wait to tell Kira you’re alive. She’s going to be as thrilled as I am.”

Worry clouded his expression, and she stiffened. “What?”

“Oh, honey. You can’t tell Kira. You can’t tell anyone.”

“Why?”

“You have to keep letting everyone think I’m dead. I wasn’t even supposed to tell you.”

“But it’s Kira and Jerrod, Jaimee. They wouldn’t…”

He put his finger over her lips to silence her. She gazed at him in confusion, not understanding why he wouldn’t tell them. “Promise me. As far as anyone is concerned I’m still dead. Not even Kira can know, Nicole.”

She agreed, but inside wondered how she would be able to keep it from Kira. They were so close, if anyone could see a difference in her it would be her friend. Jaimee placed a soft kiss on the tip of her nose. “Come with me, my love, and let’s cook dinner. The sooner we eat, the sooner I can have you for dessert.”

Nicole’s body warmed with that thought. Climbing from the bed, she followed Jaimee’s tight behind to the kitchen. His face may be different, but his touch, his personality, even his ass were the same. He was her Jaimee and her heart just couldn’t stop soaring.

Jaimee reached into the refrigeration unit and pulled out the fish filets he’d had sent over from the resort yesterday along with two bowls of softened butter. Rummaging through the cabinets, he found all the spices he needed and spread everything over the counter within reach. Turning to Nicole, he motioned for her to come stand before him. When she looked at him in question, he grinned. “I’m going to show you how to make it.”

He watched as she grabbed a clip and piled her thick chestnut hair on her head, exposing her long, graceful neck and shoulders. Her breasts stood out proudly beneath his gaze and her nipples hardened, making his cock jerk in response. He would never get tired of looking at her.

His eyes moved back to hers, so blue and sparkling with just a hint of mischief and delight. She was so beautiful and she was his.

She moved to stand before him, her back against his chest. He could smell her spicy scent and for a moment almost forgot what they were supposed to be doing. “Take the filets and dip them into the bowl of melted butter on the left.”

“What’s the one on the right for?”

“You’ll see.”

Her small hands gripped the fish, then dipped it into the dish of butter. He put his hands on her shoulders, silently watching her turn the fish. The golden liquid spread over the blue flesh of the fish and between their fingers.

“Now place it on the pan,” he whispered.

He could feel the tiny tremors under her flesh as his cock lightly pressed into the cleft of her ass.

“What do I do now?” she asked.

“Spread those three spices there. Put them on thickly, covering the skin completely.”

As her fingers brushed in the spices, Jaimee dipped his hands into the second bowl of butter then moved his hands to her breasts, massaging the firm mounds. “Rub the spices in just like this,” he whispered, showing her with his fingers on her breasts.

Nicole’s hands shook as she massaged the spices into the fish. Once finished, he pinched her nipples, making her gasp and moan. “Now we put it in the oven and let it bake for thirty minutes. While it’s cooking, I’ll clean this butter off you.”

Jaimee reached to turn on the oven, while Nicole slid the pan on the center rack. His cock throbbed painfully. He hadn’t intended to turn the cooking session into a seduction but he hadn’t been able to pass up those breasts.

The oven door shut with a bang, and she turned to him with narrowed eyes darkening in desire. “I believe you made a mess.”

His gaze moved to her breasts, and he smiled. She was right. He had made a mess. Her beautiful mounds were covered in warm butter. “Then I suppose I should clean them up for you.”

“Yes. You should.”

Grabbing her around her waist, he set her on the counter, putting her nipples at eye level. With deliberate slowness, he began to softly lick her breasts, his tongue lapping at the butter. Nicole moaned and squirmed as he cleaned first one breast then the other. He could do this all day. He loved her breasts and the way the nipples beaded beneath his tongue. He liked the sounds of her whimpers when he gently bit at the hard little peaks.

His lips slowly worked a path up her chest and neck, lingering just behind her ear.

“You’re one very naughty man,” she said with a slight tremor to her voice. “Your little cooking session has me so turned on I could scream.”

“Then scream,” he murmured. With a grin, he dipped his fingers in the butter again, then moved to her pussy.

The second his butter-laden fingers touched her warm, wet pussy, she moaned. “I like the way your mind works.”

“And I have a feeling your juices mixed with this butter will be heaven.” Two fingers slid along her slit, spreading the thick confection. Kneeling slightly, he spread her thighs and massaged her clit with his thumb.

With a groan, she fell back, letting her shoulders hit the cabinets behind her with a thud. He glanced at her, making sure she hadn’t hurt herself, and what he saw held him spellbound.

Her eyes were closed, her swollen lips parted. The pink of her tongue was visible for only a moment as it darted out to lick at her bottom lip. Her face was flushed in desire and when he increased the pressure to her clit her mouth dropped open a little more, letting out a soft sigh of pleasure.

“You are so beautiful,” he whispered, then leaned down to lick the butter from her pussy.

The taste of her milky juice gave the butter a hint of sweet and he moaned, sliding his tongue deeper into her channel. “Oh, yes,” she sighed and gripped his hair, pulling him closer.

He could feel the tiny throbs inside her vagina against his tongue. He knew she was close. Pulling away, he grabbed her around the waist and dropped into the chair behind him. “Hurry, Nicole. Take me inside that hot pussy of yours.”

Her legs straddled his, the mouth of her pussy resting at the tip of his cock. He gripped her waist and tugged her down his length. He squeezed his eyes closed as her vagina held him tight. She felt like hot lava, her pussy walls rippling along his engorged length.

He began to work them in a rhythm he knew would send her over the edge. Fingernails dug into the flesh of his shoulder and he leaned forward to bite at hers. God, she felt so good as her walls tightened around him further, milking the very life from him.

With a shout, they both came, her walls spasming around his cock as he spilled his seed deep within her. His arms shook with his release as they snaked around her and held her tight. Nicole’s warm breath fanned his neck as she slowly came back down from her release and the throbs against his shaft subsided.

“I love you, Nikki,” he whispered.

“I love your cooking lessons.”

He laughed and held her tight, never wanting to let her go.

* * * * *

Jaimee stepped into the lobby of Fantasy Resort and let his gaze travel around the bright and airy room. It was huge, with open doors and windows leading to the gardens and beaches beyond. Wicker furniture decorated the area and a massive fireplace took center stage. Nicole had told him that on more than one chilly night guests had gathered around the warmth of the flames for small, impromptu orgies.

Now the weather was warm and guests mingled in little or nothing, no one the least bit shy about touching each other or even themselves. One man sat in the corner, reclining in an oversized chair. Two women knelt before him, both of their lips and tongues working his cock. Jaimee’s twitched in response and his chest rumbled with a growl of aggravation. He’d spent two years at Fantasy Bar seducing Nicole and still images like that turned him on.

“Interesting place,” he mumbled in Nicole’s ear and a mischievous grin crossed her features.

“Anything you could ever want to experience is here. Just tell the workers at the front desk what you’re looking for and they’ll arrange it.”

Jaimee nodded toward an interesting threesome that had started on the far side of the room near the patio. “I wouldn’t mind that.”

A woman sat between a man’s legs, her back against his chest. His palms held her thighs wide while another woman licked at her pussy. “That man has a hell of a view,” Jaimee teased.

Nicole shrugged. “If you like that sort of thing.”

Jaimee studied her and didn’t miss the twinkle in her eyes. “So are you saying you wouldn’t like for some woman to lick your pussy while I watch?” He leaned in closer and her eyes darkened a shade in desire. “And then you could return the favor and lick her while I fuck you from behind.”

Her lips twitched adorably as she fought a grin. “Is that why you brought me here? For a threesome?”

“Maybe. Or maybe I had something else in mind.”

“Like what?” she asked, crossing her arms over her chest. Despite her movement, he didn’t miss the beading of her nipples beneath the thin material of her shirt.

“You’ll see.”

“Nicole,” Kira yelled and they both turned to watch her beautiful friend approach. She enveloped Nicole in a hug, and for a second Jaimee imagined the three of them entangled. But only for a second. He knew Jerrod would never allow it. He was extremely possessive of Kira.

“Honey, you look wonderful,” Kira said with a smile.

Nicole glanced at Jaimee and he shook his head slightly. He knew she wanted to tell Kira, but he couldn’t let her. It was too risky.

“You haven’t met Ethan yet, have you?” Nicole asked.

“No.”

Kira turned her sharp green eyes toward him and he inwardly cringed. The woman didn’t miss much and he could tell by the way she studied him with narrowed eyes that her mind was running full steam. “It’s nice to meet you, Ethan. Is Nicole treating you well?”

“She’s a slave driver.”

“I’m just doing what I was told to do.”

Jaimee snorted. “With relish.”

Kira’s gaze moved between him and Nicole. She knew something was up. “If you ladies will excuse me, I’m going to head over to the counter and see what this place has available that looks interesting.”

Nicole watched him walk away, her attention glued to his tight ass. She wasn’t able to meet Kira’s gaze and more than anything, she hated lying to her friend.

“You’re sleeping with him, aren’t you?”

Kira’s quiet voice was full of concern and Nicole spun to face her, wanting desperately to put her friend at ease. “It was a stupid thing, I know, and I’m not even sure how it happened. It just…” She stopped, unable to explain it.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes. I’m fine.” At Kira’s doubtful look, Nicole smiled and touched her arm. “I’m fine. I promise.”

Her friend nodded and Nicole turned back to Jaimee, who leaned against the counter, his gaze scanning the list of available fantasies. “He’s gorgeous, isn’t he?” Nicole asked.

“Yes. But there’s something about him. You know?”

Nicole swallowed. “Like what?”

“I don’t know.” Kira shrugged. “It’s probably nothing. I guess I’m just overly worried about you. I know how much you loved Jaimee and how hard it was for you to trust him.”

“And then I go and sleep with a complete stranger?”

Kira remained silent, staring as though she wanted to read Nicole’s soul. “If you need me, you know where I am.”

Nicole’s lips tilted slightly. “I know.”

Stepping closer, Nicole embraced Kira and placed a kiss on her cheek. Kira returned the kiss and brushed a piece of hair from Nicole’s eyes. That’s how Jaimee found them, and he smiled devilishly. “The two of you look good together. Shall I reserve a corner for the three of us?”

Nicole slapped at his shoulder, making him laugh. “Kira and I don’t do that with each other.”

“What a shame,” he purred playfully.

“Isn’t that just like a man?” Kira returned. “He sees two women being affectionate and automatically his libido skips right into overdrive.”

“Ms. Scollin?”

Kira smiled at the approaching desk clerk. “Yes?”

“Your husband has requested you join him in the cellar. He’s doing inventory and needs your help.”

“Sure he does,” Kira murmured, making the clerk grin.

“You love it and you know it,” Nicole teased with a jab to Kira’s ribs.

“I love him,” Kira said with a grin. Turning to the clerk, she added. “Give them whatever they want.”

“As always,” the clerk replied as she placed a small key onto Jaimee’s outstretched palm.

“What’s that?” Nicole asked once Kira was out of earshot.

“How did the chat with Kira go?”

Nicole placed her hands on her hips and narrowed her eyes. “What are you up to?”

His lips pursed as he thought for a moment. “Oh, about six foot three.”

“Stop,” she snapped.

Jaimee chuckled and pulled her along behind him. “Stop what?” he asked innocently.

“Evading my question. What are you up to?”

He stopped to face her, his eyes darkening and raking over her in a most sensual manner. One that made her heart skip in her chest. “I’m up to showing you a good time.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Now, how did the chat with Kira go?”

“It went well. Our secret is still safe, at least for now.”

“Until you tell her?” he asked with a sideways grin.

“More like until she figures it out on her own. She guessed I was sleeping with you.”

His fingers feathered down her back and over the curve of her hip. The heat of his touch scorched her through the thin material of her skirt. “It’s almost over. I promise. But what I have in mind for you this afternoon. Well…that’s just beginning.”

Nicole’s stomach flipped wondering just what it was he had in mind. After two years at Fantasy Bar, there wasn’t a whole lot the two of them hadn’t done, so she was intrigued that he could come up with something new. “Not even a hint?”

“Not yet. Maybe after lunch.”

Excerpt 4...Fantasy

To count down to the upcoming release of Fantasy Seduction, I''ll be posting several excerpts from Fantasy Resort. Although some of the characters appear in all the Fantasy Books, all titles are stand alone. Keep checking back for more...:)

Chapter Four

Nicole stared at the man bracing himself against the doorframe. Her heart ached for him. He was tall and slim, the width of his shoulders hinting at the once powerful frame that must have graced him before his accident. His hair was blond and thick, with just a hint of curl on the ends around his collar. His skin was pale, like the flesh of a newborn babe.

Jerrod had told her he’d been in a hospital for several weeks, so that would explain his appearance. She would need to get him outside. Sunshine would do wonders for him.

His full lips thinned into a tight line as he glared at Brett. She got the definite impression he wasn’t pleased with her being here. Would he be a difficult man to work with? That was fine, she thought with determination. She could be just as difficult.

Deep brown eyes turned back to her, and she swallowed back a feeling of déjà vu. There was something about his eyes that seemed so familiar.

“Ethan. Are you all right?” Brett asked.

“I need to talk to you, Brett. Now.” He pushed away from the door and slowly made his way to one of the bedrooms. She noticed a slight limp to his step and her heart tugged for him. Was he in pain?

“Excuse me, Nicole,” Brett said with a slight nod.

“It’s fine. I’ll just get my things from outside.”

Brett came into the bedroom, standing just inside the door. “Close it,” Ethan growled.

Shooting him a questioning look, Brett reached behind him and closed the door with a click. “What’s your problem, Ethan?”

Ethan turned on him with all the aggravation and anger he felt eating away at his insides. “I’ll tell you what my problem is,” he shouted, then ran a hand through his hair to calm himself down. The last thing he wanted was for Nicole to hear them. “What the hell were you thinking? You tell me I can’t tell her and then you fucking bring her here?”

“What the hell are you talking about?”

“Nicole, damn it.”

“What’s wrong with Nicole? Jerrod assures me she’s very trustworthy. We can count on her to keep quiet. She’s part of the medical staff here.”

“Jerrod?” Ethan asked and sank on the bed. “Jerrod Scollin?”

“Yes. You know him?” Brett asked.

“Yes, you fool. He’s the husband to Mirage’s best friend. The companion you just saddled me with is Mirage!”

“Oh, fuck,” Brett sighed.

“Don’t you do your fucking homework?”

“Keep your damn voice down,” Brett growled.

Ethan sighed, his shoulders sinking in defeat and regret. “I have to tell her, Brett.”

“No. Damn it, Ethan. We’ve been through this. Do I need to remind you again just what these men have done to women in the past to get information? If they even suspect she knows something, they’ll tear her apart finding out what it is. Do you want that to happen to her?”

“No. But how the hell am I supposed to be here with her and not tell her who I am?”

“You better figure out a way,” Brett snarled. “I can’t get rid of her without telling Jerrod why and we can’t do that. So you’ll just have to deal with it until I can find somewhere else for you to go. You can’t stay here with her.”

Ethan shook his head, wanting to cry with the injustice of it all. “How are you going to explain that to Jerrod?”

“I’ll think of something.”

“You have no idea what you’re asking,” Ethan sighed, running his hand through his hair.

“Yes, I do. But this is what has to be done. For all we know, they knew about Mirage and they’re watching her. She’s been depressed over losing you, so if her demeanor changes in any way or they see her with you, they might begin to suspect you’re still alive.”

“Man, you are fucking grasping at straws and you know it.”

“It was common knowledge that you had a thing with Mirage. If you open your mouth and tell her, I’ll kill you myself.”

Ethan snorted and shot him a look of doubt.

“Don’t push it, Ethan.”

With a sigh, Ethan fell back on the bed and stared up at the ceiling. How the hell was he going to pull this off? “Wouldn’t it be better if I stay here? Even with Nicole? At least that way she’s under protection as well.”

“I don’t know,” Brett sighed. “The longer you’re together, the more of a chance there is she’ll figure it out. Or you’ll slip up.”

“It’s a chance I’m willing to take, Brett. I’ll be careful.” He wanted Nicole with him, even this way. At this point, he’d take what he could get.

With a shake of his head, Brett rubbed at the back of his neck. “I’ll get the doctor and have him give you a final once-over before we leave. In the meantime, I’ll think on the idea. But if I decide it’s too risky, that’s the end of it. You be thinking of those images I showed you of the other women they’ve used as bait and remember them when you have the desire to confess.”

Ethan nodded but said nothing. The last thing he wanted was to see Nicole beaten and raped. Once Ethan had given the killers’ descriptions to a sketch artist and the images were drawn, Brett had recognized them immediately. He’d dealt with them in the past but had never been able to catch up to them.

“We’re heading out. In the meantime, take care of yourself. You’re the only witness.”

“Yeah. I know,” Ethan sighed as he watched Brett leave the room and shut the door behind him. He hated thinking about what they’d done to him to make this possible. They’d pretty much skinned him, removing all the burnt flesh and muscle, then cloned a piece of undamaged skin. The cloned skin was then attached to several areas of his body and allowed to grow, covering his exposed muscle tissue.

The pain would have been unbearable and that’s why they’d kept him in a drug-induced coma for over two months. When he’d awoken he began the long, grueling process of strengthening his weakened muscles. Some of the muscles in his legs had had to be removed then cloned and graphed due to the deep burns he’d received there.

His face had also been rebuilt. He no longer had the Mediterranean lines of his father. He looked completely different, the only things the same were his eyes, and it had taken him days to get used to the changes. He wasn’t sure he would ever get used to it. It was like looking at a complete stranger.

He closed his eyes tightly and whispered to no one. “Oh, God, Nicole. Please forgive me for this.”

* * * * *

Nicole stood outside Ethan’s door, her hand frozen on the knob. The doctor had left hours ago with strict instructions that the medicinal lotion she held be massaged into his legs nightly. He hadn’t come out or made a sound since the doctor and Brett had left and she was worried about him, although for the life of her she didn’t really know why. She didn’t even know him, but there had been something in his eyes. Hell, not in his eyes, but the eyes themselves.

She shook her head, mentally chiding herself. It was her imagination and nothing more. It had just unsettled her, looking into Ethan’s brown eyes that were so much like Jaimee’s.

Steeling her spine, she gently knocked on the door before opening it. She’d come here to take care of him and take care of him she would. “Ethan?” she called softly.

She noticed him immediately, standing by the open French door leading to the pool outside. He stiffened, but said nothing as she came further into the room. His trim waist and firm hips caught her eye and she let her gaze roam down his body, clad only in a pair of shorts. Even slim from recovery, she could still see the power and strength his body once held.

Past him, the night sky twinkled. Three of the larger planets closest to Portakin 3 could be seen. The blue and red lights of the orbiting ships and satellites gave the evening a festive appearance. Like the lights of Christmas back home.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” she whispered softly and moved to stand next to him.

“Yes,” he whispered back. “I’m sorry I was such an ass earlier. This rehab and being cooped up is starting to get to me.”

“It’s all right.”

He kept his gaze on the sky, and she studied his profile. He was a handsome man, with a strong chin and cheekbones, but just a tad gaunt. He needed to eat more, regain some of the strength he’d lost. She knew all about that. The last beating she’d received from her boyfriend had almost killed her and it had taken months for her to return to her normal self. Or at least as normal as she could be.

She sighed, and he turned to look at her. There was such sadness in his eyes it tore at her heart. She smiled slightly and a muscle jerked in his cheek. Why did he seem so familiar to her?

Clearing her throat, she leaned her back against the doorframe and rested her hands at the small of her back. “Tomorrow we’ll see if we can work on that being-cooped-up thing.”

His lips quirked just a little. “How do you plan on doing that?”

She inclined her head toward the surf. “We can do your rehab on the beach. The sunshine will do wonders for you.”

“Think I’m too pale?” he teased.

She scrunched her nose and gave him a good once-over. “Maybe just a tad.”

He chuckled and turned to stare back out at the sky. “Yeah. I’m certainly not the man I was.”

“You will be again.”

“Will I?”

His gaze remained glued to the stars, his brow creased in thought. With a bit of surprise, she realized he was very easy to talk to and tease. Even though they’d only just met, she felt as though she knew him.

“Who is she?” she asked quietly. Only a woman could put such hurt and pain in a man’s eyes.

He looked at her in confusion. “What?”

“Something has you sad.” She shrugged. “I just assumed it was a woman.”

He smiled slightly and turned to lean against the other doorframe, facing her. “I just miss my life. There’s no woman.”

“No?” How could someone as handsome as he was not have a woman?

His gaze moved back to the surf, sadness once again shadowing his eyes.

“So you lied. It is a woman,” she said with a grin tugging at her lips.

He snorted. “Is it that obvious?”

“Only to another woman.”

While his head was turned she studied his chest. A long pink scar crossed his left pec muscles, running from the tip of his rib to the right collarbone. A similar scar ran down the side of his right ribs.

There was no hair on his chest and as her gaze lowered to take in his long legs visible beneath the shorts she realized he had no hair there either. His skin was just like a baby’s skin. She glanced back up at his face and his anguish-filled eyes. The heat of a blush moved up her cheeks with the realization he’d caught her staring.

Clearing her throat, she pulled the medicine from behind her back. “The doctor told me I was to rub this into your legs nightly.”

Ethan shook his head. “That’s not necessary, Nicole. I can do it.”

She frowned. “Don’t be ridiculous. Stuff like this is what I’m here for. Besides, he said your legs needed to be massaged as well.” As though it were the most natural thing to do, she sent him a teasing smile. “And I’m very good at that.”

Ethan swallowed. Hell yeah, she was good at that. But the thought of her touching him, and not being able to touch her in return, tore him up. There was no way he could handle that right now.

Nicole pointed toward the wicker bed, giving him her most stern expression. “Move, cowboy. On the bed.”

He fought a smile as he watched her boss him around. “Anything else? Would you like me to strip as well?” Her lips pursed as she studied him, and he frowned. “No, Nicole. I’m not stripping.”

She flashed that adorable, mischievous grin of hers and his gut clenched. “That’s a shame.”

“Behave yourself, woman. I’m a recovering man and my heart can’t take much excitement,” he teased.

Shaking her head, she smiled at him. God, she was so beautiful. Her chestnut hair was up and off her long, slender neck. Small ringlets hung down around her ears and bounced as she shook her head. His hand itched to remove the hair clamp and run his fingers through its softness. A breeze blew through the door, bringing her lavender scent, and he inhaled deeply as he lay across the bed.

“I have a feeling, Mr. Ethan Scott,” she chided with a grin as she settled on the mattress next to his thighs, “that your heart can take much more than you let on.”

“Maybe I exaggerated just a bit,” he replied as he held his thumb and forefinger up close together.

She spread the cold cream on the skin of his thigh, and he sucked in a shallow breath. His new skin was so sensitive. “Damn, that’s cold.”

“Sorry,” she said. “I don’t think there’s a way to warm it.”

“It’s fine once the initial shock passes.”

His eyes closed and he let his body relax as her hands and fingers massaged his sore muscles. They were firm, yet gentle and he remembered all the other times she’d touched him. Sifted her fingers through his hair, skimmed them along his chest and across his nipples. He felt the beginning stirrings of his cock and he cringed.

Damn it, not now.

Reaching over his head, he grabbed a pillow and plopped it onto his lower stomach, covering his growing shaft. Opening his eyes, he caught her staring at him with an amused glint in her eye. Damn, the woman didn’t miss a thing. He frowned. “It’s been a while. Okay?”

She giggled and moved her massaging fingers to his other thigh. “Well. You are at Fantasy Resort. Maybe we can make that part of your recovery.”

His lips quirked as he fought a grin. “Are you offering yourself for that part?”

Her surprised gaze shot to his and her hands froze on his leg. He shouldn’t have said that. What the hell was he thinking? “I’m sorry, Nicole. That was a joke.”

“All done,” she said and patted the side of his thigh before standing. “I’ll get out of here and let you get some sleep.”

She hadn’t finished the other leg and Ethan mentally chided himself for opening his big fat mouth. He watched the soft swaying of her hips as she moved to the door.

“I’m right next door if you need anything.” She pointed toward the wall on the other side of his bed with a slight smile.

I need you, he thought to himself.

“Good night, Ethan.”

The door shut softly behind her and he squeezed his eyes against the desire to run after her, to tell her he was Jaimee and make love to her all night. “Good night, my Nikki,” he whispered into the silent room.

* * * * *

Nicole leaned her back against her bedroom door, trying to settle her rapidly beating heart. His comment about offering herself for sex had startled her. Not because he’d said it, but because for a fleeting second, she’d wanted desperately to say yes.

Oh, God. How could she be attracted to him? She’d just lost Jaimee. But there was something about him that tugged at her, made her feel safe just like she’d felt with Jaimee. Even the twinkle in his eyes when he’d teased her reminded her of him.

“You’ve just been without a man too long, that’s all,” she told herself as she walked to the French doors and stared out at the moonlit beach. Was that really it? It had only been four months, which was not really that long.

“This is ridiculous,” she sighed and rubbed at her aching forehead. “Get your hormones under control, Nicole. You worked at Fantasy Bar for eight years, you can resist one little slip of a man.”

She snorted. He might be a little slim, but damn, he was certainly gorgeous and definitely not lacking in the cock area. She smiled slightly as she remembered seeing his thick shaft straining against the material of his shorts. Her touch had affected him and for some reason that made her happy.

It was insane. It had taken her years to open up to Jaimee and now here was this guy, a total stranger and yet she felt like she knew him. Like she could trust him, and it made no sense at all.

Her palm slapped at her thigh as she walked away from the window and headed to her private bath. “I can’t do this. I just can’t. He’s recovering and so am I.”

Stopping in the doorway to the bathroom, she hit her fist against the jamb in anger. “Damn you, Jaimee,” she snarled as tears streamed down her cheeks. “Why did you have to leave me?”