Trace lay with Diana wrapped around him, her head on his chest, strands of dark hair spread over his arm. Throughout the night, he found himself reaching for her. Each time she willingly opened to receive him. He was tired but not sated.
Sex with Diana had always been good, but last night it had been magnificent and indescribable, so much that he was forced to re-evaluate his desire for revenge. He didn’t like feeling protective toward her and he searched for the anger that had driven him to this point. He couldn’t find it.
Five years ago he had been Diana’s first lover, and he enjoyed knowing he was the first man to experience her passion. But since then she had been his uncle’s wife. The mere thought of Diana giving herself to another man filled him with anger. Taking a deep breath, he exhaled swiftly. Damn. That was Diana’s previous life, and it was over. She was his now. He needed to revamp his thoughts and think about now. He wouldn’t lose her a second time. Pulling her closer to his chest, he drifted into a light sleep.
* * *
The next morning Diana woke to the slight rocking of the boat and inhaled the scent of the ocean through the open windows. She didn’t want to face the reality of morning. She wanted to savor the moments of last night. Her hand reached for Trace. Where was he? The indentation in the pillow next to hers reminded her it hadn’t been a dream. The rumpled sheets still held his cologne. She closed her eyes as memory provided a vivid image of what had transpired through the night with Trace. She blushed as her thoughts strayed to the things they’d done to each other. She was bolder than she was before. The first time she had taken him in her mouth it had shocked and excited him. She had been shy about doing it before and he had never pushed her. She glanced at the clock on the nightstand and saw it was nine o’clock. The shower was running. The aroma of the food drifted through the open doors of the sitting room that connected to the bedroom.
The shower stopped. Trace strolled out in a towel wrapped loosely around his hips; he was drying his hair with a smaller towel. When he saw she was awake, he threw the hand towel on the chair and gave her a smile. His black hair was wet and unruly and very sexy. He ran his fingers through it and the ends spiked. Immobile, she stared at him. The man was too gorgeous for his own good.
“Hi,” he said as he strode toward her.
She blushed, pulled the sheet up to cover her breasts, and held it there. “Good morning.”
He removed her fingers from the tight grip she had on the sheet.
“You don’t need to cover up. I enjoy looking at you.”
“I’m not hiding,” she said with a nervous laugh.
“Really? Then you don’t mind if I take my fill.” He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her against his damp chest. And then he was kissing her, his mouth hard and hungry. And she was most definitely kissing him back. She promised herself one night. But what did it hurt to have at least another day? Strong hands held her head as he deepened the kiss and they fell into the rumpled sheets.
He pulled the towel from his waist and her arms slid around him even as her brain fought to stop her. His engorged penis sought the moist heat of her womb and thrust in to the hilt in one forceful movement. He waited until she caught her breath and then sought the rhythm that sent them both soaring to heights unknown, held them in a gripping climax, and then nudged them over the edge in a powerful rushing free fall.
After showering together they walked into the breakfast room. Enjoying the silence, they filled their plates. When they sat at the table, Trace poured cups of strong coffee for both of them and filled their glasses with freshly squeezed orange juice. His plate overflowed with bacon, sausages, potatoes, and eggs. In addition, he had a side plate of silver dollar pancakes saturated with butter and syrup. She grimaced as she looked at his plate, then picked up her fork and cut into the assortment of fruit she’d selected for herself.
“You should try the fruit,” she said between bites. “It’s delicious.”
“I’ll try your fruit if you eat some sausage.” He held a bite of sausage close to her mouth. She pursed her lips. Finally, she took the sausage from his fork and chewed carefully.
“Hmm. It’s good.” She took two links off his plate.
He chuckled and speared a slice of melon from her plate. “Are we going to talk about last night and this morning? Or do we pretend it didn’t happen?”
“Is this your way of telling me that us making love was a mistake?”
She finished the last bit of sausage, took a bite of the buttered toast smeared with jam, and chewed thoroughly. “Is that what you think?”
“I asked you a question, Diana.”
She stiffened. “Are you demanding an answer?”
He breathed deeply, placed his fork by his plate, and leaned back in the chair. “No. I didn’t mean for it to sound like that.”
“Good,” she said. “Of course it was a mistake.” His lips tightened. Then she added, “But I don’t regret one moment we shared.”
“I didn’t seduce you, Diana. It was mutual.”
“I know that. But I haven’t had a morning after in a long time. I didn’t know what you expected.”
“What I expected?”
“I don’t sleep around,” she said in a raised voice.
“If you’re hinting at my personal life, don’t. My past relationships have nothing to do with us.” He glared at her, picked up his fork and resumed eating.
“I’ll not be another notch on your belt.”
He threw down the fork and leaned over the table. She leaned back in her chair.
“For God’s sake, Diana, how can you believe last night was nothing more than a fling?”
“It’s been five years. I don’t really know you anymore.”
“You don’t know me?” He stood up. “What the hell have we been doing for the last few weeks but getting to know each other? You talk as if I’m a stranger. We do have a past. My God, we spent an entire year together. You practically lived at the penthouse; hardly a day went by that we didn’t see each other. How can you say you don’t know me?”
“A person can change in five years.” She stood and walked to the counter, her back to him. She could feel him staring at her. She turned and leaned against the counter. This man had been her first love. After all these years, her heart still yearned for him. She had come to him freely.
“This is not a game,” Diana said.
“No, it isn’t.” He took a deep breath. “You need to stop acting like it is and tell me what’s really bothering you.”
Subconsciously, when she accepted his invitation to take a trip down the coast, she’d known they would end up making love. He was right. It was inevitable. But she also knew it couldn’t last. She was going to enjoy the moment until it was over.
“I just want to enjoy the weekend. I don’t want any pressure. Agreed?”
“Okay.” He took her in his arms, smoothing away the wild strands of hair from her face. “I promise. No pressure. But we can’t go back to how we were. I would like for us to move forward and see where it takes us.” Diana opened her mouth to speak and he ran his finger over her lips, quieting her with his touch. “But for now, can we work on enjoying today?”
“All right. We’ll take it one day at a time.”
He dropped a fierce kiss on her lips. The palms of her hands flattened on his bare chest and his hunger hit her full force.. He increased the pressure of the kiss. It was desperate and hot. She felt consumed.
“I can’t get enough of you,” he whispered. Their tongues twisted together, battling for control. She groaned when Trace’s hands slid inside the robe and covered her naked breasts. The robe fell open, baring her nudity. He let out a strangled sound and then dropped his head and latched on to her nipple. She threw back her head from the pleasure.
Trace released his hold, scooped her in his arms, and carried her back to the bedroom. He placed her gently in the center of the bed discarding his robe as he followed her onto the bed. She quickly removed her robe and threw it to the floor. Resting on his arms, he watched her for a very long moment. She averted her eyes, afraid of showing him too much.
Finally dropping his head, he closed his mouth again over one nipple and then turned to lavish the other one. Diana didn’t think she would be able to withstand the pleasure; her breath struggled in and out of her lungs. Her hands slid up and down his broad, muscled back and her fingernails scraped over his skin. His kiss burned and demanded a passionate response. Diana lost herself willingly, she needed to connect and become one with him to drown out the weak voice of caution. This was what she wanted, what she needed now. She didn’t care about the past, and she had no thought of the future.
She spent five years mourning the loss of what she had with Trace, hating the lack of passion in her life. Now, once again, she had the chance to experience the pleasure she knew only Trace could give her.
Those powerful hands were stroking her flesh, moving down to caress the core of her center. Soon his mouth took the place of his hands and she jerked against the heated flick of his powerful tongue.
“Trace, I can’t stand it.” She closed her eyes tight, arched her back, and grabbed his hair trying to move from the storm then finally abandoning herself to the sensual pleasure of his possession.
“Yes, you can,” he said roughly. He pushed her harder to an orgasm. She felt it rushing to drown her in its depth. Orgasm after orgasm racked her body, and still Trace continued his feast. She lay open, lifeless, before him, and throbbing. After his fill, he planted light kisses on her stomach and her breasts, finally torching her with a deep kiss. She tasted herself on his tongue.
He probed the opening of her vagina. He was throbbing, thick, and heavy. She moved to meet him, spreading her thighs wider, lifting her hips while at the same time keeping her lips firmly attached to his.
“Can you take all of me?” he said in a hoarse tone, waiting to make sure she was ready.
“Yes,” she said, her voice unrecognizable to her own ears.
He pushed into her and then held still, allowing her body to adjust to the invasion. She pushed her hips and he sank deeper, his body claiming her inch by inch. Her body stretched to accommodate him.
“Trace—” She let out a breath and gasped as he rocked his hips, pushing even further into her.
“I got you. Ride the storm with me, Diana. I’ll keep you safe.” Then he did the unexpected. He took hold of her waist and rolled her over so she was sitting on top on him. Still connected, he settled her down on his lap, so that his length was buried deep inside her to the very end of her womb. Diana looked directly into his eyes as he guided her in an easy rhythm.
“It’s too much,” she groaned. Moving on him, Diana found earth-shattering pleasure she never had expected. Her body and insides were straining, reaching toward the release that built within.
“Help me. I don’t—” he said in a strangled voice. Her body trembled. She looked at him and knew he was holding back for her. He wanted her to find her release first. Balancing on her knees, she lifted up, exposing the base of his penis. She ran her finger along the edge, trying to make him lose control. He jerked and pushed into her, causing her to almost lose balance. He took control again and grabbed her by the arms. Then he flipped her over on her back, never losing the connection, and pushed deeply into her. He lifted her leg, placed it on his shoulder, and began long, hard strokes.
Teetering on the edge of something she couldn’t control, she gripped his shoulders hard, trying to keep herself stable, keep from toppling over the edge.
“Come with me, baby,” he ordered, his voice low and unrecognizable. “Now.”
She surrendered to the rush of sensations coursing through her. They both rode the wave. A splintering orgasm hit her and her body shattered into pieces. He exploded inside her. She grabbed hold of him as they both fell over the cliff into immense pleasure.
* * *
Diana was so happy it frightened her. They showered together, taking their time to explore each other again. The yacht had docked while they finished dressing. They left the bedroom and disembarked. She was eager to discover the sights of the historical southern town. They walked hand in hand down the street. Trace told her he had visited New Bern many times, but she had never been to the port town. She was a history buff and enjoyed reading about and visiting old places.
Excited, she said to him, “Do you know New Bern was discovered by the Swedes in 1710?”
“Yes.” He grinned at her excitement.
She continued. “New Bern, North Carolina was a major port and trading center in the 1800s. It was captured and occupied by the Union army after a fierce battle.”
“Yes, I know,” he said, as he opened the door to an old antique store and ushered her in. “I’m so glad you brought me here.” Diana clapped her hands as she spotted the Indian artifacts. “Oh, Trace. There’s so much to see, I don’t know where to begin.”
He smiled. “Take your time. We have all day.” She wandered through the store, picking up pieces and examining them. He encouraged her to buy things. Finally, she chose several pieces. He paid for her purchases and they left the store.
Next they went to the Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens, which was a thrill for Diana. There was so much to see it took most of the morning.
They left the gardens arm-in-arm. “Are you hungry?” he asked.
“Yes.”
“Do you want to go back to the yacht and eat?”
“No. Let’s find a restaurant and eat here.”
“Okay.”
Trace took her to the famous M.J. Raw Bar and Grill. Happy and hungry, she splurged on a mixed meal of fried butterfly shrimp and scallops with a side of sweet and tangy coleslaw and a basket of French fries.
Trace was looking at her when she popped the last fry into her mouth. She took a long swallow of sweet tea and dabbed her lips with the napkin.
“Are you finished?” He laughed when she picked up the dessert chart. He held up his arms in mock surrender. “I will not come between you and your food.”
She put down the menu. “Well, I’m kinda stuffed,” she said sheepishly. “I’ll have dessert after dinner tonight.”
“Of course you will.” He shot her an indulgent grin and he reached for the bill. He placed his black credit card on the bill and signaled for the waiter. “Do you want to continue exploring or go back to the yacht and rest?”
“No way. There’s much more to see.”
“Okay.” He signed his name to the card slip. Standing, he held out his hand to her and bowed. “Your servant awaits your orders, my lady.”
She stood, threw back her head and laughed, and then placed her hand in his.
“Lead the way, servant.”
They browsed through a jewelry boutique. “Trace, look at these turquoise bracelets. Aren’t they beautiful?” She pulled him by the hand to the case that housed the decorative pieces.
“Yes.” His voice was strange. She turned, looked at him, and saw he was looking at her and not the jewelry. She smiled and leaned into him.
“You’re supposed to be looking at the jewelry,” she whispered.
“I am. I have the most beautiful selection in my arms.”
She smiled wide. “Flattery will get you everywhere, my friend.”
“Good. That is exactly what I’m hoping.”
Diana laughed and reluctantly moved out of his arms to continue browsing. He took her hand in his and followed as she strolled around the store.
Trace insisted on buying her one of the turquoise pieces and a crystal bracelet. He hired a tour guide to finish their sightseeing. Mason was accommodating and patient even when she asked question after question of the tour guide and of him. In the past, patience had never been one of his virtues. Once she caught a faraway look on his face and wondered what was on his mind, but she never asked. She didn’t want anything to ruin the day.
They enjoyed a quiet and romantic dinner at a quaint restaurant sitting at the edge of the water. From their table, they could look out over the water and see lights from the yachts anchored in the harbor. The food was delicious and the atmosphere reminiscent of their first date years ago.
Leaning back in her chair, she watched Trace, thinking about how good she felt. It had been a beautiful day. She didn’t want to see it end.
“Do you want dessert?” he asked in a low tone.
Sighing, she lifted the wineglass and took a swallow. “I’m stuffed. I couldn’t eat another bite.”
“I’m glad you enjoyed your food,” he said with a smile, glancing at her near-empty plate.
“I did. This is a beautiful place. I’m happy you brought me to New Bern. I have fallen in love with the town. It’s so quaint, and the food is delicious.”
“I’m glad you liked it.”
“What’s not to like? The history, the atmosphere, lights, music…a girl couldn’t ask for anything more.”
“And the company?” he inquired.
She gave him a soft look. “Most of all, I have enjoyed the company.”
“I’m glad to hear that. The night is not over. I have more surprises for you.”
“You know I love surprises. Please tell.” She clapped her hands and laughed with glee.
Trace chuckled and then gave her a tender smile. “I know you love surprises. That is why it’s going to stay a surprise,” he said as he came around to assist her out of her chair. Grabbing the silk shawl, he wrapped it around her slim shoulders, his hands lingering at the pulse of her neck. She inhaled quickly, trying to fight the rush of heat that flooded her core. She had to get a grip. She was becoming addicted to his touch. Diana turned in his arms and saw the hooded look in his eyes. His uneven breathing indicated he wasn’t as in control as he seemed. Trace took her hand as they moved to leave the restaurant.
His surprise was a carriage ride through the city pulled by four white horses. It was romantic and she felt like a princess.
“Oh, Trace,” she said. She fought to hold back the tears that lodged in her throat. “You didn’t have to, but I’m so glad you did. This has always been a dream of mine.”
“I know.” He lifted her onto the seat. She turned to him, waiting for him to explain. “I remember you telling me the things you would like to do.”
She cupped his jaw in her hand. “Thank you for remembering,” she said softly and kissed him. His swift intake of breath let her know she had surprised him. She had never taken the initiative in the relationship. She liked the fact she could surprise him. She wanted him to know how much she appreciated his thoughtfulness.
“I remember everything about you, Diana,” he said softly. She pulled his head to her, placed her lips to his, and kissed him thoroughly. They were both gasping for breath when he lifted his head.
“We need to get back to the yacht…quickly.” Trace’s voice was filled with need and desire.
“Oh, no, you don’t. We’re going to continue the ride. You’ll not cheat me out of one of my dreams.”
“I’ll buy you all the damn white horses and carriages you want. Then you’ll be able to ride whenever you want.”
“Uh-uh. Just think of what will come later. Now sit back and enjoy the ride.”
“You drive a hard bargain.”
“Hard? Hmm…” she teased. She placed her hand on his thigh and caressed it through the fabric.
“Diana, you’ll pay for this.” He gritted his teeth.
“I do hope so.” She smiled and laid her head on his shoulder.
They strolled hand and hand back to the yacht. Not stopping for anything, he led her to the master suite. Without a word, he undressed her slowly, never taking his eyes from her face, and began to make sweet, passionate love to her. His touch was light as a feather that then turned fierce. She was drowning. When she found her release, she almost lost consciousness. She couldn’t love him more than she did at that moment. Afterwards, he pulled her to him and spooned her to his body. She lay in his arms as he gently rubbed her to relieve the aftershocks and tremors of their lovemaking. The last thing she remembered before sliding into a deep sleep was the fleeting touch of his kiss as he cradled her close and whispered her name.