A Taste of Humanity

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This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

A Taste of Humanity Copyright  2011 by Shiela Stewart ISBN: 978-1-61333-004-3 Cover art by Dara England All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work, in whole or in part, in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by Decadent Publishing Company, LLC Look for us online at: www.decadentpublishing.com

A Taste of Humanity Shiela Stewart

A 1 Night Stand Story

A Taste of Humanity

Chapter One Stepping out of the taxicab, Penny stood in awe. As far as the eye could see, flashing neon signs lit up the darkness. The sounds of music rumbled in the air as people scurried about. She’d never been to Vegas. She’d dreamed of it plenty of times. Growing up, her strict parents hadn’t allowed her to vacation. Unfortunately being on her own, finances prevented her from traveling. When she’d stumbled upon Madame Evangeline’s 1Night Stand service, it seemed as though fate was calling to her. After months of saving, she had enough cash to get away. Finally, she would have her vacation and on top of it, she was going to meet a total stranger and have a one-night stand. “Right this way, ma’am.” Coming out of her thoughts, Penny turned to the smartly dressed doorman standing at the entrance to the Venetian Hotel, her bags on the cart beside him. She nodded, gripped her purse tightly, and followed right behind him. Her legs shook with nervousness as she walked into the foyer. “Is this your first time staying at the Venetian, ma’am?” “My first time in Vegas,” she admitted. Her jaw dropped as she stared at the beauty before her. The walls and floors were all done in brilliant and bright gold. The pearl-white pillars—a stunning accent to the yellows—stood tall and glamorous against the walls on each side of the entrance to every room. In the center, standing on a round, golden-yellow platform, stood a huge, gold-metal ball with interlacing strips circling in and out. “Check-in is to your right, ma’am.” Again, Penny shook herself clear and followed the doorman. He led her to a carpeted area, cordoned off by red silk ropes, and wheeled her cart to the front desk. “Enjoy your stay.” “Thank you.” She faced the bright smile of the clerk. “Hi. I’m Penny Parker. I’m supposed to be meeting Mr. O’Donnell here.”

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“Yes, Miss Parker. He’s expecting you.” The woman clicked on the computer pad then opened a drawer to produce a key card. “This will get you into the suite. The concierge will help you with your bags and take you up.” “Thank you.” Taking the card, she followed the young man, dressed much the same as the doorman, who now pushed her cart. She wondered if the woman behind the desk and the young man showing her to the room knew why she was there? It didn’t matter, she decided. After tomorrow, she’d never see them again. And so what if she was there for a onenight stand? It was no one’s business but her own. She stepped inside and the elevator doors closed. For one fleeting moment, she had the urge to bolt. Taking a deep breath, she pushed those thoughts aside. She was here for a change, for excitement, for a night of passion with a stranger. Lord knew her sex life as of late had been less than abundant—hell, it had been null and void. She’d led a sheltered life as a child, homeschooled out in the middle of nowhere because her parents had been afraid she would fall into the wrong crowd. It wasn’t until she turned nineteen and ventured out on her own that she realized just how sheltered she’d been. Dating…well, that was as foreign to her as speaking Japanese. Her first time had been with a really sweet guy named Tim. They’d dated for two months before he called it off and left for another woman. That was over a year ago now and the last time she’d had sex. Man, time dragged on when you were horny. Bored one night, she decided to scan the computer for dating services. The first one on the list had caught her attention immediately. 1NightStand. The perfect remedy to her recent dry spell. No commitments, just sex. She had immediately signed up. Within days, she’d received an email stating that her name was added to the list, and she would be contacted when a match came up. For two days, she’d waited rather impatiently, and when the follow-up email had finally arrived, she’d been absolutely giddy. She would meet a Mr. Cade O’Donnell. They’d sent her a picture of him, and her eyes had nearly bugged out. The man was as gorgeous as they came. He had shoulder-length, wavy brown hair, and his large, 2

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dark eyes—fanned with long lashes any women would envy—added sensitivity to his chiseled face. She’d accepted immediately and in moments, she would come face to face with Mr. Gorgeous. God, she hoped it ended well. “Here we go, ma’am.” Penny hadn’t even noticed the doors open, so engrossed in her thoughts. With a smile, she stepped from the car and followed him down the long corridor. Her footsteps were silent on the red carpet. When the gentleman stopped at a double door marked 552, her nerves got the best of her. Lifting her hand to her mouth, she began chewing on her nail. The doorman knocked and when the doors swung open, she bit the tip right off. This was really happening. Her date stepped into view and her heart began to thud. He looked even better in person. She loved a man with long hair and Cade’s definitely fit that bill. The curly waves teased his shoulders. His face was soft with just a hint of shadow giving the impression he hadn’t shaved today. And those eyes—my, my, they were enticing. When he smiled, the creases at the corners made him look debonair. The rest of the package was just as pleasing. He wore a dark, silver shirt with the top three buttons undone, revealing a tiny hint of chest hair. His waist was slender and the black pants fit him perfectly. Yummy came to mind and she couldn’t wait to have him. “You must be Miss Parker.” His voice was dark and gravelly, sending shivers all the way through her body when he spoke. “Penny. Pleased to meet you, Cade.” “Have a wonderful stay at the Venetian.” The bellman bowed before turning and walking away. “Please, come in.” With his hand extended, Cade showed her into the suite. Here goes everything. She tried not to look as nervous as she felt. Holy crap! She blinked rapidly at the beauty before her. The foyer—oh, my God, is that marble? Her heels clicked on it as she entered the suite. Her tiny apartment could fit in the living room alone. He led her through the sunken sitting area and up three steps to the bedroom. The huge bed could easily sleep

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four adults. He set her luggage down and facing her, he spoke in that sexy voice that made her quiver. “Welcome to our love nest.”

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Chapter Two His first thought was that she looked like a doll. She had a round face, sculpted cheekbones, and her supple lips were so adorable. One glance at her big, blue eyes could make any man’s knees weak. The body—well—that in itself would make a man drool. His cock twitched and he couldn’t wait to get her beneath him. However, throwing her on the bed and taking her here and now would have to wait as he had other plans. He wanted more for their first time. For his first time. He was a joke amongst his friends and cohorts. Despite his success, he was mocked. He tried to ignore it, still…their words stung. Why it was such a big deal that he’d never succumbed was beyond him. Even hearing about others’ experiences never tempted him to give in. Until his enemies found out. Being made fun of by his cohorts was one thing. Having his foes laugh at him was another. He still didn’t know who had left the business card on his desk. It really didn’t matter. When he’d researched it, his dilemma was solved. Madame Evangeline’s 1NightStand service was just what he needed. The beautiful and luscious Penny Parker was going to be the one to rid him of his burden. “This place is incredible. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything this beautiful.” She had a voice like an angel. “I wanted something extravagant for us, and when I saw this place, it seemed perfect.” “It certainly is.” She folded her hands in front of her, and he could sense her nervousness. “Would you like something to eat?” “I’m good, thanks. I could use a drink, though.” “There’s wine chilling by the Jacuzzi.” “Jacuzzi? Are you kidding me?”

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He smiled at her awe. “Perfectly serious. I thought we could start with a relaxing dip.” He headed to the washroom where he’d put candles out to set the mood. They flickered, adding a bit of mystery to the dimly lit room. “Oh, wow!” Feeling her excitement, he poured them each a tall flute of champagne. As he held it out to her, she grazed his hand with her fingers and once again, his dick twitched. “Shall we?” “Good thing I decided to pack my bikini. Where can I change?” “Here. Let me know when you’re ready.” Exiting the room, he closed the door,. tipped his champagne flute back, and downed the entire glass. He hoped desperately he would be able to control himself. Seeing his hand shaking, he took a deep breath. This was no big deal. Yet his mouth watered at the prospect. After several moments, the door opened. “I’m ready.” He nearly swallowed his tongue. She wore a red bikini that showed practically everything. Two tiny swatches barely covered her ample breasts. The tiny triangle over her crotch showed that the woman shaved. His mouth watered as he entered the room. “You look…incredible.” She blushed, which was simply adorable. Crossing her arms over her breasts, she giggled nervously. “One of my friends convinced me to buy this. It took a lot of convincing, but in the end I agreed with her. If I’m willing to have a one-night stand I shouldn’t be a prude about wearing a tiny bikini.” “Good advice.” He lifted his glass only to realize he’d emptied it before entering the room. “Oh, looks like you need more wine,” she said in a breathy tone that sank right to his dick. When she reached for the bottle, he bit his tongue. She had one hell of an ass. Round, smooth, and pink. It was obvious she didn’t tan much. Still, he wanted to sink his teeth into that soft flesh. He chastised himself for even thinking about doing it. “Here you go.” She poured the wine into his glass. “Those chocolate-covered strawberries look incredibly tempting.” 6

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He thought the same thing about her. She stepped into the tub and sank below the frothing water. He gulped down his wine, licked his lips before setting the glass down. Eager to join her, he pulled his shirt off. “Oh, you’re, uh, undressing here.” She shifted her vision away from him. “Sweetie, if we’re going to be doing the bump and grind, you better not be shy about seeing me naked.” He stripped out of his pants and underwear and stepped into the tub. He purposely stood still for a moment so she could see his body. “Um…yeah—oh!” Smiling, he slid into the water. “Wow, this is nice.” “It really is.” She swallowed hard as her eyes drifted to his. “Oh, you finished off that glass as well.” “I was thirsty.” “Are you nervous?” He took a strawberry between his fingers and held it out to her mouth. “This is my first time.” When she began to cough, Cade reached behind her and rubbed her back. She chewed and swallowed before responding. “Well…I never would have guessed that.” He simply shrugged it off and ate the rest of the strawberry, licking the juice off his fingers. “How about you? What made you decide to contact 1NightStand?” She took a sip from her glass and set it down, as she slid further into the tub. “I’ve had a dry spell lately.” “I find it hard to believe that you don’t have dozens of men crawling on their hands and knees for you.” She blushed again, her lashes fluttering. “I wish that were true but no, they seem to be crawling away.” He rubbed his fingers along her arm, enjoying the silkiness of her skin. “Then they’re fools.” “Thank you.” She blushed some more. “So you decided a one-night stand with a stranger was the best way to lose your virginity?” “No commitments, just sex. What’s not to like about that?” 7

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She didn’t know what he really meant by losing his virginity, and he didn’t want her running for her life after finding out. “I hear you there.” She sipped from her glass before setting it on the edge of the tub. “Did you tell anyone what you were doing?” “It’s no one’s business what I do with my life.” Picking up another strawberry, he held it to her mouth. “What about you?” She bit into the strawberry, the juices sliding down her chin. He took her hand before she could wipe it away. Leaning in, he slid his tongue along her chin, lapping up the sweetness of the berry. Cupping her face in his palm, he kissed her slowly. Her lips were as plump and sweet as the strawberry. Slowly, he seduced her mouth, his free hand caressing her arm. When he released her, the dreamy look in her eyes made him smile. Her tongue slipped out between her lips, and he wondered what it would feel like to have it run along his shaft. “What were we talking about?” He laughed, twining her fingers between his. “Did you tell anyone what you were doing?” She took a deep breath before responding. “Yeah, a few people I work with. They warned me not to do it. Risks and all. My best friend was cool with it though.” “Did you explain to them that everyone is checked out thoroughly before the date is arranged?” He raised her knuckles to his lips, caressing them with his tongue. “I did. You really don’t strike me as someone who has never been with a woman before.” He slid closer so that their legs bumped together. “I didn’t say I’d never been with a woman before.” He ran a finger along the side of her face, through her short, blonde hair. “But you said you were a virgin.” She tipped her head back when he began to nibble on her neck. “I said this is my first time.” She tasted like heaven. Her pulse hammered in her neck, her veins throbbing. “Oh…I get it. Well, in that case, it’s mine, too.” 8

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He smiled as his hands came around her waist. “I suppose you’re correct.” He took her mouth again, only this time with a bit more greed. She met his fire with her own, wrapping her arms around his neck, drawing him closer. Her breasts rested firmly against his chest, and the hardness of her nipples pressed against his flesh. “Do you really need this thing on?” He undid the strap around her neck, releasing her bikini top. She licked her lips. “I suppose it’s silly to be wearing it.” He ran his index finger along the swell of her breasts, teasing, making her nipples harden even more. “Not that you don’t look good in it, but you’d look better without it.” He lowered his head and took the taut tip in his mouth. “Oh, wow, mmm.” She leaned her head back, running her fingers through his hair. Sitting up and taking his glass of chilled champagne, Cade slowly poured it over her naked bosom and made her gasp. “That’s cold. Wow!” She sucked in a breath when he ran his tongue over her breasts. “You know how to use your mouth.” “Your sweet body makes it easy.” He tugged her bikini bottoms down that fine ass of hers. She wiggled, giving him aid in removing it. He tossed it onto the floor. She moaned when he clutched her pussy. His hand pressed tightly against her heat, and she began to gyrate. “I’ve never done it in a Jacuzzi.” She sighed. “See, another first.” He kissed her hard while he rubbed his palm over the soft, shaven folds between her legs. The water lapped against his hand, through his fingers, and from her moans and movements, he gathered it aroused her. “Oh God, you’re going to make me—holy hell!” She bucked against him, sloshing water over the lip of the tub, her fingernails digging into his back. He nearly succumbed to the urge to take her then and there. As she came down from her orgasm, those big blue eyes opened with pleasure, twinkling back at him. “Hungry?” Stepping out of the tub, his hard-on bobbing with his movements, he slipped into one of the available white robes. It would have been so easy to 9

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take her now—and the temptation was fierce—but he wanted more. Much more. When he finally gave in to his urges, he wanted to make the most of it before he revealed himself. “Um…I thought we might…you know, go to the bedroom.” He held a robe out to her, smiling. “In due time.”

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Chapter Three Slipping into the robe he held out to her, Penny wondered how the man could get her off and walk away without taking her on the spot. There was no question about his arousal—and what a glorious view that had been. She would have been diving in for more, if he’d let her. “I have to say, I’m not used to an altruistic man.” “Then you’re hanging out with the wrong crowd. Lobster?” He couldn’t know how close to home that statement was for her. “Sure. Sounds yummy.” While he called down to room service, she checked out the rest of the suite. On the lower level beneath the iron railing separating the two rooms, a beautiful, L-shaped burgundy sofa took up most of the floor space. Placed in front of it was a large, redwood coffee table, its surface as glossy as ice. A forty-two inch flat screen television hung on the wall across from the sofa. The whole suite looked like it cost a million bucks. “I ordered some beluga caviar, as well. Hope that’s all right with you?” She’d never had it before. “Isn’t that fish eggs?” “It is indeed.” “Sounds…interesting.” Penny supposed if she was willing to have a one-night stand, she really shouldn’t be fussy about some fish eggs. “So…what do you do for a living?” “I own a bordello and sell sex for a living.” She turned to him with shock. “Really?” He laughed and it sank right to her core. “Okay, maybe not. I’m the head of a mob.” She caught on to his game and played along. “Right, and I’m a world-famous actress.” “Really, what movies have you done?” She stared at him, unsure if he was joking or not. “Ummm…I’m not really an actress.”

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He embraced her, their faces merely a breath away. “You’re not very good at pretending, are you?” Laughing, she wound her hands around his neck. She loved the feel of him in her arms. “Right. I’ve been in so many I lost count. I’ve worked with all the famous male leads like Brad, George, and Matthew, to name a few.” “Ever have any love scenes with them?” He nibbled on her ear. The man had the most incredible mouth she’d ever had on her body. “Oh, definitely.” “Fascinating.” He pulled her hair aside and ran his tongue along her neck. She sank into the moment, letting his lips arouse her. The feel of his teeth against her skin sent shockwaves along her spine. “What’s it like being a mob leader?” “Oh, you know, kill the enemy, take his money, blackmail big businessmen to pay for their indiscretions. It all gets a little boring after a while.” “Must be so tedious.” She laughed as she slid her fingers under his robe to caress his chest. He seemed chilled, his skin cool to touch. “It really is. The money is good, but I miss getting my hands dirty.” When he opened the front of her robe and cupped each breast in his palms, she hoped he would indulge her this time by scooping her up and taking her to the bed. “So what’s stopping you from doing some dirty work?” She worked her fingers down his belly, but before she could grab hold of his dick, he took her hand and raised it to his lips. “Too risky to have the boss out in public. Someone would pay big bucks to take me out for good.” The knock on the door startled her. “That must be room service.” He adjusted his robe and left her standing, her loins quivering. Maybe he really was a virgin. Sure, he knew how to use his mouth and his hands—God, did he know how to use both—but he hadn’t allowed his dick to come in contact with her once yet, and preventing her from taking it in her hand made her wonder. 12

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“Dinner is served.” The aroma wafted toward her, making her mouth water. He set the large, silver platter on the glossy dining table and when he lifted the lid of a bowl-shaped silver dish to reveal the lobster, she actually moaned. “That smells incredible.” “I love how your voice purrs when you’re happy. Come. Sit. Eat.” He pulled out a chair for her. What a gentleman. She sat down and he began setting out the dishes. “Everything smells wonderful.” “I ordered it removed from its shell. I find the art of cracking through the lobster shell barbaric. This way is much better.” Piercing a morsel, he dipped it in what looked like butter, then held it out to her. “It’s a messy delicacy, but well worth it.” Taking his word for it, she leaned over the table and took the piece in her mouth. Her first bite and she wanted more. “Mmm….” “Told you you’d like it.” He stabbed a piece of fleshy meat and dipped it in the butter sauce before he slid it between his lips. Did he have any idea how much that turned her on? “I’m discovering plenty of enjoyable things since arriving.” She purred while giving him her best sultry look. “And the night is still young. Caviar?” He held the cracker to her lips, and she diligently took it in her mouth and chewed. She swallowed the morsel, which actually tasted good. “Yes it is. You have incredible lips. Did you know that?” He took her hand in his, and while his eyes held hers, he kissed her knuckles, one at a time. She wanted to melt. “You’re hard to resist. Wine?” releasing hand, he grabbed the bottle of wine. He left her speechless and all she could do is nod and hold her glass up. He filled her glass then his. She was mesmerized with his mouth as he lifted the tiny flute to his lips. She wanted to crawl across the table and devour him. “Do you live in Vegas?” He filled a cracker and popped it in his mouth. Taking a huge breath, she responded. “Nope. You?” she drank some wine, hoping it would cool her down. 13

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“Unfortunately, no.” “So what made you pick Vegas for our rendezvous?” She sipped her wine, her eyes glued to his mouth. “Sin City? Enough said.” She had to admit he had a point. “I’ve never been here before. I have to say, it is breathtaking.” She forked up another morsel of meat, dipped it in the butter, and slid it into her mouth. Now that she’d tasted lobster, she’d definitely make a habit of eating it more often. The caviar…well, she doubted she could afford that. She didn’t make much as a secretary for a small law firm. She had enough to pay the bills, rent, with barely enough to spend on fun. He set his wine down to look at her with amazement. “Seriously? Never?” “Never. You?” He waved his hand in a dismissive motion. “At least twice a year. Well, what are we doing wasting time sitting here?” He got to his feet, reaching out to her. “I’m going to show you the best part of Vegas.” *** Penny thought Cade had been joking, but when he hauled her to her feet and raced to the bedroom to change, urging her to do the same, she realized he was perfectly serious. Pulling a pair of jeans, black tank top, and red lace shirt from her suitcase, she did as he told her. She got dressed. Her body hummed with need, wanting…perhaps, to get it over with before she chickened out. Once they’d finished dressing, he took her by the hand and whisked her from the room. She giggled at his enthusiasm as he promised to give her a night she wouldn’t soon forget. She hoped it ended with a bang. It surprised her when they stepped outside and a dapper gentleman dressed in black called to Cade as he opened the door to…a frikin’ black stretch limo. Holy hell! “He was waiting for you?” “I have him for the entire weekend.”

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The driver helped them into the car. “Wow. Organized crime must pay a lot.” She laughed as the limousine started moving. “I’m rolling in it, sweetheart.” He pressed a button on the door and a skylight opened. Taking her hand in his, he urged her to her feet. “You have to take it in without anything hampering your view.” His excitement fueling her, she stepped up onto the seat and stuck her head out the opening. “It’s so gorgeous. Pictures don’t do it justice.” “No, they don’t. You’re going to love this.” In the not so far off distance, she saw bright, flashing lights, and the thumping base of a drumbeat had her toes tapping. They came to a stop and Cade took her hand, pulling her back into the car. “Where are we going?” “I am going to show you a volcano.” “Seriously?” Were there even such things in or around Vegas? “Perfectly. Looks like we got it early on.” The loud music held nothing in comparison to the view. Before her beamed a magnificent fire show that utterly mesmerized her. In rhythm to the music, flames shot into the air at least twelve feet high. There were waterfalls surrounded by brightly lit pools spouting fire and smoke. She’d never seen anything quite so fascinating in all her life. Until he took her to the Fountains of Bellagio. What a remarkable site to see. Streams of water shot into the air in a synchronized manner, with colorful lights to add to the already amazing choreography. The music wasn’t as hard as the volcano show had featured. Instead, classical and opera tunes played in rhythm with each spout of water. “This is beyond incredible. Thank you for taking me.” “It’s not over yet. I saved the best for last.” Once again, they dove into the waiting limo and drove off. When they stopped at a hotel called Rio, she had no idea what to expect. He led her into the grand, palace-like structure, her jaw dropping at what she saw around her. He escorted her into Rio’s Masquerade Village and to a set of seats only two rows from the stage. She asked what they were doing there, and he only told her to wait and see. When the lights came down and the action began, she stared up in awe. 15

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Women dressed in elegant and risqué lingerie filled the stage. Along with the women were men with bulging muscles wearing nothing but slim-fitting, satin tights, their chests bare. She might have drooled if her breath hadn’t been stolen from her. Above them, fantasy floats spun in a fanciful dance. The music got her pulse beating to the rhythm—a dark, edgy sound that blasted out all around them. Lights flashed, the performers danced, and for two hours, she sat mesmerized by the action. The Masquerade Show in the Sky was a thing of beauty, and she rejoiced in having seen it. When the show ended, she left the place with a giggle, feeling as if she’d been given a wonderful drug. She never wanted to come down.

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Chapter Four Cade admired Penny’s wonder as she drank in the sights and sounds of Vegas. He’d never seen a woman so exuberant, and he’d seen plenty of women in his day. Did she ever travel or have any sort of excitement in her life? With a bit of finesse, he could find out all about her, but not knowing was the stimulating part. She laughed at the sidewalk shows, her brilliant blue eyes dancing to the flashes of lights around her. She reminded him of a child at Christmas, giddy to see what Santa had brought her. Despite his body aching to have her, to plunder into that warm, moist flesh, he wanted to draw out the night, make the moment last. What was the point of doing something so out of the norm if you didn’t take the time to enjoy it? Sure, they could have stayed in the hotel room and spent the night having sex like wild animals, but he wanted to get to know her a little more. Watching her absorb everything around her aroused him in the same way foreplay did. He’d get her warmed up, excited, before taking her back to the room and fucking her brains out. And though his appetite to have more was tingling, he held it back. “Where to now?” Penny asked while looking around. “Have you ever gambled?” Her hair flew about in the soft breeze that had suddenly stirred. “Does poker with my friends count?” “Did you play for money?” “Of course, but nothing extravagant. Nickels and dimes.” “What about slot machines?” He walked her along the street, letting her drink in as much of the city as possible. She shrugged. “Once. My friend got hooked on them and I decided to give one a whirl. But I didn’t win anything.” “For a well-known actress, you sure don’t get out much.” She laughed and the sound split through the noise around them and sank right to his gut.

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“It’s all business for me. One movie after another. No time to take a break.” Taking his light jacket off, he slung it over her shoulders when he noticed her rubbing her arms. “All work and no play makes Penny a dull girl. Let’s go gambling.” “I hoped you would say that. Is there a cash machine around here so I can take some money out to play?” “I’ve got you covered.” He led her to the left and across the street, back to the Rio. He liked their gaming room, liked the dealers and the machines. Moreover, he couldn’t wait to see her reaction to the sights and sounds of a real, actionpacked casino. This was going to be fun. *** Penny wished she’d thought to pack a camera, or at least grabbed her cell phone before rushing out of the hotel. She would have loved some memories to look back on when she got home. A time when she’d been careless and free, with no worries or inhibitions. She tugged the coat Cade had slung over her shoulders a little closer, preventing the chilly breeze from making her shiver. He was such a gentleman and it baffled her how someone so wonderful would be single, let alone want a one-night stand from an online service. She found it hard to believe he could still be a virgin. Someone as gorgeous and kind as Cade would surely have his share of women. Yet she couldn’t explain why he kept insinuating that he was. Sure, he stated he’d never had a one-night stand before and again, she found that hard to believe. Not that she thought of him as womanizer, still, she figured most men had indulged in one-night stands. Then again, what did she know about men? The thing was, she couldn’t put her finger on it, but there was something different about Cade. Something not quite…real. Though he had stated his socalled life of crime was untrue, she had to wonder. Shaking it off, she looked up to see the same hotel where they’d been entertained by the Masquerade Show in the Sky. “Why are we back here?” 18

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“This is my favorite place to gamble.” He led her through the doors, and the instant she stepped inside, she was dumbfounded. Loud music blasted from unseen speakers, slot machines rang, and people shouted and laughed. All that aside, the view was spectacular. Vibrant tones coated the walls and floor. Bright-colored helium balloons hung suspended from the high, vaulted ceilings. Giant wooden masks adorned the walls, their white-painted eyes glancing down at the crowd as if watching in protection of all who entered. Off to the left, a raised stage was filled with dancers in tall, feathery hats and skimpy bikinis. “I can see why you like it here.” She grinned at him. “It is entertaining, in so many ways. Come. Let’s get you started on something small.” He took her hand and walked her through the roaring crowd. When he stopped at a slot machine three rows in from a line of what looked like twenty, he set her on the stool. “Wait here while I get some cash, and don’t get up no matter who asks you to go.” She nodded like an obedient child and watched him scurry away. Unsettled and a tad bit frightened, she stayed glued to the machine. It seemed simple enough. Match the symbols to win. She jumped when a hand touched her arm then turned her head to see that it was Cade. “Okay, let’s get rolling.” He inserted a bill. “Go ahead. Give it a whirl.” Nervously, she tapped the screen and held her breath as bars and numbers spun around. When it came to a stop on three gold bars, two silver bars, and a seven, she frowned. “People rarely win on their first try.” He slipped in another bill. She touched the screen and waited once again as the bars spun. After her sixth spin, Cade took her by the hand. “This machine must be unlucky.” “Or it’s the person playing it.” “Nonsense.”

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He helped her off her chair, and she’d barely vacated it when a woman twice her age and size plunked down on the seat. She inserted a bill, touched the screen, and in a matter of moments, sirens wailed out. “People never win on their first try, huh?” “I said rarely. Let’s try craps.” “Why don’t I watch you play a few games. You might have more luck.” “Your luck is just fine.” He led her to a rather large table with numbers written on the green velvet, encased in black siding. Crowded around the table, people placed their bets. Taking her hand, he scooted in between a burly, middle-aged man and his eye candy. Penny stood at his side while Cade placed his bets and grabbed the dice. “Blow on them for good luck?” “Are you sure you want me to do that?” He rolled his eyes and held out his palm. With a sigh, she leaned forward and blew. Shaking his hand, he sent the cubes shooting. And to her astonishment, he won. “Bad luck, my ass. Let’s do it again.” Each time he placed a bet, he insisted she blow on the dice. He won some and lost even more, but had a great time. She never thought her one-night stand would end up being so damn fun.

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Chapter Five The night beginning to wear on her, Penny did her best to stifle the yawns. When they finally exited the casino, she took in a deep breath. The fresh air awakened her with a quick zap. “Tired?” “A little. This has been the best day of my life.” She realized how silly that made her sound. “Not that I don’t have fun or enjoy my life. I’m just saying I’ve never had this much fun before.” She wasn't helping herself one bit. Cade laughed, slinging his arm over her shoulder. “I had a great time, too. I always enjoy seeing things through the eyes of a newbie. Sometimes we take for granted of what we have or what’s around us and don’t appreciate it. Then someone who has never seen or participated in it wakes us up.” He tipped her chin up with his free hand and smiled. “Thanks for waking me up.” “Anytime. Now what?” “The hotel. I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling rather keyed up.” Oh, she felt it too, had felt it from the moment he’d gotten her off in the jetted tub. “What a perfect idea. I’m ready if you are and…wow, that sounded really—” He cut her off with his lips, kissing her silent. “Stop over thinking things.” He waved his hand and the limo pulled up to the curb. The driver got out and held the door for them. She climbed into the car and once again, the magnificent view astonished her. “Must be nice to live like this.” “It has its moments. Drink?” He pulled out the mini bar. “Sure.” She took the champagne flute and watched the lights and action slip past them as they drove. “Have I told you how attractive you are?” She looked back to him. “I don’t believe so.” “How silly of me.” He ran his finger along her cheek. “It blows my mind. I’m a lucky guy to have been given you.”

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“You were expecting an uggo?” She snickered and sipped from her glass. He had to have seen a picture of her when Madame Evangeline had contacted him. And what did he mean by given? He sounded like he had more in mind for her than just one night of fun and that kind of worried her. The whole idea was a wham-bam-see-you-never deal. “No, I saw your picture, but you’re more attractive in person. I was set up on a blind date once with a woman who looked like a model, until she took her clothes off. Her breasts were scarred up from implant surgeries, and it was obvious she’d had liposuction recently. I wasn't entirely sure she had been born a female.” “Wow, that’s…gross.” So he wasn't a virgin then. Penny was even more confused now, but decided to let it go for the moment. “What did you do?” “I faked that I’d gotten a text and hurried out of there. I deleted her number from my address book immediately.” Or maybe he was still a virgin and this date he’d been set up with could have been his first…and she really needed to stop obsessing about it. “And the person who set you up?” “Is sitting at the bottom of Chesapeake Bay, wearing a nice pair of cinder block shoes.” The wine glass paused at her lips, and she stared at him in shocked disbelief. “I never spoke to him again.” He laughed. Relieved that he had been joking, she drank her wine, and when the car came to a halt at their hotel, she took a deep breath. Finally, they would get to the reason for this encounter. The driver opened the door for them, and after Cade climbed out, he held his hand out to her. Taking it, he pulled her from the car and right into his arms. The way he looked at her made her feel like the only woman in the world. His breath came out so quietly and softly. “Ready?” He caressed her cheek with his fingers. “More than.” This time she took the initiative, drew him closer, and pressed her lips to his in a mind-numbing kiss. She knew he felt it by the way his arms tightened around her, his breath quickening in her ear, and when she finally broke the embrace, she reveled in the dreamy look in his eyes. 22

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When his tongue slipped out between his lips, running along the edge of where she had kissed, she had the strangest urge to take it between her teeth. “We should go up to our room,” he stated breathlessly. “That would be best.” He led her through the lobby and to the elevators. The doors had barely closed before he pressed her to the back wall and drank in her lips. His mouth was fierce; his hands roamed over her breasts then down to her crotch. She prayed that no one needed the elevator anytime soon. He drove her wild kissing her, touching, and when he thrust his hips against her, she knew he was just as keyed up as she was. “Ahem.” Startled, Penny turned her head and was surprised to see a man and a woman enter the car. She hadn’t even noticed the elevator had stopped. Giving her shirt a tug, she turned to Cade, grinning. He tucked her in under his arm and whispered in her ear. “Why’d you stop?” Her eyes widened as she tipped her head to other passengers, indicating they were not alone and she had no intention of giving them a peep show. The elevator came to a halt and the couple quickly scurried out. Before the doors had closed, Cade stepped in front of her, a wicked grin on his face, his eyes twinkling teasingly. “Want to finish where we left off?” God did she ever, but then the bell dinged and the doors opened to their floor. “Looks like we’re here.” Not a moment too soon. She followed him down the hall to their suite. He slipped the key card into the slot and when the door opened, he pulled her inside. Slamming it behind him, he pinned her to the door and continued to devour her. She felt breathless and completely at his will. As if he possessed her, she gave in to him eagerly. He yanked the shirt over her head. She tore his open. She dug her nails into his chest as he slid his mouth from her lips to her ear. He nibbled; his tongue swirled her earlobe before gliding down her neck. She slid her fingers into his hair as he drifted down to the swell of her breasts. Her body was on fire, but it was nothing compared to the sharp blast of heat that shot into her core, when his tongue slid beneath the silk cup of her bra. 23

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But she wanted so much more. He spun them around and took her mouth again, backing her through the suite. She bumped into something, and he caught her before she fell. Laughing, they continued their seduction. Reaching around to her back, he unhooked her bra and she quickly removed it and tossed it aside. Desperate to have him, she released the snap on his jeans and yanked the zipper down. His bulge pressed against her pelvis and when she shoved her hand beneath the cloth, she found the tip moist. She wanted it all. In quick fashion, he undid her jeans and yanked them past her hips. Slipping his fingers inside, he fondled her as he wrapped his free arm around her and lifted her off her feet to take the steps up to the bed. She wanted to squirm, for him to press his fingers deep inside of her and when he set her on the bed, she began to kick her pants off. Kneeling, he helped her out of her jeans, tossing them behind him. She watched them land on the lamp and saw it teeter. Her mind went blank as his tongue dipped down between her legs. He lapped her up, flicking her clit with his tongue. His hot mouth against her only added to the arousal. But she didn’t want to come yet. She lifted him to his feet, smiling. “Your turn.” Getting down on her knees, she shoved his jeans all the way to his feet and took his member in her hand. The tip glistened in the dim light and she couldn’t wait to taste it. Taking it into her mouth, she slid all the way down along his shaft. She watched him while she worked her mouth along his dick. He tasted perfect. He held her to her feet, holding her tight to his body. His fingers caressed her lips and when he inserted his thumb, she bit down and saw arousal light his eyes. Running his tongue over his lips, she knew he still tasted her juices. Kicking his pants away, he hoisted her up. She wrapped her legs around his waist and felt the tip of his penis brush her vagina. “Crap! Condom.” “I have one in my pocket. Hold on.” He dipped her, grabbed his jeans, and fiddled in the pockets. She laughed as he tore the condom wrapper open with his teeth.

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He laid her on the bed and slipped the condom over his shaft. She watched, her eyes transfixed as he gave it a stroke. It was finally going to happen. She spread her legs and he perched himself over her. Both palms planed on either side of her head, he positioned himself in just the right spot. He pressed inside of her, not quickly, but instead he moved torturously slow. Lowering, he kissed her passionately while he eased deeper inside. The motion of sliding in and out had her juices flowing. She wrapped her legs around his waist and urged him deeper. “You want more?” “God, yes!” she panted. The next thing she knew, he pulled out and flipped her onto her belly. Yanking her hips up, he plunged. She cried out as he invaded her, the quick thrust bursting inside of her and producing a sensation she’d never had. With his hands gripping her hips, he pumped her as she clung to the bedding. Her head rubbed against the material covering the bed, her hair matting to her face. Reaching between her legs, she stroked her clit. He pounded into her, stroke after stroke, making her body hot with need. Just when the orgasm started to crest, he pulled out and rolled her over. Grabbing her leg, he hoisted it over his shoulder and slid into her heat, again. He watched her as he continued to drive her up. His free hand groped her breast, pinched her nipple as he nibbled on her knee. No one had ever made her feel like this before. Her body began to quiver, and she cried out as she convulsed with her release. “Yes! Yes! Harder. Faster.” The bed rocked as he pounded her, the headboard clanking against the wall. He drove her wild. She watched as his face scrunched up, his impending release imminent. With one last, deep thrust, he shouted as the orgasm took over. He dropped down over her and her legs fell limply on either side of him. She felt exhausted yet invigorated. “Virgin, my ass.” He sat up, perched between her legs, and stroked her face with his hand. “Oh, my dear Penny. There are many ways a person can be a virgin. One of which is sleeping with a human.

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Baffled, she pursed her lips. “Huh?” She watched in fright as his eyes glowed red and his teeth protruded from his mouth like fangs. “Don’t scream.” He put his palm over her mouth. “I have no intention of hurting you.” Says the man with fangs for teeth. She pulled his hand away. “You’re a…this can’t be right. How is it…are you a…vampire? ” She whispered the last word. He laughed, his lips peeling back from his pearly-white, elongated teeth. “Yes, I’m a vampire,” he whispered back. Taking her hands in his, he lifted them to his lips. She pulled them back and shoved herself to a sitting position. “I meant what I said. I won’t hurt you.” Her mind was reeling. He was a vampire. She had no idea they even existed— and she’d had sex with him. “Holy fuck. I just boinked a vampire!” His laughter sounded no different than it had before he changed. He still sounded human, felt human, smelled human yet his eyes were red and his teeth were pointy. “And I fucked a human. I guess we both lost our virginity tonight.” “I don’t get it.” He shifted so that he sat beside her. She grabbed the blankets to cover her nudity. “Get what?” The blanket drawn tight to her breast, she stared at him with fear. How was this possible? Was he going to bite her? She yanked the blankets further up, hiding her neck. “Why?” “Why…?” he repeated, brows furrowed with confusion. “Why me? Why did you want to have sex with a human? Why aren’t you sucking my blood?” Again he laughed. He slid off the bed, scooped up his pants as he headed down to the lower level, and grabbed the bottle of wine sitting in the bucket on the coffee table. She had no idea where it came from or when it had shown up. “Why you? The instant I saw your face and read your bio, I knew you were the one. Why? Because you had an innocent face, virginal. Mostly, because you didn’t look like the type to freak out, and thank you for making me right.” He handed her an empty glass as he sat on the bed, propped the bottle between his legs, and 26

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popped the cork. “Why did I want to have sex with a human? I’d never felt a human women before—rather, never penetrated a human woman before.” He poured wine into her glass before pouring some for himself. He set the bottle on the stand beside the bed. “Why am I not sucking your blood?” He lifted the wine and looked into the glass as he spoke. “Who says I won’t yet.” She gasped. “I’m kidding.” He gulped down his wine and set the empty alongside the bottle. “I don’t bite people I like.” “I…uh…my head hurts.” “I’ll leave you alone for a bit to let it all sink in, or would you rather I left?” “I…no, don’t go.” It surprised her to actually say that. He nodded as he slid from the bed. He walked to the patio doors and stepped out onto the balcony. She rushed from the bed, blankets wrapped around her body, and paced the floor in the sitting area, thinking. The lobster and caviar they’d had earlier was gone from the table now, and she deduced the staff had come in and cleaned it up. Probably why there was wine now when there hadn’t been any there before. He’d been so sweet, amused that she had never had lobster or caviar. She turned as she paced and saw the open door to the washroom. He’d seduced her in the frothy bubbles, made her orgasm, made her feel glorious. He’d taken her out on the town, showing her all the best that Vegas had to offer. And not once had he bitten her. She giggled. How silly did that sound? Still…he’d had plenty of opportunity. Even after they’d finished fucking, he still hadn’t bitten her. “I won’t hurt you.” He hadn’t, had he? He’d given her everything she wanted and more. And she gave him everything he wanted. He was right. She’d been just as much a virgin as he was. She’d never had sex with a vampire before. No one is going to believe that I slept with a vampire. The undead. And, wow, does that sound strange. “We’re not dead.” She spun around to see him standing in the doorway. The breeze from the window blew his hair about making him look so damn sexy. He reminded her of 27

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one of those romance novel hunks on the front cover. His chest bare, unbuttoned jeans hanging low on his hips. And damn if she didn’t want another taste of him. “I know the lore is that we die then come back to life, but they have it all wrong.” “How did you know what I was thinking?” “I heard your thoughts. Sorry. I came in to grab a shirt and the instant I opened the door, your thoughts blasted me.” “You’re not dead?” Oh, how stupid that sounded. He smiled, his fangs now gone as were the red eyes. “You know how they say drinking from the fountain of youth will make you young forever? Well, when a person becomes a vampire, they essentially become new. It’s rather complicated, but to break it down, vampire blood is a miracle cure and enhances everything that lays dormant inside the human brain. Telepathy for one. But we breathe, we hurt, we eventually die.” “If it’s a cure, why wouldn’t every human being want to become a vampire? Why do you hide from us?” “Living forever isn’t for everyone, neither is drinking blood and not being able to go out in the sun. And not every vampire turns out harmless. Some don’t fight the urge and take whenever they like; risks be damned.” She pondered all he’d said. “So you need blood to survive?’ “Yes.” “Do you want to drink mine?” He took the stairs down and walked toward her. She stood where she was, no longer afraid. “Not unless you want me to.” She thought that over. “Will I become like you?” “Not unless you drink from me.” Interesting. “So your goal in this was never to drink my blood? Just sex?” “Just sex.” He reached out, taking her free hand in his. “Which was fucking phenomenal.” She laughed, her nerves releasing. “It was pretty damn good.” “Good enough to do it again?” “Hell yeah!” 28

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He eased in closer. “Even now that you know what I am?” “Maybe more so.” She stepped into his arms, the blanket she’d cocooned herself in sliding to the floor at her feet. “How’s that?” He wrapped his arms around her body, fueling a fire she’d thought had been sated. “Well, I signed up for this to rebel a little. I was raised by strict parents who isolated me from the outside world. As soon as I broke free, I lived it up. But I’ve had a bit of a dry spell lately and so I thought, what the hell. Sex with no ties was the perfect solution. My coworkers thought I was nuts. Imagine what they’ll say when I tell them I fucked a vamp.” She hoisted herself up, legs wrapping around his hips. “You are the ultimate bad boy.” Chuckling, he carried her to the bed. Laying her down, he perched between her legs, then undid his jeans. “Wait.” She pressed her hand against his chest, holding him back for just a moment. “What?” “Before we go any further, I have to know one thing.” “Okay…. What?” “Do you sparkle?” He laughed, his whole body shaking. “Please, any respectable vampire would chop off his own head if he sparkled.” “Thank God.” Grinning, she took him in her arms.

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~ABOUT THE AUTHOR~

Raised on a rural farm in Saskatchewan, Shiela Stewart relied on her vivid imagination to fill her days. Never did she realize that her need to tell a story would someday lead to becoming a published romance author. In the fall of two thousand and six, Shiela published her very first book and hasn’t stopped since. When not writing, Shiela spends time with the love of her life, William and their three children. She has a strong affection for animals which is evident in the five cats, one dog, three turtles and ten fish she owns.

Visit Shiela online at: www.shielasbooks.ca