Asian Spice

Published by Phaze Books

This is an explicit and erotic novel intended for the enjoyment of adult readers. Please keep out of the hands of children.

www.Phaze.com

Asian Spice An erotic romance short by

DANA LITTLEJOHN

Asian Spice © 2008 by Dana Littlejohn All rights reserved under the International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. This is a work of fiction. Names, places, characters and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, organizations, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

A Phaze Production Phaze Books 6470A Glenway Avenue, #109 Cincinnati, OH 45211-5222 Phaze is an imprint of Mundania Press, LLC. To order additional copies of this book, contact: [email protected] www.Phaze.com Cover art © 2008 Debi Lewis Edited by Stephanie Balistieri eBook ISBN-13: 978-1-60659-007-2 First Edition – August, 2008 Printed in the United States of America 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Warning: the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

Chapter One Taniea drove her car frantically along the downtown streets of small town Anna, Ohio. Screeching to a stop in front of the Chase One building, she stomped across the lobby and tapped her foot while she waited for the elevator. She reached her floor and stomped down the hall, walking right up to the cowering secretary who sat frozen watching her approach. “Where is DeMarcus?” she demanded. “He’s, he’s in a meeting, Ms. Onyx, but—” She turned on her heel and headed down the hall as the rest of the secretary’s words faded behind her. Taniea listened at the different conference room doors as she walked by them, and when she heard voices she pushed the door open with a hard slam. “DeMarcus Green, who do you think you are?” she yelled. The stunned men at the table with DeMarcus turned to her and then back to him as he jumped to his feet. “Taniea, what are you doing here? I’m in a meeting.” “Yes, I can see that you’re in a meeting.” She looked across the table at the men and scoffed. “This isn’t a meeting, this is you and your boys trying to figure out where to go for lunch,” she said with a roll of her eyes. He smiled. “It’s still a meeting, Taniea, and you’re interrupting it.” She waved her hand to dismiss what he said. “Who do you think you are? You leave a message on my voice mail dumping me? What kind of punk does that?” she asked with her hands on her hips. DeMarcus looked at the men then back to Taniea. “Can we discuss this later, Taniea?” he asked in a low voice. “No, if I wanted to discuss it later, I would have come later. I want to discuss it now.”

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He sent them another look and spoke calmly. “Well, I didn’t want this type of confrontation, Taniea. That’s why I left the message.” “You didn’t want a confrontation? You didn’t think that message would lead to a confrontation? What kind of crap is that?” He chuckled softly and shook his head. “Okay, you know what, gentlemen, will you excuse me? It seems I have some pressing business to handle before we can continue with our meeting in peace. Go ahead to lunch; I’ll catch up with you.” The men nodded and left as Taniea tapped her foot watching them leave, then turned back to him. “So what’s your real problem, DeMarcus? Now that you don’t have people to front in front of you can tell me the real deal.” He smiled. “Okay, Taniea, I will. I heard you were up for that expansion project leader position at Honda,” he said and sat back down. “Is that true?” She sat on the table and shrugged. “Yes, it’s true. It’s between me and Robert Jackson actually, but it’s all unofficial. So what.” “I have no doubt that you will get it, Jackson isn’t a people person like you are.” She wrapped her arms around her chest. “What’s your point, DeMarcus?” “My point is if you get that job your income will take a major jump going north on the dollar scale. I don’t want to be in a relationship with a woman that makes more money than I do.” She dropped her arms and her mouth fell open. “You’re not serious, are you?” she asked with a disbelieving chuckle. “Oh, yes, I’m very serious. I have noticed in my experiences that no man wants a woman whose income is greater than his. A man should always make more money than his woman because he is the man and should be able to handle everything. If your woman makes more than you, she’ll think she’s wearing the pants in the relationship, and that’s not a relationship I would care to be in.” She stared at him for a moment than shook her head and that disbelieving chuckle escaped her again. “Okay, let me get this straight. You dumped me because I’m up for a position that 6

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could possibly bring me more money than what you make? Is that about right?” He nodded. “That and you are just too demanding. I simply don’t have time to give you what you want from me.” She rubbed her temple. “So, my wanting you to date one woman at a time and spend some quality time with me so our relationship can grow was demanding? It was asking too much from you?” He thought for a moment. “Yes, that about sums it up.” He laughed at the confused look on her face. “So what are you saying, you thought I would stay at my current position forever? You knew I wanted more when we hooked up. Why did you pursue me in the first place if you knew I would eventually seek more money and a better position? Did you think I was so demanding then?” “Because you’re fine, that’s why. You have a pretty face and a banging body. Every man wants a fine woman on his arm when they’re out and about, so his boys can give him props. Look, I realize you’re probably devastated over loosing me, but the bottom line is I don’t want you anymore. The ends and outs are irrelevant and so is whether you agree or disagree.” She was stunned. “What?” He continued as if she hadn’t spoken. “But I will give you some helpful advice because I think you’ll need it. Back down a little, you’re entirely too aggressive for a woman. No man wants a woman on the same lines as he is. Even in bed. You’re just too damn aggressive. You women say you want to be equal, but you don’t, you want your man to dominate over you. Stop trying to be the man and back it down a little.” He looked into her shocked expression and continued. “If you backed down, as fine as you are with that fine-ass body of yours, you can have any man you want. I may even consider taking you back.” He picked up the phone. “Security, yes, can you send someone up to the main conference room on the eleventh floor? I have an unwelcome guest.” He hung up and leaned back in his chair smiling at her. “So, as you can see I’m a very busy man and I don’t have time for drama. Security will be here shortly to escort you out to the pavement.” He chuckled as he picked up his glass. 7

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She hopped off the table and tapped the bottom of his glass before it touched his lips dumping the contents into his lap. “Nobody wants a punk ass man who’s afraid of a strong, independent woman, anyway,” she said crisply and stomped out of the room. Angry and confused she drove back to the Honda plant, stopped at the bathroom to freshen her tear streaked make up and drop some Visine into her eyes before going to her office with her best smile in place. “Hi, Taniea, Mr. Barkley called to speak with you.” She groaned. “Really? What did he want?” He didn’t say, but he did ask that you call him when you returned from lunch.” “That’s just great, thanks, Betty. Can you get him on the phone then transfer it to me?” “Sure thing.” She closed the door and sat heavily in her chair with a sputter. “Who needs him? He couldn’t kiss, anyway...slobbering and what not all over my face.” “Taniea, Mr. Barkley is on line one,” Betty’s voice said over the speakerphone. “Thanks, Betty.” She took a deep breath and picked up the receiver. “Hello, Mr. Barkley. How are you today?” she asked pleasantly then paused. “That’s good, I’m fine, too. So, Betty said you wanted me to give you a call.” She paused again. “Of course, I can. I’ll be there shortly.” She put the phone back in its cradle and sat back. “Okay, let’s see if this day can be recovered or if it goes down in history as my worst work day ever,” she muttered as she left her office. “Betty, I’m going upstairs to have an impromptu with Mr. Bradley. I don’t know how long it will take so just hold the fort until I return. If it goes badly you’ll see me sailing past the window at ninety miles per hour. I’m having one of those days.” Betty chuckled nodding as her boss left. Taniea took the elevator to the third floor. The employees called it Suit Row because all executives had their offices on the third floor. As she went down the hall to Mr. Bradley’s office, she saw Robert Johnson coming toward her. 8

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“Well, well, well, if it isn’t Taniea Onyx...the competition,” he said with the biggest grin she’d ever seen. She stopped in front of him and gave him her best practiced smile. “Hello, Robert, how are you? Did you have a meeting with Mr. Bradley, too?” “As a matter of fact I did. It went very well, too. It seems he’s found the man for the position as manager over the expansion project that he wanted.” She kept her gaze steady concentrating on keeping her smile in place and not letting her jaw drop, then she realized he was waiting for her to say something and forced the corners of her mouth higher. “Oh, well, that’s great, Robert, congratulations.” His smile seemed to widen too. “Yes, well, thank you, Taniea. I guess the best man won after all. So, you’re about to have a meeting with Mr. Bradley, huh?” He watched her nod blankly and wrapped his arms around his chest. “What do you think your meeting will be about?” Her smile faded and she twisted her lips, but took a deep breath before answering him. “I don’t know, Robert. Why not get out of my way so I can find out.” “Of course, of course, but you be sure to let me know when you find out,” he said with a flip of his hand and continued down the hall laughing. Taniea rolled her eyes. “Jerk.” She continued down the hall shaking off Robert’s comments before knocking on Mr. Bradley’s door. “Yes, come in!” Mr. Bradley was an older man, large and intimidating in appearance. He was at his desk with his glasses low on his nose going over a folder when Taniea poked her head in. “Hi, Mr. Bradley, it’s Taniea.” He smiled. “Yes, yes, please come in, Taniea.” She closed the door behind her and sat in the chair in front of his desk. “So, what’s this little meeting about, Mr. Bradley?” He removed his glasses and closed the folder. “Taniea, I’ll come right to the point. You probably have heard the rumors that you and Johnson were the lead candidates for the supervisor position on the expansion project.” 9

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“Yes, sir, I heard about that,” she replied shifting in her chair. “Yes and I’m guessing from your demeanor that you passed Johnson in the hall and he couldn’t wait to tell you that I offered that position to him. Am I right?” She shifted again. “Yes sir, he did mention that bit of information. So what is this, my official let me down easy session? Sorry you weren’t chosen, but we picked the better man for the job or a man for the job?” she said with a snappy edge to her voice. Mr. Bradley smiled. “Absolutely not. The reason I gave that job to Johnson is because I didn’t think he could handle the job I’m about to offer you.” She stopped avoiding his gaze and her head swung back to him. “Excuse me?” He chuckled. “Honda has chosen to open a new plant in Greenburg, Indiana. It was announced just recently. This plant has been asked to supply them with a competent person to help open the new site, get the training started and eventually assist the lead trainer train all other employees.” She listened to him explain the job to her and though she had questions for him, her brain and her mouth seemed to have lost their connection. “We’re not the only plant supplying personnel, of course. Other plants will be asking their staff if they’d like to relocate, too. Someone from the main plant in China will be relocating over here as well to work at the plant as the other trainer. That’s the position I want you to take, Taniea, trainer. You and the person from China will be doing the training for all of the employees together. This way we have someone representing both countries running the plant. You will have to go to China and train for two weeks, at Honda’s expense, of course.” With minimal connection returning to her brain she could only nod as he spoke. He chuckled and continued. “With this new position you would be required to relocate to Indiana directly after the training in China is over. Do you understand?”

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The partial connection gained potential as what he was saying to her started to sink in, but all she could manage to get out was, “Uh-huh.” “It would mean a promotion to Plant Trainer and a considerable raise, of course. In fact, it pays more money than the expansion supervisor position does because of the relocation,” he added with a wink. Suddenly full cooperation was restored to the connection between her mouth and brain and she sat straight up in her chair. “Wait a minute. Let me see if I understand what you’re asking of me. This position would mean I leave Anna and live in Indiana?” She watched him nod. “Okay, but before I do all that I first have to go to China for two weeks to train and they pay for all that?” “Yes, but acceptance of this position would also mean several other trips to China during the year, at least four, to keep the plant employees updated on any changes that they may have in their policies.” She eased back in her chair. “Hmm...” “I’m aware that taking this position would be a life altering decision. I can give you some time to think---“ “I’ll take it.” “Excuse me?” “I’ll take it. I accept your offer.” “Taniea, wait, maybe you should take a little time to think it over. Why not sleep on it or perhaps discuss it with your family, significant other or—” She laughed. “Mr. Bradley, there is no significant other and the only family I have is my parents, and they’re in Florida. Flying to them from Indiana won’t be any different than flying to them from Ohio.” He chuckled. “Well, that is true.” “Besides Mr. Bradley, I’ve been here all my life and even though I like my job this is the chance to go for something new and believe me, I’m due for a change.” “Excellent!” He opened his top draw and pulled out a folder sliding it across the desk to her. “Here is some information you will need about the job, some other stuff you will need to know once you’re in China and also some information for you to help 11

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you to relocate more quickly. Since you agreed so quickly, I can call them and have the training set up to start next week. You leave in three days.” “Three days?” He smiled. “Yes, I was going to give you those three days to think it over, but you sound like you’re ready to start a new life. Three days is enough time for you to get your affairs in order, isn’t it?” She flipped through the folder and smiled. “Three days is plenty of time.” She stood and extended her hand as her smile expanded. “Thank you, Mr. Bradley, for everything.” “You’re very welcome, Taniea, and good luck. My secretary will contact you at week’s end with everything you’ll need to leave.” Taniea floated back to her office to give Betty the good news and get her to work on relocating her. She sat in her chair heavily for the second time in one day, but this time her mood was the opposite as she spun around in circles laughing.

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Chapter Two The three days her boss gave her to prepare seemed to race by, but Taniea was packed and set to go by the time they were over. After an exhausting flight she arrived at the Shenzhen International Airport in the early afternoon the day after she left. Above thousands of heads she saw a sign with her name on it as she walked around looking for the baggage claim, and walked to the man who held it. “Hi, I’m Taniea Onyx. You do speak English, right?” He smiled and gave her a low bow. “Of course I do. Welcome to China! I’m Jimmy. I’ll take you to your hotel and make sure you get settled in. Please come with me, I’ll escort you to the baggage claim. We have a car waiting outside when we retrieve your luggage.” “That’s great because I need a hot a shower and a nap. I hate long plane rides.” “I can only imagine how uncomfortable the flight must have been for you. You do have some time to relax. The get to know you reception doesn’t begin for at least five hours.” They took the short drive from the airport to the Seaview Hotel where Jimmy left her in the limo as he went inside. “All is ready for you, Taniea. Come with me,” he said when he returned. She followed the bell hop to her room. “Wow, this is beautiful,” she said when he opened the door. The room was decorated heavily in polished gold, soft red colors, with cherry wood furniture and Asian inspired art work. Large vases accented with cherry blossoms and lotus flowers were in the corners filled with fresh flowers giving the room a soft floral scent. She walked in nodding her head with approval. “Nice, very nice.”

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Jimmy smiled. “I’m glad you approve. I asked them to put you on a high floor so you could enjoy the view of Hong Kong over the water.” She walked to the window. “Wow,” she repeated, “that is a nice view.” He chuckled. “Wait until tonight when it is all lit up. Here is your key, and please, order whatever you wish from room service and the connecting restaurants. It is all paid for courtesy of Honda. The reception will be downstairs in the Shanghai conference room at seven thirty.” “Cool, thank you, Jimmy.” **** After a snack and a much needed nap, Taniea dressed for the party and arrived on time to the conference room. She found the doors propped open and that the dancing, drinking and socializing had started without her. Stepping inside she looked around in awe as she took in the sights and sounds of the room. It was beautifully decorated and regal looking like it belonged in a palace instead of a hotel. The walls were painted a rich, deep red and trimmed in sparkling gold. On each wall there were large pictures of rulers from different time periods in China. From where she stood she could only make out the writing on the bottom of two. One was an emperor from the Qin Dynasty and the other an Emperor from the Nan Yue Kingdom, both were framed in exquisite gold frames. There were many vases and statues that towered over the dancing people as well. Her gaze wandered to the cathedral ceilings and gasped at the sight of the beautiful crystal chandeliers, befitting the palatial décor. “Wow, the only thing that’s missing is a handsome prince,” she murmured spinning in a circle. As she regarded the detailed panting on the ceiling, she heard her name being called over the loud music. She turned in its direction and stared at the soft brown eyes of a handsome prince approaching her. “You must be Taniea Onyx. I am Michael Shen,” her prince said offering his hand smiling broadly. “I will be your escort while you are here in China.” She shook his hand numbly until she realized from his expression that he was waiting for her to speak. 14

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“Yes, I am Taniea Onyx. Hello, Michael. I guess I do kinda stand out here in China, huh?” she said with a laugh. He laughed with her. “Well, you’d be surprised how many beautiful black women we have coming through our country on business. Although I must say, I have seen none as lovely as you are,” he added and dropped a kiss on her hand. She smiled and laughed again. “Michael, you smooth talking little devil, you. Are you always this charming or am I just lucky?” she asked playfully. He chuckled. “Lucky I guess. I only bring out the big guns for the special people,” he said with a wink. “Might I add that you look exquisite tonight? Your choice in dresses was excellent. Not only is it flattering to your figure, but the color also compliments your coloring.” She slapped at his arm playfully. “Stop it, Michael, you’re embarrassing me. If I could blush I’d be simply glowing right now,” she said with a laugh. “I assure you that my compliments are genuine.” She looked into his eyes and smiled. “Well, then thank you.” He returned her smile and slid her arm through his. “Come, it is time you met some people.” Michael escorted her across the room to a group of older men. “Mr. Chan, may I introduce Taniea Onyx. She is from the plant in Anna, Ohio. Taniea, Mr. Chan is the manager of the Guangzhou plant where you will be training; he will also be your instructor.” Mr. Chan gave her a slight bow and Michael continued. “To his left are Mr. Yu and Mr. Shen, no relation to me of course,” he added and the men chuckled. She nodded smiling and Michael continued with the introductions. “To Mr. Chan’s right are Mr. Lee and Mr. Chin. They will be escorts to two other people who will come to train here along with you.” “How many others will be in the class with me?” “There are a total of eleven people in the training class. They all hold different positions and come from different plants in America. These are the men you will be spending most of 15

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your time with. They are the other trainers. We will be great friends by the end of these two weeks.” One of the men passed her a drink and they all lifted their glasses in a silent toast to her. Then Michael took her away to continue introducing her to other people at the party. It was well into the night when he returned her to her room. “Thanks for walking me to my room, Michael. Do you mind coming in for a moment? I’d like to talk to you and get to know you a little better.” “Of course, that’s fine.” She walked over to the bar and looked out the window. “Wow! Jimmy said to look out the window tonight so I can see the view. He was right. Hong Kong is beautiful all lit up at night.” “Yes, I never tire of this view,” Michael said coming by her side. “I have the same view from my home, only yours is much better, I think, since you are much higher up.” “Would you like a drink?” “Yes, whatever you’re having is fine.” She fixed their drinks and followed him back to the sofa. “Michael, I’m a very upfront type of woman. I say what’s on my mind so that my meaning is clear and isn’t lost in the beating of the bush. Now, I will admit that sometimes it has gotten me into trouble, but mostly it gets me what I want and has made me a success. I am respectful of people’s feelings however, which brings me to a question I’d like to ask you.” He sipped his drink and nodded. “Okay, ask your question.” “Do I have to beat around the bush with you or can I speak my mind?” His drink halted in mid air and he gave her a confused look. “That’s my question. Your answer will determine how I approach you with a proposition I have in mind.” His drink made it to his lips and then he smiled. “No bush beating is necessary with me, Taniea. If we are to be friends, I would prefer you speak your mind to me.” He sat back and crossed his legs. “Tell me what’s on your mind.” She smiled. “Well, since I’m only going to be here for two weeks, I wondered if we couldn’t make this business trip a pleasure trip as well.” 16

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He stopped swirling the ice in his drink and looked at her. “Excuse me?” “Obviously I’m going to be in your care the whole time, spending intimate time together, and I couldn’t help but notice the instant attraction I felt for you when we met. I think an affair with you would be perfect and enjoyable.” His eyes grew wide as he listened to her words and tried to drink his drink, but the glass just bobbed in his hand never making it as far as his lips. “It would be a no strings attached kind of thing, of course, and we could go right back to our normal lives when I return to America. Well, that is if you’re not already in a committed relationship or married,” she added sipping her own drink. He put his glass down on the coffee table and began pacing the floor. “I’ve offended you, haven’t I? See, I told you, sometimes my mouth gets me into—” He waved his hand. “No, no, no, I’m not offended. I’m surprised, but not offended.” She sat back sipping her drink and watched him pace for a while. “So, are you married?” He stopped. “What? No, I’m not married.” “Are you in a committed relationship?” “No.” She sat up and finished her drink. “So, you just don’t want to have an affair?” He smiled. “No, it’s not that either. I was actually thinking over your proposal.” “Oh, well then, what do you say?” “Look, Taniea, don’t take my hesitation the wrong way. I think you’re a beautiful woman and the thought of having an affair with you sounds very enjoyable.” She smiled. “Oh, it will be.” She sat back again and crossed her legs so they would show through the long slit of her dress. He chuckled. “I’m finding it very difficult to turn down such an offer, but I must know that we will be as discreet as possible. When you return to America, I will still have to live here and both of our jobs would be on the line if we dishonor 17

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ourselves by acting,” he paused looking for the right words, “less than discreet. This is a business trip for you first and foremost. She walked over to him and pulled him back to the sofa. “Michael, you worry too much. I am all about discretion. I don’t want to jeopardize my job or yours. I just want to have a little fun while I’m in China and take you along for the ride.” She sat him down next to her. “Now, there’s no one in your life right now, right? I don’t want any drama with anyone thinking I’m stepping on their toes or stealing their man.” He shook his head and chuckled. “No, no one like that. I work too much to have any type of relationship.” He paused and chuckled again. “In fact it’s been a long time since I’ve been with a woman.” “Hmm, well it sounds to me like you’re due to have a stress free, no-strings attached love affair. So tell me, Michael, are you up for one?” She moved closer as he pondered her question. “Come on, Michael, I could use a little Asian spice in my life.” He laughed as she pushed him back and let her crawl on top of him. “Asian spice, huh? So, if you’re getting Asian spice, what will I be getting?” “You mean besides great sex?” She smiled as he laughed again and she shrugged. “Well, I hear everything is better when you add a little chocolate, maybe that applies to your life, too.” He chuckled and brought her face to his and kissed her. “No strings attached, right, and everything goes back to the way it was when you leave for home?” he asked with a raised eyebrow. She held up her right hand smiling. “Scout’s honor.” He kissed her again and then smiled. “I think I’m developing a taste for chocolate.” He kissed away her giggles and the bargain was sealed.

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Chapter Three The next day Michael arrived early to deliver her to her first day of training at the Guangzhou Honda plant. The first day included a tour of the very large facility, a film on things to come, lots of reading material on procedures and an outline of the training they would be going through. “I can’t believe he sent us back to our hotel with homework. What kind of crap is that?” Taniea said when Michael came to collect her at the end of the day. He chuckled. “Mr. Chan is a very meticulous man. He needs to know that you understand what he is trying to teach you before he can move on to the next stages. It’s a good thing it’s Friday so you’ll have the weekend to work on the things he has given you.” “Yeah, good thing,” she muttered. When they arrived back at her room she immediately kicked off her shoes and plopped down on the sofa. “That was the biggest plant I’ve ever been to. I’ve visited a few doing audits and such, but that one was huge. My feet are killing me,” she said as she rubbed them. “I wish I would have known about the touring part then I wouldn’t have worn these shoes. I would have gone for comfort instead of style.” She lifted one and shook it at him. “These shoes are for show, they go with the outfit. They are not for walking around,” she said with a laugh and mock outrage. Michael chuckled and moved the stuff on the coffee table to sit down. “Allow me.” To her surprise he took her foot from her and began massaging it. She dropped her head back and smiled. “Ahhh, that feels so good.”

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He smiled, too. “You know, in most people the pleasure receptors for the feet are right next to the pleasure receptors for the genitals.” She lifted her head and looked at him. “Really, and what does that mean?” He chuckled and switched feet. It means the reason why you think this foot massage feels so good is because I’m stimulating the receptors for your feet. While they are firing up telling your brain that I’m touching your feet they are also banging right into the receptors for your genitals.” “Uh-huh.” “Yes, so now I am stimulating those as well. So your brain thinks I’m touching them, too.” She thought on that for a moment and a slow smile came to her face. “No wonder it was starting to feel really good...my feet and other places, too.” She giggled and let her head fall back again. “You’re very good at this, Michael.” He switched feet again. “You know, because of that some people consider massaging the feet an act of foreplay.” “Well, you’re just a fountain of useful information aren’t you?” she said then her head snapped up and raised her eyebrow. “Are you one of those people who think that, Michael?” He smiled and lifted her foot to his mouth kissing and sucking her big toe. “What do you think?” he said his eyes never leaving hers. She bit her lip as she watched him take his time with each of her toes. He added soft kisses on the sole of her foot then returned to the pleasure of each toe again one by one. Barely able to get her words in order she stumbled out a reply. “Umm, yeah, I would say yes. This is definitely foreplay.” He lowered her foot with one final kiss and lifted the other. “Good it was meant to be.” She continued to stare at him in rapt attention until her head fell back again and she was lost in the blissful feeling he created. A smile came to her lips when she felt his kisses rise up her leg and the feel of his body as he moved over hers. She turned her face to his and he captured her lips stimulating more of her feel good receptors before he released her. “How do your feet feel now? Better, I hope.” 20

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“Oh, yes, they feel much better,” she said licking her lips. “Good because we must leave.” “What? Leave? Where are we going? I thought we were in for the night.” She sat up coming out of her haze. “Why are we leaving?” “I am supposed to be your escort, Taniea, remember? My superiors are watching me to make sure that I handle my business and take you around to see the sights of our city.” She threw her head back with a heavy sigh. “Oh, all right.” She picked up her shoes and walked toward the bedroom muttering. “Got me all hot and bothered and now you want to leave.” She went into the bedroom and shut the door on his laughter. Once she changed into something more casual Michael took her on a quick tour of the surrounding area near the hotel and then out to dinner. **** The next morning he came by early to share breakfast, and then they returned to Guangzhou. They visited various temples and pagodas, ate at the restaurants. Taniea took great delight shopping along the more traditional shops filling several bags with souvenirs. With arms too full to do anymore shopping, the time had come for them to leave and head back to the hotel for dinner. “That was so much fun!” she said as she pushed the door open. “China is beautiful. I guess you won’t be the only reason I’ll be glad to come back here for some more training,” she said winking at him. He chuckled following her inside. Dumping the armful of bags onto the sofa he plopped down next to them. “Yes, that was fun. I usually only go over to Guangzhou to work, not to sightsee. It really is a beautiful city with much rich history.” “Well, I loved it.” He chuckled again. “I’m glad, but if you liked that wait until I take you over to Hong Kong tomorrow.” “Great, but don’t forget, you said we can go back to Guangzhou tomorrow to those hot springs we found, too.” “Yes, yes, I haven’t forgotten.” “Good, I’m going to take these in the room.” 21

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He raised his voice so she could hear him. “How can I forget the hot springs after you bought that beautiful little bikini to wear in them? I can’t wait to see that green color against your smooth brown skin. It reminds me of something Jane would wear swinging through the trees with—” He stopped mid-sentence when Taniea stepped out of the bedroom into his line of sight. His mouth dropped open, but no more words came forth. “So, what do you think?” He sat up for a better look. His eyes roamed over her body taking in her beauty and seductive pose. She wore a long black dress with a gold flower pattern that fit her shapely body perfectly. A smile touched his lips when he caught sight of one of her full thighs through the long split on the side of the dress. “Wow,” was all he managed to say as he stood up. “When did you pick this up?” he asked walking over to her. “When you went off to get us something to drink. I wanted to get something that looked authentic. Do you like it?” He slid his hand over the silken contours of her body and smiled. “Oh yes, I like it a lot.” He pulled her closer to him and brushed his lips against hers. “I’m glad,” she whispered just as he pressed his lips to hers. Her moan was swallowed up by his kiss. She wrapped her arms around his neck and walked him backwards to the bed. Pulling him on top of her she continued to kiss him then suddenly pushed him away. “Oh shit, wait! I don’t want to mess up my dress.” ”What?” She pushed him off of her and stood up. He sat up and watched her as she slowly freed herself of the dress. She wiggled out of her panties and bra and stood before him as God made her leaving him awestruck. “The sight of you is truly exquisite.” She smiled and leaned forward to kiss him. “Thanks. Now, take your clothes off. I have another surprise for you.” He stood and removed his clothes quickly as she slid across the satin comforter to reach another bag on the other side of the

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bed. When he was naked he joined her just as she removed the contents from the bag. “What’s this?” he asked when she started dropping things on the bed. “These are three silk scarves.” He looked at her with a raised eyebrow. “I can see that. What are they for?” She smiled naughtily, but didn’t answer. Instead she pushed him on his back. “Scoot up.” When he hesitated she kissed him. “Trust me.” He hesitated just a moment longer then scooted to the top of the bed’s center. Taniea tied his left hand to the post then straddled his narrow hips and reached for his right hand and tied it. Grabbing the last scarf she slid down his body to his face. “Taniea—” “Michael, if we’re going to do this we might as well go all out, stretch our imaginations and have some fun. We can experiment and learn a few new things that we can take into our next relationships. That’s one of the perks of having a no-strings attached relationship, we can do stuff like this and if we don’t like it we don’t have the embarrassment of being with someone we love doing something dumb. To do this we must have trust, okay? He sighed then relaxed and nodded. “Okay, Taniea, but you remember this when I start to get a little experimental,” he added with a sly grin. She giggled. “I look forward to it.” She dropped another kiss on his lips and slipped the scarf over his eyes. With the sleek material firmly in place she moved down his hairless chest leaving kisses in her wake as she sat up. Slowly she skimmed her hands over his torso watching the goose bumps rise and fall and his nipples harden under her attentions. The same shiny black hair on his head swirled in thick curls around his hardening member. The lower her hands traveled the faster his chest rose and fell and his stomach muscles jumped under her fingers as she made her way toward it. The closer her hands moved to their destination the more awake it became bouncing and growing in anticipation of being touched. Gently

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she made contact with the shaft and slid the swollen head into her warm wet mouth. Michael’s body rose off the bed and his shock and pleasure was released in an audible moan that filled the room as he tugged against the silken scarves. Taniea smiled to herself and took as much of him into her mouth as she could. Michael continued to moan giving her signs that she was doing well as she moved faster, then slow, then fast again over his bulging erection. “Taniea! Stop! Untie me,” he growled a short while later. She stopped immediately. “What’s wrong? Did I do something—” “No. Taniea, please, untie me,” he panted. She crawled over him and pulled at the slipknots. Once free Michael grabbed her waist and flipped her over, kissing all over her face. “That felt incredible. I couldn’t stand it any longer. I must have you,” he said breathlessly and snatched off the scarf covering his eyes. “But I must taste you first.” He kissed across her collarbone caressing her breast. Moving lower she could feel his rock hard erection pressing against her as he kissed and sucked each nipple. “Bring them together, Michael. Suck them together,” she panted. He obliged and her moans were music to his ears as it echoed the room. Getting his fill of her breast he moved his kisses lower, then stopped. “What? What’s wrong?” she asked rising on her elbows. “Nothing, I’m sorry, I’ve just never seen anyone’s hair like this before,” he said with a chuckle. She chuckled, too. “Oh, about that. I was trying to trim one day and, well, I trimmed off a little too much. As I continued trimming trying to fix it I ended up with just enough hair left for that,” she explained and chuckled again “It kind of points the way, doesn’t it?” He touched the tiny patch of hair shaped like an upside down triangle and smiled. “Mmm hmm, points the way to paradise.” He placed a sensual kiss on the little arrow and lowered himself to lick her lavishly bringing her to a quick, satisfying 24

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orgasm. Just as she burst into a million pieces of pleasure, he moved back up her body and slid his swollen member into her heated core. Moaning loudly he stroked her intently. “Oh, Taniea, I thought the first time we were together was good because it had been so long since I’ve been with a woman, but, oooh,” he moaned loudly, then pressed his lips together shaking his head. ”I love these scarves! We definitely have to do this again! Thanks for sharing.” Michael began stroking her harder. “I was wrong. Being inside you now is just as incredible.” He pressed himself deeper into her and lifted one of her legs to his shoulder. “I don’t know what’s happening, or what you’re doing to me, but, ahhh!” He pumped her harder and faster pressing her other leg out to the side. “But I like it!” he growled. Michael sounded so far away. Taniea could hardly understand him over her own moans and cries of euphoria as she spun in a whirlwind of her own desires. Soon he joined her in her whirlwind and they screamed their enjoyment together. When he caught his breath he rolled off her and pulled her into arms where they lay quietly for a while. “Michael, why don’t you have a woman?” Taniea asked breaking the silence, stroking his chest. “I mean, you’re handsome, you’ve got a good job, a brain and you’re a fantastic lover. You’ve got it going on. Someone should have nabbed you a long time ago.” He sighed and rubbed her shoulder. “Well, I was almost married… once. Remember when I said I couldn’t remember the last relationship I was in? Well, I wasn’t exactly honest with you. I remember it all too well.” “What happened?” He sighed. “She left me for a better prospect or at least that’s what she said. She was beautiful, strong, she came from a good family and she wasn’t a sheep.” “A sheep?” He chuckled. “You know, those women who don’t have a mind of their own. They do whatever you tell them no questions asked. They’re perfectly happy being led around; doing whatever they’re told and having someone take care of them.”

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“Hmm, that type of situation bothers you? I was told all men wanted to dominate over their women.” she asked rising on her elbows to look at him. “Not all men are like that. I want to be with an equal. Lilly was far from a sheep. I didn’t rule over her, but she didn’t rule over me either. She just thought I didn’t have enough power for her and found happiness in the arms of another.” She eased back down to his chest. “So when you and Lilly broke up you just stopped dating?” He shrugged. “Something like that. It was a very long time until my next date anyway. I dated a few women a while ago, but they were sheep just looking for someone to take care of them.” “So you just gave up? There’s someone for everyone, Michael. You already know what you don’t want, that should help you find what you do want.” “I know I don’t want my heart broken again,” he said sadly. “Oh, well, I can understand that, but all women are not looking to hurt you.” They lay quietly for a moment until Taniea leaned up on his chest tapping it happily. “Hey! I have an idea! I’ll help you.” “Help me with what?” “Help you find a woman while I’m here. Women know women, Michael. I could help you find a good woman.” “No, thanks, Taniea, but I—” “Oh, pish posh! Let me help you. Now, tell me what you like in a woman.” He sighed and pulled her close to him again and ran his fingers through her hair. “Well, I don’t want a sheep, that’s for sure. I don’t mind if we take care of each other, but I want an equal, a partner in the relationship. We should take care of each other.” “Hmm…” she rubbed her head against his hand. “I want to find someone worthy of carrying the Shen name.” “What would make her worthy?” “She would be independent on her own so when we become one we’ll make a powerful team. She would have to be loyal, respectful of me, smart, strong and beautiful. Someone like that could give me strong sons to carry on my name.” 26

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“So that whole name thing sounds like it’s really important to you.” “Yes, it is important to me. All a man has is his word and his name, everything else can be taken away or replaced. I’m the eldest of four and the only son. I have a duty to my family to carry on the name Shen.” “Sounds like a lot of pressure to me.” He chuckled. “That is our way. I just haven’t been able to find anyone worthy yet.” He stroked the back of her head and she moaned and snuggled against him. He smiled and grabbed a handful of her hair pulling her backwards off of him. She gasped as he lay on top of her. “Let’s talk about something else, okay?” he asked and laid kisses across her breast again. “What, what do you want to talk about?” she panted. “Well, I was actually thinking about actions instead of talking,” he said between kissing and nipping at her nipples again, stoking the fire he had burning within her earlier. “Like what I can do with these silken scarves of yours,” he said grabbing them off the head board. She giggled as he tied the scarves around her wrists, but her giggles faded into moans when he had her wrists secured and he resumed kissing her breast. **** Sunday morning seem to come quickly for Taniea. It felt like Michael had just left her bed leaving her feeling incredible, and now he was at the door with breakfast. They shared a quiet breakfast together and she went off to shower where Michael surprised her by joining in and washing her seductively with his hands instead of a cloth. When he was done, they started their day with more sightseeing and shopping in Hong Kong. From Hong Kong they went to Michael’s apartment back in Shenzhen. His home was beautifully decorated, a combination of Asian and American cultures. He took her from room to room explaining where he purchased each artifact. “So the geisha girls in this picture are the only women that have been in your bedroom for a while, huh?” “Uh-huh.” “How long ago did you buy it?” 27

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He thought for a moment. “Almost three years.” “Three years! You’re not serious, are you?” She walked over to his bed. “Yes, I bought this picture about three years ago. I guess that means they are the only women who have been in my room in the last three years,” he said with a chuckle. She sat on his bed. “That means they’re the only ones that have been this close to your bed, too, huh?” “Yes, that’s true, too,” he said moving closer to her. She smiled and reached for his hand to pull him closer to her. “Well, we’re going to have to change that,” she said playfully. “I thought we were sightseeing.” She slipped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. “We can pick that up after a small detour, can’t we?” **** After their short tryst at Michael’s house they continued sightseeing. They toured Shamian Island before spending the rest of the day at the hot springs relaxing. “The massages here are incredible,” Taniea mentioned as they sat on opposite ends of the spring. Michael nodded his agreement sinking into the water. “Yes, it was enjoyable.” “Although, I must say, you massaged my feet way better than that woman did,” she said then moved forward to press her feet against his lap. He lifted his head and stared into her eyes with a sly grin. Pulling himself up and looked around. “Okay, Taniea, don’t let these bad little feet of yours start something you can’t finish.” She giggled. “Oh, I can finish, Mr. Shen, don’t you worry about that,” she said wiggling her feet in his lap smiling. He chuckled and swam over to her. “Oh, so now I’m Mr. Shen. Just last night I was your little Asian spice,” he whispered. She threw her head back and her laughter bounced around the chamber. “You are too funny. Come on, let’s get out of here, it’s getting late. If you stay this close to me that whole discretion thing will go right out the window, besides I’m starving. 28

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Chapter Four Happy with the way things were going with Michael, Taniea started her first full week of training on a good note. There was a lot to do, but she worked hard during those days learning all she could and spent her evenings with Michael teaching him all she could about what she liked. The two weeks of training went by very quickly. Michael picked her up from the plant that night and took her back to Guangzhou for dinner at Gung Ho, a restaurant she had come to like. It was heavily decorated with American influences and their menu catered to American tourists. As they shared enjoyable conversation and playful banter while they ate their appetizers, a pleasant female voice interrupted them. “Michael, is that you?” Michael and Taniea glanced up into the face of a beautiful young woman just as the waitress came to clear their table. He wiped his mouth and stood up. “Lilly, yes, hello. How are you?” Lilly smiled and wrapped her arms around him pulling him to her for a hug and a kiss. “I’m great.” She let him go and sent Taniea a look out the corner of her eye. “So, who’s your friend?” “My apologies. Taniea Onyx this is Lilly Fu.” Taniea smiled and extended her hand. “Hel—” Lilly shifted to point her back at Taniea and continued her conversation with Michael cutting her off. “Actually, Michael, I’m a Chan now.” Taniea noticed the slight against her and pulled her hand back. She nodded, but said nothing. Michael couldn’t hide his shock or sadness. “Oh! So you married him, huh? Rickey Chan?” “Rickey Chan!”

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Michael and Lilly looked at her Taniea. “You’ve heard of him?” Michael asked her. “Heard of him? Who hasn’t heard of him? Rickey Chan is China’s answer to Donald Trump. He’s known all over the world just like our Donald is. Isn’t he a little old for you, Lilly?” she asked with a laugh on her voice. Lilly looked at her and rolled her eyes. “So, do you guys call him The Rick?” Taniea asked leaning on the table. Michael chuckled, but Lilly looked her up and down with a disgusted stare then turned her back to Taniea again. “So, Michael, I see you’re still looking good.” He all but shuffled his feet as his hands went into his pockets. “Lilly, I don’t think—” “Well, it’s not working between us,” Lilly rushed out then smiled when Michael looked up at her. “No, Rickey and I were just not meant to be. We’re in the process of a divorce. He’s already dating some little trampy video dancer.” “Oh, well that’s too bad, Lilly. I’m sorry to hear that.” She shrugged and stepped closer to him smiling. “So, what have you been up to these days? Are you seeing anyone?” She sent a quick look over her shoulder to Taniea. “I mean anyone important?” Taniea held up her hand and stood up. “Okay, I’ve had enough. Goodbye, Lilly.” Lilly scoffed and wrapped her arms around her chest. “Excuse me?” “Oh, was that not clear enough for you? Here, let me break it down for you, Lilly. You’re making Michael uncomfortable and his discomfort is bothering me. “ “Really?” “Yes, really. So you can just take your gold digging ass up out of here.” “What?” Lilly yelled. “You heard what I said. Not only are you a gold digger, but you’re a stupid gold digger.” Lilly’s face turned beet red as her shock and rage began to build.

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Taniea put her hands on her hips. “Everybody knows that you don’t marry your sugar daddy. Not only were you dumb enough to marry him you’re even dumber by divorcing him. Once you marry your sugar daddy he’s done having fun with you and spending his money on his little girlfriend, which is what you were. Once you became his wife you could have capitalized on that making the best of the situation, but you’re going to divorce him. Nobody will care about the ex-wife of Rickey Chan, he probably has fifteen of those, but as long as you were the flavor of the month you had kudos.” Lilly was breathing harder looking like a fire cracker ready to explode, but Taniea kept digging at her. “I know he made you sign all kinds of paperwork so you can’t talk about anything that goes on in his mansion or write a book about him or something like that, and a pre-nup, too, didn’t he?” She shook her head and laughed. “See, that was just dumb. The possibilities were endless when you were still the wife, but now you’ve put yourself into a box as far as his money goes and you’ll be dropped like a hot potato.” Lilly‘s mouth open, but Taniea put her hand up to shut her up. “But that’s on you. Let me tell you where you made your dumbest move, where you really messed up. You came to this table ignoring me, treating me like I wasn’t important, like I wasn’t even here, and disrespecting me in front of Michael. That’s where you messed up.” “How dare you speak to me like that?” Lilly yelled when she found her voice. “Do you know who I am?” Taniea’s head fell backwards, but there was no joy in her laughter. “Of course I know who you are. After tonight everyone will know who you are,” she said then raised her voice. “You’re Lilly Chan, the gold digger that didn’t know what she had until it was too late and now wants what she should’ve never let go of in the first place.” Lilly looked around the restaurant at all the people who were now watching them and stomped off. Taniea sat down and waved the princess wave to all the people who watching the exchange between her and Lilly. Then she called over to the waitress who was off to the side waiting for a good time to bring their food to the table. 31

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“Taniea, I—” She held her hand up to stop him. “No! You know what Michael, just, just don’t say anything, okay?” He nodded and waited for the waitress to finish putting the plates across the table then sat next to her. Taniea sighed. “Let’s just eat and not talk.” **** The next day she heard knocking on her door early in the morning, but she ignored it and went back to sleep. With no training to get up for she stayed in bed until the early afternoon and ordered room service. She sat on the sofa flipping through the many channels on T.V. for hours as she nibbled her breakfast. A knock came to the door and she watched an envelope slide across the carpet. With a sigh she left her cold breakfast and her warm orange juice to retrieve it. Taniea, I came this morning to share breakfast with you, but you were still asleep. I hope I haven’t angered you and that we can still remain friends when you return to America. The end of training reception will be held tonight in the same room as the last reception, the Shanghai room at seven o’clock. It is semiformal. I hope to see you there. Michael She dropped the note and the envelope on the cushion next to her and bit into her cold toast with a sigh. **** She arrived at the party wearing the black satin dress she bought from Guangzhou and felt the same déjà vu when she stood in the doorway of the palace again, but this time she saw a few familiar faces and took it upon herself to go around and speak to them. It was just like Michael had said the last time they were in this room. They had finished the training session together and had become friends over the last two weeks. “You look beautiful tonight, Taniea.” She stopped her conversation and turned to the voice of her prince looking even more handsome than the first time she saw him. 32

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“Thank you, Michael, you look good, too.” “Will you excuse us?” he said to the small group of people and pulled her to the side. “Taniea, look, I want to—” She held her hand up to stop him and smiled. “No, Michael, don’t. You have nothing to apologize for. The whole Lilly incident was entirely my fault. This thing that we have is a fling; something fun for us to do while I was here with no strings attached and I crossed the line. I let the green eyed monster get a hold of me,” she said with a laugh. “I was doing more than we had agreed on and it is I that should apologize.” “Apology accepted. I just want us to be able to still be friends when it’s all said and done. This is your last night China, Taniea, and I want to spend it with you.” She smiled and picked up his arm and wrapped her arm around it. “Absolutely.” Michael and Taniea spent the evening dancing, socializing and exchanging e-mail addresses with the new friends she met, then left for her room when the reception was over. “I think this dress has become one of my favorites,” he said as they stood in her bedroom. “I won’t be able to see another woman wear it and not think of you,” he added with a chuckle. Slowly she removed his jacket and tie smiling. “Well, then I know it’s time for me to go. My intentions were, at the very least, to leave a lasting impression on you, so you wouldn’t forget me.” She chuckled as he helped her remove his shirt. “Impression? My dear sweet Taniea, since your arrival to China I find that my love for chocolate as grown daily,” he said with a mischievous grin. “How’s that for an impression?” She giggled removing the last of his clothes. “Well, my job is here is truly done then.” He kicked his pants away and reached for the diagonal buttons on her shoulder. “This being our last night together I feel I must voice what a pleasure these last two weeks have been. I have learned a lot from you.” “I’m glad. I had a good time, too. I’m sorry I couldn’t find you a woman while I was here. You’re very picky, you know?” she said as the dress fell to her feet. He chuckled. “Yes, I know, but if I’m going to be with her forever I have to be picky.” 33

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She kicked her panties to the side as he reached around her to unsnap her bra. They stood in front of one another wordlessly locking each other’s image into their memory. Taking his hand she walked to the bed and sat down in front of him. Reaching up she slid her hands over his firm, slender body with its fine musculature and smiled as her hands touched a small scar on his shoulder. It was the only blemish on his body. She moved past his smooth chest going over the goose bump covered surface of his stomach to the nest of jet black curls where his half-sleeping member rested. She saw evidence of its full awakening and lifted it to her lips, pulling it into her hot wet mouth to help it along. “Ahh…” She pulled and sucked on him generously while tickling the precious sac that held the next generation of Shens. His moans and heavy breathing told her she was doing well and he was pleased with her efforts, it spurred her onward. She continued licking and circling the head until it was back to the impressive length she had come to know. When he started to rock back and forth she placed a kiss on the swollen head that promised to stretch her deliciously and stood. He grabbed both sides of her face and kissed her hungrily trying to communicate the excitement and passion he had for her. He allowed her to sit again, but moved her back onto the bed sitting beside her and kissed her again, shaking his head. “Mmm, your lips are like honey to me.” He slid his hands over her full breast and slowly across her body to the small arrow that pointed the way to the honey pot and smiled. “Your skin reminds me of the finest milk chocolate, just as smooth, just as sweet,” he added putting a kiss on her belly. “You are a most beautiful woman. I find I will miss you for more reasons than one.” “We will always be friends, Michael. I have to return to China several times a year, my boss says, as long neither of us are committed to another person maybe we can pick up where we left off.” A slow smile came to his lips. “I’d like that.” He moved to cover her body with his own, but as he did so she pushed against his chest stopping him. “No, Michael, I want this night to be for you.” 34

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She pushed him back and straddled his narrow waist with her full thighs then pierced herself easily with his still-hard lance. With a smile on her face she let out a feel good sigh. “Now, my little Asian spice, we’re going to make use of the mirrors on the ceiling that we have grossly ignored during our whole two weeks together.” She moved over him with subtle circular movements at first until the pulsating waves of pleasure began rising within her body, then her movements grew more wildly erratic as she gave in to the untamed eruption of pleasure. Chuckling at herself for reaching climax so quickly, she began moving on him again smiling. “Mmm…” Michael looked up at the mirror and gasped. The dim lighting in the room reflected off the mirror and seemed to set her in a glowing aura. Her beauty was amplified as she glowed in the light lost in her euphoria. He watched her unable to tear his eyes away as she moved over him sending spasms of pleasure through his own body. He could tell that strong lovely feeling was building inside her again by the look on her face and how her body was gripping him, trying to milk the seeds of life from his body. She pounded herself on top of him harder and harder caught in the frenzy of her release. Just as her body gave way to glorious waves of splendor Michael grabbed her around the waist and flipped her to her back. Her screams were even louder as he pounded for all he was worth deep inside of her, lifting her legs to his shoulders in one small movement. Each thrust brought him closer and closer to oblivion until his body could take no more. Finally, he released his seed with raging force and an uninhibited cry of satisfaction just as she came again with soul shattering intensity. Breathing heavily and dripping wet, he grabbed her face staring into her eyes for a long while until exhaustion took him over. He kissed her softly then rolled off her and pulled her into his embrace kissing her back and shoulders until he fell asleep.

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Chapter Five Taniea sat in the cab exhausted from her flight from China counting the seconds until she arrived at her hotel room. A note awaited her at the front desk when she checked in that she took with her to her room. She woke early in the afternoon the next day still feeling the tiring effects of the fifteen hour flight as she ate her lunch. Noticing the note she’d forgotten to open in her haste to get to bed, she picked it up and read it. “Shit!” she said and threw the note down onto the coffee table looking at her watch. She jumped to her feet and ran into the bedroom. Digging through her duffle bag she pulled out a pair of jeans and a sweater and ran into the bathroom. Fifteen minutes later she was dressed and brushing her hair when the phone rang. She slid across the bed and knocked it off its receiver trying to answer. “Yes, hello.” She paused listening and shook her head. “Okay, I’ll be right down. Can you send someone up to help me with my bags? Thanks.” She went back to the living room and ate a few more of her cold fries and chuckled chastising herself. “This is your own fault you know. Had you read the damn note last night like you were supposed to, you wouldn’t be running around like you’re crazy. You wouldn’t be eating cold fries and feeling like a zombie, either.” She stuffed another fry in her mouth with a sigh. “I shouldn’t have just left him like that. I could have at least said goodbye.” She stuffed another fry when she turned to the door. “Coming!” She tried to cat nap in the back seat of the limo that was sent to transport her from Indianapolis to Greensburg, Indiana, but the two hour drive wasn’t long enough. She dragged herself into another hotel and checked in to find another note waiting for her. This time she took the time to read it immediately. 36

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Taniea, I hope your training went well in China. Please rest and enjoy your weekend at the Holiday Inn and report to the plant Monday morning at nine o’clock. Rental car paperwork and directions are included with this letter. Thomas Tan Chief Training Officer Greensburg Honda Plant She smiled and put the letter in her pocket. “Thanks Thomas, that’s exactly what I plan to do.” **** Rested and refreshed she arrived at the plant to meet with Thomas Tan who greeted her at the front door. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Ms. Onyx. Your work record precedes you. I hope China was to your liking,” he said pleasantly shaking her hand. “Thank you, Mr. Tan and yes, China was wonderful.” “Excellent and you may call me Tom. We are going to be running and training the individuals of this plant together, equals in our efforts to bring this plant up to speed. The plant is not due to open for another three months so we have time. I hope we can be friends as well as teammates.” “Thanks, Tom I hope so, too, and you can call me Taniea.” He smiled. “Thank you. So, are you all squared away in your hotel room?” he asked as he led the way through the plant. “Will it be sufficient until you find suitable housing?” “Yes, I think so. My secretary won’t be following me here, but she has done an excellent job of finding a realtor for me. They have found several houses for me to see this week. Hopefully I will find something by the end of the month.” “That’s excellent news. Ahh, here we are. This is my office,” he said pushing open the door. She poked her head in and looked around quickly and he closed the door and moved to the next office. “This is your office.” He pushed the door open and walked in. “During this first week we will use my office to talk and go over things until you get your office set up with everything you need. Your secretary starts next week, we took 37

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the liberty of talking to Betty, using her input to hire someone for you since she wasn’t making the move with you.” “That was very considerate of you. I wish she could’ve come with me. Betty was wonderful.” He chuckled. “Well, we know we asked a lot from our executive team when we asked you to leave everything for your job. The least we could do is make you as comfortable as we could while you get settled in.” “That’s great.” “Whatever you need for your office that you don’t already have she will be able to order for you. If you’re ready I will show you where she will be and introduce you to the others that have already arrived to work in the plant, then we could finish our tour.” “Sure, let’s go.” **** Taniea spent the next two weeks meeting more employees as they arrived from different states to run different departments and filling her office with all the needed supplies as well as house hunting each evening after work with her new best friend, Robin, the realtor. She was up early Saturday morning eating as she waited for Robin to come by and take her to see several houses they had picked out. She wanted to start narrowing down the ones she really liked. She had been in the hotel for just about a month and didn’t want to stay longer than that. Halfway through her breakfast a knock came to her door and she jumped up to get it. “Coming Robin!” she yelled stuffing the last of her toast in her mouth. “Michael!” she exclaimed when she swung the door open. “Oh my God! What are you doing here?” He smiled. “Hello, Taniea, can I come in?” “Huh? Yes, of course.” She stepped to the side and closed the door behind him watching him sit on the sofa. “Michael, I can’t believe you’re here. What are you doing here?” “You look beautiful, Taniea, even in simple jeans and a tee shirt.” “Thank you, Michael, but what are you doing here? Surely there’s no training here so soon after the two weeks in China.” “No, no training here.” 38

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She sat back. “So, why are you here, Michael? And don’t tell me some crap like you were just in the neighborhood either. I’ve been to your neighborhood and it’s a fifteen hour plane ride away.” He chuckled softly and sat back on the sofa. “I love that about you. I know I will never have to wonder what you’re thinking or be confused on your meaning about something.” She wrapped her arms around her chest. “Michael…” “Okay, look Taniea, when I woke up after spending such a wonderful night in your arms to find you gone I felt empty inside.” He sat up to lean on his knees. “I thought two weeks of great sex with no commitment would be just what I needed to kick start myself back into dating, but after spending those two weeks with you, getting to know you, getting to know your body,” he sighed and leaned back looking at her before he continued. “I find that I was learning to love you. I realized once you were away from me that I wanted more. I want you. Two weeks of you in my arms, in my life was not enough. I want to hold you forever. I want to know you better than anyone else and love you like no one else and I want you to feel the same for me.” “Michael what are you saying? You want us to have some kind of long distance affair? Are you asking me to come back to China to be with you? What are you saying?” He sighed. “I don’t know what I’m saying. All I know is that I’m not complete without you. I guess I had to have you and then lose you to know that. I also know I prefer the feeling of joy that consumes me when I’m around you to the empty, painful feeling that has gripped my heart since I woke that morning to find you gone.” “Michael, about that, I’m—” He shook his head and held his hand up before continuing. “I realized the only way to get that joyful feeling back into my heart was to get you back into my life. I also realize you can’t come to me in China. You just had your life turned upside down coming to Indiana to take this job. Once I came to grips with that I found myself on the next plane to America to be with you.” “Be with me? Are you saying you’re here to stay?” “If you’ll have me.” 39

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“But how can that be?” “There’s a guy at your plant name Thomas Tan, he’s been trying to get a transfer to go back to China for a while now. If you’ll have me, I can switch jobs with him and he can go home.” He leaned closer bringing her face to his. “So, will you have me? Will you be my wife?” She smiled and scooted closer to him sliding into his lap kissing him soundly. “Wow. Can I take that as a yes?” “Absolutely it’s a yes!” He laughed as she kissed him again. “That’s wonderful because I think I’ve developed a full fledge chocolate fetish and it’s entirely your fault,” he said playfully. She laughed with him and looked at her watch. “Well, we’ve got about an hour before Robin shows up to take me to look at a few houses, let’s see if I can find a way to feed your need until then,” she said as she pushed him backwards on to the sofa.

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DANA LITTLEJOHN

About the Author Dana Littlejohn is a multi-published author of romance and erotic romance. Please visit her Web site at DanaLittlejohn.net for more information on her books.

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