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Copyright © 2012 by R.W. Shannon All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or shared in any form, including but not limited to: printing, photocopying, faxing, recording, electronic transmission, or by any information storage or retrieval system without prior written permission from the authors or holders of the copyright. This book is a work of fiction. References may be made to locations and historical events; however, names, characters, places and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination and/or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons (living or dead), businesses, events or locales is either used fictitiously or coincidental. All trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, and registered service marks are the property of their respective owners and are used herein for identification purposes only. Published by Beautiful Trouble Publishing, LLC PO Box 61 Colfax, NC 27235 www.beautifultroublepublishing.com Cover Art: Shara Azod Editor: Stephanie Parent Proofreader: Cindy Davis, http://www.fiction-doctor.com/ Formatter: Jim & Zetta, http://www.jimandzetta.com/ E-book Conversion: Jim & Zetta, http://www.jimandzetta.com/ ISBN: (e-book) 978-1-61788-259-3; (print) 978-1-61788-260-9
To the inventor of love, may he continue to sprinkle his magic on all of us. (hint, hint)
eBooks are NOT transferable. Re-selling, sharing or giving away eBooks is a copyright infringement. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission of the author or Beautiful Trouble Publishing.
This work of erotica contains adult language and sexually explicit scenes, which are smoking hot. This book is intended only for adults, as it is defined by the laws of the country in which the purchase is made. Keep this book out of the hands of under-aged readers.
An after-sunset breeze enveloped Scarlett Possi as she crossed the cobblestone street in front of Ciao Bella. The restaurant was located in a village outside of Rhodes, Greece, and tonight was the grand reopening. Pausing outside the oak door, her hand trembled when she pulled her black shawl across her bare, tawny-hued shoulders. Scarlett reached for the brass handle, but the door was yanked open. In the entrance stood Veronica Guccilli, wife of Ciao Bella’s owner, Stephano. Veronica scowled at her. Rolling her eyes, Scarlett knew her best friend was scrutinizing her black halter dress and black pumps. As always, Veronica was dazzling this evening in her gold strapless dress and sparkling stiletto sandals. The former New Yorkers had been close friends ever since they’d shared a dorm room at Columbia University. While Scarlett had majored in art history, Veronica got her degree in commercial design. Veronica’s career took off, but Scarlett found herself working as a low-paid assistant at the Museum of Art in New York. “I saw you crossing the street through the window,” Veronica said, giving Scarlett the onceover. 7
“Well, how do I look?” Scarlett asked as she twirled. “Perfect!” Veronica smiled and pulled Scarlett toward her for a hug. Releasing Scarlett, Veronica held her at arm’s length. “He’s not here yet,” Veronica whispered. Scarlett sighed with relief. In the month that she’d lived in Greece, Scarlett had met all the residents of the tiny tourist village. Well, all but one. She had yet to meet her handsome neighbor Mikeli Stavros, owner of the Venti Vicci bar. Although she had seen him going in and out of his apartment or into work, she’d yet to have a face-to-face meeting with him. It was this meeting that made her nervous. Only Veronica knew of her crush on Mikeli. Laughter and the aroma of roasted tomatoes greeted Scarlett when she stepped inside the lobby. The design of the newly constructed space was rustic with a modern twist. Stucco walls were accented by honey oak wainscoting. Thick, dark cherry beams highlighted the high ceilings. Wrought-iron chandeliers softly lit the open dining area, which held twenty wooden tables. Stephano had said this was a quiet celebration for only family, friends and locals, but the space was almost filled to capacity. “This is amazing!” Scarlett said. 8
Veronica shrugged. “I did what I could. Getting Stephano to see past the initial cost was the challenge.” Scarlett smirked. “But you have your ways. Remember, I lived with you for three weeks.” Blushing, Veronica moved to the bar area. She poured a glass of white wine and gave it to Scarlett. Scarlett had been living with the newlyweds while her two-bedroom apartment was being renovated. The temporary arrangement was fine, but she was ready to move into her own space. The renovations had been finalized this week, and she could move in as early as this coming weekend. Suddenly, Scarlet was pulled into a bear hug. She inhaled the masculine scent of Stephano as he crushed her to his chest. Stephano was nothing if not overly dramatic, and he was a perfect pairing for her best friend. Scarlett had first met Stephano while he lived in New York with Veronica. In time, the handsome chef had become one of her best friends as well. “The apple of my wife’s eye is here,” he announced with a flourish and a thick Italian accent. “Scarlett, your beauty lights up the darkest room.” “Let her go, you idiot. She can’t breathe.” Scarlett smiled when she recognized Evander’s voice. The lifelong friends were polar opposites. 9
Evander was Greek, while Stephano was Italian. Both native Grecians had married beautiful American woman, who had given up their lives in the States for love. When Stephano let Scarlett go, she peeked over his muscular shoulder to see Evander’s dark curls and blue eyes. Grace stood laughing at his side, breathtaking in a red spaghetti-strapped dress, while Evander wore a blue sweater and navy slacks. Scarlett was with Veronica when she purchased Stephano’s charcoal suit, white shirt and green tie from a merchant near the harbor. “I’ll make your favorite—ravioli with spinach and chicken,” Stephano said. “That sounds delicious. May I place my order as well?” Scarlett turned. Mikeli Stavros beamed as he stood behind them. He looked handsome in a dark shirt and pants. His shoulder-length, ebony hair framed the chiseled features of his olive-toned face. A thin mustache curled over his upper lip, while his dimpled chin was accented by a goatee. When his gaze fell upon her, he winked. Her breath stilled. Before Scarlett could speak to him, Stephano pulled her away and led her to a table filled with members of his family. When she turned back to look at Mikeli, he was now talking with one of 10
the women from the village. But his eyes were on Scarlett. Scarlett began to work up the nerve to go talk to him. She was stopped by Stephano’s sister, Joliane. “How are you enjoying Rhodes?” Joliane asked. Scarlett plastered on a smile and answered Joliane’s question. She glanced in Mikeli’s direction. He was still looking at her. While she answered Joliane, his intense gaze caused her to stutter. Damn it. Come hell or high water, she was going to meet him. “Would you excuse me?” Scarlett said to Joliane. Joliane nodded. Scarlett turned to head in his direction, but Mikeli was being led to the bar by two other females. Crap! She started to move toward them, but was stopped by Stephano’s brother, Sergio. Oh well. There should be plenty of time to talk to him later tonight.
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A week later, Scarlett locked the front door of her building. The last shipment of her belongings had arrived from the States. Evander and Stephano had just finished carrying her furniture up the narrow staircase to her two-bedroom apartment above her Rhodes art gallery. Her move to Rhodes from New York had been an easy decision, especially after the way Veronica had raved about the tiny village. It had been a lifelong dream of Scarlett’s to open a gallery in an international country. And now, it was finally coming true. It was ten thirty in the evening and she was exhausted. Dragging her aching body up the ten steps, she entered the spacious apartment and locked the door behind her. A separate street entrance led to the living quarters, but she could also access the apartment by a narrow spiral staircase inside the gallery. Right now, the apartment was in disarray. Boxes littered the floor space from the living room to the small kitchen area. Furniture wasn’t placed where she wanted it, but it would have to wait until morning. She made her way through the chaos to the room she was 12
using as her master bedroom. Scarlett kicked off her shoes and flopped down on the bare mattress. The linens were in a box, somewhere, but she didn’t feel like searching for them. Closing her eyes, she went over her plans for the gallery in her head. She wanted to turn the back courtyard and empty plot of land next to her building into a sculpture garden with seating. It would be a place for patrons to hang out. Later, she could work out something with Stephano and Mikeli, to serve either food or drinks to the patrons. Her thoughts shifted to Mikeli. She hadn’t been able to speak to him the night of the restaurant opening. Whenever she worked up the nerve, either some woman was draped on his arm or she was pulled away by one of Stephano’s sisters. Soon after the grand opening, Mikeli had gone on a short vacation, according to one of his employees. Still, she hadn’t been able to shake his sexy image from her mind. Maybe one day, she’d finally get to meet him. The temperature of the room was dropping. Opening her eyes, she realized she couldn’t be comfortable on a bare mattress all night. Damn it! Swinging her feet over the side of the bed, she stood. Scarlett plugged her music player into its docking station and turned it on. As she bobbed her head along to Justin Timberlake, she started pulling tape off 13
of boxes and began the task of searching for her linens. By the sixth box, she’d found her sheets and pillows but not her blankets. Scarlett tossed the white linens onto her bed. She pulled the elastic band out of her hair and ran her fingers through her soft, dark tresses. Exhaling, she shook out the fitted sheet and stretched it over the full-sized mattress. A knock sounded. First, Scarlett thought it was a part of the Kanye West song that was playing and ignored it. But when it sounded again, she frowned and made her way to the door of her apartment. By now, it was almost midnight. Who could it be? She opened the apartment door and peered down the staircase to the solid front door. Cautiously, she moved down the stairs and peeked out the peephole. A man dressed in cycling gear stood on the sidewalk. She turned on the foyer lights, and he knocked once more. Slowly, she recognized the man. “Mikeli?” Scarlett asked through the closed door. “Yes. I saw the lights on in the building. I wanted to make sure you were okay.” His baritone voice was thick with a Greek accent. Swiftly, Scarlett unlocked the door and tugged it open. Her heart stopped beating. When he removed his helmet, she caught a glimpse of his hazel eyes and dark, shoulder-length hair. He wore a yellow and red cycling top with black bike shorts. A yellow bike 14
covered with stickers leaned against his muscular thighs. His smile was magnetic. She leaned against the door to stop herself from fainting. “Scarlett, right?” he asked. “Yes.” “I’d hoped we’d have a chance to speak at the grand opening.” Her heart fluttered. “So did I.” “I heard you were moving in today. I’m sorry to disturb you. I wanted to check on your welfare.” “You’re not. And I’m fine. Thank you.” But she wasn’t fine. Mikeli was. Now she understood what Veronica and Grace had tried to warn her about at lunch earlier. They’d told her that even though she wasn’t looking, love would find her when she least expected it. Her hands trembled. She quickly hid them behind her back. What the hell was in the water around here? “I heard you were out of town,” she said. “Yes, I was on a cycling tour along the coast of Turkey. Pardon my appearance, I forgot to bring a change of casual clothes with me and had to wear this on the ferry.” “I don’t mind.” And Scarlett didn’t mind at all. The form-fitting clothes showed off his athletic build, and the mound he was packing between his legs. She cleared her throat. “I’m sure it was a beautiful ride.” 15
He nodded. “It was. Do you ride?” “No. I haven’t been on a bike in years.” “Maybe we can change that,” he said. “I’d love to take you on a tour of Rhodes one day.” “I’d like that.” Mikeli smiled. “I’ve taken up enough of your time. Are you settled?” Scarlett shook her head. “I was looking for my blankets. I can’t seem to find them.” Nodding, he hoisted his bike over one shoulder and picked up a duffle bag. “Don’t move.” She smiled. Wild horses couldn’t move her from that spot. Turning, he walked a few feet away. He opened his door and disappeared inside. Scarlett finally exhaled the breath she’d been holding. Her heart thundered in her ears. When he returned a few minutes later, her breath again caught in her throat. Mikeli held a patchwork quilt in his arms. “My grandmother made this,” he said. “I’d be honored if it kept you warm.” Scarlett took it from him. “Thank you.” “If you need anything else, you know where I live. Please stop by at anytime.” “Okay.” Mikeli waited for her to close the door. Scarlett didn’t hear him leave until she locked it. With a sigh, she sank to the floor of the foyer. She brought the quilt 16
to her nose and inhaled its musky scent. Damn it. This was not supposed to happen. Moving to Rhodes was about starting a new life and discovering herself. Not meeting a man and falling head over heels. Anyway, she scolded, she’d just met him. A man like that wasn’t unattached. Scarlett picked herself off the floor. As she climbed the stairs, she draped the quilt over her shoulders and inhaled.
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A few nights later, Mikeli whistled as he wiped down the bar at closing time. He had inherited Venti Vicci from his father when he’d died ten years ago. Since Mikeli was busy with his cycling career, his mother had tried to run it in his absence, but found it difficult while also raising his three younger siblings. When he tore his ACL five years ago, halting his Olympic dreams, he returned to his hometown to run the business. He periodically glanced out the windows, hoping to see his new neighbor. He wondered what Scarlett was doing now. A smile spread across his lips as he recalled his first meeting with the fetching Scarlett. The five-foot, six-inch beauty with long dark hair and smooth, tawny skin had been on his mind since the night of Ciao Bella’s grand opening. Mikeli hoped last night’s darkness had hid his erection, because he was certain his bike shorts did not. He wanted to go see her, but decided to give her space to settle in. Actually, if he saw her again, he couldn’t be held accountable for his actions. He’d lie in bed, listening to her move about the apartment next door. The fantasy of her moving around in next to nothing, or nothing at all, made it hard for him to 18
sleep at night. Even now, his cock hardened against the fly of his jeans. It was eleven p.m. Maybe he could take her a nightcap. What was the harm in that? Tossing the cloth on the bar, he turned to look at the shelf behind him. He reached for the bourbon to make his signature drink. Someone knocked on his front door, and his heart fluttered. Was it Scarlett? Rounding the bar, he opened the door. It wasn’t Scarlett, but an old flame from his past. “Dionne?” Mikeli asked in disbelief. Dionne Scarpelli smiled at him. Closing the distance, she wrapped her arms around his waist and hugged him. Mikeli clung to the wood door for support. What was she doing here? This was the woman who’d caused a riff in his friendship with Stephano and had broken Mikeli’s heart into a million pieces. “Oh, Mikeli,” she sighed in Greek against his chest. “I’ve missed you. I hope it’s not too late, but I wanted to see you when you were alone, and I couldn’t wait until morning.” Mikeli stepped out of her embrace. It was funny. He had expected to feel something if he ever saw her again, but as of this moment, he felt nothing. Still, he didn’t want to carry out this conversation in his doorway for the whole world, and Scarlett, to hear. 19
“Come in. You look great,” he commented. And she did. Dionne’s dark skin glowed as she moved past him. Her dark hair was as he remembered it, long and curly. When she turned to face him, there was a sparkle in her dark eyes. Her tan linen dress hugged her curves. She smiled. His erection, caused by thoughts of Scarlett, deflated. “Thank you,” she said. “You’re as handsome as ever.” “Drink?” he asked to be polite, but he didn’t want her to stay. “Sure.” Walking to the bar, he poured her a glass of white wine. “So, what brings you to Rhodes?” Sitting on one of the wooden stools that lined the bar, she paused to sip her wine before answering. “You.” “I’m flattered, but aren’t you married?” “Not anymore. We separated last month.” Mikeli leaned against the back counter and crossed his arms over his chest. His and Dionne’s relationship had lasted for two years. During that time, he was training for both the Olympics and the Tour De France as part of Greece’s cycling team. She couldn’t stand competing with his career and broke up with him. A year later, she married someone else and moved to France. 20
Dionne motioned to his trophies and medals, which were displayed above the bar. “I followed your career,” she said. “You were incredible. I heard you’re thinking about a comeback.” He waved off her comment. “It’s just a thought.” “I’ve already told my children about the professional athlete that I once knew. They’re excited to meet you.” “How many kids do you have?” he asked, picking up his dust cloth but setting it back down. “Three. They’re ten, seven and five.” “Where are they?” “At the Harbor Hotel with my mom.” Mikeli nodded. Setting down her glass, Dionne rounded the bar to stand in front of him. She reached up and placed her hand on his upper arm. He flinched. “I realized that I made a mistake,” she said. “I should have married you.” “That was years ago.” “But my feelings haven’t changed. I still love you.” “I’ve moved on, Dionne.” “No, you haven’t. I know you’ve been single for the last two months.” “How do you know that?” “I have my sources.” He removed his hand and stepped away from 21
her. Once upon a time, he had wanted Dionne to come back to him. Now, he wasn’t sure. He rested his back against the wall next to the door. Dionne followed him. “I was young and naïve,” she said, when she stopped in front of him. “I didn’t know what I had in you. It was magical. We can have that again.” With a giggle, she reached out and curved her hand around his crotch. His cock didn’t move. “Remember how reckless we were?” she said. “I’ve missed this, Mikeli. I’ve missed you.” Standing on her tiptoes, Dionne pressed her lips against his.
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Scarlett’s stomach was in knots. She’d seen Mikeli’s lights on when she returned home from Veronica’s and decided to pay him a visit. After all, she needed to return his grandmother’s quilt. It was late, but he did say she was welcome at anytime. For what felt like years, she stood in the landing of her apartment, mentally going over her outfit choice: a purple tank top, jeans and sandals. “Fuck it,” she mumbled and opened the door. She was just returning a blanket. No need to get all dressed up. Venti Vicci’s lights were still on. Scarlett reached for the doorknob and was surprised to find it unlocked. The door squeaked when she pushed it open. Her suddenly dry mouth made it difficult for her to call his name. She looked to her left and froze. Mikeli was kissing an attractive woman. Reaching up to grip her shoulders, he pushed the woman away, but not fast enough. Scarlett saw the woman’s hand on his crotch. He said something to her in Greek, and then turned to face Scarlett. Scarlett’s heart ached. Truthfully, she had no reason to be upset he was kissing another woman, but a lump formed in her throat just the same. She stiffened when he walked 23
toward her. “I’m sorry,” Scarlett said. “I can come back.” “No. Your timing is perfect. Dionne was leaving.” Mikeli placed his hand on Scarlett’s lower back and guided her away from the door. He then held it open for the woman. Glancing at Scarlett, Dionne said something to Mikeli. Though Scarlett didn’t understand what Dionne said, she didn’t like her tone or how the woman looked at Scarlett with contempt. Scarlett squared her shoulders. “Go,” Mikeli said forcefully in English. Dionne turned on her heels and left the bar. Exhaling, Mikeli locked the door behind her. He turned to Scarlett. Despite her mixed emotions, her heart fluttered. “Do I want to know what she called me?” Scarlett asked. “No. And I must apologize. Dionne was a lover from my past. She had it in her head that we could pick up where we left off years ago, but that isn’t the case. She means nothing to me.” “You don’t have to explain anything.” “I do,” he said, moving toward her. “I don’t want us to start off with a series of misunderstandings. I am nothing if not honest.” Mikeli’s gaze was so sincere she had to look away. A new lump formed in her throat. 24
“I just wanted to drop this off,” Scarlett said, motioning to the quilt in her arms. “Thank you for letting me use it.” “You are most welcome. I’m glad it kept you warm.” Scarlett shrugged. “Yeah, well, not like another body would, but—” Taking the quilt, he chuckled. “True. Would you like a nightcap before bed?” “Sure.” Mikeli held out a stool for her. Scarlett sat. He put the quilt on a nearby table. As he rounded the bar, she looked around. The tavern was typically decorated with neon signs, wood and mirrors. However, it fit with who Mikeli seemed to be, in that it was a mix of old and new world charm. She watched him pour milk into a saucepan and place it on a hot plate. “Have you found artists for your gallery?” Mikeli asked. “Yes. I interviewed one this afternoon. She’s going to be my first show next month for the grand opening.” “That’s exciting news!” Leaning his elbows on the counter, he stared at her. The two top buttons on his red plaid shirt were open, exposing a strip of his dark chest hair and muscular pecs. Scarlett licked her lips. 25
“Thank you.” Mikeli reached out and covered her hand with his. Her skin prickled. “I promised you a ride through the countryside. Tomorrow is Sunday and I’m closed.” Scarlett shook her head. “I don’t have a bike.” “I have one you can use.” “Okay.” She pointed to his trophies. “Are you thinking of making a comeback?” Mikeli straightened and turned to fix their drinks. “No. I’m thinking of trying something new.” “Oh? What?” “A friend suggested I try out for a triathlon.” “Are you?” “Perhaps. If my knee will let me.” He sat two mugs on the bar. Scarlett inhaled the scent of mint and chocolate. “What’s in these?” she asked. “Milk. Chocolate. Peppermint liquor and bourbon.” “Yum. Are you trying to get me drunk?” Mischief flashed in Mikeli’s eyes as he reached for the whipped cream. Scarlett stopped breathing. Oh, why did he have to break that out? Shaking the can, he squirted the cream on the hot liquid. She gasped but quickly recovered. What she would give to strip off his clothes and squirt it all over his… 26
Scarlett noticed her question went unanswered. When he pulled out a jar of cherries, she almost slid off her stool. He chuckled. “One for you,” he said, placing the fruit on top of the melting cream. “And one for me.” Mikeli dragged the cherry through the cream and held it to her lips. Opening her mouth, Scarlett curled her tongue around the sweet fruit and snapped it off the stem. When cream stuck to her lip, she giggled. Leaning forward, he licked it off. Her clit throbbed. Damn it. She was two seconds from leaping over the bar. He pulled away and picked up his mug. “To tomorrow,” Mikeli said, tapping it to hers. “And the surprises it will bring.” Scarlett recaptured her breath and sipped her nightcap. She moaned. Morning couldn’t get there fast enough.
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Scarlett didn’t sleep a wink. The feeling of Mikeli’s tongue on her lips haunted her. And the fact that only a wall separated their bedrooms didn’t help. Only after she took matters into her own hands and satisfied the urge between her thighs could she rest. She was amazed she was up and ready at ten a.m. to meet Mikeli out front. Dressed in a green spaghetti-strap top and denim shorts, she tied a black hoodie around her waist and left the apartment. She skipped down the steps. Mikeli was waiting for her in front of Venti Vicci. He looked handsome in his gray polo shirt and khaki cargo shorts. “You look lovely this morning,” he said, handing her a helmet. “Thank you. I thought this was a casual ride. What’s with the helmets? And why are you wearing racing gloves?” He chuckled. “Safety first.” While she strapped the helmet around her chin, he retrieved a pink, green and yellow bike that was leaning against the building. The bike was as light as a feather. Scarlett imagined the black leather seat hugging Mikeli’s tight butt and swallowed. He held it 28
steady while she straddled the seat. “This was my first competition bike,” he said. “I won my first race with her.” “Wow. I still won’t be able to keep up with you.” Mikeli winked at her. “I’ll go slow.” He hooked a backpack around his shoulders. Straddling his own black and red bike, he set off down the street. Slow her ass. Mikeli was at the end of the block before she could get her feet on the pedals. Circling back, he rode beside her and held the handlebars. “You are rusty,” he commented. “It’s just like making love. How to do it will come back to you.” Scarlett glared at him. She didn’t need to be reminded just how long it’d been since she’d had sex. The seat rubbing her crotch didn’t help, either. Putting her head down, she grunted and pedaled as hard and fast she could. Soon, she was coasting down the cobblestone street. He let go of her bike and zipped ahead. An hour later, the quaint village landscape turned into a quiet countryside. Scarlett’s legs were becoming jelly. When Mikeli signaled they were going to take a pit stop, she couldn’t have been happier. Panting, she followed him to a spot that overlooked the ocean. “This is beautiful,” she said. 29
“It’s not what I wanted to show you, but it’s a good place for a snack.” From the backpack, he pulled out two bottles of grape-flavored sports drinks and a bag of trail mix. Scarlett took off her helmet. The warm sun pressed down on her shoulders. The air held a fresh, clean scent. A cruise ship glided by on the clear waters below them. “What brought you to Rhodes?” he asked. “A chance to start over.” “Thing weren’t going well in New York?” Scarlett sipped her drink. She shook her head and swallowed. Her legs wobbled. Sitting on the ground, she stretched them in front of her. He followed her lead. The closeness of his body comforted her. “No. I realized I was stuck in a job I didn’t want. My mother had died and I broke up with my fiancé.” “What happened?” “With my mom or fiancé?” “Both.” “My mom had breast cancer.” “I’m sorry.” He reached for and held her hand. “Thank you,” she said. “Why did you break up with your fiancé?” “I couldn’t stand him anymore.” Mikeli chuckled. He squeezed her hand. 30
“Seriously,” Scarlett said with sigh. “We had been together for five years. And one day, I walked in on him brushing his teeth. I’ve done it millions of times, but that day, I realized I couldn’t stand another minute of watching him do that. A month later, I called off the wedding.” “Wow.” She looked at him. “Your turn. I can’t believe a guy like you is single.” He smiled. “I’ve been married to my career for a long time. I haven’t met someone who could understand that.” “You will.” Mikeli gathered her into his arms. “I hope that I have.” Leaning forward, he pressed his lips against hers. The whiskers on his chin tickled her cheeks. His musky scent was just like the one on the quilt. Scarlett savored the taste of his mouth. The sensation of his tongue on hers was unlike any kiss she’d experienced. She wrapped her arms around his neck. Scarlett rolled back against the grass. Mikeli kneaded her breast through the material of her top, and she felt her nipple stiffen. He released her mouth to kiss her neck and suckled on the skin over her collarbone. Her heart beat strongly in her chest. Though her 31
story was different than Grace and Veronica’s, her need for him was no less urgent. She didn’t have to return to America because she was in Rhodes to stay. Yet she worried that there were more Dionnes out there. Did she have what it takes to keep a strapping professional athlete at her side? Straddling his thigh, she pressed her wet crotch against his leg. She writhed against his solid muscle. Scarlett threaded her fingers through his damp hair. Mikeli’s hands roamed her ass, her back. He pushed down the strap of her top to capture her nipple. His moist tongue danced on her skin. Groaning, he moved to lie between her thighs. The rise of his crotch rubbed against her clit. Scarlett gripped Mikeli’s shoulders, and wrapped her legs around his waist. Her climax fluttered down her spine. Arching into him, she let it go. The intensity of her orgasm brought tears to her eyes. If dry humping him made her this emotional, how would she react when they were naked? She glanced away, but Mikeli brought her line of vision back to his. “I’m sorry,” she whispered. “Don’t apologize. Your body needed the release. I’m honored to provide it.” Mikeli twisted onto his side and gathered her in his arms. Scarlett closed her eyes. She fought off the notion he was too good to be true, and dozed in the 32
warm afternoon sun until it was time to ride back to town.
33
Three weeks later, Mikeli sat at his dining room table and stared at the entry form in front of him. It was for a triathlon race which was two months away. According to his trainer, Mikeli was coming along fine, and the trainer had suggested, or rather ordered him to enter. With an exhale, he filled out his name and address. He wasn’t worried about finishing, or even winning, the race. The problem was that this race was in California. If he decided to continue with it as a career, he’d have to move to Arizona and train until the Olympic qualifying races began. Those were six months from now. With a heavy sigh, Mikeli ran the palm of his hand over his face. Things with Scarlett were going well. But would she understand why he’d have to go away? And would she be here when he got back? A knock sounded at his front door. Mikeli glanced at the clock on his kitchen wall. Eight p.m. He wasn’t expecting anyone but hoped it was Scarlett. They hadn’t had time to schedule another date since the bike ride. Clad in only a white towel that was wrapped around his waist, he rushed down the stairs and opened the door. 34
His breath stilled. She was a vision in a simple white T-shirt and pink sweatpants. Her dark hair was pulled into a bun. The curve of her full mouth begged him to kiss her, and he did. “I hope it’s not too late. I wanted to bring you dinner,” she said. “It’s never too late for you to drop by. I was about to decide what to eat. You’ve saved me.” Mikeli took the casserole dish and led her up the stairs to his apartment. After setting the dish on the kitchen counter, he collected her in his arms and pressed his lips against hers. “I’ve missed you,” she confessed, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I know you’re busy training, but I wanted to see you.” “As have I, dear Scarlett. What have you prepared for dinner?” “Lasagna. I’m sure Stephano will be proud of me.” Mikeli laughed. With one final kiss, he released her to get plates from the cabinet. Jazz flowed from the radio while he dished up the meal. He briefly thought about covering his nude body but decided against it. The way she looked at him while he moved around the kitchen sent a shiver down his spine. She almost knocked over her wineglass when he turned to bring the plates to the table. He chuckled. 35
While they ate, he learned more about Scarlett’s life. She was an only child. Her parents had divorced when she was eleven but remained close, though her father had remarried. Mikeli, in turn, told her of his father being mayor of the village and the villagers wanting Mikeli to continue in his father’s footsteps. He declined. Not only because of the upcoming Olympics that year but because he didn’t think he was worthy of the honor. The people named him honorary mayor, anyway. Scarlett’s face lit up as he spoke of his humble upbringing. By the time he ended his tale, they were finished with their dinner. He reached for her hand. It was refreshing to be with a woman who wasn’t interested in him for his money or his status. One of his favorite songs, a bluesy rendition of “A Song for You,” came on the radio right at that moment. “Would you like to dance?” he asked. She nodded. “Sure.” They moved to the living room. When he wrapped his arms around her waist, butterflies swirled in his stomach. It was a sensation he had never experienced before. He took notice of the way his heart fluttered, of the lightness of his limbs, and his soul, as he held Scarlett. Her soft touch on his bare shoulder sent a jolt of electricity to his cock. Closing his eyes, he inhaled her coconut-scented 36
aroma. With her head on his shoulder, she swayed in rhythm with him. Mikeli’s cock pressed against her hip. His arousal wasn’t going to go away, and he didn’t want it to. Leaning away from her, he tilted her face toward his and swept her mouth in a kiss. Scarlett’s soft, pliable lips illuminated the darkness he had encased his heart in when Dionne left. As the song ended, Mikeli discovered his desire to open his heart to Scarlett. “I’ve missed you,” Scarlett confessed against his shoulder. “I know you’re busy training, but I wish I could spend more time with you.” Mikeli smiled. He wanted to make love to her, very slowly, until their bodies melted together. In a flash, he remembered how he’d once broken his rule of “no sex before a race” with Dionne, and the results were disastrous. Although he couldn’t blame losing the race on the one night of passion, he didn’t want to take that chance again. However, his desire for Scarlett consumed him, the way fire consumed wood, and he wasn’t ready to say good-bye to her tonight. Or, possibly, ever. “Will you stay the night?” he asked her. “Of course.”
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Chirping birds greeted Scarlett when she woke the next morning. Instead of going home, she’d spent the night in Mikeli’s arms. Yesterday’s late dinner had been her attempt to seduce him, but that hadn’t worked. Despite her desire to, and the tent that had formed in his towel, they hadn’t made love. Maybe she should have been clearer about the fact that she wanted him. Now it was Sunday, and he was off today. There was plenty of time for her to make the first move. Scarlett turned onto her back. The clock on his nightstand read eight a.m. After a brief stretch, she sat up in bed. The bathroom faucet was running, and Mikeli was humming off tune. Smiling, she got out of bed and made her way toward the sound. At the entrance to the bathroom, she stopped. Mikeli was naked. He hummed as he leaned against the pedestal sink to brush his teeth. Her gaze flowed over his smooth olive skin that was bathed by the sunlight streaming through the open window. His toned body was a work of art. Her heart fluttered. She could spend the rest of her life watching him brush his teeth, and she wanted to do just that. His high, muscular ass beckoned her to touch it, 38
but she remained rooted in place. He bent to spit out the white foam. While reaching for a towel to wipe his mouth, he caught her watching him. “I hope I didn’t wake you,” Mikeli said. “I wanted to clean up after my run. Perhaps we can go to the harbor for brunch?” Turning, he moved toward her. Scarlett’s breath caught in her throat as she watched every muscle of his body work. Mikeli tossed the towel aside and stopped in front of her. Her gaze travelled down his statuesque physique to his flaccid, tan cock that was nestled in a tuft of dark curls. Her mouth watered. It wasn’t just lust that caused her to reach out and touch his cock. Scarlett traced the tip with trembling fingers, massaging the soft muscle until it hardened against the palm of her hand. The desire to have him inside of her was strong. “Um…” she began. “Yes?” “I know you have rules and all, but can’t we break them? Just this one time?” Scarlett tilted her head back to look into his eyes. Mikeli’s hazel eyes were ablaze with desire. One thing she knew for sure was they weren’t going to be leaving the apartment for a few hours. Releasing her hold on his cock, she touched his waist to steady herself. She stood on her toes and brushed her lips against his. 39
That single kiss sparked an avalanche of emotion within Scarlett. And she knew that this was the man she’d been searching her whole life for. She wrapped her arms around his neck to pull him closer. The taste of his mouth was minty and sweet on her tongue. Without releasing her mouth, Mikeli backed her into the bedroom and maneuvered her to the bed. He pulled away briefly to pull her top over her head. Her calves hit the side of the mattress. Moaning, she shoved her pants and panties down her hips. Finally Scarlett lay back on the mattress and parted her thighs for him. Mikeli paused. Leaning back, his gaze swept her heaving breasts, smooth abs, and the strip of dark hair covering her pussy before he shoved his cock into her. Scarlett gripped his toned arms. The rhythm of his thrusts was slow and deliberate. This wasn’t a race that he needed to win. Her heart and her body were already his. “You’re bad,” he whispered. “The race is still three weeks away.” “I know. Yet how can I concentrate on that when your pussy feels so amazing?” Though his breath was hot on her shoulder, she shivered. His thick cock stretched the walls of her slick pussy to capacity. He, too, felt amazing. Or maybe it was the both of them together that ignited the embers 40
within her. Never before had she felt so complete. Scarlett threaded her fingers through his dark tresses and looked into his eyes. Sunlight from the window danced in his hazel irises. She was a goner. There was no turning back from this point. Mikeli was hers. “I could spend my life making love to you,” he whispered against her temple. “Then do it.” With each thrust, the bed swayed beneath them. Mikeli’s cock massaged her pussy with a mixture of gentleness and force. She did her best to hold on to him by wrapping her arms around his neck, but felt herself slipping away. Her mind took her back to the day of the cliff, when he’d brought her to orgasm without even being inside her. Scarlett now arched her back in response to the earthquake that rattled her inner core. Mikeli’s hips pounded against hers. His breath was ragged. Sweat splashed on her cheek and mixed with her tears. “Mikeli…” was all she was able to whisper before the wave hit. Scarlett’s climax rushed out of her body. This was no mere orgasm, but one that she’d been waiting her whole life to experience by the man she was meant to spend her life with. And that man was Mikeli. “My dear Scarlett,” he said. “I can’t wait any 41
longer.” “Don’t.” Releasing his neck, her hands flowed down his back to curve around his hips and hold him firmly in place. She wanted to experience the full impact of him coming inside her. His cock flexed against the opening of her pussy. He pushed up on his hand to drive his dick deep inside her. Mikeli grunted. Soon, his love flowed into her core. Only now, when he twisted onto his side and gathered her in his arms, did Scarlett feel remorse. Would Mikeli be mad at her for making him break his rule of no sex before a race? And what if he lost next week? Would he blame her for it? “I’m sorry,” she whispered against his chest. “You have nothing to be sorry for,” he said, stroking her back. “What if you lose?” “I won’t.” Scarlett smiled. “Are you always this confident?” “Yes. Truthfully, I couldn’t wait to make love to you.” Closing her eyes, she listened to his heart beat. The quiet morning ticked away. Her stomach rumbled with hunger. She wished the village had a bakery or some kind of café where she could pop in and pick up breakfast. But nothing would rouse her from Mikeli’s 42
arms. Desire for him made her open her eyes. His dark nipple came into focus, and she traced it with her trembling index finger. He stirred long enough to pull her closer to him. Moistening her lips with her tongue, she worked up the nerve to ask him a question. “Can we do it again?” Chuckling, Mikeli pulled her on top of him. Scarlett straddled his hips. In reply to her question, he guided his cock inside her.
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Two weeks later, Mikeli entered Scarlett’s spacious art gallery with a heavy heart while butterflies swirled in his stomach. He had easily won his first triathlon in Athens that was his test run, but he hadn’t had the chance to talk with Scarlett about his plan to move to Phoenix, where he would begin training for the Olympics. Putting off such a conversation was no longer an option. He would need to leave within the next two weeks to give his body time to adjust before the Games. Tonight, he decided, was the night. That was, if her beauty didn’t distract him first. Stopping a few feet inside of the entrance, Mikeli watched Scarlett scrutinize the paintings that adorned her walls. The local artist Scarlett was featuring for the grand opening of her gallery specialized in abstract images. Vibrant slashes of red, yellow, and black adorned the canvas that Scarlett studied. She tilted her head to the side. Mikeli shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans. His gaze traveled down her slender back. The green off-the-shoulder jumpsuit she wore invited him to plant kisses on her creamy skin. As he moved toward her, Mikeli peeled off his gray T-shirt and dropped it on the floor. He 44
moved directly behind her and kissed the back of her neck. She leaned against him. “Mikeli,” she sighed. “Someone could walk in.” “Officially, you’re still closed until this weekend.” “I know. But…” “Frankly, dear Scarlett, I don’t give a damn.” Mikeli bent and swept her up in his arms. Scarlett’s chorus of giggles sent a shiver straight to his cock. He pressed his lips against her and kissed her, passionately, for a long time. When he leaned away, her dark eyes sparkled. His heart fluttered. It was a sensation he’d never experienced before. “I’m sorry,” he said, laughing. “I’ve wanted to say that ever since I met you.” “I don’t mind.” In his mind, he knew he should put Scarlett down, but he didn’t want to. He liked the feel of her in his arms. Mikeli kissed her again, and then sat her on her feet. “I love you,” he confessed. Those weren’t the words he had wanted to say, but he could use them to cushion the blow. Scarlett’s face softened. Instead of replying, she closed the distance between them and pressed her lips against his. The front door squeaked open, announcing the arrival of a visitor. Breaking apart, they turned to see who it was. 45
Dionne stood in the doorway. An orange dress covered her lithe body. Her dark curls were fanned around her shoulders. Rolling her eyes at Scarlett, she smiled at Mikeli. “Your employees said I could find you here,” she said in Greek. “I saw you on television. And in the paper when they did a story about your first race. Congratulations.” “Thank you,” he replied in English. It would be rude of him to answer Dionne in Greek in Scarlett’s presence. Dionne was fluent in English as well. “You remember my girlfriend, Scarlett? Perhaps you should say hello.” Dionne flinched. She looked at Scarlett before turning her gaze to him. Her eyes openly swept Mikeli’s bare chest. He picked up his shirt and put it on. “We need to talk,” Dionne said, again in Greek, stepping into the gallery. “We have nothing to say to each other.” “You can’t dismiss what we had together so easily.” “I can,” he said. His voice was calm and even. “Because you left me. I’ve moved on. You just can’t let me be happy, can you?” “No. Not without me.” Dionne had switched to English. “I love you. We can be happier together. We 46
can share your success together. After all, I’m the one who helped you get there.” Dionne strode toward him and placed a hand on the center of his chest. Grasping her wrist, Mikeli pushed her hand aside and moved to Scarlett’s side. Scarlett visibly trembled, he assumed out of anger. He didn’t blame her. Dionne had overstepped her bounds. Mikeli moved to usher Dionne out of the gallery, and his life, when Scarlett stepped in front of him. Placing her hands on her hips, Scarlett addressed Dionne. “I think it’s pathetic that you keep throwing yourself at someone who no longer wants you.” “You don’t know what you’re talking about,” Dionne countered. “I know everything. Mikeli’s told me all about you and your relationship. You didn’t want him back then. You’re only showing up now because he’s successful again.” “That’s not true…” “I think it is. Anyway, he told you he wants you to leave him alone. And my gallery is closed. It’s time for you to leave.” Scarlett walked around Dionne to open the front door. Dionne looked at Mikeli, who crossed his arms over his chest. “I think you heard the lady,” he said. 47
Dionne’s mouth fell open, but she closed it. Turning on her heels, his former lover left the gallery without another word. Mikeli smirked. It warmed his heart that Scarlett had stood up for him. He would have done the same if the roles were reversed, except with a lot more punches being thrown. Slamming the door, Scarlett locked it before turning to look at him. “The nerve of that woman,” she fussed. “Coming up in my place and trying to get my man like I’m not even here.” “I’m sorry.” She waved off his apology. “You have nothing to be sorry about. I trust you.” “Thank you.” Scarlett moved away from the door. Stopping in front of him, she wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her forehead on his chest. Mikeli held her for a few moments. Then he picked her up, flung her over his shoulder and carried her upstairs to the bedroom.
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It was just after twelve thirty a.m. when Scarlett awoke in Mikeli’s arms. She couldn’t sleep because she was excited about her gallery opening this weekend. Her father Rod and his wife, Mona, were flying to Greece for the occasion. Scarlett was nervous about him meeting Mikeli. While she was sure her father was going to like Mikeli, she was afraid of introducing them only to break up with Mikeli soon after. But that wasn’t going to happen to them. Right? Scarlett glanced over her shoulder at him. One arm was curled around her waist, while the other was draped across his eyes. The moonlight bathed his skin in tones of white light. Quietly, she slipped out of his embrace and got out of bed. She tiptoed into the other room, where she retrieved her sketchpad and pencils. Using the moonlight from the window as her light source, she sat naked in a chair beside the bed and sketched Mikeli’s sleeping form. An hour later, he stirred when his arm brushed against her bare feet propped up on the side of the bed. “What are you doing?” he mumbled. “Capturing you in pencil.” “Can I see?” “Not until I’m finished.” 49
Mikeli twisted onto his side and turned on the bedside lamp. He sat up. Scarlett could tell by the expression on his face that he wanted to tell her something. Instead of pushing him, she waited for the bad news. Her hands trembled, making her once precise lines jagged. “I have to tell you something,” he said after clearing his throat. He ran his hands through his dark hair. “Okay…” “I’m going to Arizona to train for the Olympics.” “That’s exciting!” Scarlett paused. Wait a minute. If he was going to Arizona, that meant he wouldn’t be here in Rhodes. With her. Suddenly, she felt sick to her stomach. She looked to him for confirmation. “I’ll be gone for at least a year,” he said softly. “So, you’re going to live there?” “Yes.” She stabbed the page with her pencil so hard the point broke off. Tossing it and her sketchbook on the floor, she sat back in her chair. Tears threatened to fall, but she wouldn’t let them. Making an Olympic comeback was his dream. Could she be so selfish as to stand in his way? “Why Arizona?” she asked. “Why can’t you train here?” 50
“It’s a state-of-the-art facility that my mentor runs,” he continued. “I can train year round, because of the weather. My mentor has coached five gold medalists, and he thinks I can be another.” Scarlett frowned. “But, you’ll still be representing Greece?” He nodded. “The time trials are six months from now. That’s why I need to start right away.” Mikeli paused to take in a deep breath before he continued. “I need to focus on training. Here, there are too many distractions.” “Like what?” Mikeli gazed at her bare breasts. “Those are two big distractions. Instead of lifting weights, I’ll be thinking of how I want to suckle on your dark nipples until you scream.” She bit her lip. “Can I visit you?” “Of course.” “Naked?” He smirked. “I insist on it.” “And you’ll make love to me?” “Every chance I get.” Scarlett put her feet on the floor. She slid off her chair and crawled into bed with him. When he wrapped his arms around her, she burst into tears. His lips brushed against the crown of her head. “I don’t want you to go,” she confessed. “But I’d 51
be selfish to stand in the way of your dream.” “I love you,” he whispered. “I love you, too. And you’d better win a damn medal.” Mikeli chuckled. The rumble of his chest against her cheek brought new tears to Scarlett’s eyes. Now she understood the torment Grace and Veronica must have gone through when they were faced with the same dilemma. Scarlett had hoped she would be spared this, but alas, she was wrong. Clinging to Mikeli, she closed her eyes and prayed she’d have the strength to say good-bye.
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The grand opening of Brush Strokes was a blacktie affair. While Mikeli was proud of Scarlett, he was in no mood to celebrate. Tomorrow, he’d be on a plane to Phoenix, Arizona. His mentor had arranged for Mikeli to stay with him, but Mikeli was beginning to have second thoughts about leaving. Maybe he was jumping the gun, as his former American coach would say. Maybe his relationship with Scarlett and training for the Olympics was too much for him to handle at the same time. Mikeli accepted a glass of champagne from a passing server. When he did, he caught a glimpse of Scarlett. She was across the room, talking with a local reporter. Her pink dress highlighted her tawny skin, while her long, dark curls were pinned behind one ear and held with an orchid. The flower was part of a bouquet he had given her this morning as a gift. Looking around, he spotted Grace and Evander in the crowd, as well as Veronica and Stephano. His mother and sisters were also present, but his gaze went back to Scarlett. How he wished that he could spend his last few hours with her alone and naked instead of in a crowded room. “She’s beautiful. Isn’t she?” 53
He turned toward the male voice. Rod Possi, Scarlett’s father, stood on his left. Rod was a former professional basketball player and towered over Mikeli’s six foot three inch height. During his talks with Rod, Mikeli discovered that he and Rod held many of the same qualities. They were both honest and strong-willed men who loved Scarlett dearly. “Yes sir, she is,” Mikeli answered. Rod studied him. “Do we need to have a talk about your intensions?” Mikeli chuckled. “No sir. Your daughter is very special to me. I care deeply for her.” “Good. She’s my only child. If you hurt her, I’ll kick your ass.” Mikeli wasn’t unnerved by Rod’s comment because he understood completely. If he ever had a daughter, he’d be the same way. He sipped his wine. Since when did he think about being a father? That wasn’t like him. In the past, he hadn’t had a desire to have a family of his own. His schedule wouldn’t allow it. As he returned from his thoughts to the present, he noticed that Rod was being led away by Mona and Scarlett was heading toward him. “I was on my way to rescue you.” She laughed. “But Mona beat me to it.” “We were just having a man-to-man 54
conversation,” he said. Scarlett kissed Mikeli on his lips. When she leaned away, she adjusted his bow tie. Her warm body in his arms ignited his desire. He inhaled her fresh scent, wondering how he was going to convince her to slip away with him for a few minutes. “I must say, you clean up well,” she said. “Thank you. You’re not too shabby yourself.” She smiled and rested her hands on his chest. “I’m glad you’re here,” she admitted. “I was so nervous. I still am.” He pulled her to him, and kissed her nose. “You’re amazing,” he whispered. She smiled. Her eyes sparkled as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “I’m amazing because of you,” Scarlett said. Mikeli leaned forward and pressed his lips against hers. His cock throbbed. Her father had been staying in her apartment while she stayed with Mikeli. It was difficult to be intimate with her when their bedrooms shared a wall. Struck with inspiration, he released her. Mikeli took her hand and pulled her outside the gallery into the small hallway that led up to her apartment. When she realized what he was doing, she hesitated. “But…” Mikeli silenced her by backing her against a wall 55
and pressing his lips against hers. Reaching for the material that covered Scarlett’s thighs, he scrunched up her skirt and held it above her waist. Her nimble fingers freed his hard cock while he tore the crotch of her panties. In no time, he was shoving his cock inside of her. Scarlett’s warm pussy welcomed him, expanding to accommodate his thickness. Mikeli reached behind her and curved his hands around her ass to lift her slightly. The angle allowed the base of his cock to rest against her clit. Moaning, Scarlett gripped his shoulders. She tilted her face back, allowing him to press his lips against her throat. “I’ll miss you,” Scarlett whispered. “Don’t forget about me.” “I’ll never forget you.” Mikeli’s heart clenched. He worried that Scarlett would be the one to forget about him. Would she? She was a beautiful woman and could have her pick of men. His thoughts led him back to the day at the cliff when she’d told him she grew bored with her last love. What if the absence made her feel the same about him? That couldn’t happen. He’d have to do something to make sure of that. Scarlett’s moan brought him back to the task at hand. Her pussy clenched around his cock. The momentum of his hard thrusts slammed her back into 56
the wall. Releasing her, Mikeli set Scarlett on her feet and moved her to the stairwell. She bent over, resting her hand one of the steps while he took her from behind. The opening of her pussy massaged the base of his cock. Groaning, he buried his face in the curve of her neck and tried to hold back his eruption. “You’re gonna make me come before I want to,” he whispered against her ear. Then he pulled her earlobe between his lips and sucked on it. “Not my fault.” “Oh, it is, dear Scarlett.” His voice quivered. “If your pussy weren’t so…I’d be able to control my actions.” “Don’t. Just fuck me.” Mikeli leaned back. He held her hips steady while he rammed his cock deep in her core. Scarlett flinched, but soon arched into his hips. When her body stiffened, signaling her imminent release, so did his. The sound of their shared climax filled the combined space of the hallway. His sac clenched as his sperm rushed out of him and into her cavity. “Damn,” he groaned. Scarlett giggled. An approaching voice caused them to separate quickly. While straightening his clothing, Mikeli peeked around the corner. Two gallery patrons had lost their way, but were quickly ushered back inside by another guest. With a sigh of relief, 57
Mikeli spun around and gathered Scarlett in his arms. Her smile faded. “This is hard,” she whispered. “I don’t want to say good-bye to you. Even for a short time.” “I understand. That’s why I don’t want you to drop me off at the airport.” “I’m going to miss you.” “I miss you already, Scarlett.” Mikeli pulled her to his chest. He held her while her tears dotted the front of his shirt. Closing his eyes, he refused to let her see his. Since he was leaving, he had to be the strong one.
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Two months later… Brush Strokes was closed on this rainy Sunday. The dark mood outside matched the one that raged inside Scarlett. Her living room had also become her art studio. She started at the blank canvas in front of her. Inspiration had eluded her for the last hour. With a sigh, she tossed her brush in a tin can. Scarlett wandered to her sofa and sat down. Her body ached. The pains might be from arranging the art on her galleries walls this morning. However, she suspected her aches were also caused by the new life that was growing inside of her. With tears in her eyes, she touched her belly through her black T-shirt. Outside her apartment window, the sun was setting over the village. It was dinnertime, but Scarlett was in no mood to eat. On nights like this, she particularly missed Mikeli. Though they had talked until the wee hours of this morning, she didn’t have the nerve to tell him she was pregnant. Three weeks after Mikeli left for America, she found out she was expecting. Scarlett was scared, partly because she didn’t know how he’d react, and also because she didn’t want to distract him from his Olympic goals. She had to tell 59
him something soon. This wasn’t something she could hide for much longer. Mikeli was planning to visit her next month. Her phone rang. Thinking it was Mikeli, her heart fluttered when she picked it up without looking at the caller ID. “Hey, sweetie,” Veronica said. “Have you eaten?” “No. I’m not really hungry.” Veronica tsked her. “You’re eating for two, you know.” “Yeah, but—” “Come over to Ciao Bella, my treat.” Scarlett frowned. She wasn’t up for being in public or for company. “I don’t think—” “I understand your hesitation,” Veronica said gently, but her voice was stern. “But I’m not going to let you barricade yourself in your apartment. We love you and we are here for you. Don’t make me drag you across the street by your hair.” Scarlett sighed. There was no arguing with Veronica. “Fine.” “And wear something nice.” Scarlett cringed as she hung up the phone. There was no turning back now. She slowly showered and changed into a white halter dress, styling her hair into a loose bun. As she bent to put on her white sandals, she glanced at her empty bed. Picking up the phone, she dialed Mikeli’s number but got his voice mail. 60
Without leaving a message, she hung up and tried to gather her composure. Her tears blurred her vision as she made her way out of the apartment and across the quiet village street to the restaurant. Veronica greeted her at the door. She immediately pulled Scarlett into a tight embrace. “You look radiant,” Veronica said when she finally released Scarlett. Scarlett tried her best to smile but failed. “Thanks.” “Come. Some lobster scaloppini will make you feel better.” As much as she loved Stephano’s meals, Scarlett doubted even that could make her feel better. Still, she allowed Veronica to pull her through the lobby into the dining area. Scarlett noticed the candles first. White tapered ones adorned the table in front of her. Pillar candles surrounded the table on stands. The table itself was covered with white fabric and set for two. Two? Scarlett glanced down. That was when she saw the rose petals. The red leaves were scattered over the tiled floor. She looked to Veronica for confirmation, but her best friend was gone. In her place, leaning against the bar, was Mikeli. She watched him push off of the bar and walk toward her. He wore a white suit with a white shirt 61
that was open at the collar and loafers. Mikeli still sported his goatee and mustache, though he had said just last night that he was going to shave it off to increase his wind resistance. “My God,” he said, taking her hand. “You’re even more beautiful than I remembered.” Scarlett wrapped her arms around his neck and covered his handsome face with kisses. Within seconds it began to register in her brain that he was here, in Rhodes. She pulled back and looked into his eyes. “What are you doing here?” she asked. “I missed you.” “Where were you last night when we talked?” “In Athens,” he confessed. Scarlett playfully tapped him on his shoulder. “You dirty rat! Why didn’t you tell me?” Mikeli chuckled at her question. Releasing her, he walked toward a window and stared out into the darkness. Scarlett followed. She wanted to touch him but didn’t dare. Even though he’d felt real in her arms just moments ago, she feared this was all a dream. “I thought it was what I wanted,” Mikeli began, his voice so low in octave, she had to move closer in order to hear him. “To be a professional athlete again. Win another Olympic medal.” Scarlet frowned. “It’s not?” 62
He shook his head. “As soon as I got there, it didn’t feel right. I mean, Coach Reinhardt is an amazing trainer. But I realized my priorities aren’t the same as they once were.” Mikeli turned to look at her. Scarlett’s breath caught in her throat. When she reached out and touched his biceps with her left hand, he covered her hand with his. She couldn’t tell if his hand was shaking or hers. “What made you realize that?” she inquired. For Mikeli to give up his goal at the drop of a hat was not like him. She stiffened. Did he know about the baby? “It was one morning,” he said. “I was brushing my teeth and you were in the doorway watching me. It was in that moment that I realized that I needed to be with you. Here. Tending my bar. Perhaps wearing my mayor hat once in a while.” Scarlett smiled. “That sounds perfect.” Mikeli frowned. “There’s only one problem.” She swallowed hard. “What’s that?” “This finger,” he said, stroking her left ring finger. “It’s empty. But I’ve got just the thing for it.” Taking her hand, Mikeli held it while he dropped to his knees. He pulled a small white box from his pants pocket. Scarlett gasped. “Mikeli…” “Scarlett. The moment I saw you in this very 63
room, I knew you were going to change my life. And you have, for the better. I can’t imagine spending another day without you by my side. Will you marry me?” A lump had formed in Scarlett’s throat. She couldn’t speak, so she nodded her answer. Mikeli let go of her hand to open the box and remove the ring. His hand trembled as he slid it on her finger. Scarlett tilted her hand toward the light. The ring was her favorite stone, a ruby, surrounded by diamonds. Suddenly, Scarlett found her voice and screamed. “I’m pregnant!” The smile disappeared from Mikeli’s face. He slowly climbed to his feet. Holding her at arm’s length, he simply stared at her. Oh. Shit. Scarlett began to panic. This wasn’t the way she’d wanted to tell him, but she couldn’t take the words back now. “What?” Mikeli asked. “I’m pregnant. You’re gonna be a father.” Mikeli scooped her up into his arms and spun her around in a circle. “This is incredible news!” “Are you happy?” Scarlett asked. “I mean, really?” Mikeli stopped spinning. He looked into her eyes for a long time before hoisting her onto his shoulder and leaving the restaurant. 64
“Let me show you how happy I am.”
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Four months later… The couple decided to knock out the wall between their two apartments to create a large fourbedroom home above their businesses. In the meantime, they were staying in the newly built Welcome Inn. While the inn was owned by Stephano, it was being run by his brother Sergio. Around nine p.m., Scarlett was stretched out on the sofa in the one-bedroom suite. An oscillating fan was pointed directly at her, but it still wasn’t enough air to keep her cool. The air conditioner had broken down a few weeks after they moved in, and she was miserable. Unseasonably hot temperatures had plagued the village for the last three nights. Normally she could get by with just the windows open, but not this evening. The baby shifted from the left side of her belly to the right. She closed her eyes. While they didn’t know what they were expecting, Scarlett’s intuition told her she was having a girl. Scarlett smiled when the baby settled against her arm. “I still like Maria,” Mikeli shouted from the small kitchen area. 66
Opening her eyes, Scarlett wrinkled her nose. “It’s pretty, but she doesn’t feel like a Maria.” Mikeli returned, carrying a mug of his special nightcap. This one didn’t contain alcohol. Even though the drink was warm, she craved the drink each night and couldn’t sleep without it. Neither could the baby. After handing her the mug, he sat beside her. Reaching out his hand, he tenderly stroked her belly. Because she didn’t want to everyone to be staring at her belly as she walked down the aisle, they’d had a civil ceremony in Athens but were planning a larger wedding after the baby arrived. “Are you sure it’s a girl? What if you’re wrong?” he asked. “I’m the one who’s been carrying her around for the past six months. I know. And your mother agrees with me.” Chuckling, he kissed her temple. “In that case… How about Juliet?” “No. Too ordinary.” Mikeli sighed. “Fine. You pick.” Scarlett sipped her drink. “I had a dream the other night. In it, she said her name was Wrynn.” “I like it. But my vote is for Isabella.” Smiling despite herself, Scarlett rolled her eyes. She looked down at her mug and realized something was missing. When she looked up, Mikeli was shaking 67
the can of whipped cream. His hazel eyes flashed a devious glance in her direction. He stood up and extended a hand her way. “The cherries are already on the nightstand,” he teased her. Scarlett took his hand. Mikeli pulled her to her feet and guided her to the queen-sized bed.
To read more about the characters connected to this book, check out the following stories: Midnight Muse by R.W. Shannon (Grace and Evander) Designing Hearts by R. W. Shannon (Veronica and Stephano)
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R.W. Shannon is a native of the East Coast but spent six years in the desert before returning to her place of birth. She became a librarian so that she can walk around with her nose in a book without ridicule and also for the free books. When she’s not belly dancing or getting another tattoo, she can be found in the kitchen of her mother’s house until she gets her own. A member of Romance Writers’ Association and Passionate Ink, she is always at work on another project. In addition to Beautiful Trouble Publishing, her books can be found at Cobblestone Press and Phaze Books. Please check out her website rwshannonbooks.net for more information or email her at
[email protected].
