Waking Annabel

A novel or romantic erotica by

Cincinnati, Ohio

Jayelle Drewry

6470A Glenway Avenue, #109 Cincinnati, OH 45211-5222

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. eBook ISBN 1-59426-546-1 Waking Annabel © 2005 by Jayelle Drewry 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. Edited by Kathryn Lively Cover art © 2005 by Stacey L. King Phaze is an imprint of Mundania Press, LLC.

www.Phaze.com

2

Waking Annabel

Prologue

Leaning back in his chair, Jason stretched his legs under the table and glanced around the hotel lounge. The band onstage murdered a Garth Brooks song as smoke from countless cigarettes hung low in the air. It was early yet, only nine o'clock, and the room was not quite full. By midnight it would be hard to move through the crowd, and breathing would be almost impossible. This was not the place he would have chosen to have a business meeting. The smoke, the noise, and the crowd did nothing to promote a healthy business relationship. He briefly considered walking out and not meeting with the president of A. & A. Sullivan Designs, but the only thing that kept him there was the work of the design company. Without a doubt, the work of what was one of the best up-and-coming interior design firms in the southeast was what he needed for his next housing development. He leaned forward and grasped the longneck bottle in front of him. The beer was warm and he grimaced with the last swallow. He signaled the waitress for another. After the waitress placed another beer in front of him, he continued his study of the room. This time a corner table caught his eye. A lone figure sat at a table for two in the utmost corner of the bar, where the lighting was extremely dim. He wouldn't have noticed her if she hadn't been so still. There was no movement. No foot keeping time with the music. No drumming fingers. The woman sat with 3

Jayelle Drewry her back to the wall, facing the doorway. She was obviously waiting for someone, because she hadn't taken her eyes off the door. Jason leaned back in his chair, wedged the bottle between his jean-clad thighs, and made himself comfortable. The lone woman in the corner of the bar slipped to the back of his mind as he once again wondered why he was sitting alone, in a meat market bar, waiting on a potential business associate. Sullivan Designs should be courting him; he was probably the biggest potential client they had yet to see. He decided that if Andrew Sullivan didn't appear in the next fifteen minutes, he was leaving. Fourteen minutes later, Andrew Sullivan appeared in the doorway with a woman on his arm. Jason's eyes narrowed as the couple approached his table. Sullivan was a good-looking man. His clothes were casual—neatly pressed khaki pants, blue short sleeve shirt, leather shoes—but screamed of money. His blond hair and lean build caught the eye of several women as he crossed the bar. The woman with him caught the eye of several men as well. But good taste had little to do with the close examination. Long, bleached blonde hair fell in a carefully contrived tangle down her back to sway against well-rounded hips in low-riding, skin-tight jeans. A scoop-necked, bright red T-shirt outlined her generous breasts and left nothing to the imagination. The rhythmic motion of her hips hypnotized most of the men at the bar as she made her way across the room. The couple came to a halt beside the table. Andrew stuck out his hand to Jason. All four chair legs hit the floor as Jason stood to shake hands. Concentrating on the man in front of him, he didn't glance at the woman beside him. "Jason! I hope we didn't keep you waiting long. We got caught up in traffic and just arrived. We had to check in late," Andrew said as he sat and raised his hand to get the waitress' 4

Waking Annabel

attention. Jason only nodded. He imagined Andrew was lying, he sounded too smooth, the line practiced. The couple had probably arrived early and had been screwing like minks in Andrew's hotel room until Andrew remembered the meeting. "You wouldn't have kept me waiting much longer. I was about to leave. I don't usually do business in a barroom, and when I'm the client I don't wait on the firm trying to gain my account." Jason was blunt. He didn't appreciate being kept waiting while these two got their thrills upstairs. Fucking was fucking, and business was business. The two didn't mix. Andrew sat up a little straighter at the blunt remark and became all business. He ordered a round of drinks and quickly sent the waitress on her way. He then cleared the area in front of him and placed the leather portfolio he had brought with him on the table. "Well then, I apologize. It will not happen again. Let's get started with the preliminary sketches you requested. I think you will be very pleased with what I have to show you." Andrew spread several drawings out on the table. For several moments, there was silence as Jason carefully studied the pictures before him. The artist was very talented, the designer a genius. Colors blended together to create an atmosphere of comfort and elegance. This was what he wanted. This would appeal to the young, middle-income couples that he wanted to attract to his new housing development. Andrew Sullivan might be an ass, but the work of his design firm was brilliant. While Jason studied the illustrations, he felt a bump underneath the table and looked down to see that the blond woman had slipped off her shoe and was running her foot up and Andrew's calf. Slowly, her foot inched its way up his leg to his 5

Jayelle Drewry thigh. Andrew shifted in his seat and frowned. Janice was not intimidated; it appeared she knew her man. She continued with her exploration of his inner thigh, up to the growing bulge between his legs. Disgusted, Jason returned to the plans. Andrew took a deep gulp of the drink in front of him and patted his shirt pocket for a smoke. Janice reached over and pulled one from the pack he produced. Putting it in her mouth, she leaned forward, her breasts all but spilling from her shirt, for a light. Once her cigarette was lit, Janice leaned back in her chair and smiled. "Are you the 'A. Sullivan' I see at the bottom of these illustrations?" Jason looked up from the pictures in his hands. Andrew cleared his throat. "No, that would be Annabel." "Annie and Andy?" Jason's lips quirked in amusement. He cocked an eyebrow and studied the woman sitting across the table from him, amazed that such talent could be found in such a creature. "Annabel?" The doubt was evident in his voice. Janice perked up at the question. With a twist of her lips she replied, "I'm Janice…" she paused for effect, "…the secretary. Annie is Andy's wife." She leaned back in her chair and waited for Jason's reaction. Refusing to give her the response she was looking for, Jason carefully studied her. She thrust out her chest at his close examination, appearing content to finally have both men focused on her. Lifting his eyes from her breasts, Jason turned his attention to Andrew, whose gaze was still focused on Janice's display. Curling his lip at such blunt stupidity, he briefly wondered why some men were led by their dicks. He wasn't surprised about the infidelity; it was a common enough event. But he was puzzled that such an intelligent and talented man would behave so foolishly, mixing business with pleasure. Andrew caught Jason's eye and, flushing, cleared his throat 6

Waking Annabel

and shot Janice a frown, no doubt realizing that they were jeopardizing a lucrative business deal. Jason didn't bother with either one of them, but turned his eyes back to the illustrations in his hands. *** Across the room, another pair of eyes studied Andrew and his companions. Annabel Sullivan sat alone in a dimly lit corner, two untouched mixed drinks melting in front of her. Not one to drink, she had ordered them in hope of blending in, pretending to wait for someone. A woman alone at a bar was an open invitation, and she didn't want anyone to think she was inviting attention. So far the ruse had worked, only one man had given her more than a second glance: the very man who sat at the table with her husband, and his mistress. She had doubted Andrew's fidelity, had been convinced that he was seeing someone. She had confronted him with her suspicions, and Andrew had accused her of not trusting him. Yet, some primitive woman's instinct had told her he was cheating. When this trip had come up, she had known he was up to no good. Futex, Inc was too large of a client not to want her along. When he had said he would do the presentation, she didn't need to be there…she knew. Now, before she left him for good, she wanted Andrew to know that she saw him, caught him. That it was a matter of trust, and he would never violate her trust again. That it was over. They were over. Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice shame on me… Andrew had been unfaithful before, so when he had started changing his habits—staying late for work, buying new clothes, sending her flowers—she suspected something. It was the same pattern as before. Last time she had never actually caught him, just confronted Andrew with her suspicions. He had broken down, confessed all, and begged her not to leave. Loving him, 7

Jayelle Drewry wanting to believe him, she had stayed. Now, before her eyes, he was doing what he had sworn he would never do again. With Janice, his secretary. How original. As she watched the table across the room, she picked up the mixed drink in front of her and took a sip. The strawberry daiquiri went down easily. Annabel had never been much of a drinker. Her father had been an alcoholic, her mother a teetotaler. Between the two of them she had a personal distaste for alcohol, but could tolerate being around it. Yet tonight the drinking somehow seemed easy, almost necessary to lend her the courage to do what she needed to do. By the time she finished the second one, the churning in her stomach had stopped and she had seen all she needed to see. Andrew couldn't deny it. Janice wouldn't deny it. Taking a deep breath, Annabel put down the empty glass and stood. Smoothing back her hair, she squared her shoulders and started across the bar. *** Jason looked up from the papers and felt an immediate clenching in his gut. Approaching the table was the most stunning woman he had ever seen. Auburn hair, braided in a simple French twist, gleamed like a new penny in the dim barroom lights. Almond shaped green eyes glowed from a classically beautiful face. Pale skin, with not a freckle or blemish, completed the vision. She looked like a cameo. This woman had the bone structure that would enable her to be as stunning at eighty as she was now. Looking pale and faintly sick, she came to a halt by their table. She stood at Andrew's elbow, slightly behind him. She was staring down at him, a look of contempt on her face. "Finally," Andrew grunted. "I'll have a rum and tonic, and the lady will have…" Andrew turned, a cross expression on his 8

Waking Annabel

face. His face paled on seeing the darker-haired woman, and he immediately removed his hand from Janice's thigh and stood. "Annabel! What a surprise! I had no idea you were planning to join us." Standing, he bent to kiss Annabel's lips, but she turned her head and his lips landed on her cheek instead. He quickly moved to pull out a chair for her. Smiling without humor, Annabel took the seat offered to her. "Andrew. This was such an important meeting that I thought I might join you in case there were any questions about the designs." Her voice was as cool as his. Jason was impressed by her composure. Jason stood, unable to speak, until Andrew pushed in her chair. "Mrs. Sullivan, I'm Jason O'Brien, CEO of Futex Construction." His deep voice reverberated in the silence. Green eyes met his across the table. Annabel offered her hand in a firm, quick shake. "Mr. O'Brien, what a pleasure to meet you. I'm Annabel Sullivan, Andrew's wife and partner." She spoke with a slight southern drawl that sent shivers down Jason's spine. Andrew Sullivan was a fool. If he didn't know it before, he knew it now that he had met the man's wife. Any man who would want someone like that cheap slut Janice when he already had a woman like Annabel in his bed was undoubtedly stupid. This was a woman of class, backbone, and intelligence. Jason decided Andrew was more than stupid, he was an idiot. "Mrs. Sullivan, I was just looking at your sketches. You are a very talented woman." Jason nodded to the papers in his hands. "Yes, Annabel is a very talented designer. I'm lucky to have her." Andrew shot a smile at Jason and casually put his arm across the back of Annabel's chair. 9

Jayelle Drewry Janice shifted in her seat and Jason caught the movement out of the corner of his eye. She had said nothing since Annabel's arrival, and Jason imagined she felt inadequate next to the other woman. In contrast to Annabel's delicate beauty, she looked like an overblown, soon to be fat, tasteless girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Janice tossed her hair over her shoulder, a well practiced move that threw her breast into prominence, and leaned forward to put out her cigarette. The ploy worked, all eyes were on her now. Smiling, Janice stood and ran her hands down her hips, smoothing nonexistent wrinkles from jeans too tight to wrinkle. Jason was amused by her attempt to regain their attention for her actions only emphasized how much Annabel outshone her. Curling her lips in a sultry smile, Janice addressed her audience. "Excuse me. I need to go to the little girls' room." Her voice was soft, kittenish. Turning, Janice put a provocative sway into her hips, as if she knew they would be watching, as she crossed to the restroom. An awkward silence descended in the wake of Janice's exit. As the silence extended, Jason wondered at the self-control of the woman across from him. A woman could only take so much and he imagined Annabel had reached her limit. It seemed she had done what she had set out to do and Jason wondered if having her suspicions confirmed lifted some of the weight from her shoulders? Or merely added to it. *** Taking a deep breath, Annabel addressed the two men seated before her. "Well, gentlemen, it's getting late. The drive from Savannah to Atlanta took a lot out of me. I need to check into the hotel—" "There's no need for that, I checked in earlier…" 10

Waking Annabel

Annabel's look was arctic, freezing his words into silence. "I prefer a room of my own." Her tone was final. She couldn't believe Andrew's audacity. Did he really think she would willingly step into his hotel room, the very room in which he and Janice had spent the day? Annabel stood, as did both men. "Mr. O'Brien, I'm glad you like the portfolio. I recommend you visit us in Savannah before you make a decision. We can show you some of our work firsthand that I'm sure you'll appreciate." Again, Jason took her hand in his. "Mrs. Sullivan, I would be delighted to see some of your current work. Now that it's settled, I think I will take my leave as well. I'll escort you to the elevators." Turning to collect her purse, Annabel dropped Jason's hand. With her purse tucked over her shoulder, she stepped back from the table. "I need to check in with the front desk." Her emotional control was beginning to waver. "Well then, I'll walk with you. The front desk is next to the elevators." Annabel nodded, and Jason walked around the table to stand beside her. Both turned to face Andrew. Jason didn't offer his hand. "Sullivan. I'll be in touch." "Good night, Andrew." Annabel's voice was smooth and even. None of the rage and hurt she felt on the inside was revealed in her voice. She wasn't sure she could make it much longer without breaking. Before Andrew could speak, or halt the two of them, Jason put his hand on the small of Annabel's back, and they left the bar. Strangely, in this moment of hurt, she felt a tingle at the 11

Jayelle Drewry warmth of his touch. She did her best to insure no awareness of him or his touch was reflected on her face. Janice was coming out of the restroom, and the three of them met at the entrance. "Andrew is waiting at the table, Janice. I'll see you at the office on Monday." Annabel didn't pause to give Janice an opportunity to respond. Jason held the door open and she sailed past the secretary. Annabel relied on Jason to direct her to the front desk. Maintaining her composure and holding back the pain of betrayal took all of her strength. Lost in her own thoughts, she was barely aware of the man at her side, much less where they were headed. With some surprise she realized they were standing in front of the reservation desk. Turning to Jason, she mouthed the polite words without really knowing or caring what she said. "Thank you for escorting me to the front desk." Annabel's voice was wooden. Jason nodded, quickly turned, and walked away. He didn't look back. Annabel stood in front of the reservation desk, staring into space. "Excuse me. Miss? Miss? Can I help you?" Snapping out of her thoughts, Annabel focused dully on the receptionist behind the desk. "Yes. I need a room." "Will it be just for the night?" The question caught her off guard. "Yes." Her tone was abrupt, sharper than normal. It wasn't the clerk's fault she was staying in the same hotel as her husband and his girlfriend. Registering for the room was automatic, handing the clerk her credit card, she had nothing to do but wait. The waiting did nothing for her composure. She was so close to cracking, she wanted nothing more than to go somewhere and hide. She wanted to lick her wounds in privacy. 12

Waking Annabel

"Mrs. Sullivan... Mrs. Sullivan?" Annabel turned her head to look at the desk clerk. She had been staring at the entrance to the lounge. "Here's the key to your room, which is on the fifth floor. Since you paid by credit card…" Annabel tuned out, nodding without really hearing what was being said. Taking the key card, she headed for the elevators. In order to get the bank of elevators she was going to have to pass the lounge. She imagined meeting Andrew and Janice on their way out. She wondered how Andrew would handle that situation, his wife and his mistress riding the elevator together. Or worse yet, riding in the elevator with them only to discover that their room was on the same floor as hers. How would Mister Suave handle it? No doubt better than her. If she was forced to see them again anytime soon, Annabel knew she would loose her composure. She would lose more than that. If forced to confront them again she would lose her temper and her dignity. She would end up screaming like a fishwife. Crossing the lobby, she passed the lounge. Her luck held. There was no one waiting for an elevator. The soft ding and the doors slid open. Annabel stepped in and turned to stare out. She kept her eyes trained on the lounge entrance. As the doors slid closed, hers shoulders sagged in relief. *** Jason was seated at the table, enjoying a cup of black coffee, when Annabel made her appearance at the restaurant entrance. He took the opportunity to observe her without her knowing. She was dressed, the same as last night—tastefully, expensively. A cream silk pantsuit, bone colored heels, and gold jewelry completed an image of cool sophistication. Her hair was the only hint of fire in her, and gave lie to the image she was trying so hard to achieve. She had left it down this morning, and 13

Jayelle Drewry it fell into a tangle midway down her back. She paused a moment when her eyes found him. Jason stood as she approached. Her walk reminded him of a cat— unhurried, graceful, a glide. He wondered if she moved that slowly in bed. Was she a slow burner, as her movements indicated, or a wildcat like the fire in her eyes hinted? He felt the heat of arousal in his belly. His dick rose to halfmast. It wouldn't take much more to harden completely. When she was close enough to see his eyes he blinked all expression from them. He was troubled by his attraction to her. She was a married woman. After last night, probably not for much longer, but still off limits. "Good morning. I hope you had a goodnight's sleep." Annabel made a good effort at being cheerful, but there were lines of weariness under her eyes and framing her lips. Her skin was pale, suggesting she had spent most of the night awake. Jason suspected her was head was pounding, about to exploded, from stress. "Well enough. And you?" Jason pushed in her chair and circled around the table to his seat. The next few minutes were filled with idle conversation as they ordered breakfast—Annabel toast and coffee, Jason the buffet. Neither mentioned the whereabouts of Andrew or Janice. Jason ate heartily, while Annabel merely picked at her toast. Occasionally he caught her glance, but her eyes would quickly flicker away. "Last night Andrew mentioned that you're the CEO of Futex, Inc?" At Jason's nod Annabel continued, "Well I'll admit I can't help but wonder how Sullivan Designs merited a visit from the CEO of one of the fastest growing construction companies in the South. You're a busy man, and you must have someone else in your employ who normally makes these business trips." 14

Waking Annabel

Jason put down his fork to respond. "Normally yes, my brother makes these trips. But he had an emergency, so I took his place. I'm glad I did, I haven't seen talent like yours and your husband's for a long time." Annabel frowned slightly at the mention of Andrew, but the expression was quickly gone. Picking up her coffee cup, she hastily drained it. Then she placed her napkin beside her plate and folded her hands. Taking a deep breath, she looked up into Jason's eyes. She had his attention; he studied her carefully. Appearing uncomfortable, Annabel shifted in her seat. "Mr. O'Brien, this is very embarrassing, and I'm not sure how to begin." Annabel looked down at her folded hands and his gaze followed hers. He noticed her wedding band. The morning sun streamed in through the window beside their table. The light reflected off the diamonds, and blinded him for a moment. Just as Andrew's charm had blinded her to so many of his faults, Jason guessed. She looked up at her breakfast companion again. "I don't know how to say this, so I'll just say it. I don't think Sullivan Designs is in a position to do business with you at this time. You're an intelligent man, I'm sure you understand what you were unwittingly a part of last night." She paused before continuing, "But, I don't want to leave on a bad note," Annabel placed a piece of paper on the table, "so I have listed a few of the design companies in this area I can personally recommend. Please accept my—" "I understand, Mrs. Sullivan." Jason interrupted. He didn't want her apologizing for that asshole husband of hers. "I'm sorry we couldn't have met under better circumstances, doubly sorry that we won't be working together. Maybe another time." Annabel smiled and nodded. "Yes, maybe there will be another opportunity for us to collaborate." 15

Jayelle Drewry Shortly after that, Annabel dismissed herself. Jason stayed at the table to enjoy a last cup of coffee. Rather than watch her walk away, Jason stared into his coffee cup. Damn. This fascination he felt for another man's wife was dangerous. Bad for business, and bad for him. There were plenty of women in the world eager to share his time, ride his cock, and spend his money. He did not need to be named in a messy divorce, not that Annabel had given any clue that she was aware he was a man. The longer he thought about it, the more convinced he became that it would be best if he stayed away from the lovely Mrs. Sullivan. She might not be aware of him, but he sure as hell was aware of her. *** Two weeks later, Matthew O'Brien walked into Jason's office without knocking. Ignoring his brother's scowl, he fell into the chair in front of Jason's desk. Slouching comfortably, he threw his leg over the arm of the chair, swinging his foot back and forth. "Making us lots of money, big bro?" Matthew made a halfhearted attempt to peer at the paperwork across Jason's desk. Jason tossed down his pen, leaned back in his chair, and sighed. "One of us has to make sure this company stays in business. It sure as hell ain't gonna be you." Frowning, Matthew sat up a little. "Hey, I do my fair share. I just happen to enjoy a life outside of work. Something you should do as well. All this work is going to kill you." "Yeah, but as my only relative you get to enjoy all my worldly goods." Chuckling, Matthew said, "Yeah. Keep on working. Keep on working. At least with you in here working all the ladies notice me. I can spend all that money you're making on fine wine and wild women." 16

Waking Annabel

At the mention of Matthew's playboy habits, Jason frowned and Matthew changed the subject. "Tammy called to set up a time with some of the designers from the list you gave me." He paused. "Good. Good." Jason picked up his pen, and started back to work. "When?" "Next week." When Matthew didn't elaborate Jason looked up, brow raised in question. "As I said, Tammy called to set up a conference, and lo and behold one A & A Sullivan Designs is currently not taking any new clientele." Jason frowned. "Sullivan's was not on the list I gave you." "Yeah, but since you met with them I thought I could at least call and thank them for their recommendations, keep the connection there in case we ever want to work with them." Again Matthew stopped. It was a nasty habit of his, forcing Jason to question him rather than simply stating what was on his mind. "And?" Matthew sat up. "Seems the Sullivans are in divorce court. Nasty business from what I could gather. Mrs. Sullivan left Mr. Sullivan after catching him with the secretary." For a moment Jason felt a clenching in his gut, and his fingers tightened around the pen in his hand. She left the stupid bastard. Controlling his reaction, Jason dropped the pen and stood. He crossed over to the wet bar in the corner and spoke to Matthew while he poured himself a drink. "Too bad. They were a talented team. Start looking elsewhere, we're ready to begin this new development." "Yes, well, I thought you might like that little piece of information. I already know of a firm here in Atlanta. They're 17

Jayelle Drewry not as good as the Sullivans, but since the Sullivans are not available at this time they're the best we can get." Matthew stood to leave. After tossing back a healthy shot of whiskey, Jason strode back to his desk. "Well, the Sullivans are not in business, so they are no longer available to us. Get in contact with the local firm here." Saluting his brother, Matthew turned and walked out of the office. Jason didn't notice; he was again bent over his desk.

18

Waking Annabel

One

Atlanta, two years later. The tinkling of glass and silverware accompanied the sound of muted conversation in the outside cafe where Annabel was having lunch. It was a beautiful spring day and the cafe was busy, all the tables were occupied. Annabel sat with three coworkers. It was supposed to be a working lunch, but the four women were friends as well as business partners, and they had spent most of their lunch talking about everything except work, men being the primary topic of conversation. "Honestly, Annie, I don't know how you do it. You've been here for two years, yet you haven't met anyone. You live like a nun. It's unhealthy!" One of Annabel's friends, Laura, exclaimed. "Oh, it's not that hard. You should try it sometime. Abstinence builds character." Annabel didn't turn a hair, but instead joked in return. Before moving to Atlanta, being addressed as Annie or talking about her love life never would have happened. But after her divorce, she left friends, family and home, and moved to Atlanta. The move enabled her to make changes in her life she never thought possible, one of them being the ability to joke and laugh at herself and her lackluster love life. "Well, darlin', if that's the case, you have enough character for all of us," another friend, Sally, rejoined. All four women laughed. If character could be developed through abstinence, then 19

Jayelle Drewry Annabel knew that all four women had highly developed characters. They might talk the talk, but for all intents and purposes each and every one of them stayed home, alone, more than they went out. Sally was the most outgoing and dated more than the others, but she seldom took her dates home. Laura dated occasionally, preferring to go out in groups and doing group activities. Rene had a lover, but he was rarely in town, and the others had never met him, or seen his picture. For a moment the comment burned. Annabel knew she wasn't the wildest of the bunch, yet she didn't like to think of herself as a nun, or repressed. Too many times Andrew had thrown that in her face. In the end he had used her lack of imagination in the bedroom as his excuse. He had to go to Janice to get what she couldn't give him. Excitement. His parting shot, the only thing burning between her legs, was the color of her bush. Annabel wanted to be exciting, crazy. Part of her longed to throw caution to the wind, and jump into the social scene. Wear sexy clothes, flirt with strangers, laugh loudly, and stay out all night. Yet fear was stronger. Fear of change, of the unknown, of losing control. Though she had found the strength to leave Andrew, move away, and start her life over, she hadn't be able to give up her straitlaced, dull, social persona. Before Annabel could utter a suitable comeback, she noticed a man across the patio staring at her. When she caught him staring, he grinned and raised his glass. With her friends' comments and laughter burning in her ears, she did something completely out of character. She raised her glass in acknowledgment. *** Their laughter drew the attention of a man sitting across the patio from them. His brother had his back to their table, but 20

Waking Annabel

Matthew had a clear view of the four women. He recognized two of the women as part of the group of interior designers that Futex contracted six months ago. What a group of lookers. He was eyeing them appreciatively when one of the women looked up and caught his stare. Not embarrassed in the least at being caught so obviously staring, Matthew grinned and raised his glass in a silent toast. The auburn haired woman arched a brow and returned the gesture. He glanced back at his brother, but Jason had not noticed the women's laughter, or if he had he was not giving them his attention. Instead, he was studying the menu before him. Reaching over, Matthew pulled the menu from his hands. Jason looked up with a frown. "Ya know, big bro', I'm getting a little worried about you. Across from us sits a group of beautiful southern flowers, just waiting to be picked. Yet you aren't even looking their way. When a man can't take the time to notice beautiful women, it's time to get worried." Jason glanced over his shoulder and noted the table of women off to his left and slightly behind him. He gave them a quick once over and noted their comeliness with a nod. "Two of them are partners in the interior design firm Artful Illusions," Jason said. "I can't see the redhead's face. She's probably in design, too." He turned back and held out his hand for the menu. "I looked, now give me the menu." Sighing, Matthew complied. There was no hope for his brother. "I'll leave it up to you to ogle women in restaurants. Contrary to what you think, I'm not so hard up for a woman that I feel the need to pick up every woman on the street. Or, in this case, women who work for the company I run," Jason said 21

Jayelle Drewry before turning his attention back to the menu. "But ogling is such an enjoyable habit. Besides, I'm not suggesting you have an affair with one of those women, just notice that they are there. A friendly lunch flirtation isn't going to be the downfall of you or Futex, Inc. Lighten up, enjoy yourself for God's sake. Women are wonderful creatures. Their company is to be enjoyed, savored like a fine wine or gourmet meal." Matthew tried to hide his concern with lighthearted banner. Jason had not shown interest in women, other than for sexual gratification, in a long time, years in fact. He was certain Jason had needs and probably found the occasional woman to satisfy them. But for the most part his brother was a solitary man, a driven man. Driven to succeed, to make money. "Thanks, but I'll savor my lunch, while you savor the sights around us." Jason put his menu down and pushed his chair back. "Excuse me while I go call the office." "Where's your cellular?" Matthew queried. "At the office, of course. Where else would it be when I need it?" Jason joked before walking away. *** Annabel's companions crowed when she toasted the handsome stranger. It was not a normal gesture for her, and a flush crept up her neck from being caught. "A-ha, Annie is about to join our ranks. Flirting with a handsome stranger," Sally teased her. With that comment, blood rushed and flooded Annabel's face. She had been flirting. Staring out across the patio, she tried to calm her reaction to the teasing remark. Just then she caught a glimpse of the unknown man's companion. Recognition rocketed through her. Jason O'Brien. She had hoped to never lay eyes on the man again. He was witness to her greatest humiliation, her husband's infidelity. She 22

Waking Annabel

had come to Atlanta hoping to put her past, and Andrew, behind her and start over. She had found a new job and a new group of friends. When the firm she worked for, Artful Illusions, had contracted with Futex, Inc. she had had a few worries about coming into contact with him. But she had reassured herself with the knowledge that he was the CEO of the huge construction company, and that their paths would never meet. For six months that had held true, and Annabel had relaxed her guard. Now with the possibility of meeting him in the last place expected, and not on the job, she was unnerved. Annabel quickly directed her gaze to her plate, silently praying he wouldn't notice her. A few seconds later her curiosity got the best of her, and she found herself sneaking glances at him from the corner of her eye. When it became apparent that he had not recognized her, she relaxed and studied him at her leisure. Jason O'Brien was a handsome man, in a rugged, outdoor sense. Thick, dark brown hair with light brown and blond highlights, cut in a short, no nonsense style, revealed a strong, tanned neck that gave proof that he still spent a great deal of time outside on job sites. She would bet next week's paycheck that his hands were callused. A hand-tailored silk suit closely fitted impossibly broad shoulders. From a purely aesthetic point of view, he was an incredibly appealing man, oozing confidence and sex appeal. For a fleeting moment, she wondered what those large callused hands would feel like on her skin. She clinched her thighs together, shifted in her seat, and looked down at her plate as that thought raced across her mind. She hadn't thought of a man's touch in two years, since Andrew and her fiasco of a marriage. Her companions continued to talk around her until Annabel's silence finally drew their attention. "Earth to Annie. Are you with us?" Laura was staring at her with a quizzical look 23

Jayelle Drewry on her face. Annabel snapped her head up and offered an apologetic smile. "Sorry, guys, I was thinking about work." They seemed to buy her excuse and let out a collective groan. One of them, Rene, added, "Leave it to Annie to bring us back to business." The group stood up and collected their purses, continuing their conversation and jokes. Their leaving caused more of a stir than Annabel was aware. Many men watched them cross the patio and head for the cashier. Annabel kept her head turned as she passed Jason's table, hoping he wouldn't recognize her. Two years was a long time, and they had met only once. But he was an extremely intelligent man, and she couldn't be sure that he wouldn't recognize her. Luck was with her because Jason was not seated at his table. He must have left as we were getting our stuff together. Letting out a silent sigh of relief, she headed toward the front of the restaurant. As Annabel stood in line with her friends, waiting to pay, their conversation again centered on men. In particular, Annabel's lack of a social life. "Annie, you can't tell me you aren't ready to start dating. You've been divorced for two years. It's time you got on with your life." Annabel noted that Sally had no problem giving advice. "Guys, I am really getting tired of this subject. Worry about your own love lives and stay out of mine. None of you are overly active in that department yourselves." There was an edge to her voice and a slight frown creased her brow; a sign of her growing agitation. Annabel had told her friends that she was divorced, but not the reason for it. Clearly, Sally didn't take the hint. "Well, you might be tired of the conversation, but I'm not. It's obvious that you are just too scared to try to rejoin the living." 24

Waking Annabel

"Ha! Scared! What do you mean obvious I'm scared? I'm perfectly happy with my life. I don't need to flirt with everything in pants to be happy." Annabel couldn't keep the outrage out of her voice. "And that doesn't mean I'm scared!" Self-doubt and fear kept her at home when she had first moved to Atlanta. However, lately she had begun to feel loneliness, the need to connect with someone. She didn't need her friends to pressure her into a decision she was willing to make on her own. Sally continued. "Timid, shy, uncomfortable, out of practice. Call it whatever you want. You are hiding from life, from men, and pretending to be happy about it." The peacemaker, Laura interrupted, "Annie we are not attacking you. We're just surprised at you today, that's all. "Really, and just what has you so surprised? What have I done that is so out of the ordinary?" Annabel asked. "Well, it was you toasting an unknown man a few minutes ago. Issuing a challenge few men could ignore." Rene smoothly pointed out. "Issuing a challenge! I most certainly was not!" Annabel felt under attack. Though she would never admit it, Annabel was shocked at her own daring. Sally said, "Annie, with those drop dead gorgeous looks of yours, when you toasted that man you were telling him 'Only if you think you're man enough'.." "Sally!" Embarrassment caused Annabel's voice to rise. Shaking her head in disbelief, she took a step back. Something solid halted her unconscious retreat, and she stumbled. Two large hands grasped her around the waist to keep her from falling. "Oops, I'm sorry. I wasn't—Oh!" Annabel turned around to make her apologies face to face, and halted in mid-sentence. Frozen with shock, she could only stare into the dark, enigmatic 25

Jayelle Drewry eyes of the man holding her. Before her stood the one person in Atlanta she was trying to avoid. Jason O'Brien. Damn. *** "Mr. O'Brien. What a pleasure to meet you again." Annabel's voice sounded brittle to Jason. He noted her forced smile. She obviously wasn't as happy with their meeting as he was. "Mrs. Sullivan, I assure you the pleasure is mine." Their conversation was almost identical from the first time they met. But the circumstances weren't the same. This time she wasn't married. Taking deep breath, he inhaled her scent, smelling the perfume she wore. Ah, sweet, sexy woman. Jason's hands tightened around her waist, subconsciously wanting to pull her closer. The heat of sexual tension flashed between them. He stared into her green eyes, and could think of nothing to say. For two years this woman had haunted him, popped into his head at the most inopportune times. Breaking eye contact, Annabel stepped back, appearing uncomfortable. Jason became aware of their audience and understood her need to put some distance between them. Frowning slightly, Jason took a step back as well. Many times he had imagined what he would do, what he would say if he ever ran across her again. Standing in the middle of a restaurant, dumbstruck had not been one of the scenarios. It was his own discomfort that made him aware of Annabel's friends and the puzzled looks they were exchanging. He supposed they were wondering at the connection between Annabel and him. He was pretty certain she would never admit to having met him before, to do so would force her to admit to 26

Waking Annabel

the circumstances that led up to their meeting. He couldn't imagine she would want to share that episode with anyone. "Annie, aren't you going to introduce us?" He was grateful when one of her friends broke the silence. Jason wondered how she was going to handle the introductions without revealing their past connection. Clearing her throat, Annabel performed the introductions. "This is Rene Sanders, she's the founding partner of Artful Illusions.. Sally Hannon is head of our commercial design. Laura Rogers is my team member in residential design." Rene stepped forward, holding out her hand. Jason gave it three brisk shakes and dropped it. Sally and Laura leaned forward to take his hand as well. "Mr. O'Brien and I met briefly a few years ago. He was interested in contracting the design firm where I was employed. But I believe a firm here in Atlanta got the account." Jason admired the way she skimmed over the details of their first meeting. "Now here I am, working for him away. It must be fate." He couldn't agree more. It must be fate that would have them cross paths again. "Mr. O'Brien, it is wonderful to finally make your acquaintance," Rene said. "We have a meeting scheduled for next week to present some of our ideas. I think you will find our preliminary sketches satisfactory. Annie has been our main designer." "So, this is the very talented design staff of Artful Illusions. I have been looking forward to meeting you all. I have heard much about your work. My brother tells me Futex is very fortunate to have contracted your firm. That you're the best in town." Turning to Annabel, smiling, Jason continued, "With designers like Mrs. Sullivan on staff, I'm sure everything I've 27

Jayelle Drewry heard must be true." Frowning, Annabel tartly replied, "Mr. O'Brien I assure you that my colleagues are well deserving of their reputation. A reputation, I might add, that was well established before I came on board." "Ladies, I meant no insult. It's just that I am somewhat familiar with Mrs. Sullivan's talents." Jason smiled charmingly at the women before him. He sent a wink at Annabel. The fire was still in her eyes, the heat of an unwilling attraction, too. "Oh no, it was no insult. We completely understand. Annie is a wonderful designer, and if her past work will help increase the reputation of ours, we're thrilled," Laura piped in. Jason focused his attention on Annabel, studying her. "Well, I won't hold you up. Until next week. Mrs. Sullivan I'm delighted that we finally have an opportunity to work together. I look forward to getting to know you better." *** Annabel didn't offer her hand, but merely nodded her head in acknowledgement. She noted the look in his eyes and felt an answering spark of attraction. The heat of sexual awareness flared, and her heart beat furiously. She could still feel the imprint of his hands around her waist from before, as if he had branded her with his touch. "Yes, finally we get to work together." She made no comment about wanting to get to know him. Somehow Annabel felt more threatened than thrilled with that statement. She refused to watch him walk away. Fear and sexual attraction swamped her. No way was she going to follow him with her eyes. Sally, on the other hand, had no problem watching Jason's easy stride take him through the busy restaurant. Shaking her head, she turned back to Annabel. "Now that is a good-looking 28

Waking Annabel

man." Annabel said nothing, and remained silent as each woman paid her bill. She followed her friends outside, and waited at the curb as Rene unlocked the car. She was aware of their curious glances, and she knew when she got into the car she would need to direct the conversation to something other than Jason O'Brien. Climbing into the car, her mind was racing, trying to think of a topic of conversation. She wasn't fast enough; Sally jumped her before she had the chance to close the door. "Well, Miss I've-Got-A-Secret, why didn't you tell us you had inside connections with the head honcho of Futex, Inc? We wouldn't have been sweating bullets over getting the contract." Annabel sent her a dirty look. "I don't have an inside connection." "If that wasn't a connection, I don't know what is. You know the CEO, he knows you. More importantly, he would like to know you better." Sally raised and lowered her brows suggestively. "I've met him once before, I don't know him, and he doesn't know me well enough to like me. He has seen some of my work before, that's all." Annabel wanted to stress the fact that there was no personal connection between them. "Well, you might be blind, but we are not, and it was perfectly obvious that he was attracted to you. That he wants to get to know you better." Sally stressed know by arching her brows. Annabel refused to respond. "Well if you ask me—" Laura started. "I don't remember asking you." Annabel rejoined. She really didn't want to have this conversation right now. She still reeling from the instant attraction she felt for Jason O'Brien, of all people. He had witnessed the final split of her marriage. How could she be attracted to him? Surely he should bring up feeling 29

Jayelle Drewry of discomfort and shame, not these feelings of attraction and desire. Laura continued, "He's the perfect solution." "Solution? Solution to what?" Annabel had a sneaking suspicion that she didn't want the answer to that question. "To your problem." Laura smiled, but Annabel didn't bite. She simply turned her head and looked at the passing traffic. Annabel might have secretly been dreaming of a lover, but in no way, shape, or form was it going to be Jason O'Brien. When it became obvious that Annabel wasn't going to continue the conversation, Sally continued it for her. "I agree. O'Brien is perfect." Rene jumped in, "Well, he is a hottie." "Yeah, he has a great set of shoulders, nice ass, too. And his hands, did you see his hands? They nearly circled Annie's waist." Laura visibly shivered. "You know what they say about a man's hands." Laughter filled the car. Annabel didn't join in. Instead she turned back from the window and gave all three a glare that should have melted the brass buttons on their linen suits. "There is not a problem with my love life. Therefore the topic is moot and the conversation is over." She did not want to talk about Jason, his shoulders, ass, or hands. She noticed that Laura had the same reaction she did to his hands. Surprisingly, Sally agreed. "You're exactly right. So we'll put this discussion of O'Brien on the back burner." Annabel nodded hesitantly at Sally's capitulation. That was not a normal thing for Sally. The other two women just stared at Sally, their expressions incredulous. Smiling, Sally went for the jugular. "We just need to get you to acknowledge your problem first. We have the solution. We'll work from there." 30

Waking Annabel

Groaning, Annabel didn't bother trying to win the argument. She turned back to the window. Sally sat back, seemingly satisfied with having the last word, while Laura and Rene howled with laughter. Annabel was silent the rest of the way back to the office. Every now and then her friends would cast a glance her way, but left her to her thoughts. Even if they had asked her what was on her mind, she didn't think she could have given them a straight answer. Her thoughts were in such a tangle even she couldn't separate them. All she did know, clearly, was that Jason O'Brien was dangerous to her peace of mind. To her that meant stay away. *** As Jason sat down for lunch, thoughts of Annabel preyed on his mind. He had been attracted to her the first time he had ever laid eyes on her. More than attracted to her, more like pole axed. She was a stunning woman, yes, but the world was full of woman more beautiful than she was. The best way to describe her would be compelling. She drew him like lodestone to a magnet. There was another word to describe her: dangerous, dangerous to his peace of mind. Two years earlier, another man's ring encircled her finger and kept him from her. It gave him reason to put her out of his mind, or so he thought. But the swift overwhelming surge of arousal he had felt today put that lie to rest. He had never successfully forgotten her; he had only succeeded in suppressing her memory. Buried it as he buried himself in nameless, faceless women. But now there was no wedding ring on her finger. She belonged to no man; at least, according to the conversation he had overheard, there was no one on the horizon. But her colleagues didn't need to worry about Annabel Sullivan's lack of 31

Jayelle Drewry a lover, because before too long he was going to be her lover. She was going to belong to him. Then he could find out if sex with Annabel was a slow burn or a raging inferno. Two years. No man. She would be tight as a fist. A shuddered racked his frame as he thought of sinking into her. He wasn't sure he would be able to go slow the first time. "How was everything at the office?" Matthew's question snapped Jason out of his thoughts. "What? Fine. Fine. Everything's fine." Jason spoke absentmindedly. His distracted air caused Matthew to look at him curiously. Jason caught his brother's look. His lips stretched into a smile that would have made a hungry shark about to meet a swimmer proud. He threw back his head and laughed. Matthew's expression became alarmed. "Are you sure?" "Why, little brother, I'm positive."

32

Waking Annabel

Two

Jason's office actually consisted of several offices. There was an outer office for his secretary, a conference room for board meetings and presentations, a small kitchen, and his personal office. In order for visitors to get to his personal office it was necessary for them to pass through his secretary's office. His suite of offices, as well as Matt's took up the top floor of the Futex building. Since these were the only offices located on the top floor, it was a usually quiet place to work. Tricia, Jason's secretary, sat behind her desk, working at the computer. Since she and Matt's secretary, Kay, were the only two there she was playing the radio on her desk somewhat louder than usual. Humming off key to the rock song playing, she didn't hear the ding of the elevator doors opening. "Get me the file on Artful Illusions. Pronto." Jason strode into the outer office of the CEO's suite. He didn't take time to speak to his secretary, as was his usual routine. Continuing on, he went through the oak-paneled doors into his office without looking back. Matt followed at a slower pace, and therefore missed the order. He stopped in front of Tricia's desk to speak to her, and noticed the secretary frozen at her desk. Jason's sudden appearance had taken ten years off of her life. Jason stuck his head out his office door. "I'll need the number of a local florist as well. I don't have any preferences—" Seeing Matthew, he paused. "Get a name from Matt. He must be 33

Jayelle Drewry on a first name basis with every florist in town." With that, the inner office door shut with a snap. Tricia shared a puzzled expression with Matt. Matt shrugged his shoulders, and before Tricia could ask the question that was no doubt burning on the tip of her tongue, he answered it. "I don't know what's up with him. One minute we were looking at menus and the next minute he was smiling like a Cheshire cat." Matt shook his head. "We were seated outside, he must have had a sun stroke." Tricia opened her mouth to respond when the intercom buzzed. "I need that file." Jason barked. "And that number." Sticking her tongue out, Tricia pushed her chair back and stood. "Well, I can't talk now. The boss is in a tizzy. I need to head over to personnel to get a file for him." She started to the door. Matt beat her there and held the door open for her. "Don't you usually have them send someone over with a file when Jason needs it?" He asked as they walked down the hall together. "Yeah, but he said pronto. Then thirty seconds later wanted to know if I had it. I don't think he's going to wait for personnel to deliver it." Matt frowned at Jason's continued puzzling behavior. "What file does he want?" "Artful Illusions." Matt stopped dead in his tracks, and stared at Tricia in amazement. A wide grin split his face. Finally, he could not contain himself anymore and threw back his head to laugh. Tricia wore the same expression Matt had worn two hours ago when Jason had displayed the same odd behavior. 34

Waking Annabel

"I'll tell you what. You go back to your desk, or better yet, go take a coffee break and I'll get the file for Jason." Tricia didn't budge. "Not on your life. Not until you tell me what's going on." The expression on her face told Matt she would stand there all night if that's what it took. Matthew gave a heavy sigh. "Jason and I were talking about Southern dishes today during lunch. I suggested a few appetizers, but he didn't express an interest. He must have decided on a dessert without telling me his choice." He wore a devilish expression. "Oh yeah?" Tricia's eyes narrowed and she sounded dubious. "And just what do Southern dishes have to do with Artful Illusions?" "They have a delectable menu." Matt answered seriously. "Menu my foot! They're a design firm!" "Yeah but the four partners are—" "Women." Tricia finished for him. Matt grinned from ear to ear. "Not just women. Gorgeous, sexy, intelligent women. A veritable feast for the eyes." Tricia whirled around and stormed toward the employees' break room. "I'm taking a break. You and your good for nothing brother are pigs. Referring to women as food. Food. I suppose flowers ensure prompt service. You're worse than pigs." Acid dripped from her words. Midway down the hall, she turned back to him. "Men, Yankee men in particular, sometimes underestimate Southern women. We are as proud and strong as the next woman is. As a matter of fact, we have been known to have boys like you and your brother for afternoon hors d'oeuvres." Turning, she continued down the hall and disappeared around the corner. Matt watched her self-righteous march down the hall. Her 35

Jayelle Drewry skirt twitched in time with her stride, while her brown hair bounced with each indignant step. He pictured her snapping brown eyes and chuckled. Minx. Boys. I can't believe she calls us boys when she can't be over twenty-five. Hors d'oeuvres. Shaking his head, he continued to personnel for the Artful Illusions file. *** Jason sat in his big leather desk chair and looked out at downtown Atlanta. The city teemed with life. People hurried by on foot, making better time than the people driving. He concluded Atlanta traffic was as bad as traffic in New York or Chicago, but the setting was definitely better. Impatiently he looked at his wristwatch. Damn. Where is Tricia? He could have gotten the file himself by now. He spun around in his chair and hit his intercom button. "Tricia." No answer, but before he could spin back around his office door opened. Expecting his secretary, he was surprised to see Matt standing in the doorway. Jason greeted his brother with his usual scowl. "Matt. This is a surprise. I thought you might have seen enough of me over lunch." Matt sauntered into the room and sat in one of the chairs across from Jason's desk. He had a file in his hand. He held it so Jason could not see the label. "Oh, I'm here as a delivery boy." His tone was very nonchalant. "I told personnel you needed this ASAP and that I would make sure you got it immediately." A frown marked Jason's brow, and his eyes narrowed suspiciously. "And what file might that be?" "The Artful Illusions file." Matthew waved it back and forth. 36

Waking Annabel

"And are you going to give it to me?" "I took the liberty of looking through it before I brought it down. It was boring to read. No where as interesting as the designers themselves." "I thought it might be. I would like to find out for myself, though." Jason held out his hand for the file. Matt reached over to put the file in his hand, but at the last minute pulled back. This time Jason aimed a full-fledged scowl at Matt. "A few years ago we used this firm after the deal with A&A fell through." Jason nodded abruptly, but refused to respond. It was obvious Matt wanted to get a rise out of him. "Shortly after that they lost a partner, and someone else bought in. Since then, their reputation has skyrocketed. From what I could tell, that is one talented partner, one quite in demand. What was the name?" Matt made a halfhearted attempt to thumb through the file. The file was snatched out of his hands. "Oh yes. I remember now. It's—" Matt seemed determined to get a rise out of Jason. "Sullivan. Annabel Sullivan. I know damn well you remember the name." Jason all but growled. "Which one was she? At lunch today, which one was she?" Giving up all thoughts of getting Matt off of the subject, Jason leaned back and relaxed in his chair. "The redhead." Matt whistled. "Good-looking woman. Sassy, too." "Stunning would be more accurate." "Have to agree with you there, brother. So, anything happen last time that I need to know about?" "Hell no. She was a married woman." Jason shot Matt a dirty look. 37

Jayelle Drewry "Don't know that that has stopped anyone before." Matt needled him. "Well, you know how I feel about infidelity. Do you even think I would do that to someone else?" Jason sat up in his chair. For the first time he was truly aggravated with his brother. Matt sighed. "No. Sorry I mentioned it." Jason waved his hand in the air. "It's forgotten." "So, what are you going to do with her file?" "Read it." At Matt's glare Jason chuckled. "When I first met Annabel I wanted her immediately. No hesitation. Instant. But she was married and didn't even know I was a man. If she had responded to me, given the slightest hint..." Jason shook his head. "I don't know. I would like to think that I would have done the honorable thing. Anyway, she didn't, so I put her out of my mind. But today I saw her again, and the attraction was still there, but the situation was different." Jason's smile was wolfish. "When? I could have sworn that you didn't look at those women two seconds." Matt was puzzled. "At the phone. I ran into her after using the phone. No, she ran into me, literally, at the phone. Stepped all over me. Anyway, this time she was most definitely aware of me." "Get her number?" "No. If I had that I wouldn't need the file, now, would I? But I did get some good info. It seems Annabel has been a recluse since her divorce. Avoided men." Matt raised a brow. "Since her divorce? No contact? How do you know this? I'm sure it's not something she would share with a business acquaintance." He sounded skeptical. "No, it's not something she would share. But I just happen to overhear her friends tell her it was time to find a lover." "Really? Bet that was a good conversation. And you stepped up and volunteered for the position." 38

Waking Annabel

Jason laughed. "No she stepped on my foot, while denying any desire for a lover. When she turned around to apologize she recognized me and I thought she was going to faint. I've never seen a woman try so hard to get away so fast." "So why the interest? She tried to get away." "She saw me. Jason O'Brien. The man. Just for a minute I could swear she reacted to me." Satisfaction filled his vice. Matt stood. "So you are going to offer yourself as escort and any other role that might come along." He tossed a piece of paper on Jason's desk. "Here's a list of florists. Good luck. If your lady is as skittish as you make her sound, you're going to need it." Jason turned his chair back to look out the window behind his desk. Once again thinking of Annabel, he didn't even hear his office door shut behind Matthew. Yes, Annabel was skittish, but he was sure he could get her to trust him. Skittish, he smiled to himself, was usually how someone described a horse, a horse not broken to the saddle, or not comfortable with giving a man a ride.. Yes, that would describe his Annabel, and she would be his. He might have to gentle her, coax her into giving him a try. *** Artful Illusions was located in an area of Atlanta where several historic houses had been restored and turned into business offices. Tastefully decorated in period reproductions and expensive antiques, the house itself was wonderful advertisement. Annabel sat at her desk working with some fabric swatches when she heard Rene greet someone downstairs. Thinking it was a new client and assuming Rene could handle herself, Annabel kept working. When Rene called for Laura, then Sally, she looked up and frowned. When the three woman downstairs 39

Jayelle Drewry began to giggle and laugh, she stood up and went to the upstairs landing, from there she saw three sets of heels in the doorway of the sitting room. Whoever had been there was gone. "Hey, Annie, come down just a minute," Sally called. Annabel jumped guiltily. She felt like she had been caught spying. Frowning at her own foolishness, she started down the stairs. Sally and Laura came to the foot of the stairs to watch her descent. Their gleeful expressions made her stop in the middle of the stairs. "What is it?" Annabel wasn't sure she wanted to finish coming down. "You won't believe it until you see it. Come on, Annie." Sally turned and headed for the sitting room, Laura close on her heels. Rene was out of sight, and Annabel assumed she must be in the sitting room, too. She quickly reached the bottom of the stairs and hurried into the room after them. Rene stood over by the picture window arranging a dozen long stem roses in a crystal vase. Laura and Sally stood slightly behind her, grinning like crazy. Annabel relaxed. Rene's beau must have sent her flowers. No wonder Sally and Laura were so excited. He had never done this before. Rene turned and caught Annabel's look. "How do you like the arrangement? You are much better at this sort of thing than I am." Annabel walked over and leaned forward to smell one of the buds. Straightening, she looked over at Rene. "I love it. You did a wonderful job. White roses are my favorite. There is something so elegant about them." The three women shared a look that puzzled Annabel. "Want to read the card?" Sally offered it to her. Annabel looked at Rene for permission. Rene shrugged. Taking that for an affirmative, Annabel took the card. It was 40

Waking Annabel

unopened, which puzzled her. She cast a quizzical look over to Rene. At Rene's nod she tore open the envelope and removed the card from inside. The others crowded around her to read it over her shoulder. The message was brief. The roses can never compare to the elegance of you. I want to see you again. Have dinner with me. Jason O'Brien Annabel felt faint. She stuffed the note back into the envelope, hoping that the women behind her hadn't read it, knowing they had. "I knew it. I knew it. You can't deny it now. There's definitely something between you and Jason O'Brien." Sally crowed. "I have no idea what you are talking about." Annabel was not going to admit to anything. "You know exactly what I'm talking about. Today, at lunch, you introduced Laura, Rene, and me to the CEO of Futex, Inc. You were standing about two inches apart and his hands were around your waist." Annabel cut in before Sally could go any further. "He helped me to keep from falling because I had accidentally backed over his foot. I'm not denying that I know him. But I am denying the slant you would like to put on a purely business relationship." Instantly she wished she had chosen a word other than relationship. "Business relationship! For the way you were trying so hard not to stare and the way he was devouring you with his eyes, it's a wonder the man had room for lunch!" "Rene!" Annabel was horrified that the women had obviously picked up on the sexual tension between her and Jason 41

Jayelle Drewry O'Brien. "Well, it's true. And I say hooray! It's about time. You need to get laid." Rene turned to the others in the room. Like the traitors they were, both vigorously nodded their heads. "Amen to that," both chorused. Annabel studied her friends through narrowed eyes. She decided the best course of action would be attack. "I'm amazed. You guys are incredible." She shook her head in wonder. "All this concern over my love life, or lack of one. All this advice that I just need to go out and get laid. It's a pity none of you have turned that concern or advice on yourselves. I mean, I don't think anyone in this room has seen a naked man within the last six months." There was a chorus of denials. "Not true! Not true." "Ladies, ladies. You really can't give any advice about my love life if you're not seeing some action yourself." Annabel shook her head and walked over to the sofa. She sat, crossing her legs. By attacking their love lives, hers was put on the backburner, which is exactly where she wanted it to be. Laura plopped down beside Annabel. "Okay, okay. I admit it. I can't remember the last time I've had sex, it's been so long. Rene and Sally probably have dust collecting on their memories, too. But we've got to start somewhere, and you look like you're the only one with any prospects." Rene sank into a chair across from the sofa, while Sally perched on its arm. "I am seeing Ron, in case you have forgotten." Sally snorted. "Bet you're not seeing any action. When's the last time you two have gotten down and dirty?" Laura and Annabel sniggered. The look on Rene's face was priceless. Rendered speechless, Rene stared at Sally in silent amazement. Rene was the outspoken one of the group, Annabel 42

Waking Annabel

supposed to be put on the spot like this was probably a shock to her. Honesty forced Rene to admit, "It's been awhile." "A while? Did you even remember what man's penis looks like?" Sally pushed a little harder. "Well at least I can say I've seen one in the last year!" It didn't take Rene long to recover her wit. Annabel put a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing out loud. Laura grasped Annabel's hand. "So, Annie, you're our only hope. We have to start with you. We focus on you, we don't worry about ourselves." Annabel pulled her hand free. "Well, tough. Focus on something or someone else. I'm not sleeping with Jason O'Brien just so you can live vicariously through me. You want to know what he's like in bed, you screw him." The room was silent. All of the women, Annabel included, were shocked at the bluntness of her speech. She was by far the most reserved of the group. She was hardly a prude, but sex talk made her uncomfortable. It wasn't something with which she'd had a lot of success, so she preferred not to dwell on it. In addition she wasn't accustomed to sharing her personal life with them. Lately she'd been opening up, but she was nowhere near ready for the type of confidences it would require to share how and when she met Jason O'Brien. Taking advantage of the silence, Annabel stood and walked to the bottom of the stairs. There she turned and looked back at her companions. "Tell you what, ladies. I'll get out. I'll rejoin the living. It's time. But I don't need a…a…pimp, or three pimpettes. I decide who and when." With those last words, she turned and went back up the stairs. She left a shocked silence behind her. Annabel barely made it up to her desk. Her knees were 43

Jayelle Drewry weak, legs shaky. Part of her was thrilled. The roses, the note. Jason O'Brien was an incredibly sexy man. That she had gained his attention was thrilling, exciting, but at the same time it was scary. He was way out of her league. Annabel had met Andrew the summer she turned eighteen. He had been her first boyfriend. Slightly older and more experienced, he had charmed her with little effort. By the end of summer he had charmed her, wedded her, and bedded her. So, while her friends had gone off to college, Annabel had stayed home and gone to work with her husband. The dating, the breakups, the parties and dates that were rites of passage for most young women, Annabel never withstood. She was ready to try her wings, but Jason O'Brien? He had witnessed the most humiliating moment of her life. Even if she could get past that, something that didn't seem to bother him at all, Annabel didn't think she was ready for him just yet. She wanted to start small. Meet someone. Have a light flirtation, maybe several. No sex, just dates. Annabel wanted to experience all the courting rituals that so many other women took part of everyday, something she had never really experienced. No sex now didn't mean no sex later. She was willing to try sex again, wanted to try sex again, but not yet. Annabel wanted to take one step at a time. Sex with Andrew had been nothing to write home about. Painful at first, then okay. Just okay. No sparks, no explosions, definitely no orgasms. She might have been young, but Annabel had known there was something missing, so she had invested in books, researched on the Internet. She had learned a lot about her body, and Andrew's for that matter. But the knowledge had not helped her marriage. Andrew had been unwilling to experiment. If there was something wrong with their sex life, then it was something Annabel was going to have to work on by herself, he had told her. He had had plenty of 44

Waking Annabel

partners before her; all of them had been satisfied. If she wasn't happy, then there was something wrong with her not him. At first, Annabel hadn't believed him. When she read about the sexual practices on the Internet and in books, she'd felt desire. The pictures and material had turned her on. She just hadn't been able to translate that desire to Andrew, and she had tried. Eventually she had accepted the fact that she was one of those women who could not climax through vaginal intercourse. Masturbation? Yes. Intercourse with husband? No. Sex hadn't been the only thing wrong with her marriage. There had been other issues as well, the biggest being control. Andrew had wanted to dominate every aspect of their life together. They worked together, he screened her friends and her calls, and he chose her wardrobe. Within a year of their marriage, Annabel was completely isolated from her friends and dependent on Andrew. Then she caught him cheating. She had been devastated. Separated from friends, she had had no one but her parents in which to turn. Big mistake. An alcoholic father and a cool mother. Yes, they loved her, and she loved them, but their marriage had been a sham. Neither had been a help. Both had advised her to forgive and forget. Swallowing her pride, she had done as her parents advised. Andrew once again became the charming, adoring husband. But Annabel had lost all interest in trying to enjoy sex with her husband. When she caught him again, in Atlanta, he had blamed her. She let him, and hadn't cared about anything but getting as far away from him as possible. Because she had married young, she had easily fallen prey to Andrew's smooth charm. Annabel didn't want to be that foolish the second time around. Annabel was ready to face the challenge of dating now, though. Just not with Jason. She wasn't ready yet. She didn't know if she would ever be ready for him. 45

Jayelle Drewry Privately she could admit to herself how much she longed to accept his invitation. Self-preservation outweighed sexual curiosity. Jason was an aggressive, dominant man. She feared he had the ability to overwhelm her and take over her life. That was something that she would never allow to happen again. She definitely was staying in control this time around.

46

Waking Annabel

Three

Three Weeks Later Annabel woke up sweating. Her body throbbed, her sex and nipples ached. But there was no one in bed with her, no one to satisfy the burning in her loins. Impatiently, she threw the sheet off her body, and a light breeze from a cracked bedroom window cooled her naked body. Her peaked nipples hardened painfully. The breeze did nothing to cool her desires. Masturbation was now a nightly ritual. Groaning, she rolled onto her stomach. She needed relief or she'd never get to sleep. Running her fingers through moist pubic hair, Annabel found her clit quickly. She was soaking; cream oozed from her, lubricating her fingers and nether lips. She immediately rubbed her clit. Closing her eyes, she pretended it was Jason's hand. Whimpering, she continued to stimulate her clit while using her other hand to thrust in and out of her pussy. She could hear the squishing sound her fingers made. Tensing, Annabel pressed her hips into the mattress and screamed out her release. A slight tremor shook her body. Slowly she relaxed, then flipped over onto her back. She was going insane, she knew that now. Jason O'Brien was going to drive her completely over the edge. He haunted her during the day with flowers, calls, chocolates. He haunted her at night with some of the most erotic dreams she had ever had in her life. Annabel had fucked Jason in her sleep almost nightly for the last three weeks. She was having more sex, better sex with 47

Jayelle Drewry herself, than she had ever had while married. Maybe she needed to invest in a vibrator. Sex fiend. Jason was going to turn her into a sex fiend. She'd never been so hungry for sex in her life. She wanted to feel his hands on her body, his lips caressing hers. Annabel dreamed of him at night and thought about him daily, not that she could help it. He wouldn't leave her alone. The man would not take no for an answer. He was wearing her down—eventually she was going to give in. She couldn't keep fighting him and herself. She would go insane. *** Across town, Jason woke up in a sweat, his heart pounding. Feeling a warm, damp spot spreading across his stomach, he threw back his sheet with a curse. Damn it! Not again. He felt like he was thirteen, waking up soaked from his own wet dreams. If he did half the things he dreamed of doing to her, with her, he'd be dead. But what a way to go, inside Annabel Sullivan, and he would be in her, and soon. The nightly dreams he had were driving him crazy. She had him hungry for the missionary position! Anything, just as long as he could sink into her. He had to have her and soon. She intrigued and fascinated him. There was a fire carefully banked underneath the cool layer she displayed to the world. She reminded him of Sleeping Beauty waiting for the man who could wake and stir the flames of her passion to life. Jason had decided that he was that man. Waking Annabel had become his mission and could possibly become one of his favorite activities. He wanted to taste her rich cream on his tongue, feel her nails buried in his scalp and her legs clamped around his head, while her cry of pleasure echoed in his ears. Sighing, he stomped to the bathroom to clean himself, again. Standing in front of the mirror, he looked at himself and 48

Waking Annabel

decided he was not a bad looking man. His skin was darkened form years of working construction. He was as dark as she was pale, the contrast of their skin would make an erotic picture. In his mind's eye he could see her spread out before him, her auburn hair spread out around her. He wondered if she had freckles—he hadn't seen any, but if she did he intended to kiss everyone of them. Would her pubic hair be the same shade of auburn? Her nipples, would they be a delicate shade of pink or a deep rose? Turning sideways, he checked his profile. Nope, not fat yet. Facing forward, he cupped his package. More than a handful there, and he had big hands. Most women were in awe of his size. Couldn't wait to see if he would fit. Closing his eyes, he imagined sinking into her. She'd be so tight. He'd need to go slow, ease his way in, but he'd fit. As he rocked in and out he would have to work his way up to a faster, rougher pace. He would cup her hips as he took her from behind. Then he could watch her body accept the dominance of his. Jason felt himself harden in his hands. Keeping his eyes closed, he pumped a few times and felt his balls tighten. Seeing Annabel behind closed eyes, Jason stroked himself from root to tip, then tightened his grip and propped his other arm against the vanity mirror. He imagined it was her hands, her lips, which pleasured him. He imagined every way she might please him, imagined what effect her ministrations might have on her own body… Soon… Soon she would wrap her lips around him and bring him to completion. Soon… Soon… With an almost anguished moan, he ejaculated into the sink, his body quaking, but not nearly satisfied. After catching his breath, he rinsed the sink and headed back into the bedroom. Jason settled back into bed, not bothering with a sheet. He was burning up. He didn't bother turning the air down either. 49

Jayelle Drewry Once his libido settled, he'd cool down. But tonight was it. He'd had it. Obviously, he was being too passive. Probably acting like that pansy-ass ex-husband of hers. Time to turn it up a notch. Tomorrow, by hook or by crook, Annabel Sullivan was going to agree to go out with him. *** "Annabel." Jason spoke her name softly. His deep voice sent chills down her spine, and caused her nipples to harden. Her hands froze on the keyboard; she stared at the monitor, unable to turn and look over her shoulder. She knew what she would see. Jason. Tall, broad, sexy Jason. Every inch of him screaming SEX. Stubborn Jason. Relentless Jason. For the last three weeks, she had turned down invitation after invitation. Thank you for the flowers. No, I don't think dinner is a good idea. Thank you for the chocolates. No, I don't think lunch is a good idea. Please no more flowers.. Taking a deep breath, Annabel spun her leather chair around to face him. There he was, in all his glory. She felt the impact low in her stomach. Jason was leaning against the doorjamb, holding a small silver and white gift bag in one hand. The other hand was tucked into his pants pocket, his tie was gone, and his shirt buttons loosened. Black hair and brooding eyes added to the sexy slouch. Annabel almost whimpered. If he didn't stop soon, she was going to give in. For a moment she couldn't remember why she was fighting the attraction. When Annabel still didn't speak, Jason pressed the advantage, stepped into her office and shut the door. She could read the determination on his face, he was not going to let her continue to run away. They had been building up to this for weeks. Annabel was surprised he had let her run for this long. 50

Waking Annabel

Rather than sit in one of the chairs in front of the desk, Jason walked over to stand in front of her. He leaned against the desk, trapping her between himself and the computer. He set the bag on the desk. Both were silent as they stared into each other's face. Jason looked captivated by the beauty in front of him. Annabel froze in wonder and amazement of the sensuality of the man before her. Jason was the first to move. Leaning over, he placed a hand on each of the arms of Annabel's chair. Closing his eyes, he breathed deeply. "God, I love the way you smell." His eyes, burning with intensity, connected with hers. Jason smiled slowly. "Hello, Annabel." Leaning closer, he kissed her cheek. The contact caused Annabel to jerk back. "Jason." His first name slipped out. His closeness had her rattled, off kilter. Usually she kept him at a distance by being overly polite, by addressing him as Mr. O'Brien. Jason smiled at her slip, and settled back against her desk. Annabel took a deep breath to calm her rioting nerves, but it only made matters worse. God, he smelled as good as he looked. Hot. Spicy. Like nothing she had ever smelled before. Her nipples hardened to the point of pain. She cleared her throat. "Mr.—" Jason put a gentle finger to her lips. "You got it right the first time. It's Jason." Turning, he picked up the bag. "Since the flowers and chocolates haven't worked, I picked up something different. Thought I would deliver it personally." Annabel took the bag, but didn't look in it. She stood to put some distance between them. Jason didn't move, so she had to step around him. The space gave her confidence. Once she was on the other side of the desk, she turned and faced him. "Mr. 51

Jayelle Drewry O'Brien. You are putting me in a very awkward position. The—" Seated at her desk, he grinned up at her. "Awkward is not the position I want you in." Blushing furiously, Annabel scowled down at him. "Mr. O'Brien—" "Jason." Leaning back, he propped his feet on her desk. He was pushing her, "I'm getting tired of the ice maiden act." Anger flared brightly in her eyes. "Jason." She drew out his name in a long, low hiss. "You are putting me in an awkward position. One I don't care for." She held up her hand when Jason opened his mouth. "No, let me finish. I work for you. Or at least my firm has a contract with your company. So we have a business relationship. The flowers, the candy, and what ever this is..." She shook the bag at him. "This is not part of the relationship we have. You have asked me to dinner. I have refused. Maybe I haven't been polite enough. Maybe you see no as a yes. Maybe you see this as a challenge. I don't know. I don't care. But it is going to stop now." With that, she tossed the gift in his lap. Secretly ashamed of her behavior, Annabel nonetheless straightened her shoulders and stared into his eyes. With a satisfied smile, Jason opened the bag she had thrown in his lap. Rustling around in the white tissue, he lifted a delicate glass bottle. "I knew this was your scent. When I walked by the counter, without even knowing what you wear, I could identify the scent. It's this." He gently placed the small bottle on her desk. The size didn't fool Annabel. He had bought her perfume, not cologne, but perfume. Outrageously expensive perfume in a crystal bottle. He had gotten the scent correct. That he was so attuned to her. That he knew her scent, amazed her. Floored her. Disarmed her. With a trembling hand, she reached across the desk and picked up the elegant bottle. Lifting the stopper, the fragrance 52

Waking Annabel

filled the room. Jason moved to stand in front of her. Taking the stopper from her hand, he lightly ran the tip along her neck and collarbones. "I think of you day and night. I dream of you, your smell, your voice. Your scent is in my head." He placed the stopper back in the bottle, and put the bottle on her desk. Cupping her shoulders in his hands, he pulled her close, chest to chest. Closing his eyes, he inhaled deeply. "Soft, sexy..." pausing, he dipped his head closer, "you." Then he kissed her. Caught in his spell, enthralled by his words, Annabel didn't protest, didn't move. Instead, she closed her eyes and relaxed against him. Welcoming his kiss. Jason scattered small kisses across her cheek and down her neck, following the trail of the perfume. "When you put this on I want you to think of me. I want you to put it here," he kissed the spot behind her ear, "and here," he kissed the skin just below her breastbone. Raising his head, he cupped her face in his hands. She met his intense black eyes. "Put it on all your pulse points, all your tender, secret spots, and when you do think of me. Touching you, kissing every soft scented inch of you." Annabel moaned airily. He was seducing her with his softly whispered words. Beguiling words. Sexy words. He was seducing her with his need, causing a reciprocal need to flare in her. Warmth flooded her, causing her to clinch her thighs in need. Annabel gave in. Leaning against him, she curled her arms around his neck and pulled his lips to hers. Warm, soft, moist. She could taste peppermint on his tongue. The kiss was a slow discovery of each other. His tongue slowly and thoroughly explored the interior of her mouth. One kiss turned into another, then another. She could feel his erection pressing against her stomach. She rubbed herself against it, against him. Purring, she 53

Jayelle Drewry pressed closer, to feel the length and width of him. Jason was the one to break the contact. Scarcely pulling his lips from hers, he opened his eyes and smiled at her. Without thinking, just reacting, Annabel smiled back. "Annabel, have dinner with me?" His voice was low, tender. A request, not a demand. "Yes." Annabel's voice was just as soft, dreamy. "I'll pick you up at seven." Placing a gentle kiss on her forehead, Jason quickly and quietly left. Turning, Annabel returned to her seat. Dazed, feelings of arousal coursed through her body. She couldn't remember ever feeling like this before. Andrew had never managed to make her blood flow so hotly, or make her body ache so sweetly. Her nipples ached for his touch, his mouth. She was wet between her thighs, on fire with need. Putting a hand in her lap, she touched herself through her clothes. The light contact was not enough. She pushed against her vaginal lips with the heel of her palm. The ache worsened. She thought of his hand there, and her thighs clamped around her own hand, as if to capture his. Without thinking, needing the relief, Annabel worked her hand under her skirt and panties. Touching herself, she slowly spread the moisture seeping out of her over labia. Closing her eyes, she relaxed back into her chair. In the last two years, this was the only form of release she had allowed herself. Annabel had become quite good at masturbation. But this was the first time she had ever been tempted to touch herself outside of the privacy of her own bedroom. This time it was different, this time rather than some faceless imaginary lover, she had a face. Jason's. Thrusting two fingers into herself, Annabel quickly found her rhythm. Thrusting her fingers in and out, in and out as fast as 54

Waking Annabel

she could, Annabel quickly brought herself to the brink. Reaching up, she pinched a nipple. In her mind's eye it was Jason's hands. When she came, the orgasm was so powerful it was almost painful. Her vaginal walls tightly clasped her fingers, and she bit her lip to keep from crying out. Slowly, her tense muscles loosened. The relief was immense. Pulling her hand from underneath her clothes, Annabel leaned forward to pull a tissue out of the box setting on the corner of her desk. Wiping her hand, she was shocked at her own boldness. She leaned her head against the back of her leather chair. Oh, God. What have I gotten myself into? If one kiss has me masturbating in my office, what's going to happen if we start dating? Public fucking? I'm not ready for this. I can't do this. But I'm gonna do it. If I don't I'm going to go crazy. Damned if you do, damned if you don't. Taking a deep breath, Annabel settled comfortably back into her office chair. She prided herself on the changes she had made; the fact that she had seized control and made a new life for herself. A life that was not dependent on a husband or parents. For the last two years she had be answered only to herself. She had established a successful career, with a solid reputation, and cultivated a small group of friends. There was only one area she had not explored: dating. Now it seemed she was about to start. She hoped she didn't get in over her head. *** Standing on the other side of her office door, Jason raised his fist over his head in triumph. He was flying high from the thrill of the chase. After a three-week siege, he was finally advancing. Annabel had finally agreed to go out with him. He had never worked so hard for a kiss, for a date. He didn't want to screw it up now. Tonight had to be perfect, if he blew it he knew 55

Jayelle Drewry he'd never get another chance. It was a one time shot. Obviously she would expect to be…to be…courted for lack of a better word. She had proven that in her determination to keep him away. Let the courtship begin. Bounding down the stairs, Jason headed out to prepare for the upcoming night. It would have to be something unique, special. Annabel wasn't going to be easy. She'd proven that over the last few weeks. She was terrified, of him, of herself and the chemistry between them. If he pushed too hard too fast she'd run. So how was he going to keep the chemistry and build the trust? Simple. He would need to keep it simple. Dinner. They would start with dinner, a good meal and a light flirtation. Then he'd take her home and walk her to the door. Show her he was a gentleman. Again the word skittish crossed his mind. He would have to accustom her to him, gentle her to his hand so to speak. The turn of phrase brought a smile to Jason's lips. Bet he'd see some of that fire if she could hear his thoughts. Where to take her? He thought about it for a few moments. Did he go for the Ritz or somewhere else low key? Which would Annabel prefer? No, she wouldn't go for the Ritz. That would be too obvious. Either he was trying to impress her or bed her. Yes he wanted to do both. Planned on it. It would be an easier feat if she wasn't put on guard anymore than she already was. Jason contemplated his options as he drove back to his office. As he pulled into the parking garage he decided there was but one place he could take her, The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar, and View.

56

Waking Annabel

Four

Jason O'Brien was not a patient man nor was he a particularly passive man. When he wanted something he went after it. Yet Annabel Sullivan was teaching both those traits, completely against his will. Three weeks of pursuit had tested his patience and passivity to the very limits. If she had not given in that afternoon, Jason wasn't sure what he would have done. Backing off or giving up and admitting defeat would not have been an option. Thankfully, finally he had scored the date he had worked so hard to get. Now more than any other time he would need patience. Annabel was not going to be a quick, easy lay. He may have breached the outer walls of her defense, but he had yet to make it into the castle. For that he would have to gain her trust. He laid the blame for Annabel's skittishness at her ex-husband's feet. Intellectually he understood she would have a hard time trusting him, or any man for that matter; just as he understood why he'd had to work so hard for her to go out on a date with him. He had been witness to her husband's infidelity. Yet understanding the reasons behind her hesitancy didn't stop him from wanting to grab her by the shoulders and shake some sense into her. Dammit couldn't she feel the connection between them? He'd felt it the minute he'd laid eyes on her. The time between making the date and picking her up tried his patience more than anything else or the last three weeks. As it was, it was exactly seven o'clock when Jason knocked on 57

Jayelle Drewry Annabel's front door. Night had just fallen, and her front door light was on. The door opened almost immediately and he had to fight to keep from smiling. She must have been standing right on the other side, there was no other way she could have answered the door so quickly. She was as eager and impatient as he was, though he bet he'd never get her to admit it. As she stood there, he thought she was battling herself, whether or not she should ask him in. "Would you like to come in?" Her voice was calm but Jason couldn't help but note her white-knuckled grip on the door handle. He decided to be nice. "I would love to," he paused watching her eyes round, "but we don't have time." He could practically see her shoulders relax. She offered him a smile, the first one of the night. "Then I'll just get my coat and purse." It was late fall, and the nights were cool. Stepping back, she turned to retrieve the items. Jason followed her in. They reached for her coat at the same time and their hands met. Jason took the garment from her. "Here let me help you." He held the coat open. He could see the indecision in her eyes, the urge to decline his offer of help. She really was nervous. That wouldn't do at all. "Come on Annabel. I won't bite." Yet, he added to himself. Annabel turned her back to him so he could slip the coat up her arms. Stepping close as he did so, he caught the scent of her perfume. It was the same fragrance he had given her earlier today. Hands cupping her shoulders, he couldn't resist pulling her back to rest slightly against his chest. Dipping his head down, he whispered into her ear. "Did you think of me when you put your perfume on?" Annabel had put her hair up into a loose knot, bearing her ears and neck. A few wispy tendrils stirred with his breath, and he could feel her shiver in response. His lips were close enough 58

Waking Annabel

he could have taken a love bite. For a moment he was tempted, yet he had promised no biting. This close, her scent was stronger, more intoxicating. Jason thought of stripping her and searching out each and every one of her pulse points. He imagined the feel of her warm silky skin, the taste of her on his tongue. His cock stretched and lengthened in response to his thoughts. Letting go of her shoulders, he took a step back, distancing himself from temptation. "Is that it?" His voice was a little husky to his own ears. When Annabel nodded, he placed a hand on the small of her back and gently ushered her out the front door. Out on the stoop she turned back to lock the door, then turned to face him again. "Ready." She smiled up at him. "Good. Let's go." Jason smiled back, placed his hand on the small of her back, and they walked to his car. Opening the passenger door, he handed her inside. As she slid in, her black skirt rode up revealing black stocking clad thighs. She quickly smoothed the material down. Even then it was two or three inches above her knee. Seated, she looked up at him. Thankfully, he had managed to pull his gaze up from her lap. But from this vantage point, with him standing above her, it was a battle to look in her face and not down her the front of her turquoise sweater. The sweater wasn't overly tight, still it conformed to her shape, and the v-neck revealed her cleavage. "Where are we going?" She voice sounded natural. He thought she must be relaxing. She really didn't need to catch him ogling her. "It's a surprise." With that he shut the door, and crossed the front of the car to the driver's side. The car ride was silent, but not uncomfortably so. Thirty minutes later, as Jason pulled up for valet service, Annabel turned to look at him. 59

Jayelle Drewry "The Sun Dial, I've heard wonderful things about the Sun Dial." He could hear the excitement in her voice. Located on the top three floors of the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel, the Sun Dial consisted of a bar, an observatory view level, and a restaurant. All three levels rotated, offering a 360-degree view of Atlanta. If you wanted to impress a date, without going over board without the pretentiousness of the Ritz, the Sun Dial was it. "Yep. As we eat we can see the Olympic Park, the CNN Center, the World of Coca-Cola, Turner Field, the Georgia Dome, Stone Mountain Park, and the Margaret Mitchell House. Then after dinner, we can head to the bar to listen to the live jazz band. It's like having a week of dates wrapped up into one." He winked at her. Then the valet came up to park their car. As Jason handed off the keys, another valet opened the door for Annabel. Jason joined her at the front of the car and they proceeded into the hotel lobby. Jason gave his name at the front desk before leading her to the glass elevator. They were the only two in the glass elevator, as they rose to the 72nd floor more and more of the Atlanta skyline was revealed. Annabel reached out a hand to touch the glass, as if she could touch the view before her. "Oh, Jason, this is incredible." She turned to look at him. Their eyes met, and time seemed to stop. Smiling softly, he could detect no reserve or hesitancy in her eyes. Her demeanor was warm and welcoming, giving him a glimpse of the woman inside. At that moment she took his breath away, and he felt an odd sensation in the pit of his stomach. The soft ding announced their arrival to the restaurant and broke the connection between them. Snapping out of his daze, Jason credited the slowing of the 60

Waking Annabel

elevator with the strange feeling in the pit of his stomach. "Wait until you see the view from the restaurant. After dinner, we'll go up to the observatory deck. It is without a doubt the best view in town." As they stepped out of the elevator, they were greeted by the maitre d'hotel. "Mr. O'Brien. We are happy to have you with us this evening. Your table is ready, if you will step this way." They were shown to their table. Jason walked slightly behind Annabel, his hand on the small of her back. He could feel the warmth of her skin through the material, walked close enough to catch the faint scent of her perfume. Their table was in a darkened corner and no other tables or patrons obstructed their view. That coupled with the dim lighting gave a sense of intimacy. When their waiter arrived he, too, greeted Jason by name. After sharing the chef specials of the evening, he placed the menus by Jason's elbow and left. "Well, do you see anything particularly interesting?" Annabel was studying the menu with such serious intent, Jason couldn't help but wonder what she would order. Would she go for the light meal so many women chose on the first date? Or would she go for the gusto and order to suit her appetite? Closing the menu, Annabel offered a self-depreciating smile and shrugged her shoulders. "I'm sure the specials are wonderful. But I'm not into experimenting. I think I would like the beef tenderloin." "Ah, a woman after my own heart. I love a good slice of beef too." Even as he nodded in approval at her entrée selection, it was her other comment that he analyzed. She was not into experimenting? Why? Did that hesitancy apply to her food selections only? If so, he was going to have to work on 61

Jayelle Drewry expanding her horizons. The waiter returned and Jason ordered for both of them. Annabel declined wine with her meal, another facet of her personality he recorded for future reference. She was not a wine drinker. Once the waiter left, Jason set about putting Annabel at ease. He was his most charming, asking about any projects she had at work, inquiring about her partners. The neutral conversation relaxed her, and by the time their meal arrived, their conversation had turned to music, books, and drama. Of course the conversation served two purposes. One, it gave Jason an insight into Annabel's interests, likes, and dislikes. This was information he could use to advance his courtship. Second, it was non-threatening, allowing Annabel to become comfortable in his presence. That too would further his courting and seduction of Annabel. He reminded himself to keep his eye on the prize. *** The night had been wonderful; Jason had been the perfect date, polite, attentive, entertaining. He'd put absolutely no pressure on her in any way shape or form. He'd been the perfect gentleman. After dinner, they'd gone to the observatory deck. It would have been the perfect place to steal a kiss. Instead, he'd pointed out the different landmarks. The only time he'd touched her, was to place his palm at the small of her back. Even then the touch had been light, casual, not sexual at all. Yet each time, it had been like a hot brand, burning his touch into her skin. He'd walk slightly behind her, close enough she could smell his cologne. He smelled yummy. Perversely, each time he touched her, each time she felt his presence beside her or behind her, she became sexually aware of him. Simply being in his presence was exciting, causing butterflies to flutter in her stomach. But now it was coming to an end. Walking up the front 62

Waking Annabel

walk to her house with Jason beside her, Annabel's heart was pounding so hard she thought it was going to explode. Would he try to kiss her now? She wanted him to kiss her. She wanted to feel his lips caressing hers, his body pressing against hers. By playing the gentleman, he had in fact caused her to want more. They stopped and faced one another at her front door. Annabel shifted her feet nervously, breaking eye contact as she searched her handbag for the house keys. She hadn't had a first date in years, since Andrew. Annabel had no clue what to do. Kiss him goodnight? Invite him in? What? Unfortunately she immediately located them, and had nothing else to do but look up into Jason's eyes. She noted his face had that intense look men get when they were contemplating kissing, his eyes were dark and heavy lidded. She could feel her pulse pounding in her neck—surely it was visible. Could he hear her heartbeat? It pounded against her rib cage like a wild thing. Nervous or not, she wanted him to kiss her. Her eyes drifted closed, she leaned forward. Jason took the keys from her hand and unlocked her door. Then he gently pushed her across the threshold. He made no move to go inside or crowd her. Taking her hand and turning the palm upward, he dropped her house keys into the moist crevice. Stunned she could do nothing but stare up into his face. He hadn't kissed her. Why hadn't he kissed her? She'd had a good time, maybe he hadn't. The thought was horrifying, embarrassing. "Annabel, I had a good time tonight." Jason leaned against the doorframe. His posture was casual, non-threatening. "I'd like to see you again." "Me, too." Annabel relaxed. He wanted another date. Okay. She did too. So why hadn't he kissed her? He grinned at her. "Is it gonna take three more weeks?" 63

Jayelle Drewry Annabel blushed. "No, it won't take three weeks." "Then how about next weekend? I have tickets to the Fox." Jason straightened. "Okay. That sounds fun." Annabel was proud of how calm she sounded, as if she as used to standing on her front porch making dates. Dating wasn't so hard. So far nothing had happened that she couldn't handle. But then, he hadn't tried to kiss her goodnight either. If his goodnight kiss was anything like the kiss he gave her in her office this afternoon; she had some serious concerns that she might melt on the spot. Maybe it was for the best he hadn't taken her up on her silent offer. "Well, I'm off. I'll call you this week." A casual farewell. A friendly farewell. What had happened to the man who had tirelessly pursued her? "That sounds good. Be careful driving home." Annabel's response was just as casual and relaxed. Jason leaned over and softly kissed her on the cheek. Then he turned and walked to his car, leaving behind a stunned Annabel. No bone melting kiss, just a brotherly peck on the cheek. Annabel was torn between relief and ire. Relief that she wouldn't be reduced to a puddle at his feet, vexation that he hadn't kissed her senseless. She watched him climb into his car before she turned and shut her front door. *** Jason drove off smiling. Gotcha. He had her number now. Annabel Sullivan was a fake. She wanted a gentleman in public, but not in private. He could give her that, boy could he give her that. She wanted to be wined, dined, and treated like a lady. In public. That was fine with him. He needed a lady by his side. Wanted a lady, lady being the key term. What was that his dad always said? Something about a lady in the parlor, a whore in the 64

Waking Annabel

bedroom. Jason couldn't remember it exactly, just the gist. So he'd show her he could be a gentleman. Let her be the lady of the parlor. Then, he'd teach her to be anything but a lady in the bedroom. Annabel loved the theatre. Next weekend he'd take her to the Fox. He'd lied, he didn't have tickets. But he'd have them by next weekend. It didn't matter how much the damn things cost. Hopefully, it wouldn't be a musical. He really didn't see the appeal in watching people caterwaul about what they were thinking or feeling. Still, if that was all he could get, then his ass would be sitting there with a smile on. It was all part of the game plan. Tonight he'd forgone kissing her. She had no idea of the self-control it had taken not to kiss her. He'd wanted to plaster her up against the door and take up where they'd left off in her office. But that would have been a bad idea. Instead, he'd played it cool and casual. He had seen the frustration in her eyes tonight. He'd noted her body language that had signaled she wanted him to kiss her goodnight. Next time, he'd kiss her. He was going to lead her slowly into this, build her hunger and in the process frustrate her a little. By the time he had her in his bed, she was going to be as hungry and eager as he was.

65

Jayelle Drewry

Five

Annabel, or Annie, as she was beginning to think of herself, leaned back in her desk chair. She couldn't work, she could barely think about work; Jason seemed to consume her thoughts. She had no problems thinking about him. Day or night, it didn't matter. He was always there in the back of her mind. What have I gotten myself into? A whirlwind romance, that's what. I've been wined and dined. I have the attention of one of the sexiest men in Atlanta. What am I gonna do with it? Or better yet, with him? If she had ever thought that Andrew had swept her off her feet, Jason quickly dispelled that notion. Never had Annabel been the recipient of such intense male attention. For the first time in her life Annabel was being courted. He gave whole new meaning to the word courtship. They went to movies, plays, and concerts. He sent flowers and candy. He called her at night just to say sleep tight. He called her in the morning just to say hello. He showed up unexpectedly with lunch, or breakfast, or just to see her. In a thousand ways he told her she was a sexy, exciting woman. Annabel was blooming. She had always been a great dresser, choosing stylish, but modest clothing. But now, now she wore clothes that shouted she was proud to be a woman. Short skirts, form fitting blouses, silks and satins, and soft sensual clothing filled her closet. She wanted to call attention to herself, wanted to Jason to look at her with desire. And he did, he just 66

Waking Annabel

didn't act on what she could see burning in his eyes. With Andrew, Annabel had always acted with the best of decorum. Polite smiles and soft polite laughs, for a polite facade, covering a failed marriage. Yet, with Jason, she laughed, loudly, freely. She joked. She smiled for no reason. Annabel became Annie. All traces of Annabel crumbled under Jason's onslaught. The coolness and formality wiped away by the confidence Jason's attention had inspired, a confidence Annabel hadn't really been aware she was lacking. A confidence sorely tried and shaken, nearly destroyed by Andrew's infidelities. Yet Jason never pushed her sexually. Sometimes she would catch him watching her, a hungry look in his eyes, tenseness in his body. But he never pushed. He let her set the pace. Oh, but he touched…a hand on her back or waist as they walked through a crowded room. Light touches on her face or hand to gain her attention. And the kisses...light pecks that left her burning for more...a gentle rubbing of lips and light flick of the tongue. Just enough to tighten her stomach, awaken her hunger, but not appease it. But there was no heavy petting, and Annabel craved heavy petting. She wanted to rub against him, bury her nose in his neck, and inhale his scent. Strangely, sometimes watching the casual display of his muscles and strength, she wanted to bite him. Bite him! He was driving her insane. Insane! Her body and mind were a mass confusion of desires and frustrations. Annabel had become an expert at masturbation, especially since she now engaged in it almost nightly. In the beginning, she was able to quickly bring herself to release and go to sleep. But recently thoughts during the day left her aching, and she absolutely refused to repeat that experience. She would not get off in her office again. But, oh, how she wanted it, needed it. Something, 67

Jayelle Drewry or someone, had to give soon. If she went on like this much longer, she would be going home during lunch just to relieve herself. Even with her growing confidence and desire, Annabel was scared to take the final step. Scared to trust in Jason and his desire for her. Scared to trust in herself and her ability to please him. She had been a complete failure as a wife. Andrew had said, even before the divorce, that her sexual insecurity was his rationale for his constant infidelities. No matter how hard she had tried to please him, she was never successful. Nor had he been able to please her. Consequently, self-doubt plagued her. What would happen when Jason tried to take their relationship to the next level? Would she be able to do it? Sure, she had learned how to please herself, but could she please him? "Annie!" The call came from downstairs. "You have another delivery!" Jumping up from her desk, Annabel headed down the stairs. She would never run, but she was moving at a quick pace. A wide smile stretched across her face as she reached the bottom step. All three of her friends stood there, grinning like fools. Sally handed the small box, wrapped in silver and white paper, to her. "Girl, you have got to put that man out of his misery." Instead of leaving Annabel to open the present in privacy, they all followed her up the stairs and into her office. Annabel placed the box on her desk and sat down in her chair. She made no move to open the package. "Well," Renee was her usual impatient herself, "open the damn thing before we all expire from curiosity." "I thought curiosity killed the cat," Annabel teased her. "It did, and everyone knows satisfaction brought him back. Now open it. At least we can live vicariously through you." With 68

Waking Annabel

that statement, Renee perched on the side of the desk. The other two crowded around as well. She took her time opening the gift, slipping a fingernail under each piece of tape and gently removing it from the paper. "Good God, if you tease him the way you're teasing us, the man is going to die from frustration." Laura had lost her patience, too. Annabel couldn't explain this was the first time a man had taken the time, or made the effort, to court her, and that she enjoyed the build up of slowly opening the box. The wonder and the suspense was much more intoxicating to her than what was inside the box. Ignoring them, she gently folded the paper and opened the box. White tissue paper covered whatever was inside, and a folded note rested on top. She opened the note and slowly read it. A flush climbed her neck and cheeks. Renee grasped the note from Annabel's hand, and quickly scanned the lines before Annabel could stop her. "'You are a sensual delight meant to be savored slowly and thoroughly. I love the way you smell. I crave the way you taste. I await the time you will let me indulge all my senses,'" Renee read aloud, then handed the note to the other two. "My God, the man is lethal." "I know." Annabel gently pulled back the tissue to reveal a mound of chocolate truffles. Immediately all four women plucked a sweet from the box. A round of moans filled the room as each bit into a truffle. "Mmm, I'm in love." "This is better than sex." "He's a keeper." Making no reply, Annabel leaned back in her chair, eyes closed, chocolate melting in her mouth. They were right, Jason O'Brien was a keeper. He was definitely worth the risk. Was she 69

Jayelle Drewry scared? Yes. Was she going to take the chance? Yes. Was she ready to take that chance? Yes. But what was he waiting for? Maybe she hadn't made herself plain enough; maybe he was waiting for a signal from her, before he went any farther. Maybe, maybe, maybe. Whatever the maybe, the waiting, the wanting was going to end soon. She was in danger of dying from frustration. "When are you going to see him again?" Sally quirked her brows at her. "Tonight. He's taking me out to eat." Sally nodded knowingly. "Where?" "Don't know." She spoke softly, head down, pretending to study the chocolates. It really didn't matter where he was taking her as long as they were together. The phone on her desk rang. Leaning over to answer it, she saw that it was her private line. Only one person had ever called her on that line. She couldn't stop the smile from stretching across her face. "Look at that sappy smile. I don't need to guess who's calling." Rene stood up. "Come on ladies, let's give the love birds some privacy." They filed out as the phone rang again. Rene turned at the door. "Tell him we loved the chocolates." "I will, now leave and shut the door behind you." She was going to leap across the desk and shut it if Rene didn't. The phone rang for the third time. Grinning, Rene pulled the door closed. Butterflies fluttering in her stomach, she picked up the receiver. "Hello" "Hi. I'm not interrupting something am I?" Even over the phone line, his voice had a seductive note. 70

Waking Annabel

"No, nothing important. I was just sitting here enjoying a truffle." "You got them. I was wondering when they would be delivered. Are they any good?" "Incredible. I don't know how I'm going resist temptation and not eat them all at once." She might not eat them all, but she wasn't lying. She wouldn't be able to stop with one. Her only hope lay in sharing them with her friends. None of them would be able to resist. "That's my job, to tempt you." His voice deepened, became suggestive. "You're doing a good job." That, too, was the truth. He was temptation in itself. "Good." She could hear satisfaction in his voice. "I called to see if I could have you for the rest of the weekend." Annabel's heart skipped a beat at his choice of words. He wanted to have her for the rest of the weekend? She'd love for him to have her. "Maybe. What do you have in mind?" She kept her voice casual. "A trip up to North Carolina. We're only three or four hours from Asheville. We could stay at the Biltmore Inn, check out the Biltmore House…" There was a silent pause. Annabel had a decision to make. It was now or never. "Okay, that sounds great. I've never been to Asheville." She hung up a few minutes later after having agreed on a time to leave. She was stunned and nervous by the decision she had made. She was going away for the weekend. She was going away with Jason. This weekend would be a new turn in their relationship. She was agreeing to the change, the added intimacy. Intimacy terrified her. Strange, now that she thought about it, sex with Andrew had never been an intimate act. It had been a 71

Jayelle Drewry duty, an obligation she had to fulfill. In the end she had participated physically, on autopilot. She couldn't imagine Jason allowing any woman to operate on autopilot. Any woman in his bed would be a full participant. Annabel clinched her thighs together to ease the ache there; the thought of being in his bed excited her as much as it scared her. Deep down, she knew that after this weekend she would never be the same again. But Annabel wasn't going to back down. She wanted it, him, with every fiber in her being. She wanted to feel him, skin to skin. Taste him, touch him. Revel in him. She wanted it with an intensity that terrified her. The only thing that terrified her more was the thought of never lying with him. Never knowing how he felt, beside her, in her. Never knowing his touch, taste. Reaching over, she poked through the tissue paper and selected another truffle. Then she had the most inane thought cross her mind. Life and a box of chocolates. How true. How true. Andrew had seduced her in the guise of a giant chocolate bunny with candy bows and flowers, packaged in the fancy colored foil. And just like a chocolate bunny, he'd been hollow inside. Jason on the other hand, was a box of expensive truffles. The inside was as delicious as the outer shell. The truffle needed no additional adornment to tempt a buyer. One had but to take a bite to know heaven. And become addicted. Annabel bit the truffle. She closed her eyes and savored the taste. It was incredible, an orgasm for the mouth. Swallowing, she popped the other half into her mouth. Whatever the outcome, she was taking the next step this weekend. Jason O'Brien was going to be her lover. For how long, she didn't know. In all the time they had spent together, Jason had never mentioned love or commitment. She didn't know how he felt about her. But she did know he made her feel more alive, 72

Waking Annabel

more womanly, and desirable than she had ever felt in her life. Her desire for him outweighed her fear of being hurt. She wanted him for as long as she could have him. Sitting up, she pushed the box away. No more chocolate. She'd had two, anymore and she'd be sick to her stomach. She needed to finish as early as she could today. For the first time she was going to leave work early. Annabel wanted to get home in plenty of time to pack. Plus she wanted time to get herself ready as well, mentally and physically. She would hate for their first intimate encounter to involve hair-stubbled legs. *** Annabel wasn't the only one facing some serious uncertainties. Jason was, too. For the last few weeks he had been playing a role, an unfamiliar role. In his determination to have Annabel, he had forced himself to become someone he was not. He was not a passive man, socially or sexually. He was used to being in control, demanding and dominating. Jason never would have been successful in business if he had been a yes man. For Annabel he had adopted some of those qualities. But he couldn't continue the ruse. For years he had had a secret contempt for men he saw as submissive to their wives. But Annabel was showing him something else entirely. It wasn't necessarily submission, it was consideration. He wanted to make her happy. He wanted to do things with her that made her laugh and smile. But he was beginning to feel the restraint, too, of not giving into his needs and desires. Annabel was driving him crazy. Before his eyes she was changing, metamorphosing. The way she dressed, in fitted suits, constantly drew attention to her sleek body. Her laugh. Before her laugh had been polite, moderate. Now, it had a husky, sexy quality. The biggest change, though, 73

Jayelle Drewry was in the way she carried herself. She had a walk that was hypnotic, an air that drew the eye and caused men to watch her walk past. What really drove him insane was the look in her eyes. She wanted him. He could see the banked fires there, burning for him. He knew it was there because he had spent weeks building it, driving himself nearly mad in the process. If he had to spend one more night jacking off he was going to start growing hair on his palms. Opening the trunk of his car, he threw in his overnight bags. Whistling, he got into the car, and pulled out of the garage. Well, this weekend will answer all the questions. The gentle, newly discovered side of Jason knew Annabel needed consideration. She had not had a lover in two years. Her husband had badly shaken her confidence as a woman. The first time, he would go slowly, ease himself into her. His cock thickened at the thought of how she'd feel. Tight, hot, almost like a virgin. A tent, his cock was now tenting the front of his pants. Later, once she was accustomed to him, he would introduce her to a different kind of sex play. Annabel had taught him the pleasure of gentleness. He wanted to teach her the pleasure of surrender, of giving her partner complete control. The things he wanted to do to her would probably take the rest of his life. Images of Annabel, above him, below him, kneeling in front of him, raced through his mind. Annabel, kneeling in front of him. Licking his cock, nibbling his sac. Those pretty lips of hers painted a deep red, wrapped around him, sucking for all she was worth. He would teach her how to relax her throat, to swallow him. Swallow his come and love it. Then, after she had sucked him off, she would turn that sweet little ass up to him. That, that was what he wanted. He wanted the ultimate surrender from her. He needed it from her. There was something about anal penetration that he couldn't put into words. The sensations were 74

Waking Annabel

incredible, like nothing he had ever experienced, the tightness and heat. The forbiddance of the act itself was addictive. But it was the trust a woman gave to her partner, the willingness to give up control to another, that really turned him on. The thin line of pleasure or pain and potential for both, knowing he was giving her both, simultaneously… Jason shifted in his seat, reaching down to readjust himself. Damn, how was he supposed to pick her up, with a hard on poking out like the Empire State Building? Hell, how was he supposed to stand up?

75

Jayelle Drewry

Six

"Wow. It's hard to believe we're only fours hours from Atlanta." Annabel was looking at the mountains out the car window. Jason took his eyes off the road long enough to glance at Annabel. She was paying rapt attention to the passing scenery. She found the mountains to be beautiful. He found her to be more so. "It's hard to believe. Wait until you see the Biltmore House." Annabel was going to go crazy in that place. The art, the furniture, the fabric. She was going to love it. Annabel hid her sensual nature well, but it found an outlet in design. He could see it in the way she addressed the senses when creating a new design, the furnishings and floor covering a tactile delight to the senses. She had a highly developed sense of touch. Jason had watched her run a hand over a piece of furniture just to feel the smoothness of the wood. He had watched her sink her feet into carpet, with a look close to rapture on her face. Her clothes were soft and silky to the touch. Her color schemes tended to lean toward the rich vibrant colors. The woman wasn't afraid to use color in any of her designs. Her sensuality was so glaringly obvious in her work, yet so hidden in her actions. Hopefully this weekend would see an end to that. He planned on testing that secret part of her. He wanted to reveal it and explore it with her. How sensitive was her sense of 76

Waking Annabel

touch? Would it extended to her breast? Her nipples? Some women could come from being suckled. Was Annabel one of those women? Would she appreciate the textures of his body as well? The rub of his hair roughened legs and hair against her. The scrape of his beard stubble against her tender skin. There could be a fine line between the painful and the pleasurable. How close was she willing to walk that line? "I can't wait to see it. I don't know how I'll be able to see and remember it all." Annabel turned in her seat to face him. Jason wondered if she even realized how her body language had changed. "You won't. But we'll come back." At least he hoped so. "Look! There's the sign. The inn's on the grounds. Do you think we'll be able to get a glimpse of the house?" Jason thought she sounded like a kid at Christmas. She turned to face the road. Her attention completely focused on the scenery ahead. "Maybe. It's almost dark." They had left Atlanta in the early afternoon to avoid traffic. Now it was dusk, the sun would be setting soon. His voice was indulgent. He turned onto the entrance and began the winding drive up to the Biltmore Inn. For the most part the drive was wooded. Then through an opening in the trees, Annabel caught a distant glimpse of the house. The dying rays of the sun were caught and reflected on a multitude of windows. She gasped in appreciation "It looks like a castle, like something you'd find in Europe." Jason nodded. "It was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800's. "Of the Vanderbilts?" Annabel interrupted. "Yep. Anyway, he had traveled Europe extensively. That was where he got his inspiration and many of the furnishings. He also had many modern conveniences built in as well." "Like what?" Jason could hear the curiosity in her voice. 77

Jayelle Drewry "A bowling alley, an indoor pool, electricity, an elevator." "That's amazing." Just then the inn came into view. Built of stone, the structure was meant to reflect the style of the house, but on a smaller scale. Pulling up to the portico, he unloaded their bags and handed the car over to the valet. He had to get the valet's attention. The poor guy had been spellbound the minute Annabel stepped out of the car. He understood completely, she had trapped him in her spell. He himself had been spellbound from the minute he'd laid eyes on her. Annabel was not a voluptuous woman. Her body was lean, with a gentle swell of hips and a slightly larger expanse of breast. Rather she had an exotic, feline quality. It hypnotized and mesmerized. Looking at her, Jason felt his cock begin to stir. He wondered if he would always have this reaction to her. She stood staring off into space, unaware of his and the valet's appreciative stares. Perversely, he was glad she was unaware of the admiring glances she was prey to so often. He didn't want her aware of any man other than him. She was his. This weekend he was going to stake his claim. "Let's go check in. Then get a bite to eat." "Okay." *** They had had a romantic dinner on the balcony of one of the restaurants. The lighting had been subdued, the tables well spaced and private. Holding hands, Annabel and Jason had watched the sunset behind the mountains. In no hurry, at ease with one another, they had sipped their drinks in the glow of the dying sun. Then Annabel had excused herself to go to the restroom. Leaning back in his chair, Jason stretched his legs under the 78

Waking Annabel

table and glanced around the hotel balcony. It was early yet, only eight o'clock, and there were not many hotel patrons out. He supposed it was the cool air that kept many of them inside, even though there was a raging fire in the outdoor fireplace. For that he was thankful, for it gave Annabel and him privacy. He leaned forward and grasped his drink. Then he looked up and felt an immediate clenching in his gut. Annabel was headed back to the table. Without a doubt she was the most stunning woman he had ever seen. Auburn hair, loose and flowing about her shoulders, gleamed like a new penny in the dim lights. The fire light gave her pale skin a golden glow. She moved with an innate grace that drew his eyes to sway of her hips and the glide of he legs. Desire rose up in him, fierce and primal. She was his and his need to claim her was at hand. He fought the urge to throw her over his shoulder and carry her up to their room. Tossing his drink back, he set the glass down with a click, and stood. His cock tented his pants, and had anyone cared to look they would have seen his arousal. He didn't care. He was tired of waiting to have her. He wasn't going to wait any longer. He wanted her under him, spread and open to his thrust. He wanted to watch her eyes as he buried himself in her body. He wanted to feel the clench of her body, feel her nails biting into his skin as he sent her over the edge. Tonight would see the end of that cool composure. Tonight she was going to scream out her pleasure and beg for more. His expression must have been as fierce as his thoughts, for Annabel stopped a few feet away from him. "Jason? Are you okay?" He could hear her concern and uncertainty. He tried to smooth his expression but found he couldn't. "Yes. It's time to go upstairs." He grasped her arm and had to force himself to be gentle. 79

Jayelle Drewry "What's wrong?" Annabel let him lead her back into the inn. "Nothing." Jason punched the button for the elevator. The doors opened immediately. He ushered her into the car and hit the closed button. "I know—" He spun her to face him and smothered her mouth with his. He kissed her hungrily, desperately. His tongue thrust into her mouth, as he pulled her up against him. He began to rock against her, and since she standing on her tip toes each thrust rocked his penis into the notch between her legs. Just as suddenly as the kiss began, it ended. He ripped his mouth from hers and pushed her away from him. He needed to get control, fast. They were both silent for the ride up to the suite. By the time the doors slid shut behind them, Jason had regained his control. He knew he had scared her. He could see it in her eyes, in the way she kept glancing at him from underneath her lashes. When they reached the suite, Jason held the door open for Annabel to enter first. He shut the door behind them, and miraculously regained his control. Maybe it was because he now had her in the room. Maybe it was because he could tell she was nervous and unsure, and he didn't want her to be afraid of him. She meant more to him that the satisfaction of his own needs. Annabel had crossed the room and stood looking out the window of their suite. She had her arms clasped about her. Jason stood by the door, studying the woman in front of him. Long red hair, cascading in a tangle down her back, her slender form encased in silk pants and a light, form-fitting sweater. She was a beautiful woman. A tender woman. A woman he had pursued mercilessly. He had seen her, decided he wanted her, then set about getting her. This weekend was the culmination of all his weeks, months of courting. Courting, something he had never done in his life. 80

Waking Annabel

Now, what he wanted, craved, was in his grasp. Jason was greatly afraid that the wanting, the craving, wasn't going to be satisfied by just one weekend. What had started out as a singleminded pursuit of the unattainable had become something more. The connection and attraction he had felt when first meeting her was nothing compared to what he felt now. Now what he felt bordered on obsession, possession. Straightening from the door, Jason strolled across the room to Annabel. Stopping just behind her, so close his chest brushed her back, he cupped her slight shoulders in his hands. Leaning down, he inhaled her perfume. The scent went straight to his dick and it started to throb. It was all he could do not to rub it against her ass. He promised himself, soon. There was no need to test his shaky hold on his desire. His breath stirred the hair next to Annabel's ear. He felt a minute shiver race through her body, and saw her nipples harden through her blouse. He watched her lick her lips and felt the heat radiating from her body. She looked paralyzed with fear, as if battling between the need to run and the desire to turn around, wrap her arms around his neck and kiss him. Jason wrapped his arms around her waist and placed his cheek against hers. They stared out at the view before them. "Annie, there are two bedrooms in this suite. We don't have to do anything you're not ready for." Jason had to force the words from his throat. All he really wanted to do was sweep her up in his arms and carry her to the bed. There he could make her forget all the doubts or fears she had. He closed his eyes, hoping she wouldn't choose the extra bedroom. This was it. Now or never. Did she have what it took to reach out and take what she wanted? Relief poured through him when he felt her expel her pent up breath. She turned in his arms and smiled softly. 81

Jayelle Drewry "No. I'm exactly where I want to be, doing what I want to do." Jason's expression didn't change. He had to be sure. He wanted to hear her say it. "What do you want, Annabel?" Annabel laid a gentle hand on his cheek. "You. I want you." Jason felt the tension melt from his shoulders. He hugged her tightly to him. "Thank God. I don't know what I would have done if you had said you wanted the other bedroom." Annabel leaned back to look in his face. "Die of frustration? I know I would." Jason threw his head back and laughed. "That's exactly what I would have done. Either that or quietly gone insane." Toying with the collar of Jason's shirt, Annabel met his eyes. Heat flared between them. "Kiss me." Jason groaned. "With pleasure." The kiss was slow in coming. His lips feathered gently across her face. A temple, brows, eyelids, then cheekbones and the jawline. Avoiding her lips, he moved onto her neck. He could feel her trembling, was it fear or expectation? He used his tongue and brush of his lips washed away her nervousness and uncertainty and heard her sigh in pleasure. Rather than taking, he was giving. Pleasure. Comfort. Easing her into desire. Now that he had her, he wasn't about to rush. Using the tip of his tongue, Jason slowly traced a heated trail from the bottom of her neck to the back of her ear. Once there bit he the lower lobe, then licked the sting away. She whimpered, gripping his head. Jason smiled against her neck. She was so responsive, her desire an aphrodisiac for his own. He would have her screaming before the night was over. His cock throbbed, crammed in a confining position. Without pause, he reached down to readjust himself. He paused long enough to give himself a squeeze and felt a wet spot forming. 82

Waking Annabel

Running his lips back down her neck, he stopped at the dip of her collarbone. It was such a sweet soft spot. Made for licking, sucking. Annie tightened her arms around him. Her nails clinched into his scalp. A sweet pain. "You like that, baby?" His voice whispered against her throat. "Yesssssss." Annabel's voice was low, slurred. Her head fell back, asking for more. He wanted her to ache everywhere for his touch. Using his mouth he carefully, sensually fed the hunger was growing in her. A whimper escaped from her. She rubbed her mound against the thrust of his cock, and he could feel his own need build. "You're wearing my perfume. Did you put it on all your pulse points? Did you think of me while you did it?" His tongue traced a delicate line between her breasts. "Yes." She could barely speak. "Yes, you thought of me, or yes you put it on all your pulse points?" Jason lapped at her breastbone. "Both. Jason." Her voice was a plea. Her nails kneaded his scalp. "Let's get rid of this." Her sweater dropped unnoticed at her feet, "and this." Jason unsnapped Annabel's bra and her breasts sprang free. He stared in awe. They were round and full, trembling with her shallow breathing. The peaks were a light pink, and pearled tight. His mouth watered. "You are beautiful." He raised his eyes to meet her smoky, dazed ones. Lowering his head, he licked one nipple then the other. Lifting his head, Jason gazed at his handiwork. Her nipples were flushed and gleaming with his saliva. Bending down once more, he latched onto one and suckled strongly. With a thumb and forefinger, he pinched the other, rolling the nub in 83

Jayelle Drewry synchronization with his suckling. Another rasp of his tongue and her knees buckled. She hung in his arms, unable to support her own weight. Desperate fingers held Jason's head to her breast. Without missing a beat, Jason swept her into his arms and carried her into the bedroom, then laid her gently on the bed. Pulling back, he looked at her. This was what he wanted to see. Annabel Sullivan, in his bed. Wanting him. Burning for him. He felt his balls draw up close to his shaft in anticipation. He bent over her, worshiping her breasts with his mouth. One hand traced a pattern on her abdomen and lower stomach. Slow, gentle circles around her belly button, then back up to torment the nipple he wasn't suckling. His other hand began to work the fastenings of her pants. A snap, a rasp of the zipper, and his hand slid inside over silken panties. He pressed hard against her pubic bone, and Annabel rewarded him with a cry. Then he traveled further down. The panties were damp, in no way hiding her desire. He bit her nipple and growled, then lapped the turgid peak before switching to the other to give it the same treatment. He felt her nails dig into his scalp, and her pelvis arch up against his hand. She tossed her head back and forth across the pillow as he trailed kisses down her stomach. "Annie. Oh Annie." Jason whispered her name against her stomach. He kissed the spot above her belly button, then tongued it. Curling his fingers in the waistband of her pants, he pulled them and her panties down and off at the same time. The hair between her thighs was as red as the hair on her head. Wiry, and curly, it covered the protective folds of her pussy. But it couldn't hide the aroma of her arousal. Jason eased onto the bed and lowered himself between her open thighs. A sound of distress from Annabel, accompanied by a slender hand shielding her mound, had him looking up. Her eyes were apprehensive, her 84

Waking Annabel

teeth worrying her lower lip. "It's okay." Jason kissed the hand covering her mound. He used his tongue to trace the lines between her fingers. "Let me. Just relax, baby. Relax and let me kiss you." Slowly he peeled back one finger at a time, revealing her tender folds to his gaze. Slowly, he kissed the insides of her thighs and lower abdomen, taking his time, nipping the skin with love bites, then soothing the sting with swipes from his tongue. Inhaling deeply, he drew in the scent of her arousal; it was intoxicating. Annabel squirmed and Jason kissed her pubic bone. Using his thumbs, his began to stroke the outer lips. Annabel whimpered. Deliberately, using his two thumbs he pulled back the lips to unveil her glistening clit. Lowering his mouth, Jason took a leisurely swipe. Annabel's hips shot up, and her thighs tightened. Jason's shoulders were wedged between her thighs, and effectively kept her pinned to the bed. He blew gently on her pubic hair. "Sshh. Shh. It's okay. Just relax, Annie." Then he lowered his head again. He took his time, slowly thrusting his tongue inside her, a parody of the act to come. Jason didn't want to throw her into an orgasm. It was obvious Annie was not accustomed to oral sex. He didn't want to rush her. He settled in for a slow exploration, and that was exactly what he did. A long lick from top to bottom, a probe and thrust of his tongue. The room was quiet except for the slurp of Jason's tongue and Annabel's rough breathing. Moisture flowed from her. Cries and moans escaped from her throat. Then Jason thrust his finger inside her, and set up a rhythm of thrust and parries to match the suction of her clit. Sparks exploded behind her closed eyes. She came in a powerful rush, a scream ripping from her mouth. Tremors shook her body. Jason continued to lap at her, holding her thighs apart, pushing her climax past anything she had ever experienced in her life. 85

Jayelle Drewry When the last of the tremors shook her body, he slid up to lay beside her. He took her in his arms and held her. They lay in silence, both trying to come to terms with the emotions coursing through them; Annabel shock and amazement, Jason the unknown feeling of tenderness. *** When Annie's heartbeat regulated itself, she could feel herself blush. What had she done? She had let him bury his head in her thighs, and his tongue in her pussy. That's what she had done. The act was so intimate. It was something Andrew had never been interested in doing. Due to his sexual excesses she had never gone down on him either, and she had been married to him! She felt herself stiffen in embarrassment. How could she look him in his face? When she had asked him to kiss her she hadn't meant this. What would he think? Closing her eyes, she let out a mortified groan and rolled over onto her stomach. Jason rose up on one elbow. Annabel's face was buried in the pillow, and the groan didn't sound good. "You okay?" "Yeah." Annabel nodded, but kept her face in the pillow. Frowning, Jason sat up, and scooted over to sit behind her. He ran a gentle finger down the smooth perfection of her naked spine. Absently he noted the smooth perfection of her back. "Annie. Something's wrong, can't you tell me what it is?" Jason watched her hair slide back and forth across her back as she shook her head. Jason sighed and pulled her to him. She came willingly, but refused to look him in the eyes. He leaned back against the headboard, and pulled the bedspread up over her. She leaned her head against his chest. They lay like that for a while. Annabel gradually relaxed. "Annie?" Jason's voice was low. "Mmm." She traced a pattern on his shirt. 86

Waking Annabel

"Was that the first time you had ever had oral sex?" "Yes." She was tense. "Are you embarrassed?" She nodded. Jason rolled over, putting her firmly beneath him. "Look at me." His voice was deep and compelling. Annabel met his gaze. "Don't ever, ever be embarrassed by what we do with each other. You take away the pleasure for both of us if you are." "It's just so, so..." her voice trailed off. "Intimate." Jason supplied. "Yes." "But you liked it." There was no uncertainty in his voice. "Yes." Her face reddened, but she didn't look away. Jason grinned. "A lot," he added. "Yes!" Annabel frowned and blushed at the same time again. "Wanna do it again?" Jason's voice was positively wicked. "Ye—" Annabel started to answer without thinking, but caught herself in time. "Jason O'Brien, you're a bad man." "And you're gonna love me for it." Annabel laughed. "Probably." Jason raised and lowered his brows suggestively. "Was anything else a first?" Annabel shot him a look, relaxing with the playful banter. Playfulness in bed was something she had never experienced either. "I'm not stroking your ego anymore than I already have." Jason grinned. "Oh, yeah? I got something you can stroke." With that he took her hand and led it down to his cock. She could feel it, hard and throbbing, through the material of his pants. Slowly, she unsnapped the button and inched down the zipper. Reaching in, she grasped him in her hand and gave a tentative squeeze. He rewarded her with an appreciative groan. 87

Jayelle Drewry She pulled his cock from his pants and ran her fingers up and down the length.. The softness of the skin, the underlying hardness, the gentle throb fascinated her. Her thumb rubbed over the tip and came away wet. Wanting a closer look, she slid down his chest until her breath stirred the curls surrounding his cock. It was long and thick, slightly red, and angry looking. A vein ran from the base to just under the head. It beat in time with his heart. A drop of pre-come oozed from the slit, and with a gentle thumb she wiped it away. Another immediately replaced it. She heard the hitch in his breathing. Looking up, she met his gaze over the top of his erection. A small smile curved her lips. "If this is going to be a night of firsts..." Her voice trailed off. She wasn't ready to actually voice what she was about to do. Jason closed his eyes, and cupped his hands around her face. "Baby, please." His voice was low and hoarse. Annabel lowered her eyes and studied him. She let go and watched his penis curve up to touch his belly button. Running a finger from the tip, she traced a vein to the base. She cupped his balls and, leaning closer, blew the curls covering them. They tightened and drew up; she felt Jason shiver, his hands slid from her face to cup her head. With the tip of her tongue she retraced the vein back to the tip. Jason's hands tightened, as if he were fighting not to pull her down onto him. Annabel gave into the slight push, and licked the tip. She could taste him. Slightly salty, not bad. She licked again and Jason groaned. His husky groan gave her courage. Treating him like a favored lollipop, she took a long slow swipe from root to tip. Shifting into a more comfortable position, Annabel settled in for a game of exploration. She nibbled and licked every inch, silently noting the touches that pleasured him the most. She took just the tip into her mouth and suckled. Jason groaned again. "That's it. That's it. Suck it." His voice was hoarse. 88

Waking Annabel

Annabel grasped the stalk, and began to work her hand up and down. "Just a little more, baby. Take a little more." Annabel widened her jaws and let the cap of his penis slide to the back of her throat and suckled cautiously. Rewarded with a deeper groan, Annabel set about learning how to give a blowjob. Up and down, slow, fast, varying the pace until she found the one that she instinctively knew would push him over the edge. Her hand worked in time with her mouth and tongue. "Oh, Annabel. Oh, yesssss." Jason's voice was low, deep, his words slurred. "That's it. Just a little harder. Deeper." Annabel complied and using her lips and tongue, robbed him of speech. When he groaned in pained pleasure, Annabel quickened her pace. "Annie, please. Baby you gotta stop. I can't...I can't—" "It's okay. I want you to. Just relax. Let go." The need and desperation Annabel heard in his voice gave her all the encouragement she needed. She wanted to do this. Needed to do this. Needed to please him, as he had pleased her. When he raised his head to watch, she slowed her movements. She took him deeper into her mouth and leisurely slid back up to the cap. he grasped himself at the lowest point of her descent. Then he began to thrust in time with her. Sensing he was near the edge, Annabel quickened her pace. Moments later, she heard his cry of pleasure, and felt him pulse in her mouth. His sperm spattered against the back of her throat. His big body trembled, brought to satisfaction by her. Slowly, she let him slip out of her mouth. Sitting up, she looked at his face. When his eyes met hers, she licked her lips. Jason reached up and pulled her into his arms. "Annie, you're gonna kill me." He kissed the top of her head. 89

Jayelle Drewry Annabel chuckled, supremely pleased with herself. For a first timer she didn't think she had done too badly. If Jason's reaction was any to judge, she had done a fine job. Blow job. She felt herself flush with pride and a slight amount of embarrassment as she grinned to herself. Annabel Sullivan, going down on a man. Annie Sullivan gives good head. "What's funny?" Jason's voice rumbled against her ear. Sighing, she tilted her head to look up at him. "Nothing." Annabel laid her head on his chest. "Hmmm. A man can't have a woman laughing in his bed. I'm afraid you're gonna have to pay for that. " Jason rolled her under him. Still in the flush of satisfaction from their earlier play, Annabel was relaxed and contented. Performance anxiety was not a problem. "Really? How?" Annabel's voice was quizzical, teasing. "Oh, I have my ways. If I can build entire housing complexes, I know I can build a fire in you." She ran a finger along his bottom lip. "Build yes, but that's not the question. Can you put it out? That's what I want to know." Annabel just realized what Jason had recognized immediately. There was a sensual fire burning within her. "Oh, baby. Don't you worry about that. I'll have you ripping the sheets." "Promises, promises." Annabel taunted him. Jason stood up, and without undoing any of the buttons, he pulled his shirt over his head and dropped it to the floor. Then he pushed his pants and briefs down and stepped out of them. He grasped the sheet to pull it back Annabel sat up, clutching the sheet to her breast, and stopped him. Jason had a beautiful body, and she wanted to see it. She took her time. His shoulders were broad, waist narrow, 90

Waking Annabel

stomach flat. Construction work had given him a trim muscular physique. He wasn't overly muscled. He was just, just...perfect. Trim, cut. A light covering of body hair. Getting to her knees, she ran a hand along his torso. His chest hair tickled her palm. Using a fingernail, she scraped a flat brown nipple and felt him tense. She looked up, concerned. "Hurt?" Jason gave a rusty chuckle. "No." Nodding, Annabel went back to her exploration. Hands skimmed down his front to grasp his waist, testing the firmness with a squeeze, then dipped a finger into his navel. She went on to study his thighs and buttocks. All she encountered was firm muscle and a light covering of body hair. He truly had a beautiful body. It didn't take long for her careful study to have obvious results. His penis stretched, and grew until it rested against his abdomen, just below his bellybutton. But he didn't rush her. She circled her fingers around it, or tried to, her fingertips didn't quiet meet. She could feel his heartbeat. She slowly ran her hand up and down the length of him, amazed at the silky feel of his skin. It was so soft, smooth, hot. When she ran a fingernail along the rim of his cap, Jason shifted restlessly, but didn't pull away. Still holding him, she looked up. "Like that?" "Yeah." His voice was rough, deep. Annabel smiled. "Good." She squeezed. "I thought guys couldn't...you know." He cocked an eyebrow. She blushed. "Well you just..." Annabel might have become aquatinted with his body, but she couldn't make herself talk explicitly. She couldn't quite overcome her mother's admonition a lady never used vulgarity. "Come." Jason supplied the word for her. 91

Jayelle Drewry "Yes." "Well, when a guy wants someone as bad as I want you, we can keep going for quite a while. So in case you're wondering...yeah, we're gonna do it again, soon, because I don't think he," Jason nodded to his cock in Annabel's hand, "is going to be happy until he gets to know you a lot better." "I thought I got to know him pretty well a few minutes ago." Jason chuckled, and removed her hand. "Move over." He slid under the sheet, and propped himself up on an elbow. "Oh, that was just a hello. He wants a longer, more in-depth conversation." "In-depth?" Jason leaned over her and whispered, "Yeah. Longer. In. Depth." "Good."

92

Waking Annabel

Seven

They kissed. And kissed. And kissed. Long kisses. Slow kisses. Tongues mated, explored the insides of each other's mouths. Both had had their immediate needs satisfied. The initial burst of desire and uncertainty quieted. Anxiety gone, Annabel and Jason relaxed and enjoyed the foreplay. Jason glided his lips along her neck and found the sensitive area behind her neck. Gently, he bit and Annabel shuddered in response. His hands skimmed down the sides of her body, fingers lightly running over her skin. Seeming to ignore her breasts and pussy, he concentrated on all the other erogenous areas—the skin just below her breast, the sides of her waist, her upper thighs, shoulders, and inner elbows. For the first time in his life, Jason was making love. He was not concentrating on how much pleasure he was getting out of the experience, but instead solely on Annabel. The smell and texture of her skin, the delicate formation of her body, he was intrigued and entranced. Her pleasure was his pleasure. His heartbeat was a slow and steady throb, and it echoed in his cock. Rising up, he rolled her over onto her stomach. He wanted to know every part of her, every inch of her. Brand her with his touch. Straddling her lower thighs, Jason sat up. Annabel's hair was a fiery tangle across her shoulders and the pillow. Reaching out, he pushed the heavy mass off her back, then began a slow, firm massage. Starting at her shoulders, he worked his way down 93

Jayelle Drewry to the dip of her lower back. Each time he leaned forward his cock pressed into the cleft of her ass. Each time he leaned back, a shiny trail of pre-cum followed. When Jason had rolled her over, his penis wedged itself between her butt cheeks and he felt her tense. But when he tenderly pushed her hair from her back and began to knead her shoulders, she melted into the mattress. The thrust and pull of his penis became part of the erotic rubdown. He heard her breath hitch and she began to slowly thrust her hips up to meet his. Pulling her buttocks apart, Jason rested his cock in the crack, then squeezed the two globes together. They rocked in motion together, a slow parody of intercourse. Resting his chest on her back, Jason let go of her ass and slid his hands around, letting one hand thumb a nipple, while the other worked its way down to her cunt. Still thrusting from behind, he began to rub her clit. The rhythmic thrusting, and the simultaneous stimulation of nipple and clit had Annabel rushing headlong into an orgasm. Sensing she was near, Jason thrust two fingers into her soaking wet pussy. Curving his fingers upward, he rubbed the vaginal wall behind her pubic bone, using the heel of his palm to grind against her clit. Feeling her body stiffen, he quickened his pace: hips and fingers throwing her headlong into the most powerful climax of her life. Annabel screamed. She thrashed then she melted boneless into the mattress. Pulling his fingers from the tight grip of Annabel's vagina, Jason rose to his knees behind her. He couldn't wait any longer. He had to be inside her. Now! Gripping her hips, he pulled her up to a kneeling position. Annabel's head and upper torso were still on the mattress, but her knees thrust her ass up in the air. He could see the slick, pouting lips, begging for his cock. Her clit and labia were swollen with arousal. Using one hand to open her 94

Waking Annabel

up for him, he guided the head of his cock with the other to the entrance of her pussy. He rubbed his head up and down the slit, combining their moisture. Then he slowly pressed forward. It was a tight fit. The width of his head stretched her vaginal opening. Annabel moaned and rotated her hips. Jason froze, briefly afraid he was hurting her. Then Annabel moaned again and thrust her hips back at him. That was all the encouragement he needed. Gripping her hips tightly, Jason began to work his way into her body, inch by inch. She was like a too-tight glove. He felt as if he were forging a place for himself in her body. Feelings of possession and love overwhelmed him, and he thrust himself home the last few inches. Jason squeezed her hips. Leaning over her, he kissed his way up her spine, holding himself in her, not thrusting. Slowly, she relaxed and pushed herself up and back against him. "That's it, baby. Relax for me. You can take it. Just relax." His voice was low and husky. Jason began a slow and easy rhythm. In and out. Long and slow, giving Annabel's body time to adjust to his. In. Deep. Pause. Slow pull out. Slow thrust in. Again and again. A few thrusts later Annabel gave him the signal he was waiting for. She began thrusting back, trying to make him quicken his pace. "What do you want?" Annabel couldn't answer him. Again she tried to make him quicken his pace. Jason tightened his grip and refused to let her take control. The first two orgasms had been hers. This one was his. "Come on, Annie. Tell me what you want." He punctuated the demand with a couple of quick hard thrusts. She thrust back, hard against him. Impaling herself on him. Then she squeezed her interior muscles in an attempt to keep him there. Jason threw his head back, "Oh, Annie. That's it, baby. You 95

Jayelle Drewry want it harder? Faster?" "Yes," was ripped from Annabel's throat. It was all the confirmation Jason needed. He pounded into her. Hard, deep thrusts.. Annabel pushed up on her arms, better able to thrust back against him. Sweat poured off of both of them. He could smell sex in the room. She began to tighten on him as he pulled out, milking his cock. "Jason, please." Annabel was all but sobbing. Jason realized Annabel was at her limit; she needed to come. Reaching around, he rolled her clit between two fingers, and began a quick pump on it, much like a hand job. Annabel screamed. Her pussy clamped down, tight as a fist. He could feel the orgasm rocket through her. Grabbing both hips, Jason began powering into her, madly thrusting. When his release came, it came with the force of a Mack truck. His body jerked three, four times in response. As his sperm jetted into her, he had to fight the primal urge to roar in triumph. Annabel collapsed, Jason on top of her. Then he rolled, carrying her with him, until they lay spooned front to back, with him still inside her. Neither could speak as they lay there, trying to catch their breath, to calm their pounding hearts. Annabel sighed deeply, stretched, and Jason slipped free. He tightened his arm around her waist. "Feel good?" He kissed the ball of her shoulder. "Yes. Incredible." She burrowed closer to him. *** They continued to lie there, basking in the afterglow. As the minutes crept by, Annabel became aware of the sweat drying on her body, the sweat still collecting where their flesh met. She could feel the stickiness of their passion between her legs. Annabel's fastidiousness came to the surface. As much as she enjoyed lying there with him, she needed a shower. 96

Waking Annabel

Rolling onto her stomach, she eyed Jason through a tangle of russet curls. He had to be one of the sexiest men she had ever seen. Just thinking about the things they had done sent a shudder of desire through her body. "I need a shower." Annabel was shocked at the sound of her voice. It was husky, sexy, and suggestive. "Want me to scrub your back?" Suddenly the intimacy became too much for her. Annabel needed to escape. Needed to be alone. This wasn't her. She didn't recognize herself. The perceptions Annabel had of her sexuality were forever changed. She sat up, her back to Jason. "No. No company this time. Just me and some really hot water." As she spoke she looked around, looking for something to wear. The things she had done, that she had let him do...Oh, God. She really needed to get to the bathroom. She needed some time, a few minutes to straighten out her head, her thoughts. Come to terms with the feelings coursing through her body. Jason sat up.. "Annabel?" Annabel felt him shifting behind her. Just then she spied Jason's shirt and leaped from the bed, snatching it off the floor and pulling it over her head in fast, jerky movements, her natural grace gone in her urgency to cover herself. Her knees were weak, wobbly. How she could stand, much less walk across the room, she didn't know. But she had to make it across without falling flat on her face. She just needed to be alone for a moment. She knew Jason didn't understand her bizarre behavior. If he were to jump up and run after making love…? Making love… The phrase repeated its self in her mind…making love. She practically ran to the bathroom. Fumbling with the handle, she pushed her way in. Closing the door, she leaned 97

Jayelle Drewry heavily against it. *** "Annabel?" The quiet snap of the bathroom door was his only answer. Jason flopped back onto the bed. He folded and punched a pillow, then shoved it under his head. What the hell was all that about? His brow creased in confusion. One minute they were making love, the next she was running from the room without speaking to him. If he hadn't known better, known women, he would wonder about the sex. But he knew, knew she had had a good time. More than a good time. His cool, calm Annabel had come apart in his arms. Screaming, scratching, red hot, she had been everything he had dreamed. The passion between them was scorching in its intensity. He could tell she had never experienced that kind of passion before. He was fiercely proud that he was the one to show her how it could be between a man and a woman. Jason battled with himself. Part of him wanted to jump out of the bed and join her in the shower. There he would fuck her until she couldn't run. Until she couldn't move. Until she knew— knew—that she was his. But the calmer, more civilized side kept him in the bed. Annabel needed to sort through this herself. He could show her how it could be between them, he would gladly spend the rest of is life showing her how good it was, but he couldn't force her to accept it. Couldn't force her to accept him. *** Annabel stood in front of the bathroom mirror. She didn't recognize the woman in the reflection: wild red hair, lips and eyes swollen and sultry with passion. Her nipples were a rosy red, rather than their normal shell pink, and they ached. Patches of red, where Jason's beard had scraped her skin, could be seen on her neck, chest, stomach, and thighs. She looked, 98

Waking Annabel

looked...well, fucked. She felt well fucked. She ached in places she didn't know existed. Sighing, Annabel turned to test the heat of the shower. When she pulled the shower curtain back, steamed billowed out. Perfect. She stepped into the shower, and eased herself under the hot spray. As she stood under the heated water, thoughts and images raced through Annabel's mind. Jason had shown her a side of herself she hadn't known existed. A passionate, sexy side that Andrew had never touched. Crazy as it seemed, part of her felt guilty that she had so easily experienced with Jason what she had never felt with Andrew. Maybe a part of her hadn't wanted to give up control to Andrew. And that was what it was, a loss of control. Or, better yet, a mutual need to please each other by giving up control. There was no other way to describe it. She had trusted him completely, had let him do what he wanted, and it had felt wonderful. She had also taken control, had pushed him just as he had pushed her. Annabel washed herself, slowly, carefully. Though the hot water had done much to ease aching muscles she was still just a little sore. There was a slight sting between her legs. When she had washed everything, hair, too, she reluctantly stepped out of the shower. She had run out of the bedroom like a scared little girl. Now she had to go back in there. She wondered how to make her entrance far more gracious than her exit. Thirty minutes later, time was up. Annabel towel dried her hair, brushed her teeth, rubbed lotion over her body, and done her nightly facial routine. There was nothing left to do but go out there. Face the music. Face the man. She took a deep breath and looked in the mirror. Butt-naked, she was butt-naked. No way she could go out there like that. Naked in the heat of the moment 99

Jayelle Drewry was one thing. Walking nude across the room was something else entirely. She wasn't ready for that. She scooped up Jason's silk shirt and put it on. The tails trailed her thighs, stopping just above her knees. The cuffs fell past her hands, the shoulder seems stopping just before her elbow. Looking in the mirror, it became apparent just how much larger Jason was. He was a huge man. That made his passion and gentleness all the more special. Annabel held the collar up to her nose. She could smell his cologne, him. A knock at the door had Annabel jumping. "You okay in there?" Jason's voice was muffled. "Yeah." Annabel felt awkward. Didn't know what else to say. "Well, are you going to stay in there all night?" "No. No I'm not." Taking a deep breath, she opened the door. Jason stood there, one arm propped against the casing above his head. He had put on his boxers, but that was all. His hair was mussed. He was the sexiest thing Annabel had ever seen. She felt her stomach clinch. One side of Jason's lips kicked up in a lopsided grin. "Ready to go to bed?" *** He had a hard time giving her that small smile. All he really wanted to do was grab Annabel and carry her back to the bed. Once there he wanted to explore her all over again, and again and again. He wanted to drown in the scent of her, the feel of her. She was uneasy with what they had done earlier. Annabel had had sex, yes, of that Jason had no doubt. He doubted she had ever had many lovers. Probably that twit of a husband and maybe another, but not many and none that counted. Confident that he was the one to awaken Annabel to her sensual side, Jason was determined he would be the only one to know that part of 100

Waking Annabel

her as well. Annabel nodded, shut out the light, and stepped out of the bathroom. Taking her hand, Jason led her back to the bed. They settled in the middle of the bed, spoon fashion, with Jason behind her. His arm curled possessively around her waist. The silence was awkward. Neither knew what to say to ease the tension. Pushing her hair away, Jason kissed Annabel's neck. It was not sexual in nature. It was soft, comforting. He made no move to do anything else, but settled in more comfortably and pulled her closer to him. "Go to sleep, Annabel." His voice rumbled against her back. Jason made no more moves. His breath stirred the hair at the nape of her neck. His arm was a comforting anchor around her waist. Annabel gradually relaxed back against his chest. Soothed by Jason's warmth, she drifted off to sleep. Feeling Annabel relax into sleep, Jason let out a sigh of relief. Annabel was so skittish, so afraid of being hurt. He was feeling his way with her, not wanting to rush her, but desperate to have her. The last weeks had been hell for him, but a wonderful kind of hell. A hell consisting of wooing, romancing, and courting one of the most extraordinary women he had ever known. A hell built of light, gentle kisses, and polite small touches. He had played the gentleman to the point of madness. But the end was in sight. There was light at the end of the tunnel. Tonight had been everything he could ever imagine, the passion between them was magical. Now, he needed to close the deal, to convince her that this wasn't just a one-time deal. He needed to show Annabel that he, they, were worth risking her heart. *** Annabel awoke to the most incredible feeling. Jason was stretched out between her legs, gently lapping her cunt. Arching 101

Jayelle Drewry her back and stretching her legs, she curved up to meet his lips. It was a natural morning stretch that just happened to be the perfect move to press herself closer to those talented lips. Not opening her eyes, Annabel settled back onto the mattress, humming with appreciation for Jason's talent. A talent that included gentle laps from anus to clit, once there a light suction, and a slow thrust of the tongue into her sensitive hole. Jason cupped her hips and lightly circled her pelvic bone with his thumbs. He answered Annabel's hum with a hum of his own that vibrated against her clit. He was rewarded with a gasp, and sharp nails pulling his face closer to the pussy he was so skillfully eating. Thus spurred on, the next few minutes Jason patiently and ardently set about giving Annabel the best cunnilingus of her life. The orgasm started as a slow burn in her stomach, the fire stoked by the rhythmic stroke of his tongue. By the time he added a clit massage with the thrust of his tongue, it was a raging inferno. Legs clamped around his head, Annabel screamed out her first orgasm of the day. Annabel gradually came back to earth, her heart rate and breathing calmed. What a way to start a day. Slowly, she opened to meet wicked black eyes. She smiled. It was a wide natural smile, one filled with wonder and joy. An unguarded smile, Annabel was not yet awake enough to hide what she felt. "Good morning." Jason's voice was rough and scratchy. "Yes, it is a good morning." A flush was working its way up Annabel's chest. "Enjoyed that, did ya?" Jason was flat out grinning. Annabel's flush darkened and raced up to her hairline. Though she was flustered, she was not going to give into her shyness. She was going to meet him halfway. Show him she could handle this, handle him. "Yes I did. Very much." Annabel peeked at Jason through 102

Waking Annabel

her eyelashes and pursed her lips. She toyed with the hair on his chest. "Would you like?" Her shyness got her. She couldn't quite say what she was very willing to do. "Darlin', I would love to take you up on such a delightful offer." Jason captured her hand and brought it to his lips. "But not this morning." He moved off of her and sat up, preparing to get out of bed. Annabel looked at him in shock. She may have never given a blowjob before, but she knew it hadn't been that bad. She could still hear his groans. She could still taste his come. Jason stood and stretched his arms over his head, letting out a loud growl as he did so. Annabel sat up, pulling the sheet up to her chest. "Why not?" She couldn't stop the question from escaping. He chuckled and reached to haul her out of the bed. "Because, my tasty southern belle, we have too much to do today, and I don't want you sore." Pulling her up into his arms, he kissed her nose. "Really? And what you have got planned for today?" Outrage gave way to curiosity. Annabel relaxed back into his arms. Jason pulled her over to the window of their suite. He pulled back the draperies. "We are on the grounds of the largest privately owned house in the U.S., the Biltmore Estate. Located in some of the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Today is going to be a busy day." He spun her around and pushed Annabel toward the bathroom. "Woman, get ready. Today we explore Biltmore Estate and Asheville." "Great." Annabel skipped into the bathroom. Thirty minutes later they made their way down to the hotel restaurant. Over breakfast they made their plans. Biltmore Inn was located on the grounds of the estate. Tickets to the house 103

Jayelle Drewry were included in their weekend package. They decided to start there, hopeful they would beat the usual tourist crowd. Annabel, more so than Jason, was eager to see the house. They wanted the freedom to roam around and do what ever struck their fancy. The inn offered horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking tours. Biltmore Village was right outside the estate gates and offered a multitude of shops and restaurants. Additionally, downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway were but minutes away. They decided to let the day set its own pace, content in each other's company.

104

Waking Annabel

Eight

The day was fantastic, a dream come true. As with their other dates, Jason was an exceptional escort, a woman's ideal companion. Annabel fell in love with the house. She had spent hours touring the rooms, fascinated with the furniture and fabrics. She concluded that George Vanderbilt, the designer and original owner of the estate, had exquisite taste. They strolled through the rooms, holding hands, stealing a kiss every now and then when they happened across an empty corner. After lunch, Jason suggested a drive on the Parkway. Looking Glass Falls, a waterfall in a neighboring county, was reported to be a beautiful, must see. Since he had spent the morning letting her 'ooh' and 'aah' over a house, Annabel agreed. The drive over to the falls was slow and leisurely. Jason stopped several times to get out and enjoy the paved overlooks. It was late afternoon before Jason finally pulled up to the falls. Parking along the road, they held hands as they walked the short distance to the falls. A series of wooden stairs led to the base of the falls. People were busy coming and going, jostling for the best place to take a picture. Jason and Annabel simply dodged the busy tourists as they made their way down to the bottom. The water bounded down with an incredible force. From a hundred feet away, a fine mist floated on the air, covering them where they stood. Jason stood behind Annabel, arms loosely wrapped around her waist, chin resting on the top of her head. Annabel leaned back, resting her full weight against him, 105

Jayelle Drewry trusting in his ability not to let her stumble. "Jason, this is incredible. It's so beautiful. It's..." Annabel searched for a word. She shook her head. "I don't know. This whole weekend has been unbelievable." She didn't know what to say. Coming here with Jason had been a huge step for her. She had been so young, so inexperienced when she had met and married Andrew. His infidelities had hurt her, destroyed the budding confidence she had had in herself and men. Even before the divorce, she had begun to hide behind a mask, a polite facade constructed to hide the hurt and anger. Jason's patience and tenacity had slowly worn down her resistance. With him, Annabel had lowered her defenses and opened up. She was learning to trust herself, her emotions and judgment again. Jason turned her in his arms and looked down into Annabel's face. "Good." *** For once he couldn't think of anything charming to say. Words failed him. Jason used words to charm, to seduce. He never used words to express what he was feeling. Suddenly he was alarmed. Annabel was looking at him so earnestly, openly. It was what he had spent weeks trying to do, get Annabel to open up to him, trust him. Now he had what he wanted...Annabel, open, trusting him. But what came next? These weeks with Annabel had allowed Jason to be someone he was not. They had allowed him to be kind, considerate, someone his business opponents would not recognize. Now he was trapped. Trapped by new, foreign emotions and impulses. He wanted to love her, but he wasn't sure she would love the man he had hidden from her. He wanted to run not comfortable with who he was when he was with her. Not knowing what to say, Jason didn't say anything. Instead, placing a hand in the small of her back, he 106

Waking Annabel

directed Annabel back toward the stairs and car. The ride back to the inn was silent. Neither Jason nor Annabel was willing to share what was on their minds. The music was a soft jazz, wonderful for slow dancing. The night air was warm, but not humid or uncomfortable. Candles on the tables and subdued lighting added to the warmth and romance of the outside dining area. Conversation from surrounding tables was muted. Jason leaned back in his chair. The steak had been excellent, much like everything else he had experienced at the inn the weekend. He studied the woman across the table from him. She was turned in profile, her interest on the band playing. Candlelight flickered across her chest and lit up the hollows beneath her cheekbones. Her skin had a golden glow, her hair was dark auburn, no hint of fire exposed in the weak candlelight. Without a doubt, Annabel Sullivan was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Her beauty was as much inner as outer. Using charm, seduction he had pursued Annabel until he got her. Now he had her, but she had him too. But, when he let the mask drop, would she want what lay beneath? *** Annabel turned her head to study Jason. He had been so quiet tonight, so reserved, nothing like his charming self. She found him staring at her. His attention focused solely on her, and intensity in his expression she had never seen before. He looked hard, dominant. She wondered if this was the look he wore at the office. A sizzle of attraction zipped down her spine. As if sensing her interest in that side of him, Jason stood and walked over to her side. Without asking he took her hand and pulled Annabel from her seat. "Dance with me." It wasn't a request. He simply turned and led her to the dance floor. Bemused, Annabel followed. 107

Jayelle Drewry The music was slow and soulful, sultry. Jason drew Annabel firmly into his embrace, pelvis to pelvis, chest to chest. Hands slowly worked their way up and down her back. It was not a lewd embrace, but it was sexual. The air between them crackled with tension. Jason never took his eyes off her face. Annabel's eyes were trapped by the intensity in his, she couldn't look away. As they made their way around the floor, she could feel his erection growing and pushing against her abdomen. Leaning down, Jason whispered in her ear. "I want you." Annabel felt her heart race. Jason bit the lobe of her ear. "All of you. Any way and every way I can have you. Hard. Fast. Slow. Deep. From the back, beneath, and on top." Annabel shivered and clutched his shoulders in response. "I want to fuck you mindless. I want to go so deep inside you don't know where you begin and I end. I want you screaming and crying and begging for more. Then went you can't take anymore I want to give it to you again." Jason's voice was a low guttural growl. To punctuate his point he ground her hips into his. Annabel whimpered in response and tried to lean into him. Jason pulled back, not giving her the contact she wanted. Still staring into her eyes, he continued to lead her around the dance floor. "No. I control the pace tonight. Last night was for you. Tonight is for me." Jason spoke firmly. They stayed on the dance floor through two more slow songs. Jason kept her on the dance floor, feeding the fire of her arousal by brushing up against her, licking her neck, and blowing in her ear. He increased her anticipation by not taking her off the dance floor and upstairs. Annabel trembled with anticipation, eagerness, and 108

Waking Annabel

uncertainty. This was a new side to Jason. A side she had never glimpsed, but found extremely erotic. The thought of letting him have complete control, of simply letting go, was intriguing. Something she had never considered something she never would have done with Andrew. Annabel felt a warm gush between her legs. Her panties were wet; not damp, but wet. Her nipples were hard points against her silk blouse. The constant action of the having them brush up against Jason's chest was driving her crazy. She wanted a firmer contact, a stronger, more direct stimulation. "Jason." Annabel wouldn't voice what she wanted, wouldn't beg. Taking pity on her, he escorted her back to the table. Annabel's knees were wobbly, and she gratefully sat down in the chair he pulled out for her. Jason nodded to the waiter before he sat down across from her. "I want you to take your underwear off." He spoke calmly, as if he were requesting she pass the bread. "Excuse me." Annabel couldn't believe her ears. Jason looked at her with one brow cocked imperiously. "You heard me. Take your underwear off and give them to me." "You must be joking." Annabel's voice was incredulous. Jason shook his head. "No, I'm not. Take them off." Before she could respond, their waiter appeared. "Will there be anything else tonight?" Jason leaned back in his chair and studied Annabel for a moment; a slight smile curved his lips. "Nothing for the lady, I'll have a cognac and the check." Nodding, the waiter moved away. "I'm waiting." Jason's voice was still calm, but there was underlying steel in the tone. "You're serious." Annabel felt a thrill at the thought of being naughty. 109

Jayelle Drewry "Yes, I am." Annabel rose to comply amazed at her own brazenness. Jason stopped her. "No, sit down. Take them off here and pass them to me." "What?" Annabel let out a quiet gasp. "You're crazy! Everybody will see—" "No one will see. The tablecloth will prevent that. Now do it!" This time there was no mistaking the commanding tone in his voice. "Before the waiter returns with my drink." Annabel stared into his eyes. There was a hard command there. He really expected her to pull her underwear off in a room full of people. She squirmed at the thought, then flushed when she realized she was going to do it. "What do I get out of it?" Annabel asked coyly. Jason shrugged. "Nothing," he waited a heartbeat, "for now." Narrowing her eyes at the challenge, Annabel began a subtle shifting of her hips and legs. Slowly, she worked her panties over her hips and thighs. Jason's eyes flared with interest when he noted her movements. Moments later, she gently lifted a foot onto his lap. Her underwear was hooked on the tip of her shoe. With her panties no longer there she felt the cushion beneath her grow wet with her arousal. She was going to leave a wet spot. "Thank you." Jason plucked the prize from the tip of her shoe and stuffed it into his pants pocket. The waiter appeared with his drink and the check before he could say or do anything else. "I'll take that when you're ready, sir." Jason nodded and the waiter left. "Now what?" Annabel whispered, excited. Jason sipped his drink and studied her over the rim of his 110

Waking Annabel

glass. "Play with yourself." Again his voice was matter-of-fact. His face was bland. Annabel's mouth fell open. She was speechless. Then she regained her composure and closed her mouth with a snap. "You've got to be joking. That's going just a little too far." Masturbation, it was something everyone did, but usually in privacy, not out in public. Jason set his drink down, and leaned over. "Come on, Annabel. Let's see you take a dare, lose that polite goody two shoes attitude of yours. Why don't you rub that sweet little clit of yours while I watch? Nobody'll know but you and me. Just think, all these polite folks sitting down, enjoying their expensive dinner, and you over there diddling yourself with no one the wiser." Against her will, Annabel let the thought of doing it enter her mind, and felt a hot gush explode from her pussy. There was going to be a really, really big wet spot on her chair. "Annabel, don't chicken out now. Just slip that delicate little hand down there and go to work." She still hesitated, even though she knew she was going to do it. She, prim and proper Annabel Sullivan, was going to masturbate in front of an entire restaurant full of people. Annabel placed both hands in her lap and slowly, tentatively, parted her thighs. Her movements were small, minimal at first, a slow glide of her fingers up and down her wet slit. But it didn't take her long to get into it. The fingers of one hand pinched and rubbed her clit while two fingers of the other thrust in and out of her pussy. She was going wetter by the minute. She could hear the faint squishing sound of her fingers thrusting in and out. She bit her lip. Her clit throbbed in time with her accelerated heartbeat. She was there, there, just one 111

Jayelle Drewry more flick and she was going to go off like a rocket. "Let's go." Jason put his drink down and stood. Reaching for his wallet, he removed several bills and placed them with the check. Annabel's fingers had stopped when he stood. She stared up at him incredulously. "What?" Jason walked around the table and stood by her chair. "Let's go." Annabel was on the edge. Anger, frustration, and confusion marred her face. "Jason..." He didn't let her continue, he simply pulled out her chair and waited for her to rise. Annabel had no choice, but to shut up and quickly push her skirt down over her thighs. She shot him an evil look, and sailed past him out of the restaurant. Jason caught her at the elevators. She was in a high temper by the time he caught her. Embarrassment and frustration were a powerful combination. She was a bomb, ready to go off. Emotionally, sexually, at this point it didn't matter, either way it would be a release. Whirling at his approach, it appeared she was willing to take the emotional release. "Don't get your panties in a wad." Jason fired the first shot. "Oh that's right, I have your panties." He couldn't stop a chuckle from escaping. "Laugh, you sick bastard. You..." Annabel's language was slipping. She had let go with him. Trusted him. Tears of anger and sexual frustration swam close to the surface. The ding of the elevator doors saved her from total humiliation. The humiliation of attacking him; Annabel wasn't sure if she wanted to kill him or fuck him. In honesty, probably both. Turning, she strode into the car, and whirled to hit the close door button. Jason stepped in before the doors could slide shut. "Sometimes, denial can…" Jason took pity on her. 112

Waking Annabel

Annabel whirled. "I don't want to hear this. Just shut up." The ride up to the room was silent, but not a comfortable silence. Annabel kept her back to Jason, refusing to look or speak. Annabel stormed out the minute doors slid open. Without looking back, she headed for the room, intent on locking him out. He caught the door just as she was about to slam it shut. Whirling from the door, Annabel headed for the bedroom. Bastard. She never made it. Jason caught her upper arm and spun her around. Annabel was ready for a fight, the release it would bring. Mouth open, she was ready for a tirade. She never got her chance. Jason's mouth slammed down on hers. No gentle persuasion or exploration. Just raw, unbridled lust. Annabel jerked her head back and glared at him. "You bastard." She was practically hissing, fighting him and her desire for him, her need to climax. Annabel had no understanding of how frustration could heighten desire, intensify the feelings. Jason knew it. "Let me go. If you think for one minute..." Jason laughed. "I don't have to think, I know. I know that hot little bud between your legs is on fire. I know you want to go finish what I wouldn't let you finish downstairs." Tangling his hands in her hair, Jason pulled her mouth back to his and the battle was on. Lips and tongues dueled. There was nothing tender in the exchange, only heat and need. She fought him. Wholeheartedly. She raised a knee to his groin, sensing her intention he dodged the movement. Backing her up against the wall, he lifted her and thrust a heavy thigh between her legs. "Ah, Annie, I think you're losing control. Come, baby, give all that fire an outlet. Let me see you burn." Letting go of her waist, he pulled up her skirt. Her pussy 113

Jayelle Drewry still bare and sensitive, he rocked her against his leg. Electricity shot up through her, lightning flashed in her stomach. That was what she needed, what she craved. Relief, for the fire raging deep in her belly. Annabel tore at his shirt, buttons scattered everywhere. Humping his leg with bare, soaked pussy, she ran desperate hands up his chest, and threaded her fingers in his hair. Pulling his head down, she aggressively ate at his mouth. He pushed her sweater and bra up her chest, not taking the time to remove either. Cupping both breasts in his palms, he rotated his thumbs around and around the hardened peaks of her nipples. Then, he bent down and began to lick and suckle, strongly, a bit roughly. Annabel let out a high pitched keening noise. The simultaneous stimulation of her pussy and breasts pushed her over the edge. Her climax hit her with the force of a runaway train, and that was exactly what their passion was. A runaway train neither could control. Clamping her legs tightly around his leg, she rode out her climax, ready for another, not wanting to stop the feelings coursing through her body. Not satisfied with the emptiness of an orgasm with him not buried deep inside her. "Damn you, Jason O'Brien. Fuck me." Annabel's control was gone. Their hands bumped and fumbled over the top of each other in their mutual urgency to free his cock from his pants. He barely had time to unsnap the button before she had the zipper down and his dick in her hands. They both groaned. Without further ado, Jason pushed his way between her legs and nudged his knob against her wet, hungry hole. Then without waiting, he pushed his way in, all of him, every hot, hard, inch of him. He buried himself balls-deep. Once inside he paused for a moment to catch his breath. Annabel clinched her inner muscles around him, milking 114

Waking Annabel

him, urging him on. Jason pulled back, almost completely out of her, then slammed back in to the hilt. Annabel let out a gasp of pleasured pain. She ground her pussy up against him in response. That was the signal Jason needed, he began to thrust quickly, deeply, his hips like a jackhammer. Neither lasted long. A few strokes later, Annabel was screaming hoarsely, nails digging into his shoulders. The rush was more than she could stand, lights flashed before her eyes, and there was a roaring in her ears. Her whole body stiffened with the force of her climax. Jason followed her right over the edge. Grasping her hips, he slammed home once, twice, and then stiffening, holding himself inside her, his body jerked again and again with each eruption of sperm. Panting heavily, neither spoke. Even if they had been able to catch their breath, they didn't know what to say. So they leaned against each other, stunned, speechless. When Jason could move, began to walk toward the bed, still lodged inside Annabel. Annabel rested her head on his shoulder and let him carry her. The ferocity of their lovemaking had left her incapable of thought. She just wanted to sleep. Jason collapsed on the bed, turning so Annabel rested on top of him. Exhausted, replete, sleep was immediate for both of them.

115

Jayelle Drewry

Nine

Annabel woke slowly. As she stretched, she became aware of heaviness across her thighs. She couldn't stretch out the way she wanted. Frowning, Annabel opened her eyes. There was Jason, sitting on top of her; good reason she couldn't move her legs. "Hello." He made no move to get off, and he was too big for her to throw off. Glancing around the room, she realized it was still dark. "What are you doing?" "Waiting for you to wake up." "I'm awake." Jason leaned over and kissed her nose. "No, you're not, but I'm going to wake you. Show you a side of yourself that you never knew existed." Annabel shifted, uneasy at the tone of his voice. "Wake me how? What do you mean?" Jason sat up, still on her legs, and examined her face. "When I first saw you, I had a woody you wouldn't believe. You were the picture of cool, southern womanhood. Calm. Polite, oh so self-controlled. But I sensed a fire, carefully banked, inside you just waiting to be ignited." Annabel began to feel nervous and unsure. All too clearly she could hear Andrew telling her the only thing hot about her was her hair. "Get off me." "No." 116

Waking Annabel

Annabel tried to buck him off, but Jason was too heavy. The hands she brought up to push him off were quickly captured in one of his big hands and held firmly above her head. "For the last few weeks, I've been gentle. I've been polite. I've played it your way. But now, now we're gonna play it my way." Annabel felt her heart kick in to overdrive. It was beating so hard her breasts jiggled. Jason noted the slight movement and smiled. Leaning across her, Jason grabbed a silk scarf off of the nightstand. Seeing the scarf, Annabel began to struggle in earnest. She actually tried to bite him. It was not a silent struggle, Annabel growling in her effort to be free. But, he had her hands tied above her head in seconds. Then, using a second scarf he blindfolded her and sat back to survey his handy work. "Now, here's the rules. I do what I want, and you can't make a sound. Not a moan, not a groan, nothing. You can't move, you can't speak, you can't see, until I decide you can. If you break any, any of the rules, you get punished." His voice was more a promise than a threat. She should have been scared. Should have been being the key phrase. Instead she was growing wetter by the minute. Annabel could feel the moisture collecting between her legs, could feel it running between the crack of her ass cheeks. But she wasn't about to just give up control. "You can take your rules and stick 'em up your..." Jason's warm, rough palm covered her mouth. "Don't make me gag you." Outraged, she gasped, "You wouldn't dare!" "Try me. I have a lot of plans for that pretty mouth of yours. I don't want to gag it, but I will. Do you understand?" His voice brooked no argument. It was firm, demanded compliance. Annabel hesitated. She could feel excitement whipping 117

Jayelle Drewry through her, but fear, too. Fear of the unknown, fear of giving her complete trust in another. He was asking her permission. By saying she understood, she was agreeing to play this game of his. Jason casually grasped her nipples between his forefingers and thumbs. He gave both a firm squeeze. "Answer me." Lightning shot through Annabel, arching her back, causing her to moan in pained pleasure. "Yes." She gave him the answer he wanted, she wanted. "Good." Jason let go of her nipples and sat back. "Just pretend you are Sleeping Beauty. You're in a deep sleep, you can't move, you can't speak, you can't see. You're waiting on that special kiss to wake you. But until then, you can feel. I want you to feel everything I do. I want you to anticipate my next move." He got up from the bed. Annabel felt the coolness of his missing form. Blindfolded, she was suddenly aware of everything. Her ears strained to pick the noise of his movements; her skin was sensitive to the slightest brush of air. Her nipples hardened and elongated in nervous excitement. She listened, but could hear nothing but her own panting. Where was he? What was he doing? An ice cold drop of water fell on her lips, startling her. A piece of ice was rubbed on her lips. It trailed down her neck to her breast, leaving an icy trail. Her nipples became impossibly harder. The ice traced circles around and around her nipples. No other touch, just the ice. Then his mouth was there, the heat blistering. The sensation was like nothing Annabel had ever felt. She thought she would come out of her skin. She bit her lip to keep from moaning. "Good girl. That's right, no sound until I tell you." He rewarded her for her obedience by sucking her nipples, warming them with his mouth and tongue. 118

Waking Annabel

Lifting his head, Jason put the ice in his mouth and started suckling again. The combination of fire and ice was tremendous. Annabel fought her bindings, wanting to clasp his head to her. Chuckling, Jason kissed his way down her chest and stomach. Stopping at her belly button, his tongue light stroked in and out. Annabel licked her lips. The blindfold heightened all of her senses. She had no idea her stomach, her navel, had so many nerve endings. Down, down he went, skipping the area between her legs. Scattering kisses across her thighs, and the back of her knees. Annabel held her breath, hoping…she wasn't sure. She wanted something. She couldn't think. Jason disappeared. She was alone, aching. Ice rattled against a glass. She felt herself tense. Turning her head, a useless gesture because of the blindfold, Annabel searched for a hint of him. Nothing. Waiting. Waiting. Where was he? Was he looking at her? Completely naked. She felt completely naked. With the lack of sight and lack of control, he had stripped her. Stripped her of more than clothes. Annabel swallowed a whimper. Then his hands were there. So was the ice. He was pushing the ice into her heated core. Unable to help the movement, Annabel thrust against him, against his hand, trying to force his fingers inside of her rather than the ice. Jason chuckled. Using two fingers he gave her clit a sharp tug. "No moving." He settled between her legs. The ice he had inserted was melting quickly, a river of passion, running from her lips. He bent his head and began to sip. Lapping and slurping at her. His big, worked roughed hands cupped her butt, pulling her up to meet him. His body lubricant had dripped to the crack of her ass. He ran his fingers down that dark crevice, stopping at her anus. A light probe had Annabel fighting him. Fighting her binds. She 119

Jayelle Drewry grasped the scarf in her hands and pulled. "Jason!" He raised his head, and lightly slapped her ass. Stung, but wasn't really painful. "No moving, no talking." His voice was sharp. He dipped his finger into her pussy, another followed it. Slowly he thrust in and out of her. Annabel rocked her hips in time with the thrusting fingers. So good. It felt so good. "Like that, do ya? I'm gonna punish you for moving." Jason's voice was husky. Annabel tossed her head, hair scattering across the pillow like wild fire. "I don't care. I thought ice was supposed to cool you down. I'm burning up." "Not yet, but you will be." Jason's voice was enigmatic. Two fingers continued to plunge into her pussy, while his other hand once again began to explore the crevice between her buttocks. Annabel stiffened, her ass tightened, as if to block him from her anus. Instead, the action pushed his fingers directly up against her rosette. The thick cream from her cunt had leaked down and coated her crack. Jason used that natural lube to start a gentle probing of the tight hole. Annabel squirmed at the unusual stimulation. He worked one finger in to the knuckle, and slowly began penetrating in and out. In and out. Annabel clinched her buttocks, almost as if to force him out, instead his finger sank home. She sobbed at the sensation. Jason bent down and took her clit into his mouth. Sucking her clit, he set up a rhythmic thrust into her ass. Annabel was quickly pushed passed thought, she thrust her ass back to meet his finger, then pushed forward to meet his tongue. Annabel forgot all about the rules. All she knew was there was a fire in her ass, her pussy, that Jason had to put out. She was going to lose her mind. But every time she was at the edge, ready to 120

Waking Annabel

come, Jason would slow down, ease her away from the summit. Then, she did something she had never done before, she begged. "Please, Jason, I can't take it." She didn't recognize the guttural rawness of her own voice. "Please." The pitch in her voice went up when he hit a particularly sensitive spot. Instead he removed his finger from her ass all together. "No!" "Want more, Annie?" His voice came to her out of the darkness. "Yes." She was desperate. He had stopped stimulating her completely. This was worse than before. She was aroused to a feverish pitch and unable to move. She couldn't satisfy the ache and he had stopped. "What do you want? I should stop and leave you here. I told you no talking and no moving, and you've done both." "Jason O'Brien, I am warning you." Annabel stopped there. There was nothing she could do, she was tied, and he was free. Threats would not get her want she wanted. "Oh, Annie, don't warn me." He was laughing at her. "I've got what you want, what you need." He reached out and flicked her clit. It hurt, it felt good. "Annie." Suddenly his voice was deeper, darker. "Have you ever been fucked in the ass?" Annabel shifted uncomfortably, uncertain. She had enjoyed the penetration of one finger, but his cock was much larger, longer, thicker. Jason thrust two fingers in her pussy and scraped them along the wall of her pubic bone. She clamped down, trying to keep him in. Quickly he brought her back to peak and stopped. "Have you?" His voice was relentless. "No." Annabel could feel a flush mounting her face. Embarrassment and desire mingled. 121

Jayelle Drewry "I'm going to." Jason didn't ask. It was a statement. Annabel tensed. Jason laughed quietly richly, darkly. "Remember how my finger felt? So hot, tight, forbidden. When I push into you it'll be like nothing you've ever experienced, with just a little pain. A little pain to let you know just how good it feels. You'll be so tight. You'll squeeze my cock, it'll feel like hot wet silk in there." She felt him move away from her, heard the nightstand drawer open and close. She jerked when his fingers touched her. Lubrication. He put it on his fingers and spread it around her anus, inside her. Carefully he worked two fingers inside her. Annabel shifted her hips at the pinch. He continued his slow and careful insertion, and then he pulled out and began again. Gradually Annabel relaxed and when she did, he slipped in further. "Annie, I'm going to release your hands. When I do I want you to turn around, and kneel with your ass in the air." Jason's tone allowed for no argument. He was in charge of her pleasure and his. The two were combined now, an entwined knot of lust. Jason released her hands, and Annabel didn't even think about disobeying. She immediately flipped over, and stuck her ass in the air, elbows braced to support her upper body. He ran a gentle hand down her spine. Then, placing his hands on her cheeks, he parted them. His knob pressed against her opening. She flinched at the contact but didn't pull away. He rubbed his slick head against the lubrication at the opening of her anus. He pushed slightly, and pulled back. He did this repeatedly, to relax her sphincter muscle. Annabel trembled with excitement, nerves. She was about to engage in a potentially painful act, and yet she couldn't wait. She wanted to ram back against him and impale herself. She wanted to pull away in fear. Instead she bit her lips and did 122

Waking Annabel

nothing. Then he was in, just like that, he pushed the broad tip of his penis in. She felt the stretching, but no true pain. Cupping both cheeks, he pulled her apart and burrowed a little deeper. Annabel squirmed, the threat of pain had just become real. "Shhh. Shh. We've got all night. You'll take me. All of me. And love it." He kept his thrust shallow and unhurried. She was new to this and the first time could be painful if the man didn't know what he was doing. At a leisurely pace, he worked his length into her. Minutes later he was seated to the hilt. Annabel moaned. It hurt. It felt good. She didn't want him to stop. Rotating her hips, she was anxious for something. Hungering for something. "What is baby? Are you ready for me? Are you ready to fuck?" Annabel couldn't speak. She thrust her hips back as her answer. Grasping her hips, he began push into her. Not as hard, but quicker than before. The feelings sweeping through Annabel were devastating. Sobbing, she forced him to quicken the pace by thrusting back against him. No matter how hard she thrust, she couldn't push herself over the cliff. Reaching around, Jason rubbed her clit in time with his thrusts. It quickly became too much for Annabel. Her arms collapsed and all she could do was lay there, ass in the air, face against the mattress as he pounded into her. When he jammed two fingers into her pussy, she stiffened, coming on a long rush. Her vision went black, lights flashing behind her eyes. Feeling the walls of her rectum lock down in climax, Jason picked up his pacing, slamming repeatedly into her ass. Moments later, he shot his come deeper into her bowels. He knelt above her, froze as his orgasm ripped through him. 123

Jayelle Drewry "I love you." The confession was torn from his throat. Annabel was motionless below him. Carefully, he pulled out of her. Annabel moaned but didn't open her eyes. The blindfold still covered her eyes. He removed the scarf and fell into an exhausted heap beside her. Pulling her into his arms, he was asleep in seconds.

124

Waking Annabel

Ten

Annabel moaned in her sleep, swimming toward consciousness. Stretching, she moaned again, aching in places she didn't think could ache. Then the memory of last night surfaced and her eyes popped open. She was alone. Sitting up, she looked around the room, then settled back down when she heard the shower running. She was thankful she had awakened alone this morning. She needed to think. Needed to come to terms with what happened last night. Last night had revealed a side of Annabel she had never known existed. A wild, animalistic side, that both frightened and thrilled her. She had never known passion like that in her life. It made a mockery out of everything she had felt with Andrew. Her need for Jason had been out of control, and that was what terrified her. The lack of control. All her life, Annabel had been in someone else's control. First her parents, then Andrew. The only control she had ever had was control over her body, her emotions. And she had lost that last night. In one weekend, Jason had easily stripped it from her. Annabel felt fear well up inside her. Fear of the unknown. Fear of trusting someone enough to let go of control. For a moment she wanted to get up and run. She wanted to pack her bags and leave before Jason came out of the bathroom. Her body actually tensed with the urge to jump out of the bed. Throwing the covers back, Annabel got out of bed. Taking a deep breath, she calmed herself. She was not going to run. She 125

Jayelle Drewry was not going to let fear control her. Stiff muscles protested, but she forced them into action anyway. Putting on Jason's shirt for cover, Annabel walked over to look out the window. For a while she did nothing but stare in to space, lost in a maze of thoughts and memories. From their room, there was a beautiful view of the Biltmore House and the Smoky Mountains. She studied the house. It was a masterpiece. Incredibly beautiful, a true work of art. Then she began to see the scenery around the house. She marveled at the wonder and power of nature. So wild. So strong and free. No one could control the force of nature. Maybe that was what made it so beautiful, so spectacular, the inability to control it. Harness it? Yes. Enhance it? Yes. Destroy it? For a time. But nature would recover. With time, all things did. Control it? Never. There lay George Vanderbilt's genius. His ability to make something incredibly beautiful and yet respect the nature around him. Control. Beautiful, sweet control. She wanted it, feared losing it. Annabel started thinking about her marriage to Andrew. This time she looked at it with different eyes, and didn't like want she saw. After all, it takes two to make or break a marriage. She acknowledged that she had a part in her failed marriage. Then, she made peace with herself. *** Jason cut off the water, and stepped out of the shower. He stood still for a moment, listening. He couldn't hear any movement in the next room. Annabel must still be asleep. He was relieved; he wanted to be there when she woke up. They needed to talk about last night, about them, if there was even going to be a 'them.' He was afraid that if she woke up without him there, she would jump to all kinds of conclusions, the wrong conclusions. Wrapping a towel around his waist, Jason decided to drip 126

Waking Annabel

dry as he shaved. If things went as he hoped, both he and Annabel would appreciate the gesture. Shaving was not something a man could really rush. If he did he risked razor burn or bleeding to death. Jason didn't care for either option, so he forced himself to go slow. He ran the water only when rinsing the blade. It left a mess in the sink, but that way he could hear Annabel if she awakened. Long minutes later, Jason dried his face, rinsed the mess out of the sink, and tossed the towel over the shower curtain. Then he opened the bathroom door and found the bed empty. Fuck! She must have left when he was in the shower. Damn. Damn and double damn. He hurriedly left the bathroom to dress and go after her. Then he froze. She was at the window, looking out, lost in thought. Staring at her profile, he was again reminded of a cameo. So cool, so perfect. She didn't turn to look at him, and he knew she must have heard the bathroom door open. What was she thinking? Doubts plagued him. Had he pushed her too hard last night? Had he hurt her? Maybe she wasn't ready for that part of him. Would she ever be ready for that part of him? Maybe he had played the beta male too well. What if she never accepted him any other way? No! That was not an option. She had to accept him. He would find a meeting ground. "Good morning." Annabel licked her lips nervously. Jason wanted to rush over to her and kiss her, but he didn't move from the doorway. She looked like she would run if he made any unexpected movements. "Good morning." There was an awkward silence, neither of them saying anything. Walking over to the bed, Annabel sat down. "I've been thinking about us, about last night. About the past, my divorce." 127

Jayelle Drewry Jason remained silent. After a moment Annabel continued. "I was standing there, taking in the view, thoughts racing in my head, and suddenly things became so clear. I stood there, staring at the house and the mountains and everything just clicked." Another silence fell between them. "Last night. Last night was...the most incredible experience of my life, and it scared the hell out of me." "Oh, Annie..." "No, let me finish." Annabel paused again, but Jason didn't try to say anything. He could see she was collecting her thoughts. "Growing up...I had one of the calmest, least exciting childhoods imaginable. My parents loved me—love me—and I love them. But, self-control was important. I never saw my parents argue, never. So I assumed that was the way all marriages worked. Then I married Andrew, and I tried to reproduce what my parents had. Our marriage was in trouble from the beginning. His cheating and my coolness..." Annabel shook her head. "I'm not excusing Andrew's infidelities, but I'm admitting I wasn't the warmest of people to live with, and the more he pushed the colder I got. Somehow I got passion confused with a lack of control." Nervous, Annabel stood up and walked across the room to look out the window. "When I moved to Atlanta, I started a new life for myself and I am proud of what I've accomplished. But I was starting to feel like something was missing. I would watch couples out together, and I wanted what they had. But I was still running scared." She turned to face him. "Then you showed up, a sweet talking charmer. Even though I wouldn't admit it then I'll tell you now, I ran from you because you threatened my self-control. You made feel things 128

Waking Annabel

and want things..." Her voice trailed into nothing. Jason had been silent, knowing she needed to share what was on her mind. But now he could stand it no longer. "And I wouldn't leave you alone." Annabel turned and smiled and at him. "No, you wouldn't. You had me so confused. I didn't know if I was coming or going." Jason grinned. "I'd much rather have you coming than going." He chuckled at her flush. The mood and tension in the room lightened. It was as if both of them realized some unseen wall was gone. "Come here." Annabel hesitated. "I won't touch. But, there are some things I need to say." Annabel walked over to stand in front of him. "Last night…" He took a deep breath. "Started out as an experiment in giving up self-control. It was about letting go. I was pushing you. Pushing myself." Annabel snorted. "Did you get what you wanted?" Jason nodded in agreement. "Yes I did. I didn't need to use charm or seduction last night. I didn't need to convince you to make love. I wanted to know that you could desire me. Me. Just as I am. Because sometimes I'm going to be bossy, and demanding." "Really?" Annabel teased. "Yes. Really." His voice was dry. "So it was a test. Did I pass the test?" "Damn straight. You were a wild cat. More than capable of taking anything I could dish out." Annabel shot him a look. "I was a little wild, wasn't I?" Jason grinned. "Yeah, you knocked my socks off." The smile then fell from his face. "Last night I learned something about the giving and taking required in a relationship. You 129

Jayelle Drewry weren't the only one losing control. At some point I stopped thinking about how far I could push you. Suddenly, for the first time in my life I was just feeling. I let my emotions take the lead. What started out as a lesson in control ended as something else entirely." Annabel took a step closer to him. She scraped a nail across one of his flat, brown nipples. "I'll say. Last night you showed me a side of myself I didn't know existed." Jason caught her hand. "No fair. If I can't touch, you can't either." Annabel smiled, then turned her hand in his so they were holding hands. "A daring, wild, sexy side I want to explore." Annabel stood on tiptoes and kissed him on the chin. "With you. Seems you are capable of pushing me past any inhibition I might have." Jason wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her tightly to his chest. He could feel her nipples pebbled against his chest. He buried his face in her hair, closing his eyes in thankfulness. He never dreamed it would be this easy. That she would be so willing to love him. Then he frowned, she had said she wanted him, but not that she loved him. Maybe not that easy. He felt his determination harden. She would. She would love him. He nibbled on her neck. Tilting her head, she gave him better access. He bit her ear then blew on it. She shuddered in response. Then she pushed against his chest to free herself. Jason let her go, surprised. "I need a shower. I'm sticky, stinky, and gross." She pushed past him into the bathroom. Bending over to turn on the shower, she gave him a view that almost stopped his heart. Straightening, she pulled off his shirt and let it drop to her feet as she looked at him over her shoulder. She grinned at the tent forming in front of the towel wrapped around his waist. 130

Waking Annabel

"See something you're interested in?" Her eyes were devilish. This was the woman Jason had waited to see. The warm, sexy woman, under that cool exterior. The woman hid from everyone else. She was like a sleeping volcano, cool and beautiful while lying dormant, but fiery and explosive when awakened. "Too bad you didn't wake me before you took your shower. I would say you snooze you lose, but you weren't snoozing." Annabel stepped into the shower and pulled the curtain closed. Jason could hear her chuckling. Dropping the towel, Jason jerked the shower curtain back. "Move over." Without giving her time to respond he stepped into the shower and backed her up against the tiled wall. Annabel yelped at the coolness of the tile. Jason covered her lips with his. Moaning into each other's mouth, they devoured one another. Picking her up and guiding her legs around his waist, Jason leaned into her, pressing her against the wall. Grabbing a handful of wet hair, he pulled her head back until his was looking down into Annabel's eyes. Those glowing green eyes, eyes he could drown in. "Give me the chance and I'll spend the rest of my life waking you up, turning you on, and fucking you senseless." It wasn't a marriage proposal, not yet. What it was, was a declaration of intent. Annabel Sullivan was going to be his. She tried to lean forward and kiss him, but Jason didn't let go of her hair. What?" She frowned up at him. Heart beating double time, his face remained serious. "Don't you want me?" She pouted. She reached down and grasped his cock. "Yeah, you want me." She stroked his length a couple of times. 131

Jayelle Drewry "Want me to kiss it instead? Poor thing. He hasn't had a good morning kiss. Bet he's feeling left out." Jason was not about to turn down oral sex. He let go of Annabel's hair. She slid down his body, kissing and nibbling on the way down. Jason leaned forward, palms pressed to the tile. Looking down, he watched Annabel. Wet hair plastered to her head, eyes closed, she was nuzzling his balls. He felt his gut clinch, it was the most erotic and beautiful sight he had ever seen. Annabel on her knees, pleasuring him. Starting at the base, she licked her way to the top, then began the leisurely journey back down again. She spent minutes thoroughly inspecting his cock from top to bottom. She teased the slit at the top, she licked and tickled her way around the ridge of the knob. She suckled the top like a lollipop. Working her way back down, she suckled his balls. One at a time, then both, rolling them with her tongue. Jason buried his hands in her hair and forced her to look up at him. His penis came out of her mouth with a loud pop. "I want you. I want to come inside you." Jason's voice was guttural, his eyes black and shiny with desire. Annabel kissed her way back up his body, then lifted one leg to wrap it around his waist. "Then do it now. I want to feel you in me now." Jason lifted her and she wrapped both legs around his waist. He rammed home, the force of his thrust slamming her up against the wall. Grasping her by the butt cheeks, Jason powered into her. The thrust was fast and powerful, he knew he wouldn't last long. He could already feel his release building, aching for release and wasn't about to leave Annabel behind. Slipping one hand between her legs, he felt where they were connected, felt how her body stretched to accommodate him. Gathering the moisture leaking from her, he lubricated his fingers. Then, 132

Waking Annabel

working his way back up to her anus, he thrust one finger in. Annabel screamed at the double penetration. She arched her back, which caused Jason to go even deeper in her, to her womb. When Jason began to thrust his finger in time with his cock, Annabel lost it. Screaming, she clamped down tightly, froze in a painful orgasm. Then she bit him. The bite set off Jason's climax. Ramming into her one, two more times, he buried himself to the hilt. It felt like his dick exploded. For a moment everything went black and there was a ringing in his ears. He collapsed against her, mashing Annabel against the shower wall. Annabel ran a gentle hand down his back, soothing him. "You know, I thought I heard you say something last night." "Yeah?" Jason's voice was serious. His heart began to pound in triple time. "Yeah. But I can't really remember…" She trailed off. "Oh well, it'll come to me." Jason growled, tired of her teasing. Using a handful of hair, he pulled her head back to look into her eyes. "You little witch. You know exactly what I said." "Yeah, but how do I know it wasn't something you said in the heat of the moment?" Annabel pouted. Jason's hand tightened in her hair. "It wasn't." Annabel waited. "Fine, I'll say it first. I love you. Are you happy now?" It was not the most romantic of declarations. "Yes." Jason growled in impatience. Planting his feet, he decided to stay there until she told him she loved him. The shower was beginning to cool but he didn't care if they both got frostbite. Seeing his stubborn expression, Annabel laughed. "Poor baby. Don't you like being pushed?" 133

Jayelle Drewry Jason slapped her ass sharply. Annabel jumped at the sting and quickly acquiesced. "I love you, Jason O'Brien." Jason grunted, "Good." Then he slapped her ass again. This time she yelped in protest. "Hey!" Eyes narrowed, he studied her outraged face. "Last night, I got so carried away you didn't get your punishment." Annabel's faced perked up in interest. "Oh, daddy, don't hurt me." Jason chuckled evilly. "Baby, when I finish with you you'll understand what 'hurts so good' means." "Promise?" "Oh, yeah. You'll beg for it." Later, she did.

134

Waking Annabel

About the Author

Jayelle grew up on the coast of North Carolina and lived there until, at the ripe old age of 22, she met her husband. He was from the western part of the state and it was far easier for her to move to the mountains than to remove him from them. So she now lives deep in the mountains of North Carolina with her husband and two sons. Jayelle developed a love of reading while in elementary school and by the time she reached high school she was an avid romance fan and has been ever since. Her love of reading, not just romance, led her to become a middle school Language Arts teacher. Over the years, family and friends continually asked Jayelle when she planned on becoming a writer. Finally her husband and mother bought a laptop computer and ordered her to write. It's challenging to balance the roles of mother, wife, teacher, and writer, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

135