What He Wants

WHAT HE WANTS by

C’ann Inman

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Published by WHISKEY CREEK PRESS Whiskey Creek Press PO Box 51052 Casper, WY 82605-1052 www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright  2006 by C’ann Inman Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. 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. ISBN 1-59374-623-7

Credits Cover Artist: Jinger Heaston Editor: Lynn Schuster Printed in the United States of America

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ABOUT WHAT HE WANTS “This book is awesome and I couldn't put it down until I finished it. Sheridan is the ultimate alpha male and in complete control. His sensual attitude will have reader's running for the ice and turning on the fans. The love scenes are very intense and passionate between this couple and the sparks are non-stop. The plot is full of twists and turns and keeps you guessing where it will all lead. C'ann Inman has penned a wonderful book full of romance and adventure.” Angel, The Romance Studio “I enjoyed this book a lot. Diana is a wonderful character put in an untenable situation. The supporting characters are particularly well written and add a lot to the story. It is fun to see them either helping or hindering the relationship between the two main characters.” Maura Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance “Ms. Inman’s What He Wants is an engrossing tale of lust, love and growth. Diana is a character that develops and matures throughout the story. I enjoyed her thoughts on the other applicants when she was applying for the job. She had a confidence in herself that was not swayed by the beautiful young women surrounding her. “What He Wants is a story that will engage you; whether you’re gnashing your teeth or fanning your face, you won’t be able to put this one down.” Trang Fallen Angel Reviews

Dedication To my love: You’re what I want.

Chapter 1 Diana Stafford paused in the paved driveway after she stepped out of her small white car. The house—no mansion—was amazing. Huge. Stately. There were white columns rising from porch to roof. Wraparound porches on the first and second floor. A soft breeze blew, and she could smell the magnolias in the air. She tilted her head back, shielded her eyes, and took in the whole picture. She would be lucky if they hired her. She accepted that. Diana was no fool. After her last company downsized and released her from her secretarial duties, she brushed up on her childcare license and looked for work as a nanny/housekeeper. The ad in the paper caught her eye. The household needed a woman who would watch children and do a bit of housekeeping. The salary wasn’t listed, but she could ask about that during the interview. She was growing more nervous by the second. Her nest egg was running out at a rapid rate of speed, and she needed work. Diana calmed herself and walked sedately up the stone steps and rang the doorbell. Scarcely a minute later, the door was opened by an austere, older man who looked down his nose at her. “Come inside, Miss. The waiting room is the first one on your right.” 1

What He Wants

Diana stepped inside and nodded politely at the butler, or whatever he was. She proceeded into the waiting room and paused. Oh shit. There was something wrong here. There were women draped over every piece of furniture. Beautiful, hand-carved cherry wood furniture. Hell. Beautiful women. Women who made others like Diana want to save every penny they owned to invest in plastic surgery. Not women who did housework and wanted to be a nanny. Shit. She tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. The light red curl promptly popped back as a stray. She found an empty chair by the doorway and sat down. Maybe she was dressed inappropriately. Her suit was simple. The white shirt underneath the plain brown suit was nothing to write home about. Diana looked from one woman to the next and inwardly sighed. She had a snowball’s chance in hell finding a position here. Why were all these women looking for a childcare position? There was a brown, soft leather couch to her right, displaying four beautiful blondes sandwiched side-by-side. Diana met one woman’s eyes and nodded. The woman looked away and said something in a whisper to another one. They smiled at her arrogantly and turned their heads. Hmph! Not only were they beautiful, they were also bitchy. Go figure. She should have brought something to read. This was going to take some time. The butler came over to her and offered her a book. Diana looked up at him. “This is the right house, isn’t it? You are in need of a housekeeper and nanny?” Her eyes darted around the room and made another mental comparison between herself and the beauty queens. He nodded. “Yes, ma’am.” Diana smiled and thanked him. He nodded briefly, turned on his heel and left the room. When she looked up again, the blondes were 2

What He Wants

sneering at her. Diana looked back at them and arched her eyebrow. They probably couldn’t read. That had to be it. The thought tickled her, and she smiled to herself. **** Sheridan looked at the monitor and watched the interaction between the women. He motioned to the blondes and grimaced. “These four aren’t going to make it through the door. If I wanted to get laid, yes. For this position, no. Tell them to leave.” Trevor hit an intercom button and issued the instructions. Two minutes later, the blondes stormed out of the room. Sheridan perused the room before he tapped the screen. “Send in this brunette. Then the mousy redhead. I’ll check again after their interviews.” He ran his hand wearily over his face. “I’m so tired of this bullshit. Is it ever going to end?” Trevor shook his head. “You’ll know her when you see her. I’ll bring in the brunette.” **** Diana grinned broadly as the blondes were escorted out of the room. Now only she and one other woman remained in the room. Their designer gowns made her groan in envy, but their attitudes were ridiculous. It was only a job, for Pete’s sake. They looked like they could afford to go without a paycheck or two. She didn’t have that luxury. A handsome man came in and escorted the dark-haired woman across from her into the next room. Man. She would give anything to get this job. If the salary was right, she would do her best to fill all the requirements the employer needed. 3

What He Wants

She became absorbed in the book the butler brought her, and time passed. When she looked up again, she was alone in the room. Diana blinked, looked at her watch, and groaned. “Shit,” she muttered. “Why didn’t anyone come and get me?” “You were busy,” a deep voice said from the shadows. Diana stood up abruptly and glanced around the room. “I’m sorry. Am I too late?” “No,” he answered silkily. “Come into my study.” She caught sight of the back of a dark-haired man exiting the waiting room through some ornately carved oak doors. Diana quickly followed him in. When the man turned around, her breath caught in her throat. He wasn’t real. He couldn’t be. Eyes as dark as night stared at her and watched her reaction. His long black hair was pulled back and tied. A generous mouth smiled down at her. A dark blue cable sweater clung to his chest, and blue jeans stretched tautly across his thighs. Diana’s nipples hardened, and she thanked all that was good he couldn’t read minds. Because right now, she would pay good money to slide her skirt up and slide his cock inside her. Her cheeks flamed, and she coughed slightly. Anything to cover up the blush she could feel creeping into her cheeks. The man watched her reaction and grinned. “I’m Sheridan. Are you still interested in the position?” Which position? The one where you’re on your back, and I’m fucking you mercilessly? God! Diana coughed again and lowered her face. “Yes,” she managed. “I’m still interested.” “Do you need a glass of water?” 4

What He Wants

“Please.” She looked up. He called for the butler. A minute later, Diana took the water glass off of the butler’s tray and thanked him. She sipped slowly on the drink. “Miss Stafford. I need someone.” “Yes?” “Someone very special.” He walked over to where she was and took the glass out of her hand. “Someone who will give me her best. Someone I can count on. Is that someone you?” “I’m a very hard worker,” she said. “I would give a hundred percent.” “I bet you would,” he said softly and then stepped back. “How do you feel about children?” “I love them,” Diana smiled. “They are absolutely precious.” “But you don’t have any?” Sheridan asked. “No.” “You’re sure?” “Sir. I can honestly say that is something that wouldn’t slip my mind.” Sheridan threw back his head and laughed. “Good. Good. But you want to?” “Of course.” “You don’t have any family?” “No.” She shook her head. “Everyone has passed away.” He stepped closer again. “May I have your hand?” Diana placed her hand in his and took a deep breath. He was so warm. Strong. She looked up into his eyes and was lost. **** Sheridan smiled and left Diana standing there. He called Trevor back in and motioned to her. 5

What He Wants

“What do you think?” “You went with the mousy redhead? Are you sure?” Trevor motioned to Diana who stood still, locked in time, blind and deaf to the conversation about her. “We’re compatible,” he shrugged. “I can feel it in her. She’s already attracted to me. I can see it in her eyes. I think she’s the one.” “If you’re certain, sir.” Trevor looked doubtfully at the redhead who appeared to still be looking at Sheridan. “I am. Make her room ready.” Sheridan stepped back over to Diana and waved his hand. Her eyes fluttered, and she smiled. “The salary will be a quarter of a million dollars deposited to your account every quarter for the next five years. Will that be sufficient?” Diana licked her lips. “Excuse me?” “One million dollars a year for five years. Is that enough?” She pulled her hand out of his and looked at him as if he were insane. “What are you wanting from me?” “I want you to be my wife and bear my son.” **** Diana looked at him closely. Sheridan smiled. “I am sane. And I am serious.” “I’m here for the nanny job. Housekeeping. Have you lost your mind?” She turned to look for the door. He grabbed her by the shoulders and turned her around. He leaned in toward her and flicked his tongue across her top lip. “I think you and I will be very good together, Diana.” His hand slipped to her left breast and caressed it through her jacket. His thumb brushed over her hardened nipple, and her breath caught. 6

What He Wants

“Very good together. You will be my wife. You will want for nothing. And I will give you things you have never dared wish for.” Diana stepped back on shaking legs and found herself against the wall. “I don’t even know you.” Sheridan stepped closer and wedged his leg between hers. “Your body knows me. Wants me. I’m simply asking for the chance, Diana. You won’t regret it.” It took everything in her not to grind herself against his strong thigh between her legs. She couldn’t think. Her clit was throbbing, and her nipples were aching. “Spend the night,” he said coaxingly. “We’ll talk more in the morning.” “Morning,” she repeated. “Yes. Fine.” The other handsome man walked back into the room, and Diana felt her cheeks flame again. He didn’t pay any attention to their position against the wall. “Follow me please.” He looked her in the eye. She searched for some inkling of any emotion in his face and found none. It unsettled her even more. Diana nodded, blew out a breath and walked as fast as she could for the doorway. The door shut behind her, and Sheridan smiled. “You’re mine, Diana. For as long as I want you. And you’ll give me the son that is my right.” **** The man escorted Diana to one of the most beautiful bedrooms she had ever seen. It was obviously decorated for a woman. Done in pale pinks, greens and ivories, the room was elegant, yet warm and comfortable. There was a large bed with a canopy, and a sitting area next to the bay window with a love seat and two chairs large enough to curl into with a good book. She walked over to one of the chairs 7

What He Wants

and sat, staring out of the window into the darkness, thinking about what had just happened. Her musings were interrupted when a maid brought dinner to Diana, and she ate the steak and vegetables while her mind continued to play over her day. She was thankful she didn’t have to deal with Sheridan right then. Her body wanted him. Any woman with a pulse would want him. There was no denying it. But a baby? A husband? It was crazy. Diana finished her dinner and decided a long, hot shower might help her relax and think. Once again, she was surrounded by luxury. The richness of the beautiful, inlaid marble tub and shower, the large, fluffy bath towels–even a bouquet of fresh flowers–made her smile. Her friend would tell her she was a fool if she didn’t take this chance. It would be a good life, but she would be giving up something she promised herself she would save for the right man. She was thirty-three. Not a spring chicken. Certainly not an old maid. The thought of a baby occupied her mind the entire time she relaxed in the heat of the pulsing shower. A baby. A husband. An urge rose up in her so strong, she had to sit down in the tub. What did she have right now? No family. No close friends. She was a loner. Melinda was her only confidante, and she was out of the country right now with the boy toy of choice. The sex wouldn’t be a hardship. Sheridan was magnificent. Maybe he would be a selfish lover. What if he was all show and no substance? Been there, done that, she thought and grinned. Hardly a situation she cared to repeat. Diana dried off and slipped into a blue, silk pajama set that had been hanging in the closet. She had opened every drawer and door when Trevor brought her here. Even the clothes in the drawer made a testament to the privileged life. 8

What He Wants

So much to think about. Her brain was overloading. Sleep. She needed sleep. Maybe everything would be clearer in the morning. **** Diana felt something brush over her left breast and moaned softly in her sleep. She felt her top being lifted and the cool air swept over her bare breast. Then heat. Moistness. Desire. Sheridan took Diana’s nipple into his mouth and teased it with his tongue. He swirled and sucked the hardness until he felt Diana put her hand on the back of his head and urge him on. He switched to the other breast while his hand played with the swollen nipple. Diana cried out as he sucked and licked her bare skin. The sensations shot down into her pussy, and she could feel wetness. Sheridan seemed to know what she wanted. He brought his hand down and pulled the shorts lower and lower until she was exposed to him. He worked his way down Diana’s body until he reached her belly. His hands grabbed her ass as his tongue traced a path to her pussy. He pulled her shorts off and spread her legs so he could look at her. His cock was hard as he watched her spread herself for him. She was already wet, but he wanted more. Sheridan lowered his mouth onto her pussy and flicked his tongue against her clit. Diana grabbed the back of his head and rubbed herself against his mouth. She threw back her head and groaned as she felt the orgasm begin to spread through her. Her legs were shaking as Sheridan relentlessly sucked her clit. He ran his tongue deep into her folds as he slid his finger in and out of her.

9

What He Wants

Diana’s breath caught as she felt herself tighten around Sheridan’s finger. It was too much. He deliberately kept up the pace as her body shook with wave after wave. “Please,” she murmured. “Yes,” he said, “please. Ask me again.” “Please,” she murmured huskily. She felt him bend her knees as he moved up onto the bed. “Again,” he said. “Please.” Sheridan slammed his cock into Diana so hard and fast, she screamed in pleasure as another orgasm ripped through her. He leaned down and took her nipple in his mouth as his cock worked in and out of her. He slid his arms over hers and kept her pinned down while the friction of their bodies built. Diana moaned deep in her throat as he moved faster and faster. She wrapped her legs around him and urged him deeper into her. “Do you like it?” he asked, breathing heavily. “Yes,” she breathed. “Oh, yes.” “You like feeling my cock buried in your pussy?” She couldn’t even talk, as his words excited her more. “You like me to suck your sweet pussy as you spread your legs?” Diana’s body bucked up against him as the orgasm slammed through her. She felt his body tighten as he came inside her. He stretched his body against hers, and she willed herself to breathe. She had never been fucked like that. Never. Her clit was throbbing, and her body was still in the throes of her multiple orgasms. “Oh,” she moaned. Sheridan propped himself up on his elbow and looked down at her. “Can you get used to that?” 10

What He Wants

“Are you here to sell yourself?” she asked softly as she looked over at him. “Whatever it takes,” he shrugged and then smiled. “That was more than I hoped for. You are all usually uptight.” “Us females?” Sheridan licked his lips. “Yes. You females.” He pushed himself up and rolled over to his side. “You will be my wife?” Diana watched him closely. “Why me? You could obviously have your pick of women.” She was thinking about the roomful of beautiful women he had lined up. “I was not attracted to them. There is something in you I need. That’s why I suggested this.” She sighed. “I don’t know, Sheridan. Just because we enjoy screwing each other doesn’t mean we should be parents.” “Think about it,” he said, rising up from the bed and slipping his robe back on. “I will talk to you over breakfast.” He walked out of her sight, and she heard the door shut behind him. Diana lay back on the bed and tried to think. It was rather hard since she just had the best sex of her life. Not even in her wildest fantasy or with her strongest vibrator had she felt like that. His mouth. She groaned and lay back. He knew where to go and what to do. The thought of his tongue between her legs had her wet again. “Damn it,” she said, rolling over and pulling the sheet over her aroused body. She needed to sleep.

11

What He Wants

Chapter 2 Diana slipped on a simple, yellow sundress for breakfast. Last night had danced through her dreams, and now played heavily on her mind. Sheridan was sure to bring up their “compatibility.” All that meant was he could give her one hell of an orgasm. Okay. Several. She squared her shoulders and walked out of her room and down the stairs. She made up her mind. It was too much to ask. She didn’t know him. Didn’t know what type of a father he would be. Why bring a baby into this? Diana’s eyes softened. It would be a beautiful baby. She unconsciously put her hand against her belly, and her eyes flew open wide. Oh, shit! Birth control. She wasn’t on any, and she didn’t remember Sheridan using a condom. Diana hit herself in the forehead. Stupid. Stupid. Thinking with her clit. Fuck. She marched into the first open doorway and stopped in her tracks. Sheridan. Half-dressed. Diana leaned against the doorframe and studied him. His back muscles rippled as he leaned down to pick up his shirt and put it on. She didn’t have a chance to look at him as closely as she wanted to last night. It was a blur of tongues, mouths, and pleasure. He turned around, and looked Diana in the eye. “Did you find what you were looking for?” She nodded and blushed. “Yes.” 12

What He Wants

“I’ll escort you to the kitchen.” He grinned and stepped out into the hallway and shut the door behind him. He offered his arm, and she took it. Diana licked her lips. He was so warm. She snuck a peek at him and inwardly groaned. That mouth had her wanting to bite him on his lower lip. What had gotten into her? Sheridan. Sheridan had gotten into her. And right now, it was all she could think about. He stood aside while Diana walked into the dining room. When she turned to look at him, he slammed her back against the wall and pinned her body. The adrenaline rush had her breath whooshing out in a whisper. “Sheridan,” she moaned. He didn’t pause. He opened his mouth over hers and stroked her with his tongue. She grabbed his hair and brought him as close as she possibly could. Their tongues dueled as she felt him pull her sundress up and spread her legs with his hand. Sheridan pulled aside her panties and rubbed her pussy while his middle finger slid in and out of her tight hole. Diana bucked herself against the palm of his hand. He grabbed her ass and nudged her legs apart further. He unzipped his pants and pulled out his cock. Rubbing it against her hot slit, he pulled her dress down off her shoulder and squeezed her breast. She slid up higher until his cock slid into her, and she lifted her legs around his waist. He banged her harder and harder as she threw back her head and moaned. “Come,” he whispered. “I want to feel your pussy tighten around my cock. I want to know you like me fucking you. You like it, don’t you?” “Yes. Yes. Fuck me harder.” 13

What He Wants

He grabbed her ass and slammed into her repeatedly as she screamed out her orgasm. He groaned and held her still as he felt himself pouring into her. **** Diana was still breathing heavily as he slid out of her and tucked himself back into his pants. His finger slid down between her legs and stroked her still hard clit. “Would it be so bad?” “So bad?” she said in disbelief. “I can’t keep my legs shut around you. I don’t know anything about you. I see you, and I want to screw your legs off. That can’t be normal.” She adjusted her dress and avoided his eyes. Her body was still shaking from the throes of the last orgasm. If she had to attempt to walk now, she was screwed. Diana pushed herself back against the wall and stood very, very still. The pleasure washed across her face, and she could feel Sheridan staring at her. He lightly touched her nipples and growled low in his throat. “You are even more beautiful in the light of day. What’s wrong with what we’re doing?” “Okay. I know this might not make sense to a man of your obvious means, but I am a little uncomfortable with the situation. I don’t know you, but you’re willing to pay me five million dollars to be your wife and have your child. Something is just not quite right. It sounds pitiful…for both of us.” He sighed. “Come with me to breakfast, Diana. I will explain everything there.” He held out his hand, and she slipped hers inside. Sheridan walked through two more doors before they came into the kitchen. Diana looked around in disbelief. He 14

What He Wants

literally meant the kitchen. Maybe she was to be the hired hand after all. “I can see what you’re thinking, Diana,” he said softly. “Have a seat at the bar. Cook has prepared breakfast. I choose to eat here because I am more comfortable in this room. Nothing more. Nothing less. You will not be a hired hand. You will be my wife. You will bear my son.” They both sat down across from each other. “Why me? Why not one of those glamorous women who decorated your furniture yesterday?” “I feel a connection with you.” Diana blushed and coughed slightly. The actions of last night and this morning came back full force. “I’m sure you could have that connection with anybody. You’re fabulous in bed.” Sheridan grinned and ran his hand down Diana’s arm. “But I have chosen you, Diana. What is holding you back? Are you seeing anyone?” “No,” she admitted. “But that doesn’t mean he isn’t around the next corner.” “It doesn’t mean he is, either.” Diana forked her eggs and took a bite to buy time before she replied. “I thought I would fall in love by now. Have children. Have the career I wanted. And nothing has worked out.” “This could be your chance, Diana. Take it.” “Explain to me again what you want.” “I wish to marry you. You will be paid a stipend every quarter for five years. You will bear my son. You will want for nothing. There is nothing I cannot give you.” “Love?” “Diana. I care for you. I won’t lie to make this easier. But we are compatible. I know you realize this. Think about 15

What He Wants

it. I will leave you alone for a week here. At the end of that time, I would like your decision.” “A week? Here?” She motioned to the opulent surroundings. “Yes.” He nodded. “I can pay you for your time.” “That won’t be necessary,” she said. “I accept. After one week’s time, I will give you my final decision.” Sheridan stood up and walked over to Diana. He spun her around to face him. “A kiss to seal the deal.” Her breath caught as he lowered his mouth to hers and took pleasure in stroking her mouth with his tongue. He sucked gently on her tongue as his hand crept down to pull her closer. There was no mistaking his erection pressing against her leg. She shifted and spread her legs so she could feel his hardness against her clit. She had never known her body could desire someone so completely. He broke the kiss, breathing heavily, and looked into her eyes. “That was it for a week, Diana. Unless you make up your mind sooner. You know where my room is.” He left her sitting there. Diana pulled her dress down over her legs and turned around. She was still throbbing. The food looked unappetizing now. She wanted sex. God! What had gotten into her? That had been the only thing on her mind since she had looked at Sheridan. She stood up and walked out of the kitchen. First, she would take care of this ache. Then she would look around the house and see what was about. **** Trevor found Sheridan in his room. “I hope you’re sure about this one. Though she does seem easy to leave.” “That’s enough,” Sheridan snapped. “I won’t think of that until I have to. For now, it’s enough she’s staying for a week. I can convince her in that amount of time. I have to.” 16

What He Wants

“Will you watch her?” “To a degree,” Sheridan admitted. “She’s in her room right now. I left her a little bothered this morning at breakfast.” “You know she can’t resist you. No mortal woman can. It hardly seems fair.” “She will be paid,” Sheridan said harshly. “That should be enough. And I can arrange it so she doesn’t remember. I will not be tied to a woman I do not love. Diana Stafford is a means to an end. And that’s it.” Trevor shrugged. “As you wish.” He turned and left the room. **** Diana walked back to her room with her mind on what she wanted. She needed to ease this ache between her legs, or she could forget about concentrating on anything. Sheridan wouldn’t touch her for a week. She would do her best to avoid him. Just the thought of his hands and mouth on her made her pussy wetter. First things first. She walked into her room and locked the door behind her. Diana lay down on the bed and pulled her sundress off her shoulders and down over her breasts. She could pretend Sheridan was here. He would touch her breasts. Her hands grabbed her breasts and pinched lightly on her nipples. Her right hand kept playing with her nipples while her left hand reached down and pulled the sundress up to her waist. She switched hands and began rubbing her clit with her middle finger. Oh, yes. That felt so good. Diana slipped two fingers into her pussy and worked them in and out. Her thumb circled her clit while she moved her hips. She wished he were here. His big cock sliding into her soaking pussy. He would fuck her good. She rubbed her clit in circles and thought about Sheridan’s mouth. His tongue 17

What He Wants

deep into her pussy. She could feel it. She rubbed faster and spread her legs wider. Her hips thrust up. The orgasm had her working her finger faster and faster until she could feel herself break. Wave after wave had her crying out. Diana lay limp on the bed. He had bewitched her. That had to be it. She only masturbated when it had been months since her last sexual encounter. This morning hardly qualified. She pulled her dress off and lay down under the covers. A nap. She needed a rest from her mind and body. And if the answer came to her while she was unconscious, so much the better. **** Sheridan paced his bedroom while Diana finished pleasuring herself. He could hear every moan. Feel every sensation. They had bonded the first time they had sex. As soon as Sheridan chose her, they were linked. That was the rule with his people. And she was driving him insane. He didn’t understand why mortals had to complicate everything. He offered her money. She wouldn’t have to do anything above and beyond. Just a little sex and procreation. Mortals did it all the time. They were a species he didn’t understand, but he knew if his own race were to survive, they would have to mesh at some point. And he was it. It had been written long ago, he was to carry on the line with a human woman. Their son would go on to rule his race and influence others. Diana would be easily controlled. Part of her already belonged to him. The thought of her moving under him caused his cock to harden, and he groaned. It was his price to pay. There were sexually linked. His race would hole up for two weeks and have sex nonstop to produce a child. Mortals didn’t seem to want to do that, especially the females. So he would bide his time, keep Diana here, and 18

What He Wants

hope she made the right choice. Of course, if she didn’t, he had more plans. **** Diana woke up around one o’clock and took a shower. She tried to relax as the hot water beat down on her. The house was huge, and she was ready to explore every foot of it. There were gardens outside and several pathways. The house had to have a library somewhere. She dressed casually in jean shorts and a red tank top. She strapped on light, brown sandals and started down the stairs. The older man who opened the door for her yesterday was watching her down by the foot of the stairs. Diana walked toward him and held out her hand. “I wanted to thank you for the book yesterday. I made the mistake of forgetting mine.” “You’re welcome, Miss.” He took her hand. “You did seem a trifle bored. I suppose that studying your reflection in the polished furniture was not biding the time.” Diana threw back her head and laughed. “Hardly. Is that what the others were doing?” “Most,” he sniffed. “Horrible creatures. Full of themselves.” She nodded. “I really do appreciate the book. Mr. Sheridan has asked me to stay for a week. Could you please direct me to the library?” “Pleasure, Miss. Follow me.” He started down the hallway and opened up the fourth door on the right. Diana followed him in and sighed in pleasure. Shelves and shelves of books were stacked from floor to ceiling. There was only one side of the room with no books. But there were enormous bay windows. A fireplace was lit on 19

What He Wants

the right wall and there were two buttery-soft leather couches perfect for reading situated close to it. She walked to the first shelf and ran her fingers over the spines. Beautiful. She turned to the man who had brought her here. “Thank you.” Diana tilted her head. “I’m sorry. I don’t believe you gave me your name.” “Miles, Miss. Just Miles. Enjoy yourself.” He shut the door behind him. Diana picked a book randomly from the many shelves and stared at the title. “History of the Spardens.” A beautiful picture of a man and woman were displayed on the front. They were nude. Each was wrapped in the other’s arms. The couple was in color. Their skin appeared transparent. Bright light erupted where there bodies were touching. The background was black and white. The book was leather-bound with a delicate gold-leaf design in the middle. She flipped the book over to look at the back. Nothing. No author’s pictures. No blurb. Diana made her way over to the couch closest to the fireplace and sat down. Maybe she shouldn’t read this. Lord knows it was probably explicit. Unless she wanted to begin and end each day playing with herself. At least for a week. The thought made her grin. It could be worse. She opened the book and started reading. **** Sheridan stopped Miles in the hallway. “Are you getting soft on me, Miles?” “Sir?” The austere man looked down at his employer. “Giving the mortal a book yesterday and giving her a tour today. You know she’s temporary.” “I know she’s bored, sir. She actually has intelligence. I can feel that in her. Not a flicker with the other ones 20

What He Wants

yesterday. Vapid little vessels. Preening like peacocks waiting for mating.” “Miles.” Sheridan’s tone was full of shock. “You surprise me. You know I must continue our line. I don’t want you attached to the female mortal. She is nothing. She will serve a purpose, and I will cut her loose. Understood?” “Perfectly.” Miles bowed. “Your pet is in the library now. She’s actually reading.” He turned around and left Sheridan standing there with his mouth open. Never in all his years had Miles spoken to him in that tone. Something was wrong. Surely the mortal would not cause trouble with his staff. He would have to make sure she was occupied. Perhaps he should check in on her. Sheridan moved quickly down the hallway and into the library. He saw Diana curled up on the couch reading a book. She was utterly absorbed in the words. He walked up behind her and glanced down at the book in her lap. Impossible. She couldn’t be reading it. It wasn’t allowed. Sheridan walked around to the front of Diana and tapped the page she was reading. “Interesting?” Diana’s eyes cleared as she looked up at him. “Yes. Very. I’ve never read this mythology.” She closed the book and tapped the spine. “This is about a race of people who are superior to humans and advanced spiritually and sexually. They are named Spardens for the ‘spiritual’ and ‘ardent’ pieces of their personalities.” She shrugged. “It’s quite interesting. I can’t believe I’ve never stumbled on it before. But then again,” she waved to the walls and walls of books, “not every library has your resources. Sheridan smiled at the compliment and gestured toward the book still on her lap. “Tell me more.” 21

What He Wants

“Well.” She sat back against the couch and ticked the items off on her fingers. “This race is supposedly very old. Formed at least three thousand years ago. They’ve kept to themselves. They think the mortal race is foolish.” She grinned. “We rather are, actually. But they are depicted as snobbish. I suppose I really wouldn’t want to meet one. There is enough arrogance in the world as it is.” “What else?” “Well, I haven’t gotten very far.” Diana held up the book to show how much she had read. “There are stories of sexual celebrations and revelry. And stories of mystical powers that these Spardens have. It’s fascinating. They can read minds to an extent. Communicate with animals. Their intelligence is off the chart.” Diana tapped the book again. “Where did you find this?” “It was handed down to me,” he smiled. “Folklore is also very popular with my family. We enjoy the stories.” Sheridan pointed to the book. “Would you like me to put it up for you?” “No.” She shook her head. “I’m not finished with it yet. But thank you.” Diana closed the book suddenly. “I think I’ll step outside for a walk.” “Are you avoiding me?” Sheridan’s tone was teasing, but she could sense the real question underneath. “I’m protecting myself,” she replied, looking him in the eye. “You do something to me that I can’t quite come to terms with. I’m not making a lifelong decision based on the fact I want to have sex with you. So, I am going for a walk.” Diana stood up from the couch and carried the book out of the room with her. Five minutes later Miles walked in. “Yes, sir?” “Miles. Did you give her that book?” 22

What He Wants

“Hardly, sir. You did. As she is drawn to you, she is attracted to all parts of you. It was inevitable.” “Damn it,” Sheridan growled. “Anything else, sir?” “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” “Immensely.” Miles turned and strode from the room. Sheridan looked at some of the other books of his ancestors and groaned. The woman didn’t need knowledge. She needed to hole up with him for two weeks and have sex nonstop. He picked up the rest of the books and willed them to the top shelf of the first column of books. Out of sight, out of mind. Too bad the mortal wasn’t the same way.

23

What He Wants

Chapter 3 Diana hurried outside and down the rock pathway. Her thoughts were in a jumble. The minute Sheridan walked into the room, he had her undivided attention. She tried unsuccessfully to concentrate on the book, but it was hopeless. He seemed to command her attention wherever he went. Her body tightened with anticipation at the sight of him. And her pussy grew wet. She wanted him to touch her again. Everywhere. She took a deep breath to steady herself. Sheridan wasn’t playing fair. He couldn’t be. Diana walked down the path until it ended at a wooden bench. She sat down and thought of her options. The money wasn’t everything. She could find another job. People did it all the time. But Sheridan. He wouldn’t let her go. And the thought of him touching someone else the way he touched her…she wanted to kill just thinking about it. The clouds floated by, but Diana didn’t see them. This man wanted to make a family with her. A family. Diana let her thoughts drift in that direction. She had always wanted children. And she thought she would have some by now. Melinda would laugh her ass off if she could see her right now. She would say, “Go for it!” And if she ever saw Sheridan, she’d have him on his back in seconds. A strange feeling rose up in Diana, momentarily choking her. Oh shit! She tried to breathe slowly in and out. 24

What He Wants

Madness. This had to be madness. Diana stood up quickly and took off down another path. Her heart was beating frantically. Panic set in. She couldn’t possibly be attached to him already. Her hands flew to her burning cheeks. Sheridan. Damn him! What had he done to her? She thought back over their encounters and felt her knees buckle. She wanted to fuck him senseless. Right this minute. Diana stopped in the middle of the path and told herself to breathe. She looked around, and her surroundings stopped her cold. The garden went on for acres. Tulips, irises, and lilies of every color covered the entire right side of the garden. To her left were roses twining up engraved metal piping. She touched a crimson rose lightly, almost afraid she would damage it. It was soft as silk and perfectly formed. Diana leaned forward and inhaled the sweet fragrance. Flowers were a luxury. And she didn’t have many luxuries in her life. Her old job kept the bills paid, but that was about it. No extra money for clothes, shoes, or frivolous items. When was the last time she had a new dress? Diana tilted her head and thought back. It was over two years ago. And Melinda bought it for her. Diana plucked the rose and placed it in her palm. It was still beautiful, but off of the vine, it would die. What would happen to her here? Could she still be herself? Would she change? Was it worth it? What about Sheridan? Conflicting thoughts filtered through her mind. She wanted to stay. She was afraid to stay. Diana wanted to crawl under Sheridan’s skin and be as close as humanly possible. What was it about that man? It was only the first day here, and she was already more than half-committed to stay. 25

What He Wants

What did she have to lose? A real love? A soul mate? And what if she was never destined to have one to begin with? Diana sank onto another bench and studied the flower in the palm of her hand. She looked out amongst the flowers and sighed. “What are you thinking?” She shrieked and spun around. The man who brought the women to Sheridan was standing there. They eyed one another distrustfully. She didn’t know how close this man was to Sheridan and if he knew all about the reason for her being here. The man studied her. He didn’t see the attraction, but he would respect his leader’s decision. “Trevor.” He held out his hand in introduction. “Diana.” She returned his handshake and regarded him solemnly. “You snuck up on me. I didn’t hear you.” “I was out for a stroll,” he explained. “You seemed deep in thought.” An uneasy silence fell between them. Trevor motioned to the flower in her hand. “Are you enjoying the garden?” “Yes,” she admitted. “I’m sorry for plucking this.” She held out her hand. “You may pick any flowers you wish, Diana. This is your garden for as long as you’re here.” She set the rose down gently on the bench. “Thank you.” She picked the book up and walked off toward the house. Trevor picked up the rose with his left hand and held it up to the bush it came from. His right hand swept across the buds. The flower reattached itself, and he smiled. He could pick up emanations from the flower after Diana 26

What He Wants

touched it. She was thinking of staying. Sheridan would be pleased. Maybe the mortal would work out after all. **** Sheridan felt Diana reenter the house. He gauged her mood and smiled. She was contemplative. He was at an advantage right now. She was wavering on staying. This was the time to strike. He changed his clothes and walked downstairs. Diana was returning to her room when she felt Sheridan behind her. Her nipples ached, and her clit throbbed. She fought turning around, but in the end it didn’t matter. It seemed to be a fight she would never win. Diana swung around and looked at him. Sheridan was watching her with those onyx eyes that seemed to notice everything. He didn’t say a word. He simply stood there watching her. “Can I help you?” she rasped. “I simply came to see how you were doing your first day. Did you enjoy the gardens?” “Yes.” She spun to go when his words stopped her. “Tell me.” He edged closer, and her eyes grew larger. She could smell him, God help her. Shades of sandalwood teased her nose. The strong, masculine scent threatened her composure. Diana looked at the pulse beating at his neck. Just a little nip. Her mouth on his skin. Her hand actually came up to bring him closer to her when she stepped back. “I need to change clothes,” her voice strained. She practically ran up the stairs. Sheridan watched her go. Odd little creature. So much pleasure to be had, but she was stubborn. What would it 27

What He Wants

take to break that? He contemplated the possibilities. Another late night visit? Catch her unaware? Why was she so resistant to what he offered? Trevor walked through the front door and over to Sheridan. “She’s thinking of staying.” “Yes. But she hasn’t wholly accepted that yet. I need to find a way to break down her walls. And I think I have an idea.” He looked at his assistant. Sheridan closed his eyes for a second and then grinned. When he opened them, they were shining silver. “Bring me flowers, Trevor,” he ordered. “Lots of flowers. I have a wall to tear down.” **** Diana changed clothes into a pair of blue cotton shorts and a yellow tank top. She wound her hair up and lay down on the bed. She picked up the Sparden mythology book and started reading where she left off. Utterly fascinating. Where were these myths when she was growing up? She absolutely adored Greek, Egyptian, and Norse mythology. Maybe this book was recently written. She flipped the book to the very beginning and tried to find the copyright page. The author page. Anything. Diana flipped back and forth until she was frowning. Nothing. She picked the book up and studied it. Her hands touched the picture on the front, and she pulled back abruptly. It was warm. That didn’t make any sense. She was about to touch it again when someone knocked on her door. Diana looked at the book one last time and walked over to the door. When she opened it, she received a face full of flowers. The most exquisite rose bouquet she’d ever seen was in front of her. Reaching out and stroking the petals softly, she stepped aside. “Oh, how lovely! Bring it in please. Put it over there.” She motioned to the dresser. 28

What He Wants

The man carrying the flowers smiled at her. “Mr. Sheridan would like your room to be filled with flowers. He heard you enjoyed your visit to the gardens.” “That’s very kind.” She smiled. “Thank you.” And very interesting. Obviously Trevor was Sheridan’s eyes and ears here. She would have to watch herself and her actions. The man nodded and left. Diana walked over to the array and brushed her nose against the velvety petals. Heavenly. “Do you like them?” She jerked her head up and scowled at the man in her doorway. “Dammit, Sheridan! Would you quit sneaking up on me like that?” “I was simply asking if you liked the flowers.” “Yes. I love them. Thank you.” She avoided his gaze and walked to the opposite wall. Diana brought her head up and pinned him with her eyes. “I thought you were going to leave me to decide in peace. I haven’t had a moment’s peace since I’ve arrived. Either you or your watchdog have followed me the entire time.” He walked forward, and she held up her hands. “Stay over there. I have no willpower with you.” “Isn’t that good?” “Peachy,” she sniped. “I love having no control over my own body.” Sheridan looked at her. “Can you at least tell me if you’re considering staying? It might ease my mind a bit.” Diana took a deep breath. “Yes. I’m considering it. But I won’t be bullied into a decision.” Sheridan watched her closely. Her pulse was beating rapidly in her neck, and he knew she was struggling with herself. If he walked over to her, they would end up fucking in a matter of minutes. But what would she feel like 29

What He Wants

afterwards? She would resent him. Resent him for not listening to her. These human females were going to be the death of him. “As you wish.” He turned to walk back out the door. “One more thing.” He turned around. “Dress for dinner. I would like some company this evening.” He left without another word. She walked briskly over to the door and shut it. Arrogant man. Diana willed herself to calm down, but it was no use. Every time her body was near to him, it was as if she were in heat. She could feel the moisture between her legs, and she groaned at the unfairness of it all. She would make it. A quick dinner and then upstairs for another session of “please thyself.” She took another shower and used the showerhead as a makeshift vibrator. The spray of the water brought her an orgasm quickly, but it left her unsatisfied, and she cursed. Right now it was the best she could do. Diana stepped out of the shower to change. She walked over to the closet and opened it. There were dozens of silk dresses. Every shade of the rainbow, all in her size, was represented. Diana plucked out a green shift and held it up to herself. Not bad. She pulled her hair down and tried to style it. Unfortunately, she had no experience in hair fashions, so she let it fall softly on her shoulders. She studied herself in the mirror on the vanity. What did Sheridan see in her? She wasn’t as attractive as some of the other women he “interviewed.” What swung the vote in her direction? She would have to remember to ask him later. She added a touch of makeup and slid her shoes on. When she was ready, she mentally prepared herself and then opened the door. Diana gasped in surprise. There 30

What He Wants

were flowers everywhere. Every table had an arrangement on it, and the vases were overflowing. Her hands were drawn to touch the delicate buds from display to display. Irises, lilies, orchids, and more roses spilled over the tables they were sitting on. Diana walked slowly down the stairs, pausing at every new arrangement. She briefly wondered how many flowers gave their lives for the spectacular show. She walked slowly down the hall toward the dining room when she ran into Trevor. Literally. Her hands came up and came into contact with his chest. “I’m so sorry,” she stuttered an apology. Her cheeks were red with embarrassment. “I was looking at the flowers.” She stepped back. “Not to worry.” He smiled down at her. His hands stroked her arms. “No harm. They’re beautiful, aren’t they?” “Yes.” She looked up at him. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m having dinner with Sheridan.” “Of course.” He dropped his hands and watched her rush away from him. Interesting. He brought his hands up and changed his appearance. Sheridan grinned. She wasn’t even attracted to Trevor. This bore some consideration. She wasn’t like the brunette. That mortal’s sexual tendencies were easy to read. She wanted both of them. And her wish was exactly what made that weekend interesting. What was he going to do with the future mother of his child? **** Diana sat at the table and waited for Sheridan to appear. Miles poured her a glass of red wine and bowed. She was about to ask where Sheridan was when he appeared in the doorway. 31

What He Wants

“You look lovely this evening.” “Thank you.” She tried to smile. “You’re very handsome yourself.” He nodded his head and sat down. She studied him. His hair shone in the light, and she longed to touch it. To thread her fingers through it and bring his mouth to hers. To bring his mouth down on her and have him pleasure her. “…don’t you think?” Sheridan’s words brought her out of her reverie. She blinked rapidly. “Pardon me?” “I said I believe the roast will be wonderful this evening. Don’t you think?” “Quite.” Diana pressed her legs together and hoped like hell the dinner would fly by. Her nipples were already hard, and she was going to leave a nice wet spot on the lovely, silk-covered chair if she didn’t calm down. Thinking about his mouth on her body wasn’t helping. Miles brought in the salads and left quietly. Sheridan studied Diana in the silence. She was tense. He probed further and smiled satisfactorily. She was also highly aroused. What would it take to send her over the edge? “We only need to have sex for two weeks nonstop.” “What?” she squeaked. “That is the usual time when a child is conceived. Then you’re free to do what you want. I wouldn’t want to burden you with sex.” Diana coughed lightly and chugged down her glass of red wine. Damn him. He knew what he was doing to her. She looked up and grimaced. He was smiling complacently. She smiled back. “Fine. Let’s do that.” She pushed her chair back and walked over to him. Diana reached down and stroked him through his slacks. 32

What He Wants

“I’ve had enough playing around. Let’s fuck. Right now.” Sheridan swept his arm across the table and pushed everything onto the floor. He picked Diana up and set her on the table. He stripped her panties off and unzipped his pants. He didn’t bother with the niceties. He simply shoved himself into her, and she cried out. He pulled the top of her dress down and ran his tongue over her nipple, tugging at the softness. Diana moaned and wrapped her legs around him. She moved against him, loving the feel of his cock inside her. He grabbed her ass and pushed himself into her over and over again. Diana pulled his mouth back down to her breast and shuddered in need. She could feel tingles begin in her pussy and spread throughout her body. Sheridan moved one hand from her ass and stroked her clit with his thumb. She jerked up against him, rubbing herself against his hand. She looked down between their bodies. The sight of his cock moving in and out of her pussy was her undoing. Sheridan drove her up and over again, and she trembled. Her head fell back, and she vaguely remembered whimpering. Sheridan held himself up on his elbows over her. He was trying to calm his breathing. As soon as he guessed her intent, he shielded the room so as not to embarrass her. The last thing he needed was a spectator. He didn’t think it would be conducive to romance with this mortal. Diana’s legs were still wrapped around him, and he slid his hand underneath her ass to keep her where she was. She mumbled and tried to move, but he stilled her. “You might want to warn me next time.”

33

What He Wants

Diana opened her eyes and grinned up at him. “What fun would that be? Besides, what did you expect? Sitting over there looking delicious and all.” “Delicious?” he echoed. “Yes.” She sighed. “Sinfully. One look at you, and my best intentions are blown straight to hell. Must be rough.” “Inexplicably.” “Liar.” She grinned. Diana tried to disentangle herself one more time, and he smacked her lightly on the ass. “Not yet.” She looked around and blushed. “We’re on the dining room table, and it’s dinner time. I hardly think this is what Miles had in mind.” He brushed her hair back and looked at her. “Come to my room.” “Can we have room service?” she joked. “Anything your heart desires,” he promised. Diana moved away from him and slid off the table. She pulled her dress up, then smoothed the skirt down. Sheridan zipped his pants back up and studied her. “I’ll be waiting.” She turned and walked out of the room. **** Diana walked straight to Sheridan’s room and thanked all that was good there was no one roaming the halls. It was quite obvious what she had been up to, and she didn’t feel like trying to explain herself. She stepped into his room and shut the door behind her. Curiosity overwhelmed her. This was Sheridan’s bedroom. Her hand reached out to touch his dressers and four-poster bed. The room was furnished in dark greens and browns. It was undeniably masculine, but just as elegant as her room. 34

What He Wants

The bed was oak and enormous. She could probably lie across it and still not dangle a foot over. A forest green comforter was spread from corner to corner. Diana’s hands stroked it, and she sighed. Chenille. Absolutely stunning. She sat up quickly and walked into the bathroom. She’d clean up a little first. And then, more sex. Diana grinned. Not bad at all. And two weeks nonstop? The thought made her blood heat up. When did she decide to stay? What was it about that man? She shook her head and disrobed. Damned if she knew. She only knew it felt right. Diana started the shower and stepped under the spray. She was rinsing her hair when the sliding door opened. Sheridan grinned at her. “Want some company?” “Why not?” She glanced down at his erection. Diana reached back and grasped him in her hand, and he stepped inside. She tried to turn toward him, but he kept her facing forwards. “My turn,” he whispered in her ear. He brought his hands up by her sides and slid around to cup her breasts. Sheridan moved his dick against her ass, and she moaned. His silky hardness made it difficult to concentrate. She wanted him. Now. Sheridan moved his hands for a second, and Diana spun around and dropped to her knees. She wanted to give him pleasure. Make him feel what she felt. Diana opened her mouth and took the tip of his cock between her lips. Sheridan grasped the back of her head and thrust forward. She flicked her tongue against his tip and swirled it around the head. Her hands cupped his balls, and she softly massaged them. Sheridan tried to bring her back up to him, but she slipped his entire length into her mouth and began sucking his cock. Her hand worked him while her mouth moved up 35

What He Wants

and down. He found the rhythm and thrust his cock farther into her mouth. She could feel his balls tighten and knew he was about to come. She looked up and saw his head thrown back in enjoyment. Diana worked her mouth faster and faster until Sheridan’s body began to shake. Her hand still worked up and down while she stood up. He groaned loudly as he came, and she loved the look on his face. He cracked open his eyes and looked at her. She licked her lips, and he groaned again. “Not fair,” he managed. Diana grinned at him. “Oh yes. Very fair. I win this round.” He chuckled. “Don’t count me out. We haven’t even begun our two-week honeymoon.” He threaded her hair through his fingers and brought her mouth to his. “We have plans, Diana.” His husky voice made her shiver. She was going to be married. To a man she didn’t know. Diana stepped back and looked at Sheridan. “I have questions.” “Yes.” He sighed. “I imagined you would. Let’s go to bed. We can talk there.” He opened the glass door, and Diana stepped out. She wrapped a towel around herself and handed one to Sheridan. She studied his body as he toweled off. He was beautiful. His body was tan and muscular. Muscles ripped every time he moved. She couldn’t fit her hands around his biceps. And his chest was taut. His stomach muscles clenched as she watched them. “Unless you want to resume the pleasure portion and not talk, you’ll quit that.” “I’m simply looking at you.” 36

What He Wants

“I know. And I’m simply wanting to slam you against the wall and fuck you until you can’t walk.” His words made her breath catch in her throat. She bit her tongue before her “yes please” could escape. Diana hurried to the bed and pulled the satin sheet over her, then watched Sheridan walk out of the bathroom and slide in next to her. A million things were going through her mind. She agreed to marry this man. She needed to bring everything out in the open. There were still so many gray areas. “Let’s talk,” she began. Sheridan groaned. “No good sentence has ever started with ‘let’s talk’. None. It’s documented.” He pushed her hair back behind her ear and edged closer. She put her hand on his chest to keep him at bay. “I realize you think this is all said and done, but it’s not. I have questions. And you’ll answer them, or you’ll marry someone else.” “Fine.” He sighed. “Let’s talk.” “Okay. Explain this whole contract marriage thing with me again. I’m not understanding something. Why me? Why a marriage? And why are you so damned convinced I will produce a son?” He tilted his head. “You, because we have bonded. A contract so you can have legal documentation of what you’re entering into. And you will produce a son because that is what the men in my line do.” “We don’t have to be married.” “Yes. We do. It’s written. I must marry the mother of my child.” “And you’re a sucker for tradition?” She grinned. “Something like that.” He nodded. “Something like that. What else do you want to know?” 37

What He Wants

“How soon are we doing this?” “Tomorrow.” “Tomorrow?” She yelped and jumped up from the bed. “You’re joking, right?” “Not at all. The sooner we begin our honeymoon, the quicker an heir will be produced.” For some reason, his coldness hurt. Diana looked over at Sheridan on the bed. At least she could have sex like a rabbit. Couldn’t she? And there was money involved. And she wasn’t growing younger every year. Shit. It was an uncomfortable position to be in. She knew it was no love match. Obviously. One did not fall in love overnight. Or at the drop of a hat. Or even when they were so ridiculously sexually compatible. “Don’t you need family or something here?” she asked. “Trevor and Miles are my family. And the heir I produce.” No mention of her. Go figure. “And what will I do once I birth the heir to the throne?” Sheridan heard the curt tone and sighed. Always had to play nice with the mortals. Their feelings were so close to the surface. He stood up from the bed and walked toward Diana. “You can do whatever you damn well please. You will have everything you’ve ever wanted.” He stroked her back and smiled when he felt her response. This mortal would give him the son his birthright demanded. He knew it. Diana melted into Sheridan. She would be married tomorrow. Just another day in paradise.

38

What He Wants

Chapter 4 Diana awoke the next morning with rose petals sprinkled all over her bed. She gasped and sat up quickly. Someone had visited her while she was sleeping. She scooped the petals up and held them to her nose. She inhaled deeply and smiled. The garden came to her this time. She started to swing her feet over the side of the bed when her door opened again. She gasped and pulled the covers up on her almost bare body. Trevor opened the door and smiled. “What in the blue hell do you think you’re doing?” she yelled. “Have you lost your mind?” “Hardly,” he smiled down at her. “We have things to do, you and I.” “Pardon me?” “There is the ceremonial bath.” Trevor bowed low. “I will help you dress for the wedding.” “Whoa!” She held up her hand. “I really don’t think so, Trevor. That’s awfully nice of you to offer, but no one is helping me bathe.” “Really.” He arched an eyebrow. “That is what is required of me. I had no idea you would object.” “Bullshit,” she snapped.

39

What He Wants

His lips twitched as he eyed her. “Maybe I did. But it is tradition. Sheridan will expect me to be by your side until I give you to him.” “And are these yours, too?” She picked up the petals and let them slip through her fingers back onto the bed. “Those are Sheridan’s. He gave them to you before midnight last night. It is ritual. You are not to see each other today until the ceremony. Shall I help you?” “You take one more step, and I’m going to break your fingers,” she threatened. Trevor started unbuttoning his shirt. Diana watched as he finished and shrugged it off his shoulders. There was no doubt in her mind he was attractive. Her eyes traced the muscles in his chest and abdomen. Her fingers itched to touch, and that bothered her. “What are you doing?” she demanded. “I assume we’ll both be getting wet as you choose not to let me help you. I do not want to damage my clothes.” “Ass.” Trevor threw back his head and laughed. “You are delightful. I had my doubts at first, but as usual, Sheridan was correct. You will be a wonderful addition to the household.” “Okay.” Diana slid off the bed but still held the sheet to her chest. “I realize you’re serious about this. I really do. But there is no need for you to sit on the side of the tub and hold my hand.” “Oh, Diana.” He shook his head back and forth with a wide grin. “I won’t be holding your hand. I’ll be bathing you.” “Over my dead fucking body,” she snarled. “Is this some type of sadistic test?” “Worried you’ll fail?” he asked. 40

What He Wants

Diana took a deep breath and let go of the sheet. The blue silk baby doll nightie skimmed high on her thighs. She walked toward Trevor deliberately, watching him. “And what would failure be, Trevor? You and I? Would that call the wedding off? Explain it to me, will you?” Trevor took both straps and slid them off her shoulders. Diana inhaled sharply as he hooked his fingers in the material and brought it down over her breasts. He never lost eye contact. When the nightgown hit the floor he knelt down on his knees and slid the panties off her. “I am to bathe you, Diana. Nothing more. Though I wouldn’t mind tasting what Sheridan has already tasted. But that is up to you.” He waited for her words. “I will not go into a marriage after I’ve had sex with the best man.” Her words were final. “Then let me bathe you.” He took her hand in his and led her to the bathroom. Trevor began running the water and looked deeply into Diana’s eyes. She calmed immediately. He pulled a container out of his pocket and sprinkled some of the powder from it into the bathtub. It no longer seemed to matter that she was naked, or this gorgeous man would be touching her body. Just preparation. Her wedding day. Diana stepped into the tub and sat down. The water was warm against her skin, and she sighed. Trevor took the bath sponge and dipped it in the water. He let the water trickle down her throat and her breasts. Diana’s nipples peaked in response. Trevor soaped his hands and began washing. His fingers plucked at her nipples while he ran his hot, soapy hands over her. She arched up, unable to help herself. It felt so good. He ran his hands down lower over her 41

What He Wants

stomach and soaped her abdomen. Her stomach muscles clenched, and her clit twitched. Small pulses of sensation were begging for attention. Trevor moved her forwards and soaped her back and ass. He slid his finger between her ass cheeks and forward until he could slide one finger into her. Diana moaned and spread her legs farther. He took his left hand and reached down beneath her legs. He stroked her clit with his finger. His right hand moved against her as his fingers began to thrust into her. Diana trembled in the water as she felt Trevor’s hands work her body into a frenzy. When she thought she couldn’t stand another minute of it, he reached down and nipped at her throat. Her body jerked, and she felt liquid heat rush through her body. Her hands clenched his arms as she worked her body with the orgasm. It felt like it went on forever. Diana opened her eyes slowly and peeled her tongue off the roof of her mouth. Impossible. Her body was already revving up for round two. Oh hell. She tried to sit up and move Trevor’s hands. He simply watched her struggle. Diana slapped him across his bare chest and snapped her fingers. “Dammit all to hell! What in the fuck do you think you’re doing?” “Pleasuring you. It was Sheridan’s wish. And now I’ve complied. Were you not pleased?” Her clit was throbbing again, and she refused to dignify his words with an answer. Her nipples were still taut and ached for more touching. “That was nice.” She stood and snatched a towel off the bar. “But I think we’ve played enough for now.” 42

What He Wants

“Do you not want me?” Trevor stood and moved closer. “I can pleasure you with my mouth, my hands, my cock.” He pressed himself closer to her. Diana took a deep breath and stepped back. It was one of the hardest things she ever had to do. She wanted to fuck Trevor. Long. Hard. And every which way she could wrap herself around him. She was still wet between her legs. She wanted to put her thighs on his shoulders and make him fuck her with his tongue. Diana shuddered as raw heat swept through her. She deliberately took another step back, aware the only thing between her pussy and his cock was a towel and his pants. She held up her hands. “What else?” she managed. “What else are you supposed to do to me?” “Anything you want. Anything at all.” She pulled a sheet around her and looked at the halfnaked attractive man in front of her. “Sheridan sent you? You’re not lying to me?” “I cannot lie.” “Right.” She snorted. “He said that I was your present to do what you wished. I must present you to him in four hours for the ceremony. The time between now and then is ours. If you wish.” Diana felt power streak through her. All the barriers she felt before seemed to have been stripped away. This man would do anything she wanted. He was her gift. What kind of world did she step into? “Okay.” She dropped the sheet and lay on the bed. “Take your clothes off. Now.” Trevor kicked off his shoes and pulled off his socks. He maintained eye contact as he unzipped his pants and slid 43

What He Wants

them down. He didn’t wear underwear. His cock snapped to attention as he looked at her. Diana licked her lips as she looked at Trevor from head to toe. Where did they find these men? And what was wrong with her? Was she so easy, she would fuck anything with a cock? She thought about it for only a second. When she was married to Sheridan, she would be faithful. But for now, she would play. “There is the problem of pregnancy.” “No,” Trevor assured her. “I cannot conceive a child.” “Then get on your knees,” she ordered. “I want your mouth on my pussy.” He fell to his knees immediately and buried his mouth between her legs. His hands clutched her legs as he licked and sucked her folds. God. Diana grabbed the back of his head and ground herself against his mouth. She found her rhythm and lifted her hips to meet his questing tongue. Trevor thrust it inside her and licked her from slit to clit. “Yes,” she moaned. “Lick my pussy. Suck my clit.” Diana arched up against him as her orgasm built. Her legs began to shake as he worked his mouth against her relentlessly. She thrust up against him and cried out as she came. Trevor continued to work his mouth on her aching flesh, and she braced her feet against his shoulders. “No,” she gasped. “I want your cock. Now.” He stood immediately and spread her legs apart. He reached down and ran his thumb over her swollen clit and smiled. “You want me to fuck you?” “Yes.”

44

What He Wants

Trevor slid the tip of his cock into her and pulled it back out. Diana moaned and twitched on the bed as he pushed himself in and pulled himself out slowly. As he pulled himself out, he rolled Diana over quickly. Just as she was getting up on all fours, Trevor spread her legs and thrust deep inside her. She shuddered in ecstasy as he filled her again and again. He leaned over her and whispered in her ear. “Feels good, doesn’t it?” “Mmmmm,” she sighed. “Yes. Give it to me.” Trevor worked his cock into her over and over. He spread her labia with one hand and circled her clit with his fingers. He increased the tempo, and Diana felt herself splintering into a thousand pieces. “Oh God,” she mumbled. He moved back, and Diana rolled over. Her body was still shuddering in bliss. “Have I fulfilled my duty?” Trevor asked. “Yes,” she rasped. “Is this a tradition with your people?” “Yes. I know you do not care for me, but I promised Sheridan I would give you pleasure.” “What kind of family am I marrying into?” “The best,” he flatly stated. “There will be none more loyal to you when you are with child. We take care of our own. You will want for nothing.” “I won’t be needing you after the ceremony.” She looked him in the eye. “You didn’t need me now, Diana.” He smiled. “But it is my pleasure and duty to serve Sheridan.” He paused. “Do not worry so. I know what you meant. And no, I will not be with you again.” Diana looked at her watch. “How many hours until the wedding?” 45

What He Wants

“Two.” Trevor smiled. “Come here,” she ordered. **** Trevor helped Diana dress in her ceremonial gown. The long ivory gown was beaded across the bodice and down the length of the train. It was fitted and had a low neckline. The hips flared softly to the side. Satin slippers were slipped gently onto her feet as Trevor knelt by the bed. Diana smiled as he zipped up the gown, and she stood in front of the mirror. Bought and paid for. The smile slipped for a minute before she could stop it. She was an adult. She made a decision. And she was sticking to it. She patted Trevor on the top of his head and smiled. And there were perks. For some reason, her sex drive was threatening to consume her. Even after she and Trevor played with each other for hours, she was ready to crawl into Sheridan’s bed. Diana’s mind raced. And she knew exactly what she wanted to do to him. Trevor adjusted all her buttons and smiled at her in the mirror. “I will be back in half an hour to escort you downstairs. Take this time for yourself, Diana.” He walked through her doorway and shut the door behind him. **** Sheridan watched his number one walking toward him. He knew what Trevor and Diana had done. His cock was still throbbing. He felt Diana’s pleasure once again and couldn’t wait to bury himself in her. Trevor stopped in front of Sheridan and lowered his eyes. Sheridan ran his thumb across the man’s lips and brought his fingers to his mouth. His tongue slipped out and licked his thumb. 46

What He Wants

“How did it go? Or need I ask? I can taste her on your lips.” Trevor bowed his head. “I had to calm her down at first. And then I slipped the potion into the bath. She is eagerly awaiting her wedding night, sir.” “And did you enjoy fucking her?” “Yes,” Trevor admitted. “I did.” He paused. “There is one more thing.” “Yes?” “A side effect.” Trevor grinned. “And what would that be?” “She’s a little domineering.” “Have you on your knees, did she?” Sheridan smiled. “Good. By the time I administer the other part of the potion, she’ll be out of control. Her body will accept my seed, and she will conceive my son.” He patted his friend on the back. “You’ve done well, Trevor. Now let’s wait in the library for my bride-to-be.” **** Diana checked her clock for the third time. She was going to be married in less than ten minutes. She paced back and forth, the train of her dress swooshing from side to side. For some reason, her mind wasn’t on the ceremony but the wedding night. Sheridan. Her mouth watered simply thinking about him. Her time with Trevor was nice, but she hungered for his boss. And he was going to be all hers. She smiled and thought of everything she wanted to do with him. Her eyes glazed over, and she stared into space. A knock on the door brought her out of her reverie, and she focused her eyes again. The door opened, and Trevor stepped inside. He smiled at her and held out his 47

What He Wants

hand. Diana walked over to him and threaded her arm through his. She was going to be married.

48

What He Wants

Chapter 5 Everyone was waiting in the library. Miles opened the door for her, and she smiled at him. For the first time, he smiled back at her. Diana glanced to the makeshift altar and devoured Sheridan. His black tuxedo was tailored perfectly to his body. Her eyes moved over him, and she prayed for the ceremony to be done quickly. Her blood was heating once again, and she was having problems concentrating. There was no music, and the only people in the room were the preacher, the three men, and Diana. She looked up at the man performing the ceremony and nodded. He nodded back at her and studied her closely. He was old. Ancient. His gnarled hands clutched the black book tightly as his gaze swept over the people in the room. “I am here to join these two people in marriage. Does anyone object?” No sounds were forthcoming. He smiled at the two people in front of him. His blue-eyed gaze fell on Diana again. “Diana Stafford, do you take Sheridan as a partner? Will you be loyal and true to him and his family?” “I will.” Her voice trembled slightly. “And Sheridan.” He looked over. “Will you receive this woman into your home, your life, and be true to her?” “I will.” Sheridan smiled down at Diana. 49

What He Wants

The old man put the book down and grabbed Diana and Sheridan’s hands. He put them together and closed his eyes. He spoke words Diana didn’t understand, but there was a beauty to them. She found herself hanging on the words and waiting for the next one. Utterly beautiful. She would have to ask Sheridan later what they meant. After five minutes, the old man let go of their hands and clapped his together. “It is now done. And it will not be undone.” He walked out from behind the altar and kissed Diana softly on one cheek and then the other. “Remember,” he whispered, “look inside when all seems lost.” His breath fanned on her ear, and she was uncertain what she heard at first. When she tried to catch his attention again, he was already leaving the room. Miles handed him his hat and scarf, and he was gone. Trevor came to Diana and also kissed both her cheeks. She felt no warming of the blood and briefly wondered if the afternoon was a dream. But when she turned to Sheridan again, it was all she could do not to wrap her legs around him. His dark, knowing gaze devoured her. He brought his hand up and brushed his fingers across her lips. “You are mine, Diana. You are mine.” Her knees quivered in response. She briefly wondered whether they were going to have a honeymoon when Trevor spoke up. “The house is prepared. You will leave by carriage in ten minutes. Be well.” He turned and left the room. Diana studied Sheridan. Her mouth was dry, and she licked her lips. His gaze fastened on her mouth, and he groaned. “Soon.” He promised. “Soon I’ll give your mouth and body what you want so badly.” His hand caressed her belly 50

What He Wants

through the wedding gown. “And you will give me what I desire.” Miles walked over to Diana and kissed one cheek softly and then the other. “Be well.” He smiled and turned to go. “I’ll be damned,” Sheridan muttered. “What?” “I believe Miles is sweet on you. He barely tolerates mor…” he trailed off. “Women. He doesn’t much care for women.” “You’re rather odd.” Diana smiled up at her new husband. “But I suppose it’s something I’ll grow used to.” “Yes.” Sheridan tried to smile. “I suppose you will.” He picked up a glass full of champagne and handed it to her. “To us, Diana. To a family. And to two wonderful weeks.” Diana blushed. “I suppose you’re referring to the nonstop sex part.” “The better to have children, my dear.” He picked up his own glass and clinked it against hers. “To an heir.” Diana inclined her head and drank. She was growing more nervous by the minute. The weight of her decisions began to bear down on her. She had irrevocably altered her life. Nothing she did from this point on would ever be the same. Sheridan brought out a piece of paper and showed it to Diana. “This is our arrangement on paper. I only need you to list your account number and to sign it. I will take care of everything else.” Diana scribbled her name and account number on the paper. Her mind was on Sheridan. Right now she could give a shit about money. Her body wanted the man in front of her. Now. “Patience.” He kissed the side of her mouth. “We have two weeks to indulge ourselves. No interruptions.” 51

What He Wants

Sheridan rolled up the piece of paper and tucked it into his jacket pocket. Miles opened the door and announced the carriage arrived. Diana frowned. “Are my clothes packed?” “Everything you need is already packed. I’ve made sure of it.” She turned and walked out the door. Trevor was waiting by the front door with a glass rose in his hand. “For the lady of the house.” He smiled and bowed. “A rose that will never die.” Diana took the rose and smiled down at Trevor. “You’re too kind, Trevor. Thank you.” She waited for Sheridan to catch up with her. She spun back around and noticed he handed Miles the agreement paper. He spoke in low tones so she couldn’t hear the words, but Miles appeared displeased. She wondered what they were talking about. “Diana. If ever you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask,” Trevor broke into her thoughts. She turned once again to study Sheridan’s friend. She was about to ask him a question when Sheridan looped his arm through hers and practically dragged her out to the carriage. He helped her up and climbed in beside her. He rapped twice on the roof, and they left. Sheridan was frowning. “What’s wrong?” Diana asked. “What?” “What is wrong?” she repeated. “Nothing.” He smiled at her. “Nothing at all. Everything is fine. Don’t worry.” “Are you trying to convince me or yourself?”

52

What He Wants

Sheridan sighed. “Diana. Nothing is wrong. Everything is going exactly as planned. I am simply ready to be alone with you. Don’t you feel the same?” “Nice way to turn things around,” she muttered. “Yes. I’m ready to be alone with you. This has been one whirlwind affair, though. My head is spinning.” He cupped her cheek and brought her mouth to his. “Trust me,” he whispered against her mouth. “I promise I will do everything in my power to make you happy.” They rode in silence for ten more minutes, and Diana felt the carriage jolt to a stop. Sheridan stepped out of the carriage and reached in to help her down. Diana stepped out and looked in wonder at the scene before her. Fairy tale. Just like a fairy tale. Her eyes took in the scene before her with disbelief. The house was a cottage nestled among the trees and flowers. If Snow White or the dwarfs didn’t come out the front door, she would be amazed. It was beyond beautiful. Beyond magnificent. It was a dream. A path of rose petals led straight to the front door. Diana studied the house in awe. It was a small house with white walls and a slate gray roof. Roses twined up the sides and hugged the house from every conceivable direction. The front door was wood and had symbols etched on it. Diana moved forward and traced the letters with her fingers. They calmed her somehow. Sheridan walked up behind her and touched the letters also. “This cottage has been in my family for centuries. I hope you will be comfortable here.” He turned the doorknob and pushed the door open. The inside of the cottage was entirely furnished in light wood. Each piece of furniture was hand carved. The living room table was furnished with wooden dishes and utensils. 53

What He Wants

Two large wooden cups sat in the middle. Diana moved forward and touched it all. The wood was smooth. Perfect. There were no knots and every piece went with the grain of the wood. “It’s amazing,” she said. “I’m glad you are pleased.” Sheridan shut the door behind him, locked it, and shoved the key underneath to the outside doormat. Diana blinked twice before her brain realized what he had done. “What in the fuck did you just do?” she yelled, running toward the front door. She looked around quickly to see what would fit so she could get a hold of the key. “Calm down.” Sheridan walked over and chuckled. “Someone will be back to open the door in two weeks.” Diana turned around and looked him in the eye. “I don’t have any idea what in the hell possessed you to do something so stupid. But rest assured, I am not putting up with it. I want that damn key now!” “That isn’t happening, Diana.” He studied her calmly. “Don’t you want to explore the cottage? Look at the rooms?” He reached out to stroke her breast. “Find someplace we can be together?” She brushed his hand away from her. “Right now, I’m pissed. I cannot believe you would be such an idiot as to do what you just did. What happens if we have to leave? What if there’s a fire?” “There will be no fire except the one between us,” he assured her. His eyes darkened, and Diana felt herself falling. “Let us drink a toast to our union. It will benefit us both.” He picked up the two wooden goblets without breaking eye contact. “To us.” He took a deep drink and 54

What He Wants

willed Diana to do the same. Sheridan could see the struggle in her. She was furious. And that anger was preventing him from having complete control of her emotions. He pushed a little farther and smiled when she at last brought the cup to her lips. Diana drank deeply, and Sheridan took the goblet from her hand. He waited until the warmth spread through her body. In a few minutes, she would not be able to control herself, and his body tightened in anticipation. He would bury his cock in her tight body over and over again until his son was conceived. The thought made his cock twitch in his pants. He stroked himself through his pants. When she was ready, it would be quick at first. And he didn’t want to waste any opportunity to impregnate her. She was the only hope for his line to continue. She began to breathe more rapidly. Diana closed her eyes as her body arched. She was so hot. Her nipples tightened, and she moaned in bliss. Oh yes. Sheridan moved closer and lifted her gown up. His hands sought out her wet pussy, and he eased his fingers inside her. She was ready. He undid his pants and slipped them around his ankles. He stroked his cock while he watched her spread her legs. “Ohhh,” she moaned. Her hands went to her pussy, but Sheridan held them back. “Tell me what you want,” he said. “Fuck,” she managed. “Please.” Sheridan moved closer and pressed the tip of his cock to her opening. “Tell me.” Diana pushed herself down on him, and Sheridan thrust into her repeatedly. He let go of her hands, and she clawed at his back through his clothes. It was raw sex. She didn’t 55

What He Wants

want any niceties. She wanted to feel Sheridan deep inside her. She needed to fuck until her body convulsed. Sheridan worked his body against hers until he felt Diana begin to shake. He plunged into her repeatedly, focused on giving Diana what she wanted so badly. She screamed as she came. Her body tightened around Sheridan, and he let himself come deep inside her. They were both breathing hard, and Diana cracked her eyes open. “I need water.” “Your wish.” Sheridan moved away from her and pulled his pants up. He looked up to see Diana watching him. “What?” “You might want to take those off. I’m not finished with you yet.” Sheridan turned before Diana could see the pleased smile crease his face. Everything was going according to plan. He walked into the kitchen and poured Diana some water. He turned to watch her strip out of her wedding gown and lay it lovingly on the loveseat behind her. Diana took a deep breath and looked around. There was a light floral smell permeating the air. She sighed in bliss. This cottage was exactly what she wanted for a honeymoon. There was something she was forgetting. She frowned and tried to remember, but it wouldn’t come to her. Maybe later. Sheridan put his arm around her and escorted her to the back of the cabin. He opened the last door on the right and scooped Diana up into his arms. He carried her over the threshold, and she smiled. Her lips skimmed his throat, and she nipped at him lightly. The taste of him woke the hunger in her again, and she closed her eyes in agony. The fire, which consumed her 56

What He Wants

earlier was back, and she needed Sheridan. Now. She didn’t even get the words out before he let her slide out of his arms and down his body. Diana bit her lip as her body raged. Her control was slipping. Every cell in her body demanded satisfaction. Sheridan watched her silently until she opened her eyes. And then she pounced. **** Sheridan bit back his groan and opened his eyes. He ached in several places. There were bite marks and bruises all over his body. Diana was insatiable. He glanced over at her and prayed he wouldn’t wake her up. Halfway through his honeymoon, and he didn’t know if he had the stamina to keep up. Maybe he would partake of the potion, also. He studied her in her sleep. So peaceful. But she was not pregnant yet. He would know. He would feel the life growing inside his new bride. Something was wrong. He feared his time was running out. What was he going to do then? He made up his mind and eased out of the bed without moving the mattress. If she would only stay asleep for another ten minutes or so, they would be on an even playing field. He padded softly into the kitchen and poured himself a drink. The slightly fruity smell made his nostrils flare. Just smelling the elixir was rousing his cock. His mouth watered as he brought the goblet to his lips. Sheridan had one week to impregnate his bride. One week to continue his line. He drained the goblet and set it down. The effect was immediate. He smiled. The bruises and bites would be worth it. Everything was worth it. He 57

What He Wants

cupped his balls in one hand and stroked his dick up and down with the other. He knew the perfect way to wake his bride. **** Diana purred in her sleep. A tongue flicked against her pussy, and she spread her legs further. The sensations jolted through her, and she shifted again. She ran her hands down her body and cupped her breasts in her hands. She tweaked the nipples and slid her knees up so the person would have better access. She opened her eyes slowly and looked down to see the top of Sheridan’s head buried between her legs. She moved her hips up to meet his tongue and grabbed the back of his head with one of her hands. She kept him there while she fucked his mouth in ecstasy. Diana bucked up against him again and felt her clit explode with pleasure. It convulsed rapidly, and she kept Sheridan’s mouth there until she was done. He looked up and licked his lips. Diana didn’t have a chance to say anything before he buried himself deep inside her. She cried out as she wrapped her legs around him. “I love the way you taste,” Sheridan whispered in her ear. “I love the feel of your hot cunt grabbing my cock and fucking me. I love the way your clit feels on my tongue when you come.” Diana writhed on the bed as Sheridan’s words washed over her. The desire came as it always did. Hot. Fast. Consuming. She bucked up against him, wanting him deeper. Harder. The hunger raged through them both. She clawed at his back and bucked her body against his. It was never close enough. Sheridan pistoned in and out of her, and she shuddered in sheer bliss at the savage onslaught. Her body craved his. Hungered for his body bearing down on hers. Diana felt the 58

What He Wants

pressure increase in her body, and she arched up again and came with a scream. Her mind went black and fuzzy for a minute. When she opened her eyes, Sheridan was watching her. She reached out and touched his silky, black hair and smiled. Her husband. Diana’s sexual appetite receded, and she sighed in contentment. Sheridan lay down next to her and stroked her back softly. “Diana.” “Hmm?” she mumbled. “We have less than a week for you to become pregnant.” “The way we’re going, I would be surprised if I wasn’t already.” “But you’re not.” Sheridan stood up from the bed and pulled on a robe. He looked down at her, all soft and sleepy on the bed, and scowled. “You’re not. And I need you to be.” Diana sat up and looked closely at him. “You need to simmer down, big boy. I’m not the one doing the impregnating here. And how in the world do you know if I’m pregnant or not? Don’t you think I would know first?” Sheridan tossed his head back. “I will know first. Then I will inform you.” She blew out a breath and stood up. She yanked her arms through the sleeves of her robe and belted it. “We are stuck for one more week in this cabin because you had the bright idea to shove the key back under the door. Take your indignant shit and file it.” Diana stomped through the bedroom door and into the living room. Sheridan cursed aloud. Son of a bitch. He had forgotten what a pain in the ass mortal females were. This woman was an incubator. Nothing more. He fought down the 59

What He Wants

emotions that were tied to her. He would cut her loose and be done. His heir was the only important thing in his life. The mortal would never fit in. Never. When he bonded with her, he didn’t realize the full import of what he had done. Now he was married. And he could never be divorced. He doomed them both to a loveless life. Sheridan hit the wall of the bedroom and hung his head. The pain radiating through his fist didn’t help. It only reminded him there would be more pain before this deal was done.

60

What He Wants

Chapter 6 Diana was pacing by the living room windows when he walked out of the bedroom. Her hair was mussed, and she nursed the cup in her hand like it had all the answers in her world. Sheridan calmed himself and tried to think of a way to fix this mess he created. His hormones were simmering right now. One small thought of sex, and he would be inside Diana within seconds. He centered himself and considered the possibilities. What could he say to this woman to try and explain his world? His life? His need for this baby? Diana felt Sheridan’s gaze on her, but she would not make it easy for him. What was wrong? Hadn’t she done everything in her power to assure him of the precious heir he wanted? It wasn’t like it was a hardship. She sipped her coffee and kept her place at the window. Even now, her body was slick with wanting him. It took all her willpower to stay still and let him come to her. “Diana.” His voice was strained. “Yes?” She didn’t turn around. “I know you don’t understand the importance of this baby for me. But right now, he is everything. And it is tradition for the child to be conceived during this two week interval.” “That’s all well and good, Sheridan. But as I explained earlier, I am not the one who is in charge of that. 61

What He Wants

Remember?” She turned to look at the magnificent man behind her. Her blue eyes watched him carefully. “I suppose the deal is off if I don’t conceive within this timeframe?” Sheridan closed his eyes as if in pain. “Such an occurrence would be devastating,” he said. “I do not know what I would do.” Diana took a deep breath and inhaled the light floral fragrance the flowers brought. It calmed her. She touched the side of the window and looked outside. “I would love to see the gardens. Would that be possible after our two weeks are over? Is this part of your land?” “It’s my land,” he stated proudly. “My ancestors have lived on it for centuries.” He walked up behind Diana and looked over her shoulder. “The gardens are exquisite. I am sure we will have time to look at them before we leave here.” Sheridan placed his hands on Diana’s shoulders, and she leaned back into him. Feelings rose up in him that he didn’t recognize. There was lust and hope. He recognized those. But other things were confusing him. Making him uncomfortable. He stroked Diana’s red hair lightly and curled a piece around his finger. She wasn’t a mousy redhead. He would have to correct Trevor. Her hair was beautiful in the early morning light. Even the reflection off the windowpane made her hair glow. Diana sighed and put her hand on top of his. This was nice. Their sex marathon took a lot out of her. She hadn’t known she was capable of such depths of passion before this man. And now what? Would her life be as wonderful as he predicted? She sipped her coffee and pondered the possibilities. What if she didn’t become pregnant?

62

What He Wants

“Quit worrying,” Sheridan said against her hair. “You’re right. I simply think we have been in too much of a hurry. You cannot rush these things.” “Okay. Then what do you suppose we do?” “Eat.” “Pardon me?” “I will make you dinner this evening. Until that time, we will talk.” “Talk?” Diana spun around and looked into her husband’s dark eyes. “Are you sure?” Sheridan inhaled deeply of Diana’s soft fragrance and fought for control of his growing libido. Right now he wanted to throw her down on the table and bury himself inside her. He clenched his fists and thought of everything but Diana beneath him. “Yes,” he rasped. “Talk. We can do that. Can’t we?” Diana shook her head slowly. She could count on one hand the times they had talked. And those times usually ended up with her on her back. “I suppose.” Sheridan stepped back and toward the kitchen. “I will make sandwiches for lunch. And then you will relax while I make dinner.” “You can cook?” she teased. “Yes.” He smiled. “My mother made sure I had that ability.” Diana hesitated for a minute before she asked. “What happened to your parents, Sheridan?” “They are gone.” His voice was so flat she knew it pained him. “I’m sorry,” she began. “Don’t be. It is what was necessary.” He took the container of rare roast beef out of the refrigerator and proceeded to make sandwiches. 63

What He Wants

Diana watched his swift, capable movements washing the lettuce and thought of his hands on her body. Her tongue snuck out and lipped her lips. Even now she wanted him. She watched as his grip faltered for a minute on the knife he was using to cut the tomatoes. “What else would you like to talk about?” She sat on the sofa in the living room and thought about it. Sheridan was a mystery to her. She knew so little about him, she didn’t know where to start. “Will we have more children?” The knife he was using clanged noisily in the sink. He turned to study Diana slowly. If she were of his people, then it would be assured she would have at least two children. But she was mortal. And he had no use for more than the prescribed heir. If he had to keep her for more than nine months, he would never be able to let her go. His people would not be happy. “If it is to be,” he assured her, “it will be.” Sheridan brought the plate to Diana, and she thanked him. He sat down beside her, and they ate in silence. Each was engrossed in their own thoughts. “Is there anything else to do here?” Diana asked. “Or is this simply the baby making place?” He studied her. “This place is sacred, Diana. Generations of new lives have been conceived here. I was conceived here. As were Trevor and Miles.” “Miles?” Diana asked, eyes big. “Yes. His family has served mine since the beginning. He has kept track of me for years.” “I bet that’s a full-time job.” “Perhaps.” Sheridan smiled. “I did have a penchant for getting into trouble. Pushing the boundaries and such.” 64

What He Wants

“Did?” Diana snickered. “Right. You might want to push that verb into present tense.” She took a bite of her sandwich and studied Sheridan closely. “Tell me more about your ancestors.” He set his plate down and tilted his head to the side. “My family has roots as deep as the trees outside. They have lived and loved on this land for centuries. All their hopes and dreams live here.” “Is it hard?” “What?” “Is it hard?” Diana prodded. “You know. Having all that on your shoulders. It must be difficult. Not to mention having to advertise for a bride. I still don’t understand all of that.” “I did not ‘advertise’ as you so put it.” Sheridan frowned. “I simply presented an opportunity to businessminded women.” “How politically correct.” Diana snorted. “You advertised and paid for a bride. And here I am.” Sheridan sighed and stood up. He began pacing the floor. “I need you to understand something, Diana. I knew what I was looking for in a mate. I did not know anybody of the caliber I was searching for. I was at a loss. Trevor suggested the paper.” Diana nodded. “Tell me about Trevor.” Sheridan’s eyes narrowed. “What do you want to know? You are mine, Diana. He will not have you again.” Jealousy flared deep in his gut. “I don’t understand you two. You are like brothers to an extent. But he is subservient to you. And,” she informed him, “he wouldn’t have ‘had’ me the first time if I didn’t want him to.” She looked at Sheridan. “Why did you send him to me?” 65

What He Wants

“It is tradition,” Sheridan explained. “Trevor is more than a brother to me. What’s mine is his until my wedding. We shared everything.” “Everything?” she queried. Diana’s blue eyes grew round. “So you two have shared women before?” “Yes.” She licked her lips as thoughts of being with both men flitted through her mind. It was the gift that kept on giving, she was sure. “Stop.” Sheridan smiled. “You cannot even be thinking about that. You are my bride. Trevor will be no more than a brother to you now.” “And an uncle to this baby.” “Yes. An uncle to the heir.” Diana stood and walked into the kitchen. She set her plate in the sink and turned to study her husband. He was a fascinating man. But she always felt like he was holding something back from her. He kept himself closed off. Sheridan would only let her see what he wanted her to see. “Diana.” Sheridan stood and walked into the kitchen. “This is our honeymoon. Let me love you.” He guided her gently to their bed and removed her robe. Sheridan knelt at the foot of the bed and smoothed his hands over her feet. Diana watched him through half-lidded eyes. He brought his hands over her ankles and gently massaged them. She smiled and let her body relax. It felt so good. Sheridan moved slowly up her legs to her knees. He spent time touching her legs and raining down kisses on her smooth skin. He licked her toe playfully, and she giggled. It couldn’t be helped. She was slightly ticklish. Diana watched as Sheridan moved slowly to her thighs and stroked them with his strong hands. He massaged both 66

What He Wants

legs and moved back down to her ankles. He nipped on the inside of both of them, and Diana jerked. He looked up at her and grinned. Sheridan ran his hands along the outside of her legs and kissed his way up to her knees. He bent one leg, and then the other, and licked the underside of her knees. Diana bit back a moan. No one had ever touched her like this. And certainly not Sheridan. They were more likely to simply screw and be done. He moved up to her hip and gently kissed it. He rubbed his chin across her stomach, and she sighed. Her stomach clenched as Sheridan eased his body next to hers while he was still touching her everywhere. His thumbs traced her ribs, and he nipped gently at her belly button. Diana closed her eyes and simply felt. Sheridan touched each part of her body with his mouth. He licked and sucked gently until Diana wasn’t sure exactly where he was. It felt like he was everywhere. His hands stroked her flesh until she was sure she would explode. Her clit ached from wanting him. Moisture slid down her inner thigh, and she knew she couldn’t take much more of this. “Sheridan,” she moaned. Diana opened her eyes slowly and looked into his. “Please.” He nuzzled her neck gently and tasted her skin. He licked her sensitive area and smiled when her whole body jerked. She was almost ready. Sheridan eased his body on top of hers but didn’t push himself inside. Diana was struggling to move so she would welcome him, but he had other plans. Moving slowly, he pushed his body against hers but not into hers. She spread her legs and felt Sheridan’s cock rubbing against her swollen clit. It was sweet torture. Diana knew she would come quickly. Her body was ready. 67

What He Wants

Sheridan seemed to sense a change in her body because he slipped farther down and into her with one stroke. Diana sobbed his name as he began moving gently into her. His strokes were long and slow. He would move into her completely, then pull out to the tip of his cock. The rhythm was measured and deliberate. He seemed to know exactly what he wanted. He licked her nipples and sucked them tenderly while he moved in and out of her. Her body started shaking, and she felt a yearning so deep, she couldn’t stop the flow of tears that cascaded down her face. Everything she was, everything she wanted, was wrapped up in this moment. She looked up at Sheridan, and he watched her. His thumbs moved over her cheeks to wipe away the tears. The trembling increased and her hands locked on his wrists. Sheridan moved a little quicker, and Diana’s breath caught. Her eyes opened wide as her orgasm started. Sheridan bit his lip to keep control as Diana’s body erupted around his. She sobbed out his name as she came over and over again. And when she thought she couldn’t take it any more, he showed her she could. He moved his body down on top of hers and rubbed himself against her. Diana wrapped her legs tightly around him and welcomed him deeper inside of her. Her body was slick and inviting. Sheridan moved his head by hers and inhaled her fragrance. The light scent stirred him, and he quickened his strokes inside her. Diana’s nails scraped over his back, and he reveled in the small pain. Her pleasure was something he could taste. And he wanted to give her more. “Come for me, Diana,” he whispered against her soft hair. “Come for me.” 68

What He Wants

She gasped as he filled her, and climaxed so fiercely, she lost consciousness. Sheridan filled her with his seed and kissed her brow gently. He needed rest as badly as she. He was spent. Pulling the covers over them both, he kissed Diana’s lips softly and dozed off. **** Birds were singing. Diana opened one eye blearily and looked around. She blinked rapidly until everything came into focus. A smile stretched across her lips. My, but Sheridan was good in bed. Her body never experienced anything like what he’d given her. Diana stretched luxuriously and lay back on the bed. Where was her lovely husband anyway? Sheridan walked through the doorway with a wooden tray filled with all kinds of goodies on it. Pancakes, bacon, and eggs were piled high on two plates. Diana inhaled deeply, and her mouth watered. She sat up against the headboard and grinned. “You shouldn’t have, but I’m glad you did. I didn’t have it in me to cook.” “My pleasure.” He smiled down at her. “You have to keep up your strength.” He placed the tray over her lap and walked around to the other side of the bed and sat down. “Aren’t you eating?” “I’m fine,” he assured her. “I ate a little while ago. I made this for you.” “It’s wonderful.” Diana forked a piece of egg and brought it to her mouth. She closed her eyes and smiled. “Delicious. Thank you.” “You’re quite welcome.” Sheridan watched her finish most of the food and pointed out she had two pancakes left. 69

What He Wants

“You’re joking, right?” She laughed. “I had four to begin with. There is no way I can eat two more. You have to eat them.” “You’re eating for two, Diana.” Diana’s head shot up, and she frowned. “How do you know that?” “I know.” He smiled smugly. “Really?” Her hands instinctively went to her flat stomach, and she grinned. “I guess we’ll find out for sure when we leave here, won’t we?” “Yes. But I am sure you are pregnant with my son. And I could not be more pleased.” Diana laughed. “Your son? Already he starts with the ‘my son’ stuff.” She threw up her hands, grinning. “I should have known. What is it with men and their sons? Good grief! It’s not like you could have done this by yourself.” Sheridan inclined his head. “You’re right. Let me clean up the breakfast dishes, and we will talk some more.” She watched him gather the tray and leave. Her hands went back down to her stomach, and she sighed. A baby. What a wondrous thing. Her motherly instincts kicked in, and she smiled. It couldn’t get much better. Sheridan returned and sat down on the edge of the bed. Last night’s festivities ran through Diana’s head, and she grinned. They still had six more days here. She wondered what other things he would have planned. “We must talk,” he began. She rolled her eyes and grinned. “Okay.” “There are things which must be said and understood.” Diana felt a chill race up her spine. She fought down the shiver. What was Sheridan saying? “I will name the baby.” “And what will you name him?” Diana scowled. 70

What He Wants

“His name is Rory.” She nodded her head. “I like it. What else?” “Any time you leave the house, you will be escorted by Trevor. I do not want my son or wife to be unattended if something happens.” “Also not a problem. I’m sure Trevor will be ready to pull his hair out, but he’ll live. And?” “And there will be no more physical relations between us.”

71

What He Wants

Chapter 7 “What?” “You and I will no longer be able to have sex.” Diana jumped up from the bed and glared down at Sheridan. Sparks were flying from her eyes. “Oh. I get it. Once the seed is planted, you don’t want to play in the garden anymore. How nice. And what about my thoughts on this? Because I have plenty.” Sheridan sighed and ran his hands through his hair. “Diana. Please understand. It’s simply precautionary. I don’t want anything to happen to you or the baby.” “Fine,” she snipped. “I’m sure I’ll be able to satisfy myself.” She spun around and marched out the bedroom doorway. He reached out to touch her mind but drew back instantly. She was furious. And hurt. A deadly combination in mortals. They couldn’t seem to see to the future. She was upset. Okay, she was livid. Sheridan grimaced as her thoughts slammed into him. He was apparently a sorry bastard who didn’t know his ass from his elbow. His ancestry took a few more hits before he stood and walked into the front room. Diana was pacing by the window. Her hands were wrapped protectively around her stomach, and she was scowling. She felt Sheridan enter the room but didn’t even turn to acknowledge him. Her blood was boiling. She 72

What He Wants

didn’t understand how he could be so hot-blooded and cold-blooded at the same time. Images of their sexual escapades danced behind her eyes. Playtime must be over, she inwardly sighed. So much for that. Diana quit pacing and stood still. She looked out at the beautiful day and knew she well and truly screwed herself over. A loveless marriage. A child she wasn’t halfready for. And a husband who would not be touching her again for a very long time, if ever. “Will you ever touch me again?” she queried. Sheridan moved swiftly to her and pulled her gently back against his chest. His lips moved against her hair, and she fought back the rising desire. His mere presence was enough to have her wet and wanting to arch herself against him. “There are more things than sex we can do, Diana. It’s not the end of the world.” Diana turned and smiled tightly at her husband. She honestly didn’t know what she expected. She was knockedup. Her part of the bargain had been kept. What did Sheridan care now? In nine months, he would have everything he ever wanted. “Silly me.” She inclined her head. “I’m rather tired. I believe I’ll take a nap.” Diana moved away from Sheridan swiftly and walked back into the bedroom. Her stride was stiff and unyielding. What did he care? Sheridan thought of the possible outcomes and knew this was the best one. Diana would bear his son. And then she would go away and never remember. It was exactly what he wanted. Wasn’t it? **** Sheridan and Diana spent the rest of the week walking cautiously around each other. They were polite to the point 73

What He Wants

of coolness with every gesture and word. Trevor came on the appointed day and unlocked the cottage door. Diana was already waiting. She nodded politely and walked outside. “She’s pregnant.” Trevor smiled at Sheridan. “All will be well.” “Diana carries my son. And I’ve explained the rules to her. But she seems to be unhappy.” “It is not for her happiness that we must do this.” Trevor reminded him. “She is nothing but the carrier. When all is done, you can set her free. She will never remember this place or this time.” “You don’t know!” Sheridan’s anguished cry surprised both him and Trevor. He breathed slowly and tried to focus his thoughts. All the turmoil and indecision funneled through to Trevor. Trevor’s eyes widened as he felt all that Sheridan did. “It will be hard, but you can do it. You must. Our people will take precedence over this mortal woman. You knew the rules.” “Fuck the rules,” Sheridan said crassly. “I know what I have to do. It’s been drummed into me since childhood. I am the chosen one. I will have the heir who will bring peace between mortals and Spardens. Our races will blend and strengthen each other. It doesn’t make it any easier.” He stomped out the front door. Diana took the path to the right and walked leisurely toward the center of the flowers. There was a large clearing where all the foliage seemed to surround and embrace the stones around them. She inhaled the sweet fragrance and let her hands drift to the petals. Diana ran her fingers softly over the delicate buds and sighed. The silkiness felt so right against her fingers. 74

What He Wants

The circle was small, perhaps only nine square feet. She walked to the center and threw her hands up. The sun flowed down on her, and she sighed in complete release and pleasure. She wished she were a flower. Left alone. Growing where she wanted. Soaking up the sun and belonging somewhere. Her hands wrapped around her stomach again, and for a moment, she felt one with her child. The birds’ song was clearer. The sun was brighter. Diana placed her hands on her stomach and stood still. Sheridan was coming. She could hear his footsteps on the path. Diana opened her eyes again and waited for him to arrive. Five minutes later, she was still staring at the foot trail when he rounded the corner. “There you are.” He smiled at Diana. “Did you already come this way once?” she asked. “No. I’ve only arrived.” Her puzzlement was obvious. “Why do you ask?” Sheridan looked closely at her. Diana braced herself and looked him in the eye. “No reason. Shall we return to the house?” She sidestepped him and began walking back toward the cottage. Sheridan frowned at her abrupt tone. Something changed. Diana was somehow different to him. He probed further but met a brick wall. Her anger must be shielding her. He would work on getting her defenses down. He would need to know her every move. **** Miles opened the front door and escorted Diana inside. He bent to kiss one cheek and then the other. She smiled up at him, and he blushed. Sheridan watched in disbelief as Miles took Diana’s hand and ushered her upstairs to her room. 75

What He Wants

Sheridan waited for Miles to come back down before he questioned him. “What are you doing?” “I was escorting the lady to her room.” Miles looked down his nose at Sheridan. “She is tired. I felt her weariness.” “She sleeps in my room.” Sheridan growled. “She is my wife.” “She is your uterus.” Miles spun on his heels and walked toward the kitchen. Trevor’s laugh was loud and grated on Sheridan’s last nerve. “What in the fuck do you think is so funny?” he demanded as he glared at his friend. His dark eyes flashed. Trevor held up his hand. “I believe Miles has developed a soft spot for your bride.” “Damn it! I will not have it.” Sheridan turned to walk after Miles, but Trevor’s hand stopped him. “Don’t. Let Miles care for the mortal woman. He knows what will happen. Let him have this. It’s not every day the heir to our people is conceived.” Sheridan’s shoulders slumped. He blew out a breath and focused his thoughts. Trevor was right. Diana would need to be coddled and pampered while she was here and carrying his son. He would deal with Miles when the time came. “It won’t be easy,” Trevor reminded him. “You are still bonded to her. All that was before is no longer. Both of your aches will continue.” “It will be a very long nine months.” Sheridan inclined his head toward his friend and walked to his room. **** 76

What He Wants

Diana settled back into her bedroom and lay back on her bed. Sheridan disrupted her thoughts even when he wasn’t in the same room. She thought back over the time they spent in the cottage. Her body arched up once, and she moaned. Diana bit her lip and stood up. She would not be controlled by her sexual urges. Damn him to hell! And now he claimed there would be no sex. For the sake of the baby. Right. Diana was no fool. She knew she served her purpose, and he was done with her. She still felt those urges, but there were ways to get around those. And she would need one tonight. Her hands softly stroked her stomach, and she thought of the baby. What would it be like? What would she feel? She was carrying Sheridan’s baby. The reality slammed into her, and she steadied herself. Her way may have been a little unorthodox, but she would be a good mother. No harm would come to this child. And if Sheridan were a poor father, then she would do everything in her power to protect her son. Diana thought back over Sheridan’s words. He seemed to be absolutely sure of himself. This whole setup was rather odd. There was no menace from him, she simply felt bulldozed. Well that shit was going to cease soon. She would see to it. Diana wouldn’t stand by and be pushed around. She was an equal partner here, and she wasn’t going to let Sheridan forget it. **** Miles smiled at her when she walked into the room for supper. He pulled back the chair and scooted her close to the table. Diana thanked him and looked around. “He will be here directly.” Miles sniffed and walked out of the room. 77

What He Wants

Diana bit back her chuckle and folded her napkin into her lap. Unless she missed her mark, Miles wasn’t too happy with Sheridan right now, either. Good. She felt him before she saw him. Her back stiffened perceptibly as he entered the room. “I wasn’t sure if we’d be dining together.” Diana glanced over at Sheridan. He simply nodded and sat down. She tried not to think of him. But she couldn’t seem to help herself. Thoughts of his body next to hers flooded her mind. Diana squeezed her legs closer and prayed the meal would be a quick one. Sheridan touched her wrist gently, and she glanced up. Such beautiful dark eyes and hair. Her lips parted, and she breathed the scent of him in. Time was inconsequential as she remembered their stay at the cottage. The feel of Sheridan’s body next to hers and his breath on her skin. Her pupils widened as the desire stirred deep within her. He leaned forward and brushed his lips against her cheek. “We can be friends as well as spouses, Diana.” He sat back, and her eyelids fluttered. Confusion was written all over her face. Sheridan only needed to speak her name or touch her for all to be lost. “Let’s put our cards on the table, shall we?” Diana looked deeply into Sheridan’s eyes. “I look at you and want in your pants. You are absolutely beautiful. We’re married. And now that I’m impregnated with the heir to the throne, I’m no longer sexually desirable to you. Color me irritated.” “I’m sorry I did not share this before.” “No. You’re not. There’s a reason you waited so long to tell me. And that’s fine. But at least own up to it.” Diana looked up and smiled at Miles as he brought in the appetizers. 78

What He Wants

Sheridan studied his wife as she thanked Miles and talked with him about the meal. His cock stirred under the table, and he cursed his rules that kept them conjugally separated. He made the rules for her protection, and he would adhere to them. Sheridan’s nostrils flared as Diana’s sweet scent drifted over to him. His mouth literally watered in need. She was so soft. So sweet. Sheridan probed her mind and winced when he received nothing in return. Something was definitely wrong. She was mortal. He had every right to sift through her mind to check her changing moods. His eyes narrowed as he concentrated harder. Miles dropped a fork on the table and broke Sheridan’s concentration. Sheridan scowled as Miles nodded his head and left the room. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t access Diana’s thoughts. What was going on? “Is there anything on your mind?” Diana cocked her head to the side. Sheridan was studying her closely, and she blinked. “There’s nothing I need to share, thanks. I’m fine. We’re fine. And I’d like to eat supper while it’s still hot.” She inclined her head and started putting the spinach crepes on her plate. Her mind was busy with Sheridan while she ate. She would glance at him, only to look away when he looked back. Diana’s nipples hardened as she watched Sheridan fork a bite into his mouth. Her tongue slipped out to lick her lips, and she found it increasingly difficult to sit at the table and not remember how good it felt to fuck Sheridan. Diana hurriedly ate and tried to think of a handy excuse to leave the table immediately. She dabbed her lips with a napkin and turned to look at Sheridan. His eyes watched her with startling intensity. It was if he were trying to look into her very soul. Diana took a drink of her ice water and 79

What He Wants

willed herself to calm down. When she looked back at him, she tried to smile. “I’m a little tired. I think I’ll retire to my room now. Thank you for a lovely dinner.” She pushed back from the table and prayed he would let it go at that. Sheridan stood also and grabbed for her hand. He brought it to his lips and kissed it gently. “Be well.” Diana snatched her hand back and practically ran from the room. Her heart was beating rapidly in her chest. Why did it have to be so hard? Why couldn’t he have left well enough alone? **** Diana started her day like she did all the others. Breakfast was brought to her on a tray, and she ate in her room. Only six weeks had passed since she found out she was pregnant, and she was going mad. Trevor was constantly by her side and underfoot whenever she left her bedroom. The room became her sanctuary and her prison. It could be worse, she supposed. Diana looked at the antique cherry wood furniture and luxurious warm tones. She even had her own fireplace and balcony. But all the ornate decorations couldn’t hide the fact she was a prisoner in her own home. Sheridan made himself scarce with business excuses that kept him away from her. And Diana was becoming more frustrated by the day. The only time she had a moment’s peace was in the library. She would curl up on the sofa and read to her heart’s content. No mention was ever made of love or children. It seemed to be an accepted fact that she was merely the 80

What He Wants

incubator to be watched over and smothered with attention by everyone but her husband. Miles went out of his way to prepare the most delicious breakfasts she ever had the pleasure of eating. He would dress her tray differently everyday, and she appreciated his efforts. There were even times when she had caught Trevor looking at her speculatively and with a small amount of pity. Those were the days she spent more and more time in her room. **** Diana was picking at her croissant, debating whether she would hide in her room or the library that day, when there was a loud crash downstairs. She rushed out of her bedroom into the hallway and looked down at the front door with her mouth hung wide open. The most beautiful woman she had ever seen was hugging Miles tightly and kissing his cheeks. The woman had beautiful red hair, which cascaded in riotous curls halfway down her back, and bright green eyes that Diana could even see from upstairs. The flowing emerald gown she wore hugged her curves and fell beautifully to the floor. A handsome older man was standing behind her, smiling broadly. Sheridan had dashed out of his room and was walking, as if in a daze, to the couple. He embraced the woman tightly, and she laughed delightedly. He turned to the older man and hugged him, too. Miles was busy trying to pick up the dishes that had fallen when the woman looked up and saw Diana. The look in the woman’s eyes was so intense, that Diana stepped backwards for a moment. And then the woman was walking up the stairs and toward her. 81

What He Wants

Diana glanced down at Sheridan, and she could see he wasn’t pleased. His mouth was set, and he watched the scene unfold with a scowl. What was wrong with him? And who were these people? Her hands splayed over her belly, and she strengthened her stance. She wouldn’t run. Sheridan knew these people, and that was fine. And the woman had hugged Miles. Surely she couldn’t be that bad. The older woman stopped at the top of the stairs and glided slowly toward Diana. Up close, the woman was even more beautiful. Her porcelain skin shone, and her eyes glowed with intensity. “You are Diana?” Diana nodded and held her head high. “I am.” The woman moved closer and folded her into a tight embrace. “We’ve waited for you, Diana,” the woman whispered in her ear. Her hand dropped to Diana’s midriff. “And my grandson.”

82

What He Wants

Chapter 8 Diana moved backwards and looked questioningly down at Sheridan. His look of displeasure was hard to mistake. Why wasn’t he happy his parents were here? And why had he led her to believe they died? “Don’t worry, darling. We’ll work this out.” The older woman patted Diana’s hand and smiled. “My name is Isadora. And that,” she pointed downstairs with pride, “is my husband, Liam. We’re so pleased to finally meet you.” Diana turned to study Sheridan’s father and knew immediately where his son had gotten his beautiful, dark looks. Liam stood six four with a muscular build and striking looks. His hair was jet-black, and his eyes dark as coal. His traveling suit was tailored and fit his physique perfectly. Her eyes shifted from father to son. Sheridan was stomping up the stairs, and he smiled tightly. His dark eyes flashed a warning at his mother, and Diana watched with interest. “Mother. Your presence can be a little intimidating. Diana tires easily these days and spends most of her time in her room.” “I’m fine.” Diana smiled. “And I can’t wait to learn more about your parents.” She stressed the last word. Isadora looked from her son to her daughter-in-law and smiled. The sparks were almost palpable. “Come, dear.” She put Diana’s hand in her own. “I’m sure you grow weary of the same old faces around here.” 83

What He Wants

“You don’t know the half of it.” Diana turned to look at Sheridan and blinked innocently. Sheridan bit down on his temper and managed to restrain himself sufficiently. His parents could not have chosen a worse time to pop in for a visit. Diana was sequestering herself in her room and didn’t say two words to anybody. But at least he didn’t have to deal with his growing feelings for her or his child. Trevor was playing watchdog perfectly. Now, if he could only stop Miles from going to so much extra trouble for Diana, his life would be wonderful. Or at least tolerable. Isadora escorted Diana into the sitting room, and Sheridan had no choice but to follow. Trevor met them there and was delighted to see Sheridan’s parents. The men made themselves at home on a large ivory couch and loveseat. The women sat down on an ivory-finished mahogany frame settee with golden accents. Miles brought in tea on a silver platter. Isadora motioned for him to place it by her, and she beamed at the butler. “The house is magnificent, Miles. You make your family proud.” The butler colored slightly and then smiled. “Thank you, madam.” He bowed. “It is a pleasure to serve you and yours.” He shot a look at Sheridan and then back to Isadora. Isadora poured the tea and sat back. She took in Diana’s demeanor and knew she would have her work cut out for her. The first thing was to get Diana to open up to her. “How are you feeling, darling?” “I’m fine. Really.” Diana sipped the tea out of the delicate cup and tried to smile. What good would it do her to tell this woman how much she wanted a normal life with 84

What He Wants

Sheridan? His mind was set, and she couldn’t change anything. Isadora watched the storm in Diana’s eyes and tried to find a chink in the woman’s armor. For some reason, she couldn’t access Diana’s thoughts. But she could still communicate with her son. She glanced at him and scowled. Sheridan’s head shot up, and he grimaced. His mother was none too pleased. Liam looked sympathetically at his son and then shrugged his shoulders. This was Sheridan’s fight, and he would have to face it. His mother’s feelings came through loud and clear. She was displeased he would treat the mother of his child like a leper. Sheridan winced at a particularly harsh thought, and Isadora tipped her teacup to him. She wasn’t done by half. Trevor watched the communication fly back and forth between mother and son and then noticed something particular. Diana was looking back and forth from one to the other. She was frowning slightly, and then her eyes widened. He touched Sheridan on his arm, and watched Diana lower her head and take another sip of tea. Sheridan turned to him, and Trevor shook his head slightly. This wasn’t the time or place to have such a personal discussion. Liam rose to his feet and smiled down at Diana. “Welcome to the family, Diana.” He bent at the waist and kissed her cheek lightly. She smiled and thanked him. He bent to kiss his wife, and she turned so that her lips met his. “I will meet up with you later, love. I believe Diana and I have a lot of catching up to do.” She turned toward her son. “Sheridan. You and Trevor may go and keep your father company.” 85

What He Wants

Sheridan opened and closed his mouth. Diana bit her lip to keep from laughing. Not once, in the short time she’d known him, had anyone else ever gotten in the last word. Isadora stood and pulled Diana to her feet. “We’ll be in the garden.” Sheridan shot a look at his father, but Liam only shrugged. The ball was in Isadora’s court now. **** Diana let Isadora lead her outside and down one of the many paths that ran from the front door of the house into the gardens. The stone path was wedged in between row after row of magnolias and gladiolas. All the flowers down the path came from bulbs. Irises and tulips shared space, also. Both women were silent until they reached a small bench under an overhang. By tacit agreement, they sank onto the marble bench and studied the surroundings. “You are hard to read, Diana.” Isadora’s bright green eyes studied Diana’s blue, shrouded ones. “How so?” “You should be happy. You are newly married. You want for nothing. And then there is Rory.” Isadora’s eyes shifted to Diana’s stomach. “But you seem unhappy. And I wonder why.” Diana tried to smile, but it was a wasted effort. She would not open herself up to anyone in this family again. What good would her sham of a marriage do? Instead, she looked out amongst the flowers and focused on everything but the situation she faced now. “Please, Diana.” Isadora took Diana’s hand in hers. “Talk to me. I know my son can be a dolt sometimes.” Diana’s troubled eyes flew to Isadora’s kind ones. She wanted to trust. Up until now, her entire life consisted of 86

What He Wants

temporary people. But what made this woman different? And how would she know she could trust her? “I’m a woman, darling. A woman who can see many things. And right now, you are hurting. And I’m sure my son is involved.” Her voice lowered considerably. “Sometimes he doesn’t realize how he comes across.” “Yes.” Diana’s voice was bitter. “He does. That’s how he plans it.” She took a deep breath. “Your son advertised for a bride. And here I am. Bought and paid for.” Instead of shock and disgust, Diana was surprised to see a kind smile etched on Isadora’s face. “Darling. It matters not how he met you. What matters now is this friction between you. And not the good kind.” Diana barked out a laugh. She turned her head and squeezed her eyes shut. When she turned back to the woman, she decided to tell Isadora exactly what her son had been up to. “Isadora. Your son claimed to need an heir. That is what he was advertising for. A donor uterus. He is paying me money to have this child for him and his family.” Diana rushed on. “Your son is powerfully attractive, and I must admit that I didn’t mind our marriage at all. And now he assures me that since I’m pregnant, he won’t touch me again.” She turned her head so that Isadora could only see her profile. “Child.” Isadora turned Diana’s head back towards her. Their eyes met, and the older woman smiled. “Rules were meant to be broken. And this is definitely one of them. I’m aware of the conditions of your marriage. And I’m aware of my son’s rules. But only you have the power to change them. I want you to remember that. My son is not as 87

What He Wants

impenetrable as he would like to think.” Isadora’s green eyes sparkled. “And you care for him?” “Yes.” “Then make him eat his words. I had to do the same with his father.” Isadora stood quickly and pulled Diana to her feet. “We’d best be walking back so the men don’t send out a search party for us.” Diana looped her arm in her mother-in-law’s and felt peace for the first time since she’d been married. **** Diana paced back and forth in front of her closet. She was frantic. None of the clothes in her closet were suitable for seduction. She bit her lip and flipped through her hangers again. When she reached the back of her closet, she pulled all the clothes forward. And there it was. Her jaw dropped as she looked at the dress that hadn’t been there a minute ago. She must have missed it in her rush to find something. The silk dress was long and cobalt blue. It brought out the blue in her eyes, and made them appear even larger, giving her an exotic look. There was a slit on the right leg up to her mid-thigh. And there was no back. Small strings laced from one side to the other. The bodice was also made of strings that were strategically placed between her breasts. The top was sleeveless and gathered up on her shoulders. She picked through her underwear drawer until she found a blue, silk bikini. Diana slid the panties up on her hips and smiled. She pulled the dress off the hanger and pulled it over her head. Wiggling a little, she let the blue silk slide over her hips. Perfect. Absolutely perfect. Diana cocked her head to the side and studied herself. What in the hell was she going to do about her hair? The 88

What He Wants

red hair fell loosely on her shoulders, and she knew it wasn’t the most flattering style. She needed it up on her head somehow. Pulling it up, Diana twisted it and studied her reflection. How was she going to get it to stay that way? Pouting, she let her hair fall back down again. Hell. Someone knocked on her door, and she sighed. “Come in.” Isadora opened the door and stepped inside. She shut the door quietly behind her and turned to study Diana. “Your choice of dress is absolutely stunning.” And so was Isadora’s. The green wrap hugged her every curve, and the white fur wrap was placed lovingly around her shoulders. She had her hair wound tightly around her head while curls streamed down on both sides framing her perfect, oval face. The result was absolutely breathtaking. “The dress is great,” Diana admitted. “But this hair needs some serious help.” She lifted a limp curl and scowled at herself in the mirror. “Child. You can have your own hairdresser here.” Isadora’s kind eyes studied her daughter-in-law. “Trevor is more than qualified to do your hair.” “Trevor?” Diana choked out in disbelief. “I really don’t think so.” “Do you not notice he cares about you?” “It’s his job. That and to spy on me for Sheridan.” Diana grimaced as she heard how her words sounded. “Sorry.” “Quit apologizing, darling. I know how this works. The men have all the power. We women are supposed to just fall in line and behave ourselves. How boring.” 89

What He Wants

Diana’s lips twitched. “No offense, Isadora. But I have a hard time picturing you behaving for anyone. Did Liam make you crazy?” Isadora rolled her eyes. “To say the very least. He was constantly telling me what to do. How to act. What to say. It became terribly bothersome. And so I decided to take it upon myself to do what I wanted. And we came to an understanding.” She walked around the room and found the book Diana couldn’t quite make herself put back in the library. “Interesting reading. I always did enjoy books from the library. How are you finding this one?” Isadora tapped the cover. Diana blushed slightly. The two people on the front in a lover’s clinch left little imagination as to what the book was about. “That one fascinates me.” “It did me as well. Interesting.” Isadora tapped the cover again and put the book back down on top of the dresser. “Let’s see what we can do about this hair of yours. Beautiful shade.” She walked back and pulled Diana’s hair on top of her head and placed a pin strategically here and there. “What do you think, darling?” Diana’s eyes widened as she looked at the beautiful chignon Isadora made. It brought out Diana’s sapphire eyes and cheekbones marvelously. “You must show me how to do that,” Diana said in awe. “The only hairdo I can pull off is a ponytail.” “Ask Trevor.” Isadora smiled down at her daughter-inlaw in the mirror. “He’s incapable of lying about what hairstyles look best. And it is his job. He’s a caretaker of sorts around here. Use him.” 90

What He Wants

The last sentence brought another blush into Diana’s fair cheeks. That she had done. But to hear Isadora tell it, maybe there was a way Trevor could be something besides a liability. She would definitely ponder the possibilities. Diana stood up, and Isadora took her hand. “Let’s make an entrance, shall we? I think the men have waited long enough.” Diana nodded and looped her arm through Isadora’s. They walked downstairs and into the conservatory. All the men’s eyes focused on the two beautiful women approaching. Sheridan was dumbfounded as his wife entered. She was a vision of loveliness. His gaze wandered lower, to her magnificent breasts, and he cursed low under his breath. His cock was already making its demands known. He ached to bury himself deep in Diana and feel her body tighten around him. He slammed down another two fingers of whiskey and stood to welcome Diana into the room. Liam was already on his feet. “My love.” He bowed deeply over his wife’s hand. “You grow more beautiful by the second.” Isadora grinned down at the top of her husband’s head and then whispered something in his ear. He straightened with a laugh and a wink. “I’ll remember that.” Sheridan took Diana’s hand in his and brought her to sit by him on his settee. “You look absolutely lovely this evening, Diana.” Her eyes looked deeply into his, and she smiled. “Thank you, Sheridan.” She turned to look at Isadora. “I’m enjoying your mother’s company. How long do you think you’ll stay, Isadora?” Liam opened his mouth, as did Sheridan, but Isadora waved her hand, and both male mouths shut. “That 91

What He Wants

depends, darling. I have business of a sort here. And when that is done, then I may leave. It simply all depends.” Miles brought drinks into the conservatory and bowed low to Isadora and Diana. “I hope the meal is to your liking.” “Oh, Miles!” Diana exclaimed. “You work miracles in that kitchen. I adore your cooking.” Miles smiled and bowed even lower. Isadora watched approvingly as Sheridan scowled at the butler. “We shall move to the dining room, I think.” Isadora stood, and the rest of the family followed her. She sat on Sheridan’s right side while Diana sat on his left. Liam sat by Isadora, and Trevor sat by Diana. Miles served course after course, and the conversation was lively around the table. Diana glowed with the attention she received from Isadora and Liam. Even Trevor smiled indulgently at her transformation. But Sheridan wasn’t listening. He itched to take Diana’s hair down and wrap it around his hands and plunge his body into hers. Her mouth called to him, and he longed to taste her again. His eyes raked over her body again and again. He thought he would go crazy from wanting her. Memories of their bodies wrapped tightly around each other consumed his thoughts, and his appetite for food had nearly disappeared. He wanted only Diana. Sheridan’s eyes strayed more than once to Diana’s still flat stomach. She carried the heir to his people. Sexual relations could be harmful until after the birth. But after the birth, Diana would be gone. Trevor was already mixing up the potion now to make her forget. She would have a life that many others only dreamed of having. Her every whim and wish would be taken care of. But neither she nor Sheridan would ever marry or love another. Their bond 92

What He Wants

was too great to each other. And that would be something he would be forced to live with the rest of his life. Diana glanced up and found Sheridan’s dark eyes probing into hers. She smiled ever so slightly and licked the edge of her lip with her tongue. Sheridan’s eyes focused on her mouth, and she knew the thrill of power. He still wanted her. And it was up to her to break down the walls he had erected. She would do it. She would make him want her again.

93

What He Wants

Chapter 9 After dinner, everyone retired to the library. Sheridan kept Diana close to his side. She was never more than an arm’s length away from him. Diana was more than happy to stay as close to Sheridan as he would let her. And she noticed Isadora looking pleased more than once. Sheridan poured drinks for everyone, and Miles brought Diana lemonade. The fire cast shadows around the room, and Diana settled back into her couch cushion with a sigh. This was what she wanted. She looked around the room and knew contentment, if only for a minute. Then Trevor opened his mouth. “Sheridan. We have a few deals we need to look over this evening.” Isadora scowled at Trevor and narrowed her eyes. He smiled weakly at her. “I hardly think this is the time or place for business talk, Trevor. I’m surprised at you. Family is important. When did you forget that?” Trevor looked pleadingly at Sheridan, and Diana knew the truth then. Sheridan had put him up to it. It was written all over his face. “Isadora.” Diana smiled at her mother-in-law. “I believe your son was planning to get out of an evening of our company. Isn’t that right, Sheridan?” 94

What He Wants

Her blue eyes glanced over to his dark ones, and she read shock. Served him right. Thought he was pulling one over on her and his mother. “I may have mentioned earlier to Trevor that the business needed our attention this evening.” His voice was tight and irritated. Sheridan’s gaze focused on Diana again, and he pushed his mind into hers with no avail. Something was definitely wrong. “Do you feel well?” he inquired of his wife. “I feel fine,” Diana assured him with a smile. “Never better.” “The only business you need to tend to is your marriage, son.” Isadora’s words rang out through the library, and Diana tried not to wince. Sheridan opened his mouth when Liam stepped into the discussion. “Sheridan. Your mother is right. When we were newly married, everything else fell to the wayside. We needed that time to be together. You two don’t even sleep in the same room.” “You know why.” Sheridan’s onyx eyes flashed sparks at both his parents. Trevor cleared his throat uncomfortably. Isadora’s eyes flashed to his. “And you,” she wagged her finger at him. “You ought to be ashamed. You know your place in this house. And Diana hasn’t a clue. Quit being a nuisance and start helping.” “Yes, Isadora.” He bowed his head, as if in shame. Diana glanced from Isadora to Sheridan and could hear tiny snippets of conversation in her head. They were arguing about her again. The first time it happened, she could scarcely credit what was occurring. Somehow she was now privy to their communication. “…disrespectful…” 95

What He Wants

“…my wife…” “…some silly fear…” She didn’t question any of it. The entire process was surreal. Why shouldn’t she be able to hear what they were saying? Diana’s hands rested on her stomach, and somehow she knew that her condition had everything to do with her new ability. The firelight shone on her husband’s fierce features, and she knew she was still missing a piece of the puzzle. Sheridan kept his distance, that was true. But it was as if he were doing it on purpose. Putting a wedge between them. Making sure they were never left alone. And why would he do that? The word “love” skittered across her thoughts, and she clamped down hard on the idea. How could she love a man she hardly knew? A man who wouldn’t so much as look at her now? What was wrong with her? And how could Sheridan affect her on almost every level, while she couldn’t boast the same? It was hardly fair. “We’re retiring for the evening.” Sheridan stood and pulled Diana up from the couch. “I’ll have Miles move Diana’s things in the morning. Is that sufficient, Mother?” “Quite. And you don’t need to take that tone with me, young man. Nor will I expect you to use it on your new bride.” Isadora tipped her head to her son, and Diana saw emerald eyes twinkling. Now that Isadora had been granted her wish, it was up to Diana to carry through with the plan. She held her head high as Sheridan escorted her briskly from the library and to his room. His back was stiff and unyielding as they rounded the corner that led to his bedroom. Sheridan threw open the door and motioned for Diana to step through. As soon as 96

What He Wants

she crossed over the threshold, he shut the door with barely restrained anger. “Happy?” he sniped. “Overjoyed.” Her answer was as short as his. Sheridan raked his fingers through his hair and scowled. “There’s a reason you’ve been kept in your own room. I know you understand my reasoning.” “Oh yes. I’m pregnant with the heir.” Diana’s hands stayed protectively on her stomach. “Therefore, I cannot be touched in a conjugal way. Correct?” Her blue eyes flashed and blazed with anger. “Dammit, Diana! How many times do I have to tell you? I can’t! Why won’t you follow the rules?” “I don’t want to.” Diana moved closer and grasped one of Sheridan’s hands in her own. She brought it up to her left breast, and Sheridan groaned. “I’m a living, breathing woman. Not a stone one. I have feelings. I have wants, needs, and desires. And I desire you, Sheridan. I want my husband.” His hand tightened on her breast, and his breath caught as he felt her taut nipple against the palm of his hand. His cock hardened in an instant, and he knew he was fighting a losing battle. “Diana.” His voice was hoarse with need. “Please. I’m asking you. Go back to your own room. We can’t have sex.” “Sheridan.” His voice was a sigh. “There are other ways we can have sex. Aren’t there?” Diana stepped back and shrugged out of her dress, letting it pool on the floor. Sheridan’s harsh intake of breath was all that she hoped to hear. She moved forward and pressed her bare breasts against him. 97

What He Wants

“I want your mouth on me. Your hands on me. I want to hear my name on your lips when you come. I want it all, Sheridan. And you’re going to give it to me.” Sheridan’s arms came around her like steel bands. “You’re a temptress,” he whispered in her ear. “Do you know what you do to me?” “I have an idea.” Diana moved her right hand in between their bodies and stroked his hard cock through his trousers. Sheridan moved himself closer to her and arched into her palm. “Yes.” His breath came out slowly, combined with an anguished moan. Diana unzipped his pants and slid them over his hips. His black boxer briefs clung to his muscular thighs and ass. She started to sink to her knees, but he didn’t let her. “My turn.” He turned Diana so that her back was to him. He placed his tongue against her sensitive collarbone and flicked it back and forth against her. His hands came up to cup her breasts in his hand, and he rotated his hips against her ass. She brought her hands up over his and threw her head back against his shoulder. Sheridan nipped lightly at her throat while she purred. His hands crept lower, and he clenched her hips and brought her back closer to him. Diana cupped her breasts and arched her body against Sheridan’s hard cock. Sheridan’s right hand slipped into the front of her silk panties, and he cupped her wetness against the palm of his hand. He turned her around in an instant and was on his knees. He slid her panties down her legs while Diana steadied herself by putting her hands on his shoulders. Pulling her closer, Sheridan kissed her stomach lightly and nipped at her tender flesh. He moved Diana swiftly 98

What He Wants

around again and lowered her down on his silky bedspread. She moved to wrap her legs around him, but he kept her beneath him. Sheridan joined her on the bed and moved close by her side. He kissed Diana with such intensity and passion she could barely breathe. His tongue dueled with hers as he sucked it gently into his mouth. She moaned and pulled him closer. He rolled suddenly and brought Diana’s body on top of his. His hand crept between them to her pussy, and he dipped his finger into her, then brought it to his mouth. Diana’s eyes darkened as he sucked on the finger he’d just had inside her. “I want to taste you.” Diana’s lips twitched. “You just did.” Sheridan pulled the pins out of her hair and let her red tresses cascade around them. He inhaled deeply and clutched a lock tighter in his fist. “I have this idea.” She smiled at him and moved her body around where she was facing his feet. Diana lowered her mouth onto his hard cock and spread her legs back until her knees slid over Sheridan’s shoulders. She felt him curl his arms around her legs and bury his mouth against her aching clit. He ran his tongue around the nub and slid his mouth against her folds. She moaned and took his cock farther into his mouth and used her hand to stroke him up and down. Her hands cupped his balls and massaged them as she licked and sucked his cock head. Diana felt her orgasm building and rocked her pussy against Sheridan’s mouth. His tongue flicked mercilessly against her hard clit, and Diana twitched as all her nerve endings gathered in one part of her body. 99

What He Wants

Sheridan felt her body tense and increased the rhythm of his tongue. Diana cried out as her body jerked in a fierce orgasm, and she worked Sheridan’s cock faster and faster. He came with a shout and Diana turned to look at him. His eyes were closed, and her juices were still on his lips. Diana turned around and lay beside him on the bed. She threw her arm across him and snuggled closer. Sheridan opened his eyes and looked down at her. “Satisfied?” “Extremely.” Diana ran her fingers across his lips and smiled. “You’re not mad at me, are you?” “Hardly.” His onyx eyes studied hers. “As good as that was, I still want to bury myself inside you. That won’t change.” Diana’s body warmed at the mention of Sheridan inside her. She wanted that, too. But she would work up to that. Right now, she was in his room. It was a major improvement. “We can experiment.” Diana smiled and pressed herself closer to him. “I have all sorts of ideas.” “I bet you do.” Sheridan stood up and walked toward the bathroom. “Join me?” “I’d love to.” When they finished their shower and walked back into the bedroom, the sheets and comforter had been changed. Diana didn’t even bother with a nightgown. She pulled the covers back and slid inside. Sheridan walked around to the other side and climbed in beside her. Diana curled up next to him and smiled contentedly. This was where she belonged and where she needed to be. Sheridan spent half the night studying his bride and wondering what he had gotten himself into. This wasn’t a part of his plan. He refused to sacrifice his people for Diana. His heart ached at the thought of giving her up. Sheridan 100

What He Wants

cursed his fate, which dictated his life even now. He finally fell asleep around three and dreamed of Diana. **** Diana woke the next morning and smiled. The sunlight was filtering through the window, and she could hear the birds sing. Waking up in Sheridan’s room was a hell of a lot better than waking up alone in hers. She placed her hands on her stomach and hummed a tune under her breath. Her son was hungry. And so was she. Starving, actually. She hopped out of bed and walked over to Sheridan’s closet. She opened the oak door and peered inside. Business suits and tailored shirts were hung neatly side by side. Diana pressed her face to the silk shirts and inhaled deeply. They still smelled faintly of Sheridan. She pulled a crimson shirt out of the closet and held it up to herself. None of her clothes had been transferred yet, and she wasn’t walking around the house naked. Diana slid her arms inside and buttoned it up. The shirt fell to midthigh, and she grinned. Quite a fashion statement. Diana pulled her hair up into a ponytail and decided to sprint upstairs. Hopefully, no one would see her. She opened the bedroom door and looked around. Not a soul. Diana pulled the bedroom door shut behind her and had her foot on the first step when his voice stopped her. “Diana.” She shook her head and grinned. Turning around slowly, she saw Sheridan walking towards her from the library. “Yes?” Sheridan studied her from head to toe. His shirt hung loosely on her but still managed to accent the gentle curve of her hip. Her hairstyle made her look all of sixteen. Curvaceous legs peeked out from under the hem of the 101

What He Wants

shirt, and Sheridan stepped closer. His hands touched her thighs, and Diana’s eyes darkened. “Where are you running off to?” “I need to find some of my own clothes.” Diana grinned up at her husband. “Mine haven’t been moved yet, and I can hardly wear this to eat breakfast.” “We could have Miles bring us a tray,” Sheridan said with a wolfish smile. Diana laughed. “We could. But we won’t. You go along and run the business or whatever it is you do. I’m going to read in the gardens.” She turned away from him, but he stopped her. Sheridan lowered his mouth onto hers and sucked gently on her bottom lip. “I’ve been thinking about what you said. And I may have found another way for us to entertain ourselves.” Diana moaned deep in her throat. Sheridan laughed and swatted her on the ass. “Now run along and read. Or whatever it is you do.” He kissed her mouth one last time and disappeared into his office. She watched him go and shook her head. Diana hurried up the steps and into her room before she was seen again. It was rather warm outside, and she threw on a blue romper and sandals. She left her hair up in the ponytail and grabbed her mythology book. She wanted to learn more about the Spardens. After breakfast, Diana snuck out down a pathway she hadn’t taken before. Pungent wildflowers dotted both sides of the rock path. Butterflies hovered around and landed on Diana more than once. She laughed as a delicate lavender one lit upon her arm and wouldn’t leave. Diana inhaled deeply and smiled. The smell reminded her of home. Growing up with her aunt and uncle hadn’t been easy, but 102

What He Wants

it was educational. Her uncle had farmed, and her aunt had a garden. Pleasant thoughts reminded her of the times she helped her aunt prepare the produce for market and plant the flower seeds in pots to sell. Even now, the smell of wildflowers took her back to a simpler time and place. Diana stopped by a large sunflower and touched the golden petals. Sunflowers were one of her favorite flowers. They always looked so cheery and inviting. The seeds were almost fully developed and there would be cardinals helping themselves before too long. She lowered her hand and kept walking until the path divided, and she paused. The path to the right was lighter and continued with the wildflowers. The path to the left seemed to be darker as flowers formed an overhang that shrouded the path. Diana cocked her head to the side and wondered briefly why the paths were so divergent. She looked down at the butterfly on her hand and shrugged. The wildflowers were calling to her, and she took the path to the right. The sun caressed her face as she walked further down the path and waited for a bench to appear. Every so many feet, a person could sit down and enjoy the scenery. No sooner had she finished the thought than one appeared around the corner. It was an old wood bench with an oak finish and brass legs. Diana grinned and sat down. Heaven. Her little butterfly friend found a wildflower above Diana’s shoulder and perched on it. She propped her back against the arm of the bench and swung her short legs in front of her to take up the rest of the bench. Diana opened up her book and began reading. Before long, she was engrossed in a detailed history of a 103

What He Wants

people who were advanced from the beginning of their creation. Diana flipped open a small notebook she had tucked in her shorts and began making notes. Maybe she could find the time to pen a book based on this mythology. She tapped the pen on her teeth and pictured what she wanted to write. Maybe an outlaw story. Perhaps a romance. The possibilities were endless. She scribbled a few notes and began reading again. Diana turned the page and stopped abruptly. “Reading Thoughts” was the heading for the next chapter. Goosebumps raced along her arms. No way. She skimmed the material and paused on the second page. It was impossible. Utterly, irrevocably impossible. Diana’s heart beat faster in her chest as she read the chapter word for word. Everything she had been able to do in the last few weeks was listed. She could hear others’ thoughts. Eavesdrop on another person’s conversation. She slammed the book shut and looked around. Maybe she was letting her imagination run away with her. It was a distinct possibility. Diana stood up and began pacing by the bench. Maybe she had just imagined she could read people’s thoughts. Diana bit her lip and paced some more. But what if it were true? What if she could do what the chapter said? What was going on? She wasn’t a Sparden. She was a mortal. A simple woman. Maybe her hormones were acting up or something. Pregnancy could do strange things to a woman. Diana stopped abruptly and put her hands over her stomach, and her eyes widened. Pregnancy. Sheridan’s son. Pieces of the puzzle began to fall neatly into place, and 104

What He Wants

Diana’s mind raced with the prospects. None of this happened before she was pregnant. Rory. Her son. Sheridan’s son. The heir. Diana pressed her fist against her mouth to keep from shouting aloud. It was almost too much information to take at once. Her head pounded from the complications, and she tried to sort her thoughts. She wasn’t able to read anyone’s mind because she wasn’t one of them. But Rory was. Diana sat back down on the bench and pulled open the book with enough force to crack the spine. She looked at the table of contents and gasped. Could she have these powers? Diana brought her notebook out and made notes until the sun rose high in the sky. She gathered her book close to her and put the notebook back in her pocket. Her stomach was growling, and she needed lunch. She had to be careful about where she put the notebook. Sheridan couldn’t know what she found out. Diana knew that he meant to keep her in the dark. If he hadn’t, he would have brought the possibility up before now. But he hadn’t. What else was she not seeing? And how could she use her skills to find out? Diana had just stepped back onto the main path when she saw Trevor walking toward her. He smiled and waved, and she waved back. They met on the path, and he looked down into her eyes. He waved his hand, and she blinked. “What’s wrong? Is there a bug?” “No.” His eyes were confused, and he was frowning. “I thought I saw something.” Diana smiled up at him. “Did Sheridan send you to find me?” “Miles. He is almost finished preparing lunch and wants to make sure you eat properly.” 105

What He Wants

“I really do like him.” Diana turned and began walking. Trevor fell into step beside her. “Diana. If there’s anything you need to talk about, I want you to know that I’m here for you.” “Can you make a French chignon?” “What?” “You know. One of those fancy upswept hairdos. Can you make one?” Trevor nodded his head and laughed. “Yes, I can. Though that’s not what I was referring to, that is one of many skills.” They stopped at the front door, and Trevor opened it for her. “Planning on putting me to work?” “Possibly.” Diana nodded her thanks and stepped inside. Her stomach growled as the aroma of food wafted into the front entryway. She closed her eyes and smiled. “I love that man.” Trevor grinned and looked down at her. He motioned to her book. “Would you like me to take that for you?” Diana looked at the book and then at Trevor. “I appreciate it, but I think I’ll keep it with me. It whiles away the time. Fascinating reading.” She began walking toward the dining room and Mile’s delicious lunch. Trevor watched her with narrowed eyes. “I bet.”

106

What He Wants

Chapter 10 Diana kept the book close to her throughout lunch and disappeared after complimenting Miles on another exquisite meal. She knew that Trevor wanted to take the book away from her. But he wasn’t the only one. She remembered Sheridan mentioning it at the beginning of her stay. He wanted to take it from her in the library. It must have made him extremely uncomfortable to have someone prying through his ancestry. The enormity of where she was and who she was with took the breath out of her. Sheridan was a Sparden. That meant that his parents and Trevor were, too. And Miles. She ducked out the back door and made haste down another path that was strewn with river rocks alongside the pathway. Diana was sure that Trevor would be looking for her. He seemed extremely persistent. He was, after all, Sheridan’s watchdog. How much did he know? And what did he tell Sheridan? She was uneasy with all the subterfuge. Sheridan’s and her own. Nothing good had ever come of lies. Even lies of omission. Her trail split into three pathways, and Diana took the center lane without breaking stride. After she was a little ways from the house, she would find another bench and do some more research. There was still a chance that she was making something out of nothing. But her instinct told her 107

What He Wants

that she was right. The thought both scared and fascinated her. Diana stumbled upon another bench that was white stone. Miniature pink and yellow roses wound around the legs and up the back. She sat down and opened the book again. At least nothing in the book indicated the Spardens were a violent sort. They were simply different. Unique. She brought out the notebook again and flipped to the next chapter. For the next three hours, she was immersed in Sparden mythology and ancestry. Diana closed the book when her eyes began to blur, and her hand was cramping. If everything the book said was true, then she could do any number of things that mortals could not. Could simply being pregnant with Rory give her all these things? Diana looked at the book closely again. Another three chapters, and she would be done with it. That simply meant she could start over from the beginning again. The thought brought a smile to her face. The wind picked up, and Diana shivered in spite of herself. She glanced toward the sky and frowned. It looked like a big storm was rolling in. She hurriedly tucked the notebook in her shorts and hugged the book to her chest. She took off at a trot down the lane but didn’t quite make it to the house before the skies opened up. Fat raindrops plopped down on her bare arms as she was rounding the corner to the back door of the house. As soon as she was in sight, the door opened. Trevor strode stiffly toward her with an umbrella. Diana ducked underneath and smiled gratefully. Trevor looked down at her soaked body and scowled. “Sheridan is going to have my head if you don’t start telling me where you’re going. You disappeared after lunch, and I couldn’t find you. That’s highly unusual.” 108

What He Wants

She opened the back door and stepped inside. She turned to Trevor. “I’m sorry, Trevor. The next time I want to take a stroll, I’ll be sure and bring you along. I’m sure Sheridan won’t be bent out of shape.” “You’d be wrong.” Sheridan’s voice was low and angry. Diana sighed and turned around to find her very irritated husband. He scowled at Trevor, and Trevor apologized profusely before he left the two of them alone. “You didn’t have to be so hateful.” Diana caught the towel Sheridan threw at her and began drying her hair. “Diana. You know the rules. You agreed to them. And now it’s time to adhere to them. I want someone with you at all times. Trevor is my choice. And he will be with you from now on. Understand?” “Perfectly.” She kept her head down and heard Sheridan approach her. He lifted her chin up and looked deeply into her eyes. “I don’t want anything to happen to you or this child. Your safety is my only concern.” He cocked his head to the side. “I’m beginning to think you left Trevor on purpose. What have you been doing, Diana?” She calmed herself down with effort and shrugged. “I simply wanted a little time to myself. When I’m in the house, I feel like I’m under a microscope. I only wanted to walk in the gardens and take some time for myself.” “Trevor doesn’t have to be in your pocket. But he does need to be with you.” “I know.” Diana moved closer to Sheridan and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Have you been thinking about possible, um, positions and such?” Sheridan kissed the top of her head. “I’ll show you later.” **** 109

What He Wants

Diana watched everyone closely for the next month. She would catch people “talking” to one another with only their minds. She didn’t make herself known, she simply listened. Part of her was uneasy, and part of her was thrilled. Isadora and Liam left after staying for only two weeks. Diana had pleaded with Isadora to stay, but she couldn’t change the woman’s mind. The only promise she could extract was that Isadora would be back when she was needed again. Finishing the Sparden book was beginning to be a Herculean task. Sheridan managed to spend at least two hours with her every day in the library, and Trevor spent the rest of the day with her. All of her clothes were in Sheridan’s bedroom now. Diana put the Sparden book in a shoebox and hadn’t found any time to read it since the day she’d been caught in the rain. She was joining Sheridan for lunch one day when she brought up something that had been bothering her. “Why don’t we have any animals?” Sheridan’s head snapped up, and he frowned. “Why do you ask?” “I’ve always wanted a cat.” Diana shrugged. “The house is big enough. The gardens would be great for her to wander around. Would it be okay if I had one?” “Do you really want one?” “Yes.” She beamed at Sheridan and stood to give him a hug. As soon as she stood by his chair, he leaned his head against her stomach and smiled. “You’re starting to show.”

110

What He Wants

“I noticed that.” Diana brushed Sheridan’s hair with her fingers. Sharing her husband’s room brought them closer with each passing day. Sheridan kissed her belly through her dress and looked up at her. “Take Trevor and pick out a pet. I’ll be in my office doing some paperwork. Don’t go crazy and bring home a zoo!” “I won’t.” Diana blew him a kiss and walked out the door. She found Trevor in the conservatory. He was looking through an ancient book and glaring at it. He’d flip a page and glare some more. Diana could hear him mumbling under his breath. She didn’t dare pry into his thoughts because she wasn’t sure of what she could and couldn’t do. Diana tapped on the door frame. Trevor’s head popped up, and he slammed the book shut and laid it back on the desk. He mustered a smile and walked toward her. “You look lovely today, Diana. That dress is flattering.” She twirled and grinned. Sheridan had clothes brought to the house for her. Four different boutiques vied for her attention with fabrics and patterns. The one she was wearing today was mauve and emerald with large magnolias scattered all over. Her white sandals finished the ensemble. Trevor had worked wonders with her hair. She had let it grow since she’d been here. He pulled it back from her face with two white clips that made her look elegant. When Diana turned back toward Trevor, the ancient book was gone. She made a mental note. Something was up. Maybe she would look for the book when no one was around. “Thank you, Trevor.” Her brown eyes sparkled. “And now I must ask a favor.” 111

What He Wants

His dark eyes searched hers, and she smiled. She could see that he was upset he couldn’t access her thoughts. “And what do you need, fair Diana?” “A cat.” Trevor looked at her blankly for a moment. It had been years since a pet had crossed the threshold of the house. What was Sheridan thinking? And what would the pet do when it bonded to Diana, and she had to leave? “And you’ve asked Sheridan?” “Oh good grief, Trevor! Yes. I have permission. Now let’s go.” She took him by the arm and practically dragged him out of the house. Miles already had a black sedan with tinted windows waiting out front. The engine was purring underneath the hood, and Diana knew the air conditioner would already be on. She tucked into the passenger seat and buckled herself. Trevor eased into the driver’s seat and adjusted the mirrors. He pulled out of the driveway and down the road. “What brought this on?” He glanced at Diana out of the corner of his eye. “I’ve always wanted a cat. And honestly, sometimes I’m lonely at the house. I thought a cat could keep me company.” Trevor drove downtown and parked by a large pet store called Pet Utopia. He cut the engine and looked over at Diana. She turned to him and waited for him to say something. “Yes?” “Nothing,” he muttered. They both got out of the car and walked inside. Diana squealed with excitement at the literally hundreds of animals in the store. There were dogs, cats, 112

What He Wants

rabbits, and an assortment of various reptiles, fish, and amphibians. She walked resolutely toward the kittens and stopped dead in her tracks. A kitten as black as midnight was staring up at her from its pen. Its bright green eyes never wavered as they studied each other. The kitten was beautiful. She. The thought came unbidden to Diana’s mind. She was beautiful. Diana put her hand in the cage and stroked the silky, sable fur. The kitten began purring immediately and rubbing her head against Diana’s hand. She turned to Trevor, but he already had an associate bringing a carrier toward them. Trevor had the man put everything the kitten needed onto the counter and handed him a credit card. Diana was holding the kitten in the carrier and couldn’t help but feel attached to her already. After the bill was paid, another associate loaded the kitten’s belongings into the back of the sedan. Diana put the cat carrier between Trevor and herself. As soon as they were on the road, she opened the door and let the kitten out. “Are you sure that’s wise? She might be carsick.” “She’ll be fine. Come here, my sweet.” Diana smiled as the kitten bounded onto her lap and curled into a ball. Seconds later, she was asleep. “You seem to have an affinity for cats. Have you had any before?” His dark eyes probed hers for answers. “A long time ago,” Diana admitted. She absently stroked the kitten’s fur and thought about life on the farm. There were always dozens of cats around to play with. Moving to the city nipped that in the bud. Many landlords 113

What He Wants

frowned on pets. She didn’t realize how much she missed them until now. Trevor pulled into the driveway, and the wrought iron gates swung open. He drove up to the front door, and Miles appeared to open Diana’s door for her. “Thank you, Miles.” She beamed up at him, and he smiled down at her. He looked at the black kitten in her arms and then at Trevor. “He changed his mind?” Miles’ voice was shocked. “Apparently.” Trevor popped open the trunk and began unloading cat supplies. “Care to share?” Diana looked from one man to the other. Trevor shrugged. “No secret. Sheridan doesn’t care much for animals. We haven’t had an animal on the grounds in many years.” “It’s about time then.” Diana walked slowly up the front steps and into the house. She held the kitten in her arms the entire time. As soon as she walked into Sheridan’s bedroom, she put the kitten down on the bed. She immediately began purring and kneading on the cobalt bedspread. She walked over to Diana and rubbed against her again. Belle. Her name was Belle. “Belle.” Diana spoke the name softly, but the kitten raised her head and peered at Diana again. “Amazing,” she muttered. Was this another ability she had now? Spardens had the ability to communicate with animals on some level. She shook her head back and forth. What else could she do? **** Sheridan found Diana in the library around four-thirty in the afternoon. She was curled up on the couch with a black piece of fur in her lap. He studied them both and tried 114

What He Wants

once again to pry into her thoughts but to no avail. His sigh was rather loud in the room. Diana lifted her head and looked up at her husband with a quick grin. She scooped the kitten into her hands and stood up. Walking slowly, she extended her hands out to Sheridan and let him see what she bought. Belle looked at Sheridan and hissed. Diana bit her lip to keep from laughing. The man who could charm anyone couldn’t make friends with her kitten. Sheridan shook his head in disgust. “You know I don’t like animals, don’t you?” “I heard Trevor and Miles talking about it. I really do appreciate you letting me get her. Her name is Belle.” Sheridan looked deeply into the kitten’s eyes and sighed again. Another brick wall. “She’s rather unfriendly, isn’t she?” “Don’t be silly.” Diana brought Belle back to her face and kissed the kitten’s pink nose. “She’ll get to know you, and we’ll be fine.” “Sure.” The words lacked one ounce of belief. Diana put the kitten down and stepped closer to her husband. She pressed her lips to his. Sheridan’s arms tightened around her, and she deepened the kiss. The taste of her husband was intoxicating every time. Sheridan’s answering groan was all she needed to press herself even tighter to him. She pulled away and whispered kisses on his face. “My body aches for you. All of you. I want you inside me. Please.” “Diana.” Sheridan’s moan was an answering need. His hands cupped her ass and brought her body flush against his. Diana lifted her dress to her waist and pushed herself 115

What He Wants

wantonly against his hard cock. She was wet and needed satisfaction. Sheridan brought his hand down between them and slid a finger into her wetness. Diana arched against him and clutched the back of his head. “Please, Sheridan,” she panted. “I want you.” They sank to the rug in front of the fireplace. Sheridan lifted Diana’s dress off and lay her down. His mouth sought out her ripening breasts, and his hands clenched her hips close to his. Diana’s nipples were sensitive, and she cried out at the sensations Sheridan was causing. She writhed in his grasp and tried to urge him closer. He switched to her other nipple, and Diana felt moisture seep down her leg. She needed him inside her. Sheridan ran his hands down her body and noticed the small mound where his child rested. He would do anything in his power to keep his son safe. As much as his body ached to fully possess Diana, he knew he could not. His hand crept lower, and he circled her clit with his thumb. She would climax within minutes. “Sheridan,” Diana moaned and tried to move his hand. She didn’t want another empty climax. She needed him. Her hand finally moved his, and Diana unzipped his pants and pulled them down. Sheridan’s hard cock was in her hand now, and she stroked him. Before he knew what she was doing, Diana had his cock inside her and wrapped her legs around him. Sheridan growled as Diana’s tight pussy clenched his cock. She began moving, and he knew he lost control. He thrust his body into hers over and over again. Diana cried out as her orgasm started and raked Sheridan’s back with her nails. He continued to drive into her until he couldn’t 116

What He Wants

take it any longer. He came with a yell and tightened his grip on Diana’s hips. They lay on the carpet, barely breathing. Barely a minute later, Sheridan stood up from the carpet and glared down at Diana. “That shouldn’t have happened.” He tucked his shirt back in and did his pants up. His raven eyes looked at her accusingly. Diana propped herself up on her elbows and fixed her dress. She looked at him calmly. “Sheridan. We’re both fine. Rory and I are okay. I think you’re worrying far too much.” “You don’t worry enough.” His accusatory tone put her over the edge. Diana stood up and glared at her husband. “I’m not some fine china you can put on the shelf and take down whenever you please. You’ve started this between us, and I can’t take my needs or feelings back.” “You knew the rules!” “Rules!” Diana shouted. “That’s all I’ve heard since the day I arrived here.” She paced back and forth on the rug. “You’re a fine one to talk. You bend the rules whenever the fuck you feel like it. How convenient.” “Don’t take that tone with me. I’m not the one who forced myself on you.” Diana stopped in midstride. His words cut her deeply, and she lashed out. Her blue eyes blazed. “Don’t worry.” The words were curt. “I won’t be forcing myself on you again. I want my own room back. Today. Do it.” She scooped up Belle and left the room. Hurrying down the hall, she stumbled into the kitchen and out a back door. Belle was purring against her chest, but she barely noticed. Sheridan’s words hurt her more 117

What He Wants

than he would ever know. Diana managed to stay on a path but didn’t really pay attention to which one. Her mind was preoccupied with the clusterfuck known as her life. She walked for quite awhile and then slowed down considerably. Her emotions were all caught deep in her chest. She couldn’t even find release in crying. The tears simply wouldn’t come. Diana put Belle down and looked around. Honeysuckle branches formed an arch above her head. The smell was intoxicating and soothed her nerves a bit. Belle sniffed around but stayed close to Diana. She knew Sheridan didn’t want to have sex, but it all seemed so pointless. People had sex all the time when they were pregnant. If the mother and baby were healthy, then what was the big deal? Diana shook her head and thought back to all the conversations she and Sheridan had. He had been adamant about no intercourse but never told her why. Maybe something happened in his family that scared him now. Why wouldn’t he ever open up to her? All he did was issue commands and orders. This wasn’t a marriage, it was a dictatorship. Diana walked slowly down the narrow path to clear her mind. Sheridan’s words couldn’t be taken back. He said them. He meant them. She would simply move back to her room and not deal with his supercilious attitude. Truth be told, she was furious. Mostly with herself. Her wham-bam marriage and pregnancy probably didn’t bode well for her future here at the house. And now she would have to put up with her body wanting Sheridan, and her mind pushing him away. She found a pine park bench and sank into it. Belle jumped up and lay down beside her. There were so many 118

What He Wants

ways to make something work. Why did she keep finding the one that didn’t? **** Trevor found Diana around six o’clock. He’d already taken three different paths before he found the right one. The garden was tricky. Many times paths changed and moved. He was lucky he found Diana before dinner. And Sheridan was furious. Trevor knew exactly why. He couldn’t say he’d be thrilled to find his wife endangered her and the baby’s health for her sexual gratification. He looked at Diana and knew there was more to her than that. Diana’s eyes were closed as Trevor approached her. “Did you draw the short stick?” Her words stopped him in his tracks. His step was soundless. How did she know he was there? “Maybe,” he admitted. “Sheridan would like you to come back to the house and have dinner.” “Have my things been moved?” “Yes.” She opened her eyes and stared at the man Sheridan was closer to than anybody. “Do you think I’m an awful person?” Trevor steepled his fingers and looked down at the woman in front of him. “It’s not for me to say either way, Diana. I only know that you’ve gone against Sheridan’s wishes.” “Have you ever been in love?” Diana’s voice was small and uncertain. She gazed up at Trevor with a quizzical expression. He steeled himself against the pity he felt for Diana. She had no idea what lay in store for her. Her son would be taken. Her time here would be lost. 119

What He Wants

“Is that what this is about, Diana? Love?” She sighed deeply. “I don’t know. I don’t know anymore.” Trevor helped her up from the bench and stroked Belle’s fur. “She really is quite beautiful.” “Yes.” They were both silent on the walk back to the house. Before they reached the back door, Diana turned to Trevor. “Could you please fix my hair this evening?” “I would be delighted.” He lifted her hand and kissed the back of it. He watched her walk away with a tangle of feelings and no answers.

120

What He Wants

Chapter 11 Diana waited for half an hour for Sheridan to show up for dinner. He never did. Miles served her, and she picked at the roast and vegetables. He brought out her favorite dessert, but she declined and promised to eat it tomorrow. She walked back to her room with a seething temper and a heavy heart. It was unfair that one man could have so much control of her life. And rules! Diana wanted to gnash her teeth together. When did rules come before feelings? Didn’t Sheridan feel anything for her? Was it all just an act? Diana sighed and shut her bedroom door behind her. She pulled the pins out of her hair and let the red locks tumble to her shoulders. She stepped out of her dress and pulled on her pale blue tank top and shorts. Tonight she would finally finish the Sparden mythology and try to find a way to break through to her husband. She dug the book out of her shoebox and hugged it closely to her chest. Just in case someone happened by, she locked her door. Diana turned back to her bed and smiled as she saw Belle’s sleeping body curled up on the biggest pillow on the bed. Snickering evilly, she bounced on the bed and laughed as Belle opened one eye and yawned hugely. “That’s not much of a reaction, my sweet. You’re supposed to spazz out. What happened?” 121

What He Wants

Belle looked at Diana with both eyes and blinked twice. The kitten had heard Diana come in and was expecting company. Diana shook her head. Know-it-all kitty. She still had a hard time adjusting to the fact she could communicate with her kitten. She shrugged and rearranged herself on the big bed so she was comfortable. Diana opened the nightstand and took out her notebook with all her notes penned down. She found the chapter she had stopped at and began reading again. Immersing herself in the words was amazing. Many times, Diana felt as if she were actually there and witnessing rituals and people. Her heart began to beat faster as she turned the page to the last chapter. “The Future of the Spardens.” This was what she wanted to know. This was imperative to her future in this house and in this life. The first words of the first sentence sent her into shock. Spardens will mate with their own kind and produce no more than two children. The only Sparden male to procreate with a mortal woman will produce the heir to the throne of our people. Blending our two people will ensure that our race survives. The future of the mortal woman is undecided. Diana read the last sentence again with her pen clenched in her hand. Undecided? What in the hell did that mean? What was Sheridan going to do with her after she birthed this child? She thought back over her wedding ceremony and knew both took vows until death. She sat back, breathing easier. Surely he cared for her? They were compatible. They cared for each other. She was having his baby for Pete’s 122

What He Wants

sake! But Diana had a sinking feeling. Maybe there were more rules than she knew about. And what if not all of them were in her favor? **** The next week, Diana stayed mostly in her room and in the library. She didn’t run into Sheridan once. The coldness cut her deeply, but she didn’t know what she could do to change it. After a week had passed, she decided to go outside for a walk with Belle. The cat was becoming antsier by the day. She needed to stretch her legs and be outdoors. Diana brought her notebook with her and decided to take the time away from the house to study. Trevor didn’t push himself on her anymore. He knew where she was. Her admission probably made him uncomfortable. What did you do when your boss’ wife confided in you? She continued to eavesdrop on a regular basis, but the conversations between Miles and Trevor were rather boring. Food purchases and such. Who to hire on to help with Sheridan’s real estate. She began to tune them out on purpose. Diana rounded a corner and stopped in her tracks. She could hear Sheridan and Trevor talking. And they were discussing her. She crept as close as she could and motioned for Belle to stop and be quiet. The kitten paused and looked up at Diana. “She’s hurting.” Trevor’s voice was low and urgent. “And this concerns you how, Trevor? You’re the one who counseled me not to get too close, aren’t you? Now look at you.” Trevor sighed. “She loves you.” “Don’t!” Sheridan’s voice was harsh and curt. “Don’t speak to me of love. You already know what I must do. My 123

What He Wants

feelings don’t even enter into it. You know our people demand it. Now go do your job. I expect the elixir to be ready no later than a week from today.” “When she drinks it, she’ll no longer remember, Sheridan. She won’t know this life. You. Her son. Are you sure?” She couldn’t hear Sheridan’s response, but she knew it didn’t matter. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she feared she would faint before she could walk away. Scooping up Belle quickly, she scurried toward the house. Fighting back tears, Diana hurried into her room and shut the door behind her. As soon as she knew she was alone, she sank down the wall and curled her arms around her knees. Her heart was breaking, and she let the tears slide down her cheeks and into the carpet. Everything was a lie. Sheridan was going to make her forget. Trevor was going to make her drink something, and her life here wouldn’t even be a memory. Diana dashed back tears and stood up angrily. Like fucking hell. She breathed in and out slowly, finding her balance. She closed her eyes and placed her hands on her stomach. And then she felt it. A tiny fluttering inside her womb. Her son. Diana’s eyes widened in disbelief. She was barely two months along. Rory was a strong soul. The future leader of his people. But first and foremost, he was her son. A piece of her. And she wouldn’t give up being a part of his life for anybody. She sat down on her bed and closed her eyes. There was no way she could continue to live here in this house. Somehow, she would have to leave. To make a life for herself and Rory. No more Miles. Isadora. Liam. Did they 124

What He Wants

all know what Sheridan was going to do? Or was it just a plot between him and Trevor? Diana’s stomach knotted, and she prayed she could make it until she found a way out. At least Rory could help her. His mere presence was enough to block anyone digging through her thoughts. And for that, she was grateful. She stepped into the shower and tried to wash the day off herself. The warm water steamed up the bathroom, and Diana relaxed into it. She sank to the bottom of the tub and let the water caress her body. Her hands moved between her legs, and she rubbed her clit against her fingers. She was so tense; she needed some kind of relief. Diana spread her legs a little farther and moved two fingers into her slick opening. Her other finger still circled her swollen clit, and she threw her head back against the shower wall. She remembered Sheridan’s hands and mouth on her. Moving her finger faster, she didn’t hear him until it was almost too late. “Diana.” Her eyes opened and she looked at him blearily. His dark gaze swept over her, and she didn’t move a muscle. He looked at her hand between her legs, and he growled low in his throat. “Let me.” “Sheridan. I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Her eyes hardened. “I’d hate to force myself on you.” “Please, Diana. I’ll apologize for that in a minute. Right now, I want to taste you. Please.” His dark gaze bored into her, and she stood up on shaky knees. Sheridan wrapped a large towel around her and carried her to the bed. He lay her down gently and sank to his knees. Making sure she was watching, he put both of 125

What He Wants

Diana’s legs over his shoulders and brought his mouth to her aching pussy. The minute his tongue touched the sensitive nub, Diana moaned and spread her legs wider. No one had ever done to her what Sheridan could do. All thoughts left her head as she concentrated on her pleasure. He rocked her against his mouth and continued to flick his tongue against her delicate flesh. Sheridan’s hands clenched her ass as he moved her faster and faster. Diana looked down and felt herself tremble as she watched him work his mouth against her wet pussy. Diana’s breath caught, and she jerked as her orgasm gripped her and rippled through her body. Sheridan continued to lick and suck her clit while aftershocks slammed through her. She sobbed and tried to move but couldn’t. When Sheridan was done, he gently laid Diana on top of the bed and scowled briefly at the cat. He planned on staying in Diana’s bed tonight to make up for his hotheaded behavior. The cat would have to relocate. “Could you try and talk your cat out of sharing the bed?” “Hm?” Diana’s eyes fluttered open, and she tried to make sense of what Sheridan was saying. “I want to be with you tonight, Diana.” She turned her head so he couldn’t see her feelings in her eyes. He didn’t know what she heard. He couldn’t know how she felt. “Why?” she asked point blank. Sheridan raked his fingers through his dark hair and sighed. “I’ve missed you. Terribly. I want to spend time with you. I care about you.” He grinned at her wickedly. “And I love to feel your body when you come.” 126

What He Wants

Diana’s heart leapt into her throat, and she turned her head to the side. “Belle. Go lay down in my closet, sweetie.” The black kitten stretched, yawned, and shot Sheridan a dirty look. Then she leapt off the bed and walked into the closet. Sheridan’s head whipped around and pinned Diana with his eyes. “Are you feeling all right?” “I’m tired.” “No.” He waved his hand. “Anything else. Out of the ordinary.” Diana felt a small bit of panic as she realized Sheridan was close to stumbling on her secret. There was no way she could let him know what she could do. She shook her head and yawned. “Just tired.” Sheridan’s eyes searched hers again before he stood up. “Is it okay if I sleep here tonight?” “Are you going to be giving me any shit about me forcing myself on you?” “No.” He held up his hand. “But we won’t be having intercourse again. Period. Okay?” “Fine.” Diana yawned hugely and punched her pillow. “I almost forgot.” Sheridan climbed into bed beside her and touched her cheek. “What did you almost forget?” “I felt our son move.” She closed her eyes and drifted to sleep. He felt as if all the air had left his lungs. Diana felt their son move. Sheridan pulled back the covers and placed his hands lovingly on Diana’s stomach. The small, hard lump against his hand brought a smile to his face. The conversation with Trevor did not. Sheridan glanced up at Diana’s peaceful face and knew he had a hard 127

What He Wants

decision in front of him. He ordered Trevor to make the serum to make Diana forget. His heart rebelled at the thought, but he didn’t know what else to do. His mother and father informed him that his people were restless, and he needed to make some important decisions. Liam would rule until Sheridan produced an heir to the throne. Then Sheridan would wear the crown, so to speak. It was everything he always wanted. But so was Diana. His people would not accept an outsider into their midst. She would be mocked and looked down upon. Even Sheridan’s protection could not save her spirit from breaking when she found out how cruel some could be. He would do anything necessary to keep that from happening. Anything. Sheridan stroked Diana’s hair and wished he could make everything work somehow. The main problem was that Diana was mortal. The one factor that made her ideal for the prophecy also made her weak in the eyes of his people. Their powers were extraordinary. And Diana was right when she described them in the library. Arrogance was a trait. Not all of his race would look down on Diana, but there would be some that would relish in making her life a living hell. She didn’t deserve to live like that. His heart constricted when he thought about Diana not being in his life. What was he going to do? The future of his kingdom was in his hands. And so was Diana’s life. Sheridan lay back and pulled her close to his body. Yes, he had some hard decisions to make. **** Diana woke up the next morning hugged tightly to a hard, masculine chest. She stiffened slightly as she 128

What He Wants

remembered the conversation she overheard yesterday, and she felt Sheridan move. “I see you’re awake.” “Yes.” Diana sat back and looked up at her husband. “Don’t you have business to attend to or something?” “I wanted to apologize again. I’m sorry for neglecting you.” “Why?” “Why did I neglect you? Or why won’t I let us have sex?” “Both.” Diana crossed her arms and waited for an explanation. Sheridan sighed and rubbed his jaw. “I neglected you because I’ve never been in this situation before. I’ve never had a wife. I don’t know how to behave. I’m used to barking out orders and getting my way. That doesn’t seem to work with you.” Diana’s lips twitched. “You think?” “Uh huh.” His fingers touched her cheek. “And the sex? I had an aunt who engaged in intercourse when she was pregnant. She hemorrhaged. My uncle lost his wife and nearly the baby.” “I’m sorry, Sheridan.” Diana’s eyes grew moist. “But the odds of that happening are minute. And she may have had different health problems to begin with.” He held up his hand. “It’s not up for discussion.” “Yeah, yeah.” Diana rolled away from him and stood up. She stretched and looked around her room. Thank goodness she remembered to put the Sparden book back up. She would bet money Sheridan wanted her far away from it. Diana turned and studied Sheridan in her bed. It did strange things to her heart. She knew she would have to put 129

What He Wants

her feelings aside because there was no way she was being dismissed from her son’s life. There was a brisk tone to her voice. “You’re not staying in here, and I’m not moving back to your bedroom. Sorry. I suppose we’ll just have to spend time together when we can find it.” She saw the anger in the rigid line of Sheridan’s jaw before he made himself relax. “Understood,” he said smoothly. He rose gracefully from the bed and put his shirt back on. “I’ll be in my study for the rest of the afternoon.” Sheridan walked over and lifted Diana’s hand to his lips. He kissed the back of it softly and then turned it over to the palm. “Until this evening.” Diana watched him go with mixed emotions. She was inexplicably drawn to him. What would happen if she stayed, though? Her life, as she knew it, would be altered forever. And this boy she carried inside her would never know his mother. The thought strengthened her resolve. She called Belle out of the closet and opened the Sparden mythology again. She only had until dinnertime to pull her plans together and save herself and her son.

130

What He Wants

Chapter 12 Sheridan finished up his last call of the evening and pinched the bridge of his nose. For the first time in a long time, he was exhausted. His business dealings weren’t weighing on his mind as much as Diana. He pushed himself back in his black, leather chair and closed his eyes. Who knew what would happen over a simple ad in the paper? And was he fooling himself to think he could keep his feelings separate? Spardens mated for life. He would continue to love Diana until there was no breath in his body. And she would do the same. Maybe he could talk his father into putting a vote before the council. Perhaps there was something that could be done about Diana. And he could have the family he always wanted. All he had to do was think Trevor’s name, and his right-hand man appeared in the doorway. “Yes?” Trevor glanced at his boss and frowned. Sheridan was obviously fatigued. There were dark circles under his eyes, and his hair was mussed. “Are you all right?” “Fine.” Sheridan waved his hand. “I’ve been better, but I’ll live. I want you to tell Diana to dress for dinner. I’m going to clean up, and I’ll meet her there. I have a surprise for her.” He dug into his top desk drawer and pulled out a black, velvet box. Trevor stepped closer, and Sheridan 131

What He Wants

opened the lid. A diamond choker lay sparkling against the inside of the case. “It’s beautiful, sir. I’m sure she’ll love it.” Sheridan snapped the lid shut and put it in his jacket pocket. “I’ve finished the serum.” Trevor waited for his words to sink in before he continued. Sheridan looked up with a grimace. “I can slip it in anything she drinks after Rory is born. The only vial is in my room. Whenever you need it, it’s yours.” “Thanks,” Sheridan said dourly. “I’ll let you know.” He stood up and motioned Trevor back toward the door. “Find Diana. I want Miles to prepare a special feast this evening.” “Yes, sir.” Trevor bowed and walked back out the door. **** Sheridan grew edgier as he waited for Diana to show up for dinner. He assumed Trevor told her what time they would be eating. When Miles came in for the second time and glanced around, Sheridan growled and shoved his chair away from the table. Miles arched an eyebrow at him, and Sheridan held up his hand. “Not one word.” Miles looked at him blankly, turned on his heel, and left. Sheridan marched out of the dining room and down the hallway. Trevor just came through the front doorway and stopped when he saw Sheridan. He could never hide anything from him, and now Sheridan saw what the problem was. “No.” The word came out in a rush. “It’s not possible.” “She’s gone, Sheridan.” 132

What He Wants

“No!” Sheridan shouted. “She can’t be! I would have known.” “Would you?” Trevor’s quiet question made Sheridan stop and think about his inability to communicate with her lately. Lately, she’d been different. Had she been hiding something from him? Sheridan’s bleak eyes fell on Trevor. “No. Because I haven’t been able to read her lately. And I didn’t think it was important.” He beat his fists on the wall. “And now she’s out there pregnant and alone.” “She’s not alone, Sheridan.” Trevor paused a second. “She has Rory.” The truth slammed into Sheridan like a fist, and his eyes widened. “He’s protecting her, isn’t he?” “Yes.” Trevor nodded and sighed. “I suspected as much, but I wasn’t sure.” Sheridan blew out his breath. “How are we going to find her?” He shook his head slowly. “And how much does she know?” **** Right that minute, Diana was driving in her car headed for the Promised Land. Her Promised Land. She glanced at her watch and knew Sheridan would realize she was gone by this time. He would be furious, she had no doubt. But there wasn’t any way she was going to be just a surrogate for this baby. She was his mother. And she was Sheridan’s wife. How little that seemed to count for now. Her heart twisted in her chest at the thought of Sheridan. She loved him. And that was the hardest part to swallow. Had he made her fall in love with him? Was there another serum out there that she’d been given? Diana cursed both men because the pain in her heart was real. 133

What He Wants

She placed her hands protectively over her belly and thought about her plans. First she’d withdrawn the half a million dollars which had been deposited into her bank account. The bank manager started to fuss until Diana fixed her gaze to his, and he seemed to calm considerably. Diana was extremely nervous and couldn’t help but look over her shoulder more than once. She knew that the bank would be the first place Sheridan checked. She wanted to be in and out as quickly as possible. Her next stop was to pick up a newspaper and find a good, used car for sale. The late model, black bronco was well worth every penny she paid for it. It only had fifty-five thousand miles on it. And then Diana headed out of town. Everything she needed she could purchase when she got to where she was going. And the farther away from Sheridan she was, the better. The sun was setting, and Diana felt herself relax bit by bit. She was going to start another life. She and her son would be happy. And no one would separate them. Ever. Diana stroked Belle absently and let her mind wander. She was driving away from her old life and into her new one. Her aunt and uncle’s farm was only two states away, but it would be far enough that she would have some measure of peace. Diana thought back to the quick conversation she had with her uncle’s attorney. He assured her the property was still on the market, and Diana paid the taxes without laying eyes on it. In a couple of days, she would take possession of the only house where she’d been accepted and loved for who she was. The forty acres were probably overgrown and needing work. But if she budgeted her money correctly, she could make the needed improvements and live a simple life. 134

What He Wants

Diana knew she would have to be careful. Sheridan wouldn’t stop until he found her. But he had no idea of her early life. She told him she didn’t have any family. And that was the truth. And she would be sure to use her birth certificate and the name on it for the house deed. She only adopted Stafford for living with her aunt and uncle. Her maiden name was Hatch. And Sheridan didn’t know that either. Guilt shot through her at taking Sheridan’s money and then running away. But he wasn’t completely honest with her, was he? He didn’t exactly tell her he was from a superior race of people. Nor did he plan on telling her he would take the child they created together. And what else had he kept hidden from her? A lot, she would wager. **** Diana drove until she couldn’t keep her eyes open any longer. Just as she wondered if she would have to sleep in the car, she noticed a little out-of-the-way hotel that looked reasonably well maintained, and paid a little more than usual so she didn’t have to leave the name on her license on the register. The manager didn’t seem to mind at all and gave her the room key. Belle was still in her arms as she trudged up the stairs and to her room. She unlocked it with a grateful sigh and turned on the light. It wasn’t a five-star hotel, but it would do for now. Diana locked the door behind her and lay back on the orange bedspread. She let her legs dangle off onto the green, shag carpet and shook her head. Belle curled up beside her. A small black lamp was bolted down to the scarred, wooden table in the corner. She didn’t bother turning on the television. A little bit of rest, and she would be on her way again. 135

What He Wants

Diana stood up and felt dizzy for a moment. She stood still until she got her balance back. When was the last time she ate anything? She honestly couldn’t remember. Tomorrow she would stop by a grocery store and pick up some fruit and crackers. Right now, she would shower and rest. As soon as she hopped out of the shower, she felt her son. The small fluttering brought a smile to her weary face. Rory was making his presence known, and she sank back onto the bed slowly. A tear slid down her right cheek, and she knew it would be the first of many. Even now her heart ached for something she could never have. And the painful truth ripped its claws across her. Crying quietly, she slipped under the covers and closed her eyes. Tomorrow was a new day. And she had her work cut out for her. **** Diana left early the next morning and stopped at a twenty-four hour grocery store. Her stomach growled as she was checking out, and she promised she wouldn’t neglect herself or her child again. And Belle would need cat food to eat. She put her groceries in the car and drove toward her new home. She should arrive in the evening before it was dark, if she made good time. Diana checked her mileage and made notes. One less thing she had to worry about. The drive was peaceful, and she took the time to think about her plans for the future. She would find someone to help her on the farm first. When the necessary improvements were made, she could have a few cattle and a nice garden. People in the heartland loved fresh vegetables. Going to the farmer’s market when she was a kid was one of her fondest memories. 136

What He Wants

Unbidden, Sheridan’s image came to mind. Diana’s heart lurched in her chest. Would she always hurt this bad? And what if Rory was the spitting image of his father? She pushed the feelings down low and concentrated on her driving. Diana rolled into town a little after seven that evening. She drove immediately to the attorney’s office and signed papers for the farm, and he furnished her with the key. “It’s not much, Diana. It needs a lot of work. Are you sure you know what you’re doing?” “Positive.” She beamed at the lawyer and shook hands. “If you need any help with anything, don’t hesitate to call. Your aunt and uncle were good people. I’m sure they would be thrilled that you’ve taken over care of the property.” Diana only nodded as the tears threatened to well up and choke her. When she left for college, she didn’t get back to the farm as much as she liked. She had her own life. And now she wished she had made more of an effort to come back. Diana thanked him again and left the office quickly. The town was small, and she was thankful. More than likely, the residents would remember her as the little girl with the ponytails from the farm. She doubted there would be any problem fitting back in. She drove out of town and took the dirt road, which led to her new home. The road was a washboard of ruts and holes. Diana gritted her teeth with every bump and shimmy of the Bronco. She pulled around the last bend and stopped. It was nearly as bad as she thought. The fences had weeds that were wound tightly around them. Her aunt’s garden was lost in a thicket of grass and hay. Her uncle’s barn and corrals were a jumble of fences and boards. 137

What He Wants

But the small white wooden house had withstood the test of time. A small porch jutted out in the front and had a nice railing where she used to set her glass of tea down. The windows appeared to be intact, and the door was still solid. The white paint was peeling, but she could fix that. Hang a few plants. Bring a rocker back to the front porch. Diana was already making plans when she set foot on the porch and unlocked the front door. The lock clicked, and she turned the knob. Diana pushed the door open and walked inside. Belle jumped out of her arms and she watched as the black kitten took off to explore her new surroundings. When her aunt and uncle passed, she had come back to store away all of their belongings. There was a building in town which still had the furniture and dishes. She had given all of the clothes and food to the local church. At the time, she couldn’t bear to live here without them. It was too painful. And then she simply forgot about the farm. But now, standing here in the front door, she felt like maybe, in time, she could find peace. Diana placed her hands on her stomach and smiled. “We’re home, Rory. This is where you’ll grow up. You and I are going to be happy here.” She would do everything in her power to make sure that statement was true. **** Two days later, the movers brought the furniture in and rearranged it to Diana’s preferences. She switched a few more pieces around until she was satisfied. The next day, she went into town and had the utilities put in her name. Diana came back home and looked through the local paper to find someone to mow the atrocious lawn. She had it narrowed down when she heard a knock at the door. 138

What He Wants

Diana walked to the door and opened it. Her mouth dropped open in shock, and her eyes widened. “What are you doing here?” Isadora looked calmly at her daughter-in-law and smiled. “I’m here to help, darling.” She swept past Diana and entered the house. Isadora was dressed in a crimson pantsuit edged in gold with sparkling sandals. Ruby earrings dangled from her ears. Diana shut the door numbly and turned to Isadora again. “How did you find me?” “Don’t worry so, darling. I’m here because you didn’t block me like you’re blocking Sheridan. You don’t mind me being here. And that’s why I am.” Diana blinked back tears as she looked into Isadora’s kind emerald eyes. “He was going to take Rory from me.” “I know, darling. I know. It’s quite a muddle, isn’t it?” She opened her arms wide, and Diana went willingly into them. “I won’t make excuses for him because right now, he doesn’t have any. I don’t know what’s shook loose in his head, but I don’t care for it.” Diana lifted her head. “Does anyone know you’re here?” “No.” Isadora lifted her hand and sighed. “Not even my darling husband. I made an excuse about traveling with a girlfriend. He’s off hunting somewhere.” Isadora placed her hand on Diana’s stomach and smiled. “You’ve got quite a little powerhouse in here.” “Yes.” Diana placed her hand on Isadora’s. “I don’t understand a lot of this. And I’m not sure it would help if I did.” Her blue eyes searched Isadora’s green ones. “But you can help me?”

139

What He Wants

“Darling. I will do everything I can. The problem with these men is they have tunnel vision. They think inside the box. And that isn’t always the way to do things.” Diana took a deep breath. “I love him. And I don’t know if he made me love him, or if I just do.” Isadora sighed. “No one can tell the heart what to feel or who to feel it for.” Diana winced. “That’s what I was afraid of.” **** Diana put off going to the doctor because she was afraid that he would be able to somehow know her baby was different. She asked Isadora the next day. “Darling. You don’t need a doctor. I can assure you. I will help you birth my grandson. And I would know if anything were wrong.” She laid her hands on Diana’s stomach and closed her eyes. Isadora hummed a little while she moved her hands around. When she opened her eyes, she blinked back tears. “He’s beautiful, Diana. Utterly beautiful. And he’s as healthy as can be. You have nothing to worry about.” The two women worked together to make the house into a home again. Isadora knew exactly who to hire and how much to pay them. Her mother-in-law had taken to wearing bright colored overalls with a scarf. She seemed to embrace the farm mentality. Diana let her deal with the business matters while she was trying to decide what vegetables to buy and how many cattle she would need. Diana’s days were taken up with the house, and her nights were filled with visions of Sheridan. Many nights, she swore she could feel his hands and mouth on her body. She ached for him. More than one morning, his name was on her lips. When she couldn’t stand the ache anymore, she used her showerhead as a makeshift vibrator. 140

What He Wants

Her body was more sensitive than it had ever been, and she trembled under the spray as her first orgasm hit her. Diana braced her left hand against the wall and cried out as she came again. She stood on shaky legs and stepped out onto her bath rug. Her nipples were still hard and aching. What she wouldn’t give to feel Sheridan’s mouth on her again. To have his strong arms wrapped tight around her. And then she felt it. Diana stood still with her mouth open in surprise. Rory moved. And she could feel it against her hand she had on her stomach. She hurriedly wrapped the towel around her and went in search of Isadora. “Isadora!” Diana hurried down the hallway and into the front room. Her mother-in-law was placing pictures on the living room wall. At Diana’s voice, she swung around, concern written all over her face. “What is it, darling?” Diana walked closer and pressed Isadora’s hand to her stomach. “This.” She watched as Isadora’s emerald eyes grew large and moist. “Oh my.” Her voice was whisper thin in the silence. “My grandson.” The pride in her voice was shadowed by awe. She pulled Diana to her and pressed her cheek close to hers. “Thank you, Diana.” When Isadora stepped back, she sniffled and smiled. “It’s hard, isn’t it?” Diana sat down on the couch and studied Isadora. “You want to tell Sheridan. To share this with him. And so do I.” Their eyes met. “But I can’t risk it.” Isadora sat down beside her. “I know, darling. I know. And it’s difficult. But I understand completely. And I’ll be here for you no matter what.” She hugged Diana again and stood. “I think I’m going to whip up some meatloaf for dinner.” 141

What He Wants

Diana’s lips twitched. “Have you ever cooked meatloaf before?” “Well, no.” Isadora’s eyes shined in the room. “But I’m sure I can manage.” She winked at Diana and disappeared into the kitchen. Diana stood and walked back toward her bedroom. She knew Isadora could manage anything. Her mother-in-law was gifted with many talents. She could conjure anything from a container of salt to a building. A beautiful cream-colored shed had appeared on the property the second full day Isadora was there. When Diana asked who built it, Isadora told her that she had. With help. It was the “with help” which had Diana snickering. “Darling. I’m not going to conjure a herd of cattle or anything of the like.” Isadora waved her hand around in the living room. “But I can manage the building, and no one will be the wiser. It takes a concerted effort to reach this house from the road.” Isadora paused to shudder. “That road is atrocious. I don’t suppose I could…” “No. Definitely not.” Diana grinned and shook her head. “I think the major fixing of a dirt road would be noticeable.” Isadora sighed. “That’s what I was afraid you’d say.” She shrugged and smiled. Since that day, little things would pop up all over the farm. A new flowerbed. A koi pond and small waterfall behind the house. New trees. All of the appliances in the house were replaced. Isadora would check back in with Liam every couple weeks. She always told him she was shopping or traveling. He was busy during the hunting season and then with his government. Diana knew Isadora missed him beyond 142

What He Wants

measure, but she was thankful her mother-in-law was by her side. Diana placed an ad in the local paper looking for laborers to help with the acreage. A man and his two brothers showed up the next day. Ben Masters was looking for another way to make his name in the town. His hardware store had been hit hard by the huge retail store, which moved into the next town. He lost his store after six months. Ben wanted to reestablish himself as a laborer the community could count on. Diana looked at him and his two brothers as blessings. Ben, Kent, and Mark showed up promptly at eight every morning and left at four every afternoon. And they worked on everything. Tomorrow, they would be back at the house to work on stabilizing the barn and the various outbuildings. Diana listened to Isadora hum while she made meatloaf and looked around her house. There was something missing. That was undeniable. But she had found happiness where she could. And if the hole in her heart would never heal, at least she had done everything she could for her son.

143

What He Wants

Chapter 13 Diana woke up early the next morning to the sound of Ben and his brothers driving up the road. She stood up quickly and threw a robe on. They were going to bring paint chips for the barn. After Diana decided, they would pick up the paint today and start tomorrow. Isadora was already on the front porch when Diana appeared. Her mother-in-law had on neon yellow overalls with a large, wide-brimmed hat. “I feel positively dowdy next to you.” Diana laughed and patted her loose hair that curled around her face. “I believe you’re the only one who feels that way, child.” Isadora nodded with her head at the wide smile that spread over Ben Masters’ face. He walked hurriedly toward the two women and swept his hat into his hands. “Ladies. What are the odds of having a little bit of coffee this morning?” He grinned at Isadora. “And perhaps a bit of coffee cake?” “You devil.” Isadora cocked her head to the side and smiled. “I believe you’d work for coffee and coffee cake.” She tapped Diana on her shoulder. “See if you can work out a deal.” Isadora turned on her heel and walked back inside. Ben watched Isadora walk away and then turned back toward Diana. “How are you feeling?” His gray eyes looked deeply into her blue ones. 144

What He Wants

“I’m fine. Thanks.” Diana smiled. “I’ve got a bit of a late start.” She patted her wayward hair and smiled. “You’re lovely.” Ben nodded and settled his hat back on his wayward brown curls. “After we brush hog around the barn, I’ll bring the paint chips in. It should be around lunch.” He nodded one more time and stepped off the porch. Diana’s smile was frozen on her face. You’re lovely. Two little words that sent panic through her system. She felt Isadora walk up behind her. “Calm down, Diana.” Isadora sighed. “He likes you. It’s not the end of the world.” Her hands fluttered helplessly in the air. “I’m married. I’m pregnant. I don’t understand. Is this a symptom of my pregnancy?” “Darling.” Isadora’s kind eyes held Diana’s panicked ones. “It’s human nature. He finds you attractive. Is that so hard to believe?” She stepped off the porch and took the tray to the men. Diana’s heart raced in her chest. She spun around and walked back into the house. She threw on a loose denim jumper and put her hair back in a bun. The next time Ben said something like that, she would need to straighten him out. There could never be anything between them. Her path was a solitary one. She would never hurt him the way she’d been hurt. No one should have to live with that pain. **** The next four months flew by. Ben, Kent, and Mark came by faithfully and put in their hours at the farm. The few times Ben had made personal comments, Diana was sure to let him know that she cared for him as a friend and nothing more. Slowly, but surely, she thought she made her point. 145

What He Wants

All the buildings on the farm were fixed and painted. The barn stood tall, proud, and brick red. All the fences were whitewashed. The immediate yard was fenced and also painted. A large gate was installed at the front of the property. The house was renovated from top to bottom. Diana’s pregnancy was obvious. Not only was she growing rounder by the day, her gifts were showing themselves. At night, she could hear Sheridan. Her hands moved restlessly over her body as even the sound of his voice made her ache for him. Thoughts of their lovemaking kept her awake late into the night. No matter how much pleasure she gave herself, it was nothing compared to what Sheridan had given her. Belle would watch her with sympathy, and Isadora could see the lack of sleep on Diana’s face each morning. “Darling, is there anything I can do?” “No. Thanks.” Diana tried to smile as she made her way around the kitchen. She slammed down her coffee cup and looked at Isadora. “Yes. Maybe there is.” Isadora looked up. “Yes?” “Tell me about your son. Everything.” “I don’t know if that’s a good idea, Diana.” “I don’t care.” A tear slipped down Diana’s face and dropped on her hand. “I ache for him. Isn’t that pathetic?” Isadora stood and hugged Diana to her. “Not at all.” She sighed and helped Diana into a chair. When she sat down, she met Diana’s eyes. “Sheridan and I have a strong connection. You have to understand that if I open myself to that, there could be consequences.” “Tell me.” Isadora took a sip of coffee and closed her eyes. “Sheridan is our only child. Always headstrong. Determined. Powerful. Even as a child, he could surpass his 146

What He Wants

teachers with his gifts. And when he was old enough, we told him of the prophecy. And then he changed.” Isadora looked into Diana’s eyes. “You have to understand. To Sheridan, it was a death sentence. His free will was gone. His expectations weren’t just that. They were written in stone. We lost him for a little while.” “Lost him?” Diana asked. “He shut down. Completely. No one could get through to him. Not until Trevor.” Isadora closed her eyes in pain. “Trevor’s mother was my sister. She was the one who died while pregnant. Liam and I took in Trevor. His father has never surfaced from the depths of his grief.” Diana blinked back tears. “How old were they?” she whispered. “Sheridan was thirteen. Trevor was eleven. And they became inseparable. They bonded even beyond the familial bonds. Sheridan needed someone he could trust without fail. And Trevor needed someone to look out for and guide him. They shared everything.” Diana’s cheeks colored at the memory of Trevor on his knees between her legs. She pressed her legs together to try to ease the ache that started again. Isadora smiled in understanding at Diana’s discomfort. “It is of no importance, Diana. It’s expected.” Her emerald eyes held humor. “I have no doubt that Trevor served you well.” “You could say that.” Diana shook her head in remembrance. “I thought it was a joke at first. And then I embraced it.” “Sheridan and Trevor both began to plan for the future. When Trevor turned eighteen, they moved out. The mansion was our gift to them. Liam and I stayed behind and 147

What He Wants

ruled our people. And Sheridan knew that one day he would be the one to take Liam’s place.” “Why a mortal?” The question plagued her for months. “No one knows, darling.” Isadora’s kind eyes were tinged with regret. “I’m sorry I can’t be of more help. Those words were written many years ago.” “And the ‘no sex’ clause?” “Sheridan feels our people’s emotions deeper than most. It is expected of the ruler. Liam also bears a heavy weight in his reign. When Trevor lost his mother, Sheridan absorbed a lot of Trevor’s pain into himself. And he soon began to associate sex and pregnancy with danger in his mind. That is an issue the two of you could have worked out between yourselves, given the chance. You have no idea how much it affected Liam, also.” Diana sighed deeply and she laid her hands on her stomach. Rory was moving around again, and she smiled. “I’m going to take a quick shower. Then I suppose I’ll scour the papers for cattle buys and the like.” She pushed herself away from the table and stood up. Her rounded belly was prominent below her white cotton shirt. She shuffled to her room and tried to assimilate everything Isadora told her. Maybe Sheridan didn’t have much of a choice in the matter, either. But why didn’t he say anything? Why was she always relegated to his wishes? The familiar anger surged through her, and she tamped it down. That wouldn’t solve anything, and she was sure Rory could feel it. Diana began humming and stepped underneath the warm spray of the shower. She looked at the showerhead and sighed deeply. It was sad when all her pleasure came from a bathroom appliance. Diana washed herself and then took the showerhead off the wall. For a minute, she let herself remember what it felt 148

What He Wants

like to have Sheridan in her body, pleasuring her. The way his tongue felt against her throbbing clit as he spread her legs wider. His mouth on her breasts as he sucked on her hard nipples. Diana’s legs trembled as she worked the spray between her legs and threw her head back. Every nerve was on edge, and she moaned deep in her throat. Sheridan. His hard body slamming into hers. His mouth against her skin. Her legs wrapped around his waist. She cried out as she came over and over again. Diana barely grabbed the ledge of the tub before her knees completely gave way. It was as if he were there with her, and her body throbbed in pleasure. Diana regained her composure and stood shakily. She wrapped the peach bath towel around herself and squeezed out her wet hair. The long, red locks now curled past her shoulders. Diana glanced at herself in the mirror and wondered if she should have her hair cut. It had been a long time since she let her hair grow out. She slid her feet into her slippers and started back toward the living room. “Isadora,” she called. “Can you cut hair, too?” Her eyes widened. And then she stopped in her tracks. Sheridan was sitting on her sofa talking to his mother. His dark gaze lifted and pinned her with its intensity. He stood slowly and walked purposefully toward her. “Diana,” he whispered. His right hand came up to cup her cheek, and she struggled with what to say. He stepped back and looked at Diana’s belly. Sheridan struggled with words as his hands came out to touch her. His touch was feather light as he stroked her abdomen. When his eyes met hers, Diana felt her world shift. Sheridan still had the same hold on her. Even now her body 149

What He Wants

was reacting to his presence. And so was her son’s. Rory kicked against his father’s hands, and Sheridan drew in a shaky breath. His eyes widened as evidence of his son could be felt. Diana stepped back. “How did you get here?” She glanced down at Isadora, and the older woman shook her head. “I had nothing to do with it, darling.” “You called me.” The anger burst through Diana with electric force. “Like hell I did.” She stepped back even farther and clutched the towel to her chest. “You want to use and discard me like trash.” Her blue eyes flashed in her pale face. “You don’t understand.” “Explain it to me,” Diana challenged. “And I’ll know if you’re lying.” Sheridan walked back and sat by his mother. “You know who we are.” He stated the fact and waited for Diana to acknowledge it. At her nod, he continued. “Rory’s birth was prophesized. Only when I mated with a mortal would he be created to lead our people.” “And the mother would be tossed away and made to forget she ever had a son.” Diana’s voice was harsh and bitter. Sheridan winced at her tone. “You have to understand, Diana. Our people are proud. They don’t accept outsiders. And I’m afraid they wouldn’t treat you very well. I was trying to spare you the pain.” “Spare me the pain?” Her voice shook with disbelief and anger. “You wanted to spare me the fucking pain? How kind. How noble. And how utterly pathetic.” Diana clenched her fists and tried to remain calm. “You gave me 150

What He Wants

no choice. You would drug me and use me to meet your ends. How is that humane?” “Please, Diana.” Sheridan’s voice was soft. “I’ve made a mess of things.” Isadora stood up and glanced between her son and her daughter-in-law. “Yes. You have. And you need to fix it. How do you propose to do that?” “I’m open to suggestions.” Diana studied him closely. “How did you find me?” “Your pleasure. I was almost blinded by it.” His words brought a flush to her cheeks as she remembered her orgasms in the shower. “I see.” She pulled the towel tighter around her body. “I’m not going back with you. Nothing will change. You don’t respect me enough as your wife to trust I can take care of myself.” Sheridan stood with lightning fast speed and scowled. “You are my wife. You will be by my side.” Diana shook her head. “But will you be by mine? I don’t trust you, Sheridan. Every action you say you would take in my best interest will harm me.” Isadora held up her hands. “I will have people take care of the farm. Diana, you and I will go back to the mansion. Sheridan, you will not do anything to Diana against her will. Nothing. And if I hear that Trevor gives her the serum, there is no place you can hide that I won’t find you.” She patted her hair and smiled. “And I will act as a chaperone. Just in the interest of fairness.” “Mother…” Sheridan began. Isadora waved her hand, and his mouth snapped shut. “I want to know how to do that.” Diana looked at her husband and smiled grimly. “All in good time, my dear.” Isadora shooed Diana off to her room to change into some traveling clothes. When 151

What He Wants

she was sure Diana was out of earshot, she scowled at her son. “There is only one way to fix this. And you had better figure it out before it’s too late.”

152

What He Wants

Chapter 14 They arrived back at the manor a couple of days later. Miles met them at the front door, and he was more than delighted to see Diana. He ushered her inside and promptly fixed her a snack and a drink. Miles never once looked at Sheridan, and Diana found it vastly entertaining. She thanked the butler repeatedly and smiled. Trevor walked into the front room next and came over to Diana immediately. He sank to his knees in front of her and placed his forehead on his hands. “Please forgive me.” Diana touched his head gently and sighed. “I forgive you, Trevor. Am I assured you will never attempt this again?” “I promise, Diana.” She nodded regally, and Sheridan watched in amazement as his staff treated her like royalty. His heart pounded fiercely in his chest. And all he wanted in the world was to gather her close and to feel her sweet body next to his. Liam marched out of the library and stopped abruptly in front of his wife. His jaw dropped open in surprise at her attire. “What is this you’re wearing, wife?” He looked Isadora up and down. She had chosen to wear lime green overalls with daisies printed on them. “This is farm wear. I was helping Diana.” “You lied to me about your whereabouts.” 153

What He Wants

Isadora lifted her head. “I did. It needed to be done.” Her emerald eyes looked into her husband’s. “And I’d do it again.” Liam pulled Isadora to him tightly and shook his head. “Tell me where you are next time, woman.” He pulled back and touched the buttons on the front of the overalls. “How do you take this off?” Isadora’s lips twitched as she took his hand. “I’ll show you.” Diana watched the two of them disappear into the bedroom at the back of the house. She refused to meet Sheridan’s eyes. They were alone in the room now. Diana stood slowly and began walking toward the stairs. She could feel Sheridan’s eyes on her. “Diana.” His soft plea of her name almost undid her. She turned slowly and met his eyes. “I never meant to hurt you.” She accepted his words with a nod and walked up the stairs to her room. Belle was already on her bed, washing herself. Her luggage had been emptied and put away. And now Diana was right back where she started. **** Diana spent the next month walking the grounds and wondering where she went wrong. Her hands rested comfortably on her belly, and she grinned. Rory was a feisty one. He would calm only when she would sing or hum to him. Belle followed Diana everywhere and took on a roll as watch kitty. Miles would feed Belle when he made Diana her meals. Diana quit eating with Sheridan. She flatly refused to be in the same room as him and give him an opportunity to drug her with the elixir. 154

What He Wants

The first two times she refused to dine with him, he flew into a rage. Diana simply looked at him calmly and then left. The third time, he was simply resigned. He was the one who left the table. She didn’t take any comfort in knowing she could make him leave. Diana’s heart broke every time she saw him. That wasn’t very much these days. He and Trevor would spend most days locked up in the offices working. Even now, at more than eight months pregnant, her body tightened in awareness. She still desired him with every part of herself. Sheridan was miserable. She was miserable. What would happen when Rory was born? Diana strolled the gardens and found an oak bench to sit on. The sun was shining down, and she closed her eyes. Rory was quiet of late. He usually saved his acrobatic acts for around bedtime. But the past week, his movements were slower and slower. She stroked her stomach and hummed under her breath. Belle jumped up on the bench and put her paws on Diana’s stomach. And then it happened. Diana’s eyes widened in disbelief as she felt her water break. Belle looked at her calmly, but Diana felt anything but calm. Rory would be two weeks early. What if something was wrong? She forced herself to calm down and simply thought Sheridan’s name. He showed up exactly two seconds later with a question in his eyes. That question was answered when he saw the wet area underneath the bench. Sheridan quickly scooped her up into his arms and rushed her back toward the house. Diana’s heart pounded in her chest. She wrapped her arms around his neck and laid her head against him. He kissed her forehead and hurried forward. 155

What He Wants

Trevor, Miles, and Isadora met them at the back door. Miles boiled water while Isadora settled Diana into a bed in a spare room. Sheridan and Trevor paced the floor while watching Diana. When the contractions started, her breath caught in her throat. The pain. It was light at first. Just squeezes that she could feel deep in her back and belly. But then it grew worse. Rapidly. Diana bit back a groan as the contractions piled on top of each other, not letting her catch her breath. Isadora spoke softly into her ear, and the pain eased a bit. Sheridan stroked Diana’s head and tried to comfort her. When it was close to time, Isadora looked at Trevor. He quickly excused himself. Sheridan’s face was bone white as Diana struggled with the pain. “You,” she said through gritted teeth, “are a bastard.” “I’ve been told.” Isadora watched them both and shook her head. “Diana. It’s almost time. Rory is beginning to crown. I’m going to tell you when to push.” “You’re going to tell me?” Diana’s voice was full of disbelief. She winced as another contraction lanced through her belly. “Damn both of you.” Isadora placed both hands on Diana’s stomach and closed her eyes. She said a few words that Diana roughly translated into Welcome, child. We have been waiting. “Now,” Isadora commanded. Diana bore down and cried out at the pain. There was tremendous pressure. And then it was gone. Isadora took the baby and held him up. Diana felt the tears rush down her cheeks. Her son. Rory was perfect. He had a dark black crown of hair and the darkest green eyes she had ever seen. He looked at his 156

What He Wants

parents with wise eyes. Diana held her arms open, and Isadora placed her grandson in them. Sheridan cradled Diana to his chest while he softly stroked his son’s crown of dark hair. “He’s beautiful.” “He’s perfect,” Diana said softly. Isadora left the room quietly while the parents studied their son. “Diana…” Sheridan began. “Not now.” Diana unbuttoned her nightgown and brought her son to her breast. Rory latched on greedily, and Sheridan’s breath caught in his throat. The sight of his wife’s body stirred his own, even now. How he had missed her. Ached for her. He felt her every time she pleasured herself. His nights were torture without her. How many times had he woke with her name on his lips? “Later,” he promised. But he knew that the conversation they would have would change his life forever. **** Rory was a healthy baby, and he had the whole household on his schedule. When he was awake, the entire staff doted on him. His family coddled him shamelessly, and he was always happy. Liam and Isadora left when Rory reached two months old. Liam had taken Sheridan into the conservatory to talk to him. Diana watched them go with trepidation. She knew what was being said. Sheridan must take over ruling his people. She brought her son closer to her chest and patted his back softly. His soft baby smell tickled her nose. The two of them slept in her room. She refused to let Sheridan see how much she still loved and wanted him. Her pride simply refused. Diana still declined to take any food 157

What He Wants

or drink from him. The only conversations they had centered around their son. Diana looked up as Liam briefly hugged his son and walked back toward his wife. “Come, love. We must be going back home. We’ll see Rory in another month or so.” Liam walked over and kissed Rory’s head softly. And then he bent to kiss Diana’s cheek. “Be well.” Her eyes grew moist at his soft words. Isadora stepped forward and hugged her son. She whispered something in his ear, and he shook his head slowly. And then she walked over to Diana. Her arms folded around Diana and embraced both mother and child. When she drew back, her emerald eyes sparkled with unshed tears. “We’ll back in a month. You take care of my grandson.” “I will,” Sheridan and Diana spoke in unison. There was an uncomfortable silence, and Trevor cleared his throat. He quickly hustled Liam and Isadora outside to their waiting car. He had volunteered to chauffeur them home. As soon as the front door shut, Diana took a deep breath. She turned slowly and looked at her husband. Instead of calculation, she saw desire. His eyes were as black as midnight and the need was stark on his face. Diana’s breath hitched as she felt her body respond. How long had it been? Months? An eternity? The entire room disappeared as their eyes met. Rory’s even breathing against Diana’s chest told her he was asleep. Sheridan held his arms out, and Diana placed their son into them. He quickly strode up to Diana’s room and turned the monitor on. He walked slowly back down to her and held his hand out. 158

What He Wants

Her entire life. Her decision. Everything rested on her action at that moment. Diana placed her hand in Sheridan’s and let him lead her to his room. She walked into the bedroom and noted that he had changed the entire look. It was softer somehow. Some of the colors were more muted than bold. Shades of blue and green dominated, but they were tempered by pieces of yellow. The curtains were lighter and let more natural sunlight in. “You’ve changed your room.” “It reminded me of you.” The husky words made Diana shiver. “And that was bad?” Her words were teasing. “Torture,” he admitted heavily. Diana turned to Sheridan and moved closer. His arms came around her like steel bands. She could hear his breath grow ragged, and she smiled. “Miss me?” The evidence was pressed up against her as they stood there. Diana’s hands moved between them and stroked his hard cock. Sheridan moved closer to her and clutched her hair in his hands. “You’re killing me, Diana.” His voice was husky. “I could feel your body tighten when you pleasured yourself. I wanted to be with you so badly.” “Shhhh.” Diana placed two fingers against his lips. “Don’t talk. Show me. Show me what you want to do to me.” Her body throbbed in expectation. Sheridan lowered Diana back on the bed and joined her. He began by kissing her softly. But the taste of her skin drove him to madness. He pulled Diana on top of him and ripped open her blue silk shirt. Buttons flew everywhere. 159

What He Wants

Diana grabbed Sheridan’s hands and put them on her breasts. “Sheridan, please,” she moaned. She ground her hips down on him and rocked back and forth. He reached up and tore her bra in half and replaced his hands with his mouth. Diana cried out as his mouth closed over her sensitive nipple and he swirled his tongue around it. Her hands fisted in his hair as need slammed through her. Sheridan pushed Diana’s skirt up around her waist and tore at her panties. He undid his pants with one smooth motion and freed his hard cock. He arched his back and pushed himself deep inside her. Diana’s body shook as Sheridan worked his hard cock in and out of her pussy. He kept his mouth on her breasts as they rocked back and forth. And then he brought his right hand down and rubbed her hard clit with his fingers. “You’re so wet, Diana,” he whispered against her throat. “I love the way you feel against my fingers. I love feeling your pussy tighten around my cock when you come. I love to fuck you.” At his words, her first orgasm slammed through her with a stark viciousness that had her screaming. He never let her catch her breath. Sheridan continued to work his fingers against her and his cock into her. Diana’s breath trembled in her throat as Sheridan continued to pleasure her body ruthlessly. “I want it all, Diana.” Sheridan’s muscles bunched with the effort of controlling himself. His body strained against Diana’s. “Come for me again, Diana. Come for me.” This time Diana felt her body slowly climb toward her orgasm. The sensation of Sheridan’s cock working against her still throbbing clit made her moan deep in her throat.

160

What He Wants

Diana bent down and whispered in Sheridan’s ear. “Fuck me harder, Sheridan. If you want me to come, then make me.” Sheridan rolled Diana onto her back and pistoned in and out of her with quick rhythm. She wrapped her legs around him and pulled him closer. “Yes,” she called out. “Yes. Harder.” He moved his body quicker and quicker as Diana watched his face begin to tighten. Soon. She reached up and traced the curves and planes of his face with her hand. So beautiful, her husband. So beautiful. “Diana.” His voice was harsh in the room. “Diana.” Sheridan came inside her body and trembled with the force of it. Her body went liquid at the sound of her name on his lips. Yes, she thought. Again. Diana felt herself come and pushed her body tighter and tighter against Sheridan’s. He groaned deep in his throat. “Witch,” he muttered. “In a good way?” Diana stroked his damp hair and smiled. “The best.” His dark eyes found her blue ones. Sheridan stood slowly and walked to the biggest dresser in the room. Miles must have brought in the drinks earlier. Juice and champagne were placed by two glasses on the golden tray. Sheridan poured two glasses and brought them back to the bed. Diana took hers and lifted it up, as if in a toast. Sheridan did the same and kept Diana’s gaze as he drank from the glass. She nodded her head and drank deeply. She gave the glass back to Sheridan and lay back on the bed. 161

What He Wants

“Diana.” His voice was soft in the room. “You trusted me.” “Yes, my love.” Her blue eyes opened to study him. “I trusted you. And what did you give me?” Sheridan put his knee on the bed and leaned forward. “A drink. Nothing more.” Diana opened her arms and pulled her husband into them. I know. The unspoken words slammed through Sheridan, and his eyes widened. He scrambled off the bed quickly. Diana? Her lips twitched as she regarded her stunned husband. That look was one she could get used to. She reclined back on the bed with a smug look on her face. Sheridan, I love you. “Oh my God!” His voice trembled in the room. He quickly jumped on the bed and gathered Diana into his arms. What happened? How can you know my thoughts? I don’t understand! Sheridan’s voice was bewildered in her head. “It seems your son decided to gift his mama with a couple things.” Diana pulled back and beamed up at her husband. I trusted you. And you trusted me. Her eyes looked deeply into her husband’s. Tell me. “I love you, Diana.” He held her tight. “I love you. Even without the gifts, you’ve given me everything I’ve ever needed.” “And your people?” It was a question that needed to be asked. “Our people.” Sheridan’s hands enclosed Diana’s. “Our people. They will love you as I do.” “And if they don’t?” Diana tried to keep her voice steady. 162

What He Wants

“You are my queen. My world.” Sheridan brought her hands up to his mouth and kissed them. Stay with me, Diana. I need you. The words wrapped around her heart and squeezed gently. She opened her mouth to respond when Rory’s cries filtered through the baby monitor. You and I have a date later, husband of mine. Diana smiled as she stood up. Make sure you keep it. She sauntered out of the room to the sound of Sheridan’s laughter in her head.

163

ABOUT THE AUTHOR C’ann Inman is an Oklahoma author who loves to spin wild and wicked stories for her readers. She realizes that romance can be found in many places and many ways. Her stories celebrate the sensuality of relationships. Her first short story, Naughty and Nice, will be released in the Winter Wishes Anthology from Whiskey Creek Press Torrid January 2006. Her second short story, Intervention, will be released in the Spring Flings Anthology from Torrid April 2006. Her first full novel, What He Wants, will be released in June 2006 from Torrid. C’ann loves to hear from readers. You can visit her website at http://chryswriter.tripod.com/cann_inman

For your reading pleasure, we welcome you to visit our web bookstore

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com