Table of Contents

- Chapter One

- Chapter Two

- Chapter Three

- Chapter Four

- Chapter Five

- Chapter Six

- Chapter Seven

- Chapter Eight

- Chapter Nine

- Chapter Ten

- Chapter Eleven

- Epilogue

- Loose Id Titles by Abby Wood

- Abby Wood

Twice Her Age

Copyright © July 2010 by Abby Wood

All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the purchaser of this e-book ONLY. No part of this e-book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without prior written permission from Loose Id LLC. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author's rights. Purchase only authorized editions.

eISBN 978-1-60737-823-5

Editor: Crystal Esau

Cover Artist: Valerie Tibbs

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Published by

Loose Id LLC

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www.loose-id.com

This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

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Chapter One

The click of her high-heeled boots against the concrete floor of the parking garage echoed an ominous warning. She inhaled through her nose and pulled the edges of her soft pink blouse together more. It did no good to get excited over a blind date.

“Remember, I’m not asking you to fall in love with the guy.” Cheryl bumped her hip against Debbie’s hip. “Just have a little fun.”

She ran her fingers under her eyes and hoped she didn’t have raccoon patches. All she wanted to do is go home and curl up on the end of the couch. Thank God it was Friday and she had the weekend to recover. Here she was, twenty-five years old, and the two-year-old tots at the preschool where she worked ran her ragged most days.

“I think you’ll really like him. He works with Gary.” Cheryl gave a little hop and walked backward so they could talk face-to-face. “Did I tell you he’s taking me away next weekend? Our first real commitment that this is the real deal we’re fooling around with.”

Debbie raised her brows and smiled. “Yeah, so you said. I’m happy for you.”

“But…?” Cheryl dropped back beside her and continued walking.

She sighed. “Look, Cher, I’m not too sure about tonight. I’m not big on blind dates. They never work out.”

Not only that, the men her friends picked out for her never did a damn thing for her. She wasn’t interested in partying at the bar or going to their houses to sit back and count how many times they could yell at the referee on television about the bad job he was doing on the football game.

“Here’s the deal. If this guy is a creep…I’m out of here.” She pulled back her shoulders and waited for the pedestrian light to change. “I’ll just call a cab to take me home, so it doesn’t mean you have to stop your night with Gary.”

Her friend shook her head and stepped off the curb. “Fine, but I think this guy is right up your alley.”

“That’d be a surprise,” she muttered.

Cheryl opened the door to McAllister’s Bar and Restaurant, a high-class lounge on Fifth Avenue, and let Debbie enter first. “I’m going to run to the little girls’ room before the guys get here.”

She nodded. “I’ll wait in the bar for you. Grab me when they get here.”

“Don’t disappear on me.” Her best friend narrowed her eyes. “You promised.”

Debbie smiled. “Wouldn’t dream of it.” Waving her hand, she motioned for her to go. “I’ll give him the five-minute test. Go. Go!”

Smiling at the hostess standing guard over the customers waiting for their turn for an available table in the restaurant, she slipped up the stairs into the bar. She squeezed between the bodies standing around drinking, mingling, and approached the bar.

The bartender shot her a wink and held up one finger, signaling he’d be right over to take her order. She laid her clutch on the bar and slid atop a stool to wait. One little glass of Irish cream and she’d find the strength to go through with dinner. After that, no promises.

The good-looking bartender with his short-cropped hair and black tie danced over and leaned across the counter. “What can I get you, beautiful?”

“Irish cream caramel on ice, please.”

“Make that two, and I’ll pay for the lady’s drink.” A low, husky voice over her shoulder raised the hair at the back of her neck.

The bartender nodded. “Comin’ up.”

The man stood close enough that his body brushed the back of her hair, and a shiver raced up her spine. A whiff of cologne came off him, and she closed her eyes to inhale. Drakkar.

Microorgasmic by his scent alone, she feared facing the man and dashing her pleasure with reality. Probably an out-of-shape divorcé whose main goal it is to see how many phone numbers he can get in a single night.

“Is this seat taken?”

She sighed and glimpsed a strong masculine hand pointing at the bar stool to his left. She shook her head. Get ready for the lame-ass pick-up line. One, two, three…

The man sat down and remained silent. Although, the heat from his gaze warmed her skin. She squirmed on the stool. His lack of conversation piqued her curiosity. If he bought her a drink, wasn’t he going to try to flirt a little?

The bartender returned with two small tumblers filled with rich, creamy-colored liquid swimming in ice. She smiled and picked up the glass. The least she could do was acknowledge the man.

“Thank you for the drink.” She turned, and the sip she was preparing to take never met her lips.

Dark haired with a sprinkle of silver at the temples, the man wore sexy like a second skin. Black slacks with a white silk dress shirt against his tan skin screamed sophisticated…and dangerous. She pegged him at forty-eight, maybe fifty years old, because of the lines at the outside edges of his dark brown eyes.

He lifted the corner of his mouth, a very tantalizing mouth with full lips, and showed a hint of a teasing manner. “Go ahead, take a sip.”

She raised the glass and let the ice-cold liquor coat her tongue. Her eyelids fluttered at the rich, decadent taste. Between the allure of the older man, the cologne he wore, and the taste of her favorite drink, she’d be surprised if she didn’t leave a puddle of pussy juice on the bar stool.

“Again.” He lifted his glass, daring her to follow his order.

Her nipples hardened under the almost see-through blouse. His gaze swept down and settled on her reaction to him. Not wanting to disappoint, she savored another mouthful. Holding it on her tongue, she moaned softly. Oh God, this is wicked.

“Good?” His lips curved as he stared at her mouth.

She shuddered under his gaze. “Y-yes. Delicious.”

“Are you here with someone?”

She gazed at the way he raised his arm and brought his drink to his mouth. He held the glass under his nose, inhaling the sweet aroma before gently setting the rim against his lower lip. Her lower stomach quivered, and she found herself leaning forward, closer, to take in the way the tumbler caressed his lips before he swallowed.

He smiled. The lines at the corner of his eyes crinkled in amusement. “I take it you’re here by yourself?”

Oh God, he’s left me speechless. What do I tell him? “I came with a girlfriend, but she’s meeting her boyfriend for dinner.” She glanced across the bar. “I decided to have a drink before joining them.”

“Excellent. I’d love to share your company, and maybe we can get to know one another?” He gazed around the room. “I’m glad I decided to stop in and have a drink before heading home.”

Nodding, she smiled. Could he be more perfect for me?

“Deb.”

She slowly turned around and found Cheryl standing in the bar, frowning. Wrinkling her nose, Debbie knew her friend wasn’t going to like hearing that she changed her mind. She’d go a year without dates to continue sitting at the bar with the promise of seeing Mr. Sexy again, if only to soak in his presence for a little longer.

“The guys are here, and there’s a table ready for us.” Her friend glanced over at the man beside her and quickly ignored him. “Get your ass off the stool, girlfriend, and let’s go.”

Debbie sucked her bottom lip in and caught it between her teeth. “I—”

“She’s staying here.”

Cheryl’s head shifted on her neck, and her eyes widened. “Excuse me? I don’t believe I was talking to you.” She pivoted and turned her back on him. “Why is this old dude telling you what to do? What’s going on, Debbie? I thought you said you’d give the guy Gary’s bringing with him a chance.”

“I…I changed my mind.” She gave a short laugh. “I’m sorry. Things have changed.” Looking over at the man, she smiled. “Go on without me, Cheryl. I’ll make this up to you. I swear.”

Cheryl leaned in and whispered in her ear, “He’s twice your age. Are you drunk?”

She threw back her head and laughed. “Not at all. For the first time, I’m doing exactly what I want.”

“Unbelievable.” Cheryl gazed at both of them, scrunched up her face, and shook her head. “Freaking unbelievable.”

Her friend walked off without a backward glance. She swallowed. She’d make Cheryl understand later.

They’d known each other since college, but it was hard for her to explain to Cheryl about her attraction to older men or her lack of desire for someone her own age. It wasn’t like she went out of her way to turn younger men down. She didn’t understand the whole dynamic of finding herself drawn to men twice her age herself half the time.

Debbie swiveled back around. The man held out his hand. Her hand automatically lifted. Her fingers were swallowed up in the size of his gentle hold.

“Mick…Mick Reed.” He turned over her hand, brought her palm up to his lips, and kissed the sensitive skin.

Oh. My. God. I want to fuck this man.

“Deb…Debbie Nordall.”

He set her hand on the counter of the bar and nodded with that knowing smile. “Finish your drink, Debbie Nordall. I’ve got plans for you.”

She raised the glass. Her hand shook. The ice rattled against the sides.

After swallowing, she hurried to lick her upper lip. “Plans?”

Mick tipped back his head and finished his drink. Leaning forward, he removed a wallet from his back pocket and set a twenty-dollar bill on the bar under his empty glass. “Do you like water?”

“Mm…” She lowered her gaze. His slacks hugged his thighs, showcasing hard, powerful muscles that screamed to have a woman’s hands on them. “To drink, swim, or play in?”

He chuckled. “None of the above.”

The heat of his stare forced her to swallow the rest of her drink. She set it down on the bar. Narrowing her eyes, she tilted her head. “There’s something about you…”

He curled his lip and leaned closer. “Tell me.”

Deb shook her head and gazed down at her hands. This is crazy. I’ve wanted a man like this forever. I’ve fantasized about this very thing happening to me repeatedly, and yet… God, should she really follow him and find out what he planned?

Not sure if the alcohol made her freer with her thoughts or the man himself, she leaned toward him. Nose to nose, she whispered, “You turn me on.”

He blinked, and without losing eye contact, he stood up and leaned over. “I know.”

“I can’t believe I’m doing this.” She raised her brows and bit down on her lip. “Do you mind if I find my girlfriend, see if she’ll listen to me, and explain that I’m leaving with you?”

“No, of course.” He cupped her cheek and strummed his thumb over her lips. “Tell her we’ll be at the Betlow Marina, slot forty-two and I’ll make sure you get home safely. I can even give her references to call, if she wants to check me out.”

“I don’t think I have to go that far.” She grinned. “Thank you.”

Standing up, she gazed up at him. “I’ll hurry.”

“No rush. We’ve got all night.” He winked.

Chapter Two

After throwing the third and final mooring rope up on the top deck, Mick leaped onto the yacht. He set about preparing to shove the Crystal Belle away from the dock and out to sea. In his quest to take Debbie out on the open waters, he kept close watch out of his peripheral vision at the way she sat back and let him do his job. It’d do no good to lose her interest now, when she’d behaved so beautifully at the bar.

Tall and confident, she’d strolled through McAllister’s Bar in complete control. Her long legs loose, her shoulders back, and that lengthy blonde-streaked hair beckoned him with each womanly toss of her head. Young and moldable, she presented everything he wanted in a lover.

Those baby blue eyes begged for attention. He could almost smell her arousal. She hid nothing from him. Not her desire, her curiosity, or the way her body hummed in his presence. One little touch from him and she’d scream out his name in pleasure. He was sure of it.

This time of night, the water lay crystal black butting up against the dark sky. With no other boats out running, he had the waterway to himself and enough privacy for Debbie to forget everything else but the feelings they shared. Lifting his head, he studied how fresh and youthful she appeared peering out over the water. An urge to protect, care for, and guide her through life swept over him.

Damn. She’s perfect.

Even more important, his cock pressed stiff against the inside of his pants, wanting to show her how wonderful they could be together. Moreover, he was just the man to teach her how fulfilling a relationship with him would be. He could give her everything and she would want for nothing.

He shut off the yacht’s engine and pushed the button to drop the anchor. Far enough away from shore, he’d let the boat float with the movement of the water. It was time to spend some time with the lovely Debbie in the moonlight. With romance, kisses, and wine, he’d show her the stars.

After grabbing a bottle of wine and a blanket from belowdecks, he returned topside. “Scoot over, love. Let me squeeze in here with you.” He set the bottle between the seat cushion and his hip, opened the blanket, and tucked it around her legs. “That’ll keep you warm.”

“Thank you.” She sighed. “It’s so beautiful out here.” She glanced up and smiled. “Did you know this is my first time out on the water? I’ve never been out on a boat before.”

“But it won’t be your last.” He twisted off the lid of the wine. “Open up.”

She sat up straighter and opened her mouth. He lifted the bottle to her plush lips. His cock pulsed at the vision she created. She appeared so willing and eager, he found himself in a constant state of arousal.

The soft slope of her neck was exposed to the moonlight. White, creamy satin from her delicate chin down to her cleavage brought his attention to how lovely her flawless skin must feel to the touch. Her body appeared so smooth and silky, he hoped to taste every bare inch sometime tonight.

Her lips pliant and willing to accept anything he offered, he lifted the bottle to her mouth again. He’d like nothing more than to have her between his legs, on her knees, taking the head of his cock into her pouty little mouth.

The sway of the yacht caught him off guard, and wine dribbled down her chin. She raised her hand to catch the trail of liquid. He stopped her.

“Let me.” He leaned over and ran his lips, his tongue, along the curve of her bottom lip. He groaned. “Delicious.”

“You’re awful sure of yourself. How do you know there will be a next time?” She lowered her gaze. “We’ve just met.”

“A person knows when they are compatible with the opposite sex, don’t you think? The moment you turned on the bar stool and thanked me for the drink, I knew I wanted to spend time with you.” He picked up her hand and laid it on his chest. “It takes a special woman to grab my interest the way you did.” Mick stroked the length of her thigh.

She sighed, and her legs under the blanket quivered beneath his hand. “Oh God, this is too good to be true.”

“What are you doing for the next…oh, thirty years or so?” He trailed his mouth around her ear, gathered the soft lobe between his teeth, and nipped.

“Years?” She sucked in a breath.

He chuckled under his breath at how shaky her voice had become. An innocent kitten, so easy to manage, yet so loving and willing to please. “Yes. Years. I don’t think tonight is going to be enough time to enjoy everything we have to offer each other.” He sat back. “You fascinate me.”

She raised a hand to the delicate skin above her collarbone. “We’ve just met. I don’t know anything about you.”

Mick nodded. “I’m forty-nine years old. A semiretired CEO of a handful of companies that I have other people run on a daily basis. I own my own home, the yacht, and a house in Hawaii. I don’t play games. I want you.” He kissed her lips. “Trust me, love.”

She inhaled through her nose and blew out a big breath through her puckered lips. “I can’t just—”

“You can.” He lifted the bottle of wine to his lips, drank, and stretched his legs out in front of him. “You will.”

She laughed self-consciously. “You can’t be so sure that I’ll jump into a relationship with you. I have a job, my apartment, bills to pay…” She threw up her hands. “My own life. I can’t—I’ve just met you. We might lead two different lifestyles.”

“Trust me, love. I’ve lived more years than you have. I know exactly what I want. I think you knew that the moment I bought you a drink at the bar. You’re independent, but I saw the way you appraised me and concluded that I was a man who could take care of you, show you the pleasures of life, cherish you. I know, because it’s the way I feel about you.”

“But I can’t—” She sat back and gazed up at him with huge trusting eyes.

“You say that word too much. You should strike the word can’t from your vocabulary. Instead, say you can.” He stood up and held out his hand. “Come with me. Let me show you something.”

Frowning, she moved the blanket off her legs and let him pull her to her feet. He led her to the front of the yacht, where the bow came to a point. He positioned her over the water and set her hands up on the polished wooden bar.

“Stay.” He stepped back.

She turned her head and glanced over her shoulder. “Where are you going?”

“I’m right here.” He twirled his finger in the air. “Turn around and close your eyes.”

Debbie followed his orders. Her hair blew back in the breeze coming off the water and reminded him of a ribbon floating away in the wind. He must pin her down before she too drifted away.

“Are your eyes shut?”

She nodded.

“Keep them closed. Don’t open them.” He stepped up behind her.

Despite her long, lean body, the top of her head barely reached his chin. He ran his hands along the sides of her ribs, her waist, and settled on the flare of her hips. Jesus, that little indention fit the size of his hands perfectly. Ideal handles to hold her steady as he watched his cock slide into her pussy from behind.

“Pay attention to how your body reacts to my hands.” He slid his hands down the sides of her legs. “I can feel you come alive and tremble under my touch.”

She inhaled deeply and let her head fall back on her shoulders.

“That’s it. Just let yourself enjoy the way I can make you feel.” His lips skimmed the sensitive skin between her shoulder and neck. “How does that feel? Good?”

“Mm…” She leaned back against his chest.

He wrapped one arm around her waist, the other around her upper body, and cradled her close. “It’s a beautiful night. Look out across the water.”

Debbie’s hand caressed his arm. “Yes.”

“It’s up to you, love. Will you trust me enough to make this a night you’ll never forget?”

Her fingers tightened, and she pressed her ass into the front of his slacks. “Oh God, yes.”

Kissing her shoulder, he let his arms fall and then stepped back away from her. “Stay right there. Don’t move.” He slid his hands into his pockets and rubbed his lips together. “You are exquisite.”

He sunk his hand into her thick locks. “Ready?”

She nodded, keeping her back toward him.

“Take off your blouse.”

She squeaked.

“No, don’t hesitate. Take it off and throw it into the water.” He waited, but she didn’t move. “Now, baby.”

Her arms rose, her hands moving to the front of her shirt. She blew her breath out. He smiled. She wanted this. Hell, he wanted this.

In slow motion, she rotated her shoulders enough for her to slide the blouse off her back. He moaned. Finally, he’d be able to view those nipples that tempted him earlier through her blouse.

She flung the material over the railing. Standing with the water for a backdrop, vulnerable and unsure, she presented the picture-perfect woman to have in his life.

“Are you wearing panties?”

She shook her head.

“Good. I like that.” He stepped back again to get the full view of her body. “Slip off your skirt and toss it overboard.”

This time she didn’t hesitate. She reached behind her, unbuttoned the waistband, and unzipped the skirt. She lifted first one dainty bare foot, the other, and then stepped out of her last piece of clothing.

A full, voluptuous ass shone pale in the moonlight. Even with the shadows up on deck, the heart-shaped outline of her derriere greeted him. Her body matched from the shape of her lips to her ass. What other surprises did she have hidden?

Mick stepped up and pressed his body against her back. Those killer legs of hers placed her ass and his cock in perfect alignment. He wrapped his arms around and under her breasts, pulling her snug against him.

Molded tight with her trembling body, he kissed the soft curve of her shoulder where it met her neck. “You please me.”

“Mick…” She covered his forearms with her hands. “Please…”

He moved, slipped an arm under her butt, and cradled her to his chest. She wrapped her arms around his neck and gazed up at him with a smidge of trepidation.

“I’m going to fuck you.”

She gasped and sucked in her bottom lip, catching it between her teeth. His cock pressed painfully against his slacks. He couldn’t wait to possess her body and show her how good they’d be together.

“Tell me, love. This is the only time I’ll ask you.” He stopped at the top of the stairs leading belowdecks to the bedroom. “You only have to say the word, and I’ll do everything in my power to make you happy. That, I can promise.”

Debbie tilted her head back and gazed up into his face. He watched the way her light blue eyes flickered back and forth, studying him. He dared not breathe and spoil the moment.

“Fuck me, Mick,” she whispered.

He captured her mouth with his, stepped down the stairs, and set her on her feet. Pulling out of the kiss, he stepped back and unbuttoned his shirt. She reached out to help him, and he dropped his hands, pleased to know she needed this the same way he did.

After kicking off his pants, he moved over to the bedside dresser and opened the drawer. He removed a condom and ripped the foil package open with his teeth. Debbie stepped over to the bed and crawled on her knees.

“No.” He motioned for her to come back. “I want your hands to put this on me.”

Debbie’s hands shook, but she managed to roll the condom onto his cock. “I’m on the pill, but thank you for doing this for me.”

His knees threatened to buckle at the first brush of those long, thin fingers around his width. The overpowering urge to teach and care for her consumed him.

She straightened and stood in front of him. She obediently waited for his instructions. He’d not let her suffer for long.

“Tell me what you want, love.”

“Touch me.” Her nipples hardened.

He kept his distance. “Be specific.”

“I…I don’t…know.” She bit down on her lip.

He hooked his finger under her chin and lifted. “You do know. Say it.”

“Fuck me.”

“How?” He crossed his arms. “You have to tell me.”

She closed her eyes and swallowed. Her throat muscles constricted, and he about jumped out of his skin imagining what it would feel like to have his cock in her mouth.

“Hard, fast…” She opened her eyes. “Make me come.”

He stepped toward her and pinned her against the wall. Holding her hands above her head, he lifted her leg, and then plunged his cock into her tight, hot pussy.

“You only need to ask.” He thrust and grunted.

Debbie gasped. He filled her up, possessed her body, and took all control away from her. This was what she craved. He had known it from the moment she walked into the bar.

Mick drove his cock into her hard. He bucked her against the wall repeatedly with each plunge.

“Yes!” Her eyelids fluttered under the pleasure. “Oh. God. Yes!”

“Come.” He captured her mouth, swallowed her scream, and gave her a taste of what she did to him. “Come.” Grinding his pelvis against her clit, he held her flat against the wall. “Come.”

With a surge of energy, her body stiffened, convulsed, and shuddered through her orgasm. Her shoulders arched off the wall, and sweet spasms clamped down around his cock. He thrust one more time and came. He groaned at the way her breasts rose and fell against his bare chest, stimulating him further.

Her head fell forward onto his chest in sweet surrender. The soft, warm puffs of air from her mouth caressed his body. Somehow this young woman had wrapped her arms around his heart, and he didn’t want to let her go.

“Let me take you back to my home, please. I feel that we’ve only begun to uncover what we have between us.” He lifted her up into his arms. “Now, let’s find you something to wear for the ride, and then I promise, I’m going to strip you naked again the moment we step inside my house.”

She snuggled against him and laid her head in the soft nook of his neck. “Please.”

Chapter Three

The drone of the water running in the shower shut off. Debbie hung up the phone, untangled her legs out from under her, and walked into the master bathroom. It felt good to talk to her mom and share her excitement over meeting Mick.

He stood naked in front of the mirror, rubbing the wetness out of his hair with a towel. She leaned against the door frame and crossed her arms. God, the man looked stunning.

“Hey, you.” Mick tossed the towel toward the clothes hamper. “Did you have a nice talk with your mom?”

She nodded. “I told her all about you, and she said to say hi. She said she hopes we’re still together when she and Dad come back to the States. Mom sounded really happy that I’ve found someone so perfect for me.” She wrapped her arms around his lean waist. “Mm…you smell good, all soapy and clean. Are you sure we shouldn’t stay in tonight?” She kissed his cheek. “From the sound of it, it’s pouring outside.”

He chuckled and pecked her lips. “Nope. I’ve got to drop off paperwork at the corporate office, and I think you deserve a dinner out.” He stepped around her and walked into the bedroom. “Don’t worry about changing. The way you’re dressed is fine for what I have planned.”

Debbie gazed down at her baggy fisherman’s sweater and the jeans tucked into knee-high boots. “Are you sure? You could always drop me at my apartment, and I could pick something else up. A skirt, at least.”

“No. You look beautiful in what you’re wearing.” He smiled.

She’d stayed at his house all week, driving back and forth to work, and living out of a couple of suitcases. Most of the clothes she had with her were more suited to wearing to work than going out on the town. She sighed.

“How did you end up so successful in business?” She flopped on the bed and leaned her head on her elbow. “Do you know how lucky you are not to have to get up early every morning and work your ass off to barely pay the bills?”

Mick pulled a belt through his jeans. “You don’t have to work, love.”

“It’d be foolish to quit my job after knowing you a week.” She wrinkled her nose. “That’s not what I’m talking about, anyway.”

“Well, I spent my youth working round the clock. I gave up a lot of things to have what I have today.” He held up two oxford button-down shirts. “Which one—white or dark blue?”

“Mm…” She pursed her lips. “The blue one. Do you ever regret giving certain things up?” She sat up on the bed and wrapped her hands in the extra material of her sweater.

He shook his head. “It’s all in the past. You’ve got to move on.” He hesitated and cocked his brow. “We’re still talking about my life, right? You’re not having second thoughts about moving in here?”

She waved her hand in the air. “Not me. Just curious about you. What you were like at my age.”

“That long ago? I barely remember.” He chuckled. “My memories are a little fuzzy.”

She threw a pillow at him. “You’re not that old!”

“Almost twice your age.” He leaned over and nuzzled her neck. “I’m like a fine wine.”

She purred. “Hm, what a coincidence. I happen to love wine.” She placed a hand on the zipper of his jeans. “Maybe you’d let me have a sip?” She wiggled her eyebrows.

He lifted his arm and glanced at his watch. “Got to make it quick, baby, before my secretary leaves for the day.” He unlatched his belt and his jeans, and pulled them down.

“Oh, lookee there. Mickey isn’t happy.” She pouted. “Let me see if I can do something about that.”

She slid off the bed and knelt on the floor. She curled her fingers around his cock and brought him closer. The powerful ability to bring him around full circle and pleasure him always gave her such a high of contentment.

Her lips sealed him in her mouth. She sucked and stroked the underside of his cock with her tongue. Mick’s hand came down to caress the side of her head. Opening her eyes, she gazed up into his face and winked.

“That feels real good.” He arched his hips forward and gazed down at the way his cock grew in her mouth. “See. You please me. Always making sure I’m satisfied.”

His flaccid organ pulsed and hardened in her mouth. Moving back and forth, she lubricated the length of him with her tongue. A tremor ran through her lower belly, and she widened her legs. An urge to rub her pussy flitted in her thoughts, but this was about Mick. She wanted to do this for him.

“Deb…baby?” He laid his hand under her chin. “What’s wrong?”

She slowly withdrew her mouth off him. “Nothing. Why?” She ran her finger from the base to the tip of his swollen head.

“You whined.” He tugged on a strand of her hair. “Tell me why.”

Licking her lips, she glanced at the way she fondled his shaft. “This excites me.” She gathered a drop of precum on the tip of her finger and raised it to her lips. “A lot.”

“Ah.” He stepped back, fisted his cock, and stroked himself. “Wiggle your jeans off your hips, baby. I’ll take care of you.”

She shook her head. “B-but, we’ll be late.”

“It doesn’t matter. I’ll drive fast. We’ll make it. I promise.” He motioned for her to stand up and move over to the bed. “Do what I said, Deb. Let me please you too.”

Standing up, she unzipped her jeans and shimmied them down to her knees. She penguin-walked forward and giggled.

“Not exactly a smooth, sexy move.” Debbie sucked her bottom lip in and caught it between her teeth.

He moaned. His fingers tight around his cock, he continued to caress the length. “Anything you do for me is a beautiful thing.” He walked over to the dresser, opened the top drawer, and removed a vibrator and a tube of lube. “This might help.”

He came back to her and held up a pink plastic cock. She squeaked. It was J shaped, and she had a notion where the stubby end went.

She’d never had any anal play before. Unsure whether to speak up or remain silent, she bit down on the inside of her cheek and waited to find out what he had planned. What if he laughed at her naïveté?

“Bend your legs and open up a little.” He cupped her mound. He slipped his middle finger between the folds and twiddled her clit. “Mm, I wish I had time to lap at that cream.” He replaced his hand with the vibrator. “Relax.”

The rounded tip glided into her wetness. She grabbed his wrist. “Wait.” She sighed. “I’m not sure about this. I’ve never…had anything…in my ass.” Wrinkling her nose, she let go of his hand. “Will it hurt?”

“Not if you want it.” He leaned over and kissed her. “The small plug is about the size of your pinkie.”

She nodded. “Okay, but slow.” Inhaling deeply, she scrunched up her nose. “Sorry.”

“About?” He moved the vibrator in and out of her pussy, not yet entering her anus.

“Not having any experience doing this…butt stuff before.” She laid her hands on the top of his shoulders. The coolness of the lube on his finger surprised her as he circled her anus. Her knees shook. He’d turned on the vibrator, and it sent delicious tingles throughout her pussy.

“Concentrate on the way your body blooms and opens with the hum caressing your clit, your pussy, your anus.” He pressed the vibrator up to her tight hole. “Bear down on it like you’re trying to force it out of your body, baby.”

She swallowed, concentrated on following Mick’s directions, and tightened her stomach muscles. The plastic toy slid past the ring of her anus and gave her a full feeling.

“Oh.”

He grinned. “You won’t have to bear down quite so hard next time. You’ll get used to it and subconsciously prepare that part of your body for the pleasure that follows.”

“Mm.” She wiggled her hips a little. “Mick?” She leaned forward and wrapped her arms around his waist. “Oh!”

“You like?”

Words failed her, and she nodded. Her legs clamped together to keep from losing the delightful pleasure she was receiving from the vibrator.

“You are so sexy. Give me your hands, baby.” He gave them a squeeze. “Keeping your legs together, kneel down and sit on your ankles.”

She followed his directions and pressed her knees together. Not wanting to have the vibrator slip out, she smiled at reaching the floor without losing it.

“Oh.” Her hands shook, and she let go of his hands to grasp his thighs.

“I love the way your lips form a nice little puckered circle when you do that. So sexy.” He ran the head of his cock across her lower face. “One day soon, I’ll take that virgin ass. It’ll be mine. Only mine.”

Mick slipped his cock between her lips. She sucked greedily. The feelings welling up inside of her pussy drove her forward.

Picking up speed, she ran her lips, and her tongue up and down his cock, never breaking the suction hold she had placed on him. Her ass ground against the back of her heel, putting more pressure inside her anus and manipulating her pussy.

“Oh, baby.” He threaded his fingers through her hair and pumped his shaft in and out of her mouth. “Be a good little girl and suck me hard. I want to feel your mouth loving me when you come.”

Unable to hold back, she writhed at his feet. Her fingers dug into his muscled thighs. The swirl of heat between her legs grew warmer.

“Come, baby.” Mick groaned and dropped his hands to his sides. “Suck me.”

She never broke the rhythm he set up. The head of his cock hit the back of her throat, and she swallowed.

“Swallow. It. All.” He tipped his pelvis forward, stood on his toes, and came in her mouth.

She moaned. In a flash, her lower muscles seized in an orgasm that sent her sailing. Her mouth muscles tightened down and drank every drop of cum he deposited at the back of her throat.

Mick shuddered and staggered back to collapse on the side of the bed. She rose up on her knees, reached down, and removed the vibrator. She tossed the toy to the pile of her dirty clothes beside the dresser and crawled over to Mick. She laid her head in his lap.

“Like it?” Mick ran his hand over her hair.

She nodded. “I’d like you to fuck me there, I think.”

“Yes.” He groaned and rubbed the back of her neck.

She opened her eyes but left her head on his knees. “When?”

He chuckled. “First. Let’s go eat.”

Chapter Four

Mick shut the passenger-side door of the car, hustled around to the other side, and climbed into the driver’s seat. Debbie crossed her legs. Either his secretary had a huge problem with her, or she was hell to have as an employee.

“All set. Time to grab something to eat. I’m starving.” He cranked the key, shifted, and pulled away from the curb. “How about you? Hungry?”

She waved her hand. “What’s up with that bitch of a secretary?”

His eyebrows rose, and he glanced over at her. “A little harsh, Deb. She’s worked for me for over twenty years, very efficient, and she never misses a day of work.”

“Hm.” She tightened her mouth. Then the old biddy didn’t like me.

Shrugging the woman’s hostile attitude off, she shifted in her seat. “Where are we going for dinner?”

“There’s a popular place over on Thirteenth and Dogwood Street. I haven’t checked it out yet, but I hear it has great burgers.” He flipped his turn signal on.

“The Roadhouse. I’ve been there.” She leaned forward and gathered her hair over to the side. “You sure you want to go there? The music’s loud and…”

He set his hand on her leg. “And what?”

“I don’t know. Doesn’t seem like a place you’d want to go to. That’s all.” She patted his hand. “I’m game, if you are.”

“Good!” He pulled in to the parking lot.

Debbie stepped around Mick and entered the restaurant ahead of him. The place was packed. The place was set up as more of a bar-style establishment where people mingled from table to table in one huge partylike atmosphere.

The waitress smiled up at them, and Mick held up two fingers, letting her know they needed a table for two. She motioned for them to follow her. Debbie slipped her hand under Mick’s arm.

“Thank you.” Mick held her chair out and took two menus from the waitress.

Between the music, people’s conversations getting louder, and ordering, Debbie sat back and took in the place. She’d figured Mick for the sits-off-to-the-side-and-wants-to-have-a-quiet-dinner type of guy, since he’d always taken her to more upscale restaurants the few times they went out for dinner.

Mick ordered for both of them, waited for the waitress to leave, and relaxed back in the chair. He was oblivious to the other women’s coy smiles and eye contact, and that said a lot about a man.

“What are you smiling about?” He lifted his water and took a sip.

She winked. “You.”

“Good.” He grinned. “I’m glad I make you smile.”

Watching people dance on the other side of the room, both of them fell into a comfortable silence. Debbie swung her leg under the table to the beat of the music and accidently kicked Mick in the shin.

“Sorry.” She wrinkled her nose.

He shrugged it off. “Did you want to dance? We haven’t done that before, but I can hold my own on the dance floor.”

“Oh, you can, can you?” She cocked her head. “Show me after we eat.” Grinning, she leaned forward. “We’ll see if you can keep up with me.” There, she had issued the challenge.

Mick chuckled and leaned back at the arrival of the waitress with their dinner plates. “Ah, looks great. Thank you.”

The woman smiled and left them alone to enjoy their meal. Debbie lifted her sandwich to her mouth, and two arms came from behind to capture her.

“Hey!” She pushed against the hug, turned, and gave a little squeal. Setting her food back down, she stood and engulfed the other woman in a hug. She hadn’t seen Jen since she married and quit working at the preschool.

“How are you?” Swaying back and forth in a hug, she smiled at her old friend. “What are you doing here? I thought you guys moved to the Bay Area?”

Jen stepped back and nodded. “We’re just visiting family while we travel back from Vegas. I never dreamed I’d find you here.” She turned to Mick. “I’m sorry for interrupting. You must be Deb’s dad.”

Mick cleared his throat. The corner of his mouth lifted. “No, she’s—”

“No! Of course he’s not my dad. He and Mom are still vacationing and living it up.” Debbie tittered, and she hurried to change the subject, lest Jen embarrass Mick more. “Look at you! You are looking fabulous. Married life is good, huh?”

Jen didn’t answer but continued to gaze over at Mick with a stunned expression plastered on her face. Debbie’s heartbeat raced, and she was sure her face was turning redder going by the temperature of the room getting hotter.

“So…is Michael here with you?” Deb touched her arm.

Her friend jumped. “Yeah! Yes, he walked out to the car already. I saw you on our way out and told him to go ahead.”

“It was really nice to see you. Next time you come through San Francisco, give me a call.” She hugged Jen again.

“Okay. Yeah, I’ll do that.” Jen kissed her cheek, and walked away, but glanced back, shaking her head.

Debbie sat back down at the table, hurried to take a drink of water and catch her breath. Mick probably felt like crawling under the table. Good God, why couldn’t Jen have kept her mouth shut!

Not sure what to say, she picked up a french fry and lifted her head. Mick lowered his brows and sat watching her.

“Wow, this place is busy.” She fluttered her hands in front of her. “What were you saying before Jen interrupted us?”

He glanced over at the others in the restaurant, turned back to his plate, and lifted his burger. “Drop it.”

“What?” She wiped her hand on a napkin.

“I said drop it.” He nodded at her food. “Eat up, and then we’re going home.”

Her appetite disappeared. How could he be mad? He wouldn’t even let her apologize for her friend’s rudeness. No, he just shut her up and ended the discussion.

He’s treating me like a child!

Debbie placed her napkin in the middle of her plate, scooted her chair back, and left the table. She didn’t stop until she reached Mick’s car. Crossing her arms, she leaned on the car, stuck out her lower lip, and blew the hair out of her eyes.

“Drop it. Eat. We’re going home,” she muttered. “Argh… Is it my fault Jen’s a complete moron who opened her stupid mouth before thinking?” She let her head fall back, closed her eyes, and wished the whole thing had never happened.

* * *

Mick pushed through the door of the Roadhouse and stepped out on the sidewalk. He inhaled a huge breath to calm down. The little minx deserved a spanking.

Her refusal to acknowledge their relationship hurt, and her childish behavior by storming out of the restaurant plain pissed him off. A band of worry constricted around his chest. She needed time to adjust to their relationship, but he wasn’t playing around. Hell, he didn’t have time to fool around with these silly games.

The sooner she learned that, the better.

Rounding the corner of the building, he didn’t break his stride. He hit the remote for his car and frowned at the way Debbie jumped at the sound of the locks popping.

He opened the passenger door. “Get in.”

She stomped her foot but moved to sit down without getting mouthy. He crossed in front of the vehicle, got in, and started the car without a word. He let her stew in her own juices. The sooner she learns to accept our relationship and everything that comes along with it, the better.

Heavy sighs filled the small enclosure every mile he drove. He counted in his head to keep from lecturing. If she was trying to get him riled, she was doing a damn fine job of it. Luckily, she must have sensed his patience was up, and cut the dramatics the rest of the way home.

Back home, he parked the car in the garage and let his hands fall off the steering wheel. “Why?”

Debbie stared at him and remained silent. The heat of her gaze pierced a hole through him.

Without answering, she climbed out of the car and marched to the door to wait for him to unlock the house. His reaction time slowed down with the shock of how much temper she displayed. It took him a few seconds to work up enough steam to follow her.

The second he’d pushed the door open, she stormed past him into the foyer.

Mick caught her in the kitchen, scooped her over his shoulder, and carried her down the hall upside down. She screamed, and he answered with a smack on her pretty little heart-shaped ass.

“Hey!” She stiffened.

He chuckled. “If you want to act like a child, I’ll treat you like one.”

Flipping her onto the bed, he followed her down and captured her hands above her head. “Grow up.”

She snorted. “You’re one to talk. It wasn’t me who got upset because someone mistook me for your parent.” Glaring at him, she refused to back down. “I saw how Jen’s comment upset you. You can’t deny that! If I could have stopped her from asking the stupid question, I would have. The last thing I want to happen is for you to feel uncomfortable in public with me.”

“It wasn’t your friend’s innocent question, but your reaction.” He lowered his face until he was nose to nose with her. “You wouldn’t admit I was your boyfriend, that you belong to me. If you are ashamed of our relationship”—he jerked his head—“there’s the door, sweetheart. I don’t have the time or patience to wait for you to grow up enough to handle a mature relationship.”

“You’re crazy!” She struggled against his hold. “I’m not embarrassed. I was protecting your feelings, jackass.”

He dragged her arms farther up on the bed. Growling, he claimed her mouth. The anger, the struggle, the fiery temper fueled his desire to put her in her place. She belonged to him, and she’d better learn that fast.

Debbie’s thrashing around the mattress ended, and she melted underneath him. He ground his cock into the apex of her thighs. He broke away from the kiss.

“You need a spanking, baby.”

Chapter Five

Mick gazed down at her with heavy-lidded eyes. She closed her mouth and bit down on her lower lip. The thought of his big, rough hand slapping her bare ass caused a pleasurable thrill to spread in her lower region.

“I’ve been bad?” She pouted.

He nodded. “Very bad.”

She stifled a giggle at the way Mick cocked his eyebrow. She could play this game.

“But…I didn’t mean to make you mad.” Arching her chest up off the mattress, she moaned. Unable to move with his hands holding her down, she shivered with excitement. Giving him control over her pleasure left her free to concentrate on all the wonderful ways her body hummed from his attention.

Mick pulled up into a sitting position. “Pull your pants down and lie across my lap.” He patted his legs. “I’ll teach you not to hide our relationship.”

“I—That’s not what—”

“Shush.” He pointed at his lap. “Get over here and take your punishment.”

Debbie scrambled off the bed, unzipped her jeans, and pulled them down under her butt cheeks. Mick held out his hand and helped her lie across him. Her pussy dampened at the very vulnerable position she found herself in.

Running his hand over her bottom, he caressed each cheek, paying close attention to every inch of bare skin. She squirmed. Unable to take the teasing, she wished her pants were off and she could open her legs wider.

Slap.

Debbie flinched. Squeezing her eyes shut, she waited out the sting. In a few seconds, a delightful warmth spread out from the area Mick had swatted.

Slap.

She gasped and held her breath. Mick’s hand rubbed over her cheek. Her skin pulsed from the punishment.

Her exhalation deflated the tension in her body, and she moaned. His fingertips teased the sensitive nerves around her anus. Oh God.

“Your skin is nice and pink. Two plump, round targets with a nice little surprise in the middle.” He ran his finger down the slit of her ass. “Baby, you make me harder than a rock thinking of putting my cock inside that virginal hole.”

“Do it, Mick.” She moaned. “I want to give it to you.”

“You’re not ready yet.” He laid his thumb over the tight ring, pressed down, and swatted her ass with his other hand. “Soon.” His hand came down again and left a delicious jolt. “I’m going to prepare you to take me. Every day.” He rotated his thumb. “That way it’s all pleasure, baby.”

Her anus throbbed. She’d had no idea her body would react this way. “Mick…” She groaned. “Oh God.” Squeezing her legs together put pressure on her clit, and she almost came. “I’m going to…” Her breath came out harsh. “Mick!”

He slapped below her buttocks. Her body convulsed in rolls. Her orgasm built up slow, and then exploded deep inside of her.

“That’s it, baby.” Mick never let up on her anus. “Good girl.”

Panting, she finally inhaled and relaxed against his legs.

“Your pussy juice is dribbling out.” Mick moved his hand down and ran his finger along her lips. He spread her cream all over her slit. “Here, let me help you sit up.”

She swung her legs over the side of the bed. “But…what about you?”

“Patience.” He popped a finger in his mouth and sucked the taste of her off. “I plan on taking my pleasure with you.”

Mick moved over to the dresser. “Ah, here we go.” He held up a short plastic toy. “This will help stretch you.” Turning her around, he chuckled. “You really are innocent in a lot of things, baby.” He ran the butt plug along her slit. “You’re so wet, it’ll slip right inside you.” He placed the plug on her anus and wrapped his arm around her waist. “Just like before. Bear down.”

She visualized that part of her body relaxing, opening, and accepting him. “Oh!”

Mick chuckled. “God, you’re adorable.”

“That feels really…different.” She shifted from one foot to the other. “It’s going to stay in?”

“Yep.” He moved his hands up inside her sweater and cupped her breasts through her bra.

She laid her head back against his chest. Her body melted under his touch. What other new things would Mick dream up for them to try?

“I have a couple of bigger plugs in the drawer. Tomorrow, after you get home, I want you to insert one and wear it around the house.” He tugged at her hardened nipples. “The next day, you’ll go up to the next size.”

She rubbed her ass against the front of his jeans. His aroused cock was evident in the ridge that fit along her crack. “What do I do the day after that?”

Mick lowered his head and nibbled her earlobe. “On that day, you’ll come home, and I’ll fuck your ass.”

She shivered. “Oh.”

“Mm.” He stepped back, unzipped his pants, and guided her to bend over in front of him. “I love when you do that.”

“Oh.” She gasped and held on to the bed as he slid his cock into her cunt.

With the plug in her anus and his dick thrusting into her pussy, she forgot to breathe. “Oh. Oh. Oh.”

“That’s it, baby.” He grasped her hips and pulled her back. “Fuck. You’re tight.”

“Oh. God.” She clawed at the bed to stable herself. “I’m going to”—she blew out her breath—“burst.”

“Do it.” Mick grabbed the back of her sweater and sped up. “Come on my cock.”

“Ohhh…” She bucked against him. “Now…” Her anus and pussy pulsed together in one huge spasm. The pressure with both her holes plugged gave her an unbelievable high.

“Ah…” Mick thrust and held still.

Warm shots of cum heated her womb. Her legs shook with the aftershocks of the orgasm coursing through her body.

“That was incredible.” She hung her head down and closed her legs, keeping Mick buried deep inside.

“Sweet.” He rubbed the sides of her hips. “So sweet, baby.”

He slid out of her cunt and groaned. She sighed with contentment and stood up, happy to hear she had worn him out.

After removing the plug, she pulled up her panties and jeans and leaned over to give Mick a kiss. “Thank you.”

He collapsed on top of the bed. “It’s only going to get better.”

“Promise?”

Mick nodded. “Yeah, just no more tantrums, or I’ll have to spank you again.”

She bit down on her lower lip. “Uh, about that… You do know that a spanking isn’t going to stop me.” She shook her head. “I pretty much spilled my juice when you swatted me.”

“Go take a shower, baby.” He playfully slapped her ass. “It’ll give me time to come up with a different kind of punishment for when you’re naughty the next time.”

* * *

Debbie carried the laundry basket cradled against her hip and tossed in more clothes she picked up around the room. She grinned. Mick’s elegant master bedroom looked more like a college dorm with all her clothes scattered around everywhere.

“Hey, Mick.” She walked over to the bathroom, peeked her head in, and whistled. “Look at you, looking all businessy and sexy.”

He winked at her in the mirror. “I’ll be gone this morning but will be back before you get off work.”

“Okay.” She held up the basket. “I have an hour until I have to leave. I’m going to throw my clothes in the washer. You have anything you want washed?”

“No, go ahead.” He turned, stepped over, and stole a kiss. “Why don’t we grab the rest of the things at your apartment this weekend?” He slipped past her and picked up his keys. “How much longer are you tied up in the lease?”

“I’m not.” She leaned against the wall. “I had a year’s lease, but it’s expired now. I’m on the month-to-month rental plan from here on out.”

“Great.” He flipped his keys in the air and caught them. “We can clear the place out and turn in your notice.”

“Why would I do that?” She set the basket down. “Isn’t it a little early in our relationship to make such a huge permanent decision? What happens if this doesn’t work out between us? It’s not easy finding a place in this city. Plus, I can still make rent and stay here too.”

Mick frowned. “It will work out, baby.” He shook his head. “Do this for me. It’s important.”

“Why?”

He crossed the room, stroked the lengths of her arms, and smiled. “Because it is… I told you, I don’t play games, and I want us to commit one hundred percent to our relationship. You know how I feel about us.”

She nodded.

“Okay, then. I’ve got to head on out.” He pecked her lips. “I’ll see you tonight.”

She remained against the wall after he left. Staring at the empty doorway, she sighed. This wasn’t the first time he had demanded she give up her apartment.

Pushing off the wall, she bent down and lifted the basket. Not understanding why this seemed so important to him, she went downstairs to throw her laundry in the washer. She’d figure out what to do later.

Chapter Six

“Nathanial, put down the puzzle.” Debbie rushed over and held her hand out. “Thank you, kind sir.” She grinned at the little boy’s giggle. “Now go join the other kids around the circle. Mrs. Mead is going to read another Dr. Seuss book, and I know how you like those.”

She slid the wooden puzzle board into the proper cubbyhole, tiptoed along the perimeter of the room, and slipped out the door. “Whew! I think half of those kids are still working their Halloween candy off.”

Her friend Juanita pursed her lips and stared her down. Debbie threw up her hands.

“What? Do I have finger paint all over my face?” She scrubbed her cheeks with the back of her hand.

“No, girlfriend, but that mock collar isn’t hiding that love bite on your neck.” The other assistant teacher leaned forward. “You still seeing that old dude?”

Debbie snorted, sank down to the floor, and leaned against the wall. “Oh, stop it. He’s not that old.”

“He’s twice your age.” Juanita sat down beside her. “Lordy, girlfriend, you could have anyone you wanted.” She shook her head. “Why saddle yourself with someone who wants to stay at home and tend his garden?”

“You don’t know Mick at all. He’s not like that.” Debbie sighed. “He completes me. I love the stability, attention, and maturity he brings into my life.”

“I don’t know,” Juanita scoffed. “Maybe you just need to hop on a plane and go visit your daddy for a little while.”

“Okay, that wasn’t fair.” She crossed her arms. “Besides, Mom and Dad are living it up, and I wouldn’t dream of slowing them down. They both deserve to travel and enjoy life after putting in all those years raising me.”

Both of them fell silent. Deb sighed. She didn’t understand the way Juanita judged Mick for his age.

“Why don’t you like him? Do you see something that I can’t see? He’s a great guy—successful, confident, secure in our relationship.” She turned her head toward Juanita. “It hurts that you and some of my other friends aren’t accepting him.”

“You seriously don’t get it?” Juanita pursed her lips. “What kind of guy hooks up with a girl young enough to be his daugh—”

“It’s not like that.” She slapped a hand down on her thigh. “God, that’s pathetic. You know me. Can’t you have faith in my decisions? I’d never settle down with someone whom I didn’t love with my whole heart. Hell, my track record should show you that. I never even get past the stage of dating, much less talk about committing myself to a relationship.”

“Fine. I apologize. I’m cranky today.” Juanita leaned back and closed her eyes. “God, I can’t wait for Friday to arrive so I can find a new place to live.”

“Why? I thought you just moved,” she asked.

“I did, but I didn’t realize how hard it would be to sleep with a bar below my room.” Juanita clenched her hands in front of her. “All night. Boom. Boom. Boom.”

Mick’s asking her to move into his house completely came back from this morning. She chewed the corner of her cheek.

Debbie sat forward. “You know what? I have the perfect solution.” She grabbed her friend’s hand. “You can have my apartment.”

“Girl, I’ve been in your apartment. We’d have to sleep on top of each other.” Juanita raised her eyebrows. “I don’t wiggle the sheets that way.”

“No.” Debbie scooted around to sit in front of Juanita. “I’ve been staying with Mick. He wants me to get rid of the apartment and move in with him permanently, but this is better.” She tossed her hair behind her shoulder. “He has this idea that I need to get rid of the apartment anyway to show him I’m making a full commitment to him, but my parents didn’t raise a dummy. Our relationship is too new. I can’t throw away everything I’ve worked for until I know this is the real deal.”

Juanita laid her hand on Debbie’s arm. “You sure? What if he dumps you for someone…older?”

“Not funny.” She rolled her eyes.

“Hm…” Juanita slowly nodded, seeming to think about the offer. “Are you absolutely sure you want to do this?”

“Positive.” She leaned forward and held out her hand. “But if Mick asks, tell him I gave up the apartment, ‘kay? I’ll tell him the truth once I can think clearly and know that nothing will ever break us apart.”

Juanita smiled and shook her hand. “Deal.”

* * *

Debbie managed to open the door despite the bag in her arms. “Mick!” She bent over and dumped her belongings on the other boxes at her feet. “Anyone home? A little help here, please!” She stumbled over a suitcase and yelped.

“Deb?” Mick hurried to the foyer. “What are you doing, baby. Did you fall?”

“You think?” She laughed and held out her hands. “Help me up.” Pulled to her feet, she turned and looked at the mess. “I never realized I had so much stuff.” She pivoted and flashed him a grin. “There’s even more in the car.”

“How?” He shook his head. “Why?”

She kicked the bag out of the doorway. “I took off from work a couple of hours early and closed up the apartment.”

“Dammit. You should have called. I could have loaded all this for you.” He picked up the box. “You shouldn’t have to do this all by yourself. I would have helped you get everything moved over here this weekend.”

“Well, it’s done.” She grabbed another bag. “I’m exhausted.”

“Just leave everything right here. I’ll go get the rest of it and put it in the corner somewhere until you decide where to put it all.” He leaned over and gave her a kiss. “Mm. I missed you.” He pointed into the house. “Go take a shower, relax, and when you’re done, I’ll whip you up something to eat. You’ve probably worked up quite an appetite with all this moving.”

“I’m not going to argue with that.” She gave him another kiss. “Thanks, Mick.”

Debbie climbed the steps to the bedroom, threw her clothes off, and stepped into the bathroom. She reached for the drawer where she kept her hair clips and froze. Tonight’s the night! She’d forgotten all about it.

Yesterday she’d worn the largest size butt plug, and Mick had promised that tonight he’d take her virginity. She shivered and hurried to start the shower. With all the importance he had put on letting go of her apartment, tonight’s plans had completely escaped her.

She pinned up her hair, grabbed a towel out of the cabinet and hung it over the bar, and stepped into the shower. Moving under the stream of hot water, she closed her eyes. Was she ready for anal sex? So far, she’d only worn something that didn’t move. What was going to happen when Mick plunged his much bigger cock into her?

She shivered, and her nipples hardened. She grabbed the soap and her net scrubber and lathered it up good. Running the scrubber over her body, she sighed. She was ready. Even when she wasn’t properly stretched the way Mick wanted her to be for her first time, the desire to have Mick fuck her that way had simmered beneath the surface. She trusted him and couldn’t wait to find out how it would feel to have his hard cock up inside of her anus instead of a butt plug.

Turning, she rinsed off all the suds, flipped the water off, and reached up for the towel. Drying off, she hurried into the bedroom when her stomach growled. Forgoing clothes, she put on her robe and headed back downstairs.

Mick stood at the stove and raised his head. “Hungry?”

“Starved.” She scooted onto a bar stool and leaned over the plate on the counter. She sniffed. “Chicken stir-fry?”

“Yep. Leftovers from my lunch.” He poured her a glass of water and set it beside the plate. “Eat up. I ate a sandwich earlier, so it’s all yours.”

Mick moved back and leaned against the counter on the other side of the kitchen. She picked up her fork and dug in.

Nodding her head, she pointed at the food with her fork, swallowed, and moaned. “Really good.” She lifted another forkful. “How did your meeting go?”

He crossed his legs and watched her eat. “Good. I might have to swing down to Costa del Mar in a couple of weeks and talk to one of the contractors, though.”

She covered her full mouth with her hand and said, “Oh, I hear that place is beautiful. It has all those old buildings along the waterfront that sell art from all the independent artists in the area. They say it’s a regular gold mine to have your work showcased there.”

Mick nodded. “I want you to come with me.”

“Shut up!” She set down her fork. “I already took my one week of vacation this year to spend with my parents the last time they came back from their travels.” Lifting her glass, she frowned. “I would have loved to go with you, though. This is a real bummer.”

“Quit your job.”

She swallowed wrong, coughed, and patted her chest. “I can’t do that. College costs big bucks, and I want to go back and finish my degree.”

“I told you that I will do everything possible to make you happy. If college makes you happy…great. We’ll talk about it all later.” He pushed off the counter and straightened.

Debbie carried her plate to the sink, washed her hands, and stood in front of Mick. Sliding her arms around his waist, she cuddled up in his arms.

“Don’t be mad.” She rubbed her breasts against him and grinned. “I’ll make it up to you.”

He sighed. “I know you will.” She pinched the side where he was ticklish, and he squirmed. “I like your kind of torture.”

“I want to hear about the deal with your apartment. Is this you finally realizing that I want you around forever?” He cupped her face and studied her. “I’m falling in love with you, baby. You have to realize that by now.”

Her lips curved into a smile. “I feel the same way, Mick. It’s crazy to think I had this idea growing up that I wanted what my parents had—commitment, stability, a tangible love that everyone saw.” She licked her lips. “I knew I wanted those exact things.”

“Have you found them?” He rubbed her back.

She nodded. “No one understands why I’ve always found myself attracted to older men. I didn’t want guys my own age who drank too much and stayed out all night with their friends.” She rolled her eyes. “I wanted someone who could treat me like I deserve to be treated. How you do.”

“Let’s go lie down, baby. I have an urge to put you up on a pedestal tonight.” He let her go, picked up her hand, and led her to the stairs. “Have you remembered what we planned to do?”

A thrill traveled from her lower stomach to her pussy. “Yes.”

Mick let go of her and moved right into removing his clothes. She slipped out of the robe and tossed it toward the closet. She loved how he always undressed slowly, folded his clothes, and set them on the dresser. Meticulously neat, he never ragged her about her sloppy housekeeping.

“Grab that wooden stool, baby.” He stepped out of his slacks. “Go ahead and set it over there in front of the mirror.”

Debbie carried the backless stool over and sat on it. She set her feet on the bottom rung, put her hands between her legs, and leaned forward. Mick undressed and moved about the room with grace and dignity.

His whole charisma shone through, and she couldn’t help the fascination that came over her as she studied his debonair ways. “This is what I mean.”

Mick strolled over to her. “What are you talking about?”

“All the people who judge me for my attraction to you.” She placed her feet on the floor and stood up in front of him. “Everything about you turns me on. You’re stable, secure, confident—gorgeous.” She ran her hand down his cheek. “I feel your love.”

“Deb—”

“No. Let me explain. I’m not in this relationship needing love.” She trailed her finger over his lips. “I have everything I want. Yet you enrich my life more than I ever dreamed, being with me, loving me.”

“Thank you.” He brought her mouth to his and kissed her.

She shut her eyes, and she melted under the tenderness of his lips. Mick trailed kisses down her chin, along her jaw, and enveloped her in his arms. She swallowed past the lump of emotions welling up inside.

“I love you, baby. Don’t ever doubt that.” He stroked the back of her head and pressed her against his chest. He chuckled. “We’re quite a pair. Both of us wanting someone unique for different reasons and lucky enough to find each other in this lifetime. I say we deserve everything we’ve found.”

Basking in the glow of sharing their feelings, of connecting with someone on almost a spiritual level, and reluctant to break the physical bond between them, Debbie remained in his arms. Mick’s hands roamed her back. She hid her smile. Despite the sentimental moment, Mick’s cock hardened against her lower stomach.

Chapter Seven

Debbie slid her hand in between her and Mick’s bodies. Wrapping her fingers around the base of Mick’s cock, she stroked the length of him. Excited all over again for what they’d planned tonight.

“Stand on the top of the step stool, baby,” he said.

Not wanting to let go of him, she led him by his dick. After stepping up on the stool, she turned and held on to his shoulders.

Mick gathered her hand and kept hold of it as he moved behind her. “Bend over and hold on to the stool.” He clamped his hands around her knees. “I won’t let you fall.”

Wobbling, she bent forward and wrapped her fingertips under the seat. “Mick?”

“I’ve got you.” He squeezed her legs. “Scoot your feet apart until you feel the edge of the stool.” Not letting her fall, he waited until she was comfortable. “Hang on.”

Mick’s tongue slid along her slit. She squeezed her eyes shut. The swarm of pleasure and her precarious position tilted the room.

“Oh!”

Mick groaned against the lips of her pussy. He slipped his tongue into her wet hole and fucked her. She gasped. The danger of falling and yet trusting Mick with her safety heightened the thrill.

Lifting his head, Mick zeroed in on her anus. Her legs shook with the intensity of all the different sensations she received. Her desire to fulfill Mick’s dream of taking her virginity rushed to the forefront.

“Mick?” She opened her eyes. “Please.”

He helped her straighten and find her balance, then guided her off the stool. After leading her over to the bed, he steered her down onto the mattress. “I want to fuck that wet pussy first.”

She opened her legs, and Mick licked his way up her body. Latching his mouth on to her nipple, he gently rubbed her clit with his fingers. She moved her hips in lazy circles, letting the warmth and delight build.

“Mm…yes.” She squirmed underneath him. She pushed her fingers through his dark hair. “That drives me wild.”

Mick lifted his head and moved up farther. His cock slid into her cunt in slow motion. One inch at a time, she stretched and accommodated his size.

“I want you to”—he thrust his hips back and forth in tight succession—“work your clit.” He held his weight off her with his arms. “Come for me, baby.”

She slid her middle finger over her clit, and shuddered. Her clit was swollen and sticking out of its hood. She caressed around the nub lightly with the pad of her finger. She thrust her hips in time to Mick’s plunges.

She sped up and put more pressure on the top of her pussy. Teasing her clit and drawing her orgasm out of its shell. Biting down on her lip, she lavished in the wet, smooth strokes of Mick’s cock gliding in and out.

“Oh!” She dug her heels into Mick’s ass, and lifted her butt off the bed.

Her finger didn’t move from the receptive spot right above her clit. Her lower belly muscles clenched and exploded into a million pieces. She closed her eyes and rode her orgasm out.

Mick withdrew his cock, kissed her open mouth, and pulled her into a sitting position. “That’s only the beginning, baby.”

He led her back over in front of the mirror. This time he sat down on the stool. His cock glistened with her juices. “God, I love how wet you get when you come for me.” He turned her around. “Face the mirror, back your tight little virgin hole onto my cock, and fuck me when you’re ready.”

Stepping between his outstretched legs, she turned and put her hands on his thighs. “Like this?”

“Perfect, baby.” He ran his fingers over her moist dripping pussy and lubricated her anus. “Just the thought of fucking your ass makes me want to shoot my cum all over you.” He rubbed the head of his cock down the middle of her butt. “Right there.”

The pressure from his hardness pressing against her anus pushed her on. She wanted nothing more than to experience his cock filling her up. He was so much bigger than the butt plugs she’d practiced with, and she knew the pleasure would be out of this world.

Relaxed and ready to accept him, she lowered herself. The bulbous head of his cock slipped past the taut ring. She froze.

“Breathe.” His hands stroked up and down her arms. “Take your time. Let me stretch you.”

“I-I can’t—”

“Does it hurt, baby?” His hands paused.

She shook her head. “I. Can’t. Wait.” Lifting her hands off his legs, she sank down fully onto his cock. “Oh.”

Her shoulders shook with the passion of what she and Mick accomplished together. Packed with his whole cock up inside of her ass, she shivered. Her pussy spasmed at the new sensations she was experiencing.

Mick’s hands moved to the small indention of her waist. “Ride me.”

Using her legs, she lifted her ass a little to test if it would hurt. Finding only pleasure, she extended her movement. Her nipples became harder and tingled.

She lifted her chin and gazed into the mirror. “Oh. God.”

“That’s us.” Mick tightened his fingers as he helped her slide up and down.

In the reflection, she viewed the most beautiful scene. Two people in the throes of showing their trust, love, and experience. She lowered her gaze. The muscles in her pussy pulsed. She loved the sight of their two bodies joined together.

Mick reached around and fingered her swollen clit. Gleaming with cream, his finger hypnotized her. The heat from another orgasm rising flooded her nether region.

“Again.” He pinched her clit. “Again.”

She plunged all the way down and set to riding his cock with rapid movement. He pulled on her clit. Her body burst, and her anus convulsed around the width of Mick’s cock.

“Fuck yes!” Mick’s legs jerked.

Warm fluid filled her cavity. Her muscles milked every drop of cum from him. Unable to find the strength to move, she let her weight settle on Mick’s thighs.

She shivered over each aftershock of his orgasm. Inhaling through her nose, she filled her lungs and let it out slowly.

“I had no idea.” She leaned back, and Mick wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her securely to him.

“Thank you.” He gazed over her shoulder into the mirror.

She smiled. “I wonder what else you can teach this young, innocent, deprived girl?”

* * *

“Are you sure I look okay?” Debbie gazed around the inside of the house. “The other women are wearing pantsuits.”

Mick patted her bottom. “You look hot.”

She snickered. “Why does that expression sound so wrong coming out of your mouth?”

“Reed! Just the man I needed to see.” An older gentlemen sneaked up behind them and laid his arm around Mick’s shoulders. “How did the Marek merger go?”

“Good. Final papers will be on your desk Tuesday.” He squeezed Debbie’s hand. “Stan, I’d like you to meet Debbie Nordall.” Mick leaned closer. “Stan’s one of the main guys at the office in charge of the legal department. He’s invaluable, and does all my grunt work.”

Stan threw back his head and chuckled. “Don’t let him fool you. He gets his hands dirty too.”

Mick clapped Stan on the shoulder. She smiled and shook the man’s hand. He seemed nice enough, and she loved learning more about Mick’s working life.

Stan motioned across the room for someone to come over. “Let me introduce you to my wife while I steal Mick away for a few minutes.” He pulled his wife under his arm. “Sharon, this is Mick’s girl, Debbie. I’m going to get a few of the men together and hash out some appointments. Can you keep her company?”

“Sure.” Sharon stepped over to Debbie’s side. “These parties can get pretty stuffy with all their business talk.” She backed up and gazed about the room. “I used to hate coming to them.”

“You changed your mind?” Debbie raised her brows.

Sharon nodded. “Yes.” She grinned. “Somewhere along the line, I started looking forward to seeing everyone instead of worrying if I was wearing the right dress or rubbing elbows with the right executive’s wife.” Lifting her cup, she glanced at Debbie. “Do you work for Mick too?”

“No. I’m a teacher’s aide at the Happy Horizons Preschool.” She swallowed. “I took a break from college to figure out what I wanted to do, and found out I really enjoy working with the children.” She nodded. “I plan on going back and getting my teaching certificate next summer.”

“That’s wonderful. I bet those little ones keep you smiling,” Sharon said.

“Oh, they do. You never know what will pop out of their mouths.”

Sharon laid her hand on Debbie’s arm. “Don’t I know it. My youngest grandkids are three and five. They keep Stan and me in stitches with the tales they spin.”

A hand landed on Debbie’s back, and Mick stepped up beside her. “Miss me?”

“Always.” She leaned over and hugged him.

“Here’s a picture of the grandbabies.” Sharon handed her purse to Stan and held up her wallet.

“Oh, what beautiful kids.” Debbie smiled. “You are certainly blessed.”

“Sharon, Stan, it was good to see you as always.” Mick kissed Sharon’s cheek. “We’re going to head on out.”

Debbie smiled her good-byes and followed Mick out of the house. “That was fun.”

Mick gazed over and raised his eyebrows. “You’ve surprised me.”

“Why?” She raised her brows. “Dude, did you think I was too young to join in on a mature conversation? Seriously?” She shook her head. “At least your friends are more accepting of our relationship. Wish I could say the same for my friends. It’d be nice if they liked you, but they don’t even give you a chance.”

He snorted, pulled her to his side, and kissed the top of her head. “You are one groovy chick.”

Debbie snorted. “That’s so last century.” She pulled Mick to a stop outside the car. “Can I drive this beast?”

Mick handed over the keys. “Don’t kill us.”

She ran around to the driver’s side, popped the locks, and cranked the engine. Mick sat down and buckled up. She tapped the gas pedal. “I want to take you somewhere. You game?”

Chapter Eight

The sky crackled, and more rain fell down on top of Debbie and Mick. She ran barefoot across the wet grass in the park, pulling Mick behind her with one hand and holding her heels in the other.

“What exactly are we doing out here getting soaked and ruining our clothes?” Mick asked.

“You’ll find out.” She peered over her shoulder and snorted. “You should see yourself. I think your suit is ruined.”

“You think?” He tugged at her hand. “We’re already wet. We might as well walk.”

She adjusted her grip on his hand. “It’s right up there.” She pointed. “My dad used to bring me here years ago when I thought I wanted to be a famous singer.”

“It looks like the rest of the park.” He shook his head, sending raindrops flying.

“That’s what they want you to think. They are evil that way.” She stopped, gazed off in the distance, and then pulled Mick over a little. “Stand right there.” She squeezed his arm. “There. Perfect. Don’t move.”

She skipped a few yards away. “Okay, now sing.”

“What?” He chuckled.

“You need to sing. You’ll see what happens. It’s way cool… Just do it.” She nodded.

“I don’t sing.” He crossed his arms. “Ever.”

“Stop being a wuss.” She planted her fists on her hips. “Sing ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.’”

He glared, and the corner of his lip came up in a snarl. “No.”

Stomping the ground, she let out a big sigh. “I guess I’ll have to resort to drastic measures.” She leaned over and pulled the hem of her short black evening dress over her head. “Will you do it now?”

Mick cocked his eyebrow in challenge.

Debbie unclasped the front of her bra and tossed it on top of her dress. She fought the wet material of her panties down her legs and stepped out of them. “Now?”

Mick scoffed and faked a yawn.

“Fine. What can I do to make you sing?” She wrapped her arms around her breasts and shivered. “Hurry and make up your mind. I’m freezing.”

“Crawl.”

“On the ground?” She wrinkled her nose. “It’s muddy and wet.”

That eyebrow of his lifted again. “Crawl.”

“But—”

“Crawl.” He nodded. “Slowly.”

Debbie squatted down and sank her knees into the moist grass. Shivers racked her body. Throwing her wet hair behind her, she leaned forward and balanced on her hands and knees. She’d brought him here to sing, and instead she found herself turned on at the thought of obeying his commands.

She moved her hand forward, lifted her knee, and gazed ahead at Mick. He uncrossed his arms. She recognized the look that flashed across his face. He’s enjoying this. He wants me to beg, to do anything he commands me to do.

Despite the cold, the rain, and slinking across the park grounds, a thrill settled over her. The drops of water running down her butt cheeks, over her pussy caressed her in the most delightful way.

Mick unlatched his belt, unzipped his slacks, and brought his engorged cock out. She licked her lips. The wet material clung to his thighs, he held the base of his cock, and his gaze ate her up.

Without lowering her head, she crawled in long, slow stretches, drawing out the task he wanted her to perform. Her breasts hung free underneath her, swaying with each move. Her nipples hardened into tight nubs against the chill and the way she grew excited over what Mick would have her do next.

“Fuck.” Mick’s jaw tensed. “You’re beautiful, baby.”

“I want you.” She reached him and sat back on her feet. She grasped his thighs and purred. “Please?”

Short, heated breaths blew out of Mick’s mouth, creating a mist of air. “Finger your clit.” He began to stroke his cock. “Come for me.” The little vein at the side of his temple pulsed with desire. “My cum…” He groaned. “Rain.” He arched his back and widened his stance. “You.”

She slid her finger over the wetness of her pussy. She leaned back, putting more pressure on her anus. Raindrops lit on her nipples, sending tiny jolts of pleasure through her body that warmed her up. The cloudy drop of precum on the head of his cock stood out from the rain coating his body.

“Oh.” She swallowed. “Mick.” She writhed in front of him. Her head thrown back, she gazed at the way his body strained to hold back his ecstasy. “Please. Come on me.”

He pulled back hard on his cock and held it tight. “Ah…” He yelled his release.

The sound reverberated over the nature-made amphitheater and delved into her core, consuming her. She cried out with unabashed abandon. Splotches of his cum marked her chest, and she shuddered.

Mick stumbled back, got his balance, and held out his hand. She pulled herself off the ground and wrapped her arms around his neck for support. The pleasure they’d shared beat cajoling him into singing hands down.

“Did you hear it, Mick?” she whispered against his neck. “Isn’t it magical?”

He picked her up and cradled her in his arms. “Yeah, baby. That was unforgettable.”

* * *

Debbie’s stomach hurt. She rolled onto her side and curled into a fetal position. She couldn’t take it anymore.

“Stop. Please.” She drew in a shaky breath. “You’re killing me here.”

Mick grabbed her leg, pulled her foot back onto his lap, and held his fingers above the bottom of her foot. “A fit punishment for someone who dares laugh at one of their elders, I’d think.”

“Fine!” She struggled to sit up. “I won’t make fun of you anymore. How was I supposed to know you’re a huge kung fu fan?” She bit down on her lip to keep from cracking up.

He’d convinced her to watch an old movie, but the more she laughed every time one of the characters mentioned the name Grasshopper, the stiffer Mick’s back became. She stretched back out and put her other foot in his lap.

“Want to paint my toenails?” She wiggled her toes.

Mick didn’t answer her but stared down at her feet. She sat up and touched his arm. “Mick?”

He turned. “What?”

“I lost you there for a minute. What were you thinking?” She pulled his arm over and held his hand between her palms. “You looked a million miles away.”

Mick smiled, lifted her foot, and kissed her big toe. “I was just thinking that it’s been a long time since I’ve laughed this way, and I have you to thank.” He massaged the bottom of her foot. “I’ve been too serious for too many years. Struggling to secure my finances, climbing the corporate ladder, and putting on a suit every day… Somewhere in that huge amount of time, it all got old.”

“I’m glad you laugh too.” She pulled her feet down and climbed up into his lap. “Even if it’s because of my immaturity.” She snuggled against him.

“You balance me.” He cradled her to his chest. “We give each other a lot. Let’s never take that for granted, okay?”

“Nope.” She nibbled his neck. “I’ll never do that.”

He sighed. “I almost wish we didn’t have to go to the party.”

“Yeah, me too.” Her fingers roamed over his chest. “The sooner we go, the faster we can come home.”

Mick kissed the top of her head and scooted her off his lap. “Thank God. Let’s go hop in the shower and get this show on the road, shall we?”

She followed him into the bathroom. “You say the funniest things.”

* * *

The conversations swirled around Debbie. She had the odd sense that she belonged at home with Mick, not here. The out-of-body revelation overrode her wish to join in the laughter around the table. Why had Mick insisted they come?

“Deb.” Juanita laid a hand on her arm. “Remember that guy who used to put off taking his son home after class so he could talk with you? Jason’s father?”

She nodded. “Yeah.”

“He’s hooked up with Melissa’s mom. I heard this afternoon they planned to get married next summer.” Juanita tapped the table with her finger. “I thought he’d never lose his fascination with you, but it looks like he survived.”

Debbie turned to Mick. “Jason’s dad is a young single father, and Melissa’s mom works down on Cleary Street dancing the poles.” She grinned. “Who knew?”

“Ah.” Mick smiled in understanding but didn’t add anything to the conversation.

“Okay, how many of us are planning on hitting the party tomorrow night?” Barb, the wildest out of all her friends, held her mug of beer up in the air at the other end of the table.

The others in her group of friends cheered and held up their drinks. Debbie slid her hand up Mick’s thigh and twined her fingers through his. Not one for college parties, she planned to convince Mick to snuggle in bed and watch the chick flick she’d bought yesterday. She’d make suffering through a girlie movie worth it for him.

“You in, Deb?” Barb raised her brows.

She shook her head. “Nope, got other plans.”

“Oh, come on. You never go out with us anymore.” Barb scrunched up her nose. “You’re turning into an old fuddy-duddy like the old man.”

Oh no, she didn’t go there. Debbie sucked in a breath. God, she was so tired of getting her relationship with Mick thrown back at her in every conversation.

Mick sat forward. “Baby…”

She leaned back. Her glass thunked against the table. “You know what?” She stared down the length of the table. “Lay off. Just because I—” She waved her hand in front of her. “Never mind.” Grabbing Mick’s hand, she turned. “Do you want to go dance?”

He scooted back his chair, stood up, and led her across the floor. She slipped her arms around his neck. Her heart raced, and it surprised her how bent out of shape she’d become.

“Shit.” She laid her head underneath Mick’s chin. “Why can’t my friends understand? It’s not as if I’ve changed. I rarely went out to the parties with them before I met you.”

“Maybe you’re a little sensitive.” Mick rubbed her back. “Your girlfriends are giving you a hard time because they’re your friends.” He kissed the top of her head. “I don’t think this has so much to do with your relationship with me, Deb.”

She sighed. “They have a funny way of showing it. Once, I’d like them to ask me what we did over the weekend or listen to me tell them about you without giving me a lecture about the age difference. They aren’t exactly kind behind your back. I’m tired of defending you, us, everything.”

Mick stopped moving, leaned back, and gazed down at her. “Do you have a problem being with me?”

She jerked. Why would he ask such a ridiculous question?

“Of course not!” She kissed him. “I love you. I love what we have together.”

He lifted his gaze from her and peered over at her friends. “Want to get out of here?”

She smiled. “That’s the best thing I’ve heard all night.”

Grabbing her coat off the back of the chair, she turned to her friends. “Sorry, guys, probably PMS.” She rubbed her forehead. “Thanks for inviting us, but we’re going to head out.”

She walked around the table and gave each of them a hug. Squeezing Barb extra-hard, she whispered, “Sorry. I didn’t mean to bite your head off. Forgive me?”

“Of course.” Barb kissed her cheeks. “You’ve always been a fudster.” Barb hugged Debbie back. “Plus, now I know what to get you for your birthday. A shawl…and maybe a pair of knitting needles.”

She groaned. “Barb—”

Her friend held up her hand. “I’ll stop. I just think you’re making a terrible mistake. You should be out having fun.”

“This is fun. I love Mick.” She turned around and headed back down to the other side of the table.

Debbie saved saying good-bye to Juanita for last. Walking back around the table, she found Mick in a serious conversation. A frown marked his face as he leaned down beside Juanita talking.

At her approach, Mick straightened and stopped talking. She placed her hand on Juanita’s back and tilted her head at Mick. Why did he appear so serious all of a sudden?

“Hey, Juanita. I’ll see you on Monday bright and early, ‘kay?” She hugged her coworker from behind.

“Dammit. I’m sorry, Deb. It slipped out before I realized what I’d said.” Juanita squeezed her arms.

Debbie glanced up at Mick. The muscle along his jaw twitched from the tension around his mouth. Her shoulders drooped. Shit.

“Not your fault. I should have told him.” She leaned around and kissed Juanita’s cheek. “See you Monday.”

She followed Mick out of the restaurant. He kept his distance and didn’t lay a hand on her. After escorting her into the car, he climbed in and drove.

“Can I explain?”

“I think your actions are enlightening me enough.” His fingers turned white on the steering wheel. “I asked you to let go of your apartment, make the commitment to our relationship, and you lied. Half the time we’re with your friends, you’re more concerned about what they think than letting it all go—”

“It’s not like that.” She threw up her hands.

He slammed a palm down on the wheel. “Are you denying that you’re letting your friend stay at your apartment, but kept the apartment in your name?”

“No.”

“Did you not lead me to believe you had moved into my house with the intent to make our relationship permanent—forever?” He downshifted and pulled onto their street.

“Knock it off, Mick. I’m not on trial here. Let me explain.” She reached over and put her hand on his leg, but he shoved it away.

Neither one of them spoke the rest of the way home. Following him into the house, she wanted to explain her reasoning, but everything she came up with sounded pathetic to her own ears.

Mick stalked off upstairs, and Debbie sank down on the couch. Grabbing the folded blanket, she hugged it to her chest. I will not cry. He’ll calm down, and I’ll try to explain why I did it.

Chapter Nine

Thunk.

Mick stood in front of the couch with two suitcases sitting at his feet. “I’ll have the rest of your things boxed and delivered to your apartment tomorrow.”

She ran her hands over her face and sat up. “What are you talking about?” She glanced at the clock. “Oh God, I fell asleep.”

“I told you from day one that I expected honesty and one hundred percent of you in this relationship.” He shoved his hands into the front pockets of his slacks. “I’m not willing to receive anything less.” His upper lip twitched. “You’ll have no problem making the adjustment. You have an apartment to go back to.”

“Mick, wait—” She flung off the blanket and stood up.

He stepped back and acted as if the mere thought of her touching any part of him turned his stomach. “Go home, Debbie” He turned his back to her and walked off.

“Mick?”

He stopped but refused to turn around. She swallowed.

“I love you.”

He nodded. “You’re in love with the idea of a relationship with me, but for how much you try to convince yourself you want a relationship with someone more mature and stable…you have a lot of growing up to do.”

Her jaw dropped. Mick walked over to the door, opened it, and hurried over to climb the stairs. His words cut deep and left her wounded. It wasn’t true. She loved him.

The bedroom door slammed. She flinched. Ignoring the tears falling down her cheeks, she put her coat on and picked up her suitcases.

Mick was wrong. She didn’t need to grow up. He did.

* * *

“Ms. Nordall, Ms. Nordall!”

Debbie glanced down and found Jeremy tugging her pant leg. Squatting, she smiled. “Yes, sweetie?”

“I got to go to the baffroom.” He danced in place. “Bad.”

“Let’s go, champ.” She hurried him out of the classroom, across the hall, and pushed him through the door. “I’ll be right here. Don’t forget to wash your hands.”

She leaned against the wall and rubbed her head. Fifteen minutes and she could go home. She needed a couple of aspirin in the worst way.

The classroom door to the preschool room opened. She lifted her head. The aftereffects of the last snack break finally showed up going by how much noise the hyperactive children were making.

“Clear the area. We’ve got an emergency.” Juanita held a little boy tucked under her arm. “Everyone stand back. There’s a plane coming in for landing.”

Tucker’s arms stuck straight out at his sides, and after touching the ground, he flew into the restroom. She smiled. Cute kid.

“Hey, you all right?” Juanita collapsed beside her. “You’re looking awful droopy.”

“Headache.” She touched her temple. “Nothing a couple of pills and a bath won’t cure.”

“It’s Friday. Why don’t you cut out early? I’ll take the kids back to the room.” Juanita patted her arm. “You’ve had a hell of a week. You deserve some pampering. I’m going out with the gang tonight, so you’ll have the place to yourself.”

“Thanks, Juanita.” She hugged her friend.

After grabbing her purse and coat, she headed out to her car. Her cell phone rang, and she hurried to find it in her bag. Flipping it open, she hurried to press the call button.

“Mom?” She threw her stuff on the hood of the car. “Everything okay with you and Dad?”

“Of course, sweetie. I’m calling to check up on you.” Her mom paused. “Have you talked to Mick?”

“No.” She rubbed the back of her neck. “The more I think about it, the madder I am. He had no right to shut me out and not allow me to explain my side. He claimed I needed to grow up.” She snorted. “It’s not like he’s acting very mature at the moment either.” She blew her bangs off her face. “I just don’t understand how we went from wonderful to not even talking.”

“Honey, you need to listen to how you’re talking. I don’t think Mick is the only one who jumped to conclusions.” Her mom sighed. “I know it’s hard when your feelings are so tender, but…”

Debbie sighed. “Deep down, I know that.” She sniffed. “Oh, Mom, I had no idea it would hurt this bad. I never meant to hurt him. I thought I was doing the right thing, but Mick was right. I should have trusted him and the love we shared together.”

Silence came over the phone. “Mom, you still there?”

“Yes, Deb.” Static sounded in her ear. “Honey, hang on. Your dad is yelling from the other room that he wants to speak with you.”

She dug through her purse, found her keys, and unlocked the driver’s-side door. After tossing her things inside, she sat down in the driver’s seat and then shut the door. Now that her mom and dad had discovered the pleasures of traveling, she couldn’t just pop in on them at their house and discuss her problems whenever she wanted. She missed having everyday interactions with her parents.

“Sweetheart?”

“Hi, Daddy.” Deb smiled. “How’s your vacation going?”

“Good, but I’m anxious to come back and see you. I’m worried about you.”

“I’ll be okay.” She sniffed. Hearing her dad’s voice was comforting, and she’d love to receive one of his big bear hugs. He had a way about him that solved all her problems. “It hurts. I love him, Dad.”

“Then go talk to him.” Her dad chuckled. “Did I ever tell you about the time your mother threatened to have her older brothers beat me up?”

She wiped her eyes. “No.”

“Evie got mad because she thought I was trying to control her.” He scoffed. “I was, but that’s beside the point.”

Debbie shook her head. “You two are made for each other, Dad.”

“What I want to say is…I acted that way because I was afraid of losing her.” Frank Nordall cleared his throat. “In my head, I figured that if I could dictate our lives, I’d keep her with me forever. Fear of losing someone you love plays havoc with the way you act sometimes.”

“What did you do?” She pinched the bridge of her nose to keep the tears at bay.

“I didn’t do anything. Evie came back to me a couple of days later and demanded we talk it out. The smartest thing she ever did, because it gave this ol’ fart a chance to make it up to her for my insecurities. Age doesn’t always bring wisdom.”

Debbie leaned her head back on the headrest and closed her eyes. “You think I should apologize?’

“Is the split-up your doing, Deb?”

She swallowed. “Yeah.”

“You do what makes you happy, sweetheart. I just wanted you to realize that even men who are supposed to have more maturity in a relationship will often screw up in an effort to protect themselves from getting hurt. I know I’ve done it. It’s human nature, and something I’m sure everyone does at one point or another in life.” He smooched into the phone. “You know we both love you, and no matter what, we’re here if you need us.”

“I love you too.” More tears fell. “Bye, Daddy. Give Mom a kiss.”

She tossed the phone over on the passenger seat. Her stomach flipped. She missed Mick so much. Life wasn’t the same without him. She wanted their long conversations into the night, the way he took care of everything, and she missed cuddling with him after making love. They could work this out. She only needed to apologize, and Mick would see that they had both acted out of fear.

Debbie slipped her seat belt around her and started the car. Looking over her shoulder to enter traffic, she made up her mind. Tomorrow morning she’d make Mick listen to her and beg him to take her back.

* * *

Rain splattered the dock at Mick’s feet, and he heaved his bag onto the yacht. He hurried on board, picked up his things, and climbed down the stairs to the bedroom. He looked forward to battling the water on his trip and hoped the storm continued. With his life in shambles, taking control of the thirty-six-foot boat would take his mind off going on this trip alone.

He kicked his bag off to the side, opened the liquor cabinet, and pulled out a half-filled bottle of the finest whiskey. Skipping the shot glass, he lifted his arm and swallowed a healthy drop. He planned to get stone drunk tonight and worry about the trip tomorrow, when it was time to shove off and leave his life with Debbie behind.

“Argh!” He squeezed his eyes shut and let the warmth burn away the knot in his stomach.

He mourned the loss of finding someone so perfect for him and sending her away. He damned the way she wasn’t able to give up her independence and rely on him, to trust him. Lifting the bottle, he drank a healthier dose. He closed his eyes for a moment and wished for numbness to wash over him.

It didn’t come. It never would. He’d lost her.

Sitting in the same position on the edge of the bed, he chugged back another swallow, grimaced, and hung his head. “Damn her.”

Chapter Ten

Debbie languished in bed, half caught up in an erotic dream involving Mick, and wondering what the hell was making that banging noise. She threw off her covers, grabbed her robe, and marched out to the living room.

Juanita and Barb stood in the kitchen talking to Doreen, and Ali, who taught down at the preschool with them. She frowned. “What’s going on, guys? A little early to wake someone up, huh?”

“Sorry!” Juanita threw her arm around Doreen. “We just got home, and I had this wonderful idea to make my best friends in the whole wide freaking world pancakes for breakfast.” She let go of Doreen and hurried over to Debbie. “That.” She poked Debbie in the chest. “Includes.” Juanita grabbed her cheeks and kissed her full on the lips. “You!”

“You’re drunk.” Debbie wiggled away.

“Why…yes, I am.” Juanita swayed back into the kitchen.

Debbie plopped down on the sofa and rubbed her hands over her face. She might as well stay up. No way would she get back to sleep now.

Laying her head back, she turned her neck from one side to the other, straightened with a jerk, and came off the couch. “Oh my God. What time is it?”

She hurried over to read the clock on the oven. “Shit.”

“What’s wrong?” Barb caught her arm, stopping her.

“I’ve got to go find Mick.” She yanked her arm away and scurried into the bedroom. “I’m going to tell him I’m sorry,” she yelled.

A round of cheers broke out in the other room. Debbie dressed, grabbed her purse, and headed back out to the living room to find her boots. She didn’t want to go another day without Mick, and the sooner she begged him to take her back, the better.

“Here!” Juanita handed her boots to her and pushed her down on the sofa.

Barb sat down on the couch beside her, grabbed her leg, and helped her pull one of her boots on. “You’ve finally come to your senses.” She patted Debbie’s leg. “You go, girlfriend.”

Debbie paused and turned to her friend. “What do you mean? It seemed like you only tolerated him for my benefit and were against our relationship from the start. Remember all the old-person jokes you threw my way?”

Her friend’s scoffed. “Are you crazy?” Barb leaned over and bumped her with her shoulder. “We like Mick well enough, but more important, he made you happy, so he can’t be that bad of a guy. You can’t fault your friends for trying to convert you to younger men, can you?”

“Yeah, for a senior citizen and AARP member, he’s decent.” Juanita grinned. “It’s not like you have to stay home with him when we all go out. You’re strong enough to push his wheelchair so he can come dancing with us too.”

“You guys are pathetic when you’ve been drinking.” Deb wrinkled her nose. “It sure would have been easier”—she paused to tuck in her shirt—“if you had told me how you really felt earlier into the relationship. I thought you guys believed he was a pervert.”

A chorus of nos filled the room. She swallowed. “I’ve been stupid.”

“No. You’ve been human. Now go get your man.” Barb pushed her toward the door.

“Here’s your purse.” Doreen held out the oversize bag. “Good luck.”

She laid a hand on her stomach. “Oh God. What if he doesn’t take me back? What if I totally blew it and he tells me to go away? I was a major jerk.” She paced in front of her friends. “Immature, selfish, spoiled, angry—”

“You love him.” Juanita folded her arms across her stomach, and her face tightened. “I’m suddenly not feeling too well either.”

Barb stood up and wrapped her arm around Juanita. “Go, Deb. Tell him you love him. He won’t be able to turn you away. You’re irresistible.” She glanced down at Juanita, who gagged. “Ugh, we’ll take care of her. Go. Go.”

Fifteen minutes later she pulled up to Mick’s house. All the lights were out, and the drapes pulled. Maybe she should have called him first. She tapped her hand against the steering wheel. No. If she stood on his doorstep and refused to leave until he heard her out, he’d have to listen to what she had to say.

Before she lost her nerve, she left her vehicle and ran through the rain to the front door. She pushed the doorbell, shook the drops from her hair, and took a deep breath. The chime of the bell sounded inside.

Debbie shifted back and forth on her feet. “Come on. Come on. Answer the door.”

She mentally counted to thirty and rang the bell again. What if he looked out one of the windows, spied her car, and refused to come to the door? No, he wouldn’t. Would he?

She rifled through her purse in search of the key chain with a gold heart that Mick gave her the night she moved in. She’d forgotten to return the house key when she left. Her hands shook, and she struggled to fit the key in the lock.

“Mick?” She peeked inside the house. “Mick?” she yelled a little louder, pushing the door open and stepping into the foyer.

Not a sound filled the house. Running up the steps, she headed toward the bathroom, thinking she might have caught him in the shower. If that was the case, she’d go back out to her car and wait.

Not finding Mick in the bathroom, she left the bedroom. She forced her feet to carry her back downstairs and out to her car. He’d never gone to the office on a weekend when she lived with him.

“Think, Deb.” She sat down behind the steering wheel. “Where would he go?” She snorted. “God! Listen to me. I’ve gone insane, talking to myself, and my love for him has turned me into a stalker.”

Debbie started the car, shifted the gear into drive and stopped. Returning the lever to the park position, she knew exactly how to find him. “Yes!”

She grabbed her cell phone and pushed the button for Mick’s office. She inhaled deeply and hoped this was one of the weekends his secretary was working.

“Hello?” She sat up straighter. “Yes. Hello, may I speak with Mick Reed, please? It’s urgent that I get to speak with him today.” She forced herself to listen to the woman’s answer, thanked her, and threw the phone onto the passenger seat. Dammit.

Mick planned to depart up the coast to his business meeting today. With no idea if he’d left or not, she pulled the shifter back into drive, floored the gas pedal, and headed for the marina. Please, please be there, Mick.

* * *

The waves crashed against the side of the yacht, and Mick’s body rolled back and forth on the bed. He grabbed the bedspread to stop the nauseating motion, but even moving that much killed his head. How much had he drunk, anyway?

He lifted his head and squinted around the room in search of the whiskey bottle. Spying it on the chair, he groaned. Not a drop remained.

The blast from an air horn sent him hurtling to his feet. He pressed his body against the cabinet and willed the bottom of his stomach to settle down. He’d slept too long. The fishing boats were already sailing out to sea.

Working his way across the room, he braced himself against the counter and set about making a pot of coffee. Deciding a shower would help the hangover, he squeezed himself into the cubbyhole of a bathroom and turned on the water.

Mick stepped into the shower stall without waiting for the hot water to arrive. Having to settle with using contained water on the yacht to bathe with, he could only afford to get wet, lather, rinse, and jump back out before the water turned cold.

He turned on the forced-air heater and stood naked in front of the coffeemaker to air-dry while counting the minutes for the coffee to finish dripping. Debbie always brought him a cup of coffee in the morning because she knew how he hated to wait.

The warm air took the chill out of the room, and he leaned over to grab a mug out of the rack. When he removed the pot, several drops of coffee spilled onto the hot plate causing the liquid to sizzle. The stench of burned coffee reached his nose.

He lifted the cup to his lips, sipped, and flinched at the way the heat stung his mouth. The liquid gold soothed his body and gave him enough oomph to get dressed. He’d have to get his ass in gear if he planned to shove off this morning.

After donning his rain gear, he climbed up the steps to the top deck and jumped down onto the dock. In quick order, he unwound the ropes securing the yacht in place and tossed them on board. Not trusting the slick dock, he stretched his leg across the span of the churning water to climb back on board the yacht.

“Mick! Stop!”

He turned his head, missed getting his foot on the ladder, and tumbled backward. He waved his arms in the air, searching for something to grab, but he came up empty. The water sucked him into its cold, dark abyss.

Weighed down in his clothes and rain gear, he fought to get his head above the surface. Gasping that first big lungful of air buoyed his spirits, and he swam the ten yards to where the yacht floated off on its own.

Chilled to the bone, his head pounded, his legs dragged, and it took all his strength to pull himself out of the water and heave himself onto the deck. He lay flat on his back, the rain splattering his face, and wondered if he had really heard Debbie’s voice.

“Mick!”

He rolled over onto his hands and knees and crawled closer to the railing. Pulling himself to his feet, he peered back at the dock. What the hell is she doing down here?

Debbie stood on the edge of the dock, holding her coat over her head. She used one hand to motion him back. His heart raced. Shit. He’d missed those long legs, the smile, her messy hair spread out on his pillow in the morning.

Mick limped into the covered area of the engine room, cranked the key, and gave the yacht enough gas to bring it closer to the dock. After shutting the engine off, he hurried back out on deck and picked up a coil of rope.

“Mick?” Debbie jumped up and down. “Can I talk with you? It’s important.”

He nodded. “Catch the rope and secure it to the dock.” Once he had thrown the rope to her, he walked along the rail to the opening. Waiting until she wound a figure eight around the dockside anchor with the rope, he soaked up everything about her.

Soaked to the skin, she stood on the dock with her clothes molded to her body. Those luscious breasts strained against her sweater. She chewed her bottom lip and frowned. He’d told her to leave. Why would she have come back?

She straightened and hurried over to stand beneath him. “Are you okay? I saw you go under. I was about ready to jump in and help, when I saw you climbing the ladder.” Her hand covered her heart. “God, Mick, I thought the waves had dragged you under the dock.”

“What do you want, Debbie?” He didn’t open an invitation for her to come on board. If he asked her up, he’d never be able to let her go. She wasn’t ready for a relationship. Not with him at least.

“I need to talk with you.” She swiped the rain off her face. “Can I come up? Get out of the rain?”

He nodded and held out his hand to help her up the slippery ladder. Pussy! Where is my control? I send her out of my life, and the first time she comes back looking at me with those sad blue eyes, I cave like an adolescent.

Chapter Eleven

Mick led the way down into the bedroom. Ignoring Debbie, he headed straight to the coffeemaker to pour himself a cup, in the hopes it would warm him up. After the shitty morning he’d had, he sure in the hell hadn’t needed that dip in the fucking Pacific Ocean.

“Shit, Mick. You need to get out of those clothes. You can hardly walk because you’re shaking so hard.” Debbie pulled the back of his raincoat off his shoulders.

“Coffee.” He pulled his arms free of the sleeves. “Need coffee.”

“I’ll pour you a cup. Get the rest of your clothes off, crawl into bed, and cover up.” She pushed him away from the pot. “What happened, anyway? Did you slip off the ladder?”

Mick peeled his shirt off. “No.” He worked the wet jeans and rain pants past his butt, sat down on the bed, and pulled them off his legs. “I heard you.”

“Oh shit.” She handed over a hot cup of coffee. “I’m sorry.” Debbie wrapped her arms around her waist. “I really am so sorry.”

“Turn that heater on there, will you?” He drank a sip from the mug. “Need to get warm.”

He closed his eyes and let the heat blow over his chilled body. Exhausted, he could barely talk, much less form an opinion about why Debbie would show up at the yacht.

A blanket landed over his shoulders, and he opened his eyes. She tucked the ends around him and lingered with her hand on his shoulders. His cock twitched. Half-drowned and Mickey couldn’t resist the soft touch of her hand.

“Mick?” Debbie sat down beside him. “I missed you.”

He glanced over and sighed. “I’ve missed you too, but that doesn’t change the fact that you aren’t ready to handle a relationship with an older man. No matter how much you think you are.”

Debbie’s chin dropped. “I know that.” She shook her head. “God, Mick, the last week has been the worst seven days of my life.” Slapping her leg, she scooted to face him better. “I realized that my problem wasn’t with the thought of my friends not liking you or our age difference. It wasn’t even about everyone judging our relationship. It was because of all my insecurities.” She tapped her chest and continued. “Mine.”

“I’ve never fit in with my friends. I love them to pieces, but our interests are totally different. For some strange reason, I thought once I found the love of my life, I would be accepted into the fold instead of standing outside the circle all the time when they go out on dates or bring their boyfriends along.” She snorted. “I’ve been so foolish. I learned that none of that matters. Losing you…”

“Tell me.”

“It made me miserable. Without you, I felt truly alone…like I had lost my best friend. You understand me, accept me, and love me.” Tears fell unchecked down her cheeks. “I love you, dammit, and I want you back. I want to take care of you, drive you insane, and make you laugh. Oh God, Mick, I want to laugh with you late into the night and have you hold me in your arms again.”

Mick stood up and set his empty mug in the sink. He stared at the faucet and kept his back to her. “I was your age when I fell in love—when I thought I fell in love with the perfect woman.” He shook his head and turned around. “She left me.” He paused. “It was bound to happen sooner or later, but I learned a valuable lesson.

He sat back down, gathered Debbie’s hand in his, and gazed into her eyes. “I promised myself that the next woman I fell in love with would be exactly the kind of woman I needed. The older I get, the pickier I find myself becoming. I know exactly what kind of woman I’m looking for.”

Debbie sniffed. “What kind of woman is that?”

“Young enough that she’ll trust me to take care of her. I want her to learn that together we can have everything we both dream about and she’ll never have to doubt my love. I’ve worked damn hard my whole life, and now that I have the freedom to enjoy the finer comforts, I want someone who is willing to live that life with me.” He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “I want to cherish you, take care of you, and make sure you have everything in life that makes you feel loved and secure.”

Debbie bowed her head. He lifted her chin and kissed her lips. “I want you, Debbie Nordall. For the rest of my life, I want to love you, be loved by you.”

Sobs racked her body, and she leaned her head on Mick’s chest. He scooped her up, wet clothes and all, and held her close to his heart. “I love you, baby, and I am so sorry I didn’t let you talk to me. I almost lost you over my stupid stubbornness. Sometimes it scares me to death how much you mean to me, and I feel awful that I did the one thing I promised not to do—I let you down.”

“I love you too.” She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his head over for a kiss. “We both made mistakes, but we’re back where we belong. Together. That’s all that matters right now.”

* * *

The sun broke through the clouds, lighting up the surface of the water and warming Debbie’s skin. She stood at the bow with not a stitch of clothing on, peering into the distance. She belonged here.

“Hey, gorgeous. What happened to your clothes?”

She spun around. Mick stepped up to the top deck wrapped in a blanket, his black and silver hair mussed up from his nap. He’d fallen right to sleep after making love to her earlier, and she hadn’t had the heart to wake him.

“Who needs clothes clear out here?” She curtsied and ran over to wrap her arms around his waist.

He captured her in his blanket and backed her up to the railing. “You didn’t sleep?”

“No.” She shook her head. “I’m too wound up. I can’t wait to start our life together. How perfect is it that the first place we go is Costa del Mar?”

He stroked her back in lazy circles. “Will you be okay not working at the preschool?”

“Yes.” She pulled back and gazed at him. “I had planned to go back and take the few classes that I need for my degree. This way I can get that done without adjusting around my work schedule.”

He kissed her. “Good. It never hurts to have a plan and further your education. I hope you know that I will support you in anything you want to do.”

She slipped out of his arms, stepped backward to the front of the yacht, and crooked her finger, motioning him to come with her. Smiling, she held out her hand. “I want your blanket.”

Mick didn’t take his eyes off her. She flapped the blanket in the breeze and spread it out on the deck. Lying down on top of it, she motioned for him to sit down. While he’d slept, she’d planned the perfect way to spend the afternoon out at sea.

Instead of joining her on the blanket, he turned and strolled to the other end of the boat. She sat up. Laughter threatened to burst out. He was up to something, and she loved his dirty ideas.

Returning to the bow of the boat, Mick held up a strand of thin cotton rope. “I promised to take care of you, and I fear you might roll off the yacht.” He lifted the corner of his mouth. “Assume the position, baby.”

She lay back down, raised her hands above her head, and waited. Giving complete control over to him was the easy part. The hard part came when she wanted to touch him and couldn’t.

Mick slipped her wrists inside the rope, tightened it, and stood back. “You’re my dream girl. I think I could stand back and gaze upon your body this whole trip.”

“You better not!” She pumped her hips in the air. “I need your touch, your heat, your cock.”

“I can do that.” He slipped between her legs and put his mouth on her pussy. He stroked her with his tongue, slow, long licks from anus to clit. She widened her legs and languished in the swirl of pleasure growing inside her body.

Although her hands were bound, nothing stopped her from lowering them but her desire to commit to her part in their lovemaking. She arched her back. His pinkie entered her anus. Fucking her with his tongue and finger, Mick fueled the fire burning inside her. She wanted him to take her, shove his cock deep inside her cunt.

“Mick.” Debbie wiggled her ass.

“Right here, baby.” He moved up her body and plunged into her wet pussy. “Damn, you’re wet.” He held himself above her on his arms. “Feels good.” He groaned. “Fucking great.”

“Harder, Mick, harder.” She planted her feet on the deck and tilted her pussy. His pelvic bone bumped her clit with each thrust, driving her wild. “Oh. Oh. Oh.”

“Come for me, baby.” His hips sped up. Back and forth, deeper and harder. “I want to”—he grunted—“feel you come.”

Debbie wrapped her legs around his hips, swung her bound hands up around his neck, lifted off the blanket, and plastered against him. She screamed out her orgasm. Her body squeezed him all over as spasms rocked deep inside her pussy.

“Fuck!” He lowered her to the blanket, rolled, and held her tight.

Debbie shuddered. Her pussy twitched in response to his hot squirts of cum. She and Mick matched perfectly, and she looked forward to having this kind of love for a long, long time.

Mick unbound her wrists and gave her a long, gentle kiss. “I should probably head us in the right direction, or we’ll never arrive in Costa del Mar.” He stood up and held out his hand. “Want to help drive this yacht?”

“You bet.” She jumped up.

An air-horn blast split the air. Mick stopped, and Debbie whirled around. Right beside them, not twenty feet away, a much bigger boat stood idle with an older couple standing at the railing, waving.

“Oh shit,” she whispered.

Mick pulled her to his side and waved back. “It turned out to be a beautiful day,” he yelled over to the other folks.

“Yes, it sure did,” the man yelled back. “Thanks for the show!”

His lady companion gave them a thumbs-up.

Debbie laughed and gazed up at Mick. She was too happy to worry about someone catching a glimpse of the beautiful love they shared or the fact they both stood out in the open with no clothes on. Taking Mick’s hand in hers, she bowed to the other couple.

Epilogue

“Twenty-nine.”

Mick’s groan filled the room, and Debbie snickered. “Come on, tough guy. You can do it. One more.”

“Thirty.”

He collapsed flat on the floor. His breath whooshed out. “Okay. Get off, baby. I’m done.”

Debbie climbed off her perch on Mick’s butt and flopped down on the bed. “You know, one of these days, I’ll have to start exercising with you. You totally kick ass at doing push-ups.”

A moan came from the floor. “Damn, I’m getting old.”

“Stop it! You’re not that old.” She grinned. “Only twice my age.”

“Smart-ass.” He gave her a kiss. “Thanks for sitting on me.”

“Anytime. That’s what I’m here for.” She sat back up at the sound of the clock dinging in the hallway. “Hurry, get dressed. It’s time for Mom and Dad to arrive.” She stood up and straightened her sundress. “Do I look okay?”

“You’re gorgeous, but they already know that.” He slipped his arms into the sleeves of his dress shirt. “Why are you so nervous? It’s only your parents. I should be the nervous one. They haven’t met me yet. I imagine your father will want to kill the old fart who seduced his young, innocent daughter. Never mind the news we have to break to them.”

She buttoned his shirt, but not before stealing a few belly rubs. The man had a serious six-pack going on. “You worry too much. They’re going to love you because I love you. It’s simple, really.”

“If you say so, baby.” He scoffed. “You do know where I keep the papers for my life insurance in case anything happens, right?”

She stepped past him and slapped his butt. “It’s so cute to see you worried about my parents, but trust me. You’re going to love them.” Stopping in the bedroom doorway, she glanced back. “It was really sweet of you to let them come spend the day with us. Thanks, Mick.”

“They’re family now. They’re welcome here anytime.” He tightened his tie.

The doorbell rang, and Debbie jumped. “It’s them!” She motioned for Mick to hurry. “Let’s open the door together.”

Mick snagged her back before she could open the door, kissed her, and reached for her hand. “Okay, I’m ready. Let your parents in.”

He stood behind Debbie with his hands on her shoulders, a smile on his face, and his stomach tied in knots. He probably should have skipped the push-ups and saved his strength for this meeting.

Debbie screamed and fell into her mom’s arms. Mick grinned into the smiling face peeking over Debbie’s shoulder. She had the same kind eyes as Debbie, and he instantly relaxed. It didn’t matter that she was around the same age as him. Her gaze said it all. She welcomed him into her daughter’s life and accepted their relationship.

“I’m so happy you and Dad finally came back home for a visit.” Debbie didn’t let go of her mom. “Where’s Dad?”

“He’s coming.” Evie Nordall peeled her daughter off and glanced behind herself. “He needed to stretch his legs after the long trip from the airport, but I couldn’t wait so I ran up to the door. We didn’t even go home first. I was so anxious to see you.” She moved over to Mick. “I’m Debbie’s mom, Evie.”

“Mick Reed.” He shook her hand. “It’s very nice to meet you finally.”

“Daddy!”

Both Evie and Mick turned their heads toward the door. Debbie wrapped her arms around her father’s neck, and Mick’s jaw dropped open. That damn little minx had forgotten to tell him one very important detail about her parents.

“Mick, this is my dad, Frank Nordall.” She squeezed her dad’s arm. “Daddy, this is Mick.” Smiling up at her dad she added, “The man I married a couple of weeks ago.”

“What?” Evie squealed and rushed to hug her daughter again.

Frank Nordall, who had to be pushing eighty-five years old and was twice as old as his lovely wife, stepped over and shook Mick’s hand. “Congratulations, son. Welcome to the family.”

Mick squeezed the man’s hand and shook his head in disbelief. All this time and not once had Deb ever hinted at the age difference between her parents. This gave insight into why she had never had a second thought about the age gap between them. God, if he’d only known.

“It is so nice to meet you too, sir.” Mick held out his hand for his wife. “I’m sorry that we didn’t wait and plan a more normal wedding, but we wanted to make our relationship official.”

Frank waved off his explanation. “I’ve been in your shoes, Mick. You’ve got to get the girl while it’s hot and heavy.”

“Daddy!” Debbie groaned. “Too much information.”

“Oh, grow up, dear. Your father is right.” Evie put her arm around her husband and daughter. “Besides, I’m happy. It’s not every day I learn that my only child got married and get to meet my new son-in-law.”

“Let’s go into the living room and catch up. I’ll tell you all about Mick’s and my wedding day.” Debbie grabbed her mom’s hand and led her into the living room. “He took me down to Costa del Mar, and I fell in love with the place. Mick had this crazy idea to get married while we were there, and…”

Frank walked with Mick behind the two women. “You treat her right, son, and my daughter will spoil you rotten. She’s a lot like her mother that way.” He clicked his tongue. “Some people don’t understand the relationship we have together, because of the age difference, but that don’t mean shit to us. I’d never change a single minute of my life with Evie.” He glanced at Mick. “And neither would Evie.”

“We feel the same way, sir.” Mick laid his hand on Frank’s back and smiled over at Debbie. “You and I are probably two of the luckiest bastards in the world.”

Loose Id Titles by Abby Wood

Didja Know…?

Throwing a Kink in the Kidnapping

Twice Her Age

Abby Wood

Abby Wood lives in Oregon with her husband and kids. An outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys gardening, tennis, and long motorcycle rides. A big animal lover, she enjoys the multitude of animals that come and go in her life. She likes nothing more than to delight readers with a book that will take them out of real life and put them in between the pages of a whole different world…if only for a little while.