Read Online Ocean of Fire by Emma Daniels - Free Book Online Page B

I.”
    “I distinctly remember you telling me you weren’t going to make a move on me.” Nicole knew that had been a pointless comment to make. It was obvious he’d changed his mind, but she wanted to know why. Now that they were no longer on the yacht, it couldn’t be to rile her father. So why then, when he could have any woman he wanted, beautiful women like Trisha, whom he’d he let go to Jim?
    To get back at her for thumping him, of course. What other possible reason could there be?
    “I did say that, didn’t I? But that was until I held you in my arms. Desire has no qualms about when it hits you, or who it draws you to... If the passion is there then the rest will follow. That’s why you and I are so well suited.”
    “Well suited? We have absolutely nothing in common. Respect and understanding, tenderness, togetherness. Those are the things I’m looking for.”
    He raised a dark brow. “And you think I couldn’t give you any of that?”
    Of course, she was about to declare, but managed to contain herself, when another strangely troubled look crossed his face.
    “Oh, how little you know me,” he sighed.
    He was right on that point. Nicole didn’t know him, had convinced herself she didn’t want to know him. Yet she was conscious of all the times she’d thought about him and looked at him, wondering what made him tick. She had to admit he would be an interesting person to get to know. And as for that kiss! The mere thought of doing it again made her whole body ache with longing. No, she told herself sternly, I am not going to let that sexy mouth of his anywhere near me again. He’s only interested in one thing, and now that he can’t get it from Trisha, he’s going to try and get it from me.
    When she didn’t say anything he went on. “Why don’t we spend some time together until you leave for your tour? It’s obvious you’re still overwhelmed by what had happened between us. Perhaps I’ve rushed things a bit, but I want it to be me who shows you the world of passionate desire.”
    “Why? Because of your wealth of experience?”
    He smiled, reaching for her hand, clasping it in both of his. “I won’t deny I’ve been around, but you can’t deny that you respond to me.” Bringing her hand to his lips, he continued. “You did the first time I did this.” He kissed her palm, and then moved his lips to the sensitive skin on the inside of her wrist. “Oh yes, I saw it in your pretty green eyes.”
    And he was doing it again. Nicole couldn’t deny it any longer. His touch did arouse the most beautiful sensations she had ever known. The sexy way he looked at her from under his long dark lashes was enough to melt what remained of her defenses. He was far too handsome, much too persuasive. His ultimate goal was to make love to her and for the first time Nicole found the prospect rather exciting. Despite his abrasive manner, his arrogance and overconfidence, she knew he would be gentle with her. There had been nothing forceful about his kiss, and his hands had only touched her with tenderness.
    But he would never love her. No matter how much she enjoyed his kisses and caresses, she couldn’t allow him to overwhelm her. He wasn’t the type of man she’d ever envisaged herself getting involved with, and she couldn’t allow herself to do so now.
    Yet, she felt flattered that he desired her, perhaps more than she should. No man had ever wanted her before, and she was still stunned that one so good-looking and world-wise should show an interest in her.
    “I think it’s time we headed back,” Philip said, glancing over his shoulder. He started getting to his feet, pulling Nicole up with him, but as he stepped back, he winced. Releasing her from his grip, he brought his hand to his ribcage.
    “What is it?” she asked, watching in concern at the way he clasped his side.
    “I’d forgotten about the injury a perturbed young woman inflicted on me yesterday,” he grimaced. Nicole realized that