Read Online Of That Day and Hour: A psychological thriller by Anthony O'Brien - Free Book Online

distant, my spark was gone. And along
with it, so were you.”
    “Does she know about me?”
    “What’s the point of hurting
someone even further? She lost me; the least I can do, not for her, but for my
daughters, is to be kind.”
    “You’re a good man Jeff.”
    Eve’s hand reaches forward;
it feels good to have a bond as their fingers touch. The waiter has impeccable
timing, and for now, they have to be content with a quick squeeze of hands, one
that says 'later'. The roast tenderloin of beef for two has arrived, served
with Edouard’s sauce, and special fried potatoes. The food is faultless, the
mood perfect.
    The meal done, Jeff raises
his glass in toast to the chef, yet as he raises his glass he freezes. Seated
behind Eve is Casey, raising his glass; smiling directly at Jeff. Someone walks
past and he’s gone. Eve quickly looks around, to see who’s captured Jeff’s
attention, but there’s only an empty table.
    “Are you alright?” Jeff
looks like he’s just seen a ghost.
    “Yeah, yeah I’m fine.”
    “Are you sure?” Eve’s not
convinced. “You turned white.”
    “I think I just need some
fresh air.” Jeff can’t think straight. “That’s all.”
    “It’s a bit stuffy in here,
shall we?”
    “Yeah.” Jeff’s enthusiasm
covers his confusion. “Let’s hit the strip.”
    Jeff calls for the check.
Before walking out he looks back one last time; fearing that Casey's apparition
may follow them. Stepping outside, the air is cool. Its bite helps shake off
his experience. His irrational thoughts are left behind at the restaurant.
    Along the neon-lit
sidewalks, half hidden in the shadows, are many unfortunate ragged souls who
keep Jeff on guard. Eve’s oblivious, and fascinated. The sidewalk is one
throbbing mass of people, dressed in all manner of bling and attire. Girls in
short skirts struggle with high heels on the uneven surface; jubilant faces
reflect the neon lights surrounding them. All walks of life have come here to
let their hair down; the drinks and party spill out onto the street along with
the smell of great food. This carnival of sights and sounds surrounds historic
restaurants, jazz joints, upscale lounges and more: at every turn, gentlemen's
clubs have strippers at the doors trying to entice them in.
    “I’m sorry, Eve.” Jeff loves
the sights, but he’s no fool. “I didn’t realize it would be so raucous.”
    “Don’t worry.” The seedier
side of life fascinates Eve. “Anyway, it’s interesting to watch.”
    “Really?” Jeff sounds too
enthusiastic for Eve’s liking. “Don’t get your hopes up! We’re not going in.”
    “I wouldn’t want us to.”
Jeff senses that he’s walking on eggshells.
    “Of course you wouldn’t.
Come on, let’s go back to the motel.”
    The party never ends on
Bourbon Street. Yet the enticement of music, clubs, food and people-watching is
no match for love. Both Jeff and Eve have waited all night, longed to be in
this moment, back at the Pink Lady Hotel. In this room, on this bed, and alone,
shielded from humanity. To hold, love and touch each other once again. Jeff’s
lips gently touch Eve’s neck as she whispers, “I want you.”
    The gentle caress of his
tongue stirs violent passions. His breath invokes powers that makes oceans
tremble and autumn leaves blush. Eve gasps at the touch of his fingers sliding
with a gentle sensual weave through hair, enjoys the sweetness of his hard
lips. His tongue slips through hers with a wanton thirst. With each touch of
skin on skin, with each kiss, they savor desire, before it inevitably
overpowers them. Eve’s legs quiver; her nipples stand proud.
    “Devour me.”
    She whispers; fingers trace.
She feels heat against her, aching to be touched. Taking his hand she draws him
to her. Fingers slide across flesh, yearning, unfolding anticipation. Silky
lace, moist with the heat of desire. Hearts beat faster. Wild breaths, frantic
passionate deep kisses. The spring beneath Jeff's fingers flows