Read Online Take Me Now by Faith Sullivan - Free Book Online Page B

sure he intended. I can picture myself alone in bed with his voice filtering through my earbuds, describing what qualities he’s seeking in the ideal woman. I’m not sure I can look him in the eye as I ask him these questions. I’m feeling hot and bothered all of a sudden. Wherever this is leading is turning me on, big time.
    “Would you describe yourself as single?”
    “Yes.”
    “You’re not in any kind of committed relationship?”
    “No.”
    I want to ask him about Lauren but I chicken out. Whatever they have together, he doesn’t think it’s serious. She’d go on the warpath if she knew that and I’m not going to be the one to tell her.
    “What traits are most important to you in a woman?”
    “A kind smile. A willingness to speak her mind. A passion for life. Sensible footwear.”
    I can’t help it. My eyes dart over to his after that last remark. Is this whole thing a rouse to hit on me? Is that what he’s doing? My feminine instincts are kicking in, and although Will just kissed me an hour ago, I’m tempted to play along. Eric is in such a different place in his life. He has his own business. He’s a homeowner. He’s twenty-four. Compared to me, I’m an unpaid intern who lives in a dorm room with one year of college left to go. What could he possibly see in me?
    “What would you describe as the perfect date?”
    “Well, let’s see. I guess it’d be a stormy night with the rain tumbling down the roof and splashing up against the windows. We’d relax in our sweats or pajamas or whatever in front of the TV, watching old movies and eating popcorn. We’d be curled up in front of the fire, and I’d kiss her whenever a blast of thunder would rattle the foundation. But before things went too far, I’d go upstairs and run a bubble bath surrounded by candles. I’d call out to her, and she’d come looking for me only to find me already waiting in the tub. She’d take off her clothes, letting me watch until she was completely naked. I’d start to rise out of the water to go to her but she’d push me back among the suds as she joined me. Do you need me to go on?”
    I cross my ankles as a surge of heat hits between my legs. I’m virtually panting at the picture he’s painting. Who knew he had such a vivid imagination? And I’m the one who’s supposed to be the writer? He’s well aware that he’s got me all flustered. But I’m determined to be daring. Eric is offering me something Will never could. Here is a man who knows what it’s like to lose the one he loved. He realizes how precious life really is. He’s not employing me in some grand scheme to conquer the world. Maybe he hasn’t even been with a woman since Cassidy. It’s possible he’s only ever been with Cassidy. Maybe he’s ready to try something new.
    “Yes, go on.” I click off the recorder and stand up from the chair. His eyes widen in amazement as I softly lower myself onto his lap. I can feel him against me as the chair continues to rock. He stares at me before burying his hands in my hair then his lips crush against mine. This isn’t a kiss that’s meant to be on display, not like Will’s. It’s full of desire and need and hunger. He slides his hands under my shirt, cupping my breasts with his palms. His hands aren’t smooth. They’re callused and rough as they run across my delicate skin, but it just urges my arousal even more as I caress the stubble across his jawline. He refuses to release my lips, but I’m desperate for air as I arch my back, breaking our kiss.
    It’s then that I hear a car rolling across the gravel. Eric hastily pulls down my shirt to cover me up. I’m horrified to have to turn around and face whoever it is. Eric kisses the tip of my nose before whispering that it’ll be okay. Reluctantly, he hoists me off his lap, his strong hands encircling my waist. His touch lingers like he doesn’t want to relinquish his hold on me. I wish we could continue where this was going but it’s too late