~K~

"Taxi!" I call while I wave my hands around.

"That's the third taxi that's passed us. What the fuck?" Emma says as she looks around. She shivers and rubs her hands along her arms, the cool night air chillier than expected.

"I'd offer my shirt to you, but I don't know how that'll look, seeing as I don't have another shirt on underneath." I grin as I wave my hand at the next taxi. "Taxi, taxi." I jump up and down to get the driver's attention.

I must look like a Goddamned fool.

Emma giggles behind me, small hiccups escape her mouth.

We had one too many drinks and while we danced most of the alcohol off, both of us agree it's safer not to drive. It worked out pretty well, considering neither one of us drove our cars. Hmmm... was this planned?

The taxi screeches to a stop. "Finally." Emma says as she rushes to my side. She shivers again and I open the door of the cab, gesturing her inside. "You jumping around like a monkey must've done the trick."

I chuckle as she brushes by me and her scent invades my nose. My cock twitches in my pants for the umpteenth time tonight. I've lost count. This woman drives me wild.

I slide in and shut the door. Emma gives the driver her address and I wrap my arm around her shoulder. She nestles in under my arm as she rests her head against my chest.

I bury my nose in her hair as I brand her scent to my memory.

We're silent on the way to her house. Both of us lost in our thoughts. Tonight was one of the best nights I've had in a long time. I don't think I've had this much fun on a date before, or with a woman, in fact.

To experience new places, to joke and laugh with someone, and have amazing chemistry; how can I resist?

But, I must. Kisses with her, dates with her, it's a bad idea.

I'm a wounded soul who doesn't believe in relationships anymore. I'll only end up hurting her.

I don't fit her rules, well, not all of them anyway. Her mother and sister hate me already. I don't stand a chance.

All odds are against me.

So, why do I keep slipping farther and farther under her spell?

Why can't I resist her, like I have so many others before her?

I shake my head as my thoughts swarm my brain. I pull Emma closer, afraid tonight will be the last night she's in my arms.

The taxi pulls to a stop a few moments later and Emma sits up as she gathers her purse.

"I'll walk you out." I say to Emma before turning to the driver. "Excuse me, sir? I'll be back in a moment." The driver nods and I lean over Emma to open her door. I stiffen when I feel her warm breath on my neck, her mouth inches from my skin.

Before I turn my head, she's out of the car and I quickly follow.

We walk up to her door as I admire her cute house, a small but charming cape style home.

She fumbles for her keys as she turns to face me. "Well... thanks for a great night."

I smile down at her. This night is not ending with awkward goodbyes and unsure moments.

I reach my hands around her waist and pull her flush against me. She cries out in surprise, a small giggle escaping her mouth.

As I lean down, I lick her ear, my tongue circling the outside. "It's been an amazing night." I whisper as I feel her body shiver beneath me.

I trail my mouth down her cheek and along her jawline, before I connect with her mouth and an explosion of passion erupts. Her hands grip my shirt as our bodies melt together. My hands slid into her hair on their own accord, grasping and holding her to me as we devour each other. Our tongues slid together as her sweet taste invades my mouth.

Our kiss becomes more intense as the heat steadily rises between us.

The taxi horn sounds and we both jump back as if we're two teenagers caught by our parents.

My eyes rest on her swollen lips, the lips I want to taste again.

Leaning in, I brush my lips against her cheek, inhaling her scent as my eyes drift closed, branding her to my memory. There's a pull between us, something strong and deep, and now that I've had a taste, I'll never be the same again.

Pulling back, I cup her cheek with my hand, running my thumb across her mouth.

"Goodnight." I whisper. I brush my mouth along her cheek once again before I turn away. When I reach the taxi, I look back to see she hasn't moved. As she watches me, a small smile plays on her lips.

Fuck. I'm in trouble.

* * *

Hot water pounds my head, the heat leaving my skin red and warm. I will my headache to go away, the one I woke up with that's been pounding through my head all morning. Two cups of coffee and two ibuprofens later and I'm still in pain.

Last night was worth it though. I'd do it all over again to have another night with her.

I can't get her out of my fucking mind. When I arrived home last night, I never thought I'd get rid of the blue balls she left me with. After I relieved myself, I lay in my bed, Emma's face never leaving my mind.

My head is a jumbled mess. Emma has my brain and my heart yelling at each other, both in a duel with their stubborn selves.

A part of me wants to try, to give Emma a chance. But the other part of me still screams no over and over again. Sharon destroyed my life. And, I can't, no, I won't, let love destroy me again.

Emma isn't the wisest choice with her crazy family, but no one picks their family. You get what you get. I shouldn't hold it against her. But, I need something to hold on to, something that'll help me resist her.

Speaking of family, my sister has sent me several text messages, demanding to know the outcome of last night. My mother sent me a text about Ethan and wanting to visit him again before his court date. She's hoping I'll join her.

I lather myself with soap as I think. I'll never be able to commit to Emma in the way she deserves. She doesn't deserve damaged goods. And, that's what I am. That's all I'll ever be. Sharon paraded her way through my life. Nothing's ever been the same.

I need to be stronger. I need to resist her.

~E~

Tonight's the night.

Another date with Knox.

I should stay home. I should avoid him at all costs.

Instead, I've fought the voice in my head all week. I've pushed it away, deep down into the corner of my mind.

I've avoided the endless calls and messages from my mother and sister. Their demands and their questions push me farther away, even when they send my favorite chocolate chip cannoli from Tony's in the north end of the city.

I ate those damned cannoli and I loved every morsel.

They didn't sway me. I still said yes to Knox. He had to ask me twice and I avoided him all week, but in the end, I decided it's time to have some fun and think about myself for a change.

I was surprised when Knox asked me. We’d tip toed around each other until we found each other alone in the break room on Wednesday night.

He cornered me, his handsome face inches from mine. His hand touched my cheek and I leaned in, unable to help myself. Knox spoke to me in a soft whisper, his breath tickling my face. He said he couldn't get me out of his head, the need only got stronger. I studied his sexy jawline before blurting out a no. I hurried away like a fool. I knew if I stayed any longer, he'd have me agreeing to anything.

All day Thursday, in between patients, my thoughts drifted back to him. The most nagging question in my head is if he's only out to get one thing. He'll have his way with me and then leave me in the dust.

The rules he breaks are the ones my mother warned me most about. We work together, we have instant chemistry, and I definitely see us having sex before five dates. Those are the riskiest of the rules according to my mother. Hence why they made the top three.

A man like Knox could wreck me. Leave me with my heart ripped open, ruined for every other man. I've never been with a man who can weaken my knees with one kiss.

The connection we have is unmatched; our chemistry is off the charts. Sex with him would be my fatal mistake. I'm certain.

I'm not the type of girl to have one night stands. Sex is an emotional connection to me and while I've certainly had dirty, hot sex—it's always been inside a relationship. I can't have sex with someone without getting emotionally attached.

Or, maybe it's because I've always followed the rules. I've never actually tried having a one-night stand. But with the way I always got attached once sex was involved, I never thought much about it.

Knox brings up these thoughts and emotions I've had buried. I'm left puzzled, trying to wade through it all.

So, when Knox asked me again, this time coming in my office to consult on a patient, I made a compromise with myself.

Go on another date, but resist any type of physical contact. I'm not really breaking the rules, then, right? At least not all of them.

Why then, do I feel like a weight is sitting on my chest?

* * *

"Where are we going?" I peer out of the front seat of Knox's big truck. The sun has begun to set, the sky displaying different shades of pinks and oranges.

"It's a surprise." The truck turns down a dirt road. No cars, people, or houses in sight.

"You’d better not be taking me to some torture chamber."

Knox laughs, the sound filling the small space in the truck. "You'll have to see."

"Oh, so you wanted to stuff me with delicious food before you feast on me?"

"Ding, ding, ding. You got it."

I can't help the laughter that escapes.

Our night has been perfect. Knox picked me up and took me to this small hole in the wall Italian restaurant I've never heard of.

One bite of the chicken parmesan and fried eggplant had me moaning and groaning between each mouthful. I'm pretty sure the whole restaurant looked at me funny.

My love for Italian food runs deep and Knox sure does know how to win me over by stuffing me with penne pasta and garlic knots.

Moments later, we pull in front of a huge sprawling ranch home, complete with a wraparound farmer's porch. Holy shit, whose house is this?

The sky isn't quite dark yet, the lowering sun gives just enough light to cast a glow on the house. My eyes sweep over the massive house as I take in the white shingles and cornflower blue vinyl siding.

"You like it?" Knox asks.

I throw him a look, my eyebrows raising in question. "Is this yours?"

Knox shakes his head, his eyes scanning the area. "I wish."

"Then whose is it?"

"It's my grandfather's." Knox moves towards the porch and turns as he gestures towards the house. "Want to see inside?"

I nod. I hurry up the stairs, my curiosity getting the better of me. I'm also a secret house lover. Meaning I binge on HGTV sometimes. I can't help it.

We move through the rooms as Knox explains the history of the house.

"My grandfather built this house with his own two hands. He died before he was able to finish it. My mom's an only child, as was her dad. Her mother died when she was a teenager but her mother knew this house was for her. A labor of love from my grandfather to my grandmother. There's no family left now. So, here it sits. But, one day, it'll be mine."

I listen to his story as I picture the house finished and decorated. He looks around with so much love.

Underneath the insane chemistry and dorky sense of humor lies a good man with a big heart.

An hour later, we've explored the entire property, including some of the surrounding woods. I think I've fallen in love. With the house, that is.

Knox and I sit side by side on the steps. We enjoy a cold bottle of wine as the evening wears on and the stars come out to play.

Several times, he's tried to kiss me. And, several times I've moved away or changed the subject. How much longer can I resist?

Knox takes my glass of wine and places it next to his. He presses a few buttons on his phone and next thing I know, music fills the air.

The song from the club. The one we slow danced to.

Ed Sheeran's romantic voice croons into the night air as Knox pulls me close. I try to keep some distance but it's no use. Knox tightens his arms around me and I lean my head against his chest as we sway to the music.

As the song drifts on, Knox's mouth finds its way to mine.

This time, I don't fight it. I give in and let him take over, his mouth moving against mine in ways I've only dreamed of. I get lost in him. The moment, the passion, the kiss. He deepens it and I squeeze his biceps as I hold on.

Small moans escape our lips as we suck, lick, and bite each other's mouths. Knox's hands roam up and down my sides, over my curves and down to my ass.

The music is forgotten. All that's left is the two of us and the starry sky above.

He offers me his hand and I take it as he leads me into the house. He shuts the sliding porch door behind us and then lifts me up and onto the kitchen counter easily. Shock fills me, causing me to gasp out loud. No man has ever lifted me with such ease before.

Knox steps in between my legs, running his hands along my body and up to my face. He pulls my face down to his and crushes his mouth against mine. The kiss is urgent, needy, and rushed. As if he can't get what he wants quickly enough.

With me sitting on the counter, our heights now even, I'm one with his torso. I run my hands along his chest as shivers trail up my spine. His muscles are well toned and sculpted, my fingers ache to touch his bare skin.

He slides his hands up my thighs as his fingers trail over my skin. When I break away from the kiss, he is panting, his breath releasing in short spurts. With his eyes locked on mine, he slides my dress off my shoulders as he runs his hands over my black lace bra. He pushes my dress off, as he makes his way down my body with his mouth. He strokes my breasts over my bra, and continues to trail kisses down my stomach, and on my thighs.

Knox caresses the inside of my thighs with his mouth, licking and nipping, endlessly teasing me. I throw my head back as I run my hands through his hair. Pushing myself closer, I can't stop wiggling faster towards his mouth. His breath is hot on my panties and they dampen.

Trailing kisses up to my seam, he pulls me closer to the edge of the counter. He stands and yanks my panties down and I inhale sharply, the cool air caressing my skin.

His mouth finds mine again, his kisses soft. Knox slides two fingers inside and I gasp, as a moan escapes my lips. He eases my sudden ache by sliding his fingers in and out as I buck my hips against him. He picks up his pace and my mind goes blank. Fuck, this is amazing.

"You're so wet," Knox whispers against my lips. His fingers swirl inside and I can tell I'm close. My legs begin to quiver as the orgasm mounts.

Just as I'm about to crash, he pulls his fingers out and I'm left gasping for air, my entire body shaking.

"No, no don't stop." I cry out. I need release. It's been far too long...

"If you're going to cum for the first time with me Emma, then you'll cum on my cock." Knox explains with authority. It's sexy as fuck. I shut my mouth and patiently try to wait.

I watch with hooded eyes as Knox licks his fingers. "Mmmm, so sweet." Knox grumbles from deep in his chest.

I clench my thighs together and squeeze my eyes shut. I'll explode soon if he doesn't stop being so damned sexy.

He unbuttons his pants, freeing his erection. I run my hands along his warmth as I feel his hardness beneath my fingers. Fuck, his cock is gorgeous, so thick, long, and smooth.

He takes a condom out of his pocket, and rips it open, before sliding it down his shaft. "Are you ready?"

Before I could answer, he plunges inside me. I cry out in surprise, his thick cock filling and stretching me. He slides in and out as he moves faster with each thrust.

I can't take it anymore. My release is close and I need to let go.

I scream his name and cum hard on his cock, my legs quivering as the waves roll through. He finds his release seconds later, groaning and whispering my name. "Fuck, Emma."

That wasn't long enough, no way. I need more. Knox brings out this wild side in me and I can't help it nor control it. I'm not thinking anymore, just acting. Fulfilling some need, I can't figure out.

I slam my mouth to his as I grab his ass with both my hands.

"Don't move," I whisper against his mouth as I slide my tongue along his lips and push my way inside. His hands weave their way into my hair as he holds the back of my head.

My kiss is ravishing, intoxicating, and I keep him pinned to me, eventually replacing my hands with my legs as I lock them around his hips tight. I slide my fingers up his back and he shivers beneath me, despite his body being sticky with sex and sweat.

Knox breaks away from the kiss and he pulls back to peer down at me. I smile up at him wickedly, as I run my tongue along my lips. I never want to stop kissing him, licking him, tasting him. He is delicious, sexy, sinful, and oh so good.

"Fuck me again, but this time, don't ever stop." I say in a heated whisper.

Knox's eyes darken and he slips out of me, sliding off the used condom, and grabbing a fresh one to put on. He's still hard so the condom slides on easily, and he's back inside like he never left.

His hands grip the back of my scalp even harder, twisting in my hair. One hand moves down to grasp the nape of my neck, pulling my head to the side, exposing my neck fully. Knox fiercely swoops down, licking, nipping, and sucking on my neck down to my collarbone like I'm his last meal. Waves of pleasure shoot through me, as Knox works his way up to my ear, nipping my earlobe and licking behind it. Shivers run through me from head to toe, a sweet spot never once discovered before, all of sudden driving me mad.

I groan loudly, which only spurs Knox on, his torture of me causing his cock to grow inside me as I move myself against him. I push myself on his cock back and forth, fucking him while he assaults my neck, his hands holding me in place. My fingers dig into his back, his muscles rippling beneath them.

It's hot as fuck as I watch him move before me. I glance down to see his cock slide inside and out, disappearing into my wet folds before shooting back out again. Sex like this hasn't happened for me before. This amazing connection, the wanting to never stop, never getting enough, wanting to eat him alive.

Finally, Knox ends his attack on my neck as he finds my lips. I moan into them and he moves quicker, his stamina unbelievable. His hips get in sync with my own as he meets me thrust for thrust. The sound of slapping skin fills the room as his thrusts get harder.

My orgasm is building again and I feel Knox getting tense, which I'm pretty sure means he's getting close himself. An earth shattering orgasm is about to hit me, when Knox pulls out, his hot cock popping up against his stomach, our juices mixing together. He grabs my waist, pulling me down and flipping me around, my back to his front. He gently pushes my stomach against the cool counter top. I lean down as Knox runs his hand along my spine, his cock slowly entering from behind.

In and out, in and out, the movements get harder and faster. Knox slams against my ass as my pussy gets fucked raw and I'm loving every dirty second. I clutch the counter as Knox ravishes me, over and over again. Pushing up on my toes, I lift my ass higher and Knox groans as he stretches my ass, his cock sliding in even deeper. The sex is dirty and raw, hot and rough.

I feel my orgasm about to release, the intensity so much stronger this time around. Knox grips my hips so tightly as he pounds into me, and my body freezes as I crash down into an orgasm so mind-blowing, I begin shaking and screaming Knox's name. I don't even know how long the orgasm lasts because it keeps going and going, strong waves rolling over me, and a few moments later, he is cumming right along with me.

Knox slows down his movements, as he pops his cock out of me, and he turns around to stand next to me. He grabs my hips, steadying me as he turns me around. My legs shake, the remaining waves of my orgasm rushing through.

We lean back against the counter, trying to catch our breath. He wraps his arms around me, resting his chin on my head. When our breathing slows, he pulls away, leaning back to look at me.

"Holy fucking shit, Emma. That was... I don't even know what to say. You are fucking amazing." He leans down, brushing his lips against mine. "May I take you out for ice cream?"

I can't help but laugh. "Now you want to buy me ice cream, after you fucked me like a bad boy?"

Knox grins. "Of course. You deserve to be treated like a lady."

Shit, Emma. What did you just do? So much for the no sex rule...

Fuck, this could become very messy...