Chapter Fourteen
Late January
“What time is His Hotness due in today?”
Tessa forced herself not to flinch or otherwise betray her reaction to Gina’s casual inquiry. She also had to bite her tongue to stop herself from automatically replying to the question by informing everyone that Ian’s Town Car was even now pulling up to the curb downstairs, and that he would be striding through the office within the next few minutes.
She knew this, of course, because he’d just sent her a quick text with that very message. Within the first week of their new relationship, he’d presented her with a brand new, state of the art smartphone. Ian had been appalled to notice how old and outdated her cell phone had been, and the one he’d replaced it with was linked directly to his own.
“My private cell phone,” he’d clarified, “and not the one I use for business. Only a very few people even have this number so we don’t need to worry about anyone from the office reading texts or emails we send each other.”
And he had very quickly made it a habit to send her regular and frequent messages, especially over these past few days when he’d been away on business. He’d flown out last Sunday afternoon on the corporate jet to visit properties in the Pacific Northwest – Portland, Seattle, Vancouver and Victoria. It had been the first time they’d been separated since becoming lovers, and the time apart had been agonizing for Tessa. She hadn’t imagined she could miss him so much after being together for such a short period of time, but the separation had been awful. The only things that had gotten her though the last four and a half days had been all those texts and emails, and his nightly phone calls.
She knew his plane had landed last night, for he’d called her on the way home from the airport. He’d called her again as she was getting dressed for work this morning, largely to ask her in a sexy voice what set of undies she was going to wear today so that he could imagine her in them all day. Just the sound of his deep, cultured voice had been more than enough to arouse her, and she’d almost had to change out of the lacy black panties she’d put on when they quickly grew damp.
“You have no idea how much I’m looking forward to seeing you again, darling,” he’d told her huskily. “I may lock you in my bedroom all weekend. After being celibate for over two years now I can’t even go four days without you.”
Tessa knew the feeling all too well. Sex with Peter had been so infrequent and so frustratingly unsatisfying that she hadn’t known what a normal, healthy sexual relationship was really like. But even after such a brief time with Ian, her body craved him almost constantly. She wasn’t sure how she was going to hold back the urge to fling herself into his arms when he walked through the office any minute now.
“Ah, and he’s arrived,” murmured Kevin in a hushed tone. “What suit is it today, Gina?”
Gina glanced up as Ian began to walk past their cubicles. “It’s the black pinstriped Dolce & Gabbana. He must have a hot date tonight, usually only wears that one on special occasions.”
Tessa couldn’t hold back the small smile that crossed her face, first from knowing that Ian’s “hot date” was with her, and also from realizing that he’d worn that particular suit especially for her.
They had both been fresh from a very intimate shower they’d taken after a workout in his home gym. It had been last Sunday, the day he’d had to fly out on his trip, and he’d invited her to help him pack. Tessa had happily agreed, liking the idea of doing things for him, and also enjoying the opportunity to familiarize herself a little with the contents of his extensive wardrobe.
At his instructions, she’d located the various drawers where his socks, underwear, and workout clothes were stored, and handed him several sets of each. He packed everything with the expertise of a longtime world traveler into his Bottega Veneta suitcase, along with a fully stocked toiletry case that he always kept ready to go.
“Suits next, darling, then shirts and ties. Which suits do you fancy the best?” he’d asked.
Tessa’s gaze had been drawn automatically to the elegant black pinstriped one. He didn’t wear that one very often, but she could easily imagine how handsome and sinfully sexy he would look in it.
“This one’s my favorite,” she had told him. “So maybe you shouldn’t take it with you.”
Ian had cocked his head to one side, regarding her curiously. “And why is that, love?”
She had stalked towards him then, her eyes glued to the wide expanse of his bare chest, the towel wrapped around his waist his only article of clothing. She’d been wearing a beautiful little robe he’d bought her, of champagne silk that ended at mid-thigh and felt decadent against her skin.
Tessa had run her fingers lightly up over his ripped biceps to the rock hard muscles of his broad shoulders. Her lips had begun to trace a path across his pecs. “Because I don’t want any other women to see how hot you look in it. Especially since I won’t be there with you,” she had murmured huskily.
Then, before he could stop her, she’d sunk to her knees and ripped away his towel, exposing his massively aroused penis. The curse he’d uttered as she’d taken him into her hands had been guttural, but he hadn’t offered up any resistance as she had stroked him persuasively.
“You’re getting awfully good at this,” he’d croaked, as one of her hands pumped his cock while the other reached back to give his swollen balls a light squeeze.
Tessa had given him an impish grin. “You know what they say – practice makes perfect. But I really think I need to keep practicing, don’t you?”
Ian’s breath had expelled in a long, drawn-out hiss as she’d taken him into her mouth. As she had continued to suck him eagerly, he’d fisted his hand in her wet hair, holding her head still as he thrust into her warm, willing mouth.
After he came minutes later, he’d hauled her up into his arms and whispered naughtily in her ear, “I think you’ve perfected that particular skill as well.”
And then he had proceeded to untie the belt of her silky robe, cupping her breasts, before dropping to the floor and returning the favor she’d just bestowed on him – using his considerable oral skills to bring her to a stunning orgasm.
Tessa squirmed a little in her desk chair as she remembered just how hard she’d come, and then realized her panties were getting soaked all over again at the recollection.
She was able to pull it together just enough to murmur a subdued “Good morning, Mr. Gregson” along with the others as he passed them by. Any disappointment she felt at knowing he couldn’t make any sort of direct eye contact with her, or single her out in any way in his greeting, was quickly dispelled a couple of minutes later when her new phone pinged, signaling an incoming text.
Tessa kept the phone tucked into a pocket of her purse, where she could easily take discreet little peeks at it without any of her co-workers noticing. She forced herself not to smile or betray her reaction in any other way, but couldn’t stop the warm feeling that spread throughout her body as she read Ian’s text.
Good morning, love, Wishing I could give u a big kiss right now. Can’t wait 4 tonite.
She waited until she was sure no one else was watching and tapped out a reply.
Morning to u 2. Txs for wearing my fav suit. U look very sexy.
There was a prompt reply. Txs 4 wearing my fav undies. Counting minutes till I can take them off u.
She had to fight off the urge to giggle as she replied. Yes but I might have 2 take them off cuz they’re kind of damp.
Ian didn’t respond for almost ten minutes, and she’d almost given up hope that he would when the familiar ping sounded. This time she couldn’t hold back the smile that stretched across her features.
Sorry on a call. Sounds like u need 2 keep spare undies with u. We’ll buy more tomorrow.
Kevin looked at her curiously as she forced her attention back to her computer screen. “You look like you’re in a good mood, sweetie. Whatcha smiling about?”
Tessa tried her hardest to seem nonchalant. “Oh, just thinking about an episode of Modern Family I caught last night. This really hilarious scene where the gay couple had these oversized stuffed animals strapped to the roof of their car.”
Kevin’s face instantly lit up. “I know exactly what scene you’re talking about. The stuffed gorilla keeps rocking back and forth like it’s trying to hump the elephant. Priceless, isn’t it?”
That fortunately distracted him – sadly, it didn’t seem to really take much to accomplish that – and he was riffing about other TV shows for the next half hour. Meanwhile, Tessa continued to feel a little thrill each time she got a flirty little text from Ian. It was almost like they were high school sweethearts, exchanging naughty messages during English class. Except that she’d never had a real boyfriend in high school, and had certainly never been carefree enough to text flirt with one. So she allowed herself this indulgence now, this feeling like she was sixteen again and flirting with the really hot guy she’d had a mad crush on for two years. She allowed the indulgence because she’d never had the opportunity before, had never really been sixteen or even a teenager, had never known the sweetness and innocence of a first love.
The work day flew by quickly, as it usually seemed to do when Ian returned from a trip. Andrew was delegating tasks to the team right and left, no doubt as quickly as his boss was passing them on to him. Tessa had three complex spreadsheets to update plus two new ones to create, and immersed herself in her work.
She was so engrossed in what she was doing that at first she paid no attention to what Gina and Alicia were yakking about. Tessa honestly had no idea how the two of them got any significant amount of work done, given the frequency and length of their conversations. But then she caught the tail end of a question Gina was asking, and found herself listening discreetly for Alicia’s reply.
“...didn’t bring a date to the ballet fundraiser? Not even his little ballerina friend?”
Tess knew they were discussing Ian, and an event he’d attended last week. It had been, as Gina mentioned, a fundraising cocktail party for the San Francisco Ballet, of which Ian was a patron. He had been reluctant to attend without Tessa, but had glumly acknowledged he couldn’t very well take her along. Yet.
“This is why you need to move things along, darling,” he’d admonished. “Why you need to resign and move in with me – so that I can take you with me to these dreadfully boring events and show you off to everyone.”
She hadn’t been able to resist teasing him just a little. “But if they’re so boring, wouldn’t we be better off finding something more – er, fun to do?”
He’d given her a light smack on the ass. “Cheeky little devil. Yes, you’re right, but there are some events I just can’t shrug off, I’m afraid. However, if you were with me, then they wouldn’t be nearly so boring.” He’d whispered in her ear then, causing a shiver to run up her spine, “I’d probably try to find ways all evening of copping a feel. That would certainly make things a damned sight more interesting.”
Tessa bit her lip to keep from groaning at the memory, especially when she recalled what had happened next. She distracted herself from her wayward thoughts by casually eavesdropping on the rest of her co-workers conversation.
“No, he was definitely there solo according to my mother,” confirmed Alicia. “And didn’t stick around very long, either. Plus, his date for the Christmas party – remember the banker in the Elie Saab gown? – has apparently been seen out with a new man.”
Gina grinned. “So does this mean His Hotness is back on the market? Maybe it’s time for you to finally turn in that resignation and go for it, girl. Oh, but you’ve got Ross now, don’t you?”
Alicia sniffed. “Seriously? You think Ross can hold a candle to him? Nobody is on the same scale as the boss man, nobody. Besides, when he showed up without a date last week the speculation was running rampant that he has someone else but that she isn’t local. If he keeps attending these events on his own, then we’ll know it’s true.”
‘Not necessarily’ was on the tip of Tessa’s tongue. She and Ian had discussed the matter of his past dates, and he’d explained in some detail about each of the women he’d escorted to functions over the last couple of years. Rebecca – the banker – was carrying on a clandestine affair with a married politician; Erica – the news anchor – was married but her husband was severely disabled and rarely left their home; and the ballerina – Gabriela – an ethereally lovely, waifishly slim portrait of delicate femininity was actually a lesbian. She kept that fact a carefully guarded secret for fear that it would have a negative impact on her career.
But despite the fact that his relationships with all three women were strictly platonic, Ian had declared he wouldn’t escort any of them again. Until such time as Tessa was able to arrive on his arm, he would attend as few events as possible and those selected ones alone. She longed to throw that fact in Alicia’s snotty face, but continued to keep a lid on her emotions.
Fortunately it was time for the roommates to leave for lunch, and it was blissfully quiet once again. Tessa was so focused on her work that she didn’t hear her phone pinging. It was three texts later that she finally paid attention and hastily grabbed her phone, tapping out a swift reply to Ian’s messages.
Sorry lost in your spreadsheets. This last one is tuff.
His reply came within seconds.
Need some help?
She couldn’t suppress a wicked grin as she answered. With the spreadsheet or my wet panties?
Long seconds later his reply pinged. I think u have discovered the fine art of sexting. Tonite u might discover the equally fine art of spanking.
Tessa clapped a hand over her mouth to keep from giggling, conscious that Shelby and Marisol were nearby. She couldn’t resist typing back. OK I’ll behave.
Ian’s reply was swift. Damn. Not the answer I wanted.
Mischievously she replied. But u can still spank me. Sir.
When she had teasingly called him that at work one day last week, he’d explained to her later than evening about BDSM and dominant/submissive relationships.
“The submissive – most often the female in the relationship – is supposed to address the dominant as Sir or Master. So when you call me that, it makes me feel a bit uncomfortable. If you have to address me in the office, let’s try to keep it to Mr. Gregson, hmm?”
She’d toyed with the lapel of his shirt before asking him quietly, “That – that isn’t the sort of relationship you’ve ever had, is it? Or want to have?”
“God, no,” he’d replied fervently. “I’ve never been interested in any of that stuff. Nor would I ever consider marring even an inch of your perfect skin with a whip or a rope. And I would never, ever, order you around or demand your obedience. That thought doesn’t appeal to me in the least. We’re going to be equal partners in this relationship, Tessa. Both in and out of bed.”
As usual, whatever he said was so overwhelmingly romantic that she’d felt like swooning in his arms. Tessa was still having to pinch herself on a continual basis, in disbelief that someone as wonderful as Ian was really interested in her. She’d been half-afraid that all he’d wanted was a quick roll in the sack, and that as soon as they had slept together he would get bored and break things off. But it seemed her fears were completely unfounded, for everything he’d said had indicated he expected their relationship to be a long term one.
Ian had an afternoon meeting and then a conference call, so the frequent, flirty texts came to a halt. But as it drew closer to five o’clock – the time she was due to meet him – Tessa couldn’t help the flutters of excitement that shimmied through her body. She remained quiet as her co-workers chattered about their weekend plans, and when Shelby asked her directly what she had going on, she kept her reply intentionally vague.
“Oh, you know, the usual stuff. Sleeping in a bit, maybe catching a yoga class, just relaxing.”
She was relieved that she didn’t actually have to lie, because she did plan to sleep in and spend some time relaxing. The fact that she planned to do both with Ian was not something her co-workers needed to know.
Tessa wasn’t at all surprised to see the black Town Car parked in the exact location that Ian had texted her. She knew he hated these clandestine meetings, having to sneak around so no one from the office would see them together. And he’d been fairly patient so far, but Tessa knew his natural tendency to control would take over sooner than later and he’d be pressuring her to quit her job and move in with him. She was probably ten kinds of an idiot for not automatically giving in to him and doing exactly as he wanted. She couldn’t imagine too many other women in her position resisting Ian for very long. But she just needed some time to feel more comfortable with him, more secure that she wasn’t going to embarrass or disappoint him in some way, as well as feeling more confident in her own abilities to take care of herself and not just let Ian assume entire responsibility for her.
Simon was standing by the side of the car as she approached, a polite smile affixed to his otherwise impassive features. He gave her a nod as he opened the back door for her. “Good evening, Miss Lockwood.”
Tessa smiled a bit uncertainly, not able to keep herself from worrying if the rather starchy Simon considered her a golddigger. Or a slut. Or both. She shook off her hopefully unfounded fears and merely replied, “You, too, Simon. Thank you.”
And then any fears or doubts she might have been harboring were swiftly dashed away as Ian’s hand closed firmly over her arm, pulling her into his embrace as she slid onto the seat.
“Christ, I missed you,” he rasped, and then his mouth took hers in a raw, open-mouthed kiss, his tongue sweeping through her mouth demandingly.
Tessa clutched the lapels of his black wool overcoat and kissed him back hungrily, as starved for his touch as he so obviously was for hers. Neither of them noticed Simon discreetly starting up the car and pulling out into the very congested downtown commute traffic.
They were both breathing hard when Ian finally lifted his head, and Tessa was startled to realize she’d somehow managed to climb onto his lap. But when she started to ease off of him back onto the seat, his big hands clamped down on her hips, holding her in place.
Her cheeks flushed, she whispered to him urgently, “Aren’t you afraid Simon will notice?”
Ian grinned, shaking his head. “Not in the least. Simon is very discreet, as I’ve mentioned before, and he also knows I’m quite fixated on you. So you can keep this very delectable bottom of yours right where it is.”
Tessa sighed in bliss and lowered her head to his shoulder in surrender. “Okay.” She turned her head and pressed a kiss to his cheek before murmuring softly, “I really missed you, too.”
His arms tightened about her in reaction. “I trust you’re going to show me exactly how much as soon as we get inside the house,” he replied in a low, urgent voice.
She bit down on the inside of her cheek, stifling a gasp as his hand worked its way under the hem of her black skirt, squeezing the flesh of her inner thigh. “I’m not sure I can wait that long,” she told him, trying very, very hard not to moan as his long fingers traced the crotch of her panties.
“I can tell,” he breathed in a low voice. “You’re very aroused, aren’t you, love? Have you been like this all day?”
She nodded, closing her eyes in ecstasy as he slid one finger beneath her soaked underwear and began to stroke the moist folds of her labia. “Ever – ever since you called me this morning,” she confessed breathlessly.
Ian’s tongue traced around her ear while his finger continued to tease her drenched slit. “And I’ve been hard and aching for you all damned day, imagining how you look in these skimpy black lace bits. Stockings, too, I see.” His hand slid back down to the top of her leg where her silky black thigh-highs ended.
Her body suddenly felt overly warm, her breasts swollen and achy, and she squirmed on his lap, her bottom brushing against his thick, fully erect cock. “Please,” she whispered shakily, not quite sure what she was asking him for.
But he knew, apparently very well, because this time he slid two fingers under the band of her panties, plunging them as deep inside of her as he could manage, given their somewhat limited space.
“Shhh,” he urged in a hushed tone, as a low moan began to escape her throat. “If I agree to take care of you here, love, than you have to promise to be very, very quiet. Knowing how shy you are, you’ll never be able to look Simon in the face again if he hears you come.”
Tessa gave a quick nod, and then fisted her knuckles against her mouth. Stifling the sounds of her pleasure proved an almost impossible task, however, especially when Ian’s talented fingers brought her to a swift, stunning climax. Still, she remained silent, the very thought of Simon hearing her beyond mortifying.
This time when she slid off his lap, Ian didn’t protest, merely taking her hand in his.
“Thank you.” She leaned over to whisper in his ear. “I’ll, um, return the favor later.”
He chuckled before whispering back, “We’re not keeping score here, love. But I’ll certainly take you up on your very inviting offer before the weekend is over. Quite possibly before this night is.”
For the remainder of the drive to his house, they were on their best behavior, their linked hands the only parts of their bodies touching. They talked about work, his trip, the weather forecast for the weekend which was supposed to be pleasant and warmer than was the norm for this time of year.
Tessa’s interest was piqued. “Can we have breakfast out on the terrace? I don’t mind if it’s a little cool in the morning, do you?”
He smiled at her indulgently, as though she were a little girl who’d just asked for a new doll. “Not at all, darling. Especially since the terrace is nicely sheltered from the wind. Not to mention all the patio heaters I have outside.”
She beamed at him. “So, it’s a date, then? Will you let me cook for you again?”
Ian brushed his thumb over her lips. “If that gives you pleasure, then, yes, of course. But you’re going to spoil me very quickly if I allow you to keep doing things like that.”
“I like doing things for you,” she told him guilessly. “And you deserve to be spoiled, especially after everything you’ve done for me. Has no one ever done that for you?”
“Spoiled me, you mean?” He shook his head. “Not that I’ve lived a deprived lifestyle by any means. But my parents were determined that my brothers and I not grow up to be pampered, snobbish brats so we weren’t overly indulged as children. As far as another woman spoiling me – I can honestly say that you’re the only one who’s ever offered to do so.”
Tessa smiled in delight. “Once again I’m very happy that I was the first for you in some small way.”
Ian’s expression was one of incredible tenderness, so much that it made her heart soar. “Tessa, you have no idea how many firsts you’ve already given me. When the time is right, I’ll tell you exactly what they are.”
They arrived at his house moments later, not giving her an opportunity to quiz him on his mysterious comment. And then, almost the very second the front door was shut behind them, she wasn’t given the chance to do anything but submit willingly to his very urgent desires.
“Hurry,” he urged, leading her up the stairs to his room. “It feels like four years since I’ve had you instead of only four days.”
Clothes were shed in between hungry, passionate kisses, a trail of coats, shoes, shirts, and other garments left in their wake as they stumbled into his bedroom. Tessa still wore her lingerie and shoes as he all but flung her onto the bed, while he was splendidly nude save for his snug-fitting black briefs. Her blue eyes grew round and huge as he swiftly divested himself of his last remaining article of clothing, baring his truly magnificent body to her eager gaze, the sight of his massive erection causing her to pant in anticipation.
She hadn’t expected him to be gentle, given the near-desperation of his kisses, but she still cried out in shocked surprise as he fisted one hand in her panties, yanking them down her legs, just before surging as deep inside of her as possible in one masterful stroke.
“Ah, ah, oh, my God,” she wailed, feeling the head of his cock battering against the tip of her womb. “Ian – oh - ”
Her voice trailed off as he began moving inside of her roughly, his voice low as he uttered a series of brusque instructions.
“Lift your legs up onto my shoulders. Yes, like that. God, that’s good.”
“That’s it, love, wrap those beautiful long legs around my neck.”
“Ah, Christ, you’re so damned tight. I’m not going to last long this first time.”
Just when Tessa didn’t think he could possibly fill her even one more inch, couldn’t get any deeper inside of her, he slid his hands beneath her buttocks and lifted her several inches off the mattress. At his first hard thrust from this position, she came instantly, sobbing out his name as the pleasure rocked through her body.
He continued his hard, almost brutal thrusts until she heard him curse vividly, “Jesus, fuck,” and then he was coming uncontrollably, his body jerking over and over. Tessa gazed up at him, spellbound by his erotic male beauty – his dark hair damp with sweat, his eyes tightly shut as he continued to spill himself inside of her. Even as she felt the hot, sticky bursts of semen begin to trickle down her inner thighs, he was still coming, still filling her with his seed.
He groaned as he collapsed on top of her, crushing her much lighter body into the mattress as he buried his damp face against the side of her neck. She stroked his head soothingly, her lips touching his temples and brow. They remained just that way for several minutes, until the weight of his heavily muscled body was too much and she began to gasp a little for air. Ian quickly slid off of her onto his side, drawing her close.
“Sorry, sorry,” he murmured, his hand tilting her head back. “I didn’t hurt you, did I? Not just now, but, well, before when - ”
“No.” She gave him a brief kiss. “You didn’t. But I think I might have seen some stars there for a few minutes.”
Ian chuckled. “I know the feeling, love. Except I think I was in another solar system entirely. God, the way you make me lose all control, Tessa – that’s never, ever happened to me before.”
She ran her hand up and down his arm, squeezing his bulging bicep along the way. “It’s hard to imagine you ever losing control. At the office you’re always in total command, everyone’s more than a little intimidated by you.”
He captured her roving hand, running his tongue over the knuckles. “Ah, but I don’t have a mostly naked, entirely tempting goddess to entice me into losing control there. Well, I do, but you’re not - ”
“Mostly naked there,” she finished. “Except for one very embarrassing time.”
He laughed in recollection. “I have to keep the door to my washroom closed most of the time, you know. Otherwise, every time I look in that direction all I can see is the vision you made standing in the doorway that night, these gorgeous breasts almost spilling out of that bra. Speaking of which.”
Tessa gasped as his hand slid up her bare hip past her ribcage to squeeze one breast. In the next moment she’d been tumbled onto her back and he was straddling her thighs, his gaze locked hotly on her breasts still encased in the black lace bra.
He dipped a finger into her deep cleavage. “I’ve been imagining you all day long in this bra, you know,” he told her huskily. “But no fantasy is quite as remarkable as the real thing. Let me see you now, Tessa.”
He unhooked the bra with ease and peeled the cups away, baring her full breasts. Their groans were simultaneous as he filled his palms with her warm flesh, his fingers plucking the nipples into even harder peaks. She whimpered as his caresses grew more aggressive, his fingers twisting and pinching the nipples, his large hands palming her breasts roughly.
“Do you like this?” he asked in a voice that demanded a reply.
“Y-yes,” she breathed. “S-so good.”
Ian slid down her body, his lips tracing a hot path from the base of her throat down between her breasts. Then his tongue was licking a slow, deliberate circle around one reddened nipple, as her back bowed off the mattress, her hands clutching at the sheets.
“Easy, love,” he soothed her, stroking her hip. “You’re so responsive, Tessa, so naturally uninhibited.”
“Ummm.” She sighed in bliss as his mouth closed over her nipple, sucking it until she was squirming. He shifted his lips to the other breast, while his hand slid down over her quivering belly into the soft nest of her pubic hair. Two long fingers thrust deep inside her slit, where she was still sticky from his very recent orgasm.
“You’re all creamy from my cum,” he purred in her ear, his thumb brushing over her clit and making her thrash wildly beneath him. “It feels as though I’ve marked you, claimed this tight little pussy as my own.” His fingers thrust as deeply inside her as they could reach. “And you are mine, Tessa, make no mistake about it. You belong to me now, and I’ve no intention of letting that change.”
“Yes, yours,” she sobbed as he continued to arouse her, the thrust of his fingers and the rasp of his thumb twin assaults on her already over-stimulated senses. She cried out almost plaintively as he brought her over the edge yet again.
“Beautiful,” he murmured, holding her tight. “You’re magnificent when you come, Tessa. It makes me want to see how many times I can bring you that sort of bliss.”
She felt limp and replete, almost boneless as her arms twined loosely around his neck. “Okay,” was all she could manage in response.
Ian gave a low laugh. “Perhaps just one more, hmm? Then I’ll get us fed so we can keep our strength up. After all, our weekend has barely begun.”
Tessa was so lightheaded and sated from her most recent orgasm that she didn’t think it was possible for her to even move, much less make love again. But then Ian was gently rolling her onto her side, his hard body spooning her, and she gasped when he eased inside of her from that position.
“All right there, love?” he hummed, even as he lifted her leg to wrap around his hip. “You’re not too sore, are you?”
“Mmm, no.” She expelled a breath as he slid in and out of her, gently this time, as though he were savoring each slow, careful thrust.
“You feel so good, Tessa,” he groaned. “God, I’ve never felt this much before, felt like I could keep fucking you for hours. It’s perfect, you’re perfect.”
He grasped her chin and tipped her head back just far enough so he could kiss her long and hot, his tongue sweeping lazily through her mouth until she was mindless with the pleasure.
Her climax this time was as gentle and tender as his lovemaking had been, but no less satisfying. Ian held her within his arms for a long time after he came, until they were almost falling asleep.
After a leisurely shower, they dressed in comfy loungewear and picked up their discarded clothing from the hallway and stairs. Ian ordered in Chinese food for them, from a restaurant that was light years better than the greasy takeout places in her neighborhood. They ate in the kitchen, sharing a bottle of perfectly chilled Chardonnay, before settling in to watch a movie in the library.
Mrs. Sargent had stocked their favorite ice cream flavors for them – Ben & Jerry’s cookie dough for her, Haagen Daas chocolate peanut butter for him.
Ian grinned as Tessa licked ice cream off the back of her spoon. “Remind me to add whipped cream to next week’s shopping list. Maybe some chocolate or caramel syrup, too.”
Tessa wrinkled her nose. “The ice cream is rich enough for me. I’m not sure I want to spoil the taste with that other stuff.”
He leaned over and licked a dab of ice cream off the corner of her mouth. “Ah, but it isn’t for the ice cream, love,” he teased. He trailed a finger around one of her breasts. “I think this would taste even more delicious with some syrup drizzled on it.” His hand drifted over her belly to cup the juncture of her thighs. “And I could get very inventive with a can of whipped cream.”
Her head fell back against the sofa, her spoon clattering to the floor as he rubbed her clit through her yoga pants. “Sounds – ah, messy. We might – ooh – get the sheets sticky.”
His tongue traced over her lips, his mouth cool from the ice cream. “That’s the plan, darling.”
***
Tessa stared in some dismay at the amount of clothing, shoes, lingerie, and other accessories that had been strategically hung up and arranged around the oversized dressing room. She hadn’t realized that they had picked out quite so many items for her to try on while perusing the various racks earlier in the day.
She turned to face Ian, who’d taken a seat on the wide, padded bench that took up most of one wall of the room. “I can’t possibly need all of these clothes,” she told him firmly. “It will take me hours to try everything on.”
He raised a brow at her expectantly. “Well, then, you’d best get on with it, hadn’t you? I made dinner reservations for seven-thirty so there’s not much time to waste.”
Tessa frowned, glancing at the wall clock. “But it’s not even one-thirty, we have hours yet.”
Ian smiled meaningfully. “Ah, but I have other plans for you this afternoon as well. And you’ll likely need both a hot shower and a long nap afterwards.”
She felt her cheeks grow warm at his very pointed words. He’d made love to her again last night after carrying her upstairs to bed, but she’d been too sleepy and a bit on the sore side this morning for anything more than some cuddling. To her delight, the weather had been pleasant and sunny, and they’d been able to enjoy breakfast out on his secluded flagstone terrace. The gardens and backyard decks of his house were as beautifully designed as the interior, and Tessa was looking forward to exploring them in more detail with the approach of springtime in a few more weeks.
By mid-morning they’d arrived at Neiman Marcus, and meeting with Marlene who seemed very pleased to be helping them again. Tessa had struggled not to feel lost as Ian had taken her by the hand, examining an endless assortment of clothing for her to try on. Marlene had followed in their wake, tagging each item as they went along and taking copious notes besides.
Ian seemed to have an innate sense for the styles, colors and fabrics that suited her best, and she was more than happy to follow his suggestions. On the rare occasions that she didn’t like something he chose, he adhered to her wishes immediately. And if she spotted an item that caught her fancy, he instantly agreed with her choice. The one thing he strictly forbade her to do was even glance at a single price tag.
To give Marlene and her staff adequate time to assemble all of the items, Ian had whisked her off to the in-store restaurant for a quick lunch. Tessa hadn’t missed the way the mostly female patrons eyed him admiringly, and she couldn’t blame them in the least. He was so handsome, so compelling, that she couldn’t take her eyes off of him even for a minute. Ian did everything with a masterful touch, whether it was directing his division of the company, choosing clothes for her, or ordering their lunch. She envied him his easy confidence; the way he commanded respect and attention – both male and female – without much more than a glance; and the natural charisma that drew admiring looks even when he went out of his way to be discreet.
He was clean shaven this morning, but she knew that his five o’clock shadow would start appearing sooner than later. He wasn’t wearing a suit since it was a Saturday, but the perfectly pressed gray wool slacks and black fisherman’s sweater worn over a crisp white shirt were still elegant and classy, giving him the look of a 1940’s cinema star – a Cary Grant or Clark Gable. Tessa was glad she’d worn one of her new dresses – a gorgeous Donna Karan burgundy wool wrap-front paired with taupe Jimmy Choo heels. The chic, expensive outfit made her feel worthy of being seen with Ian, and also of fitting in with the other well-dressed store patrons.
Marlene had raved about her outfit when they’d arrived this morning, complementing the color and fit.
“But then with your hair and skin tone you can really wear almost any color,” the personal shopper had acknowledged. “Not to mention the fabulous figure you have.” Then, in a hushed tone for Tessa’s ears only, she’d added, “It’s small wonder he’s so crazy about you, dear. He can’t keep his eyes off of you for very long.”
It was on the tip of Tessa’s tongue to reply that the feeling was mutual, but Ian had called her over at that point to look at a selection of cocktail dresses.
Now in the dressing room, Tessa glanced around in confusion. “I don’t even know where to begin,” she confessed.
Ian gestured at the far end of the room. “Just begin down there, darling, and work your way across. If there’s something you don’t like, you can leave it on the rolling rack they brought in.”
She sighed. “Okay, here goes. But I’m telling you right now – there is no way you’re buying me all of this stuff.”
He gave her an indulgent smile. “We’ll see.”
Tessa was very aware of his gaze upon her as she stripped off the burgundy dress and stood there in her lacy lingerie – a sumptuous bra of blush colored lace and matching lacy panties that bared half of her ass, along with the sheer lace topped thigh-highs that Ian seemed to be fascinated with. She heard him mutter something indecipherable under his breath and glanced his way inquisitively.
“Something the matter?” she asked, reaching for the first dress on the rack.
His gaze was fixated on her breasts as he shook his head slowly. “Not one damned thing, no. You look – Jesus, it’s going to be a bloody long afternoon watching you dress and undress.”
She gave him a cheeky smile. “Hey, this was your idea. I wasn’t the one who picked out enough clothes to fill two closets.”
Ian scoffed. “Darling, what’s on these racks won’t even make a dent in the space set aside for you in my closet. Correction, our closet, At least it will be when you move in. And you’ll need all of these things plus a great deal more when you start traveling with me.”
Tessa shook her head in disbelief, even as she zipped up the Roland Mouret dress of jade blue wool. “This is an obscene amount of stuff. I’ve never needed more than a few blouses and skirts and a handful of dresses before.”
He gave her a quick look-over in the classy dress with its asymmetrical neckline and fitted waist before nodding in approval. “That one for sure. The color is perfect for you. And yes, I’m aware you’ve made do with a limited wardrobe before and think all of this is unnecessary. But if you’re going to live in my world, darling, you’ll have to get used to this sort of thing. Like it or not, you’ll be somewhat in the public eye, certainly photographed when we attend events, and dressing well is something of a requirement.”
She gave a reluctant nod “I understand. And I don’t want to embarrass you, Ian. I already feel awkward and completely out of your league. I’m sure everyone is wondering what in the world you see in me.”
“Tessa.” He beckoned her over and she walked to stand between his spread legs, his hands resting on her waist. His voice was stern but gentle as he told her, “You could never embarrass me. I’ve told you that already. And it’s absolutely no secret what I see in you – the most gorgeous, sexy and enchanting woman I’ve ever known. On the contrary, they’re all wondering what a hot young thing sees in this old man.”
She opened her mouth to protest but he shushed her with a finger pressed to her lips. “Let’s not have this debate again, hmm? I’m absurdly proud to have you with me, Tessa, and I can’t wait until we’re able to be seen together everywhere. Now, best move this sexy little tush along and torture me some more with the sight of you in these lace bits.”
She squealed as he gave her a swat and hurried to change into the next outfit.
After almost an hour, it seemed she’d made barely a dent in the dozens of items hanging on the racks, not to mention trying on the coordinating shoes, scarves, belts and jackets. Marlene popped in every so often to check on the progress, offer up an opinion, fetch a different size if needed. As the second hour drew to a close, Tessa was relieved to see that only one more dress remained.
“Last one,” she sighed, zipping up the navy cap-sleeved Michael Kors sheath. “I need a cup of tea after this. Maybe one of those strawberry scones left from breakfast, too.”
“Ah, but you forgot about these. You still have to try this little pile on,” he reminded her, holding up an exquisite pink lace bra.
There were at least a dozen or more bras, chemises, and other articles of couture lingerie resting on the padded bench to his right.
“Oh.” She had in fact forgotten about the intimate apparel he’d also selected and forced herself to stifle a yawn. “Can’t I just – um, you know, look these over and kind of guess what will fit right?”
Ian shook his head, handing her the frothy pink lace bra. “After all, this is the part of the fashion show I’ve been looking forward to the most.”
Tessa took the bra from him a bit hesitantly, not missing the heated expression in his gaze. But she only nodded, unhooked the blush colored bra she’d worn here and replaced it with the new pink one.
She couldn’t suppress the gasp that rose up from her throat as he pulled her between his spread legs again, then ran a finger over the tops of the lacy cups before slipping under one of the satiny straps.
“Beautiful,” he rasped. “We’ll definitely take this one.”
She was extremely aware of his rapt attention as she continued to try on the remaining items, her nipples seeming to harden a bit more each time she changed into the next piece. She was grateful that she’d kept her own panties on, for she would have soaked through any new ones she tried on – and wouldn’t that have been humiliating when it came time to check out.
She was down to the third to the last item – a sheer, lacy black chemise with attached garters that ended at the top of her thighs. It was Jenna Leigh and came with a matching black thong that she chose to leave on the hanger. But Ian had other ideas and held the insubstantial piece of silk and lace out to her insistently, his hazel eyes blazing.
“We want to be sure and get the full effect, love. Let’s see how it looks with this.” His voice was raw and barely audible.
She took the tiny garment from him uncertainly. “Um, but there’s a problem, you see. I’m, uh, well – sort of - ”
“Wet?” At her nod, he smiled in the most carnal manner she’d ever seen. “Ah, well, that could get a bit embarrassing, I suppose. I’ll tell you what – since this flimsy little bit of nothing isn’t really going to cover anything up anyway, just take off your panties. I’ll be able to visualize the whole picture quite nicely.”
It was beyond ridiculous for her to start feeling shy at this point – given that he’d been avidly watching her in various stages of undress for more than two hours – but Tessa felt her whole body heat up as she slowly peeled her very damp panties off. Ian made a twirling motion with his index finger, and she turned around slowly in a full circle.
When she faced him again, her pulse was racing madly, her breasts swollen and tight, and little rivulets of moisture were beginning to trickle down her inner thighs. “Do you, ah, like it?” she asked, pulling the very short hem of the chemise an inch or so lower.
Ian’s gaze shifted reluctantly from her near-naked body to the crotch of his trousers, where an extremely impressive erection was tenting the fabric. “Does that answer your question?” he rasped. “I – ah, think perhaps the fashion show should wrap up now, love.”
But Tessa’s eyes were fixated on the sight of his massive erection, unable to tear her gaze away. She licked her lips as she sank to her knees in front of him, his widespread legs on either side of her frame.
“You poor thing,” she murmured in a decidedly seductive voice that sounded foreign to her. “Ooh, we really must do something to take care of you. After all, it’s not like you can just walk out of here in this condition.”
“Tessa -,” he began to admonish sternly. But then his head fell back against the wall with a low gasp as her hand tentatively stroked his throbbing cock.
“Let me,” she whispered, reaching for his zipper. “Let me take care of you, Ian.”
“Oh, Christ,” groaned Ian as she drew out the thick, hard length of his penis, the tip already oozing thick droplets of pre-cum.
“Mmm,” purred Tessa as she licked the pearly beads off his cock, just before taking him fully into her mouth.
“God. Fuck,” he snarled as she sucked him eagerly, his hips moving in an instinctive rhythm with her mouth.
She lifted her head, his cock slipping from between her lips while her hand continued to stroke him with the long, smooth motions she knew he liked. “Shh,” she warned him mischievously. “If Marlene or one of the others hear you come, you’ll never be able to look them in the face again.”
Ian growled as she teased him with the very same words he’d cautioned her with yesterday. “Come up here, then,” he commanded. “If you’re determined to take care of me, let it be mutual. Another rule I’m apparently breaking for you – shagging in a public place.”
She giggled as she straddled his lap, positioning the tip of his cock at the entrance to her drenched core. “And here I thought you were the one corrupting me,” she joked.
“Wanton little minx,” he growled, squeezing the firm cheeks of her ass as she carefully lowered herself onto his erection. “You’re going to get us kicked out of this store.”
Tessa bit down on the inside of her cheek to stifle the moan she would have otherwise emitted as his cock filled her completely. As she began to ride him, she bent down and whispered in his ear, “No way would they kick you out after all the money you’ve spent. Besides, the door is locked.”
He groaned against her neck before pressing hot, fevered kisses along her throat, collarbone, the upper curves of her breast. Almost frantically, he jerked the strap of the sheer, lacy chemise off her shoulder, exposing one round, lush breast. As his mouth closed roughly over the nipple, muffling the moans rising up from his throat, she buried her face against the top of his dark head in an effort to silence her own sounds of passion.
She was close, oh so close, and could tell by the ferocity of his movements beneath her that he was, too, when a discreet knock sounded on the dressing room door. Tessa froze, but Ian evidently didn’t hear anything since he continued to piston his hips at a frantic pace. Then came the carefully modulated sound of Marlene’s voice.
“How are things coming along in there?” she asked. “Getting close to finishing up?”
Tessa had to shove a fist into her mouth to keep from laughing at Marlene’s very unintentional double entendre. Ian’s mouth was still busy suckling at her breast so she forced herself to reply in a rather high, thin voice, “Um, yes, thanks. Nearly done now.”
There was a long pause, during which Ian remained blissfully unaware of what was going on and continued to ram his cock inside of her, bringing her ever closer to climax. Finally, Marlene murmured, “Well, just let me know if you need anything” at the precise moment Tessa’s orgasm ripped through her. Ian followed her moments later, his mouth clamping so fiercely on her breast as he did that she grimaced in pain.
He was panting like he’d just run the 400-yard dash, his hair mussed and a little damp as he stared up at her in a daze. “I swear to Christ you’re going to kill me,” he wheezed. “And in a public place to boot. You make me forget everything else when I’m inside you, Tessa.”
She smiled, tenderly brushing his hair back into place. “So much that you didn’t hear Marlene asking if we needed anything.”
He looked shocked, and then his cheeks grew red, something Tessa guessed happened to him very rarely. “Uh, do you think she - ”
“Heard us? I don’t think so, especially since your mouth was – um, otherwise occupied.”
He glanced down at her still-exposed breast and frowned when he noticed the mark around her areola. “Did I do that? Does it hurt?”
“No, it’s fine. I’m just so fair skinned that I tend to bruise easily.”
Ian reluctantly pulled the strap of the chemise back up, covering her breast. “You’d better get dressed, love. Never mind about trying on the other things, we’ll just take them. I’m not sure I’d survive watching you for even one more minute.”
She gave a little wiggle, feeling his semi-hard cock still buried inside of her. “Hmm, feel like putting that theory to the test?”
He pinched her bare buttock – hard. “Not here, no. Besides, I think I’ll need some reinforcement before I’m ready to go again – an extra-large protein shake, a couple of handfuls of vitamins, the biggest, rarest steak the restaurant has available. And that nap I mentioned to you earlier – I’ll definitely need that whether you do or not.”
Tessa ran a finger over his firm mouth. “You seem to be going to an awful lot of trouble for me.”
He nuzzled his face into her cleavage. “Trust me, darling. It’s the best sort of trouble.”