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PARTNERS IN PASSION

An Elloras Cave publication written by S.L. CARPENTER & SAHARA KELLY MS Reader (LIT) ISBN # 1-84360-635-6 Other available formats (no ISBNs are assigned): Adobe (PDF), Rocketbook (RB), Mobipocket (PRC) & HTML Copyright S.L. CARPENTER & SAHARA KELLY, 2003. All Rights Reserved, Ellora's Cave. Ellora's Cave Publishing, Inc. USA Ellora's Cave Ltd, UK This e-book may not be reproduced in whole or in part by email forwarding, copying, fax, or any other mode of communication without author/publisher permission. Edited by KARI BERTON Cover Art by SCOTT CARPENTER

Certain images contained within this e-book have been digitally marked by Digimarc Corp. If you purchased this e-book from a source other than Ellora's Cave or one of its known affiliates, contact legal@ellorascave.com immediately. Please note that reading this e-book without first purchasing it through legitimate means is illegal and can result in heavy fines. As always, our authors thank-you for your support and patronage. Warning: The following material contains strong sexual content meant for mature readers. PARTNERS IN PASSION has been rated BORDERLINE NC-17, erotic, by three individual reviewers. We strongly suggest storing this electronic file in a place where young readers not meant to view this ebook are unlikely to happen upon it. That said, enjoy

Sahara Kelly & S.L. Carpenter

Chapter 1
The howl of a lonely wolf shattered the stillness of the cold night, and turned Jessicas blood to ice. She pulled her worn cloak even closer around her ears and glanced behind her at the darkness of the forest. It seemed that every shadow had grown larger, and every little rustle had turned into a footstep. She shivered. Eleanor Preston didnt. She tossed the paperback down onto her coffee table, wondering once again why the sight of a tall, dark and handsome man with huge fangs hovering over a helpless female should attract such enormous numbers of dedicated and loyal readers. Glancing at the clock, Eleanor observed that it was precisely ten minutes later than it had been the last time shed looked. Twenty past eight. Still another forty minutes to go before her ride arrived. They were leaving fashionably late, because it was, apparently, an unpardonable sin to arrive anywhere early. Marsha had insisted that nobody who was anybody got anywhere before at least nine oclock. What, wondered Eleanor now, were they all doing with themselves? Primping? Reading? Talking on their eternally charged cell phones? Or were they perhaps, like Eleanor, regretting that theyd ever agreed to go out at all? She sighed and leaned back in her leather pub chair. She tidied a stray thread in the sleeve of her Anne Klein sweater and winced again at the sight of her legs encased in jeans.

Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

Eleanor was not a jeans woman. By any stretch of anyones imagination. Pantsyes. Armani pants, preferably, but only if they were on sale. Liz Claiborne was fine, and Donna Karan a close second. But jeans? Not likely. These were too new, too tight, and tootoo jeansy. Eleanor was convinced that jeans had been designed by men, for men, and were therefore totally unsuitable for women. Especially women who possessed a well endowed ass. Rather like hers. It was only to humor the girls at work that Eleanor had consented to spend a lunch hour trying on these darn things. Theyd been labeled stretch, but they didnt do nearly enough of that for Eleanors liking. Snug and clingy, they delineated every curve and hollow, and Eleanor felt that she had a damn sight too many curves and nowhere near enough hollows. She compensated with her newest emerald green cashmere sweater, which fell softly around her modest bust line and landed just shy of her totally useless pockets. She sighed again and admitted the painful truth. She might do lunches with them, shop with them, and even spend an evening with them, but Eleanor was not really one of the girls. She was an artist by nature and a graphic artist by profession, and was not modest in admitting she was good at both. Sure, shed majored in business administration, but her minor had been graphic arts and that was where shed found her heart. Her office was one of the few that had a full window, a table with a large sketchpad, and the very latest in graphic rendering software on her computer. She spent her days happily lost in a world of morphs and vectors, and her nights wishing she had more time left to work on the million and one paintings that were waiting to be hung in the gallery of her mind.

Sahara Kelly & S.L. Carpenter

So what, she asked herself for the thirty-seventh time, was she doing wasting her valuable down time on an evening out with the girls? Theyd nagged and teased and dared, and tried every trick in the book to get her to come out for a drink with them. She knew why. They wanted to fix her up with someone dreadful, so that she could be as miserable as the rest of them and spend her coffee breaks maligning a good portion of the male species. Hah. She didnt need fixing up. She knew that men found her intimidating, unattractive, completely asexual, and about as interesting as last weeks newspaper. Her dates had been sporadic, mostly unsuccessful, and shed eventually stopped worrying about it as her professional career soared to new heights. Occasionally she missed the touch of another hand, but shed found a marvelous toy site on line and now had regular catalogs from DontBeShy.com. Her newest purple vibrator was far more reliable than any of her previous dates, and also could be turned off when no longer needed. Quite an advantage to a busy career woman. The phone rang and jolted her out of her tranquility. Elly? You there? She winced. She hated being called Elly. Yes, its me. Marsha? Yep. Look, Im having some car trouble. Can I meet you at the club? You know where it is, right? Just park in the lot next door, and Ill see you there at nine. Im so sorry, but Harrys coming by with a jumper cable to get me started. Oh. Well, perhaps we should call it off, Marsha No, no. I promised you a night out, kiddo. The others will be there too. Well have a knock out night, Elly, you can bet your ass. A laugh followed this statement. It didnt come from Eleanor.

Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

Anyway, Ill see you there, right? Right, Elly? Well, yes, I suppose Cool. If youre not there, Im gonna come get you. So slide into those jeans and waltz that fine body of yours over there. See ya. A dial tone buzzed from the phone as Eleanor stared at it. Fine body? Marsha must need new glasses. She replaced the phone on its cradle and wandered to her hall mirror. A tall, red-haired woman stared back at her, wearing a very nice green cashmere sweater. She didnt think that fine body came into the picture at all. Fine body conjured images of curves and dips, of a small waist and a generous set of breasts that would lure helpless men to their doom. Hers wereadequate. A truly fine body would have legs that went on through several degrees of longitude. Hers just went up to her hips and then stopped. At her very well endowed backside. Eleanor sighed. There was no getting away from it, because it followed her everywhere. She could hide it in well-tailored pants and jackets that fell just right. But in jeans, it was pretty evident. She possessed one hellaciously rounded butt. A butt that made her jeans look like theyd been painted on. A butt that meant the silly little back pockets were useless for containment purposes, but useful if anyone cared to know the exact location of each cheek. She gritted her teeth. With any luck it would be dark in the club and the patrons would all have serious vision problems. And she could wear her really long coat.

Sahara Kelly & S.L. Carpenter

Then she remembered that it would probably be a smoking club and she wasnt about to risk her favorite camel hair jacket becoming contaminated. It was bad enough when the smoke smell got into ones hair. She swept a quick glance at her own hair. Neat as always. Nothing would make her change her customary style. The bright red tresses had been pulled back tightly and knotted into a sophisticated twist at the back of her neck. It was tidy, convenient, didnt get in the way, and certainly never hinted at the fact that when the pins came out it brushed the top of her buttocks. No one ever saw Eleanors hair loose. Or hadnt sincesince a long time ago. One of these days she was going to lop it all off, but something held her back, and she had come to terms with it. Only at night, just before bedtime, would she release the shining stuff and let it tumble down over her shoulders, brushing it sternly and sometimes braiding it to keep it tidy overnight. She had a feeling the girls would nag her tonight, but that was their problem, not hers. This was the way she wore it. End of conversation. Nervously she glanced again at her watch. It was past eight-thirty nowshe could probably head out and meet Marsha in the parking lot. Grabbing her purse, Eleanor reached in for her lipstick, swiped a quick layer on her mouth and winced. Her makeup consisted of that one swipe and a quick dab of mascara. Not exactly cover girl stuff. So what? She asked herself. Not like Im a cover girl. Before her nerves completely shattered, she picked up her keys and let herself out the front door. This was probably going to be an abysmally awful evening, so the sooner she got it over with, the sooner she could come home.

Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

With that rather depressing thought in mind and her teeth firmly clenched, Eleanor headed for her evenings destinationThe Mating Place.

*****
Come on baby, pushHARDER. The woman smiled with a wicked gleam in her eyes as she saw her control over Justin Collins. Justin strained to control himself as the sweat from his forehead dripped and trickled into the corners of his squinting eyes. Damn, it burns. Whew. Not sure I can hold it any longer The woman smiled and watched as the muscles rippled across Justins chest. His legs and ass strained as he pushed in and out. The woman was in total control and she knew it. He did everything she commanded and that control caused a euphoric glow through her blood simply from knowing Justins prime body was hers to command. His large muscular chest almost burst as he puffed for breath, trying to maintain control. His wasnt a bodybuilder torso, but very muscular and tight as he pushed up and down. His arms were cast from a sculpture of Adonis. Very large biceps, taut forearms that strained to hold his weight up. His abdomen was a true six-pack. It rose and tensed as he pushed. She was so hot her sweat almost pooled on her skin and she felt out of breath and light-headed. Justin was a fine specimen of male testosterone-infused flesh. And she owned his ass. Oh God, Im gonna bust! I have to No, keep it up, youre almost there, come on, come on. You vindictive bitch, youre so damn cruel! And you love it. Come on, do it for me. Come on, youre so close, just a littlethere you gopush, push, mmm.

Sahara Kelly & S.L. Carpenter

Justin finally let go and relaxed back. The loud crash of the weights echoed through the gym. Now, Justin, that wasnt so hard, she said, touching his shoulder. Euuuww, go shower. Youre all sweaty. Same time Tuesday, Nikki? Justin took the towel and wiped his forehead. He had asked for a weight trainer, but Nikki was brutal. She took pleasure in making him work out almost to the point of killing himself, then pushed him further. If she werent married hed be tempted to ask her out. He had a thing for women that tried to control him. He watched Nikki standing at the juice bar. Damn, she has a great ass. Justin had a thing for a nice ass too. After leaving his long time girlfriend a few months back, Justin hadnt been in the dating circle for some time. Being dumped for another guy was hard on him. Working long hours and not seeing the signs because he became blinded by the routine of life made it hard on his relationship. Of course, her stripping at a local nightspot without telling him didnt help. Whod have thought she would fall for the bouncer? Justin was part owner of a club, but enjoyed the entertaining parts and having-a-good-time parts a hell of a lot more than the daily grind of paperwork and bureaucratic BS. He mostly left that up to his silent partner, Dave. Dave, however, wasnt all that silent. He constantly found himself in trouble for getting caught with young women in his office. The Police Commissioners daughter being one of them. The hot shower felt good to Justins sore muscles. He let the water wash over his head and down his back, breathing in deeply, relaxing. Steam filled the stall and the heat cleared his head as, for a single moment, he felt at peace. Buzzzzrzzrrrzzrzrz. His pager rumbled on the bench outside the shower stall. Shit, cant I ever get a break?
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He grabbed a towel and dried off his dark brown hair. He let the towel hang off his bodys natural towel rack as he picked up the pager and read the number. Now what?

*****
Wheres Dave? Justin yelled at Jim, the bartender. A shrug and blank look was all Justin needed to know. Not again He walked behind the bar, took a left through the swinging doors and strode down the hall to the stockroom. He jiggled the handle. Nothing. Rustling through his keys he found the stockroom key, unlocked the door and opened it. He and a few guys at the bar in front of the swinging doors, got a full view of a mans ass. There was a shapely pair of legs wrapped around the hairy ass, and the couple was oblivious to the people watching. Uh, Dave? Startled, the guy turned his head and the woman jumped back and tried her best to cover herself. Hey, Justin, whats up? Your wife was looking for you. She called me at the gym and told me she was coming over here to find you. Looking down, Justin raised an eyebrow. Uh, Dave? You might want to pull your pants up. Your condom is dangling rather grossly. Justin closed the door, shaking his head as he grabbed a seat at the bar. Hey, give me a drink. Make it a Bacardi and Coke. Sipping the drink, Justin closed his eyes and let his mind relax. The crowd started to swell and he knew it would be a loud, long night. Just this once hed like to have a great time and meet a nice woman.

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Chapter 2
The noise hit Eleanor in the face like a wet towel as she pushed open the smoked glass door to the bar. It was a heaving, frothing, living thing, crawling into her ears and shrieking at the brain cells it found as it moved past her delicate aural membranes and kicked them out of its way. She winced and squinted her eyes against the pain. Blended with the eight million voices she swore were all screaming at each other at the same time was the steady thump of drums, something she sensed through her feet more than anything else. As her vision cleared a bit, she saw a band, valiantly trying to produce sounds that would cleave a way through the rest of the noise. They were failing dismally. All except the drummer, who with steadfast intentions was hammering out his steady beat, and fortunately, possessed the biggest amplifier in the state. The waves of rhythm were being transferred into the floor of the club, and Eleanor figured that the few people dancing were probably doing it by feel rather than by any other sense of what kind of song was being played. One portion of her mind evaluated the possibility of writing about this moment in an email and sending it to her brother, who taught physics. The idea of getting a group of kids to understand the concept of sound waves by using an amplifier and a vibrating floor was one that had merit. The rest of Eleanors mind was screaming at her to get the hell out of here and go home. That this was no place for her, and that any minute the natives would become restless, and seize her as an offering to the god of whatever was on tap. Of course, the fact that she wasnt a virgin might deter them.
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Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

She tried to make her way unobtrusively to the bar. She almost succeeded. An elbow whacked her solidly in the shoulder. Sorry, sweetie, said a loud voice. Thats all right, she muttered. She twisted a little, allowing the man room to move himself, his large Stetson hat, his pseudo-snakeskin boots and his beer out of her way. One small piece of hair had been knocked loose, and Eleanor tried to tuck it back behind her ear as she finally found the bar. Whatll it be, honey? The bartender gave her a cursory once over. Eleanor paused, thinking. Ill have a white crme de menthe stinger, please. The bartender looked at her. His expression remained blank. Eleanor looked back. Like I said, Princess. Whatll it be? Eleanor sighed. White wine? Obviously that was within the capabilities of the liquor supplies offered by the club, and the bartender moved off with a grunt. Turning and resting one elbow on the bar, Eleanor began to look around in the hopes that she might see Marsha, Sarah, or any other face that looked vaguely familiar. It was a futile effort. The place was mobbed.

*****
Justin sat and looked out across the bar. Everyone seemed to be having a good time. He was just relaxing when some stupid cowboy in a black Stetson trying to be Garth Brooks bumped his back. A cold chill swept across Justin as beer trickled down his back from the morons glass.

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Justin turned and glared back at the guy. Laughing like an idiot, the man turned toward Justin and his face became stone cold serious. Hey, I dont mind you having a good time but be careful and quit spilling your beer on my shirt. Understood? Justins words were clear. Gulping his drink quickly the Stetson man smiled and apologized. Sorry, I was just scoping out the chickies. You see the ass on that redhead over there? Nice ass? Justin turned and didnt see anything. Must be his vantage point. He turned back as the Stetson guy tapped his shoulder and in a bragging manner whispered, Im gonna go get her attention. Justin shook his head and sipped his drink. Hed seen his fair share of guys strike out. From a business point of view it was fine, because a sad drunk drinks more.

*****
Eleanors one glass of wine wouldnt turn her into a sad drunk. It would, however, go a long way towards turning her into an irritated customer. The noise continued unabated and there seemed to be people everywhere. She sighed. Scuse me again, honeybun, came the voice, as Mr. Large Stetson accidentally jostled Eleanor from behind. Her purse fell to the floor and emptied itself out. Eleanor resisted the urge to pinch the bridge of her nose, hard, and curse in some foreign tongue. Like the Kings English, which might well be incomprehensible to half the people here. Instead, she bent down and retrieved her belongings. Her lipstick had rolled a short distance away, and as she stretched for it, she noticed a long pair of legs hugged by a well-worn pair of jeans. Boots, also well worn, but clearly well loved, rested on the rung of the barstool.

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Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

Some impulse made her glance upward, only to encounter the face of a man, staring with great interest at her backside as she bent down to the floor. She stood up quickly, feeling the color rush to her cheeks. Darn it. She was getting pushed around, ogled, deafened, and she didnt even have a drink yet. Plus, where the hell were Marsha and the support team? Brushing at the several strands of hair that now tumbled around her ears, Eleanor sighed. Her wine had appeared next to her elbow, and with relief she took a long swallow. Hey, EllyEllyover here A shrill voice cut across the din and caught Eleanors attention. Finally. The girls had commandeered a table and were waving her over. Carefully, she grabbed her drink and her purse, and stood. Something, some urge, made her glance over her shoulder. That man was still staring at her ass.

*****
Damn, he was right Justin mumbled. That girl is, mmm mmm. Justin looked over the bar and saw the crowd getting restless for alcohol. The band Dave had hired wasnt the greatest, but they kept the floor pretty full. Seeing Jim with his arms full of empties, Justin hopped up to give him a hand pouring beer for the guys. When he stood up his foot kicked a gold compactlooking case. He picked it up, looked for a name or something on it, and then flipped the lid to see if there was one inside. He thought for a moment, then smiled and slid it in his pocket.

*****
So then I said well, dammit, Harry, at least finish the job.

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A gust of laughter followed Marshas statement and caught Eleanor by surprise. She pasted a smile across her face, but admitted privately she had no clue what the women were discussing. No, wait. Correction. They were discussing men and/or sex. Most probably both. Unwillingly, Eleanors eyes went back to the man at the bar, only to find him gone. Against her better judgment, she scanned the room and located him opening a beer and pouring it for a customer, while removing the empties from the table. So that was it. He was a waiter. And God. He was coming over to their table. Eleanor suddenly wished very hard that the ground would open up and swallow her. This was so not happening. Ladies, may I freshen your drinks? His voice was smooth, friendly, and sent icy shivers down Eleanors spine. She refused to meet his eyes. Oh, maam? She felt a touch on her shoulder. You missed this when your bag dropped on the floor. He held out a small round metal case. A pillbox. Eleanor shriveled inside. She knew what was in there. A smile played around his rather nice mouth. It was obvious hed peeked too. It had been many years since a friend had given her the pillbox as a gag gift. Shed nearly died when shed opened it and found the condoms neatly folded inside, but had been amused by the thought, and tucked it away, leaving it all but forgotten until this moment. Ohohshit.

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Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

He leaned over as he put the box in her hand. And if you ever wanna use up the supplies, just ask for Justin. The whisper was soft, near her ear, and she knew the others couldnt possibly have heard it. She was thankful for that at least, and raised her eyes to acknowledge his discretion. Big mistake. She met a pair of chocolate brown eyes that were looking at her like she was the Road Runner and he was the Coyote. Eyes that begged her to strip off her clothes and jump him. Right here. Right now. Oh God. Oh God, was she in trouble. His shoulders seemed about a mile wide and his chestEleanor was hard pressed to suppress a moan. Chests were her particular weakness, and this man had a prime example. Solid, muscular, not too bulgy, his soft T-shirt hugged the dips and valleys of his body and traced their outlines for her delectation. She wondered if shed even be able to clasp her hands around his biceps. The thought lingered that shed rather like to try. He was grinning at her, and to her horror she realized hed said something. Fortunately, the power of speech seemed to return to all the other women at the table at once, and they rolled their tongues back into their mouths and began to compete for his attention. For once, Eleanor was grateful for their chatter. It gave her a chance to try and figure out why shed just had the most astonishing physical attraction to a waiter. Was she that shallow? To get aroused by a body? Where was the sharing of ideas, the mutual discussions of common interests, like art and literature?

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All these things were supposed to precede the flood of moisture that was, even now, soaking through her 100% silk thong underwear. It was now 100% waterlogged. Just because a man had looked at her and whispered in her ear. He was chatting with Marsha now, smiling, laughing, and beckoning a young man, telling him to bring another round of drinks to their table. If you need anything, ladies, just ask for Justin, okay? His smile embraced all of them, and lingered on Eleanor for a second longer than necessary. She attempted a polite smile. His lips twitched again and with a slight flick of an eyebrow, he turned and left. Oooooh, mama, moaned Sarah. Ill take two of those to go. Tell me about it, said Marsha. Did you see those jeans and the way they hugged his Marsha! Eleanor sputtered out the word, determined to put a stop to this. But Elly, said Sarah. That was one hot potato. That guy was Godiva chocolate or George Clooney with a dash of Brad Pitt. Hes sex on a stick, honey. Didnt you think so? Eleanor swallowed, torn between the need to be as truthful as always, and to lie between her teeth. He did seem quite attractive. That was a compromise, and did nothing to dry out her crotch. She squirmed. Yeah. Attractive like Spike is attractive, chuckled another woman. The conversation veered into the realms of vampire TV.

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Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

Two drinks later, Eleanors ears were still ringing, but she was able to deduce that the band had slowed the rhythm down and couples had taken to the dance floor to shuffle and cuddle in time to the music. She wondered if she could possibly make her escape without the girls noticing.

*****
Justin finished wiping the bar and looked up to see that Jim now had things well in hand. Another rum and coke came sliding down the shining surface toward Justin and Jim gave him a thumbs up. Dave never helpedexcept with the ladies. As Justin sipped his drink he felt another whack on the shoulder. Yep, it was the by-now-drunken Stetson man. Well, time to move in for the kill. Tonight, that hot redhead is gonna meet her studly match. Watch and learn, BOY. Justin looked around for her studly match. Who the fuck does this guy think he is? He couldnt resist the chance to needle the man. Hey, partner, Ill bet you twenty bucks she wont even dance with you. Easy money, BOY. Watch the master. Master-bater? This guy was an asshole to assholes. Justins hands clenched around his glass. It would be a damn shame to waste that fine ass on such a jerk. And it was a really fine ass. Curved in all the right places, jeans just tight enough to show it all off, and to finish the picture, a head of red hair that made his balls burn.

*****
Unaware that her hair color was causing incendiary reactions to the genitals of the man seated at the bar, Eleanors heart sank as she saw Mr. Large Stetson bearing down on their table, full of draft beer and intent.

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Cmon, honey, I owe ya. Pretty little thing like you should be up there shaking that great booty of yours, he said. Obviously, this was the local way of being smooth and charming. Compliment a woman on her backside. Eleanor paused for a moment and wondered how on earth the human race had actually survived, never mind reproduced. I have a .38 in my bag, hissed Marsha with an evil grin. In spite of herself, Eleanor chuckled. She must have had waaaaay too much wine because for a tiny moment she contemplated using it. Then a voice cut into her thoughts. She wont need it. Sorry, buddy. This dance is mine. Eleanor didnt need to turn around to know who was standing behind her chair and resting his hand on her shoulder. The heat from his palm was burning through her sweater onto her flesh, and the clang of the jaws of Fate trapping her was ringing in her ears. She was caught, fair and square. She was going to have to dance with Justin.

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Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

Chapter 3
Justin took Eleanors hand and led her to the dance floor. There was an upbeat Garth Brooks song playing and although he wasnt the smoothest dancer he could fake it pretty good. He sensed Eleanor watching him as they walked. Either that or she had a thing for looking at shoes. As Justin held her hand up she twirled under it like a ballerina. Uh oh, this girl really knows how to dance. Please have a slow song play. In answer to his wishes, the band took a break and the house music kicked in. The Woman In Me by Shania Twain slowly pulsed through the speakers and the floor filled with couples, squashed together tight enough to give a sardine an anxiety attack. Justin looked down at Eleanor and saw she was a little timid, looking around and moving back and away from him at first, keeping an eye on her friends in the crowd. Without hesitation he grabbed her hips and pulled her close. To his pleasure, she grabbed his waist and slipped her hands around his body.

*****
God, what am I thinking? Eleanor didnt know him, hadnt been formally introduced, had no idea what his last name was, if he had a house, a car, a rap sheet or what! All she knew was that she had to touch him. Hed saved her from the horror of dancing with a drunken jerk wearing a big hat. Hed surrounded her with his warmth and his arms and she just wanted to hold on to him for a few millennia.

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She blessed the music fairy that had spared her a boot scootin boogie and plunged her into this dark romantic swaying warmth, where Shanias words pulled the emotions from her gut and sang them over the loudspeakers. The man in my arms crooned Shania. Eleanor allowed herself a moment to appreciate the man in her arms. Her head would just about reach his collarbone. She tried to calculate his height based on hers, plus the addition of heeled boots, and so on. She failed dismally. He just felt too good and that feeling was swamping any rational thought processes. She breathed in, noticing his scent. Male, warm, muskya hint of some cologne or other. She couldnt place it but knew she liked it. She spared a moment to wonder if he liked her perfume. If he liked dancing with her or was just doing it because he was a gentleman. In fact, why was he dancing with her in the first place? Oh God. It was a pity dance. Had to be. Otherwise there wasnt a hope in hell that the best looking guy in the room would have tugged her into his arms and even now be snuggling her up to a very nice bulge in his jeans. A bulge that was growing. Ohmigod. He washe was getting hard. Just for her. So, whats your name? You know mine, Justin asked. She looked up into eyes that stared through hers, as if he could see into her soul. His intensity made her melt and the liquid pooled between her legs. Uh, my name is, uh ElEleanor, everyone calls me Elly though. No, that was wrong. Shed gotten her names backwards. Hell. Her mouth was dry, her crotch was wet and she was a screaming mess who couldnt even remember what she liked people to call her.

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Partners in Passion 1: Justin and Eleanor

Mmm, okay, Eleanor, you out with the girls tonight? Theyre over there waving right now. Really? Are they? How nice. Its my first time here actually. She was chattering. Birds in a cage twittered less. But she couldnt stop. Im not really into the club scene. I saw you serving drinks behind the bar. You like working here? Okay. Thats better. Ask him about himself. Get him to talk. Stop babbling. Its okay, you meet a lot of people in this line of work. What about you? Uh oh. Personal questions. The kind she hated. Deciding that any answer would spoil the moment, she simply listened to the music. I love this song. Its so romantic.

*****
Damn, this woman feels good. She smells great, too. Umm, why am I worried she'll notice my hard-on? Baseball, think baseballscoring, first base, home run, sliding home, this isnt working. Justin pulled her close and held her tightly. He breathed in the perfumed fragrance of her hair as it shimmered in the lights. It was pulled up tight, but he could tell it would be long. She was perfect in stature and fit against him, and he noticed how she nuzzled into his chest. Her eyes were closed and she was smiling as she sang along with the song. The woman in meneeds the manin you. Justin liked how this woman felt against him. She was smaller then his last girlfriend. Her head came just to the right place on him, along with most of her other parts. Parts hed like to get to know a lot better. Hey, Eleanor? Can I ask you a question? What? Sorry, go ahead. Whats your question?

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Eleanor stepped back a little and looked up at Justin. Her hand slid down his back to his waist. It hung on his belt and she lowered her eyes. There was no doubt that she could see an outline in his tight jeans and she raised an eyebrow. That eyebrow was clearly saying, WOW! Sorry, its been a while since I had a slow dance and been this close to a pretty woman. Dont apologize for this Eleanor blushed as she realized what shed said. Its a stupid line but I wanted to know if youd like to go out sometime? A date? I cant stay out here long because I have to help Jim behind the bar. Id love to see you again.

*****
The door to Eleanors apartment swung shut behind her and she leaned against it, closing her eyes and reliving that wonderful, fabulous moment and those magic words. Id love to see you again. Her skin shivered. Did he mean it? She sighed. Pulling away from the door, she tossed her keys on the table, let her purse drop down next to them, and draped her coat over a chair. She knew she should put all these things in their correct places, but somehow it didnt seem important. Not right at this moment, anyway. Shed been in a daze since JustinGod, what a fabulous namesince Justin had dropped those words onto her unsuspecting brain. Could he have had any idea what hearing that would do to her? How long it had been since someone had actually hinted that theyd like to spend some time with her? And a man, to boot. A real, hunky, adorable, take-me-to-bed-with-you-eyes kind of man.

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She moved into her scrupulously neat kitchen and reached automatically for her chamomile tea, but her hand froze over the canister. Somehow, chamomile just wouldnt do it. Not tonight. Smiling a little, she pulled out one of her pair of cherished Waterford brandy snifters and a small bottle of a rather nice brandy she saved for special occasions. Pouring a healthy splash, she knew that this certainly qualified as a special occasion. Shed met a guy. Her heart thumped as she remembered how flustered shed been. IIuh, sure. If you want. I mean, yes, Id like that Oh hell. Shed sounded like a confused dimwit. What on earth must he have thought? That she was an idiot? That she was foreign and didnt speak the language? That she was hot for his body? She had been hanging on to his belt, spellbound by that wonderful swelling beneath his fly. Good Lord, she was getting wet again just remembering it. She wondered what it would look like, feel like, maybe even taste like. His body had been a work of art, so there was no reason to think his cock would be any different. Her fingers flexed as if they still felt the firm ridges and dips of his body beneath them. The heat that hed given off had warmed her through and through. She idly glanced at her hands to see if there were marks there. It seemed quite possible that just touching him had branded her. It was the strangest feeling to have this kind of reaction to a man. Certainly it was different. It had never happened to her before. And this one had no idea who she was. No agendas, nothing to make him want to single her out for attention. Just some kind of need to be a Good Samaritan. To save the plain, uptight woman from the overbearing jerk.

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To take her out onto the dance floor for a quick spin, not realizing that the music would slow into a romantic slow swaying, and that shed plaster herself against his body, stutter incomprehensibly when he spoke to her and spend most of her time eyeing his growing erection. Of course, they had fit together rather nicely. Especially when hed pulled her close. His thighs brushed hers, and his hips were in just the right place Once again she shivered. Enough, already. He probably wouldnt call anyway. Especially since the girls had decided it was time to leave right at the wrong moment. Figures. She finally got a beefcake in her arms and it was time to leave. The story of her life. Eleanor snorted as she took her brandy into the bedroom and turned on the small bedside lamp. And, God help her, shed given him her business card. Her business card. Like he was some kind of professional associate. Sure, shed scrawled her home number on the back, but still She should have done something hot, like ripped his shirt open and used her tongue to write her phone number on his chest. She closed her eyes and mentally flogged herself for her stupidity. Well, it was too late now. She reached for her brandy and sipped some more, enjoying the fiery burn that went down into her stomach. Time to call it quits. It had been a much better night than shed expected, shed been held against one of the most perfect chests shed seen in a while, and had the chance to dream a few dreams. She had no right to ask for more. She should be happy with what she had. Memories.

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She slipped off her sweater and struggled out of her jeans, catching a glimpse of herself in the shadowy mirror. She paused. In the semi-darkness, she looked at herself. Really looked at herself. Well-shaped legs led to her curvaceous backside, but that was topped by a slim waist and a relatively decent pair of breasts. She slipped her hand behind her back and unclipped her bra, letting it drop to the floor. Feeling her head swim a little from the brandy, she stared at her nipples, fascinated by the way they were beading in the cool air. Tentatively, she raised a hand, pausing for a moment, and then stroking herself slowly from the indentation of her hip, up past her waist to the soft swell of her breast. A rush of heat to her pussy answered her touch, and she was surprised to catch herself in a slight moan as her hand moved on and found the tightly furled nipple, now begging for attention. Would he like her like this? For a moment, she imagined Justins touch. She closed her eyes briefly and used both hands, pulling, teasing, and feeling her heartbeat increase as her breathing became louder in the silence. When the nights get too long, and I just cant go on The lyrics to the song theyd danced to flashed back into her mind. This certainly was one of those nights. She opened her eyes and looked again at the woman in the mirror. She was aroused now, no question about it. Nipples peaked, skin slightly flushed, feet spread and hips tilted forward.

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Eleanor bit her lip, thought for a moment, then turned to her brandy and finished off the glass. She flicked a switch on her small CD player and opened the drawer to the bedside table. As the CD began to play and the soft sounds flooded the room, Eleanor crossed to her mirror and knelt on the floor in front of it with the determined look of a woman on a mission. Tonight she was going to learn about herself. She was going to be decadent, wanton, erotic, and free. She was going to be woman. If she couldnt have Justin, shed have the next best thing. A fantasy.

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Chapter 4
First to go were the hairpins. Tossed casually onto the floor under her vanity table. Eleanor knelt, knees wide apart, and shook her hair, loving the feel of it as the rich red stuff tumbled down her back to brush the top of her buttocks. She lifted her arms and ran her fingers through it, watching her breasts as they rose with her movements. She scrunched a handful of hair up high, and gave her best cover girl pout, letting her breasts thrust forward as she did so. Not bad. Maybe not Miss October quality, but not bad, just the same. A lock fell forward as she released her grip, brushing over her nipple and circling it like a strand of red seaweed on a mermaids body. She tugged on the curl, letting the taut hairs catch on her nippleback and forth and back again, teasing it, and arousing it even more. Without realizing it, she licked her lips, and was surprised to see a sheen on her mouth as she studied her reflection. Her body was beginning to throb, the needy urges starting low in her belly. She drew in a breath, tossed her hair back over her shoulders and slid her hands down to the thin strips of silk that banded her waist. Tucking her fingers beneath them she slid her thong down to the carpet. Bravely, she stared at the now nude woman in the mirror. It was almost like looking at a stranger. Eleanor couldnt ever remember her breasts looking swollen or flushed. But this womans breasts were thrusting forward, silently demanding the touch of anothers hand or mouth.

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She certainly couldnt remember her mound gleaming or her thighs sparkling with dewy honey the way this womans did. This woman, with her shaved pussy, had flesh that was dark pink and swollen, and juices that were leaking from the shining folds between her legs. Shifting, Eleanor tugged the thong away, dropped it, and forgot about it. She sat back on her heels, and watched as her thighs spread wide apart, opening her secrets to this stranger with the sensual body who was staring back at her. The strangers hand slipped down to her moisture, dipping tentatively into the gleaming folds and spreading the shiny lubricant over her skin. Eleanor tossed her head back and closed her eyes, feeling the soft and sexy kiss of her own hair as it fell down her back and brushed the soles of her feet. She spread her legs even wider apart, and found her clit with one finger. This time, the moan was clear, sliding across to the mirror and ricocheting back to Eleanor. Her thighs tensed and released as her finger found the spots that sent shivers of delight throughout her body. Biting her lip, she paused. Another glance told her that the flush of her skin had traveled down to her navel. Her breasts were rising and falling with her rapid breathing, and her eyes were glazing and losing their focus. It was time for the next step. She reached for her purple, battery-operated friend. Perhaps she should give him a name. Justin. Would he feel like this? Soft, pliable, ready to enter her and learn secrets she herself didnt fully understand?

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Well, of course, the real thing would be harder, but still have that silken feel. Warm velvet, someone had once said. Eleanor wondered about Justins warm velvet. She ran her vibrator across her wet flesh, smoothing and spreading her juices around and thoroughly soaking the purple shaft. She was so ready that it was the work of a moment to slip it into her waiting moisture. The handle protruded from her body, and she wriggled, managing to rest it on the soft carpet beneath her. She turned it onand let go. It stayed inside her, deep inside her, and went to work, buzzing softly as it tickled and toyed with her innermost tissues. She was now free to enjoy her body, while her vibrator worked hard at what it did best. She felt the thrum of the device against her pelvis and ground down on it, not even realizing how instinctive the move was. One hand slipped back to her clit, encouraging it to peek out from its protective hood. The other hand palmed a breast, lifting it, squeezing it, flicking the nipple and then moving to the other side to repeat as necessary. And, oh God, it was necessary. Eyes wide open, Eleanor watched herself as she masturbated in front of her full-length mirror. She saw her mouth fall open as she struggled to draw in sufficient oxygen to meet the needs of her aroused body. She saw her hands pulling her own nipples and pinching them into a state of rigid hardness. She saw her fingers pressing and rubbing and circling her clit as her muscles clenched and hugged the vibrator deep inside her.

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With that image burned into her retinas, she closed her eyes and let her mind float. It became Justin looking back at her. Justin watching her hands and her breasts. Justins fingers caressing her nipples and Justins hand teasing her clit into insanity. And above all, it would be Justins cock inside her, filling her, and helping her find her way to that wonderful place where the world ceased to exist and there was only a painfully brief explosion of release. It arrived all too soon. With a loud gasp, Eleanor came. Her muscles spasmed down onto the vibrator, which ignored her and continued to buzz. Her hand squeezed her breast, then dropped and reached out as she toppled forward toward the mirror. Sobbing with pleasure, she rode out her orgasm, whimpering slightly as the vibrator finally slid from her body. On all fours, she panted, hair falling every which way, sweat dripping from her nose, and thighs soaked and sticky. The vibrator buzzed sadly, as if it knew its job was done. Eleanor felt like buzzing the same way. Shed done what she set out to do. Shed learned that she could let go, watch as she pleasured herself. That she probably wouldnt go to hell for it. Actually, shed rather enjoyed it in a wanton sort of way. It wasnt the kind of thing shed write down in her diary even if she kept one, but it was certainly a step toward accepting herself as a sexual person. And she really did have Justin to thank for it.

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She stood up slowly and sighed. The vibrator had to be washed and put away, her thong tossed in the hamper and she had to wash her face and brush her teeth. Rather mundane jobs for a budding sex goddess. She snorted to herself. Yeah right. Tomorrow it would be back to the same old Eleanor. All work, all the time, with the occasional polite orgasm under the covers of her bed. The budding sex goddess thing was strictly fantasy. She was no more a sex goddess thanthanwell, than anyone she could presently think of. Tired, she slid into bed, wondering if by any remote chance, Justin might be thinking of her. She punched her pillow, angry at herself for being an idiot. Of course he wasnt. Someone like him would probably have at least four women lined up for the evening when he got off his shift. Hed probably take one of them home. Shoot. Maybe even two of them. Eleanors brow wrinkled on her pillow as she tried to imagine the mechanics involved. But all she achieved was to get herself angry again at wanting to be one of the two women he was with. She cursed at herself and rolled over, fussing with the blankets until they were just right. The CD had finished playing, her lights were turning off as their timers clicked over, and she felt her body relaxing. Finally. Then the phone rang. Hello? Is this Eleanor? Speaking. It couldnt be. Hi, its Justin.

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It was. Eleanors heart missed a couple of beats then went into overdrive. Umhi. Oh great. Start with the idiot chatter again. Lets completely turn the guy off. This is a surprise Just wanted to, you know, make sure you got home okay He sounded kind of cute. And what a nice thought. Well, thanks. Thats nice of you. Yeah, I made it home fine. So, you think we could get together soon? Ohgodohgodohgod. Eleanors brain repeated the mantra while she tried to get her mouth to form intelligible words. That would be fun. Fun? Shit. Now she was sounding like she was twelve. I meanId like that. Yes. Great. How about dinner? I already ate. Eleanor closed her eyes and wished for death. That had to be the final blow. A low laugh came over the phone lines. Yeah, me too. But Ill probably get hungry again soon. Especially Saturday night. By then Ill be starving. Eleanor sighed. Im sorry. Im not usually such an idiot. You caught me by surprise. Oh. His voice changed, cooling slightly. Did I disturb anything? Well. Now that was interesting. A slick woman would have a ready quip about the orgy shed been refereeing. But Eleanor realized she just wasnt slick enough to carry it off. No, not at all. Im just about to fall asleep over a good book. Her vibrator sat prominently on the bedside table, drying off. She could have sworn it frowned at her. She mentally told it to shut up and mind its own business. Oh. Okay. Well, look, I wont keep you from that book. How about if I pick you up around seven on Saturday?

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Sure. Seven would be fine. Actually, any time would be fine. Like fifteen minutes ago would have been even better. Then its a date. Ill see you then. Yeah, great. Okay. Til Saturday, then. Night. Goodnight. Eleanor slowly hung up the phone, turned back to her bed, put her face into the pillow, and screamed.

*****
Justin set the phone down as he leaned across the bar. He felt a firm hand press on his ass and a full pair of breasts nuzzle into his back. Confused, he stood motionless. You see this fine ass here, girls? This ass is mine. I helped make this hard and firm. DAMN, I love my job. Justin turned around and saw a devilish smile spread across the face of the woman staring at his jeans. Hello, Nikki. What are you doing here? Oh, me and the girls went out. Frank and his buddies are watching the hockey game so we left. I always wanted to come see your club. Hey, Jim, these are on me, okay? he yelled to the bartender as he pointed to Nikki and her two girlfriends. Nikki, you said he was cutebut damn. "Justin? These are my friends, Cindy and Kimbra. Don't call her Kimmy, she hates it . . .right Kimmy?" Nikki winked at her friend and smiled. Cindy, the slender blonde, stared at his crotch and licked the corner of her mouth. Yummy.

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Kimbra, the big-breasted brunette, raised an eyebrow and fanned herself. Mmm, is it hot in here, or what? You girls have fun, the drinks are free for you tonight. Justin grinned and winked at Nikki. Nikki, you got a minute? Justin motioned to her to come closer to the bar. Sorry, girls, I know what he wants She giggled and with a few guys staring at her, walked over to stand next to Justin by the bar. Justin rubbed the moisture on his glass. I met this girl, Nik. Shes really, ummhot. I havent been out there for a while. I dont know if I should have, but I called her and asked her out. Even though she was just here tonight. Should I have waited? Sipping her drink she thought for a second. Im not sure, let me ask the girls. Nikki turned towards the room. Hey, girls, if you just met Justin tonight how long should he wait to call you and ask you out? Embarrassed, Justin turned a deep red and waited for the response. He can call me anytime. Like fifteen minutes would be too long. Justin had no clue who called out that answer. The blonde girl still stared at his crotch mumbling, I know after I leave here Im gonna go home and get my vibrator outdid I just say that out loud? The girls burst into laughter at Cindys outrageous comment. Justin sat down with them and they talked for a little while. To his relief, they all agreed he did the right thing. Well, Id better get back to work. You girls were great. Remember, drive safe and have some fun. When Justin went to get up, Cindy leaned over to whisper into his ear. His eyes opened wide as Cindy slid her hand along his inseam, brushing the tip of his dick. If youre worried about moving too fast, Ill be home, naked and in bed

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thinking of you. She opened his chest pocket and put her number into it, then patted it shut. Nikki looked at Kimbra and looked back to Cindy. What was that all about? That guy is a walking wet dream. I may be blonde but I aint stupid. Id love to get that bull in the ring and ride him for the full eight hours. Cindy drooled and the girls all teased her for acting like such a slut, although not one actually disagreed with her.

*****
Justin took a strand of Eleanors long red hair and pulled back on it. She moaned loudly as he buried his hardened cock deep into her from behind. The headboard hammered against the wall making a steady thud, thud, thud. He grabbed her hips and leaned back, trying to get deeper within her glorious, tight pussy. He wanted to fill her to the womb. Her ass would wrinkle as he pushed harder and his abdomen pressed against it. OH GOD, JUSTIN, Im coming, Im coming, ooooooohhhhhhhhhhhh. The inner walls of her pussy milked his long, stiff shaft as it sank into her over and over. Justin felt empowered and the urge to let go swept through his body to his loins. He breathed deep, his face tight and red from pressure, and he exploded. Jerking up in his bed, Justin awoke and felt the throbbing ooze spew from his penis. Sitting up, he put his head in his hands and started laughing. WOW, havent had a wet dream in a long time. Ewwww, what a sticky mess.

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Chapter 5
The week couldnt go by quickly enough for Justin. Weekdays were usually slow for the club and it seemed forever until Saturday finally arrived. He had reservations at his favorite Italian restaurant and he stood feeling jittery, staring into the mirror in his apartment. Damn, its just a date. Its not like shes going to take me home and seduce me with those big green eyes, or those perky breasts, those fine legs, that long flowing red hair and that ass. Damn that ass...umm, where was I? Why am I talking to myself? Why am I whispering? There, this looks cool. Justin brushed his white shirt flat. The top button was taut, thanks to his wide chest. He unbuttoned the top button and a small amount of chest hair poked out. His tank-top undershirt was already getting moist with nervous perspiration. His Dockers were ironed and clean and hugged his large, muscular legs. He splashed some Gray Flannel cologne onto his palms and ran his hand around his neck, spreading the scent over his skin. He dabbed a little on his fingers and tapped the cologne under his belt, just in case. Hey, Eleanor, whazz up? No. That sounded fucking lame. Hello, my magnificent rose. Id like to spread your petals and suck on your sweet nectar. STRIKE TWO! Hello, El, you look wonderful. It is niceno, greatthat we can go out properly and get to know each other. Hmm, not bad. Sounds sincere. Thatll work. Now where the hell are my keys? Justin hurried out the door, not wanting to be late.

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*****
Eleanor stood in front of her closet and did what women have done since the beginning of time. She wondered what to wear. If scientists had put as much time into studying the mysteries of the universe as women did trying to pick out clothes, the galaxy would be a simple and wellunderstood place to live. She could go for the elegant look of her black silk dressno, that would be overdoing it. And pants were definitely out. She never forgot her overly-well-endowed rear end. So that left a skirt and blouse, orshe reached around her Carole Little twopiece and found the dress shed bought last year and never worn. It had been wrong for the office, too much for grocery shopping, and Eleanor wryly realized that she hadnt gone anywhere else to wear it. She pulled it out and held it up against herself. It was made of the softest silky cotton, wrapping to the side and fastening with two hooks at the waist. The top was white, with tiny green leaves printed on it, the sleeves short and floppy. The skirt was green, with little white flowers; sort of a reverse of the top, and the whole thing looked like two pieces but was actually one. It was very comfortable, long and floaty enough to be dressy if needed, and she still loved the colors. It also made her feel feminine. Something she badly needed right now if she was to handle this date with Justin with any degree of sanity. The belt was dark green with a little white flower at the buckle. Shed splurged on this dress, something she seldom did, usually restricting herself to one or two classic pieces each season.

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She knew that the neckline of this dress was lower than she usually wore, but some little voice was whispering naughty things in her ears. Things like men like to see a womans curves and your bra has silk lace on itshow it off. Her lingerie would probably give her enough cleavage to get away with it. If the restaurant was dark and Justin turned out to be shortsighted. She sighed. Once again, she regretted that the C-cup fairy had never visited her. There was nothing like a fine set of breasts to make a woman feel like a woman. But, breast size notwithstanding, this would be her dress for this evening. Even though it had been purchased on a whim. A little peek at Eleanor-thedainty-princess instead of Eleanor the career woman. The shoes had been a whim too. Still bearing the price tag, they were strappy, spiky-heeled and open, and what Marsha would call CFM shoes. As in Come Fuck Me. Eleanor secretly loved them, and the toe cleavage that they showed off to perfection. Another point scored for confidence. And if she was sending a message by wearing them, wellso be it. As she stood in front of her mirror and pushed the last hairpin into her tight twist of hair, she tried to see herself as Justin would see her. Taller than usual thanks to the heels, shed probably reach his chin. Her skirt floated around her ankles, brushing her silky hosiery like a caress. She shivered. Her nipples hardened as she remembered Justins dark eyes and wondered how hed react to seeing her again. Her thin gold chain nestled between her breasts, and the charm it held was securely hidden. She toyed with the idea of running back upstairs and putting on more makeup, but then realized that the best thing she could do was to be herself. If that wasnt enough, thenonce again shed come home alone. Shed done it before. Too many times.
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*****
Pulling up to Eleanors house, Justin sat in his Lexus and took a few deep breaths. He wasnt a shy person, he just hadnt been out in a while, and being dumped can scar anyone and leave his confidence down. The gym was an easy way to vent, and Nikki pushed him physically. The mental games people played with themselves were the tough part. Opening his door, Justin caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror. Just be yourself, he thought. And he walked up the brick walkway to pick up Eleanor. He rang the bell, put his best nervous smile across his face and waited. Eleanor opened the door and Justin became thirteen years old again. Wow, uh, wow, hmm, you look really nice, um, ha ha, oh SHIT. Justin reached over, pushed her hand aside and closed her back into her house. He figured by now she was probably puzzled and confused. So was he. What had gotten into him? He rang the doorbell again and she answered it. Justin stood, smiling and holding a freshly picked rose from her garden. You look absolutely stunning, Eleanor. I am sorry about what happened a second agoI had a teenage flashback. Im a little nervous and you really caught me off guard. You look lovely. Accepting the rose with a blush, Eleanor smiled back. Thats a very nice recovery, Justin. Im impressed. Let me grab my purse. She stepped back into the hall and leaned over to pick up her bag. He bit his bottom lip as she bent over. Walking toward his car, Justin rushed over to open her door like a gentleman. Eleanor slid in and her firm, slender legs caught the light as she pulled them into the car. She had to know Justin was looking and yet she didnt try to hide the glimpse of skin from him.

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He closed the door, looked skyward and whispered, Please dont let me screw this up. The drive was pleasant and Justin popped in his Usher CD. The slow grooves were calming and Eleanor broke the silence to ask about Justins taste in music. So you like R&B? I like this singer but prefer Toby Keith and country. I have some other CDs there in the case if youd like to listen to something else. He reached over to grab the case and Eleanor moved her leg out of his way. Watching the road and not what he was grabbing, he accidentally pulled the CD case up between her legs, opening her skirt to her thigh. He turned to see what the case was caught on and saw her milky white skin. Her legs were toned and the inner slope of her leg flexed as he swerved the car. A flash of lace from her thigh high stockings damn near blinded him. Sorry, I need to watch what Im doing. Justin was caught looking. Eleanor pulled her skirt back down and smiled at Justins obvious admiration. She looked through the CDs and frowned a little. TOOL? Who or what is TOOL? Metal band. Damn good band. Oh. I cant honestly say that I like metal. Sounds like garbage cans banging together while a cat screams between them. Justin bit his lip. Obviously she hasnt heard TOOL. Ill have to educate her on the joys of a good TOOL.

*****
Justin pulled up to the restaurant. Stay put, he told Eleanor. She smiled brightly and peeked into the mirror, quickly checking her makeup and hair.

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Justin handed the valet a twenty-dollar bill and his keys. Take care of my baby. Ill get my other baby out of the car. The kid grinned as Justin opened the door and held his hand to Eleanor who grabbed it and stepped out. The valet stared at her and whistled as she brushed at her backside, smoothing her skirt. Her red hair shimmered in the dim light. His response was pretty much the same as Justins. She looked fuckingHOT. Justin opened the door and they went inside. The scent of pasta filled the air and Justin took a deep breath. Mmm, damn, Im hungry. He stepped up to the hostess and smiled. She looked up Justins body to his broad chest and met his eyes. Can I help you? There was a wealth of meaning in her words. Eleanor stepped up behind Justin and took his arm in hers. Her gesture was quite clear. This was her man. Yes, I made reservations earlier this week. Justin, party of two by the balcony. And he slid another twenty-dollar bill across the reservation book and under the hostess hand. Oh yes, I remember it well. She winked and grabbed two menus. Right this way please. The tall, olive-skinned woman walked across the restaurant in her tuxedo pantsuit. Her body was lean and flowed through the tables like a breeze. Justin pulled out Eleanors chair and watched her sink into it. As he helped seat her he breathed in the fragrance of her hair. Just like before, when theyd danced, he felt a sudden urge to pounce on her. Umm, Ill be right back. Justin breathed out and looked across the room for the restroom. Spotting it, he turned around and picked up Eleanors hand and kissed it softly. The French in him was taking over. As he walked away the hostess stared at his backside and turned to Eleanor. Damn, you make sure you take that meal home tonight, girl.
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Eleanor smiled. I plan on it.

*****
Justin walked into the mens room and stepped up to the urinal. He stood there grasping his partner in crime. Come on, big guy. This is important. Dont let me down. New terrain, new territory. Remain in control. Justin sighed. What? I know shes a redhead and we all have our weaknesses. But stay calm. I know, I know, I love you too. Justin didnt notice that another man had walked in, and was now listening to him talking to his friend. Big date, huh? The man spoke as he stepped up to the other urinal. Yeah, dude, and Im nervous. Shes fine, I mean shes beautiful. Hmmm, baseball, think baseball. Doesnt work. I tried it. Shes a redhead and she A redhead? Ohhhhh, theres the problem. Redheads attack your most primal weakness. Fire. The vivid hair, the pale fresh skinyep, youre a goner. The man finished up and washed his hands. I married a redhead. It was seventeen of the best years of my life. What happened? Justin inquired. Hit by a bus. Oh man, sorry to hear that. Dont be, I pushed her in front of it. That bitch was sleeping with my brother. The man whistled and strolled out the door. Justin stood there, dick in hand, knowing he was taking advice from a psycho.

*****
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Eleanor leaned back in her chair and pretended that she was as calm, cool and collected as a swan, sailing regally across a tranquil pond. Inside, she was a struggling, soggy duck, fighting to stay afloat and kicking up weeds with her webbed feet. Every move shed made seemed calculated to seduce Justin. What the hell was happening to her? Just because every one of her sex bells chimed like it was Christmas whenever he came within a yard of her shouldnt be cause for her to turn into some kind of would-be temptress. Shed let him yank up her skirt with his CD case, flashed him some thigh as she got out of the car, and damn near clambered all over him when Miss Tall and Stunning had drooled over him before seating them. If she were a swearing woman, shed be thinking something along the lines of sheeeeeiiiit right about now. Of course, he was even more gorgeous than she remembered. His eyeswell, yes. And he still had his chest too. The big, hunky, solid one. The one that she wanted to cover with most of her body. And her tongue. She stifled a sigh as she caught sight of him returning from the mens room. Did you order yet? His smile dazzled her as he sat down and suddenly the table seemed way too small. Or hed gotten bigger in the bathroom. Erno, I figured Id wait for you. She grabbed the menu. Any recommendations? Justin leaned over and turned her menu the right way up. Eleanor bit her lip and prayed for the proverbial large hole to appear in the floor. She caught him trying to hold back a laugh and gave up trying to be cool. She lowered the menu, looked at him straight in the eye and burst out laughing. Shoot. This is awful. Justin tried to keep a straight face and failed, bursting into laughter with her.

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Im such a class-A idiot when it comes to this stuff, Justin. She choked, smothering her laughter with her hand. Well, I havent exactly been Mr. Smooth either, smiled Justin. He relaxed in his chair. You said something when we were dancingabout not having been around a woman in a while. Well, I have to be very honest here. She dropped her voice and leaned forward confidentially. Justin leaned in as well. She couldnt help noticing that he glanced at her neckline. A tiny voice whispered that he was looking down her dress. She sincerely hoped so. Its been almost two years since I dated anyone. Justins jaw dropped. Youre kidding, right? Eleanor snorted. You think Id make that up? He shook his head. I dont get it. Have you been in a convent or something? Up the Amazon River? Stuck at the South Pole? She gurgled a laugh. Nope. None of the above. Ive been working. Sweetheart, nothing could keep you working that hard, he said, still shocked. Whats the matter with the men you know? They all deformed? Crippled? Crazy? Blind? Eleanor blushed. Dratted white skin betrayed her feelings every time. She cursed luridly beneath her breath and dipped her head, hoping Justin wouldnt notice. Dont blush. Youre too pretty to sit home just watching TV. I dont understand. Damn. Nothing wrong with his vision either. It was as perfect as the rest of him.

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Eleanor sighed. I got busy, Justin. I had the chance to move up in my job and I took it. It meant a commitment from me to do the work, but I love doing it. It wasnt hard. But wasnt it lonely? The question hung between them, and Eleanor was saved from answering by the arrival of their waiter. Hi, folks, Im Phillip and Ill be your server tonight. Can I get you both a drink while you look over our menu? Would you like to hear our specials for this evening? Phillip blinked as he looked at Justin. Then he blinked again and straightened himself slightly. Eleanor cleared her throat. Phillip stared at Justin. Ahem. Eleanor tried again. Her voice finally registered on Phillip. This time, it was Justin who was blushing and burying his face in his menu. Id like a glass of the house red, please. And Ill have the spaghetti with the shrimp scampi. Light on the garlic, house salad and creamy Italian dressing. My, my. Dont you love a woman who knows her own mind? Phillip jotted down her order and went back to devouring Justin with his eyes. And for you, sir. What can I get you? The word embarrassed sprang to Eleanors lips. She held her tongue. Justin closed his menu. Ill take a rum and Coke, the spaghetti with the veal, house salad and ranch dressing. Itll be my pleasurebe right back with your drinks. Good choices. Phillip brushed Justins shoulder as he leaned over for the menu. Well. Eleanors lips twitched. I think you just made a friend.

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Rolling his eyes, Justin ran his hand through his hair absently, a gesture that touched Eleanor. He was relaxing, letting a little of the awkwardness drift away, which meant she could relax too. She shifted her feet more comfortably and bumped his long legs beneath the table. Oh, Im sorry, she said, shifting away. No, dont. Move them back. Please? She tilted her head and looked at him. I like feeling your legs there. Just next to mine. Theyre warm. Itsits nice. Okay. Eleanor slid her feet back, until her calves were just brushing his. He was right. It was nice. She smiled.

*****
The food was superb, and by the time the spaghetti was placed in the center of the table, both Eleanor and Justin were beginning to feel very much at ease with each other. Theyd shared horror stories about dates. Horror stories about break ups. Theyd swapped war stories about work, and Eleanor had been surprised to learn that Justin was half-owner of the club, not a waiter. I like running the club a lot. Its nice to hang out in and the regulars are pretty cool. Dave and I could always do better during the day because its a bit slow but, well, thats business. Luckily, I met you there so it has other perks too. Justin was pleased to think shed accepted this date with him regardless of what she thought he did. It was a compliment. Another glass of wine disappeared down Eleanors throat and she tucked into her spaghetti with gusto, matched only by Justin, who was devouring his own meal with a great deal of enjoyment. He mumbled while he ate, which made Eleanor snicker.

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Good? she asked in between bites. Justin looked up at her and grinned. You bet. This is one of my favorite restaurants. Eleanor was about to take another forkful, when Justin held up his hand. Just a sec He reached across the table and brushed his finger along her lower lip. A little oil, he said, by way of explanation. He held her gaze as he brought his finger to his own lips and sucked it clean. A sudden heat stole over Eleanors body that had nothing to do with food. She dropped her eyes. The conversation became slower, more intimate. Now each mouthful they took was an invitation to double check lips for stray drops of sauce. Tongues flickered, wiping lips and leaving a sheen of moisture. Eleanor picked up her breadstick and slipped it between her lips. She caught Justins eyes watching her every move. Slowly, she pulled it back out from her mouth, just nipping the end off with a little snip of her teeth. She felt him shudder, all the way down to his toes. Two can play at this game. The thought was clear in his eyes. He broke a roll on his plate and slid a pat of butter into the hot center. Letting the butter melt a little, Justin picked up the roll and licked away the dribbles of melted butter, carefully running his tongue over the bread before popping it into his mouth. Eleanor couldnt have looked away if her life had depended on it. Why the hell didnt someone turn on the air-conditioning in this place? Suddenly, her appetite for food was gone. She pushed away the remains of her meal with a sigh. I cant take any more, she said wistfully. Im done. Finished. Just roll me out of here.

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Justin grinned. That good, huh? Oh yeah. Heaven on a plate. Would you two dears like some dessert? Coffee? The ever-attentive Phillip was back, hovering longingly at Justins elbow. Eleanor sighed. First the hostess, then the waiter, and at least three of the women customers who had passed their table on the way to the ladies room. She figured this was good practice in case she ever got a date with George Clooney. It had to be the same sort of thing. Justin raised an eyebrow at Eleanor. She shook her head. Uh uh. I couldnt. Were all set, thanks. Justin slipped his credit card onto the little clipboard, and within minutes had broken Phillips heart by leaving, taking Eleanor with him out into the cool evening air.

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Chapter 6
They both breathed in deeply, and Justin automatically slipped his arm around Eleanor as they walked through the parking lot to his car. Away from the noise and bustle of the restaurant, it was suddenly quiet between them. They reached the door and stopped, and Justin wondered if he should reach past and open it or if she would do it herself. Now or never, now or never. Justins mind was spinning and his other head was screaming at him to kiss her. It was also very awake. He reached past her. But not to open the door. He could smell her fragrance mixed with the scents from the restaurant and the cool night air. The lights in the parking lot barely reached them, and her hair was just a dark shadow framing her face. A face that was looking at him, waiting for him. She licked her lips. It was all the invitation Justin needed. Hed enjoyed their dinner, their conversation and their discovery of the sensual joys of a good meal. Hell, hed had no idea up to now that Italian food could be foreplay. He wondered for a brief moment if hed ever survive sharing a pizza with this woman. But it had aroused him as much as if shed spent the evening fondling his cock, and he needed no further encouragement. It was time to move on to the next course. Both his hands were resting on the car, one on either side of Eleanors body. He was closing the space between them, and she felt something pressing against her. It was unlikely he was carrying a flashlight there. She was imprisoned between Justin and his Lexus. For a brief moment she wished it had been a
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Chevy. She could have quipped something about being caught between a rock and a hard-on. She turned, not sure what to say. The look in his eyes turned her knees to jelly and her brains to mush. Speech was totally impossible at this point. Ive got to do this, he murmured. One hand slid from the car onto her shoulder and up to cradle her jaw. His eyes dropped and fixed on her lips. Without realizing it, she closed her own eyes and leaned forward, wanting this as much as he did. He pressed his mouth to hers, and the world stopped. Then it started again, but upside down, inside out, and with fireworks exploding inside Eleanors head. His lips were tentative at first, just brushing hers, teasing, lightly encouraging her to respond. She sucked in a breath and Justin made sure she sucked him in too. His tongue invaded her mouth and began a recon mission all its own. She tasted of Italian food and wine and woman, and so wonderful that he could have eaten her whole. Her hands slid up across his shoulders and into the hair at the base of his neck, letting him know she was more than eager for his kiss. Like he was savoring a slice of paradise, he touched the soft skin of her lips. The luscious feel of her warm mouth reminded him of other parts of her body. He envisioned his tongue slipping between other lips, lower, and sinfully needing some attention. For a second he felt lifted up and weightless. The throb in his pants brought him back to consciousness. Sensing her involvement, Justin deepened his kiss, leaning against her and sandwiching her between him and the car door.

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Their bodies pressed against each other, heat meeting heat, clothing rustling, hands learning curves and dips as they touched and touched again. Eleanor had hard metal at her back and hard man against her front. And God, was he hard. The planes of his chest were pushing against her nipples through the thin fabric of her dress, and his cock was trying to find itself a home anywhere below her waist. His hips moved against her and she moved in return, groaning a little in the back of her throat. She fought his tongue with hers, demanding he take more and her own hands were holding his head now, moving him where she wanted him. It was a kiss like none shed ever experienced, and when she finally pulled back for air, she was panting, screamingly wet, and could have willingly taken him right there. Up against a Lexus. At least it was a luxury sedan. If she was going to start with automotive sexual experiences God. What the hell was she thinking? And worse, what was he going to think of her? IIer Oh good start. Stutter like a virgin, and really impress him. Eleanor indulged herself in a few seconds of mental head slapping. Justins lips curled into a smile. Yeah. Mmm. Sheesh. She wondered if hed mind if she kissed them again. For about an hour or so. This time when his hand reached past her, it was to open the door. He brushed her hip as he pulled back, and she felt his touch all the way through her body to the one place that needed no further stimulation at the moment, thank you very much. Silently, she slipped into the seat and fastened her seat belt, praying that she wouldnt slide off into the passenger well on a river of her own juices.

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The ride was silent this timeneither wanting to disturb the new emotions between them with idle chatter or music that would fall on deaf ears. All too soon for Eleanors peace of mind they were pulling up in front of her house, and Justin killed the engine. And the headlights. Justin, I she began. She didnt get the chance to finish. He reached for her, unbuckling his seat belt with one hand and putting the other behind her neck. He pulled her to him and kissed her, hungrily, forcefully, thrusting his tongue into her heat and stealing her breath with his mouth. It felt so good to Eleanor, as if his primal hunger was overtaking his judgment and she let him devour her. Without even thinking about it, she popped her own belt free and moved to meet his touch, needing the taste of him as much as he, apparently, needed her. His hand slid over her body, learning, stroking, smoothing the soft cotton of her dress and discovering the woman beneath. The hand around her neck slipped to her shoulder and beneath the fabric, finding her bra strap and playing with it. He traced the silk downward, finding the soft swell of her breast and pushing her neckline aside gently, revealing her cleavage. He was unveiling a rare painting and was admiring it with wanton eyes. Eleanor, he muttered, You are so beautiful. His lips slid down her throat. She arched her neck, asking for more. He gave it. Firmly he traced her chin and her throat with his teeth and lips, nipping and nibbling his way downward.

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The man must have sprouted twelve more hands, because now one was sliding up her leg beneath her skirts and raising goose bumps along the way. He paused at the lace top of her stocking, and stroked the bare skin he found. She moaned. Damn. Shed never moaned in her life. She found her fingers sifting through his hair and running over his wide shoulders. She slipped her hands beneath his shirt, thanking her guardian angel for undoing the top button. His flesh was hotter than fire to her touch, and so smooth. Eleanor could feel his heart pounding in his chest and his body temperature was reaching a boiling point as she found his skin. Could she be having this effect on him? She gasped as his mouth reached her breast. His teeth tugged on the lace that edged the silk cups, making her nipples shout out for attention. Justin ran his tongue across the soft skin along the edge of the bra, making her catch her breath on a giggle. It tickled. She felt Justins smile against her body. It was the most amazing sensation. Then his lips found her nipple and she went from one amazing feeling to another in the blink of an eye. He sucked her strongly into his mouth, silk bra and all. This was it. She was certainly going to pass out. The pull of his lips was yanking strings that seemed to be hard wired into her clit. Her hips were squirming, her body wanted to plaster itself against his, and they both had far too many clothes on. Just as she figured it was strip him or die, he moved back. Her inner scream deafened her for a moment, and she could only sit, frozen, panting with need.

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Like a volcano, the fury built within the streams of heat just under the surface. They were both close to eruption as the pressure of their desires grew. Eleanor. Justins voice was rough, and in the low light she could just make out his eyes, burning, heavy lidded with his arousal. Ask me in. He paused, tugging her neckline back into place over her nowsoaked bra. Please. She swallowed. She couldnt think. She didnt need to think. She needed to feel. Justinwouldwould you like to come in? Yeah, Eleanor. Id like that. Eleanor swallowed and reached to open her door, hearing Justin get out of the car and come around to her side. She was convinced her legs wouldnt hold her as she tried to walk coolly up her front path, but he kept touching her back, her waist, letting his hand slip down to rest on the swell of her buttocks where it burned through the fabric to imprint itself on her flesh. With trembling hands she fumbled the key in the lock and finally opened the door. They both sighed in relief. Welcome to my home, she said rather formally, as she stepped inside and turned to close the door behind them. Can I get you somemmph. The words were stopped by Justins mouth. He pressed her against the door, letting his hands and his heat speak for him. His lips ate at hers, moving constantly, teasing hers and opening her wide for the thrusting motions of his tongue.

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Somebody moaned, and Eleanor truly believed it might be her. Again. Well hell. She never moaned. But then Justin leaned his hips against hers and she felt his cock, so hard, so ready, against her belly. She ached, deep inside, and in an unconscious movement of welcome, spread her legs and pushed herself closer to him. Damn, Eleanor, he said, breathing hard and leaning his forehead against hers for a moment. Youre driving me crazy here. JustinI wantI want What? Tell me what you want Justin didnt give her chance to answer. Hungry for her, he bent to her once again, kissing her like his life depended on it. His hands caressed her body, kneading her flesh and warming every single inch of her. When he found her breast she gasped, and when he tugged on her hardened nipple, she tipped her head back and made a small sound of pleasure deep in her throat. If we dont move Im going to do it right here, right now, Justin growled, running his tongue over her neck and holding her hips tight against his cock. Up the stairson the right, muttered Eleanor, staggering a little as Justin moved back. Then he did something that took her breath away. He bent down, slipped an arm behind her knees and picked her up. Holy shit. The exclamation fell out of her mouth as it dropped open and she clutched his shoulders. Justins muscles hardened beneath her weight, but he obviously worked out enough to lift one small woman without breaking a sweat.

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She thought he might take the stairs two at a time, but then again, why risk it? He had her where he wanted her. On the way to her bedroom, in his arms, hot, ready, and all his. The soft glow of a night-light lit the way and he gently lowered his burden next to her bed. He let his hand slide up the backs of her legs beneath her skirt until he reached her backside and the soft, silk panties that rose high up toward her hips. He traced the leg openings with his fingers as she touched his face. Justin, she whispered. Shall I turn the light on? he asked, still playing with her skin. No. Nono lights. Its tooits moreI like it like this Her fingers drifted to the buttons on his shirt and she slowly began to undo them. It was a heady feeling for Eleanor. She sensed his hand trembling a little as he rubbed her ass, heating her skin through the thin silk of her underwear. His other hand ran down the neckline of her dress and traced the folds to her waist. He found the clasp and slipped it undone. The two halves of her dress fell apart as at the same moment she finished opening the final button of his shirt. She raised her head and looked at him, watching his eyes as they fell to her bra and lower, knowing he was seeing her pale skin, the white silk panties and her white, sheer, thigh-high hosiery. Is itumam Iwill I do? She straightened her shoulders slightly as she asked, hesitant but determined to make sure that he wanted this as much as she did. Justin took her hand and put it against his fly where his cock was threatening to vaporize his zipper any second. Does this answer your question?

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She pressed gently, feeling his length and curling her fingers around him through his Dockers. May I? she asked politely, making him grin. It looked a bit strained, but it was a grin. Help yourself. Eleanor unbuckled his belt, undid the fastening at his waist and gingerly lowered the zipper. She sighed with pleasure as the wonderful hardness of him expanded beneath his white boxers into her hands. He slipped his shirt off and tugged her dress off her shoulders, although she scarcely knew what he was doing, she was so absorbed in the feel of his body. He crossed his hands in front of him and whipped off his undershirt, leaving his chest bare and ready for her touch. One thing he said, lifting her chin. One more thing His hands went to the nape of her neck and her eyes widened as she realized what he intended. He was pulling the pins from her hair. She shivered. No one had seen her hair down for many years. And now this man, this incredibly sensual and handsome man, was tossing her hairpins every which way in a frenzy as if he couldnt wait to touch it. Her eyes widened as she watched his face. He was intense, focused, hands sure and firm in their moves. Within seconds the last pin was loosened and a thick rope tumbled free. He leaned back, eyes glowing as he let his fingers run up through the strands, separating them and letting them fall around her. He played with the long strands in his fingers as he combed through it and mumbled, Beautiful, simply beautiful.

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Deftly he unhooked her bra. As he slid the straps down to her elbows, he pulled her hair forward, covering her breasts with what must have seemed to him like yards of red stuff. Her bra dropped, forgotten, to the floor. Justin caught his breath. She stood, naked but for panties, thigh highs and a silly little pair of strappy heels. Her hair covered her breasts, barely, and fell to just below her waist. There seemed to be acres of it and Justin wanted to bury himself in it and feel it all over his body. Impatiently he toed off his shoes, kicked away his pants, and ripped his socks away, damning the seconds it took him to strip because they took him away from her. He wiggled his toes, feeling the freedom. He quickly shed his boxers and pulled her against him again, groaning at the wonderful feel of her body on his nakedness. She breathed in as they touched, nipples abrading chest, hands stroking, and hips bumping. Then she pushed him. Hard. He tumbled backwards onto the bed and she followed him down, hands everywhere, grasping, touching, as if she could learn every inch of him in under three minutes flat. Her tongue thrust into his mouth and demanded he pay attention, while her mound was grinding itself into his cock and bringing tears to his eyes. She was a writhing wanton on top of him and making him love every minute of it. Eleanor felt possessed. For once she found herself letting go of every single thought in her brain save one. Fucking Justin. If she could have eaten him whole, she would have.

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Instead, she let her lips and her mouth and her hands nibble on him, from his lips and his face, down the beard-roughened surface of his neck to his wonderful chest. There she finally got to do what shed been fantasizing about. She licked him, like a mother cat washing her kittens. She found his small nipple and suckled it, making his hips jump and his heart rate accelerate. She tugged on his chest hair with her teeth, while his hands stroked her back and played with her hair. She investigated his navel, finding that her fingers could tease his nipples some more even though her tongue was busy elsewhere. She felt him wriggle as she ran her tongue in wet, soft circles around it. He had a ticklish navel. Hmm. Interesting. She ran her hands behind her neck and flopped her hair over her head onto his chest, and heard him sigh as the pile of red silk landed on his body. And then she moved down even more. And foundtreasure. Rising from its nest of soft curls was Justins magnificent cock. Hard, wide, ready for her, it was truly a work of art. She teased it with her hands, running them up and down, squeezing a little and letting go, tracing the veins and ridges, and doing all those things shed only read about in her romance novels. Justin moaned, Oh damn, you aremmm mmm. She investigated further, finding his balls right where they were supposed to be. This was one hell of a safari.

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She rolled his hills around in her hands and explored the rift valley beyond. Then she returned to the rain forest and began to play with the mighty sequoia that rose from the vegetation. God, what a Discovery Channel special his body would make. Hed be a ratings sensation. Eleanor could feel his muscles tightening beneath her hands as she raised herself to taste him. Slowly, ooh-so-slowly, she lowered her mouth over his cock, taking as much as she could, but nowhere near enough. She pulled back again, letting her tongue catch beneath the head, and bringing a groan to Justins throat. Hard hands grasped her arms and in a blurred movement, she was suddenly flat on her back. Too much, gasped Justin. Too much, too soon He tugged her hair away from her breast and lowered his mouth, sucking hotly on her flesh. His tongue toyed with her nipple, circling it and teasing it and making her moan and squirm with pleasure. He released it with a little pop and treated the other breast to a thorough dose of his loving. Eleanor was beside herself. She was wet, and hot, and ready to take whatever he could give her. And he gave. Now his hands were everywhere, and his mouth right behind them. He stroked and pulled and kneaded her body, turning her around and over and under him, never losing contact with her. Her panties were long gone, and he peeled her stockings down her legs with agonizing slowness, tracing their path with his mouth, leaving nibbling kisses in its wake.

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When he finally found himself between her legs he sighed with contentment, pausing for a moment to stroke her bared mound. My God, too beautiful, he groaned, running his fingers down over her swollen tissue and finding her juices soaking her folds. The rough fingertips stroked the flesh open and Justin sighed with pleasure as he touched the inner sanctum of this beauty. He dipped his head and sent her skyrocketing into another level of existence where nothing was real except for the touch of his mouth. Eleanor figured she was going to die from pleasure. That her body would cease to function beneath the onslaught of Justins incredibly talented tongue. Hed settled himself down between her thighs as if he was in for the duration, and his hands slid under her buttocks, raising her slightly for his convenience. Time for dessert, he mused. With one long, firm stroke he licked the length of her pussy and a tidal wave of passion flowed from within her. And ohgodohgodohgod, the things he was doing to her. His tongue, that incredible, wonderful, award-winning piece of flesh with a mind of its own that even now was learning every single crease and wrinkle in that most private of places, andohgod therehad found her clit and was introducing itself with a great deal of enthusiasmohgodohgodhow could people stand this for very long without simply giving up and letting the pleasure kill them? She moaned and writhed and widened her legs and thrust her hips hungrily into Justins face. It was as if he knew he had found the key to unlock her door to ecstasy. Her firm, swollen clit must have beckoned him because he gave it his undivided attention. It was probably waving a white flag of surrender by now, so he could

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hardly have missed it. He sucked it between his lips and let the tip of his tongue circle it and wash it with his hot mouth. It was heaven. Pure and simple heaven. She was all Justin could have wanted and then some. Tangy and salty sweet, her taste was unique, all woman, and yet like nothing hed ever had before. Her bare mound tantalized him and encouraged him to find all her secret places that were no longer a secret from him. He buried his face in her, snuffling his way to her core, and feeling her respond to his every breath and movement. God, how he loved to taste her. He could have stayed there enjoying her all night, but he felt her muscles tighten in her thighs and heard her breathing pattern change. Mumble, mumble, mmmm, grrrr, mumble. He wondered if shed remember that he mumbled when he ate. His deep muttering sounds made her clit vibrate against his mouth sending a jittery stream of pleasure up her spine. Ohhhhh, God. Her moan spurred him on. She gasped for air and her breasts thrust skyward. The red hue of her flushing skin illuminated her body and she became a pale angel spreading her wings as she raised her arms above her head. He wanted this first time to be for both of them. Condom he muttered, pulling himself back up her body. Hed come prepared, but it was in his pants pocket. He couldnt remember where the hell his pants were. Higher mental functions like memory were shutting down at a rapid rate. Base functions were taking control. Wheres my pants? Bedside table. Drawer she whispered back, trying to touch him all over, at once.

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Mercifully, he found what he was looking for. Hmmm, ribbed for his protection and her pleasure. He glanced at the writing on the wrapper while trying to open the condom with one hand. Damn. He couldnt do it. Sinking down on top of his elbows, his weight rested on top of Eleanor. His stiff, rigid cock lay on her mound. The vein along its length throbbed and he knew Eleanor must be able to feel his heartbeat through it. God, I just want to be inside her. Thoughts of just abandoning all reason and simply ravaging this huge beast of a man ran through Eleanors mind as she reached down and grasped his ass in her hands. She pulled him down, squeezing the muscular flesh of his ass. While he ripped at the wrapper with his teeth, Eleanor began to squirm against him, riding up and down, begging him to hurry. She felt a small trickle of anticipation on her belly, as Justin grew even more excited from her constant rubbing. His biceps bulged, and Eleanors eyes widened as she realized his strength. Sure, hed picked her up, but she hadnt had a chance to appreciate the sheer beauty of his body. He rolled to the side and slid the condom over the tip of his cock. Smiling, he looked at Eleanor for help. Hmm, now lets see, she giggled. His cock dwarfed her hand. She slid her hand beneath it and grasped his balls. Slowly rolling the sheer protection down the firm shaft of his cock, she looked at Justins eyes smiling down at her and revealing his reactions. There you go, all ready now? Without a moment to waste Justin buried his mouth against hers and swept his tongue inside, making Eleanor moan.

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His power was locked into a rippling mass of tissue, not bulky, but supple, smooth and rolling just where it was supposed to roll. He was Man with a capital M, and when he finally rested his cock against her entrance, she raised her hips a little to help him along. After all, she was Woman with a capital W. For tonight, anyway. I cant wait he said, gathering her hair in his hands and holding her still beneath him. I dont want you to, she answered, opening her legs wide. With a smooth thrust of his hips, Justin drove himself into Eleanor, and completely lost himself within her.

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Chapter 7
His cock felt about as big as the Empire State Building. Eleanors gasp of delight as hed plunged into her had echoed around in his brain and made him feel like some sort of conquering hero. He pulled back a little and pushed in again, just for the pleasure of hearing her sob for breath. She was tight around him, very tight. It really had been a long time for her. Not that he was complaining. To get settled into such a hot, welcoming channel and squeezed by her silky flesh was an incredible feeling. My God, you feel so incredible, he whispered in her ear. The words only stirred her fire more. He slipped his hands beneath her and grabbed her wonderful ass, lifting her, and taking advantage of the fact that he now had his hands right where he wanted them. Right where hed wanted them since he first saw her backside as she bent over in his bar. She was solidly built, her buttocks overflowing his grasp, but curving and rounded just like a womans backside should be. He pulled her tighter against him and pushed again, grinding their bodies together and pounding her clit as he moved in and out. Eleanor felt her eyes rolling back into her head. Justin loved her to the edge of madness, his thrusts setting up a rhythm that her pulses responded to, and his hands urging her on to even greater heights.

*****
All Eleanors senses seemed to crystallize as Justin claimed her. She could hear the sounds their bodies made as they mated, the soft squish of hot flesh

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against hot flesh. She could feel every thread in the quilt beneath her as she grasped and twisted it with both hands, and she could smell the unique fragrance that the two of them were making as their heat blended in the air around them. She had the taste of him in her mouth, and she could seeahhshe could see him, just, as he worked above her. She watched for a moment or two, seeing his muscles flex with each twist of his hips. His hair was hanging untidily over his face, and his skin was flushed. His lips were parted, and he too was breathing rapidly now. His eyes lifted slightly and caught her watching him. Come for me, Eleanor, he murmured roughly. Come for me. His eyes stayed fixed on hers as he pushed himself harder into her body, slapping against her now as his need grew. Eleanors breath left her body. Her lungs trembled with excitement and refused to function. Justins cock was teasing all the right places deep inside her and when he shifted his weight and slipped a hand between them to find her clit, she was lost. She raised her legs and locked her ankles around Justins back, holding him as tight against her as she could while still allowing him room to move. His hips slammed, his fingers squeezed her clit And Eleanor Preston screamed and came. And came. Her body went insane. Each and every muscle got up and danced to a different rhythm, except for the one that was squeezing the life out of Justins cock. That one was quite orderly, spasming at regular intervals, milking him, holding him, refusing to give up this incredibly wonderful experience.

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A hoarse shout above her penetrated her orgasmic daze, and somewhere in a little untouched portion of her brain she registered that Justin had reached his own satisfaction. His pulsing within her started her tremors all over again, and she choked in a breath as her body answered his with more clenching spasms. Justin groaned, pushing his body so hard against her that she thought shed break in half. But it was incredibly wonderful too, letting her body and his blend together as their minds exploded and their flesh mingled. Her thigh muscles eased and she pulled her legs away from Justins waist, letting them slide down his body to the bed. Justin stayed right where he was, staring at her from deep brown eyes that seemed glazed and out of focus. She didnt want to breathe. She didnt want to move. She didnt want this moment to end. Just feeling his cock inside her body, and his wonderful skin brushing hers in so many of the right places was the most erotic thing Eleanor could remember. If it never happened again, shed have a mental snapshot of this moment, this man, to last her the rest of her life. Finally, Justin heaved a sigh and pulled himself out of her, collapsing at her side. It looks like E.T. Justin smiled as he looked at his flaccid cock wrinkled in the condom. Eleanor followed his gaze and wondered if it wanted to phone home or if she should just get some Reeses Pieces. Then a little gurgle started deep inside her belly and slowly erupted into laughter.

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She rolled back against the pillow and laughed until the tears ran down her cheeks, while Justin took himself into her bathroom and tidied up. When he came back, she was still giggling a little, choking the sound down, but hiccupping every now and again. You okay? Justin slipped in beside her and pulled her into his arms. She cuddled in, finding all the places where she fit so nicely. Im so much better than okay, Justin. There are no words to define the way I feel right now. Thank you He grinned. It was an all male, one hundred percent guaranteed testosterone grin, and she loved it. Not just for theumwell, you knowbut also for the E.T. joke. Although, if were talking interplanetary here, theum, you knowwas out of this world. But you helped me over that awful moment, the ohmygod-I-justhad-sex-with-this-man-now-what-do-I-do moment, and Im so glad you did. Of course, Ill never be able to watch E.T. again, but hell, it was worth it. Justin tucked her against him. Youre welcome. And youre right. The um, you know was completely cosmic. She sighed and brushed her hand over the light furring of hair that whorled over his chest. I havent felt this good in years. I should have done this long ago. So whyd you wait so long? Not that Im complaining, of course Well, other than the fact that I didnt want to go to bed with the people who were doing the asking, I kind of decided that perhaps sex wasnt for me. That I really wasnt very good at it, so why bother. A snort greeted this statement. Honey, if youre no good at it, then I must have been doing it wrong for years!

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Justin let his fingers touch the fine gold chain, which had fallen from between her breasts onto his chest. He held the little charm up to the glow of the nightlight and tilted his head as he saw the shape catch the light. The letter Y. Hmmnot for your name, thats for sure. Whats it mean? I just told you, she mumbled into his shoulder. Why bother? Its a Y for the word why not the letter Y. I just figured I needed to remember that in case I In case what, Eleanor? In case I found myself wanting to go to bed with somebody. Like me. Well, yes. Sort of. And yet here we are Yes. We are, arent we? How about that. She chuckled sleepily and tucked her nose even farther up on Justins shoulder, almost touching his neck. She drew in a lungful of air, pressing her body close against his. You smell good, warm, and all man, she said, letting her eyes close. Justin gathered a handful of her hair and brought it to his face, dusting its softness over his cheeks and letting it catch on the stubble that was just starting to darken his chin. So do you, babe. So do you.

*****
Eleanor woke to the musical sound of bees buzzing quietly in her room. For that blissful moment between sleeping and waking, she let it curl around her eardrums and seep into her brain. Then she opened her eyes, wondering what the hell bees were doing in her bedroom. A quick glance told her it wasnt bees at all.
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It was the most gorgeously wonderful, stubble-faced man, snuffling in his sleep next to her. Holy shit. This was a first. She was actually waking up next to Mr. Romance Cover Model after a night of toe-curling sex. And he was still here. That was another first. She realized that the cool air had woken her, which wasnt surprising, since apparently even cover models like to hog the blankets. But for the pleasure of looking at him like this, she wasnt about to complain. His hair was mussed, a dark pool of tousled strands against her pillows. His face was beautifully boned, and his chin was definitely dark nowhed have a heck of a beard if he ever decided to grow one. She pondered that thought, then decided his lips and chin were too perfect to hide underneath any hair. Following that train of consideration, he probably shouldnt be allowed to wear clothes at all given the perfection of the rest of his body. She sighed, remembering how hed made her feel the night before. And the laughter theyd shared, which was another huge surprise. She just felt as if all the puzzle pieces were falling into place with this man. All of a sudden the hairs on the back of her neck stood up. Oh God. She could fall seriously ininaffection with this guy. Supposing he woke up and regretted this whole deal. Supposing he opened his eyes and the first thing that went through his mind was, Oh no. What the hell did I do? Supposingsupposing Oh fuck. He was going to hate her. She just knew it. He was going to remember that she was really not very good at this whole deal, and he was going to wonder

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what kind of an idiot he was for sleeping with her, when he could have had any of the gorgeous women who probably circled him likelike bees around a honey pot. Fear cramped her stomach, and she gingerly eased off the bed, leaving him sleeping comfortably in his cocoon of her blankets. She slipped silently into the bathroom and after her morning ritual grabbed her robe and made her way downstairs to the kitchen. What to do now? Finding solace in the routine, she grabbed her coffee pot and started brewing, putting in extra for Justin. She didnt even know if he liked coffee. Or how he took it. Black? Cream and sugar? Did he want cornflakes or muffins? Should she cook breakfast? Ack. She was driving herself nuts.

*****
The scent of fresh perked coffee filled the house and Justin blinked his eyes. He licked his lips and stretched across the completely shredded bed. The blankets were all pulled loose from the mattress and his feet poked out the bottom. He wiggled his toes and saw his other head was awake also. Scratching himself, he yawned and walked naked out of the room. In typical male fashion he scratched his ass and pulled his other hand through his messed up hair. He wanted his woman, coffee and the bathroom. Not necessarily in that order. Hearing the water running upstairs, Eleanor leaned on the counter and took several deep breaths. It would be okay. It would be okay. She repeated her mantra as the coffee brewed and the morning sunshine flooded the neat kitchen, dancing off the white countertops and the spotless chrome of her appliances.

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She didnt realize that Justin had stepped into the kitchen and was watching her waiting for the coffee. She certainly couldnt have read his thoughts at that moment. Mmmm, breakfast. Lost in her worries, she didnt hear the footsteps behind her, and jumped when a pair of strong arms encircled her. A warm presence pulled her back against him and a low voice whispered in her ear. Good morning. She couldnt help it. She leaned back into him, feeling his heat and his early morning erection through every cell in her body. Good morning, Justin. Did you sleep okay? I made coffeeI didnt know I slept fine. Great, in fact. And coffee would be wonderful. He turned her in his arms and pressed her against the counter. But theres something else that would wake me up even more He was so beautiful in the sunlight, thought Eleanor, looking into those sensual eyes of his, glowing with golden lights. He was stark naked and completely unconcerned about it. In fact, it seemed to be something he was comfortable with and expected to find, since he was busily undoing the ties to her robe and revealing her skin beneath. Mmmbetter, much better, he said, as he bared her and tugged her against him. Good grief. Her breasts gravitated to his chest like a needle to north. If she had to squish herself against anyone, this was the man. His hands slid down behind her, gripped her ass, and lifted her, positioning her just where he wanted her. She started to get very wet and achy, and her

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knees trembled. Then one little brain cell stood up and waved its hand frantically. Justin, shouldnt weI meanprotection and all that Damn. I wasnt thinking, babe. I just want you. Now. Here in the sunshine. Got any Saran Wrap? Eleanor gasped at the need she saw in his eyes and pulled her brain out of her crotch, forcing it to function. I have a free sample condom. On the table behind you. I pulled it out just in case She knew she was blushing and he was probably laughing his head off at her. But he said nothing, just glanced around, found the packet and handed it to her. Do it for me, honey Eleanor blinked. Umwell, you know, Im not real good at this, she stuttered. Her lack of verbal skills might well have been because Justin was now playing gently with her nipples as she held the condom. Practice makes perfect, Eleanor, he chuckled. Awkwardly she tore it open. Holding the small disk, she considered it, as Justin continued teasing her breasts and making her gasp. Justin, wait a moment here she choked. His head dipped and he began loving her nipples with his tongue. For what, babe? he mumbled slightly as he ate her breast for breakfast. Mmmm. I cantI cantI dont know how to start this thing, she gasped. Well, theres only one place it goes, he said. He blew on her damp skin, making her moan. I know that, she hissed. Her frustration level rose because his cock was so near yet so far. Damn. Shed never wanted anything so much in her life as she did him.

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He laughed and took pity on her. Here, sweetheart. He showed her the right way to hold it and how to unroll it so that it covered his length smoothly. She noticed he caught his breath as her hands eased the latex over his cock, which she knew she could manage. Shed done a damn fine job last night even if she did say so herself. It was the starting-off bit that was complicated. But clearly, Justin liked her doing this for him. And heaven knew she liked the things Justin was doing for her. He rubbed himself over her mound, letting her juices moisten his protected cock and incidentally sending bolts of pleasure directly to her womb. Justin, she whispered, hands rubbing his shoulders, mouth dry, body aching now for his loving. He understood the messages she was sending, and his strong arms lifted her just a fraction more to where he wanted her. With a mutual sigh, their bodies joined. Justins cock slid into Eleanor like the proverbial sword into its sheath, and for once, Eleanor could fully appreciate all those hyper-adjectival passages in her romance novels. There truly were only so many ways to describe this exquisite feeling. And she was plumb out of words. Justin moved energetically, claiming her, possessing her, and probably realigning her spine at the same time. You have noidea how gooooodyou feel. Justin stammered his words as he lunged in and out of her. She made everything feel so wonderful. Her whole body seized him, her legs slid up his thighs to lock around his waist, and she opened herself to his loving. She got it.

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There, in her sparklingly pristine kitchen, with the Sunday morning sunshine quietly turning everything into a glittering landscape of stars, Eleanor and Justin made love to each other, standing up, unabashed, and with more passion than Eleanor could have ever imagined. Shit. Moments like these made life worth living. It was incredible, it was beyond belief, and it was quick. No more than a minute after Justin sank himself into her, she was coming, with a ferocity that threatened to blow the top of her head off. Justins eyes focused on Eleanor. Her breasts, those wonderful smooth mounds of flesh that brushed against his chest. Her tight nipples, deep red and poking out as if begging for attention. He watched as his cock disappeared into the tight, silky flesh of her pussy. She yelled, and locked herself tight, her legs cramping around Justins waist. Her spasms pulled at him, squeezing him, tugging him up with her to take that great jump into the fire. They clutched at each other, lost in some wild, mind-numbing tumble of bodies and minds and muscles, and for a few moments, they became one. The heat of their bodies became hotter then the suns rays, lighting the kitchen. Shuddering, Eleanor let it all go. Her body answered Justins call and mated with his cock. Justin groaned out his orgasm, trembling between her legs, with sweat running down over his chest. Finally, the shivers subsided and Eleanors legs unlocked. Justin groaned. Sheesh. Shed probably cracked his ribs. I she whispered, at a loss for words. Yeah, he panted.

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It was long moments before either could manage anything more coherent. And even then, it was hard. Wow. Eleanors contribution. Mmm. Justins response. Really impressive post-coital dialogue, thought Eleanors analytical brain hemisphere, while her body hemisphere wiped the sweat off its forehead and grinned. Gently, they eased apart, and she gripped the counter for support, knowing that the spaghetti she usually referred to as her legs wouldnt take her weight right at this moment. Sadly, Justin looked down at E.T. and back up at Eleanor. You mind if I take a shower? Not at all. Go ahead. Ohyou still want coffee? That would be great, thanks. Black, two sugars? Okay. She turned to the coffee pot and knocked the pile of mail that was sitting on the counter. It spilled on the floor. Sheesh. Justin leaned down gathering the envelopes to hand to her. Um, let me get this. You go shower, and take care ofer She gestured vaguely at his cock, still sheathed, but now a lot more loosely. She grabbed the envelopes as he straightened. All right. Ill hurry. He smiled at her as he turned and headed for the stairs. She watched his incredibly fine naked ass as he walked up the stairs. Ooooh, mama, she muttered. Justin shook his ass and played air guitar and sang, YOU, SHOOK ME ALL NIGHT LONG as he walked away. Shaking her head and grinning, she started to re-stack her mail and froze.

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The top envelopes all bore the same return address. In vivid blue ink. Very prominently displayed. Preston Industries.

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Chapter 8
A chill slid down Eleanors spine as she tightened her robe and put the letters out of sight in a cabinet. The last thing she wanted was for anything related to Preston Industries to intrude into her relationship with Justin. Well, assuming what they had was a relationship. All right, it was one date. And twoumyou knows. But it could be a relationship. And if it was, there was no room for Preston Industries in it. Of course, Justin might not have made the connection. The fact that Preston Industries was one of the major venture capital companies in the state was well known, but primarily in business circles. Damn. He ran a business. Bars needed financing. Eleanor pushed her hair back behind her ear and blew a breath out between her teeth. Shed have to hope and pray that Justin never caught on that she had the same last name as one of the biggest businesses around, not to mention the multi-floored building, which housed its head offices in the state capital. Shed really have to go down on her knees and beg her guardian angel to keep him from ever finding out that her father ran the whole shebang. She drained her coffee and poured another cup, feeling the caffeine help to put the strength back into her legs. She was still shaking a little from the after effects of Justins loving, and the hot liquid soothed her frazzled nerves. She was able to face him as he came back downstairs, all clean and damp andandoh God, so sexy.

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She wanted to rub herself all over him like a cat scenting its territory. Or was that a dog? No, they peed. She wasnt quite at that level yet, but dear Lord, looking at him now, it was a close thing. He was buttoning his shirt and hiding that chest, and she wanted to cry. She poured a mug for Justin and put it next to him before she did something really stupid like kiss his pecs goodbye. Thanks. He sipped it as appreciatively as she had done just moments before. Ahhhhhhh, thats good. Its Jamaican. She sighed as he buckled his belt. Eleanor, I His words were cut off by a loud chirp from his pants. They both jumped. Eleanor looked at her silk robe and held out her empty hands. Not mine, I dont have one on me. Must be yours, she said, staring at his crotch. See what you do to me? You made IT chirp. Justin slapped at his pockets and dug out his cell phone as it chirped again. Yeah, he said. He held it to his ear with one hand as he held his mug in the other. Eleanor turned away, politely allowing him to take the call, yet feeling her ears stretch as she tried to figure out if it was perhaps a woman on the other end of the call. Jesus, Dave Whew. That answered that question. Refusing to acknowledge the sigh of relief that was lurking deep in her lungs, she emptied the grounds from the pot and put the filter in the trash. Anything to keep busy. Okay. I said all right. He looked at his watch. I can be there in about twenty minutes.

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He snapped the phone shut, drained his mug, and turned apologetically to Eleanor. Im sorry, hon. Really sorry. I have to gothat was my partner, Dave. Some kind of crisisI dont know whats up, but it sounded important. She nodded. I understand. Business is business. He dropped his jacket on the chair and fished his keys out of his pocket. Jangling them slightly, he closed the distance between them. Eleanor, he said softly. Last nightwell, last night was incredible. And so was this morning She could feel the color creeping up into her cheeks as she gazed into his incredible brown eyes and felt herself going under for the third time. Ium, I thought so too. His hand went to her hair, pulling it loose, twining it through his fingers and letting it drop onto her robe over her breast. He leaned against her, and she felt his heat even through the layers of fabric that separated them. He set his keys onto the counter, moving both hands over the silk of her robe and found her ass, pulling her tight to his body. Can I see you again? He asked the question and his breath grazed her lips as he kneaded her buttocks. Oh yes, Justin, Id like that, she answered. Her eyes dropped to his mouth as it neared hers. He tugged on her hair, bringing her head to his. Slowly, oh-so-slowly, he pulled her until their lips met. It started out as light, feathery touches of skin to skin, but quickly turned hot as Eleanor opened to his tongue and sucked him in. The kiss took them back into places where bodies ached, and souls yearned, and it was with great difficulty that Justin stepped back, finally, with a sigh. Damn, I hate to leave. But, EleanorI definitely want to see you again. And soon. Can I call you?

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Eleanor felt her heart threaten to pound through her ribs. Any time, Justin. You have my number. Oh here, I should give you my cell number, he muttered, looking around for a pen. Eleanor passed him a small pad of paper with a pencil attached. He grinned as he noticed how organized she was, and scribbled his number down. Call me, okay? Just to say hello? Umsureokay, she said. Privately Eleanor wondered if she could ever pluck up enough courage to call a man just to say hello. He grabbed his keys, swung his jacket over his shoulder and headed for the door. Im sorry about the rush, he said again, as she stood slightly behind the open front door. She wasnt about to share her sleepwear with the neighborhood. Its okay. Really. I do understand. Godont keep your partner waiting. He stared at her for a moment, his expression hard to read. Then he leaned over and dropped a light kiss on her parted lips and he grabbed her ass again. Damn, I love that ass. He smiled and gave it a quick pinch. And with that he was gone.

*****
Hello, Jodi? Eleanor? Is that you? The line crackled a bit, but Eleanor laughed as she heard the amazement in the question. Yes, its me. What the hell are you doing calling me at this hour? What do you mean, this hour? Figuring in the time difference, its got to bewhattwo or three oclock there now?

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A snort answered her mathematical calculations. I know what time it is here, its what time it is there thats confusing me. Plus the fact that its Sunday and you never get up before noon on Sunday. Well, I did today, answered Eleanor defensively. And I wanted to talk to you. Is that a problem? Its a man, isnt it? Eleanor stared at the phone. She and Jodi were four years apart, yet they remained close friends as well as sisters. Nothing, not even the Atlantic Ocean, had kept them from regularly chatting, and as always, Eleanor was amazed at her sisters uncanny reading of her own situation. How the hell did you know? Jodis sexy laugh erupted from the speaker. I know you, sweetie. You get that little hitch in your voice. There was a pause. Well, you used to get that little hitch in your voice. I havent heard it in years. So tell me all about him. Eleanor sighed. Where to start? Hes gorgeous, Jo, she grinned into the phone. Really, really gorgeous. Hes tall, and hes got this chestwell, his eyes are the richest brown, and his hairs on the long side, andand She sputtered to a standstill. How to describe Justins many fine attributes? For the next ten minutes, Jodi grilled Eleanor mercilessly, pulling out every pertinent piece of information she knew about himwhere theyd met, what theyd had for dinner, what he drove, what he liked in the way of music. Eleanor was wondering if she was going to get to the boxers-vs-briefs question, when Jodi came right to the point. So. How was he in bed? Now how on earth was she going to answer that? Fabulous? Beyond belief? Rapture approaching cosmic magnificence?

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I think were into need-to-know with that question. You dont need to know. Aha. You did sleep with him. And he probably just left a little while ago, and thats why youre calling me, because you cant believe that a gorgeous guy like him wants you, right? For Gods sake, Jodi, you make me sound likelike some ditsy teenager with serious self-confidence issues. If the shoe fits Oh, come on, laughed Eleanor. Im not that bad. She thought for a moment. Am I? Yup. All the way, cherie. Oh dont go all Frenchified on me, please. We both know youre in Paris, and Im not. Its a choice we both made, and Im happy with mine. I know, El. And I love being here, the city is great, and Im learning so much at Cordon Bleuwe made the right choices. But I know how to have fun with a guy. You still worry over each and every little thing Do not. There it was. Jodi could reduce her to a twelve-year old in less than thirty seconds when she put her mind to it. So tell me. What is it about Justin thats worrying you? The Preston Industries mail was here on the counter. It fell and he picked it up. So? So what if he saw the name and made the connection? What if he did? Jodicmon. A shot at Vale Prestons oldest daughter? The man who has a Mercedes for every day of the week?

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Eleanor, why are you completely incapable of believing a man might like you just for yourself? Oh jeez. This is me, remember? Fat ass and all Jodi sighed loudly. Listen. Did you have a good time with this guy? Yes. Do you want to see him again? Yes. If you thought hed made the connection, and knew you were filthy rich, would you still want to see him again? Eleanor tugged on her lower lip as she considered Jodis question. Would she want to see Justin again? Even if he knew who she was? Yes. So there you go. If you truly think he only wants to get his hands on your money, then fine. You know where you stand. He obviously rings your chimes in a big way, so how about you use him the same way? I dont understand, frowned Eleanor. It was Jodis turn to sigh. Honey, if youre so certain that all he wants from you is money, then maybe you should figure out what you want from him. Which, from where Im sitting, sounds like sex. Eleanor blushed. Youre blushing, Eleanor. Damn sisters. Shadduuuup. Jodi giggled. So you date the guy, and use him for sex. Wheres the problem? You have a good time, he doesnt get your money, and you dont get disappointed. Just screwed nicely. Jodi! And I sincerely hope youre using protection.

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Eleanor closed her eyes and counted to twenty. You do not need to give me the safe sex lecture, thank you. Good thing, too. So did you put it on him with your mouth? WHAT? Now Eleanor was really shocked. Your mouth. You knowwarm it in your mouth then roll it down over his Jodi! Eleanor choked out her sisters name while visions of men in suits from the FCC knocking at her door with a warrant for her arrest flew through her brain. Oh, for crying out loudcheck the Internet. Get directions. Look, Ive gotta go, I have a date with a lovely Frenchman. Do as I sayfirst off, I doubt if he even knows who you are, but use him for great sex anyway. Have some down and dirty fun, sweetie. Youre long overdue. Jowaitthe Internet? Jodi? Auvoir, El. The dial tone buzzed as Eleanor stared at the phone and wondered what the hell ever happened to Barbie and the Gap and trips to the mall with her baby sister. Now it was Getting Erotic with Latex. She shook her head. And then opened her laptop and began to type.

*****
Several hours later she was standing in front of the fresh produce section at the supermarket groping zucchinis. Well, she wasnt actually groping them, more like running a size comparison study. Strictly in the interests of research, of course. Ya know, honey, said a gravelly voice next to her. I like the extra firm ones. They last longer.
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Turning, Eleanor saw an older woman with a little too much eye makeup staring at the zucchinis arrayed neatly on the shelf. Er, you do? Yup. In spite of herself, Eleanor blushed. The woman grinned. Hey, a vegetable never let me down, ya know? Never walks out on ya, never forgets to call, and doesnt even cost much. She nudged Eleanor with a bony elbow. Bettern those pricey things from that show on HBO. Ya know, the one with all those skinny gals frisking up Fifth Avenue in designer shoes? Um yes. I know the one. Good. Here, try this one. Looks about right. And she shoved a firm, smooth zucchini into Eleanors hands and left with a wink. Eleanor closed her eyes and wondered for the ninety-seventh time if this wasnt some kind of cosmic joke at her expense. However, she was a woman with a mission, and a new skill to master. Resolutely, she collected more zucchini, using the first one as a guide. Then she stopped by the personal products section and picked up two boxes of extra large condoms. She put them in her basket and headed for the register, then paused. Damn. Those items were a dead giveaway. Especially if the customer behind her was one of those who liked to see what others were buying and run a psych profile based on their purchases. Just like Eleanor herself did. Without thinking, she grabbed a couple more items and tossed them casually into her basket for camouflage.

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It wasnt until she emptied her items onto the belt that she realized shed added two boxes of chocolate pudding and a bottle of mouthwash to her eclectic shopping spree. The checkout clerk eyed her customer, ringing in the zucchini without a word, and didnt bat an eyelash as she ran the pudding and the mouthwash over the sensor. Then came the boxes of condoms. A slow grin spread over her tired face. Thatll be thirty-four seventy, she said, bagging the items carefully. Eleanor handed over a twenty and three fives. Heres your change honey, and you have yourself a real good evening, now, you hear? Cheeks flushing hotly, Eleanor made her escape, practically running through the parking lot to her car. What the hell had made her think she could buy all that stuff and have nobody notice? She was out of her mind. Or, more accurately, someone else was in it. Justin. She glanced at the zucchini-filled grocery bag. Damn it. She would do this. She would learn and practice until she got it right, and then she would blow Justins mind clean out of his ears. So there!

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Chapter 9
Justin spent the next few days in a daydreaming state of mind. Well, yeah, it was more of a pornographic state of mind. Picturing Eleanor, her body, her curves, the way she arched before orgasm. The many things he could imagine doing to her and the positions the two of them could try that werent even in the Kama Sutra. Justin? Fuck, man, Im trying to talk to you and youre sprouting a boner for that piece-of-ass you met the other night! Extremely pissed-off by Daves comments, Justin glared back. Fuck you, Dave. Ive been listening to you. Its not my fault you stuck your dick somewhere you shouldnt and your wife caught you. And, shes not just a piece-of-ass! I like her. I really like her a lot. Thinking about it, she was one HELLUVA piece of ass, though. Im sorry, Justin. Im stressed, dude. Shes threatening to take everything. I have to sell my half of the bar and Dave sipped his scotch then downed the rest of the drink, letting the remaining ice swirl in the glass. Feeling sorry for his friend, Justin thought carefully about how to reply. I just cant believe you got caught, dude. You should have gone to a hotel or something. I didnt agree with you cheating on Mary, but I warned you so many times about screwing around in the stockroom. He paused. Jesus, and with Jim the bartender AND A SHEEP? I didnt know you went three different ways, Dave. Daves head thumped against the bar. Holding his arm out, he motioned for another drink. Maybe the alcohol would help ease his pain, or just blur it. What am I gonna do, Justin?

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*****
It was Tuesday morning, and Eleanors day to work at home. It was the one luxury she allowed herself, the one perk offered by the company that shed accepted. Even though theyd suggested all manner of delightful benefits to the daughter of Vale Preston, Eleanor hadnt wanted any of them. This was one job where her success would be all her own. But when theyd mentioned the option of telecommuting for one day a week, shed caved. So here she was at home, but instead of busily working on her latest graphic render, she was giving a zucchini a blowjob. Well, it wasnt exactly a blowjob, although if this zucchini happened to be male, hed probably be grinning from stem to leaf right about now. He was pretending to be a penis. An improbably green penis, but a penis nevertheless. He was secured by the base to a spiked frog, commandeered from her flower arranging supplies, and he was ready to be dressed. By Eleanor. Hands free. He was the latest in a long line of zucchini to bravely sacrifice their lives in the name of good sex. The first few she had ambitiously carved to resemble an anatomically correct erect male. However, shed learned that to carve a zucchini was to compromise the strength of a zucchini, and that no matter how skilled she might be, condoms didnt fit over the splattered flesh of a peeled vegetable. She wondered if zucchini facials were beneficial to the skin. If so, she should probably make it to the cover of Vogue next week sometime, right under the headline that would read Mashed Zucchini Restores Youthful Complexion.

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Expression intense, concentration cranked up to the max, Eleanor slipped an unwrapped condom into her mouth. With a wrinkle of her lips she positioned it as the instructions had said, kind of like a wad of bubble gum. That hadnt been the best analogy, since the first few shed tried had stuck to the walls where theyd landed as she blew out her breath a little too forcefully. Now, however, she thought she might just have the knack. And a lot of leftover zucchini. Gently she bent to her task. Moving her lips and tongue in concert, she positioned the condom over the head of the zucchini, catching the very tip on the roof of her mouth with her tongue and holding on to it as she pushed it down over the sides with her lips. Ta-da! It had worked, again, the fifth in a row to be successfully sheathed. Female zucchinis could party hearty in her kitchen. There would be no shotgun casseroles required after their veggie orgy. Realizing that insanity might well be masquerading as fresh produce, Eleanor reluctantly began to clear away the remnants of her experimental equipment. It was time to practice on the real thing. Just thinking of doing to Justins cock what shed just done to the zucchini sent a shiver down her spine and started a dampness blooming between her legs. Oh God! Could she do it? Did she have the nerve? She wanted him there, right that minute, naked and ready. She acknowledged that shed actually wanted him just about every minute since hed left on Sunday, but that was neither here nor there. It was the now that concerned her and for the first time in her life she realized that she fully understood the deep significance of the word horny.

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She, Eleanor Preston, was horny. She wanted Justins mouth, his chest, his cock, his tongue and his hands, not to mention his awesomely beautiful ass. And not necessarily in that order. Any order would be fine. She wanted to breathe in his scent again, and taste him again. Actually, anything to get the taste of latex covered zucchini out of her mouth would be good. The mouthwash had been a lucky grab. It was Tuesday, and it was almost lunchtime. Did she dare? How bad did she want him? She leaned over the counter to grab a glass, and her breast brushed the toaster. She nearly screamed at the sensation, and it shocked her to see her nipples hard and poking through her shirt like rivets. She was oh-so-ready. She wanted him very, very badly. Sitting down, she reached for the small slip of paper next to her phone. Was this what she had sunk to in the few days since shed met Justin? A trembling, giddy, hormonally-confused woman giving oral sex to vegetables? She took a deep, calming breath, and dialed Justins number. Maybe he liked zucchini.

*****
Eleanor walked into the bar and found it mostly empty. Actually it was totally empty except for the clanging of bottles in the back room. Thank God it was lunchtime and nobody was around. A sudden sweep of excitement rushed through her as Justin stepped out from behind the bar. Hi. She hoped she didnt look as nervous as she felt. II missed you. Justin looked up, smiling Hello, Eleanor. Im sorry, some lawyer is dropping by in a bit so I cant go to lunch. I am really sorry.
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Eleanors thoughts jumbled at his words. Damn, damn, damn. But maybe, just maybe Um, Justin? Perhaps food wasnt exactly what I was hoping to eat A small wicked grin crossed her face and she walked behind the bar, running her fingers down its smooth rounded inside surface. This might just work. It was certainly worth a shotshe had nothing to lose. Remember, she told herself, it was just for the sex. Yeah right. Justin set down the glass carrier and stared at Eleanor walking toward him. She swayed and it wasnt as much her walk as it was her eyes. Piercing his chest and making his heart pound. Sexuality in motion. Did you think about me? Us? Did you miss me too? she asked. Oh yeah. Thought about you every minute. Justin tried to think of a good line to use but was a rapidly becoming speechless. Im not up on the new Rules of Dating. Not sure how soon to call. Eleanor didnt hear a word he spoke. Her entire focus was on his body. His incredibly delicious, muscled body. Shed had visions of him every night and longed to touch him again. She could feel herself getting wet just looking at him. She drew close and leaned into Justin, giving him a welcome squeeze. You know, I missed holding you and couldnt stop myself from thinking about you. I know it seems forward but I needed to see you. Eleanor looked down while she slid her hands along his tight stomach and to his pockets. Justin looked down at Eleanor. Im happy you came by. I noticed. Eleanor eyed his growing excitement. Looking back up to Justins eyes Eleanor reached her hand to his neck, pulling his mouth to hers. Her soft lips pressed against his and his heat made her melt like butter. Her other hand stroked the outside of his pants, feeling his butter knife grow harder to her touch.

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Her hand shook and her tongue slid between his lips. Oh God, I missed you. Eleanor moaned, grasping the girth of his cock. Kneeling down she raked her nails along his chest. Her moist lips kissed his warming flesh. Its lunchtime. Butthe lawyer is going touhtobe Justins eyes fluttered as Eleanor rested her cheek against the front of his pants. His cock was beginning to throb. Eleanor looked up and smiled. She knew what she wanted now, and his expression told her he wanted it every bit as much as she did. His cock was telling her it wanted it even more. The sound of his zipper being pulled down made him close his eyes. Eleanor, what if, mmm Eleanor pulled his pants loose and slid her hand beneath his balls as his cock sprung free and into her eager hands. Eleanor knew how it felt within her nowsoaking pussy. She was desperate to feel it between her other lips. To taste this man. Ooh, no underwear. You are such a bad boy. Eleanor extended her tongue to lick the swollen tip of his cock. So, okay. Shed save her advanced zucchini skills for another time. This would be just as good. Maybe even better. He wasnt green, tasted like Justin not a vegetable, and she couldnt wait to lose all those inhibitions about oral sex that shed carried around with her for years. He might not know it was a first for her, but she did. She grinned.

*****
Justin felt weak in the knees. He stared down and saw his cock disappear between the shiny peach lipstick across Eleanors stretched lips. Dear Lord, this feels

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In through the door walked a tall, tight-assed guy. Couldnt be anyone else but the lawyer. Justin tried to move away but Eleanor had other plans. Like a vacuum cleaner on high suction Eleanor wouldnt let him free from her mouth. She scooted under the bar to a small ledge and made herself comfortable. You must be Justin. Hello. Alan Baker, Im Daves lawyer. He stretched his hand out and Justin grasped it firmly, squeezing it just as Eleanor clamped tight with her lips. Their handshake brought a pained expression to the mans smile as he found his hand mangled by fingers that practically crushed his. Sitting at a table next to the tall bar, Alan set his black briefcase down, opened it and began, Im sure youve heard about the latest problems. Dave has completely gone under and he wants a speedy transaction. He suggested we go over these. Er, is everything okay? You look flushed. Yeah, Imummfine. Just fine. Well, we need to find an investor or youll be faced with the definite likelihood of having to shut down. Do you know anyone? Justin tried to listen but feeling Eleanors tight lips wrapping around his cock was more than a little distracting. He leaned forward, trying to make sure the lawyer didnt see anything but as he moved forward, his length slid deeper into her mouth. The tip touched the back of her throat and Justin shuddered. Well, Dave gave me permission to search for a new partner. He really thinks highly of you. Say, you two werentummyou know? As Eleanor eased him free from her tight mouth Justin replied, Nope, just him and the bartender. Justins jaw dropped as Eleanor sucked him deep into her mouth again, all the way to her throat. Are you sure youre okay? the lawyer asked. He was staring at the sweat Justin knew was beading across his forehead.

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Yeah, Justa little warm inhere. Justin tried to focus. He wiped the perspiration away and blinked rapidly a few times. He could feel the heat radiating off her body as it became hot with desire and he sighed as she let a small drip of her saliva slip down his shaft. He closed his eyes, imagining his cock was within her pussy. She grabbed his thigh, digging in with her nails, and deep-throated him. A deep, growling moan echoed through Eleanors body and rumbled its way to his balls. Her tongue flicked at the small drop of essence building within him. Whats that noise? the lawyer asked. Its my stomach. Justin began panting. He was losing control. The lawyer looked at him, bewildered. You coming down with the flu or something? You seem preoccupied. Justin choked. He was coming all right, just not down with the flu. He had a bad case of Eleanor. Eleanor began fondling his sac and sucking faster and he knew he was close. He could feel the tightening in his balls, and the head of his cock was swelling. Justin set both hands on the bar and closed his eyes. The lawyer stood staring as Justin face, contorted and reddened. The guys wide-eyed expression revealed his thoughts. HES GONNA EXPLODE! And he did. His seed sprayed within Eleanors mouth and he felt her throat move as she swallowed. Her moan of pleasure echoed under the bar. What the yelled the lawyer. Eleanor grabbed her purse and pulled herself out of her nook beneath the bar. She stood up, an enigmatic and impish little smile on her face. Licking her lips, she opened her purse, and found a mint that she calmly popped into her mouth. She kissed Justin on the cheek, smiled charmingly at the lawyer and strolled out the door, humming a few bars of her favorite Shania Twain song.

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Lunch break, Justin said, zipping up his pants.

*****
It was much later when Justin sat in the bar, finally alone. He liked the feel of the place. It was him. Dave let him run the bar the way he wanted and he had a group of regulars that came every weekend. Hed made some good friends. He didnt want to shut it down, but the sad truth was that he couldnt afford to keep it running by himself. It was a problem that turned itself over and over inside his head. Dave might have had an overactive libido but he never questioned Justins decisions and theyd made some pretty good money. Justin stood up and started for the door. He looked back, turned the lights off and left.

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Chapter 10
The remaining weekdays passed agonizingly slowly for Justin. He was eagerly waiting for Saturday and a break from reality. His date with Eleanor would be relaxing in two ways. One, a time to get away and forget his troubles. The other was to relieve the pent up sexual tensions. More the latter of the two, he hoped. Chinese, huh? Justin listened at his cell phone, stuck in traffic. He could tell that Eleanor felt bad asking him to come all the way out to her place to pick her up and drive back through the traffic. Why dont we just eat in? I like the idea of eating out, Justin thought to himself. Okay, said Eleanor. Sounds good. Ill meet you at your place? If you like, Ill pick up a couple of DVDs and we can kick back and veg out. He hoped Eleanor had other plans too, but this would be just fine. Chinese and some movies, hmm, sounds like a plan. You know where I live, right? he asked. Yes, you gave me the directions, remember? Ill just throw on some jeans and a T-shirt. Dont get dressed on my account. You can come wearing nothing for all I care. Justin smiled as he flirted on the phone. Youre terrible, and I love it. Now you go home and tidy the place up. If I know men its probably trashed.

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Okay. You drive safe babe, Ill meet you there inMOVE YOUR ASS MOTHER FUC...umm, sorry, traffic words. See you soon. Remember, underwears optional.

*****
Men. Eleanor smiled to herself thinking underwear was pretty much optional all the time anyway. Not that shed ever forgo the option, of course. Well, all right, perhaps she should amend that thought. Maybe just for tonight It was a busy night at her local video rental store, and Eleanor pushed through the doors into a well-lit and crowded place, full of parents fighting over the latest animated feature, and more than a few singles eyeing the latest releases. Hmm. What would Justin like to see? The seam of her jeans grazed her bare pussy as she walked, sending a little tingle of excitement through her. Or maybe it was just the ever-present thought of her man that was doing it. Her man. Just the sound of it was enough to get her hot, and leaving off her underwear had been a rash act of folly that she was now going to pay for. With each and every step. She peeked over someones shoulder and checked out the first rack of DVDs. Mostly romances, they were ones shed wanted to see, but had never gotten around to it. And come to think of it, Justin probably wouldnt go crazy over the thought of sharing his date with Hugh Jackman. For a blissful second, Eleanor let her mind dance over the idea of a three way. Herself, Justin and Hugh Jackman. Her eyes crossed, and she immediately dismissed the notion. She could barely handle Justin in bed. How the hell could she figure out what to do with

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two of them? However, she did permit a very naughty grin to slide across her face. She idly wandered down the drama aisle and found herself in the action/drama section. Aha. Schwarzenegger. Lots of guns and testosterone for Justin, and a nice chest for her. Not to mention the accent. ThereTotal Recall. That was a sure-fire winner. Great story, lots of blood and guts, and Sharon Stone being offed by the big guy. Consider this a divorce! Eleanor quoted one of her favorite lines. She tucked it under her arm and continued her stroll. The comedy aisle was relatively quiet, and she headed that way, pausing as she reached the clearly marked Adult section tucked away at the back of the store. What the hell? Might as well take a quick look around. Emmanuelle. Hmm. There certainly seemed to be a lot of her movies. And a lot of her too. Eleanor firmly put that one back into its slot. She noticed a large number of titles featuring someone by the name of Jon Dough splashed across the covers. God, that guy had a chest not unlike Justins. She pulled it off the shelf and stared, running her fingertips absently over the picture of the man improbably flaunting his muscles in front of some kind of elegant statuary. She assumed the rest of him was equally well endowed, but of course that was impossible to tell, since his crotch was hidden by a teased blonde head attached to a curvaceous and clearly nude body. She sighed.

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A figure walked smack into her and she dropped the DVDs. They hit the floor with a thunk and burst open. Christ, Im sorryEleanor? Eleanor? Oh shit. Marsha. Jeez, Elly, I didnt see you, honest to God. Im so sorry. Did I hurt you? What a surprise running into you here. Marsha bent to retrieve Eleanors fallen DVDs and put them back in their cases. She looked at the cover, and then back up at Eleanor with a grin. At that moment, Eleanor could hear the Fates cackling at her. Three old women, somewhere in the land of the gods, chuckling and sniggering as she faced her gossipy friend from the office. She closed her eyes and made an obscene mental gesture in their direction. They obviously failed to take the hint, because when she opened her eyes again, she was still in the video store, still in the Adult section, and still facing a very curious Marsha. Blazing Paddles? Marshas eyebrows rose and she glanced around at the shelf next to Eleanor. Deep Impact? Diabolical Demands? Princess of Pain? Eleanor, I never would have guessed. A snicker followed her comments. Eleanor could feel her cheeks burn redder than a hot plate. No, no, Marsha, she stuttered as she shoved the erotic DVD back on the rack upside down. I was just looking. I wouldntI never Marsha grinned widely. Honey, you should. Some of these are priceless. How about this one? She passed a copy of Midgets Like Sex Too over to Eleanor who stared at it like it was a poisonous snake.

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She clutched Arnold Schwarzenegger to her chest. I think Ill just stick with this one. She backed away, trying to slow her heartbeat and breathe, dammit. Breathe. No? Pity. That one was a gas. Never mind, Elly, at least you know theyre here. Taking pity on her, Marsha smiled comfortingly. Dont sweat it, hon. Im not about to yak to anyone. Theyd never believe me anyway. Our own calm, cool, collected Elly checking out the porno section. She snorted. Theyd think Id been drinking. She paused. Again. I have to goI should really Eleanor wondered if her brain would ever coordinate with her mouth again. Marsha grinned. Go, honey. Dont mind me. I think Ill stay and browse a bit. Damned if Harry didnt get all hot and bothered last time I picked up one of these puppies. Her eyes lit up and she reached over Eleanors shoulder. Now heres one Ive missedJust Watch Me. Hmmthat ought to start Harrys engine tonight. She winked at Eleanor and shooed her off, and Eleanor was only too happy to go. Gnight, then. Um, have a good evening. Oh I will, Elly, I will. You too, hon. After that little episode, Eleanor wondered if shed ever have a good night again, let alone be able to face Marsha at the office. She ran. Passing the comedy shelf, she swiped the first thing she saw that looked innocent enough, Youve Got Mail. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Well, then, that was a cute film, just enough comedy for Justin and a little romance for her. Sighing, she checked them out and hurried to her car, slipping into her seat and slamming the door shut, waiting a moment for her cheeks to cool and her heart rate to settle back down to somewhere approaching human.

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She rested her hands on the steering wheel and laid her hot forehead against them. Dear God. That had been one of the most embarrassing moments of her entire life. Part of her wanted to just drive home and slink back into her safe little cocoon. What the hell was she doing, anyway? Renting DVDs and going to a mans apartment to watch them with the full intention of having hot and sweaty sex with him shortly thereafter. At least she hoped it would be hot and sweaty. And therein lay the heart of her problem. She wanted to have hot and sweaty sex. With Justin. He made her want things shed never imagined she could want. Like taking him in her mouth. Like doing obscene things to zucchinis in the hope that hed enjoy what shed learned. Hed come into her life like a wild wind, shaking her out of her complacency, and making her face the fact that her hormones were still functioning very nicely, thank you, and now wanted to come out and play. A lot. She sighed. She had another worry too; try though she might to shove it to the back of her mind. In the last couple of days, shed been in touch with her mutual fund manager, and shed done something she wasnt sure Justin would approve of. Shed bought into his bar. The Vale Preston financial genes bred true, she supposed. Even though she was a graphic artist, she had no hesitation in budgeting her income wisely and investing the rest. Over the past few years, she had amassed stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and a portfolio that would make a Wall Street stockbroker weep with envy. Shed avoided the dotcom crashes, weathered various political upheavals, and just let the money sit there.

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She seldom thought about it. It was just another part of her life that held little importance next to doing what she loved most. Sure, it meant she had few money worries, but it was pretty far down the scale of things next to her artwork. And Justin. Eleanor sighed, and reached for the ignition. She would have to tell him, and shed rather he heard it from her than his lawyers. But not tonight. Tonight, she wanted him. All of him. She wanted a night that would blow her brain out of her ears then suck it back in again upside down. They could worry about business and money and legal stuff later. After the loving. And the hot and sweaty bits. Looong after. She glanced at the directions scrawled on a scrap of paper and started the engine. She was hungry.

*****
Justin opened up his garage door and pulled the car in. Sitting in the car for a minute he looked around at his wide array of beer and drinking calendars and posters scattered across the garage walls. Over half were semi and totally nude models. Hmm, better not show her this part. He unlocked the door and walked in. Looking around with his hands full of bags of Chinese food, Justin walked down the hall to the kitchen. Hmm, this may take a little ingenuity. He walked back to the garage, grabbed a small hand-truck and set an empty computer box from the garage on it. Walking from room to room, he picked up the stray clothes, pizza boxes, candy wrappers, beer bottles, Playboy magazines and pretzels off the floor and furniture. He tried to pick up all he could and pushed the box and cart into the garage.
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The kitchen was in pretty good shape except for the empty Lucky Charms box and the few half-eaten bowls of cereal in the sink. He quickly rinsed them off and set them in the dishwasher. He got out two large plates, two wineglasses and miscellaneous silverware and set up everything on the dining room table. The bartending had made him pretty good with his hands. He rummaged through the mail on the table and stacked it on the small counter in front of the phone in the kitchen. Hmm, messages. This is Dave. Dudethanks for meeting with the lawyer. Ill get back with you tomorrow afternoon. I have some good news. Later. Hello, Justin, this is Nikkis friend, Cindy. You never called me back so I thought Id give you a call and Delete. Justinits Eleanor. I seem to be hungry again. Her throaty chuckle filled the room. Just got off the freeway. Ill be getting off route 205 in a few minutes. So Ill be at your place in aboutasshole, damn idiot cut me off, welland the same to you too. Whoops, sorry. Be ready. Yikes. Justin hurried to the bedroom and with lightning fast speed he got the sheets and covers pulled up and smoothed out and the pillows assembled in a nice orderly fashion. He kicked his underwear and two-day-old socks under the bed and did a quick evaluation. Condoms? He opened the drawer in the nightstand and saw he had a few left. Whew, that would have sucked. A sudden rush of blood filled Justins body as he thought about Eleanor. What was her secret? Why did she affect him? Would she mind a tongue bath?

*****
Within minutes, Eleanor raised her hand to knock on the door of Justins condo. She paused and glanced around her.

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The surroundings were pleasant and well maintained. Highbrow but not awesomely up-market. Just a nice-looking, conservative complex. Nothing to say that within an hour or so, if she was lucky, there would be some fabulously wonderful sex going on behind the nondescript door. She wondered if the walls were thick enough to muffle her screams. Because she wanted to scream very badly. And she hadnt even gotten inside yet. It was a combination of nerves, that damn video store incident, and the fact that her jeans were now massaging a rather aroused piece of personal flesh that wanted a hell of a lot more than denim rubbing up against it. She clutched her DVDs and her purse against her body, trying to stop her hand from shaking. What was the matter with her? It was all about the sex, right? It certainly wasnt about the fact that just thinking about the man inside was making her weak at the knees. Or that remembering his eyes and his shoulders was sending flutters through her body and a little shudder to her heart. She was past the point of a girlish crush, and yet shed certainly never felt quite like this before. Her dates, what few of them thered been recently, had been exercises in controlled amusement, light conversation, and the occasional goodnight kiss. Eleanor could not recall any date ever where shed been inclined to strip the man naked. With her teeth. But Justin did that to her. All that and more. She sighed, sucked in her stomach, and knocked on the door.

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Chapter 11
Knock, knock. Come on in, Ill be there in a second! Justin yelled. Eleanor turned the knob and stepped into the open living room. Shutting the door behind her, she looked around. It was typical male decorating with minimal fluff and a nice rustic feel. There was a brick fireplace with a small fire in it and a loveseat with a matching L-shaped couch. In front of the couch was a nice oak coffee table, a few magazines scattered on its surface, just begging for feet to be rested on it. She kicked off her shoes and glanced at the magazines on the table. Car and Driver, Playboy and Maxim. Men, she thought. Looking up, she noticed Justins prized possession. A huge, flat screen TV. Must have been almost seven feet wide. God, Ahnuld was going to look pretty terrific on that. Eleanor heard Justin in the adjacent room and slowly walked down the hallway. She peeked into his room and saw him standing in only his underwear. Biting her lip, she watched as he pulled a pair of nice sweats up his legs. He turned and jerked up seeing her staring at him. Hey, babe, let me throw a shirt on. I am sorry, I wanted to make the place presentable. Eleanor grinned. Dont put a shirt on because of me. She adored seeing his chest and the way it flexed as he moved. Hey, I owe you something. Justin stood up, and pulled his hair back with his hands as the muscles of his arms and upper body rippled to Eleanors definite admiration. You do?
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Yep, did you do what I asked? Confused, Eleanor stood in the doorway with a puzzled look on her face. Justin walked toward her, his bare chest expanding as his lungs filled with a deep breath. He closed the distance between them. She backed up against the hallway wall and Justin crushed her body to his. Dropping the movies yet again, Eleanor tried to catch her breath as Justin smothered her lips and mouth with his. Her knees buckled and Justin moved to her ear, whispering in a deep harsh voice, I missed you. I wanted you so bad I couldnt stand the thought of waiting another minute to devour you. His hands pushed against her hips and up her body to cup her firm breasts. Dwarfed in his large hands, they ached as he groped at her while biting her earlobe and breathing hot words against her neck. Eleanor was overwhelmed, turned on, aching, and ready. She stood motionless against the wall, fighting the need to bite back. Anyplace at all. Like that chest. Or his neck. God, this man brought out the vampire in her. Justin pulled away, letting Eleanor catch her breath. She looked up his wide muscular chest to his chin and then the deep, chocolate brown of his eyes. The hallway had very little light but his eyes pierced through the darkness and stared into hers. She shivered. Justin grabbed her hips and turned her toward the wall. Eleanor put her hands on either side of her head and felt the coolness of the plaster beneath them. Justin again pressed against her, letting her feel the heat from his body against hers. Breathing in the fragrance of her hair, Justin moaned softly then nuzzled into her. You know how you drive me crazy, dont you? Feeling trapped and frustrated, Eleanor replied, Really? I had no idea. What else do I do for you? The words sounded snide, but her voice was low and husky with desire.
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Leaning harder against her ass, Justin pressed his now erect cock along the split of her cheeks. Eleanor closed her eyes and smiled, accepting how wonderful he made her feel. The dampness between her legs suddenly began to burn like fire. Justin set his hands on the front of her belly and slowly dragged them up her body. Pulling Eleanors shirt along with them, he cupped her breasts in his hands, letting her nipples poke between his fingers. A deep moan echoed from Eleanor as she felt her jeans soak through between her thighs. This mans simplest touch stirred her. The locks of her red hair fell forward as she gazed downward, seeing her breasts filling Justins handsher nipples tight and swollen between his fingers. Justin groaned, pulling her body into his. Their curves fit together like the pieces of a puzzle, tight and perfect. Justins hands fell to Eleanors waist and around to the front of her jeans. She wanted to beg him to rip them down and fuck her right there, but she melted and became silent except for the moans and gasps of air. She would let him set the pace. Unfastening her jeans, Justin made a yummy sound that vibrated through Eleanors entire body and made her knees buckle. With one hand he held her against him while caressing her chest and bosom. The other hand tugged down on her zipper and loosened the confinements of the tight denim. With gentleness his hand slid inside her pants. Her heat and wetness showed him the way. Justin kissed her shoulder and neck, leaning into her again as his hand ventured downward. Eleanor panted and tried to squirm away as Justin teased at her pussy with his fingers. He wasnt going to plunge his rough finger into her soft, juicy pussy. Like the true romantic he was, he wanted to tease it. To toy and pinch at the lips
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before delving into the succulent bounty of her wine. It was like he wanted to savor the flavor. His finger touched the now engorged tip of her clit, causing her to shudder. You arent playing fair, Justin, Eleanor whispered. Oh and you coming to the bar and giving me an incredible blow-job then leaving is fair? Justin growled as he pushed her pants down and cupped her hot, wet pussy. Ive been wanting to get even ever since. Thinking of ways to just take you. Ive had a hard-on every night. The thought of Justins hard-on made Eleanor hunger and ache even more. Justin glided his finger into the tight opening of Eleanors pussy. Closing her eyes, Eleanor felt herself giving in to his seduction. She opened her legs a little wider to help him while his finger explored her. His constant rubbing on her breasts, nipples and belly made her almost climax. Damn jeansI like the way they hug your fine ass but they are too confining. Justin blew a burst of air into Eleanors ear and tugged at her jeans from the back. They fell to her knees and the juices from her excitement trickled down the hot flesh of her inner thighs. Justins bare stomach burned against Eleanor and his stiff cock pressed into the small of her back. If he were out of those damn sweats shed be fucking him right now. Why was he tormenting her with this fingering tease? God, she wanted him bad. Justin dipped his finger deep inside of her. The slippery flesh was anointing his hand with her honey. Eleanor couldnt handle much more. Her body bucked and she felt her clit throb. She knew his touch excited her but it had never been like this. Nobody had done this to her in her life. Ever!

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She stood in the hallway of this mans house and relished a male bottle of testosterone fingering her to climax. After only one date. Justin bit her neck and thrust his body forward. His cock pressed into her back and his hand clamped onto her pussy. All the while his finger remained buried inside her. Justins thumb began to rub her clit with a constant circular movement. He knew what he was doing and could probably tell it had a great effect on her. If he couldnt, the squirming of her hips and her soaking pussy were certainly hanging out road signs of their own. Wildly turned-on woman ahead. Aching curves. Hungry shoulders. Slippery surface. Possible flood area. God above, she was feeling so damnedwanton. Eleanors fingernails scrabbled at the walls and Justin licked the back of her ear. His voice was deep and devilish. After dinner were going to fuck. Not like before. This time Im going to make you beg me to stop. His words slashed through her like hot lava. The thought alone made her cross over the edge. She wanted this man to take her. She wanted this man to control her. She wanted this man to fuck her right now. Eleanors head was spinning and Justins fingers were relentless in their quest to make her come for him. His desires were becoming strong enough to overtake any stray thoughts she might have had. Come for me, Eleanor, come for me. Justins voice was steady and she could almost feel his need. Along with the large throb in his pants. Eleanor reached back and grabbed his cock through the sweats. She vigorously stroked the bulge she found there and tried to pull his hard length away from his pants. Begging for him to violate her and set her free. She pushed with all her strength, forcing Justin backwards. Turning around, she yanked his sweats down. His cock sprang forward and Eleanor kicked her

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jeans away, jumping into Justins arms. Her legs wrapped around his hips, locking her ankles together. Justin staggered, grabbing her ass in his hands. Losing his balance they fell forward against the wall. With all his force he plunged into her hot, wet pussy, making Eleanor groan and come. The spasms of her orgasm massaged the length of Justins cock as he slid out then back into her. Their mouths were merged in a wet, tongue-savoring kiss. Their eyes were closed and each of them was lost in the ecstasy of the moment and the unbound passion they felt for each other. Oh, man, I cantoh man, this is fuckin incredible, Justin stammered as he tried to maintain control. Their bodies hit against the wall with loud rhythmic thumps. Eleanors hands were wrapped around his neck, holding her body up. Her pelvis was being hammered by Justins hard, driving thrusts. He could sense her peaking again. Their hearts pounded against each other as he panted harshly, trying to hold back. Justin looked up and felt the veins in his neck throb. He groaned loudly. He loved how she smelled, the softness of her skin, the fire that scorched his soul every time he touched her. Eleanor licked the taut neck muscles as her pussy tightened around his swollen, throbbing cock. The shivering, spastic convulsions of her pussy were milking the seed that burned as it shot from within Justin when he engulfed her with the essence of his body. Over and over he felt himself blast within her. Justin staggered back, pulling his cock out of Eleanor. God, I m sorry. I didnt get a condom. I have a recent physical report. I had one done for the license at the bar. Its justbreastspussytightred hair! Mmmmhorny. Oh man, I m sorry. I just

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Justin, calm down. Its okay. Im on birth control pills. Ive been on them for a long time. Eleanors smile eased Justins fear a little. Why do you take birth control pills? I mean, you told me you werent, um, you know, the going-out-picking-up-guy-kinda-girl. Ever hear of endometriosis? Its a female thing and it sucks! I take them to keep my, er, monthly cycle regular. I didnt say anything and wanted the condom for safety and, well, be honest, dont you worry a little too? E.T. hates rubber-raincoats, but yes I understand. I have to tell you thoughyou feel much better without it. Damn, you are so fricking HOT inside! Thanks to you. Eleanor blushed at Justin and smiled. She picked her jeans up and Justin grabbed them out of her hands. You wont be needing these, he said as he tossed them into his bedroom. I like to see my dessert when eating dinner. Here, put this T-shirt on. Its my favorite. TOOL. It figures. Eleanor chuckled. Her cheeks cooled and she pulled the large black shirt over her head as they walked into the kitchen to get the food ready.

*****
Justin leaned over the coffee table and watched the movie with Eleanor, mumbling as he ate. Their conversation drifted through a variety of topics and then turned to the bar and the problems with Dave. Justin, did you ever think about selling food? You know sandwiches, maybe deli things, snacks and stuff? Eleanor asked the question casually, trying to input a few business ideas while she mustered up some courage to tell him her secret.

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In a bar? Nawwwww. I sell drinks and have bands and let the couples have a good time. Didnt you have fun when you went that night? Eleanor hesitated, choosing her words carefully. It is a great nightclub, honey. You and Dave have built a wonderful place. People there are entertained, have fun and meet others while theyre at it. Look at us. She grinned. I just wondered if you opened up at five or six in the evening and added some place to eat, whether youd get a dinner crowd there that would stay and party for the rest of the night. Sort of a get-it-all-in-one-place kind of deal. It doesnt really pick up until gone eight at night you said. Its just a thought You worry about your job, babe, Ill take care of the club. Justin didnt want to sound surly but he did think his nightclub was one of the better places. He knew nothing about the food business. They made a good profit from the club, or had until Dave had fucked things up, and Justin figured that the old saying was true in this case. If it aint broke, dont fix it. He was going to have enough on his plate straightening out Daves frickin mess without starting to think about cold cuts. Eleanor might be right in some ways, but Justins ego where his business was concerned didnt want to hear it. He didnt want to talk about work anyway. This was his night off. He was more interested in talking about really important things. Like sex.

*****
They sat watching Tom and Meg get all mushy and lovey-dovey in Youve Got Mail and munched on more than their fair share of chow mien and sweet and sour pork. Oh, God. Are you crying, Eleanor? Be quiet, you. It was the dog that got me. He was really cuteand Im so happy they all ended up together. She sniffed.

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She didnt even know about the Godfather. I like Meg Ryan, dont get me wrong, shes a definite hotty, butoh never mind. Justin rustled through the pillows on the floor finding Total Recall. Ahnuld, Ill be back. He stood, flexing his chest and trying his best to sound like Schwarzenegger. He was terrible at impressions. I love the part where he says, Consider this a divorce. Me too. Eleanor laughed as Justin uncannily quoted her own favorite line. Justin set the DVD into the player and sat back on the couch as he grabbed the remote and hit play. Eleanor snuggled up beside him in her loose T-shirt. They waited through the usual FBI warnings, the endless nonsense that seemed to take up a large part of the DVD and then, finally, the movie started. In unison they both said Cumming at You? Eleanors mind spun and she locked on the moment shed spilled out those damn DVDs in the video store. Shit. I wonder what you had in mind with this movie? Justin smirked as he winked at Eleanor. Oh God. I must have put this one in the wrong cover when I ran into Marsha. I can imagine some guy looking for porn and finding Ahnuld. She tried to hide her embarrassment, then caught Justins eye. They both laughed. There was no hope for it. They just had to sit there and comment on the movie as it played. Those cant be real. They look like two cantaloupes. Justin raised an eyebrow as the woman wrapped her breasts around the male stars deformed cock.

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Definitely not real. See how theyre absolutely not moving with the rest of her? They dont squish, either. Dead giveaway. Eleanor pondered the improbably huge breasts and looked for scars. Whoever the plastic surgeon was, hed been very good. She couldnt see any at all. Of course, with breasts the size of the Alps, small things like scars were probably hidden deep within some valley someplace. Now the scene changed and it was, apparently, the hero and heroine on the screen. The man was actually pretty good looking, if you ignored a cock the size of a small skyscraper, and the woman was more human in her proportions and had a nice shape to her. Eleanor had no idea why they should be naked in the middle of some construction site someplace, but figured the guy might be using his cock as a pile driver when not nailing the heroine. Sure wasnt any kind of Do-It-Yourself show shed ever seen. Anyway, the plot was immaterial. The purpose of the movie was to arouse. To titillate. And yeah, it was working. Eleanor snuggled next to Justin and ran her fingers across his chest as they watched the movie. She noticed that this particular scene was getting to him, too. His sweatpants seemed to get stretched in the crotch area. She glanced up at him and saw he was grinning as he watched the movie. She looked up at the screen and saw the woman lowering her head down to the mans cock. Suddenly, Eleanor got hungry. She ran her fingers along the waistband of Justins sweats and lifted them up and over his semi-hard cock. Lowering her head to his lap, Eleanor took the tip between her lips and tasted the slight residue from before. Gently taking more into her mouth she heard Justin moan softly. Justin rested his hand on Eleanors back, rubbing up and down as he grew within her mouth. He looked at the screen again, seeing what Eleanor saw. The

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woman on the screen deep-throating the male star. She could feel Justins cock touching the back of her mouth. Man, this is interactive TV if I ever saw it, Justin quipped, closing his eyes as she continued to pleasure them both. I want to show you something I learnedjust for you. A wicked grin crossed Eleanors face as she reached over to grab her purse. Justin sat motionless with a hard-on and a smile as he watched her fumbling with something. Eleanor took a condom out and opened the package. She put it between her lips and lowered her head back down to Justins long cock. She was determined to do this right. Her hours spent slaving over hapless zucchini would not be for waste. As her mouth opened, the rubber set atop his cock. With a slow downward glide, Eleanor slid the condom over his shaft. The tightness of the condom and the feel of the latex and her lips made Justin moan. Her practice had not gone to waste. On her first try, she had sheathed Justins sword. Pulling her mouth off his cock, she made a spitting sound, not fond of the taste of latex. SUCCESS, she shouted. And on my first try with a live zucchini. Erman. Justin applauded. Hed never been covered in this way before. As much fun as it was, though, he wanted to feel her flesh for real. He noticed her eyeing the couple in the movie who were now beginning to do some serious fucking. Not to be outdone, she decided it was her time to shine. I think its our turn. She grabbed the loose tip of the condom and tried to pull it off.

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Justins eyes bulged and his cock stretched until his balls were tightened. Eleanor lost her grip and the tip slipped from her fingers. A large SNAP echoed through the room and Justins eyes began to water. Um, ouch? Justin winced and rolled the condom off his now red cock. Eleanor felt for him, guilt making her wince as well. But then she started to giggle. It was pretty funny. Aw, let me kiss E.T. and make him all better. With an evil look she continued, But not with my mouth. I want to kiss him with these lips. She slid her hand downward beneath the shirt and stopped at the parting of her thighs. She got up from the couch next to Justin and pulled his sweats down his legs. She yanked her T-shirt up over her head and stood naked before him. Justins eyes were wide and his cock was hard. The perfect mix for some good sex. Eleanor turned around, glanced at the couple on the screen, and leaned back against Justin. Her ass pressed against his cock and the smooth skin of her back brushed against his chest. Her long locks of red hair flowed between them. Justin reached forward, grabbing her breasts and squeezing then. Moaning, Eleanor plunged her hand between her legs and grabbed the head of his cock. Rolling the head in her palm she leaned close to him so that his length rested between the lips of her wet pussy. She looked down and saw a trickle of anticipation seep from Justins cock. She licked her palm and rubbed it against the smooth head of it. Justin closed his eyes, letting her have her way with him. Mmm, I want to feel your cock inside me again, Eleanor said huskily. You want to fuck me, Justin? Like theyre doing in the movie? I dont care. Ill do whatever you want. You are so incredible. Justin sounded like he was in a daze. Their hearts were racing in tandem.

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Pushing the head lower, Eleanor felt the tip spread the opening of her pussy. She too felt dazed, wanting to feel him deep within her again. Lowering her hips, Justins firm cock slid into her. The pleasure made her moan and Justin placed his hands on her round ass as she faced away from. Turn around. I want to see your face, Justin asked. With a pop, he left her tight body. Straddling him, Eleanor lowered back down. She grabbed his cock again and placed it at her opening. This time as she lowered herself down the length of his hard shaft she saw how his face contorted from the pleasure. Eleanor kissed his forehead and held him tight, as the slow rhythm of their sex became the background music to their own private movie. Justin nuzzled into her breasts, kissing and sucking the nipples that protruded outward, begging for attention. His hands held the cheeks of her ass as she rode him like a bull machine. The rolling of her hips stretched her pussy. This was different than before. It had more feeling. Instead of just sex, they were making love. It was more intimate, more intense in a way she appreciated on different levels, because it felt as if they were connecting in more ways then one. Like a slow body massage Justin was in and out of her pussy. He took forever and she loved every minute of his slow, penetrating caress of her inner walls. There was no hurry. Her red hair fell between them and he reached his hand up, pulling it to one side. Her face was burning and Justin kissed her so gently that their lips almost didnt touch. His mouth brushed her flesh as she sat suddenly motionless, with his full length buried in her. The only movement was the beating of his heart and the pulse from the veins of his cock within her. He felt her cheeks with his hand and his fingertips touched her red lips. Eleanor, eyes closed, sucked the tips of his fingers and fell backwards. Almost
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unconscious to anything but him, her body was burning, needing him to soothe her. Her pelvis tilted as she lay back.

*****
The stretching of his cock made Justin moan. He saw her nipples pointing to the stars as she leaned back. Forced upward, Justins hard, throbbing, cock was being strained as he tried to fondle her nipples. Grasping her shoulders, Justin pulled Eleanor back upright and felt the lips of her pussy mold to the base of his cock. Kissing her, he realized the splendor of this woman. The simple way she seduced his mind and body. With her wavy red hair, the supple breasts, the perfect ass and the sweet, sweet heaven between her thighs, she had captivated him. Eleanor held Justins face with both hands. She felt the rough stubble of the days growth on his strong, masculine chin. She stared deep into his eyes and kissed him. She tightened her muscles as she moved her torso up and down, up and down, never unlocking her stare into his eyes. Her breath was quickening, as were her movements along the length of his glorious shaft. She was whispering in bliss, and he made out the words, Come for me, Justin, come for me. Justins cock swelled, having never heard a woman beg him to come. His eyes fluttered as she tightened her grip around him with the muscles of her already tight pussy. A small trickle of drool eased down Eleanors open mouth and she licked it away. Justin felt the wetness of her juices burning along his balls. Good God, this woman is on fire. He held his hands on her ass, letting her guide the movement, but he wanted to plunge himself deeper and harder. Her eyes struggled to stay open. Eleanor again was on the brink of ecstasy.

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Shaking and trying to control himself, Justin panted, Oh damn, I cant hold it anymore. Squeezing her inner muscles around him, Eleanor leaned into Justin and blew in his ear. Justin groaned, totally losing it. Eleanor let a soft, deep moan out and whispered, Oh, Justin, Im coming, oh, mmm, Im coming. With a shuddering burst, Justin felt himself erupt within her. A smile widened across his face as he shared the ultimate pleasure with this woman who fell apart in his arms. This was how sex was supposed to feel. A mutual gift for each of them. Eleanor kissed Justins forehead and rested her arms around his neck.

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Chapter 12
The loud slapping sound of flesh on flesh echoed through the morning air in the bedroom. A muffled moan and soft stifled scream could be heard. The grunting of a male voice, heavy breathing and a headboard hitting a wall were also present. Eleanors hands grasped at the sheets and her whitened knuckles held on for dear life as Justin pounded her from behind. His face was red and had a wide smile across it. He was in heaven. Turning her head on the pillow, Eleanor felt a tear trickle down her cheek and was beyond bliss as she had just come yet again. Her legs were weak and she was spent from a night of intense pleasures beyond her wildest fantasies. Justin had become her erotic world come to life. He couldnt get enough of her, it seemed. Over and over he plunged deep into her as if searching for her womb. His glorious cock was reddened from the night of sex and he was about to come again. Justin's muscles were straining and he groaned in ecstasy. Eleanors face flushed and she smiled the smile of a woman feeling her man climax within her. Collapsing on top of her, Justin tried to push his weight off of her, but his arms were weakened by the night. Okay. You win, Justin muttered, finally finding the strength to flop onto his back. I knew I would. Eleanor smirked as she lay on her stomach and winked at him. He reached over and smacked her round and exhausted ass. I think Im dried up. Done. Overdone even.
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Eleanor reached over and grasped Justins limp cock. Aww, poor E.T. is all tuckered out. Does he need a little mouth-to-mouth resuscitation? God, no! Justin laughed. I think E.T. is dehydrated. Perhaps he could use some coffee? Ouch. Eleanor giggled, tiredly. Well, I dont know about E.T., but I sure could She slid limply from the bed and surveyed the wreckage. God, talk about burning up the sheets. Come to think of it, where the hell were the sheets? She stooped to the floor and found something that looked like it might have been a sheet in a previous life. Wrapping it around herself, she grinned at the sated lump of gorgeous male flesh flopped bonelessly in front of her. She licked her lips. Dont even think about it, moaned Justin. I never thought Id ever say this, but Im too tuckered out to get it up. He winced. Shit. What am I saying? What have you done to me, woman? Eleanor, whose legs were none too steady, and whose body felt like it had gone the distance with a heavyweight champ, clasped her hands together over her head and did a rather weak little victory dance. The sheet fell off. Justin eyed her nakedness with a great deal of sleepy interest. Whatever you did to me, would you like to wait a few minutes and do it again? Eleanor laughed, her heart bursting inside her with some undefined emotion as this splendid male specimen lay there, ogling her, herEleanor Preston. It was joy incarnate, this feeling of heat and pleasure andandshe slowed her steps and grabbed the sheet again. God damn it all. Shed gone and fallen head over ass in love with him.

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Struggling to wrap herself up, she backed away from the bed. I think right now a shower is in order. If you want to rest, Ill go clean up and then put coffee on Justin groaned and pushed himself into a seated position, muscles aching as he stretched. Nah, go ahead and shower. Ill do the coffee. Unless you want me to scrub your backor your frontor other things? His eyebrows waggled and his gorgeous eyes sparkled at her. Oh yeah, screamed her foolish body. Oh no, hollered her scared heart. Um, no. I think I need to take a breather here. She backed away even more and turned toward the bathroom. But hold that thought, she said over her shoulder. Justin simply grinned. You got it, babe.

*****
The sound of his shower running, and the knowledge that Eleanor was in it, naked, using his soap and his shampooshit, not my razor, puhleeeeezealong with the fragrance of brewing coffee soon restored Justins body to some kind of functioning order. He rubbed his hand across his stubbled chin and promised himself a close shave as soon as she was done, whether shed used the razor or not. Damned if he was going to leave beard burns on her thighs. Then, after a fortifying breakfast, well, okay, after a semi-nutritious breakfastif he could find those frickin pop-tartsthey could start discussing how they were going to spend the rest of the day. Justins fantasies perked merrily along with the coffee pot as he performed the main function of his gender. Foraged for food.

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Unfortunately, his rather X-rated visions ground to a serious halt when she emerged from her shower, freshly scrubbed, hair gleaming in long, wet tresses down her back, and a shy smile on her face. Damn. Shed put her clothes back on. They didnt figure in any of his fantasies, unless those tight jeans were in a pool around her ankles. Hi, she said with a little shy smile. Smells good. Mmm, yeah, you do. Eleanor giggled. I meant the coffee, doofus. Oh, sorry. Here Justin pushed a mug across the counter and nodded at the cream and sugar. God, you look good wet. Er, thanks. I think. Her green eyes twinkled at him over the rim of her mug, and then she shut her eyes and shuddered as the first sips of coffee disappeared. You make good coffee too. Is there anything you dont do well? Justins mouth opened to answer when a strident buzz sounded from across the room. Eleanors purse was apparently demanding attention. Damn. Who the hell could be calling me at this hour? She looked at Justin. Id better get it. Sorry He watched her silently as she crossed the kitchen, rummaged in her bag, and pulled out her cell phone. He could watch that fine ass for hours on end. Of course, hed prefer it without its tight covering of denim, but for right now, hed take what he could get. HelloJodi? Youre where? Eleanors voice had gone up an octave, and Justin realized that she must be talking to her sister. When? Why? Well, sure. I guess. Itll take me a little while She raised her eyes worriedly to Justin and shrugged her shoulders. Okay, hon. Stay put. Ill

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find you. The cell phone closed with a snap, and Eleanor picked up her coffee again, taking a long drink. She sighed. Damn, Justin, Im sorry. That was my sister, Jodi. Justin nodded, waiting for her to tell him the rest of it. His heart was already feeling a bit depressed, and his cock was getting the message that it might not be allowed out to play as early as hed hoped. Shes here, in the States. Yesterday she was in Paris and now shes home. Drat the girl. I love her to bits, but shes damned unpredictable. Shes the one who was in cooking school or something, right? Yeah, I guess you could call it that, muttered Eleanor. Shes finished her courses, but I thought she was staying on for a while. Now shes here. At the airport. Waiting for me. Her eyes traveled over Justins body and he saw heat behind the green gaze. Damn, damn and double damn. She bit her lip. In spite of his disappointment, he grinned. Yeah. He, male, could bring that look into his females eyes. It made him want to thump his chest, swing from something and offer her a banana. His banana. He loved it. No worries, babe. Weve got all the time in the world. But, Justin, theres something I need Honey, theres a lot of things I need, too. And you are involved in all of them. Mostly naked, I must add. Eleanor grinned. Oh yeah. Me too. She glanced at his kitchen clock. But dammit to hell, I have to go pick up Jodi. I know, babe. Go. Its okay. But I have to tell you that next time were gonna put our cell phones in the freezer or something. This is the second time those frickin things have shot our morning to hell and gone.

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No arguments from me. Eleanor grabbed her purse and located one of her shoes. The other seemed to have lodged itself behind a closet door. Neither could figure out how it got there. Justin, I Eleanor paused at Justins door. What can I say? Justin brushed her lips with his. How about that was the best night of my life, Justin. You are a god among men? She snickered. Well, sure. That was the best night of my life, Justin. Her lips returned his touch. You are truly a god among men, she breathed. She cupped his face with her hand and licked his lips. Shit. E.T. was getting ready to place that phone call. But nobody was gonna be home.

*****
You mean you havent told him? The screech was loud enough to rattle the windshield wipers of Eleanors car. She clenched her hands on the steering wheel and risked a brief glance over at her sister, who sat, stunned, in the passenger seat, surrounded by an assortment of bags bearing fancy Parisian logos. Well, dammit, Jo, I was going to, but I had to run out to the airport and pick up my sister. Jodi ignored the snide dig. Let me get this straight. You date this guy for less than a month, sink a considerable amount of money into his business, make plans to add on to itin a radical way, I might addand you havent bloody told him? Merde She shook her head in disgust, making her soft chestnut hair fly every which way around her pert features. Eleanors gaze softened as she focused on her driving. Look, Jodi. I havent even signed the final papers yet. The lawyers have put everything together, I met

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briefly with this Dave person Eleanor grimaced. Dave hadnt seemed impressed with her as an investor. Hed been too busy staring her right in the cleavage when he wasnt checking out her ass. She wondered at Justins loyalty to this guy. But then again, that was Justin. Dependable, solid, a friend one could count on being there when needed. It was part of why she loved him so. She buried the thought. No time to explore that kind of thing right now. As I was saying, I met with Dave and my attorneys, and its all set. Were signing papers on Tuesday. Im buying out Dave completely, which will give me a forty percent interest in the property, and majority ownership rights over the smaller empty space that adjoins the bar. And thats where you come in. Me? What the hell are you talking about? Jodis blue eyes widened. Eleanor couldnt help smiling. It wasnt often that she managed to catch her volatile sister off guard. Look, honey. Its simple. Justins bar does a great business. After about eight or nine oclock at night. She flicked her turn signal and took an exit off the highway. Hes got this fabulous space right next door which could be opened up into the bar. My idea is to offer something in that space that will bring customers by earliercatch the dinner crowd, and then let the music and the laughter pull them through into Justins place. It could be an excellent way of increasing income and customer presence. Sort of an all-in-one deal. See? Jodi shook her head. Nope. Eleanor sighed. Look, if youre not too tired, lets take a spin by and Ill show you. Its early, its Sunday, and I doubt therell be anyone around yet You mean like Justin, right?

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Well Eleanor gnawed her lip. She was dreading telling Justin about this, because she really wasnt sure what his reaction would be. It had to be done at the right time, and in the right way. Unfortunately, every time the right moment neared, he did something crazy, like touch her, and every single business thought flew out of her head. She sighed. Yeah, like Justin. Hes probably sleeping right now, and Id be with him, if not for you. She frowned at Jodi, who was remarkably unimpressed. Well, excuse me if I didnt realize that my previously-almost-virginal big sister, whose life up until now would make a nuns look like a bodice-ripping romance novel, happened to be humping some muscle-bound boy-toy. She snorted. He is notwell, he ishe does haveoh shit, Jodi. Hes no boy-toy. She knew her voice was wavering. And she knew her sister would hear it too. El. Youre serious about this guy, arent you? There was a quiet surprise in Jodis voice. Um, yeah. Yes, I rather think I am. And it scares the crap out of me. Along with this whole money thing. But I couldnt let him face it alone, could I? Not feeling the way I do about him And exactly how is that, honey? Eleanor was spared having to answer, as she drew the car to the curb in front of Justins bar. Here. Take a look and tell me what you think. Jodi opened the door and slid out onto the pavement, stretching her arms and taking a good hard look around her at the neighborhood. Eleanor did the same. Even though she had made sure that her legal advisors had checked into the local traffic patterns, parking and licensing permits, and

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done all the other due diligence that earned them their exorbitant retainers, she tried to see it through Jodis eyes. Can you see it, Jo? Eleanor struggled for words. Heres the bar, and of course at night its brightly lit. The large sign that announced The Mating Place was clean, neat and elegantly lettered on old wood above the smoked glass doors. And here She walked a few steps and stood next to a storefront that was boarded over. Once upon a time it had been a meat market of some sort. Heres the adjacent property. Now Eleanor paced, getting involved in her vision of what she wanted to do. Its empty, licenses are already being applied for, and the entire set up is just perfect for what I have in mind. Which is? prompted Jodi. Okay. Imagine this. A cozy snack bar, offering deli stuff and an assortment of those French nibble thingies. Jodi winced as Eleanor tried to explain things she knew nothing about. Maybe even some desserts too. Nothing huge, nothing requiring a large staff of chefs and sous chefs, or whatever, but enough to provide a sandwich or something and get customers feeling mellow and well fed. At which point theyll be lured by the sound of music into the bar next door. "Maybe we can have a karaoke night or something?" Jodi giggled. Uh, we want to lure them in, not send them running for the hills. Eleanor frowned. Hmmm. Good point. May have to rethink the karaoke thing Unfazed, Eleanor continued. Anyway, the thing is, they can get it all in one location. Parking is free out back of the building, and they can grab a light meal

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or some munchies, and spend the rest of their night, along with lots of money, at Justins. Whats the capacity? Jodis question fired out at Eleanor, who turned, recognizing that a transatlantic flight, a long wait for her ride, and God knew how many hours without sleep, hadnt dulled Jodis sharp eyes or her active brain. She reeled off the figures shed learned from the paperwork, and stood back, letting Jodi think. When her sister turned back with the beginnings of a smile on her full lips, Eleanor heaved a sigh of relief. So my thoughts were running along the lines of you managing it, hon. Youve got the training and the knowledge in the food industry, and the skills from the Cordon Bleu to back you up. Id be the behindthe-scenes accountant. And Id eat for free, of course She grinned. You know, El, it just could work. And yeah, Im just the girl to make sure it does.

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Chapter 13
The next forty-eight hours were a nightmare for Eleanor. She was desperate to reach Justin and tell him the news at the earliest possible opportunity. As soon as Jodi and her baggage got settled into Eleanors spare room which took endless trips to the car and lots of oohing and aahing over seductive French lingerieEleanor was on the phone to him. Hey. Youve reached Justin. Or at least his machine. Leave a message. Shit, shit and double shit. Where the hell was he? She hated leaving messages. As soon as shed hung up, the phone rang, and Eleanor ran like it was a fire alarm. Hello? Hi, Eleanor. How are you, dear? God. It was her father. Um, fine thanks, Dad. How are you and Mom? Just fine, dear. I hear Jodis back from France. Youll both be coming for dinner tonight, of course? Her fathers voice was friendly, cool, and as determined as a Rottweiler with a bone. Well, actually Dad She tapered off. An invitation to dinner at Preston House was tantamount to God calling and saying that shed better get her ass up to Heaven real quick, since St. Peter was holding the gates and he wasnt going to wait forever. Um, sure. What time? Jodi walked in and wrinkled her nose just as Eleanor hung up the phone. Dont tell me. Were commanded to make an appearance before the parents. To assure them that were both still alive, kicking, and surviving even though we havent knuckled under to Dads wishes and gone into Preston Industries.

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Eleanor blew a lock of hair out of her eyes. Got it in one. You reach Justin yet? Eleanor was already hitting the redial button. Come on, honey, be thereplease be there The voice mail clicked on. Goddamit. Justin, its Eleanor. I really need to talk to you. Call me? I have to go to dinner with the folks tonight. And believe me, if I didnt have to I wouldnt, but I have no choice. I should be back around ten or so Jodi sighed. Sometimes life sucks, doesnt it? All this technology and you still cant reach the guy. He must be something, though, El. Hes got your knickers in a hell of a twist, hasnt he? Eleanor suppressed a grin, thinking that her knickers werent the only thing in a twist. Actually, theyd never gotten twisted at all, since she hadnt worn any. But there were some things one simply didnt share with ones sister. Even one who had enough French lingerie to keep the entire staff of a mens magazine in a state of blissful arousal for about a year or so. Yeah, hes something, all right. He might just be the something, Jodi. Oh shit. Youre in love with him, arent you? Youve got all the signs Eleanor blushed. Am I that obvious? Jodi giggled. Other than the fact that you jump every time the phone rings, youve left uncounted numbers of messages on his machine, and you look like youve been well and truly fucked, no. Not obvious at all. The blush grew hotter. Hey. Lets not even go there, all right? Some things are private, you know. Jodi leaned closer. In that case, put some underwear on, will ya? Or at least change into looser pants before we go to Preston Palace for dinner. Eleanor threw up her hands and surrendered.

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*****
The evening had dragged on endlessly, with Vale Preston indulging in his favorite pastime of landing slick verbal blows on his daughters. They centered, as usual, around his disappointment that neither had used their inherited business acumen to join him in running Preston Industries. Eleanors teeth were still clenched as she and Jodi drove home from the grand estate theyd nicknamed Preston Palace. Oh let it go, El, said Jodi. Weve got our own lives. You got your business degree just to keep him happy. Youve made your own money, and now youre doing what you love. Let Dads digs go. If he cant be proud of what youve accomplished by yourself, then fuck him. Eleanor tried to follow her sisters wise advice and gradually eased the tension in her jaw. Jodi was right. She had built her own financial foundation without any help from him. She had a good job doing the work she adored, and she now had the added bonus of a special man in her life. A smile crossed her face. Thats right. Think of Justin. Jodi giggled. I cant wait to meet this guy. Anyone who can persuade you to go Commando must be hellaciously good in bed. Eleanor glanced at Jodi. Go Commando? What the hells that? Jodi chuckled again. No undies, babe. Bare-assed beneath your jeans. Nothing between you and yourwhat, Calvins? Vanderbilts? Eleanor snorted and tapped her fingers on the steering wheel as she waited for the lights to change. She couldnt wait to get home and see if Justin had called. Sure enough, the message light was blinking.

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Jodi wisely moved out of the way to avoid being mowed down as Eleanor dashed for the machine. Hi, babe, its Justin. Sorry I missed you earlier. Got a call from that idiot, Dave. Hes in a bit of trouble down south, and I have to go take care of it. Ill be back Tuesday for sure. God, honey, I miss you. You can bet well be ready and waiting to see you thenme and E.T., that is Justins low chuckle reverberated through the room as a click signaled the end of the message. E.T? Jodi raised one eyebrow in eloquent silence. Eleanor blushed fiercely. Never mind. So hes gone to rescue this Dave person. Hes the one who lost the bar, right? Yes, answered Eleanor. And Im fast getting to the point where I think Justin ought to just shoot him and put him out of his misery while hes at it. She moved around the kitchen and poured them both a glass of wine. So what do you think classifies as a bit of trouble down south? Havent a clue. It could be as simple as his car broke down a few towns over. Or he could be up on lewd and indecent charges in some jail cell in New Orleans. Eleanor sipped her wine. Knowing Dave, its more likely the latter. Whatever it is, its going to keep Justin out of town until Tuesday. You gonna try his cell phone again? Eleanor frowned. I really wanted to tell him about the bar in person, Jo. And if hes up to his rear working out stuff for Dave, hes not going to be able to concentrate on what Im saying. So youre going to wait until Tuesday? Isnt that when the meeting is to sign the paperwork? Eleanor hissed out a breath. Yeah. Damn. Its going to be a close call.

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Jodis blue eyes gazed knowingly at her sister. Try and reach him, hon. Guys and money and business are an odd combination. They tend to confuse their dicks with their bank balance. Not to mention muddling their masculinity with their business success. Eleanor snorted. How come youre so smart all of a sudden? Ah. Parisll do that to you. Yeah, right. Ill try, Miss Wise-Ass Frenchified Person. You can bet Ill try. The last thing I want is to walk into that bar without having Justin know whats happening. And those words were haunting Eleanor as she slid into her car on Tuesday morning. The paperwork was readyall it needed was her signature on the dotted line. Or the twenty-seven dotted lines that the lawyers had probably generated. She reached for her cell phone one more time. She had to reach Justin, she just had to. Beepbeepbeep. Fuck. Millions of dollars of research money poured into years of technology and still dependent on one lousy little battery. Which was now fucking dead.

*****
Justin rubbed his hand over his face and tried to concentrate on what the uptight suits were babbling about. Theyd riffled through papers with all the glee of kids in a candy store, and he was bored to death with it. Hed noted that the sums involved were fair, and that the fancy attorneys had introduced themselves as representing some Industries or other. He wanted to sign the things, get the investor business over and done with, and then call Eleanor.

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And then get up close and personal with Eleanor. Very personal. And very close. With nothing so annoying as clothes between them. Pausing to help themselves to refreshment, the lawyers stopped muttering, and Dave stared sadly at Justin as they were left alone at the table. Yo, guy. Still got your mind on that redhead with the fine ass, huh? Justin glared at Dave. If it hadnt been for him and those sheep Hey, I said I was sorry. Dave held up his hand as Justins expression told him exactly what he was thinking. This is it, Dave. After today, I dont wanna see your hairy ass again. Ever. We clear on that? Dave hung his head. Sorry, Justin. I really am. But I do have something to cheer you up. This investorshe Justins head jerked up a little. She? You found a woman investor? Great. Probably some weirdo who ran an escort service. Featuring midgets. Nah, not me. Those dudes He nodded at the lawyers who were busily helping themselves to soda. But lemme tell ya, Justin. If youve got a thing for redheads with fine asses, then youre in for a treat Justin shrugged. There was only one redhead for him, and he knew it. Her beautiful ass was his, along with the rest of her. His cock signaled its agreement with that thought by stirring restlessly in his crotch. It had been too long since hed sunk balls deep into his woman. Dont know, dont care, he said to Dave. Ive got mine. And Im not going to let this one get away. Dave whistled through his teeth. Damn shame, Justin. Because this ones a real hottie. From her red hair, cute tits, down past that curvy ass and great legsyou might want to rethink that decision of yours. Oh and those green eyesmmmmmmmm.

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The hair on the back of Justins neck prickled. Green eyes too? Oh yeah. Real fine ones. Kinda sparkle at a guy, you know? Of course, its the body that gets ya Justin sighed. Dave was so totally out of his life, and he couldnt wait to hear the door bang behind him as he left. But he also couldnt deny a slight feeling of concern as Dave described their investor. Then he shrugged it off. It couldnt be. Could it? Ah, here she is now. The lawyers returned to the table, expectant smiles on their faces, and even Dave stood up. That was a first. Blinded a little by the sunshine coming in through the open door, Justin couldnt see much more than a curvy female shape as his new partner entered the bar. I see youre all here. Sorry if Im late. The voice sent chills up Justins back and he felt his jaw drop. Everything suddenly clicked into place. Preston Industries. Preston. As in Eleanor Preston. Not at all, not at all. I believe you know just about everyone here, except perhaps One of the lawyers moved forward and pulled out a chair. I should certainly introduce you to the owner. Justin swallowed. Mr. Collins, this is your new investor and partner. Miss Eleanor Preston. A cold weight settled around Justins heart. Weve met.

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Chapter 14
Eleanors stomach was in knots and her heart was in her throat as she walked into the bar. Her man was in there. The one who lit her fires, sent her mind into a whirlwind, and turned her body into a needy thing that ached for every little touch he gave her. Thank God shed decided to wear underwear for this occasion, because just knowing he was there was making her all kinds of wet. But the cold growl in his voice stopped her in her tracks. Hello, Justin, she smiled. There was no answering smile. No heat in those chocolate-brown eyes of his. Just a hint of confusion covered by a blank expression that told her nothing of what he was thinking. Damn and shit. She had tried so hard to reach him and avoid this moment. Hey, you two know each other? Daves rough voice broke the silence. Yeah. We sure do, dont we, Miss Preston? The rough edge to Justins voice surprised Eleanor. She tried to keep things casual. Indeed. Justin and I arefriends. She took her seat, and allowed the lawyers to shovel a mountain of paperwork in front of her. Daves eyes widened. Christ, dont tell me shes that fine piece of ass youve been nailing, Justin? The one thats got your dick tied up in knots? Eleanor jerked her head up, and tried to quell the color she felt rising to her skin at Daves rough words. The lawyers coughed behind their hands.

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She is indeed, Dave. It seems theres a few things she hasnt told me, however. Isnt that true, Miss Investor Preston? Eleanor swallowed. Justin, I tried. Ive been trying to reach you for two days. She reached out a hand toward him, but he pulled back from her touch. This deals been going down for a lot more than two days, Eleanor. She lowered her head. Yes, it has. Justin pushed away from the table. So sign the fucking paperwork. Lets get this over with. Then we can get on with our lives. What youve left me of mine, that is. What Preston Industries hasnt bought. Eleanor bit her lip as she put her name to the pages spread before her by the lawyers. As soon as she was done, they gathered their files, smiled politely and hotfooted it out the door like all the devils in hell were after them. Lawyers didnt like fights where litigation wasnt likely to be involved. JustinI can explain. She watched him as he paced the floor in front of the bar. Explain what, Eleanor? That you were fucking me to get information about the financial stability of my bar? No! Absolutely not. They were two different things. Oh yeah, right. It was my great body that attracted Vale Prestons daughter. A woman with more money than God just couldnt wait to get into bed with little ol me. And my cock. When she can buy any cock she wants. Eleanor saw red. How dare you? How dare I? Justin snapped back. How dare you? You let me think that I was all that mattered. You never thought to mention that you were about to sink some of those gazillions of Preston dollars into my business. My business. You knew what this bar means to me

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Of course I did. Why do you think I did it? Because it amused you? Because you thought it would be cute to fuck the owner, and then buy in? You lied to me, Eleanor. I did not! Yes you did. With every moan and grunt and every time you came. You let me think it was all about us. When instead it was all about this He waved his hands toward the empty space where a door had once led into the meat market next door. You saw a damned fine business opportunity here. You even tried to talk me into it with all that shit about a restaurant. All the time your body was fucking mine dry your mind was working out the business angles. Thats as close to lying in my book as you can get. Justin spat the words out at Eleanor. Her heart shattered, even though her brains were exploding with anger. Thats just about enough. She stood and faced him, aching with the pain that shuddered through her at his words, and devastated by the hurt she glimpsed in his eyes before he turned away. Perhaps its time for a few hard facts, Mr. Collins. She stalked over to stand in front of him. For a start, let me tell you a little something about Vale Preston and his gazillions, as you so aptly put it. Those gazillions belong to Vale Preston. Sure, Im his daughter, but I dont touch a penny of it. She carried on, ignoring Justins scornful sneer. Everything I have, everything I own, I worked for myself. I dont answer to Vale Preston, or his money. I earned a degree in business economics, with a minor in graphic arts. It happened that I liked graphic arts more, but that didnt stop me from managing my own money sensibly. Its my money that I just signed away. Dont ever make the mistake of confusing me with my father.

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Justin snorted. And if you think that Id ever, EVER, go to bed with someone just for financial information, well, shit. I guess youve made it pretty clear what you think of me for that, havent you? The blood boiled in Eleanors veins. Justin, her Justin, was doing everything short of calling her a whore. In front of Dave, too. Shed never been angrier in her life. Justin ran a hand roughly through his hair. Look, Eleanor. You have what you wanted. A piece of my bar. Now you can go ahead with whatever stupid ass ideas youve got. Of course its no surprise to me that it worked out this way. After all, Im sure Daddys little girl manages to get whatever she sets her mind to, doesnt she? Eleanor flinched. Hadnt the damn man been listening to a word shed said? You pig-headed, stubborn, deaf-eared swine! Justin managed a hoarse laugh. Cant you swear any better than that? Or doesnt Vale Preston allow his precious daughter to use four letter words? You sure used enough when we were fucking on Saturday night Eleanors eyes blurred. A fire swept up her body and before she knew it, her arm had lifted and taken a good solid swing at Justin. The strength of her blow staggered him, and the handprint she left behind on his cheek stood out livid against the pallor of his face. I should have known, she hissed. I should have guessed that that was all it was to you. Just a fucking. Just another woman, another notch on your bedpost. After all, someones got to take pity on the poor girl without a date, right? Someones got to show her a good time. And probably laugh about it with his buddies afterwards She tossed an angry glance at Dave, who cowered down behind the table.

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Well, Im not going to apologize for a damn thing, Justin Collins. I enjoyed fucking you. I will run my side of this bar in any way I see fit, and be damned to you if you dont care that business improves. I dont give a shit anymore. She turned to the table and grabbed her purse, squeezing it until her knuckles were white. What I do give a shit about is the fact that I made a huge mistake. Oh yeah? What was that? Thinking Id let you walk in and take over my bar because you were so great in bed? The words came out like ground glass from Justins taut mouth. No. I made a huge mistake when I let myself fall in love with you. Well, Im just going to have to chalk that one up to experience. She spun on her heel toward the door. Consider that mistake over. She pulled the smoked glass doors open and stepped into the blinding sunshine, trying to see past the tears that were clogging her eyes. God help her, she never looked back.

*****
Well, ol buddy. Ive seen fuckups before, but you sure take the cake. And here I thought you were so goddamned smart. Justins fist clenched with the urge to beat the living crap out of Dave. Or the bar. Or anything handy. His blood was boiling and he couldnt think straight. Dave moved from his defensive position behind the table and pulled a tall beer for Justin who downed it without realizing what he was doing. He was just so fucking hurt. He bared his teeth at Dave. Youre the last asshole who should be lecturing me about fuckups, you know Dave snorted. I know. But still. I may be a fuckup, but Im not a stupid, brains-in-his-ass fuckup.

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Justin took another long swallow of his beer. And youre saying I am? Yep. You gonna share why? Or is that just gonna be chalked up to one of lifes great mysteries? Dave refilled his own glass. Well, where dyou want me to start? Justin curled his lip. How about with the sheep? Nah. Been there, done that, paid off the farmer. Justin closed his eyes. Look, Dave. Were done. Through. Youre in the clear. Go divorce your wife and get yourself into as much trouble as you want. I dont care anymore. Have a nice fucked-up life. And what about you? Dave idly mopped the bar. What you gonna do now? Justin grunted. Now Im gonna have to learn to live with the fact that my bar is half-owned by the woman I thought I wasthat I could havewho might have Been something special to ya? I guess. So wheres the problem? Dave leaned on his hand and stared at Justin through his eternally bloodshot eyes. Are you fucking nuts? Didnt you just hear all that? Justins hand went to his cheek where Eleanor had laid one on him. Damn, she was a strong woman. He felt his jaw to see if shed loosened any teeth. All I heard was a woman trying to help her man. Justin stared. Whatever the hell Dave had been up to lately must have pickled his mind as well as his eyes. Yeah, right. By moving in on his business. By not telling him she was loaded, could buy him ten times over. By fucking him until he couldnt see straight, and then

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And then what, Justin? Coming to his rescue like you do for me all the time? Like I did. I told you. Thats it. Were through. Dave sighed. And we made such a nice couple, too. Justin was too upset to respond to the humor. Look, Dave, she lied to me, shit. Oh yeah? How? By not telling you she was Vale Prestons daughter? By not telling you she had a degree in business? By not telling you she was smartern the two of us together when it comes to money? Justin nodded. Yeah. All of that. And what fucking difference would that have made to whats between those long luscious thighs? Justin paused, and let his mind settle a bit. He thought of those long luscious thighs, and how they felt wrapped around him. He tried not to think of her sweet pussy and her perfect ass and how it felt to be buried in the first while holding the second. Just consider this, my man. If shed walked in here and introduced herself as Vale Prestons daughter, what the hell would you have done? Run a mile. Who needs a rich bitch? My point exactly. Dave smiled smugly. She came in here as Eleanor Preston. Period. Or maybe not, I wouldnt know about her periods. Justin raised a threatening hand in Daves direction. Okay, okay. Bad taste. Thats me. Bad Taste Dave. But not brain-dead Dave. She came in here that night as herself. No one else. Her Daddy wasnt with her. Her money wasnt with her. And what did you see? Justin clenched his teeth. A womana real fine assa redhead

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Yeah, she got to you, didnt she? She looked at you with those big green eyes and your dick just upped and boinked itself with glee. Justin nodded. So what the hells gotten into you? Shes nuts about you, youre nuts about her, so what if shes related to the biggest fucking millionaire since that computer guy? It wasnt his money she used, it was hers. She took a chance on you, old buddy, and it looks to me like you let her down. Bad. Justin groaned. Shit, what a mess. Yep. A real nice clusterfuck, if you ask me. Dave tossed away the rag and gathered his coat, picking up what was left of the paperwork and files on the table. Not only did you shoot off your big mouth, you damn near called her a whore, too. Justin winced. Could it get any worse? Doubt if any woman could ever forgive that. Yes, it could get worse. It just did. Dave shrugged into his coat. Well, Im gone. Its been fun, Justin. Good luck. Justin accepted the outstretched hand and shook it. Whatever else Dave had been, theyd been buddies once upon a time. The bar wouldnt be here without him, and Justin knew it. You too, Dave. Try and stay out of trouble, will you? Dave snorted and walked to the door. Troubles my middle name. If I dont find it, itll find me. Too many women He paused. And several cute guys too He left, whistling, and the door closed behind him, leaving Justin to the silence of the empty bar, and the thoughts that were stabbing at his aching heart.

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Chapter 15
Eleanor made it all the way to her car and actually slid in behind the steering wheel before the tears came. They fell fast, blinding her, soaking her neat blouse, and smearing what little makeup she was wearing. The sobs followed. Great racking shudders that tore at her lungs and ripped her throat. Shed made a terrible mistake. Shed thought that Justin would understand. How could he? She blew her nose and wiped away more tears. Only someone whod been raised by the imperious Vale Preston could understand the almost savage need to get away from that kind of power. To prove oneself an individual, untouched and unsupported by the Preston name and the Preston money. How the hell could she ever explain that to Justin? Would he ever listen? Did she want to try to make him listen? Hed hurt her badly. Both in his refusal to hear her out, or even try to see her side of it, and most of all, by thinking that theirtheir fucking had been all about business. Was he nuts? Didnt he know that all he had to do was smile at her from those gorgeous eyes and shed let him take her any which way he wanted? Shed damn near given him her soul on Saturday night, and today hed given it back after hed wiped his feet on it. Thats what hurt.

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That he thought shed been using him simply to get business information out of him for a financial opportunity. Now for the first time in her life, she cursed the Preston name. Cursed the image of some kind of all-powerful financial god who pulled people like puppets on a string. Well, she had no strings. Or hadnt until a certain man had touched her, and showed her what it was like to be a real woman in bed with a real man. And also showed her that she did, in fact, possess the capacity to love to the edge of madness. And now it was gone. A pile of ashes around her feet, simply because shed been a fucking idiot and not told him. Of course, hed been a fucking idiot too, but she could have avoided so much of this if shed been able to reach him before the meeting. She banged her head against the steering wheel and tried to force some order back into her brain. Think, Eleanor, think. Her first impulse was to start the engine, slap the car in gear and head out of town. Perhaps Nebraska would be lovely at this time of year. She liked corn. Then she realized that no matter how far she ran, Justin would be running with her. In her mind, her heart, her underwear, he was everywhere. She couldnt escape her feelings for him even if she hitched a ride on the next shuttle to the International Space Station. She sighed. She loved him so much. She cried and thought, and cried again, going through the entire box of tissues and emerging from her car once to empty the trash and put more money in the meter. Her mind turned the problem over and over, and her heart just wept. She just couldnt bring herself to drive away from the bar. And Justin. It would seem like a goodbye forever move. And she just could not do it.
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She faced reality. She was still in love with Justin. Always would be. There was no way around it. He was her life, her happiness, her joy. Without him, there would be a great gaping hole in her heart. And the fucking idiot had better smarten up and realize it. She clenched her teeth, wiped her nose one last time, and reached for the ignition.

*****
Justin had no idea how much time had passed, but the sun was sinking and he needed to move. It was like hed sucked all the air out of the silent bar. He opened the door and went outside. He closed his eyes and took long, deep breaths. The sound of people filled the air, and as he heard couples talking he opened his eyes again and took a good long look around. Across the street was Giovannis. A nice Italian restaurant. People would come into the club after eating there. Theyd complain about the prices but say there wasnt anywhere close to eat. He looked up and down the road and saw a few more places to eat. McDonalds and a Taco Bell. Useful, but really no place for people to sit down and have a relaxing dinner. Hed really never thought about it until Eleanor had mentioned it. A feeling of guilt swept over Justin. For his terrible reaction to Eleanor being the potential buyer and for the horrible way he had spoken to her. She didnt deserve to be talked to like that. She had never mentioned her money or pushed her business smarts at him. So she was from a rich family. That degree in business, though, shed earned that herself. Justin didnt even have a degree of any kind, so who was he to undermine what she had worked so hard for?

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I am a total schmuck, he thought as he looked down at his watch. Six-fifteen and the bar was empty except for the new bartender, Marcus. He was a German guy, a stranger to the area, but had been highly recommended by Jim. He did work his ass off and the women seemed to like him too. Something about the strong silent type. Justin walked slowly down the street to the corner. Stopping to turn around and head back to the bar, he looked at the newspaper-covered windows of Johnsons Meat Market that had closed down a few months ago. They had leased the area from Justin and Dave. It was a hard place to sell meats, but theyd had great steaks. Justin had gone there to buy his barbecue steaks for football season. It was a smaller part of the building but was a great location. Stepping back, Justin looked up and imagined a larger neon sign flashing on the building. The growling in his stomach and the sudden urge to stick a screwdriver through his head took over. He could envision everything Eleanor had said. This part of the building could be a diner serving food, appetizers, whatever, and bring more people to the club. He could open a walkway through the walls between them. The people could just walk from dinner to The Mating Place for dancing and drinks. Excitement filled his head. This would really work. Shit, I said all that stuff to her. Man, I blew it. I am so stupid sometimes with my pride. Fuck, fuck, fuck. Justin paced back and forth, talking to himself. I could buy flowers, no, candy, no, I sound like a schoolboy. Im fucking up the best thing to happen to me. I am so stupid. Shes beautiful, incredible in bed, smart, sexy, incredible in bed, she likes or liked me, shes incredible in bed, and Im talking to myself. Pulling out his cell phone, Justin punched the redial and cleared his throat.

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Damn machines, ummm, uh, hello, Eleanor? This is Justin. Pausing, he thought to himself, then started again. I cant say how sorry I am for insulting you like I did. I was so wrong, and you didnt deserve my disrespect. I am ashamed of my treatment of you. You were right. You never asked me for anything. I know there isnt anything I can say to repair the damage I did. Dave, yes that Dave, gave me some sound advice. It doesnt matter who your family is. Its you that is important and you that I, ummI would love the chance to grovel at your feet and kiss your beautiful ass until the sunrise. Please forgive me for beinga man. But I would love to work with you. Im outside the club and looking at the area next door we own and I think your ideas would work great. Please cadamn, message ended. What else would you say? said a soft voice from a car parked by the curb. Kneeling down, Justin looked into the window and then hung his head as a pair of tearstained green eyes stared back at him. I would say I was an ass. Then tell her that she was right and I should have at least heard her out and listened instead of thinking I knew everything. You know, she would probably want to hear that. Eleanor smiled back at Justin. Then Id tell her that if I feel this bad about a fight, then there must be more to my feelings then just being friends. Justin looked up into Eleanors eyes. The gleam of tears filled them and his heart ached to hold her. Sweetheart, Im sorry. I dont want to lose you because I m too stubborn. I just Shut up, Justin. Just shut up. Eleanor started her car. Justin felt his heart drop. Hed blown it, he knew hed blown it. You going to get in the car or not? Eleanor yelled out to Justin.

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Justin jumped up, pumped his fist in the air, and leaped into the car. Leaning over, he kissed Eleanor. She met his lips willingly, and then pulled back a little with a wicked smile on her face. You knowthe groveling part may take a long time. Maybe months of being my slave. Justin grinned. Maybe years. Maybe forever. As they drove off, Eleanor glanced at his lap. You want to see if we can make E.T. phone home?

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Elloras Cave Publishing, Inc.


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