The Temptation of a Kiss ~ Chapter 1

The Temptation of a Kiss

~ Chapter 1 ~

 

  

Landon sat in a chair in the corner of Devon’s dim study. He needed to get away and think, hopefully even clear his head somewhat. It was quiet and still, possible just what he needed. He could not seem to stop his thoughts from traveling to Brook. Landon wanted so desperately to forget what had happened between them the last week, but he remained a prisoner to images of her. He was coming undone. The tortuous visions of Brook’s naked body ran out of control in his mind.

It was not just the exchange they shared three times; it was more than that, so much more. It was in every way how she had said his name. The stunning way she felt under his touch. No woman had ever looked at him that way before. Brook had wanted more of him in any way he could give her. And he ceded to her every wish.

Brook had grabbed him, begged with a pleading desire for more of what he so willingly gave to her. He yielded to her in a moment of passion. Relinquishing every part of his deepest desire for her and she knew it. He had let her know it, showing her how he longed to be with her. He had felt helpless to his own fascination with her. The past week had been explosive between them. Each time felt as if it were the first time and was going to be the last of their lives.

Afterwards, the smell of her hair and her skin lingered on him for hours. It drove him crazy and he could not bring himself to wash it off.

He had thought once he bedded her it would cure his desire for her. Instead, it made everything worse. He could see her under his naked body so vividly now. Whereas before, it was a mere imagined thought. Now, his mind was consumed with memories of her and her body and the sound of her voice crying out to him in a moment of pleasure. He still tasted her breath on his, on his lips. Envisioning the way she looked as he caressed her moist skin with the tips of his fingers.

God when was it going to end? She was lingering in his mind, on his clothes, his body, and now . . . in his heart.

Landon rose quickly and went to the bar. He threw back a large shot of whisky in one gulp. A drink Landon should never drink, given his past with it. He knocked back another one just as fast.

It wasn’t long before the affects of the fifth shot were apparent. Landon slumped down in the chair, holding a full glass of the poison. He was going to rid his mind of her tonight. At least that was what he aimed for.

Devon opened the door and walked to his desk. Going through his stack of letters was not one of his favorite things to do. He set aside all the invitations to the balls and parties for Sarah and Grams to go though later. As he gazed at the pile, he smiled at the thought of his wife. Two months ago, he was alone and now, he had Sarah.

“Does love bring about a smile for you Devon?”

Devon whipped his head around in the direction the voice was coming from. Seeing Landon slouched down in the chair, holding an empty glass was not easy for him. It brought to mind many bad memories. He recognized Landon’s tone and it was like a visit from an old acquaintance you don’t care for very much.

“Have you been here long?” Devon asked.

“I needed somewhere quiet to think. Do you mind me coming here?”

“You know I don’t Landon. Day or night you are always welcome in my home.” Devon from this point was not sure if he wanted to ask Landon what was wrong. “Do you care to talk?”

“I think I have it handled now. She is gone.” Landon’s tone was low and it hissed with anger.

Devon leaned back in his chair. “Who is gone?”

“The wicked woman haunting my thoughts. She needed to be tamed.” Landon held his empty glass in the air. “And now she is.”

“What woman are you talking about? Do I know her?” Devon asked, as he grew concerned.

Landon stood up and walked over to the bar again. “It doesn’t matter now Devon, I took care of it.” Landon poured a fresh drink all the way to the rim of his glass and then over the sides, splashing it on the bar top.

Devon watched Landon sluggishly walk back to the chair and slouch down back in it. Devon rose to talk with Landon as Sarah came dashing into the room.

“You are home,” her voice full of excitement. She embraced Devon tightly.

Devon held her close to him as he buried his nose in her neck. Then he whispered, “Words cannot convey how much I have missed you.”

Sarah pulled back from him as she smiled. Whispering back she said, “Perhaps you will show me then.”

Devon kissed her gently.

“How heartwarming.” Landon’s tone indicated his displeasure of them.

Sarah jumped with surprise. “I did not know you were here Landon. Will you not stay for dinner?” Her cheeks flushed with a deep pink color.

Devon whispered something in her ear and her gaze moved to Landon. Sarah then left the room.

Devon’s glare at Landon was fierce. “Do not ever speak to my wife in that manner.”

“Why do you love her Devon? I mean, she is very beautiful woman, but what is it really about her that made you want to throw your life away?”

Devon stared at him. He refused to allow Landon get to him. “I did it because I love her. She is everything to me Landon. Perhaps one day you will understand that yourself.”

“That is no answer Devon. I can see that Sarah is charming, funny, and well,” Landon held up his glass in front of his own face and examined it for a brief moment. Landon raised his heavy lidded gaze and met Devon’s and said, “I certainly know how sweet her lips taste.”

Devon clenched his fists at his sides. He knew he was losing control of himself. Devon strode over to Landon and grabbed the drink from his hand. He smashed the half-full glass into the fireplace. “Get the hell out!”

Landon began to chuckle. He wanted Devon to hit him. “Does that bother you to know I remember what your wife’s lips taste like? She is soft and sweet like honey. Do you taste that too?”

Chuckling again and he continued. “I have to confess I’m wondering if the rest of Sarah’s body tastes of-

Devon’s hands clenched tightly around Landon’s neck. The sound of the legs from the chair splitting echoed throughout the room.

Landon offered no resistance to Devon’s assault on him. In fact, he welcomed it. He wanted to be unconscious. His only hope was that Devon would deliver and rescue him from his thoughts of Brook. Landon wanted Devon to completely knocking out every image, memory of her lavender scent, the sound of her voice ringing in his ears, but most of all, the feeling of loss without her in his arms.

Devon punched him hard the first two times. He grabbed Landon with both hands by his shirt and shook him with brutal force. “Why are you doing this?”

“Hit me again. Harder this time,” Landon said with short breaths. He could taste the blood from his lip. It wasn’t enough. “Hit me again damn it!”

© copyright 2012

Chapter 2    Chapter 3    Chapters 4 and 5

 

Chapter 6   Chapter 7

Chapters 8 and 9

Chapter 10

 

 



What Time Periods is Regency Era Romance Novels

All my stories are based in the Regency era. I was on Amazon today looking up ebook reviews and as I read through them, a few comments were thrown around about what era the ebook was set in. Let me tell you guys right now, it wasn't pretty and the women commenting were mean about it. Besides the caddy arguing back and forth, there was a huge debate on what time period the Regency era falls into. So here is what I have found.

 This is what wikipedia has defined as the Regency era. I have always found wikipedia to be a reliable source.

The Regency era in the United Kingdom is the period between 1811—when King George III was deemed unfit to rule and his son, the Prince of Wales, ruled as his proxy as Prince Regent—and 1820, when the Prince Regent became George IV on the death of his father.

The term Regency era sometimes refers to a more extended time frame than the decade of the formal Regency. The period between 1795 and 1837 (the latter part of the reign of George III and the reigns of his sons George IV, as Prince Regent and King, and William IV) was characterized by distinctive trends in British architecture, literature, fashions, politics, and culture. If Regency era is being used to describe the transition between Georgian and Victorian eras, the focus is on the pre-Victorian period from 1811, when the formal Regency began, through 1837 when Queen Victoria succeeded William IV.

So it is considered to be between 1811 to 1820. Unless you are like me and opt to use the extended time frame from 1795 to 1837.  Shh, don't tell the mean ladies who like to comment on Amazon.

Romantica Short Story ~ One Night of Passion ~ chapter 5

Chapter 5

Kate did not sleep much that night. She ran through in her mind about the charming mysterious Mr. Bellford. He reminds her so much of the man she had loved her whole life. The man she was now forced to let go and forget. She tossed and turned in her bed. The covers were now twisted and tangled around her legs.

It's not far. Bellford should not be the one calling for me tomorrow. She closed her eyes and saw his smile peak out from under his over grown beard. Mr. Bellford.

Kate threw back her covers and got out of bed. Shuffling her way over to the double french doors she pushed them open, letting the cool breeze in around her. The balcony over looked the gardens below. Dew covered vegetation bounced the moon light off it's delicate parts. A big brilliant moon flooded over the earth with a cool pale silver light. A twinkle now and then added to the magical feeling of the night.

Is this right? Could this be what I was meant for? Mr. Bellford seems to good to be true. Kate's mind stilled momentarily. What if I fall in love with him and he is taken from me like... She silenced herself from speaking his name. The pain it caused from just thinking it was too much right now. Kate gazed up to the stars and whispered, "I would have waited a life time for you. Please believe me. I have to move on now. I wish so very much it was all different, that it was all what I had always dreamed it to be. But, it isn't and never will be." A large tear dropped from her eye missing her cheek on it's way down, landing on her hand. I want this to be the last time I cry for you. From this point forward I want to think of you, us, and it bring about a smile to my face and fill my heart with happiness.

Kate left and walked back threw the french doors. Turning to close them, she decided at that moment when the doors shut it would be the end of her mourning for him. Tomorrow will be a new beginning. The doors clicked shut and she rested her forehead on the frame. "Ok, this is going to be hard. I can do this. I have to do this."

Within a few hours the sun was beginning to rise. Kate had finally fell asleep and was woken by the birds outside her window. "No. Go away birds. It's not time yet. Let me sleep just five more minutes." Five minutes turned into three hours. Her eyes flew open and she looked at the clock. "Oh no!" She jumped up. It was now nine a.m. Mr. Bellford is set to arrive at ten.

Kate saw her close laid out and a bath already for her. How on earth could Nelly have known I was to got out this morning? Standing there baffled she heard Nelly in the hall. Kate rushed to the door.

"Nelly?"

"Yes my dear?" Nelly turned toward Kate in the hall. "You are still not bathed?" She shook her head at Kate and shooed her hands at her to go back into the room. "On with ya little lady. You will surely be late now."

Kate stopped once in the room and asked, "How did you know I had an appointment this morning Nelly?"

Nelly fussed with the bedding and answered with out looking at her, "Well the note of course my dear. Now get in the tub before it goes-"

"What note?"

"The one sent to my room yesterday evening. What do mean what note child?" Nelly looked at her with confusion.

"I did not send you a note Nelly."

"Well someone did my love. Now get in the tub. It is a quarter past. Time is a wasting." Nelly turned Kate around and removed her nightgown. "I will return in fifteen minutes to dress ya child."

Nelly closed the door and Kate sat down in the tub. Maybe it was Sues who sent it to her. Yes it would have to be. Kate washed her hair quickly and before she could finish with the rest of her Nelly came bursting in.

"Alright my dear up and out with ya. I lost track of the time and it is nearly quarter to ten."

Kate rushed into her close and Nelly fashioned a lose bun on top of her head. "My child you are stunning. I do not know of another woman in all of London that can look as you do with only fifteen minutes to dress." Nelly kissed the top of her head and softly said into her hair, "You look like your mum my love."

She loved it when Nelly told her this. Nelly had loved her mother as much as she did. Kate smiled. "Thank you Nelly."

"Yes, well, alright off with ya now. Go enjoy your day." Kate placed a sweet kiss on her chubby cheek and left the room.

Descending down the grand staircase, Kate saw Mr. Bellford standing with her brother Gary. She paused until she heard Gary laughing with him.

"Good morning," She said cheerfully.

Gary looked at her and smiled. Kate saw the bottle of expensive brandy in his hands. Her gaze flew to Mr. Bellford. He winked at her discreetly which made her smile too much.

"I have not seen you smile like that in a long time Kate," Gary said.

"Yes well it is a beautiful morning," Kate replied. After a moment she stepped forward. "We should be on our way now. Have a wonderful day Gary."

Gary nodded and left to his study.

Bellford escorted her to the carriage. He held out his hand for Kate. She gazed up at him and slid her hand into his which caught her breath unexpectedly. The carriage pulled away from her home and she suddenly felt nervous.

"Kate?"

She glance to him.

"Why are you nervous?" He asked her softly.

"I am not nervous Mr. Bellford,." Her statement was followed by a nervous laugh.

"You are and I know you are because you bit up the corner of your lip." Kate stared at him. "And that laugh was a nervous laugh too."

Kate finally blinked. "Perhaps I am slightly nervous Mr. Bellford."

"Kate. Please stop calling me Mr. Bellford. You can call me just Bellford."

She burst out laughing. "Not much of a difference. Ok then Bellford. So may I ask where you are taking me?"

He flashed her a devilish smile. "You may but that does not mean I will answer." He watched her head fall back as her laughter deepened. "It is a special place that I thought you might enjoy."

Kate composed herself and gaze to him. "What is different about you today?" She studied him a few seconds longer. "It is you beard." She motioned with her hands to her own face. "You have groomed it."

"I did. As beautiful as you are Kate I was embarrassed to stand next to you yesterday looking as I did," He said.

Her cheeks warmed the instant he said it. "I thought you to be handsome either way Bellford." I can not believe I just said that to him. Why am I being so bold?

He smiled at her. "You did. Well I wish I would have known that this morning. I would have left it." He chuckled as he saw Kate's mouth open slightly. "Katie I'm just teasing." She smiled at that.

The rest of the ride was comfortable and their conversation went smooth, easy, too easy for them. Kate noted out loud to him it felt like they were old friends reunited. Kate of course blushed again when Bellford replied he could have never seen her just as a friend.

Kate gazed out the carriage window as it pulled up to a large building. "Where are we Bellford?"

© copyright 2012

To Be Continued Every Monday


by Pages of Romance Publishing

Chapter 1      Chapter 2     Chapter 3     Chapter 4    Chapter 6

Chapter 7  Chapter 8   Chapter 9   Chapter 10   Chapter 11


Final Chapter

Chapter 9 Coming Next Monday Morning Subscribe Now!

Romantica Short Story ~ One Night of Passion ~ chapter 3

Chapter 3

Kate raised both fists in the air ready to strike at what she could hit on him. Gary grabbed her by the wrists and held them tight.

"You are a foolish woman Kate. He is not coming back for you," Gary said.

"Let go of me Gary," Kate snapped at him.

"You will marry Beckum and you will be agreeable on the matter," he said.

"Release me now Gary or I'll scream," Kate said.

Gary tightened his grip on Kate. "He never loved you Kate and you were stupid for giving yourself to him. Everyone knows you are ruined. Who else will take a used woman like you? No one that's who. We are lucky Beckum has waited this long for you."

Kate let out a loud scream of frustration that filled the room. "He did love me! And you are right; he is not coming back for me because he is dead!" With all Kate's might she pushed out of her brother's grasp. "It does not change anything Gary. I hate Beckum." Not waiting for his response, Kate turned and went up to the third floor to her bed chamber. By the time she made it to the door she was crying.

She threw her body to the bed face first and sobbed until she fell asleep. Kate dreamt of him on the ship. Men were shouting and jumping over board. It was night with no moon to give any light. It scared her. She awoke screaming for him just before dawn broke.

Later that morning Kate hid away from her brother and the rest of the house in her drawing room in the back. She gazed out the window over the garden. With fall rushing in faster than normal the garden was wilting more every day.

She could not get her mind away from her dream last night. The thought of him drowning or worse at sea was killing her. The memory of the last time she saw him was all she had now. The passionate way he had kissed her caused Kate's body to shiver. When she closed her eyes she was able to still feel his hands on her body. The way he held her tight kissing her neck as his finger slid inside her. The words that he whispered to her as he did it. She remembered how needy it had caused her to get, asking him for more, more of him. "Why did you have to leave me?" she mumbled.

The door burst open and Kate's cousin Susana stood in the doorway with her hands over her chest. Kate immediately spun around from the commotion her cousin caused.

"My dear dear Kate. I heard of the dreadful news." Susana walked with a brisk step to her side at the window seat. "Do you know he was to be the earl of White Wood? Could you imagine him an earl? Such a pity that he is gone."

Kate rolled her eyes. "I'm not up for company Sues. And yes, not even yours." She let her head rest against the chilled pane glass of the window.

Susana looked her up and down. "You look simple horrid Kate. I insist we get out for a stroll in the park." Susana stood. "Come on Kate I insist."

Kate did not move. "I need to be alone right now Sues. Please leave me be I beg you."

Susana grabbed her by the arm and pulled her to her feet. She gave her a closer inspection and winced at her appearance. Placing her bonnet on Kate's head she stated, "This will have to do. As for your puffy eyes," Susana wrinkled her nose at Kate, "Just squint if you see anyone we know."

"Sues you know the entire ton," Kate said.

"Yes, well, we can walk on the east side where not a lot of people go. Alright then let us put on your coat." Susana snapped her finger at the maid outside the door. The young girl rushed in and handed it to her and then bowed quickly. Susana obviously frightened her and just waved her away.

Kate took in a deep breath of the fresh air. It did feel good to get outside and stand in the cool autumn breeze.

Once in the park Susana did not waste any time with small talk. It just wasn't her style.

"You are going to give Beckum real consideration aren't you Kate?"

"I have no intentions on spending the rest of my life with a man I do not love nor can stand to be in the same room with Sues," Kate said without looking at her turning her attention to what was left of the summer flowers that lined the pathway.

"Lots of people marry with no love at first. Besides he is not that bad Kate. I've spoken with him on occasion and he-"

Kate stopped and looked at her. "For God's sake Sues, the man knocked me down yesterday, insulted me as I sat at his feet, and then proceeded to step over me as if I was no more than horse droppings!"

Susana said, "Yes well, I believe he must not have recognized you otherwise he would have assisted you in getting up, but that is besides my point."

"That is exactly the point Susana. He is an arrogant pig who speaks of nothing but himself," Kate said.

Susana let out a long dramatic sigh. "I believe it to be in your best interest to think about it Kate."

"You mean my brother's interest Sues," Kate replied sharply.

"Yes and you know why Kate? Because what effects him also effects you and your future. If he is penniless then so are you." Susana sighed again.

After a moment Kate asked her, "How much was he paid for me?"

"I do not see how that matters Kate," Susana said.

"It does to me Sues. What is my happiness worth to him?"

Susana stopped and sat down on a park bench. "Fifty thousand pounds."

"What!" Kate shouted.

Susana took her arm and pulled her down on the bench next to her. "There is no need to make a scene Kate." She glanced around her quickly.

"Has Beckum asked for it back?" Kate asked.

Susana fiddled with her gloves make certain the fingers were just right. "Yes and Gary no longer has all of it. He paid off a few debits I believe and the rest I am not sure of."

Kate sat back and said, "I know where it went and so do you Sues. His Madam Sasha received a big portion of it I bet."

"Kate you do not know that to be true and do not start accusing blindly. Our family's name has been dragged through the mud enough the last couple years."

Kate knew she was referring to the night her brother and half the ton caught her naked in the conservatory. Kate blushed slightly.

Susana gazed at her briefly. "It was obviously worth it from the way you are turning pink Kate." She turned to her and said with a straight face. "Now that you know he is not coming back for you I think you owe it to us, your family, to consider Beckum, otherwise we will lose everything Kate."

Kate pinched her eyebrows together. "Your country estate too Sues?"

"Yes almost everything Kate. Please promise me you will think about it," Susana said.

Kate looked away and then shook her head yes.

Susana hugged her. "I will inform your brother." She patted Kate's leg and said with a cheerful tone, "I am in the mood for some sweets."

Kate felt sick like she had just been kicked in the stomach by a donkey. She knew Gary had put Susana up to this, although, she is just as snobby as Gary so she was sure it took Susana little persuading to do so.

"I would much rather walk a bit longer if you do not mind Sues," Kate said.

"Well, I cannot very well leave you alone out here," Susana replied with a wave of her hand through the air.

Kate started to walk towards the shops on the other side of the park. Susana caught up to her. "Will you please slow down Kate? Ladies are not suppose to walk this fast," Susana stated.

"Well Sues according to my brother no one views me as a lady anymore as of two years ago," Kate said.

"I'm sure he was merely upset when he said it," Susana replied growing short of breath.

"Yes and I could give two pigs and a chicken what all of the ton thinks of me," Kate said. Her anger was beginning to show now.

"Will you please? Slow down Kate," Susana said. "Stop...please!"

Kate halted and Susana slammed into her side. Susana took in a long deep breath. "Now then." She said in a stern mothering tone. She continued as she brushed down the fabric of her attire. "If you insist on carrying on this way you may walk by yourself Kate. I will not be seen galloping through the park like a pony. I am a lady and I would like very much to be viewed as such." With that being said, Susana walked past Kate with her nose held high.

Kate rolled her eyes at her cousin's snobbery and followed slowly behind her. Susana was exactly like Gary and it mad Kate crazy. She was seven years younger than both of them and they always made it a point to remind her of that fact often. Both Gary and Susana were welcomed babies and Kate was an accident that had caused her Mother's death at birth. The doctor had said she was too old to bare children at forty six. Another thing Gary also held over Kate's head.

Susana greeted some friends outside the bakery and Kate took a seat on a bench under a tree within eye sight of Susana. She was far enough away to afford herself peace and quiet and close enough to appease Susana.

A gust of wind blew some of Kate's hair across her cheek. She picked up her bonnet sitting on the bench next to her. Kate was startled as she caught sight of the man's hand on the back of the bench next to her shoulder.

"You are far more stunning without your bonnet Katie." The man's voice was deep and soft and slow. She knew that voice well. She realized she was holding her breath. Kate slowly stood up.

© copyright 2011

 

by Pages of Romance Publishing

Chapter 1       Chapter 2       Chapter 4    Chapter 5   Chapter 6

Chapter 7   Chapter 8   Chapter 9   Chapter 10   Chapter 11


Final Chapter

Chapter 11 Coming Monday Morning Subscribe Now!

Monday's Escape Into Romance Is..."Surrendering"

Surrendering

Chapter 27

 

    With a now very angry Sarah in the carriage, Devon instructs the driver to take them home. Sarah just stared out the window into the black night. Devon at a couple of different times almost brings himself to say something, but then stopped. He remained silent on the journey home. When the carriage stopped in front of the estate, Sarah did not wait for Devon or the driver to open the door.

   Sarah threw open the door and fell flat on her back when her sleeve caught on the handle of the door. She hit the ground with a loud thud.

   Devon jumped down and nearly landed on top of her. “My God, Sarah are you alright?” His voice was filled with panic.

   “I am fine. Do not touch me.” Sarah pushed herself up on her hands.

   “Are you hurt? Don’t move, let me help you.” Devon put his hands on her arms.

   Sarah swatted them away hard. “I said do not touch me Devon! Go away and leave me alone, you are good at that.” She pushed herself to her feet and went inside.

   Devon caught up to her in the entry. He could see she was still under the effects of the champagne somewhat. “Sarah wait. I want to talk to you.”

   Sarah kept walking down the hallway to the drawing room.

   “Stop damn it!” Devon screamed at her with frustration.

   She was startled by the strength of his voice. Sarah remained still with her back to him. The click of his shoes on the wood floor caused her heart to begin to race.

   As he drew closer to her he said, “There is something I have been wanting to tell you.”

   Sarah closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. With her back still to him she said, “What is it Devon?”

   “You do not have to marry a stranger Sarah.” Devon’s voice was soft.

   “Why is that?” Sarah asked. Her body grew tense as she waited for his answer.

   Devon took a moment then said, “Landon has discovered your father’s will on the estate and he left everything to you.”

   With Sarah’s eyes still closed she said, “And?”

   Devon paused to answer her then said, “Well this means your uncle owns none of it. You are a rich woman. You and Grams do not need to find a suitor now.” Devon felt himself growing warm. That was not what he had intended to say to her.

   Sarah’s eyes flew open and without even thinking, she turned around and slapped him hard across the cheek.

   He did not move. Devon knew he deserved it. He saw nothing but a deep hurt and despair in Sarah’s green eyes. He realized that he had just broken her heart. The fear of loving her and maybe one day losing her was paralyzing for him.

   Sarah’s tears began to stream down her face. “You dragged me away from the ball to tell me this? I was having a perfectly wonderful time with the Duke, who shows interest in me and you go and make a big scene, causing what is sure to be a scandal, to say this to me?” Sarah wiped her tears that were rapidly falling. “You are ruining me Devon. What will people think about what you have just done? Everyone saw it. The worst part is, you do not even care. People will say you are my jealous lover and I will be ruined. I wish I had not been in the park that day. I wish I had never met you Devon . . . ever.”

   She turned and started to walk away. Sarah could no longer hold in the pain that was crushing her heart and she started to cry loudly. She had not cried like this since her father’s death, to her, this is what it felt like, a death. He truly did not want her and she had convinced herself he had. What she thought was, had never really been.

   Devon was starring at her as she walked away from him, bracing herself against the wall as she walked along the hallway. As he listened to her began to cry hard, his heart shot out a deep pain throughout his chest. Devon placed his hand over his chest and let out a, “Um.”

   Sarah without warning collapsed to the floor. Devon ran to her side. Sarah pushed him away. She was crying so hard she was unable to form words, she just shook her head no. Devon knelt behind her as she stumbled to her feet and held the panels of the wall for support.

   He had never heard someone cry so hard before. Devon listened to her gasps for a breath between her moans of pain. He heard the sounds came from deep inside her and it was killing him.

   Devon reached out for her and placed his hands on her shoulders. Sarah turned to him and managed to say, “Don’t please.”

   He did not recognize her. She was grief-stricken. It was difficult for him to look at her. What was he doing to her?

   Sarah continued to walk backwards into Devon’s study. Devon walked forward and took her in his arms as she began to fall over a chair. “Sarah.” His tone was worrisome.

   “Devon please, you are tearing me apart.” Sarah pleaded with him through her deep sobbing tears. “L-let me go.”

   Devon gazed into her eyes and whispered, “I love you Sarah.” His own voice was shaking as he began to realize how much the woman he held in his arms meant to him. “Be my wife and end my torment Sarah. I will never be able to live without you.” Devon wiped away her tears and said softly to her, “You are everything to me, my Sarah.”

   Sarah crumpled in his arms. Devon picked her up and placed her on the chaise lounge. He sat next to her. As Devon gazed into her eyes, he found himself leaning towards her. Then he kissed her as if he would not live if he had not. Sarah kissed him back just as intense. She was still crying fairly hard.

   Devon climbed on top of her and laid himself between her legs. “Promise me you will never leave me Sarah.” He said through their kiss.

   “N-never.” Sarah whispered. She took a deep breath in.

   Devon cupped her cheek with his hands and said, “Please stop crying.”

   Devon kissed her deeply with passion. A feeling he had been holding back from for too long. His need to be with her was powerful. His body shook from the forcefully clear love he held for her.

   He pushed himself onto her hard and Sarah let out a moan. He repeated the motion again as he began to rock with her gently.

   Sarah could feel his entire body shaking as he held her in his arms. She was trembling just as much. She felt Devon reach around and try to undo her buttons on her gown. After a few moments, she felt the dress rip open down her back.

   “I will buy you a hundred new ones but, this one has to come off now.” Devon said with a heavy need in his voice.

   Sarah began to giggle as it broke the tension. Devon started laughing and said, “I am sorry. I cannot deal with a thousand of tiny buttons at this moment. Your new dress will have very large buttons on them.”

   Her giggle turned to laughter. “I could also walk around naked if that is easiest for you?”

    Devon began to kiss her neck as he said, “I do not think Richards will approve of that, but we can try.”

    Devon pulled her dress down over her shoulders moving it past her beasts. Devon left her dress where it was as he then went to take off her shoes. Next went one of her stockings. Devon reached up and slowly peeled down the other one. He moved his hand up under her dress and pulled away Sarah’s undergarments, tossing them to the floor.

    He sat up kneeling at her feet and he took off his coat and then unbuttoned his shirt. Sarah watched him slowly remove layers of his clothing. Devon smiled as he watched her watch him. He had thought about this moment so many times over the past few weeks. It almost didn’t feel real. He saw Sarah bite up her bottom lip, which always drove him nuts.

    Devon quickly fell to her, holding his weight from her and hovered over her lips with his. “If I could eat your lip I would.”

    Sarah smiled. “Why would you ever want to eat my lip Lord Price?”

    Devon grazed his lips against her bottom lip, them whispered, “Because from the moment I first saw you bit up your bottom lip, it drove me crazy with desire for you. How is that for a reason Mrs. Price?”

    Sarah kissed him with all the happiness in her heart.

   “How do you think Sarah Price sounds to you?” Her smile was enough of an answer for him and he kissed her bottom lip that he loved so much.

   He began pushing away the dress until it feel to the floor. Devon took the sight of her in for a moment. “God, you truly are lovely Sarah. You are more then I had imagined you to be.”

   “You thought of me?” Sarah asked.

   Devon kissed her shoulder as he said, “You consumed my every thought.” Moving down to her breast, he placed his lips gently over her nipple and said, “I nearly went mad.” Devon sucked her in and squeezed her breast. Releasing her from his mouth he said, “You have no idea what I thought about doing to these beautifully full breasts that taunted me daily.” Devon took her up again and Sarah let out a deep moan as she arch up towards him.

   More than anything, Devon wanted to make her moan with pleasure and he intended to do whatever it took for her to make louder noises. Every one of her short gasps and deep breaths of delight turned him on further.

   Devon moved to Sarah’s other breast teasing it with his tongue playfully. Sarah could not help it; she grabbed his hair pulling him closer to her. He reached down and moved her legs open to him. She immediately made an “Oh,” sound as he pushed up on her naked body. His pants were still on but she could feel his desire for her through his pants. He was firm and long.

   Taking her deeper into his mouth, he kneaded her other breast with a firm grip. Devon pressed her breasts together as he ran his tongue over and around both of her nipples.

   “Dev.” Sarah moaned to him.

   Devon nibbled her slightly and she grabbed his head with pleasure and surprise at what he was doing with her body. He then released her from his hot moist mouth. Devon gazed up to her. Sarah’s eyes were closed and her head was back. He watched as she licked her lips.

   A smile broke out across his face and he began trailing his tongue down over her belly. Devon made his way to her hip and ran his lips around to the side of her thigh. He could see her hands grabbing up the material of the chaise lounge she lay on.

   Devon continued passing across the top of her thigh. First the outside and then moving to the inside of her mid thigh. He proceeded up her inner thigh. Devon paused over the middle of her as she was spread wide open for him. His breath was hot across her moist skin that longed to be touched. He let his mouth hover over her as he listened to her begin to pant with need.

   He slowly moved to her other thigh as he trailed his tongue everywhere, except for where Sarah most desired him to go. After torturing her for a few more minutes, Devon ran his lips to the top area where her leg stopped. He again paused as he let his breath caress her gently.

   Devon moved his lips softly against her velvety moist skin. He heard Sarah take in a loud deep breath and hold it. She was so tender under his tongue as he spread her open. Sarah was trembling with a yearning for more of him. He ran his tongue up until he hit the right spot. Sarah jarred up and Devon grabbed her and held her hips down.

   Moving slowly he brought her into his mouth and gently began to suck her in, every part of her. Sarah let out a loud gasp. Devon then placed his finger at her opening and traced around it. She was already very wet. He slid just the tip of his finger inside her.

   “Devon!” Sarah half moan and half shouted. “Oh my God you have to stop. I can’t take this Dev.” Sarah begged him.

   He slid his finger in deeper and then back out, moving so slowly. Devon worked his finger in and out until he could go no further. He began to move faster. Sarah moaned with a crazy need for release. Her body was tight and she was overwhelmed with longing for Devon to fill her more.

   Devon removed his finger and slid his tongue inside her wildly. Sarah’s body tensed as she was beginning to peak. He held her hips down hard against the chaise and she screamed out his name.

   When she came down Devon quickly removed his pants and laid himself on top of her. He positioned himself at her opening and then kissed her hard. He felt himself slid into her.

   Moving slow, he was careful not to push too hard or fast. Sarah was digging her fingertips into his shoulders. Devon made a another push and reached her even deeper inside.

   “Oh Dev.”

   He held himself there for a moment allowing her to get use to his size.

   “Are you alright?” He asked.

   “You are not going to get any bigger are you?” She asked.

   Devon said, “No.”

   “Then I will be ok,” Sarah said.

   Devon chuckled slightly. “You have just said what every man wants to her a woman tell him.”

   “What, that he is too big for her.” Sarah said and then giggled.

   He answered yes and then kissed her. As he moved in and out of her, Sarah's breathing grew heavy. Devon reached down and pulled her leg up higher. He slowly pushed in deeper. Sarah grabbed the sides of his hips and let out a, “Ohm,” of surprise. She had thought he was not going to get any bigger.

   “Dev, you got bigger,” Sarah said.

   “I was not inside you all the way.” Devon said as he kissed her neck.

   “Are you now?” Sarah asked.

   “Almost.” Devon replied as he pushed a little deeper.

   “You are too big Dev!” Sarah moaned.

   Devon knew it was too much for her on her first time and he pulled back. “I am sorry Sarah. Did I hurt you?” Devon was looking in her eyes.

   Sarah wanted to say yes, but she smiled and shook her head no. “I am alright.”

   Devon could see she was lying. “You have to tell me if I am hurting you Sarah.”

   “ok then, yes it does hurt.” Sarah lowered her eyes to his chest. She felt foolish. Her lower lip began to quiver. She wanted to please him and now she thought she would not be able too.

   “Sarah there is nothing wrong with you. Hay, look at me. You are perfect. I do not have to go inside that deep yet, alright.”

   “You will not feel good if you don’t though. I am not right for you. We do not fit together.”

   Devon saw a tear falling down her cheek. “That is not true Sarah. It will take time for us to fit together. It never happens the first or even the second or up to the fifth time. Do you hear me?”

   She shook her head and he leaned down and kissed her hard. Devon started to move again. He was careful not to push to deep against her inside.

   He pulled out of her and rolled Sarah on top of him. “You can control how much of me you want in you.”

   Sarah was surprised. “I can, how?” Her voice was filled with excitement.

   Devon leaned up and kissed her as he said, “Take me in your hand and slid me inside you, but go slow at first.”

   Sarah placed her hand on him and put him at her opening. She pushed down on him slowly. She could not believe how different he felt. Sarah liked this better.

   Devon took her breast into his mouth and sucked with force. Sarah slid the rest of the way down on him and moaned deep at the pleasure of him filling her. He grabbed her hips and slid her across the top of him, showing her she did not have to only go one way.

   “Oh this feels so good,” Sarah said. She began to move slow while pushing against him harder. “Dev, Oh Dev, I am going to.”

   Devon could not hold out any longer. She was moaning and panting as her breasts rubbing against his chest and he began to release himself inside her at the same time her body gave into it's need. He stiffened and she tightened for one another, until they were done.

   Sarah lay on top of him out of breath and exhausted. Devon wrapped his arms around her and whispered, “I love you Mrs. Price.”

   She lifted her head and gazed into his eyes and said, “I love you Mr. Price.” She then smiled.

   Devon rolled them over so she was under him. He reached down and grabbed his shirt. He pulled himself out of her and placed his shirt there. “Hold this here for a few minutes.”

   Sarah understood what he was talking about and she tucked it under herself.

   Devon got up and went to the couch for a blanket for them. He walked back to Sarah and lay back down next to her, covering them both with the blanket.

   “How long shall our engagement be?” Sarah asked as she curled her back into the front of him.

   “Do you want an engagement because I don’t?” Devon said and kissed her neck.

   Sarah squirmed as she giggled. “It will take time to obtain a license, will it not?”

   “I already have one for us.”

   “You do? When did you get one?” Sarah was shocked by the delightful news.

   “I went after our argument and got one this morning.”

   “But I don’t understand you were upset with me. When had you decided you wanted me as your wife?” Sarah asked.

   “Honestly the first night you were here, if I am truly honest with myself, but I decided this morning I could not live without you as my wife for one more day. When you were pounding on my bedroom door and I opened the door naked, I could see it in your eyes you felt the same way for me.” Devon kissed her and then pulled back. “I am sorry for hurting you Sarah. I have never felt this way before and I-”

   Sarah stopped him with her lips. She broke their kiss and said, “I would have waited my whole life to hear you say that, Dev.”

   Devon thought he could not love her more than he already did. She had just made his heart leap again. “I am the luckiest man alive.”

   “Yes you are Mr. Price.”