Love In Strange Places Read online

  She turned, smiling. “Really?”

  “Yes really,” he laughed. “That cause is close to my heart too.”

  “I wish I could do more financially.”

  “Every bit counts.” He stood. “I’ll be right back. I’m going to check on Makayla and Matthew.”

  Moments later he came in and just watched her from afar. What if? He thought, but then shook his head. He could get used to having a woman permanently in his life, not just one to warm his bed. “She’s knocked out. You didn’t have to wash the dishes.”

  “I know, but this is my way of saying thank you for dinner.” She rinsed the last plate.

  He moved closer to her. “I enjoyed spending time with you. Maybe we should do dinner again sometime.”

  “Maybe.” She turned, drying her hands on a towel.

  The doorbell rang. “I hope its Matt and Shannon.” Andrew said as he walked toward the door.

  He opened it. “I guess she stopped crying,” Leann said, entering his house. “Sorry it took me so long to get here.”

  “No worries.” He replied.

  Sherry stepped out of the kitchen. “Hi, Leann,” she said, tightly and grabbed her purse off the table. “Bye, Andrew.” She glared at him as she passed by and went down the stairs without a backward glance.

  “Sherry!” He raised his voice. She stopped and looked back. “What if she wakes up?”

  She continued on her way and yelled, loud enough the neighbors would hear her. “You have Leann to help you.”

  Chapter Three

  Andrew sat on his bed, watching Leann while she slept. She was beautiful, but he knew there wasn’t a future between them. She’d told him from the get-go their relationship wouldn’t become serious because she’d just come out of a nasty divorce. He’d agreed. He hadn’t been looking for a relationship, himself, but now things had changed. He wanted more.

  Leann began waking up. “Good morning.” She smiled.

  “Good morning.”

  “What time is it?”

  “Five thirty.” He said, getting out of his bed.

  She sat up. “I have to leave before my ex comes by with the kids.”

  “What time is he bringing them?”

  “At eight,” she got up and began putting on her clothes.

  He went into the bathroom, and did his morning ritual, then peeked out. “Have a good day.”

  She put her hair in a ponytail and pick up her purse. “You too.”

  He stepped out of the bathroom. “Leann.”

  “Yes.”

  “We need to talk.”

  “I cant right now. I have to get home before my ex finds out I’ve been gone all night, he’ll hold it against me.”

  “I’ll call you.” She turned and left his room. He heard the front door shut. I have to stop this…

  The ringing of the phone startled him. Who could it be so damn early? “Hello.”

  “Hi, Andrew.” Shannon’s bubbly voice echoed through.

  He smiled. She was always so happy, even with everything she’d gone through, but she’d beat the cancer and was still winning, having marked another year cancer-free. “Hi, sis! Why are you calling so early? Is everything okay?”

  “Nothing’s wrong. I’m on my way to work and knew you would be getting ready too.”

  “Okay.” She was up to something.

  “We’re going to Vegas for our anniversary and wanted to know—”

  “Yes, I’ll babysit, but you better make sure she’s not sick.”

  “That’s not why I’m calling. I wanted to know if you would come along? And before you say no, we got a suite with three rooms, and Matt really wants you to come. You wouldn’t say no to your little brother, would you?”

  He laughed. “Nope. I’m not going to be a third wheel. Anyways, it’s your anniversary. You should enjoy each other.”

  “We’ll enjoy each other plenty. I told you we got a big suite with three rooms, and you won’t be the third wheel, because Sherry is coming along.” There was a moment of silence. “So, what do you say?”

  “Okay, let me know the days.”

  ***

  Shannon smiled when she hung up with Andrew. “Yes. One down and one to go.” Her plan was working. Matt didn’t know what she was up to, and she prayed Sherry would say yes. “No time like the present.”

  She hummed as she dialed Sherry.

  “What do you want, Shannon? It’s too early in the morning.”

  “Dang, you would think you’d be happy to hear from your only sister.”

  “Yes, dear loving sister, what can I do for you?” She giggled.

  Here goes. “We’re going to Vegas for our anniversary and wanted to know if you—”

  “Yes, I’ll babysit.”

  “What is up with everybody thinking I need them to babysit?” She sighed. “No, silly, I wanted to know if you would like to come.”

  “Shannon, it’s your anniversary, not mine. I don’t think your husband would appreciate you inviting me, so my answer is no.”

  “But Andrew’s coming.”

  There was a moment of silence.

  “We got us a huge suite. Please say yes….” She giggled, covering her mouth. “Please…its been a long time since we partied without the kids.”

  “I’ll see if I can get some time off.”

  “I already talked to Tiffany, and she doesn’t have a problem covering for you, and anyway you never take time off. I already got your tickets. Bye.” She hung up before her sister could change her mind, but that had been too easy. Sherry became very quiet when she’d mentioned Andrew. The spark was there. Shannon had seen the change in both of them at the wedding. She just needed to get them together, away from it all.

  Chapter Four

  Andrew thought about what he’d just done. He’d called Sherry and told her something was wrong with his computer—and he needed her help. She was hesitant until he told her he had a huge case and everything was in a file in his computer. What he didn’t tell her was that he’d pulled the plug that connects the monitor to hard drive.

  His secretary buzzed. “There’s a Ms. Jones here to see you. She says you called her to fix your computer, but I told her that couldn’t be, because we have our own IT department here.”

  “Nancy, do you remember the last time the IT department fixed your computer?”

  “Yes,” she answered.

  “We had to order you a new one,” he laughed. “Send her in.”

  The doorknob opened and Sherry entered, looking sexy in a black pin-striped pencil skirt, white blouse, and black pumps that showed off those sexy, toned chocolate calves. His gaze rolled over her entire body.

  Her eyes shot daggers at him. “Your secretary needs training in customer service.” She placed her left hand on her hip, and pointed her index finger with the other hand.

  “I’m sorry about that.” He stood.

  “But she did make sense. Why call me when you have your own IT department?” She looked at him with one eyebrow arched. “I work, too….”

  He moved from behind his desk. “You said you’re the best at what you do.”

  “I am.” She moved closer.

  “I needed the best. Those files are very important.”

  “For some reason, I don’t believe you.”

  He smirked. “Please take a look.” He said, pointing at his computer.

  She went around his desk, sat, and powered the computer on and waited, glaring up at him.

  “So, I hear your going to Vegas.” He said, staring her down.

  “I am.” She began messing with the keyboard. “I’m a single woman. It’s time I let go and have fun.”

  “For how long?” he whispered. She didn’t hear him.

  “Wait.” She stopped what she was doing, and looked up at him. “I thought you were going.”

  “I am.”

  Her smile. Damn, she has the sweetest smile. She touched the buttons around the computer, checked the back, and then got down on
all fours and went under the desk.

  He couldn’t resist. He moved slightly to watch her ass. Her ass was bigger than what he was used to, but he would give anything right now to smack or squeeze it.

  “Andrew!” she said, kneeling up to look at him, with a cord thrust outward in her hand. “This VGA plug wasn’t connected to your CPU.” She said, annoyed. “I wonder how that happened?”

  He gave her an innocent smile. “I have no idea.”

  “Well, your computer is fixed.” She stood, straightening her skirt.

  “How much do I owe you?”

  “Whatever. I don’t charge family.” She said, coming around the desk.

  “I’m considered your family.”

  “You know what I mean. I have to get to work.” She said, passing him.

  He grasped her arm.

  “Thank you.” He moved his hand down to hers, and he could see her blushing. “Why did you leave the other night?”

  She was so still, like she was afraid to move. She swallowed. “Obviously, you called Leann before me, but she couldn’t make it, so you called me, and anyway, I just didn’t want to be in the way.”

  He squeezed her hand gently. “You assumed that I called her first, but I didn’t. I called you first, but you hung up on me. I didn’t think you were coming, so I called her. She has kids, and would know what to do.”

  She tried to pull away, but he stopped her.

  “You do know what they say about assuming.” He released her hand and tilted her chin.

  Her eyes told him she wanted the same thing he wanted. “Don’t run away from me.” He said, lowering his head until their lips barely touched. At that moment his office door opened wide.

  “Mr. Johnston, your client is here,” his secretary said, holding a notepad in her hands.

  He sighed and gazed at Sherry, trying to convey how sorry he was for their interruption. He turned and glared at Nancy. “Next time, knock on the freaking door. Do you hear me?” He raised his voice.

  “Yes, sir.” She spoke the words but did not move.

  “Leave!” he yelled.

  Nancy was about to close the office door, when Sherry stepped back. “I have to go.” She took long strides out his office.

  “Sherry!” he called, but she was already down the hall.

  In Vegas, all bets are off.

  Chapter Five

  What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas—but not this time.

  “Shannon, why did you have to invite them on our anniversary getaway?” Matt asked his wife, watching his brother Andrew, who was gawking at his sister-in-law.

  Shannon put her hands around her husband’s neck. “I just thought they needed some time away, too.”

  “This is supposed to be our celebration.”

  “It is.” She kissed his lips.

  “Please stop playing matchmaker.” He kissed her back, placing his hands around her waist. “One moment they like each other and then the next they hate each other.”

  “I think they will make a powerful couple. Matt, they have so much in common, but they are too strong-headed to notice. They just need a push.”

  “And this is the little push.”

  She gave him an innocent smile.

  He held her tighter. “No more talk about them. Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?”

  Shannon had put her hair up in a high ponytail, and had decided on a strapless black dress with four-inch sandals.

  “Yes, but you can tell me again.” She smiled.

  “Estas bella.”

  “Gracias.” She answered back in her Spanish accent.

  “I thank God every day for giving us a second chance in love and life. You and the kids are my world.” He leaned his head down and kissed her neck. “I love you, mamita.”

  “I love you too, papi. You’ve given me so much.” She turned around in his arms, staring at her sister having fun. “That’s what I want for Sherry. She deserves it.”

  ***

  Andrew drank his second vodka and coke, staring at Sherry, grinding on the dance floor. She’d avoided him since they’d arrived. It seemed like she was running from him. Her moves were intoxicating, driving him crazy, steering up things he shouldn’t be feeling for her. She’d recently cut her hair shorter, tapered in the back and longer in the front into a V-cut. He usually went for women with long hair, but the short haircut made her look sexier. She wore a long-sleeved white top that revealed her cleavage, a short black skirt, and sexy white and black pumps.

  He clenched his jaw as he turned. “Shannon, you need to get your sister.”

  Shannon and Matt both looked over at the dance floor. “She’s not doing anything wrong. She’s having fun.” She said, turning back around.

  “Matt, tell your wife to get her sister.” Andrew glared at his brother.

  “What is she doing wrong?” Matt asked.

  “She’s making a fool of herself.”

  Matt was about to say something as his wife began to talk. “Look, Andrew, if you have a problem with how my sister is acting, you go tell her.” Shannon said with a smirk.

  Andrew swallowed the last gulp of his drink, set the glass down, and marched over to the dance floor. He stared at Sherry for a minute as she moved her body in a sensual way, moving down and up, and then he grabbed her arm.

  She turned angrily, apparently not knowing who’d touched her. “What the hell are you doing?” Her gaze met his.

  “You’re making a fool of yourself.”

  “I’m dancing.” She tried to tug away from him, but he wouldn’t release her.

  “Sherry, let’s go.” He tried to move her, but she stood her ground.

  “Is there a problem?” The guy she’d partnered with stopped dancing.

  Andrew glared at him. “She’s with me.” He answered in a stern voice, making sure the guy understood he wasn’t playing around.

  The guy shook his head and walked off.

  “What’s your problem?”

  He stared at her. She’s so damn sexy. Everything about her turned him on.

  Sherry continued dancing, and tried to grab his hand. “Dance with me, then.”

  “No….”

  She stopped dancing, rolled her eyes, and glared up at him. “I asked you to dance and you’re saying no. I guess you can’t handle me.” His hold on her got a little tighter and pulled her out of the hotel club to the lobby. “You’re hurting me.”

  He released her. “You think I can’t handle you?”

  Sherry just stared at him with her mouth slightly agape.

  He took one swift move and began devouring her mouth. He teased her tongue with his, tasting chocolate and rum. He explored every corner of her mouth and luscious lips. He couldn’t stop himself even if he wanted to.

  If he’d known a kiss would shut her up, he would’ve kissed her long time ago.

  She hesitated at first, but then her hands came up to his chest.

  He leaned back slightly. “You still believe I can’t handle you?” He said, between breaths.

  She seemed off balance, placed her fingers to her mouth. “You’re such a jerk.”

  He gave her a deep chuckle. “A jerk that has you weak with desire.” He said, moving back.

  She moved forward. “Kiss me again.”

  “Is that you talking or the liquor?” He asked, cupping her face.

  “Me,” she whispered.

  Andrew leaned in. This time he was gentle, making love to her mouth. She guided her tongue in the same rhythm as his. He grabbed her tighter, not leaving any space between them.

  “I think we need to stop.” He whispered against her lips.

  “I want more.” She said, catching her breath. “I know what I want, and I’m not afraid to voice it.”

  He stared into her brown eyes. “What do you want?”

  “Let’s go upstairs, and I’ll show you.”

  He took her hand and rushed to the elevator, pushed the open button, and ushered her in when it opened.
As soon as the doors were closed, he pinned her against the wall. “You don’t know what you’re getting yourself into.” His hands went up her thighs; he kissed her neck, making her moan.

  “Andrew, this doesn’t change anything.” She said, between kisses.

  He laughed. “I think it does.”

  The doors opened on their floor and he continued to kiss her, walking her backward to their suite. He searched for his room key, but he couldn’t stop nibbling on her neck and collarbone.

  “Mmm, I’ll get it.” She dug her hand into his pocket and found a bigger surprise. “Damn!”

  He smiled. Finding the key in his wallet, he swiped the door open. He couldn’t make it to the bedroom. He stopped kissing her and with no shame, stripped down to his Calvin Klein boxers. She just stared at him with her mouth agape, staring at his body with a slight smile.

  “Oh God, you have a wonderful body.” She stepped back. “Now I’m ashamed to undress in front of you.” She said, all of a sudden looking shy. “Maybe this was a mistake.”

  He couldn’t believe what she’d just said. Where was the smart-ass, headstrong, full-of-herself, confident woman he was used to? For the first time, he saw Sherry in a different light and he didn’t like it.

  He moved behind her. “Sherry, you’re sexy.” He moved his hands over her thighs and ass. “Every inch of you.” He kissed her neck. “Don’t ever be ashamed or shy in front of me.”

  That seemed to be all she needed to hear. She moaned, backing up into his embrace.

  He began to peel off her clothes, starting with her shirt, slowly taking the material down her shoulders and arms, exposing her back. He threw the top on the floor, then he continued to her skirt, kissing his way down her body. Moving in front of her, he looked at her mocha body in white lace underwear. She was beautiful—yes, she was a little thicker than the women he dated—but there was something about her. The way she carried herself, maybe. No other woman made him mad and hot at the same time.

  He gazed into her eyes, and he could see she was nervous. “Don’t you dare change your mind.”

  “Believe me, I won’t.” She said, taking off her bra and then her panties, closing the distance between them. She put her hands in his hair. “Promise you won’t regret this in the morning.” She kissed him.