Page 41 of Richard

But to her surprise, she realized that she wanted to stay; the idea of leaving did not appeal to her. So, what if she gives into her needs? What if it didn’t last? At least for the first time, she was doing what she wanted.

She was spending a glorious night and day with an amazing man. It did not matter if she had just met him, and technically, he was her employer. It also did not matter that he was ridiculously rich and very famous. She deserved this after the hell she had gone through.

And she was going to enjoy every moment of it while it lasted.

*****

“We are in Vermont.” She had been literally swept off her feet. After a delicious breakfast of the most delicious scones, eggs, crispy bacon, and light toast with strawberry jam, he had rushed her into the bathroom where she had been dazzled by the huge shower install and the bath that could comfortably hold six people easily.

By the time they had finished bathing, it had taken almost half an hour because he insisted on using the sponge on every inch of her skin and then making love to her with her body pressed against the tiles.

By that time, her clothes had arrived, an entire suitcase filled with every necessity. She had chosen a pair of faded designer jeans, a red and gold sweater and a pair of brown ankle boots that were as soft as butter.

A stunning cashmere jacket had been included in the package, as well as a matching scarf. He had hustled her out of the loft and into his sports car, where they had arrived at a private airfieldwith his pilot waiting for them.

“Where are we going?”

“It’s a surprise.”

“There is no place like Vermont in the fall.” Taking her hand, he led the way toward a barn-like structure situated between towering trees of the most stunning array of fall colors. It was breathtaking and wrapped up as she was in her brand-new jacket, she did not feel the cold and was able to enjoy the incredible setting.

“Who owns this place?”

“A friend of mine.” He led the way toward the building and opened the door to a cozy interior that smelled of pinewood and fire blazing in the hearth.

“I wanted to be alone with you.” Turning her to face him, he unwound the scarf from around her neck and took off her jacket. “You were concerned about being seen with me, and I want to spend the entire day—just us.”

He drew her into the cozy living area and sat on the old leather sofa, pulling her down on his lap. Collette settled back against him, mesmerized by the flames and the surroundings.

“You had someone come by to do all this?”

“Yes. The place is always readied in case someone wants to use it. There is a caretaker who sees to the maintenance. With just one phone call, this was done. His wife brought over a meal for us, and it's warmer.”

She turned her head to look at him. “We are spending the night?”

He nodded. “I want to make love to you by the fire.” He trailed a finger over her cheek. “I want to see the glow of the flames onyour beautiful skin. Can you ride?”

“What?” She blinked at the sudden change of subject.

“There is a barn filled with horses and I thought if you were up to the challenge, we could go for a ride.”

“I am not an excellent horsewoman, but I can manage.”

“I’ll find a docile enough one to suit you.” He grinned at her, the smile fading as he stared at her lips. “I want you.”

Her breath was caught inside her throat at the naked yearning on his face.

“Richard–”

“Hmm?” He was busy tugging her sweater over her head and dropping it on the sofa.

“I– Oh.” Her body arched when he circled her already rigid nipple with his finger. “I love the fact that you are always ready for me. As I am for you.” He eased his hips upward so that she could feel his arousal.

“Richard, Oh God! It’s too much.”

“Never too much, baby.” He sucked her nipple through the thin lace of her bra.

“I was planning on giving you the tour or even going for a walk, but that will have to wait.” Dragging the blankets from off the top of the sofa, he put her aside long enough to spread them in front of the blazing fire. Stacking cushions on the blankets, he came toward her and drew her to her feet.

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