K. Larsen's Blog - Posts Tagged "teaser"
30 Days
Hi all, just a quick little teaser of what I'm working on next! Enjoy.
The list! I can't forget the list. I rip it from the wall fold it up and stuff it in my sports bra. My heart is beating wildly in my chest. I feel frantic and I’m starting to sweat. I pull on my hoodie sans hood strings of course, slip my feet into my laceless Keds and make my way to Manny’s sleeping form.
It’s eerily quiet in the corridor right now. Just the faint hum of the ice machine and various beeps and buzzes from patients rooms. I quietly sneak around the nurses station desk and crouch down to Manny. I’m so sorry. I really do like you. Please forgive me. I tug his wallet out of his back pocket and remove all the cash. A hundred dollars will be plenty to tie me over until the morning. I stuff the cash in my sports bra. I unclip Manny’s employee badge from the front of his shirt, toss the wallet on the desk next to his head and quickly walk down the hall.
Every noise, every beep, every voice makes me panic and stop moving. I press myself into the wall until I’m sure it’s nothing. This is crazy Elle. What are you doing? I silently scold myself. When I’m sure the coast is clear I walk to the main doors of our floor and hold Manny’s badge up to the magnetic reader. A slight click alerts me that all I have to do is push the door in front of me and I’m as good as free. My hand shakes as I raise it up to the door. It feels heavy and like someone else's arm. With my palm on the door I lean into my arm slightly until it opens just enough for me to slip through.
I try to walk as inconspicuously as possible to the elevators and punch the down button. There is no one in the hallways except a few passing laundry aids who pay me no mind. The fact that I’m wearing scrubs, a hoodie and white sneakers is probably my only saving grace. I blend in pretty well. The elevator dings and the doors open. I put one foot in front of the other until I’m safely inside before hitting the lobby button. My skin feels like its on fire. My breath is quick and shallow and my heart is beating so fiercely in my rib cage that I’m afraid it might crack bone.
The elevator dings and the doors slide open. I step out of the metal box turn left and keeping my head down head for the glass front doors. The fifty foot walk seems to take forever. There is a woman sitting behind the information desk who’s watching me. I tilt my head up and smile at her. She smiles back. The revolving doors close around me as I step into their spin and then I’m out.
The list! I can't forget the list. I rip it from the wall fold it up and stuff it in my sports bra. My heart is beating wildly in my chest. I feel frantic and I’m starting to sweat. I pull on my hoodie sans hood strings of course, slip my feet into my laceless Keds and make my way to Manny’s sleeping form.
It’s eerily quiet in the corridor right now. Just the faint hum of the ice machine and various beeps and buzzes from patients rooms. I quietly sneak around the nurses station desk and crouch down to Manny. I’m so sorry. I really do like you. Please forgive me. I tug his wallet out of his back pocket and remove all the cash. A hundred dollars will be plenty to tie me over until the morning. I stuff the cash in my sports bra. I unclip Manny’s employee badge from the front of his shirt, toss the wallet on the desk next to his head and quickly walk down the hall.
Every noise, every beep, every voice makes me panic and stop moving. I press myself into the wall until I’m sure it’s nothing. This is crazy Elle. What are you doing? I silently scold myself. When I’m sure the coast is clear I walk to the main doors of our floor and hold Manny’s badge up to the magnetic reader. A slight click alerts me that all I have to do is push the door in front of me and I’m as good as free. My hand shakes as I raise it up to the door. It feels heavy and like someone else's arm. With my palm on the door I lean into my arm slightly until it opens just enough for me to slip through.
I try to walk as inconspicuously as possible to the elevators and punch the down button. There is no one in the hallways except a few passing laundry aids who pay me no mind. The fact that I’m wearing scrubs, a hoodie and white sneakers is probably my only saving grace. I blend in pretty well. The elevator dings and the doors open. I put one foot in front of the other until I’m safely inside before hitting the lobby button. My skin feels like its on fire. My breath is quick and shallow and my heart is beating so fiercely in my rib cage that I’m afraid it might crack bone.
The elevator dings and the doors slide open. I step out of the metal box turn left and keeping my head down head for the glass front doors. The fifty foot walk seems to take forever. There is a woman sitting behind the information desk who’s watching me. I tilt my head up and smile at her. She smiles back. The revolving doors close around me as I step into their spin and then I’m out.
Finally!
Well 30 Days is finished and now I'm in the process of editing! Hoping to release it in February!
I also have a website now! http://ferrarik.wix.com/klarsen
Here's a little excerpt from 30 Days;
“Hey.” A voice calls. I ignore it because obviously they couldn't be talking to me. “Hey, excuse me.” I stop and turn towards the voice. Two light blue eyes on a handsome face meet mine.
“Hello?” I ask.
“Would you like to join us for a drink?” He asks as he motions to the other two guys. I feel a smile creep over my face. They are hitting on me! “Um, thanks for the offer but no.” I retort.
“Oh come on, you don't look like you’re in a rush. Just sit with us.” Blue eyes says.
“Why?”
“Why not?” He counters. I shrug trying to come up with a reason but the white noise and chatter of the restaurant distracts me.
“Ok, one beer.” I give in and three good looking men smile and point to the empty stool at the end of their row. Blue eyes is clearly the outgoing one, tall and confident. He is now sitting furthest from me. In the middle sits a dark haired stocky man who has a friendly face. Next to me is, I guess, the quiet one. He nods his head at me when I sit down and I can’t figure it out but I’m intrigued at his quiet demeanor. He, like blue eyes is tall and well built. The three of them are dressed casually but all look like they spend ten hours a day at a gym. Their shirts stretch tightly around their biceps and chests. The quiet one has light brown hair and the strangest hazel eyes I’ve ever seen. They’re captivating. He hasn't said anything yet but I feel strangely connected to him. Comforted in his presence.
“Ben.” The outgoing one says.
“Hi Ben.” I say leaning forward to see him.
“John.” The stocky middle guy shakes my hand. “Nice to meet you.”
“Hey. I’m Elle.” I say to the three of them.
“Colin. Hi.” Hazel eyes lock on mine as he reaches his hand out to me. I shake it. The contact makes my body tingle like chemicals colliding. His eyes widen slightly as if he feels it too.
Whatever feeling it is startles me and I drop his hand. He only said hello but his eyes look like coming home. It takes me by surprise and I’m not prepared for it. Immediately I feel out of place. I don’t want a beer. I feel panic coming on. I slide off my seat and stand nervously shaking my head, Colin’s hazel eyes never leaving mine as he stares at me with curiosity.
“Sorry guys, but I think I need to head home, maybe another time. It was nice meeting you though.” I excuse myself and quickly dart out of the restaurant before they have a chance to say anything.
What is wrong with me?
I also have a website now! http://ferrarik.wix.com/klarsen
Here's a little excerpt from 30 Days;
“Hey.” A voice calls. I ignore it because obviously they couldn't be talking to me. “Hey, excuse me.” I stop and turn towards the voice. Two light blue eyes on a handsome face meet mine.
“Hello?” I ask.
“Would you like to join us for a drink?” He asks as he motions to the other two guys. I feel a smile creep over my face. They are hitting on me! “Um, thanks for the offer but no.” I retort.
“Oh come on, you don't look like you’re in a rush. Just sit with us.” Blue eyes says.
“Why?”
“Why not?” He counters. I shrug trying to come up with a reason but the white noise and chatter of the restaurant distracts me.
“Ok, one beer.” I give in and three good looking men smile and point to the empty stool at the end of their row. Blue eyes is clearly the outgoing one, tall and confident. He is now sitting furthest from me. In the middle sits a dark haired stocky man who has a friendly face. Next to me is, I guess, the quiet one. He nods his head at me when I sit down and I can’t figure it out but I’m intrigued at his quiet demeanor. He, like blue eyes is tall and well built. The three of them are dressed casually but all look like they spend ten hours a day at a gym. Their shirts stretch tightly around their biceps and chests. The quiet one has light brown hair and the strangest hazel eyes I’ve ever seen. They’re captivating. He hasn't said anything yet but I feel strangely connected to him. Comforted in his presence.
“Ben.” The outgoing one says.
“Hi Ben.” I say leaning forward to see him.
“John.” The stocky middle guy shakes my hand. “Nice to meet you.”
“Hey. I’m Elle.” I say to the three of them.
“Colin. Hi.” Hazel eyes lock on mine as he reaches his hand out to me. I shake it. The contact makes my body tingle like chemicals colliding. His eyes widen slightly as if he feels it too.
Whatever feeling it is startles me and I drop his hand. He only said hello but his eyes look like coming home. It takes me by surprise and I’m not prepared for it. Immediately I feel out of place. I don’t want a beer. I feel panic coming on. I slide off my seat and stand nervously shaking my head, Colin’s hazel eyes never leaving mine as he stares at me with curiosity.
“Sorry guys, but I think I need to head home, maybe another time. It was nice meeting you though.” I excuse myself and quickly dart out of the restaurant before they have a chance to say anything.
What is wrong with me?
Teaser: Committed (30 Days book 2)
I had come back to the cottage to find the door open. The panic and dread that had filled me almost knocked the wind out of me. Elle’s purse sat on the kitchen counter and there was blood on the kitchen floor. Not a ton of blood but blood nonetheless. Retracing my steps and screaming for Elle I noticed more blood in the entryway just before the door. My heart had beaten so frantically that I clutched my chest to make sure it wasn't ripping through my ribs. Elle was gone. Elle had struggled. There was blood. I tagged my phone from my pocket and had called Jenna first hoping that she was there. That she was safe. She wasn't. Rage tore through me and I’d punched a hole in the bathroom door. I was frantic and wild with distress. Jenna had immediately hung up, called the police and Ben, and come over.
Ben and Jenna arrived at the same time followed shortly by the police to find me a sobbing wreck in the living room. I had failed her when she needed me most. The guilt of that swallowed me up whole and tore me apart. Jenna had managed to console me long enough to tell the police what I knew, which wasn't much.
30 Days
Ben and Jenna arrived at the same time followed shortly by the police to find me a sobbing wreck in the living room. I had failed her when she needed me most. The guilt of that swallowed me up whole and tore me apart. Jenna had managed to console me long enough to tell the police what I knew, which wasn't much.
30 Days
Committed a lil' more....
“I have to pack up her stuff.” I blurted to no one in particular.
“I’ll help you.” Jenna offered up.
Sure as shit the deposit bag tucked away in Elle’s closet held at least forty thousand dollars in cash. Jenna had dropped onto the bed staring at it in awe. We managed to pack up everything in under two hours and haul it back to my place. I stowed the deposit bag in my gun safe feeling guilty for having it at all. I didn't want money, I wanted Elle.
“I’ll help you.” Jenna offered up.
Sure as shit the deposit bag tucked away in Elle’s closet held at least forty thousand dollars in cash. Jenna had dropped onto the bed staring at it in awe. We managed to pack up everything in under two hours and haul it back to my place. I stowed the deposit bag in my gun safe feeling guilty for having it at all. I didn't want money, I wanted Elle.
Tug of War Chapter One....
Bars & Barf
Eventually I’ll get to the bar, hopefully before last call but at this rate my chances are looking slim. I should have done what Marg did and ordered two drinks knowing how busy the club would be on a Friday night but I didn't. I’m sweaty from dancing with my girls in the throng of people crowding the dance floor. Without warning my hair is swept off my back and over my left shoulder. Hanging to my shoulder blades, it’s hot and heavy, the movement creates a breeze on my neck that feels good but who the hell just touched me so intimately? I stiffen as warm breath blows over my shoulder.
“Could I interest you in a drink?” Comes a deep rough voice in my ear. I swing around shooting steel daggers and find myself eye level with a broad chest. Tilting my head back I look up to an extremely handsome, tan chiseled face.
“Excuse me?” I snap. He smirks. My snarky inner bitch already hates him.
“I’d like to buy you a drink.” His deep vibrato sends chills down my spine which surprises me.
“Oh?” I quirk a well groomed eyebrow at him.
“Yes, what would you like?” I want to smack the smug look off his face. I hate arrogance and entitlement and this dude oozes it.
“I’d like to not be manhandled by a stranger.” I snark.
“My apologies, but I’ve been watching you and I couldn't resist.” He steps closer to me.
“Creepy.” I quip taking a step back. Mystery man reaches out grabbing me at the elbow.
“Let me get you a drink.” He pleads a little more sternly.
“Why?”
“Why not?” He questions looking amused.
“Persistent aren’t we?” My voice is laced with disdain.
“Yes. I’ve been called that.” He grins. His eyes lighten slightly with his smile. He really is attractive.
“Give me one good reason.” I offer sarcastically. The corners of his mouth drop and his brows furrow.
“You intrigue me.” He says finally.
“That’s hardly a good reason Mr...” I snort and wait. His lips twitch.
“Mr. Napoli and I’d like to get to know you Ms...” He counters.
“Lord. Ms. Lord. You don’t know me but I can assure you I’m stunningly average in all areas of life.” I inform him.
“I beg to differ.” He argues. Man this guy is relentless and totally hot for himself. Anyone who thinks so much of themselves must be a catch, I snicker to myself sarcastically. Stepping in close to him I place my hand on his hard chest and smooth his tie with my hand. Who wears a suit to a club anyways? He grins at the contact and his eyes go dark as if I’m his prey. I fist the tie and tug gently until his tall firm frame bends to my five foot four level and bring my mouth to his ear. “You can differ all you like but only I know the truth.” I purr. Releasing his tie I turn on my bootheel and stalk back to my girls fuming about that stupidly hot, I’m so full of myself I could get any girl and I will jerk. I plop down in my chair irritated and start ranting.
“Remind me why they don’t offer clubs that only let women in?” I ask sarcastically. Two dolled up ladies stare at me wide eyed. “Uh...what?” I ask noticing their faces.
“Do you have any idea who you were talking too?! What did he want?!” Marg screeches.
“He wanted to buy me a drink and who the hell is he?” I bark back.
“Clara... do you live under a rock? That’s Dominic Napoli, real estate mogul, one of Boston’s ten most successful businessmen under forty. Didn’t you read the article I emailed you?” Amanda looks at me like I’ve lost my mind. I did read it, but I read it because she wrote it, I didn’t really absorb or pay attention to the photos or why those guys were worth reading about. She knows I could give a crap about rich men.
“I guess I skipped his bio?” I shrug still not sure why it’s that awesome that I met him. Sure he’s successful but I don’t care about money and prestige. I’m not that into appearances and mingling with the right people. Been there, done that.
“Ladies. Mr. Napoli sends his regards. Please enjoy the wine.” The bartender interrupts us placing a very expensive bottle of white wine on the table with three glasses.
“Man what a jerk!” I cry in frustration.
“Shut up Clara.” Amanda hisses horrified. Marg ignores me and dives into the wine.
“I told him I didn't want a drink from him and what does he do? He does it anyways. This,” I gesture to the wine, “is sneaky and backhanded. Now it doesn't matter if I said no, he’s made it look all good natured. Pompass ass.” I ramble my irritation.
“Shut up and drink.” Marg laughs.
“Fine, but it’s consumption under protest.” I state and relax a little. What I really want to do is strut over to that cocky jerk and hand him his bottle of wine back while giving him a piece of my mind. What part of, no means no, is so hard to understand? Icona Pop’s I Love It starts. This is my jam. I flat out love this song and I immediately jump up, snag the bottle of wine, leaving both girls screeching and hit the dance floor. Shrugging at each other Amanda and Marg follow and the three of us jump around shouting the words to the song and shaking our hips.
Taking a pull directly from the wine bottle I notice Mr. Napoli watching from the VIP section. He’s really quite handsome, it’s a shame really. If he’d been that handsome and an average Joe maybe he would have gotten lucky tonight but my pure hatred of wealth and all that comes with it makes him off limits. I toss my head back and take another pull before passing the bottle to Marg as Wild Ones starts and I lose myself in the music. Three songs later Amanda tugs on my arm wanting my attention.
“What’s up?” I shout above the music.
“Marg and I want to hit up The Harp.”
“‘K, let’s go.” I shout back and follow them to our table to collect our things. The wine bottle passes between the three of us again polishing it off.
I have a serious buzz at this point which was my entire goal for tonight and tomorrow night. I’m only in town for the weekend and wanted a wild girls weekend with my two favorite ladies. I haven’t seen them in forever but work brought me back to Beantown finally so I’d emailed them both seeing if they were up for a couple nights on the town with me.
“How’s Alliecat and Sawyer?” Marg asks.
“Allie’s amazing per usual and Sawyer,” I sigh. “Sawyer is the only reason I was able to come. I don't know what I’d do without him.” Amanda and Marg shoot loving looks at me before we head into The Harp.
“God! I missed this place.” I squeal. “Is The Zoo playing tonight?” Marg and Amanda both double over laughing at me. “What?”
“Do you really think eight years later they’re still playing here?” Amanda chuckles.
“Oh. Right. Guess it’s been a while.”
“Yeah, a while is an understatement Clara.” Marg quips at me.
“I know, I know, but you guys know why I had to leave.” I throw my hands up in defense.
“Yes, we do and we understand. We’re just happy to have you for the weekend babe!” I get double teamed by my girls in a giant hug and can't help but giggle with them. It really has been too long. I’ve missed out on a lot in their lives. We email, text and call but it’s not the same really and lord knows they’ve missed out on my life. It is was it is though and I did what I had to do and never looked back and I’m happy with my life now.
Cramming into a table for two we order three beers and wait for the band to come on. “So how was the exhibition today?” Marg asks.
“It went really well. I mingled with some other people in the Virginia area too. Hopefully it will drum up some new business.”
“Is the shop turning a profit that you can live on now?” Amanda inquires.
“Yeah, it has been for a while. We’re really starting to get busy. Sawyer and I might need to bring in a third artist. That was the other part of coming to the show today, I wanted to scope out some talent.”
“Well it sounds like things have really come together for you. I’m happy.” Marg smiles approvingly. It’s nice to know they support me. Eight years ago, hell five years ago if you’d asked me if I would be running my own shop and making money doing it I would have laughed in your face.
“Thanks.” I smile.
“Any of you ladies care to dance?” A stocky guy with a bad teenage mustache asks. I snort and shake my head no while Marg looks like she wants to hide under the table and never look at his face again and Amanda, oh boy, she looks like she’s ready to give the guy hell. “You have balls I’ll give you that. What are you? Eighteen? Twenty? How’d you get in here? The street lights are on it’s past your bedtime.” She flicks her wrist shooing him away as I burst into laughter. “What? We’re cougars but we still have standards.” She giggles.
“Cougars? Seriously since when does thirty two put you in cougar territory?” I chortle.
“When the boys hitting on you are a decade or more younger than you. That’s when.” Marg finally lifts her eyes. “Is creepy mustache gone?” We all double over with laughter as we sip our beers.
As the band steps onto the stage and starts to play their nineties cover songs I think back to when this was the norm in my life. College had been a blast and these two girls had been my partners in crime for four years and change. I really did miss them and having time to just be crazy and wild and free.
Marg tugs me to my feet and stumbles a little. I’m really glad I wore my cowboy boots instead of heels. Sure I probably stick out like a sore thumb but I’m comfortable, can dance and will still be able to walk home without my feet feeling like they are bleeding. Hey Jealousy ends and Laid starts and I can’t help but be swept away in the moment. I feel carefree and eighteen again.
Mid song I’m singing my heart out jumping around wildly having the best time ever when two large hands grip my waist. His fingers splay wide holding me firmly. I feel a tingle course through my body at the contact. My hormones go into overdrive at the long forgotten feeling of being held by a man like this. I stiffen and stand stalk still enjoying the sensation before realizing that I have no male counterpart with me. Don’t Stop Believing starts just as I whip around to face my grabby fan. “We meet again Ms. Lord.” Dominic says coyly. His hands are scorching my sides as I stare up into his dark eyes. He’s so attractive. His black hair is perfectly coiffed and his suit looks like it was tailor made just for him. I’m sure I’m staring like an idiot but the beer has officially sent me one sheet past three to the wind and I can’t form a witty retort. Instead I stare dreamily, like a reject, at the chiseled face before me. I can’t be sure but I think I even sigh. He smiles widely at me and I blink.
Gathering myself I pull out of his grip and in my drunken stupor stumble backwards landing on the stage. The lead singer takes this as an invitation and hauls me to my feet. Figuring what the hell I rip the mic from his hands and start belting out the song. “Working hard to get my fill, everybody wants a thrill. Payin' anything to roll the dice, just one more time. Some will win, some will lose. Some were born to sing the blues. Oh, the movie never ends, it goes on and on and on and on...” The mic is stolen away as the chorus begins and he holds the mic out to the crowd. Amanda and Marg yank me down from the stage barely containing their laughter at my show.
“What the hell Clara?!” Amanda can barely contain her laughter.
“Yeah Clara, I had no idea you were a rock star.” A booming deep voice calls out. Marg and Amanda spin around and eye Mr. Dominic Napoli as he reaches out, snags my hand and pulls me to him. I’m stupefied. He’s warm and hard and he smells so flippin’ good. Instead of moving away I stand molded to him.
“Mr. Napppppoli.” I slur and silently will myself to shut up. “What a pleasuuure.” Amanda kicks my shin hearing my tone but I ignore her. I know she’s trying to save me from the verbal diarrhea attack thats about to happen. “Although you are apparently the perfect male specimen.” I drag my eyes from his face down to his crotch and back up lewdly. “I really would appreciate it if you could keep your hands to yourself. Perv.” I can’t help it. I know it’s not the right time but I am really freaking hilarious and I bust out laughing at myself.
He cocks his head to the side and openly stares at me with curiosity. There’s something about him that makes my skin crawl and tingle simultaneously. A war starts between my brain and my hormones. The rational side of me says run away, you hate his kind, but my libido screams, it’s been months, he wants you, have a wild night-take him.
“Ladies, could I convince you to let me give you all a ride home?” He looks back and forth between Marg and Amanda who stand there stunned stupid looking like enamored school girls. I grunt and give this Dominic character a little shove out of my personal space. “We’re not leaving now.” I growl. I hate being told what to do. It’s a problem.
“I think you’ve had enough.” He clips.
“Excuse me? What are you, my father?” I bite out.
“I think you’ll have a terrible hangover if you don’t quit now.” His arrogance is really really irritating me.
“Marg, Manda. We’re leaving. I hate him.” I spout, poke him in the chest and yank my bag from Amanda’s hand while making a beeline for the door. The cool night air hits me like a brick in the face and suddenly instead of feeling refreshed, I feel tired and sick. I lean against the building and hang my head trying to get the spinning to stop.
“Hey, you alright?” Marg asks rubbing my arm softly.
“I don’t feel well.” I moan pathetically.
“NO puking in the taxi.” Amanda laughs. She’s teasing, I never puke. Well not never but it’s a rare occurance and I usually can hold it together until there’s a clean bathroom insight.
“Hey! I’m no PJ, there will be no puke and throw from this gal.” I point at myself and attempt to laugh.
“Oh my god! Do you remember that?” Amanda doubles over with laughter at the memory. Our friend PJ was disgustingly wasted, interestingly enough at the bar we just left, and he threw up in his hand, cupped it, then threw it behind him. He repeated the act until he was finished throwing up. Seriously. Amanda and I had caught him in the act as he stood in the corner discreetly covering his mouth then whipping it behind him into the corner. “That was the most disgusting yet hilarious thing I’ve ever witnessed.” I chuckle. A wave of nausea rolls over me stopping my laugh. I groan and turn away from my friends while I try to fight the impending doom lurking in my stomach.
“Ew. Are you going to be ok?” Marg asks.
“Mmhmm... why don’t you head home. I'll text you tomorrow for brunch.” I mutter between deep breaths.
“Alrighty.... Amanda, see you tomorrow. Love ya Clara!” She calls, her heels click and clack on the sidewalk as she hails a cab.
“Offer still stands.” That voice is like dark chocolate and silk. I want to look up but I can’t move so I stay doubled over.
“I don't think you want her riding in your car.” Amanda giggles pointing at me I’m sure.
“You look tired. Why don't I have my driver take you home and I’ll stay with Clara until she sobers up.” He offers. I want to protest but my stomach is rolling and I need to continue my deep breathing and concentration to keep everything contained.
“That sounds wonderful.” Amanda elates. What the fuck! Why is she throwing me under the bus. Hoes before bros apparently has no meaning to her. A strangled groan escapes me and Amanda is instantly at my side.
“What are you doing?” I hiss at her.
“Shut up Clara. I'll see you in the morning when you’re ready to thank me.” She snips. I want to strangle her and her good intentions. A car door shuts and I hear Amanda call out have fun before wheels screech and I assume she’s taken off by Dominic’s driver.
“Clara. Can you stand?” He asks hesitantly.
“Of course I can stand you turd.” I straighten, push off the wall and immediately wish I hadn't. Everything tips sideways and I feel like death. My crouched hidey hole was a much, much better position. His arm darts out steadying me and I clutch it for dear life. “Wait a moment.” He grumbles. “Yes. The Harp. Thank you.” He clips into his phone. Jerk. Who is he talking to with such attitude? “Clara, I’m going to pick you up.” He says softly, the irritation in his voice from a moment ago gone.
“Nooo.” I groan. “Feet need to stay on ground.”
“Sorry darling but we need to move and I don’t think you can keep up.” My feet leave the ground making my stomach turn or maybe it was the pet name, I detest pet names. I wrap my arms around his neck and press my head into his shoulder trying to mentally right myself and tamp down the bile rising in my throat. He walks swiftly, as if I weigh nothing, to the curb and waits as a man opens a car door for him, squatting down he slides into the car with me still attached to him. I’m positioned on his lap and although I really dislike this weirdo I’m relieved to be on my way home. I don’t dare lift my head so I keep it buried in his neck and surprisingly, he holds me tightly to him silently.
God, what kind of cologne does he wear, I want to get some for Sawyer because I need to smell this smell all the time. His fingers move gently through my hair and I want to tell him to cut the shit but I can’t make my mouth perform the task. The longer I keep my eyes closed and the firmer he holds me the more the spinning sensation subsides and sleepiness takes over. As I drift off to sleep it occurs to me that he didn’t ask for my address, but maybe Amanda told him when she left.
Eventually I’ll get to the bar, hopefully before last call but at this rate my chances are looking slim. I should have done what Marg did and ordered two drinks knowing how busy the club would be on a Friday night but I didn't. I’m sweaty from dancing with my girls in the throng of people crowding the dance floor. Without warning my hair is swept off my back and over my left shoulder. Hanging to my shoulder blades, it’s hot and heavy, the movement creates a breeze on my neck that feels good but who the hell just touched me so intimately? I stiffen as warm breath blows over my shoulder.
“Could I interest you in a drink?” Comes a deep rough voice in my ear. I swing around shooting steel daggers and find myself eye level with a broad chest. Tilting my head back I look up to an extremely handsome, tan chiseled face.
“Excuse me?” I snap. He smirks. My snarky inner bitch already hates him.
“I’d like to buy you a drink.” His deep vibrato sends chills down my spine which surprises me.
“Oh?” I quirk a well groomed eyebrow at him.
“Yes, what would you like?” I want to smack the smug look off his face. I hate arrogance and entitlement and this dude oozes it.
“I’d like to not be manhandled by a stranger.” I snark.
“My apologies, but I’ve been watching you and I couldn't resist.” He steps closer to me.
“Creepy.” I quip taking a step back. Mystery man reaches out grabbing me at the elbow.
“Let me get you a drink.” He pleads a little more sternly.
“Why?”
“Why not?” He questions looking amused.
“Persistent aren’t we?” My voice is laced with disdain.
“Yes. I’ve been called that.” He grins. His eyes lighten slightly with his smile. He really is attractive.
“Give me one good reason.” I offer sarcastically. The corners of his mouth drop and his brows furrow.
“You intrigue me.” He says finally.
“That’s hardly a good reason Mr...” I snort and wait. His lips twitch.
“Mr. Napoli and I’d like to get to know you Ms...” He counters.
“Lord. Ms. Lord. You don’t know me but I can assure you I’m stunningly average in all areas of life.” I inform him.
“I beg to differ.” He argues. Man this guy is relentless and totally hot for himself. Anyone who thinks so much of themselves must be a catch, I snicker to myself sarcastically. Stepping in close to him I place my hand on his hard chest and smooth his tie with my hand. Who wears a suit to a club anyways? He grins at the contact and his eyes go dark as if I’m his prey. I fist the tie and tug gently until his tall firm frame bends to my five foot four level and bring my mouth to his ear. “You can differ all you like but only I know the truth.” I purr. Releasing his tie I turn on my bootheel and stalk back to my girls fuming about that stupidly hot, I’m so full of myself I could get any girl and I will jerk. I plop down in my chair irritated and start ranting.
“Remind me why they don’t offer clubs that only let women in?” I ask sarcastically. Two dolled up ladies stare at me wide eyed. “Uh...what?” I ask noticing their faces.
“Do you have any idea who you were talking too?! What did he want?!” Marg screeches.
“He wanted to buy me a drink and who the hell is he?” I bark back.
“Clara... do you live under a rock? That’s Dominic Napoli, real estate mogul, one of Boston’s ten most successful businessmen under forty. Didn’t you read the article I emailed you?” Amanda looks at me like I’ve lost my mind. I did read it, but I read it because she wrote it, I didn’t really absorb or pay attention to the photos or why those guys were worth reading about. She knows I could give a crap about rich men.
“I guess I skipped his bio?” I shrug still not sure why it’s that awesome that I met him. Sure he’s successful but I don’t care about money and prestige. I’m not that into appearances and mingling with the right people. Been there, done that.
“Ladies. Mr. Napoli sends his regards. Please enjoy the wine.” The bartender interrupts us placing a very expensive bottle of white wine on the table with three glasses.
“Man what a jerk!” I cry in frustration.
“Shut up Clara.” Amanda hisses horrified. Marg ignores me and dives into the wine.
“I told him I didn't want a drink from him and what does he do? He does it anyways. This,” I gesture to the wine, “is sneaky and backhanded. Now it doesn't matter if I said no, he’s made it look all good natured. Pompass ass.” I ramble my irritation.
“Shut up and drink.” Marg laughs.
“Fine, but it’s consumption under protest.” I state and relax a little. What I really want to do is strut over to that cocky jerk and hand him his bottle of wine back while giving him a piece of my mind. What part of, no means no, is so hard to understand? Icona Pop’s I Love It starts. This is my jam. I flat out love this song and I immediately jump up, snag the bottle of wine, leaving both girls screeching and hit the dance floor. Shrugging at each other Amanda and Marg follow and the three of us jump around shouting the words to the song and shaking our hips.
Taking a pull directly from the wine bottle I notice Mr. Napoli watching from the VIP section. He’s really quite handsome, it’s a shame really. If he’d been that handsome and an average Joe maybe he would have gotten lucky tonight but my pure hatred of wealth and all that comes with it makes him off limits. I toss my head back and take another pull before passing the bottle to Marg as Wild Ones starts and I lose myself in the music. Three songs later Amanda tugs on my arm wanting my attention.
“What’s up?” I shout above the music.
“Marg and I want to hit up The Harp.”
“‘K, let’s go.” I shout back and follow them to our table to collect our things. The wine bottle passes between the three of us again polishing it off.
I have a serious buzz at this point which was my entire goal for tonight and tomorrow night. I’m only in town for the weekend and wanted a wild girls weekend with my two favorite ladies. I haven’t seen them in forever but work brought me back to Beantown finally so I’d emailed them both seeing if they were up for a couple nights on the town with me.
“How’s Alliecat and Sawyer?” Marg asks.
“Allie’s amazing per usual and Sawyer,” I sigh. “Sawyer is the only reason I was able to come. I don't know what I’d do without him.” Amanda and Marg shoot loving looks at me before we head into The Harp.
“God! I missed this place.” I squeal. “Is The Zoo playing tonight?” Marg and Amanda both double over laughing at me. “What?”
“Do you really think eight years later they’re still playing here?” Amanda chuckles.
“Oh. Right. Guess it’s been a while.”
“Yeah, a while is an understatement Clara.” Marg quips at me.
“I know, I know, but you guys know why I had to leave.” I throw my hands up in defense.
“Yes, we do and we understand. We’re just happy to have you for the weekend babe!” I get double teamed by my girls in a giant hug and can't help but giggle with them. It really has been too long. I’ve missed out on a lot in their lives. We email, text and call but it’s not the same really and lord knows they’ve missed out on my life. It is was it is though and I did what I had to do and never looked back and I’m happy with my life now.
Cramming into a table for two we order three beers and wait for the band to come on. “So how was the exhibition today?” Marg asks.
“It went really well. I mingled with some other people in the Virginia area too. Hopefully it will drum up some new business.”
“Is the shop turning a profit that you can live on now?” Amanda inquires.
“Yeah, it has been for a while. We’re really starting to get busy. Sawyer and I might need to bring in a third artist. That was the other part of coming to the show today, I wanted to scope out some talent.”
“Well it sounds like things have really come together for you. I’m happy.” Marg smiles approvingly. It’s nice to know they support me. Eight years ago, hell five years ago if you’d asked me if I would be running my own shop and making money doing it I would have laughed in your face.
“Thanks.” I smile.
“Any of you ladies care to dance?” A stocky guy with a bad teenage mustache asks. I snort and shake my head no while Marg looks like she wants to hide under the table and never look at his face again and Amanda, oh boy, she looks like she’s ready to give the guy hell. “You have balls I’ll give you that. What are you? Eighteen? Twenty? How’d you get in here? The street lights are on it’s past your bedtime.” She flicks her wrist shooing him away as I burst into laughter. “What? We’re cougars but we still have standards.” She giggles.
“Cougars? Seriously since when does thirty two put you in cougar territory?” I chortle.
“When the boys hitting on you are a decade or more younger than you. That’s when.” Marg finally lifts her eyes. “Is creepy mustache gone?” We all double over with laughter as we sip our beers.
As the band steps onto the stage and starts to play their nineties cover songs I think back to when this was the norm in my life. College had been a blast and these two girls had been my partners in crime for four years and change. I really did miss them and having time to just be crazy and wild and free.
Marg tugs me to my feet and stumbles a little. I’m really glad I wore my cowboy boots instead of heels. Sure I probably stick out like a sore thumb but I’m comfortable, can dance and will still be able to walk home without my feet feeling like they are bleeding. Hey Jealousy ends and Laid starts and I can’t help but be swept away in the moment. I feel carefree and eighteen again.
Mid song I’m singing my heart out jumping around wildly having the best time ever when two large hands grip my waist. His fingers splay wide holding me firmly. I feel a tingle course through my body at the contact. My hormones go into overdrive at the long forgotten feeling of being held by a man like this. I stiffen and stand stalk still enjoying the sensation before realizing that I have no male counterpart with me. Don’t Stop Believing starts just as I whip around to face my grabby fan. “We meet again Ms. Lord.” Dominic says coyly. His hands are scorching my sides as I stare up into his dark eyes. He’s so attractive. His black hair is perfectly coiffed and his suit looks like it was tailor made just for him. I’m sure I’m staring like an idiot but the beer has officially sent me one sheet past three to the wind and I can’t form a witty retort. Instead I stare dreamily, like a reject, at the chiseled face before me. I can’t be sure but I think I even sigh. He smiles widely at me and I blink.
Gathering myself I pull out of his grip and in my drunken stupor stumble backwards landing on the stage. The lead singer takes this as an invitation and hauls me to my feet. Figuring what the hell I rip the mic from his hands and start belting out the song. “Working hard to get my fill, everybody wants a thrill. Payin' anything to roll the dice, just one more time. Some will win, some will lose. Some were born to sing the blues. Oh, the movie never ends, it goes on and on and on and on...” The mic is stolen away as the chorus begins and he holds the mic out to the crowd. Amanda and Marg yank me down from the stage barely containing their laughter at my show.
“What the hell Clara?!” Amanda can barely contain her laughter.
“Yeah Clara, I had no idea you were a rock star.” A booming deep voice calls out. Marg and Amanda spin around and eye Mr. Dominic Napoli as he reaches out, snags my hand and pulls me to him. I’m stupefied. He’s warm and hard and he smells so flippin’ good. Instead of moving away I stand molded to him.
“Mr. Napppppoli.” I slur and silently will myself to shut up. “What a pleasuuure.” Amanda kicks my shin hearing my tone but I ignore her. I know she’s trying to save me from the verbal diarrhea attack thats about to happen. “Although you are apparently the perfect male specimen.” I drag my eyes from his face down to his crotch and back up lewdly. “I really would appreciate it if you could keep your hands to yourself. Perv.” I can’t help it. I know it’s not the right time but I am really freaking hilarious and I bust out laughing at myself.
He cocks his head to the side and openly stares at me with curiosity. There’s something about him that makes my skin crawl and tingle simultaneously. A war starts between my brain and my hormones. The rational side of me says run away, you hate his kind, but my libido screams, it’s been months, he wants you, have a wild night-take him.
“Ladies, could I convince you to let me give you all a ride home?” He looks back and forth between Marg and Amanda who stand there stunned stupid looking like enamored school girls. I grunt and give this Dominic character a little shove out of my personal space. “We’re not leaving now.” I growl. I hate being told what to do. It’s a problem.
“I think you’ve had enough.” He clips.
“Excuse me? What are you, my father?” I bite out.
“I think you’ll have a terrible hangover if you don’t quit now.” His arrogance is really really irritating me.
“Marg, Manda. We’re leaving. I hate him.” I spout, poke him in the chest and yank my bag from Amanda’s hand while making a beeline for the door. The cool night air hits me like a brick in the face and suddenly instead of feeling refreshed, I feel tired and sick. I lean against the building and hang my head trying to get the spinning to stop.
“Hey, you alright?” Marg asks rubbing my arm softly.
“I don’t feel well.” I moan pathetically.
“NO puking in the taxi.” Amanda laughs. She’s teasing, I never puke. Well not never but it’s a rare occurance and I usually can hold it together until there’s a clean bathroom insight.
“Hey! I’m no PJ, there will be no puke and throw from this gal.” I point at myself and attempt to laugh.
“Oh my god! Do you remember that?” Amanda doubles over with laughter at the memory. Our friend PJ was disgustingly wasted, interestingly enough at the bar we just left, and he threw up in his hand, cupped it, then threw it behind him. He repeated the act until he was finished throwing up. Seriously. Amanda and I had caught him in the act as he stood in the corner discreetly covering his mouth then whipping it behind him into the corner. “That was the most disgusting yet hilarious thing I’ve ever witnessed.” I chuckle. A wave of nausea rolls over me stopping my laugh. I groan and turn away from my friends while I try to fight the impending doom lurking in my stomach.
“Ew. Are you going to be ok?” Marg asks.
“Mmhmm... why don’t you head home. I'll text you tomorrow for brunch.” I mutter between deep breaths.
“Alrighty.... Amanda, see you tomorrow. Love ya Clara!” She calls, her heels click and clack on the sidewalk as she hails a cab.
“Offer still stands.” That voice is like dark chocolate and silk. I want to look up but I can’t move so I stay doubled over.
“I don't think you want her riding in your car.” Amanda giggles pointing at me I’m sure.
“You look tired. Why don't I have my driver take you home and I’ll stay with Clara until she sobers up.” He offers. I want to protest but my stomach is rolling and I need to continue my deep breathing and concentration to keep everything contained.
“That sounds wonderful.” Amanda elates. What the fuck! Why is she throwing me under the bus. Hoes before bros apparently has no meaning to her. A strangled groan escapes me and Amanda is instantly at my side.
“What are you doing?” I hiss at her.
“Shut up Clara. I'll see you in the morning when you’re ready to thank me.” She snips. I want to strangle her and her good intentions. A car door shuts and I hear Amanda call out have fun before wheels screech and I assume she’s taken off by Dominic’s driver.
“Clara. Can you stand?” He asks hesitantly.
“Of course I can stand you turd.” I straighten, push off the wall and immediately wish I hadn't. Everything tips sideways and I feel like death. My crouched hidey hole was a much, much better position. His arm darts out steadying me and I clutch it for dear life. “Wait a moment.” He grumbles. “Yes. The Harp. Thank you.” He clips into his phone. Jerk. Who is he talking to with such attitude? “Clara, I’m going to pick you up.” He says softly, the irritation in his voice from a moment ago gone.
“Nooo.” I groan. “Feet need to stay on ground.”
“Sorry darling but we need to move and I don’t think you can keep up.” My feet leave the ground making my stomach turn or maybe it was the pet name, I detest pet names. I wrap my arms around his neck and press my head into his shoulder trying to mentally right myself and tamp down the bile rising in my throat. He walks swiftly, as if I weigh nothing, to the curb and waits as a man opens a car door for him, squatting down he slides into the car with me still attached to him. I’m positioned on his lap and although I really dislike this weirdo I’m relieved to be on my way home. I don’t dare lift my head so I keep it buried in his neck and surprisingly, he holds me tightly to him silently.
God, what kind of cologne does he wear, I want to get some for Sawyer because I need to smell this smell all the time. His fingers move gently through my hair and I want to tell him to cut the shit but I can’t make my mouth perform the task. The longer I keep my eyes closed and the firmer he holds me the more the spinning sensation subsides and sleepiness takes over. As I drift off to sleep it occurs to me that he didn’t ask for my address, but maybe Amanda told him when she left.
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Woah it's been too long
Summer is so busy and I get swept away by things like road tripping and lake days and holidays and birthdays and fireworks and ok- you see where this is going....
Tug Of War is due out in just a few short weeks....
Teaser Wednesday anyone?!
Light filters through the curtains as my phone vibrates off the side table. Without opening my eyes I fumble for it but as I reach down I’m hauled back across the bed into Dom’s strong arms.
“Morning.” He smiles at me.
“Good morning to you.” I flirt. He shakes his head at me grinning. “What?” I ask.
“I’ve waited a long time, four months almost, to have this happen.”
“Have what happen?” I ask suggestively.
“To wake up with you Clara.” He leans in and brushes a feather light kiss across my lips. “To spend the night with you.” He breathes in my ear while nipping at it.
“If you wake me up and I don't get angry you must be pretty effing special. I hate waking up.” A hot flush breaks out across my chest as he kisses a path down my neck.
“We don't have time for this.” He stops at my collarbone and I whine in protest.
“Why not?” I ask running my hands along all the hard ridges of his torso.
“We have to find you a dress and the wedding’s in four hours.” I pout and relax back into the pillow.
“Fine.”
“Don't look at me like that. We’ll have plenty of time for fun later.” He winks and smacks my thigh playfully.
“I don’t want to alarm you,” I say sitting up and straddling him. “but you may have unleashed a monster last night.” He hardens at my opening. “An insatiable monster.” I breathe into his mouth as I kiss him. With ease he lifts my hips and slides me down on him while I wrap my legs around his back. He stands and crashes my back into the wall opposite the bed as he stays deep and swivels his hips. My head dips back hitting the wall and my eyes close as he quickly brings me racing towards release. Suckling and kissing my exposed throat he drives deep skidding me up the wall some and stays planted while he rotates his hips. My muscles clench, my breath catches and gripping my hips to steady me he rolls up and in twice more and nips my neck before my orgasm rips through at an alarming rate. He finishes just after me and carries me to the bed, setting me down carefully and slowly pulling out. “Will that hold you over my dear?” He teases.
“Mmmhmm.” I sigh and watch his amazing naked body saunter to the bathroom for a shower. I grab my phone and check my messages.
Amanda: Are you ok?
Marg: Dom the Dominator huh? I was hot just watching you two dance!
I text Amanda and Marg back letting them know what's up and that I’m the worst friend ever for missing almost all of girls weekend and decide to leave it that.
Tug Of War is due out in just a few short weeks....
Teaser Wednesday anyone?!
Light filters through the curtains as my phone vibrates off the side table. Without opening my eyes I fumble for it but as I reach down I’m hauled back across the bed into Dom’s strong arms.
“Morning.” He smiles at me.
“Good morning to you.” I flirt. He shakes his head at me grinning. “What?” I ask.
“I’ve waited a long time, four months almost, to have this happen.”
“Have what happen?” I ask suggestively.
“To wake up with you Clara.” He leans in and brushes a feather light kiss across my lips. “To spend the night with you.” He breathes in my ear while nipping at it.
“If you wake me up and I don't get angry you must be pretty effing special. I hate waking up.” A hot flush breaks out across my chest as he kisses a path down my neck.
“We don't have time for this.” He stops at my collarbone and I whine in protest.
“Why not?” I ask running my hands along all the hard ridges of his torso.
“We have to find you a dress and the wedding’s in four hours.” I pout and relax back into the pillow.
“Fine.”
“Don't look at me like that. We’ll have plenty of time for fun later.” He winks and smacks my thigh playfully.
“I don’t want to alarm you,” I say sitting up and straddling him. “but you may have unleashed a monster last night.” He hardens at my opening. “An insatiable monster.” I breathe into his mouth as I kiss him. With ease he lifts my hips and slides me down on him while I wrap my legs around his back. He stands and crashes my back into the wall opposite the bed as he stays deep and swivels his hips. My head dips back hitting the wall and my eyes close as he quickly brings me racing towards release. Suckling and kissing my exposed throat he drives deep skidding me up the wall some and stays planted while he rotates his hips. My muscles clench, my breath catches and gripping my hips to steady me he rolls up and in twice more and nips my neck before my orgasm rips through at an alarming rate. He finishes just after me and carries me to the bed, setting me down carefully and slowly pulling out. “Will that hold you over my dear?” He teases.
“Mmmhmm.” I sigh and watch his amazing naked body saunter to the bathroom for a shower. I grab my phone and check my messages.
Amanda: Are you ok?
Marg: Dom the Dominator huh? I was hot just watching you two dance!
I text Amanda and Marg back letting them know what's up and that I’m the worst friend ever for missing almost all of girls weekend and decide to leave it that.
New!!
Working on something new:
When you kill your soul mate you don’t ever really recover from it. Two years of trying to forget or rather move past it has taught me that you cant. Its an impossibility to recover from that kind of horrific form of betrayal. If you you’re too selfish or scared for suicide, like me, you learn to wake up every morning and follow routine. One foot in front of the other day after day. Hollow. Lifeless. Haunted. The down side is the my soul mate belonged to a terrifying drug running family that will hunt me down and kill me in order to avenge his death. So even though my own guilt swallows me hole daily- I also live in a perpetual state of fear and paranoia. Always watching and waiting for the day when the Ash’s find me and take my life from me the way I took his from him.
When you kill your soul mate you don’t ever really recover from it. Two years of trying to forget or rather move past it has taught me that you cant. Its an impossibility to recover from that kind of horrific form of betrayal. If you you’re too selfish or scared for suicide, like me, you learn to wake up every morning and follow routine. One foot in front of the other day after day. Hollow. Lifeless. Haunted. The down side is the my soul mate belonged to a terrifying drug running family that will hunt me down and kill me in order to avenge his death. So even though my own guilt swallows me hole daily- I also live in a perpetual state of fear and paranoia. Always watching and waiting for the day when the Ash’s find me and take my life from me the way I took his from him.
Terrific Tuesday Teaser!
http://klarsenauthor.blogspot.com/
Visit the Blog!!! New stuff posting- teasers, info, updates! dooooooooo it!
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