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imagination. She slipped it on, afraid to look at herself in the mirror. She knew without looking that her underwear covered more turf than the suit. She had always been extremely modest, preferring swimsuits that covered her essentials and then some. She wrapped a towel around her waist and, aftera moment’s hesitation, opened the door. She hurried past Rick without looking at him. “Let’s go,” she said, heading outside.
    â€œWait.” He grabbed her arm. “Sabrina might think you don’t care,” he said, tormenting her with his teasing tone.
    She hesitated and he let go of her. He had changed into his bathing suit as well. She was not surprised to see that he had the physique of a natural athlete, finely sculpted and strong.
    He gave her body a raking gaze. She pretended not to notice his obvious examination and approval, but she could feel her cheeks grow warm. “Take my hand,” he instructed. His hands were large, swallowing hers. He could crush her, but instead he held her as gently as he could. “Take your time,” he instructed. “Slowly. Don’t forget, I’m your lover, not your enemy.”
    â€œIt’s easy to forget,” she said.
    His eyes gazed over her once again, slowly drinking her in. She could smell Rick, feel his presence.
    â€œLet’s get on with this,” she said. She found herself thinking once again of Sabrina. She had done a lot more than just admire Rick’s muscles. While Lessa had been worshipping him from afar, Sabrina had been experiencing his skills as a lover. She had no doubt Rick was as skilled at lovemaking as he was everything else.
    â€œI’m curious about one thing,” Rick said. “When did you see me with Sabrina?”
    â€œAt your apartment,” she replied, not intending the words to sound as bitter as they did. “About ten years ago. My dad sent me over to deliver some papers.”
    â€œThat was a long time ago,” he said. “I’m surprised you even remember.”
    Of course she remembered, she felt like saying. She had been madly, wildly in love with him. But before she could say anything, his hand settled on top of her rear end. She could feel herself grow short of breath as he pulled her to a stop. “Sabrina is behind you,” he said. “She’s watching us.”
    He brushed the back of his hand across her face. “I’m going to kiss you, Lessa,” he said quietly. “It’s going to be a tender, passionate kiss. I want you to take your hands and wrap them around my neck. Can you do that?”
    Oh God, oh God…
    â€œJust relax,” he said softly. “I’m not going to hurt you.”
    As he leaned forward, she closed her eyes and puckered up. His lips pressed against hers as his hand slipped around her small waist, pulling her in to him. As her bare flesh pressed against his, she was overwhelmed by his physical strength and power.
    Slowly, he stopped. He smiled softly, his eyes caressing her. And for a moment, she forgot it was not real. He loved her and she loved him and that was all that mattered.
    But instead of sweet nothings, he said, “You didn’t put your arms around my neck.” With a nod toward Sabrina, he added, “Next time follow instructions.”

Four
    â€œA s I told you, Mr. Parker,” Lessa said, still shaky from the kiss. “I’m not an actress.”
    â€œWell, you better try. Because this is the only way to get back your father’s business. So no more tantrums.” He swung her back into him.
    â€œEvery time you touch me, it makes me dislike you even more.”
    â€œWell, if all goes according to plan,” he said, pulling her so close she could feel his breath on her cheek, “by the end of the evening you’ll hate me.” He released her but still held on to her hand. “Shall we?”
    The afternoon sun reflected off the blue Caribbean, beating through