'Miss Sinclair, is it true Josh McKay, has proposed to you?'

Another demanded, 'Are you having an autumn wedding?'

Caitlin panicked, as they thronged her. How was she going to safely get to her front door? She was surrounded by these invasive monsters.
Suddenly a pair of strong hands reached for her, one arm went around her waist, firmly easing her past the cameras, guiding her to the door, taking her keys and getting her into her penthouse. A glass of brandy was thrust into her hand and she was ordered to drink.

 She was too unsettled by the media outside to argue, gratefully raising the glass to her lips. She felt the strong liquid burn as it found its way into her empty stomach. Unable to resist those magnetic eyes any longer, she cautiously looked up into the angry eyes that waited patiently for her to get over the ordeal from outside. His eyes studied her, taking in the tired eyes, her body language exhibiting fatigue. His eyes trailed over the sexy black lace top that emphasized her beautiful well rounded breasts, and down to the pencil skirt that caressed her frame. He was unable to resist a glance at the seemingly unending shapely legs.

Having tortured himself enough, he demanded, 'what the bloody hell is going on?'
Caitlin shifted away needing some space, she played for time pouring herself another brandy. This is not good on an empty stomach, she cautioned herself. If only she could just climb into her bath right this minute. She pondered on Nicholas' question. Was he referring to the circus outside, or was he making a reference to Josh or was it about him and her?

What him and her, her mind screamed?

'Caitlin?' He questioned irritatedly.

She drained her glass and carefully placed it on the table. 'Am I supposed to be answerable to you now?' she challenged.

His eyes narrowed dangerously. A storm brewed in Caitlin's eyes.

 'What Nicholas!' she was livid now. 'What exactly are you questioning me about?' she demanded. 

He glared at her, his turn now to be in no great hurry to answer. The phone rang as she waited for his response.

'McKay clocking in?' he threw sarcastically.

'Better than you've ever done,' she flung at him, all flushed as she answered the phone. 'Caitlin Sinclair, good evening,' she answered.

Nicholas helped himself to a scotch, glaring at Caitlin on the phone.

'It would be good, if I was with you right now,' Josh's voice moaned.

Caitlin's face went a deeper shade of red.

'Hi Josh,' she could not talk right now.  It felt too uncomfortable with Nicholas' eyes piercing at her, like he wanted to annihilate her or something.

'Can I call you back in a while?'

A while depending on how long it takes to get rid of His Highness. 

'Don't take too long, I'll be waiting,' he hung up.'

'What are you doing with McKay?' Nicholas demanded.

'Why are we having this conversation I wonder?' She tossed at him.  'As far as you were concerned you did not want "formal contracts!" Do you recall the conversation Nicholas?' she yelled at him.

'So are you in a relationship with McKay?'

'Not yet,' she taunted him.

'He's calling you at God forsaken hours,' Nicholas accused.

'Yes he does, every night. And you know what? I like the attention he gives me.  Perhaps you would like to take a leaf out of his book,' she carelessly tossed at him.

'So you would like me to call you every morning and evening and offer you exclusive rights to me?' 

The arrogant brute.  I want to strangle__.

 'Don't knock yourself out. You don't have to do anything just for me Nicholas,' she spoke softly. 'We don't need to be having this conversation.'

Nicholas glared at her, his broad palm expansively draped on one hip, the other deep inside his pocket. A pulse was violently throbbing on his throat. But Caitlin continued relentlessly.

'You know, if there are women out there, who are satisfied to play by your rules, be my guest. Just stay away from me, that is not the way I operate,' she got out with difficulty turning away from him.

Even though she was angry with him, her shameless body was still returning his signals. She knew the deep desire in her eyes was clearly evident to him, she could do nothing about that.

'Are you sleeping with McKay?' he turned her around.

'Have you been celibate all this time?' she flung back.

There was amusement in his eyes. 

'Don't even answer, I'm not interested__'

Caitlin did not get to finish her sentence.  Nicholas pulled her roughly into his arms, his mouth closing over hers, taking her by surprise. She tried to resist him, but he held her in an iron grip. His lips persuasive, his moist tongue enjoying the taste of brandy on hers, and teasing her to respond. Desire flooded through her body like the heat of the midday sun easily melting butter.

He continued his seductive onslaught until she eventually weakened and yielded to her own desire for him. Caitlin's arms defied her resolve and wrapped themselves around his neck. Oh how she hungered for him so much. No man affected her like he did.  Nobody else's kisses satiated her like his adorable lips did. Like somebody starved of oxygen, she allowed her tongue to seek out his. He groaned his pleasure, crushing her tightly against his body. His tongue hungry as it wrapped itself around hers, tingling with pleasure delighting her with the sensations it aroused.

'Caitlin?' he whispered.

'Yes?' She murmured against his lips, not happy with herself for responding to kisses.

'Did you sleep with McKay?' he persisted.

She pulled away, looking into his tormented eyes. They were begging for her to answer.

'No,' she murmured, removing her arms from around him. 

'Don't fight me please Caitlin,' he moaned, pinning her in his arms again.

'I refuse to play by your rules Nicholas' she warned.  'Remember your last words?"Can't we take things. One day at a time!"  You didn't need me today.  You never called. Oh, and you didn't need me yesterday. You never called yesterday either!'

He did not respond instead, lifted one hand to her face, a finger tracing the outline to her lip, sending erotic pleasure pulsating throughout her body. Her body cried out for him. She wanted to touch him, her fingers were tingling in anticipation of touching the fine hairs covering his muscular chest. Her lips parted anticipating his kiss.
Unhurriedly Caitlin slid her hand through his shirt. She pressed her palms on his flesh, her fingers caressing his shoulder blades, tracing his muscles, delighting in the pleasure it aroused in him. Nicholas groaned inwardly at the effect her touch had on him. He took possession of her lips again, their hunger insatiable, urgently wanting to pleasure and to please. She could feel his aroused erect manhood, as he moulded her body to his. It delighted, excited and scared her at the same time. She pressed against him, feeling intoxicated by his caressing. Nicholas was demanding. His hands expertly arousing her body. His fingers blazed a fire on her delectable breast, his thumb teasing her erect nipple.  Caitlin groaned her pleasure, her lips planting soft kisses on his throat, burning desire in him. He opened her top allowing his lips access to her aroused nipples, his tongue gently tracing them, sending erotic shivers through her body.

'Nicholas!' she groaned aloud.

'I want you Caitlin,' he murmured against her earlobe.

'For how long Nicholas?  One night! One week! Before you move on?' she pushed him away, buttoning her shirt again.

'Do you enjoy being in McKay's arms Caitlin?'

She looked away, giving him the answer he needed.

'You belong to me Caitlin,' he pulled her into his arms again. His lips causing a delightful sensation down her throat.

'No other man, can set your body on fire, like I can,' he informed her emphatically. His tongue continuing on the same destructive path.

Caitlin struggled, but only momentarily, she purred, lapping the erotic pleasure his lips aroused in her. 

'There isn't another man alive that can make your body respond just by a touch, is there Caitlin?'

She refused to answer him, but her twitching lips, betrayed her.  She needed to stop this grueling punishment of his.

'Do you hear me Caitlin?' he spoke huskily against her throat.

'I think you should go,' she whispered hoarsely.

'Why?' he demanded.

She fought the desire she felt for him, glaring at him angrily.

'I like structure Nicholas, I prefer things to be clear. Yes, you and I are attracted to each other, and I know you want me. I  ___, and I don't want to say any more!'

God, if only she did not feel the way she did for him.

'I want to stay the night with you Caitlin.'

'No!' she replied too quickly.

'Why?' He demanded again.

She looked into his eyes. God he was stubborn, arrogant, insufferable, and yet __. 

'Let yourself out Nicholas,' she pushed past him and stormed upstairs.

She wanted to cry, but emotionally she was all spent. 

Is there life after Nicholas?  her heart cried?

Well what future was there for her without a commitment from him? Should she just be a doormat, whenever he had physical need of her? She needed to get over Nicholas. Caitlin pondered on the expression "you can't miss what you never had." Somebody needed to rephrase that.

She knew she needed to call Josh, but right now, she needed company like she needed a broken heart. Dialing Josh's number, she waited for him to pick up. 

 Caitlin knew she was playing with fire, and that she was aggravating things between her and Nicholas, but her stubborn pride was going to give Josh a chance. The first step in getting over Nicholas, was to move on, and in that regard, she'd put the wheels in motion already. She would continue to see Josh, surely Nicholas will eventually back off. Accelerating that plan when Rebecca had invited her to Kenton for the weekend, to help with plans for her wedding, Caitlin continued on her warpath inviting Josh to accompany her to her parent's home.

 Josh was fascinated with Caitlin's parent's home, and when Caitlin introduced Josh to her mom and dad, they were overjoyed at her bringing a handsome celebrity to meet them.

'Don't get ahead of yourself mom,' Caitlin whispered, when she could see wedding bells clanging in her mom's eyes.

'Oh darling I'm so happy for your brother, I only wish you could find somebody as well.

I have found him Mom, whether he feels the same, remains to be seen. 

'Shall I rescue you, and show you to the room, you'll be using' she grinned at Josh. 'Excuse me Mr. Sinclair.' Josh made to depart.

'Call me Gregg,' her dad offered.

'I could get used to living here,' Josh smiled, taking her into his arms.

Not without some effort Caitlin placed her arms around Josh's neck. Amazingly, one magnificent and adorable body was masculine, erotically appealing to the touch, the other __. After what could construe as an appropriate time, Caitlin pulled away.

'Before mom and dad start speculating about what's going on behind this door, I'm going to take a shower and dress for dinner,' she smiled, looking away.

'Dinner is kind of formal, seeing you're the guest of honour,' she wrinkled her nose.
Josh laughed, 'I'll adorn myself in my most charming apparel,' he grinned, planting a kiss on her cheek. 

 Pleasant laughter and noisy chatter greeted her as she entered the living room. She smiled excitedly hearing Rebecca and Stuart's bubbly voices. Her heart stilled, her eyes were drawn to the dominant figure in the room chatting to her dad.

What the hell is he doing here!

'Oh this is so bad timing,' Caitlin groaned.

Nicholas, swallowing from his glass looked devastatingly adorable in his white tux.  Gulping a huge breath Caitlin greeted Rebecca with a big hug. Stuart as usual had to pick her up and twirl her around.

'I bet when junior comes along I will be deprived of such pleasures,' she teased her brother. They all laughed. Josh joined her, kissing her on the lips. Caitlin dared not look in Nicholas' direction.

'I see you've already met the gang,' Caitlin smiled back at him.

'He's hot!' Rebecca whispered in Caitlin's ear.

'Keep your eyes on Stuart,' Caitlin threw at her friend.

'Wow! You've managed to latch onto a gorgeous celebrity, Rebecca squealed.

'It has its perils,' Caitlin revealed.

'But he's so hot!' Rebecca repeated.

'Is your marriage in trouble, before it's  even started?' she hissed at her friend.

She cast a glance at Josh who was deeply in conversation with Stuart and her father. Nicholas was at the drinks table. They had not acknowledged or greeted each other yet. Taking another deep breath, Caitlin plucked up the courage and went over to him.

'Hi,' she spoke softly, searching his eyes.

He gazed back into her eyes, Caitlin wanted to continue staring into those gorgeous dark pools, but he looked away. Without asking her preference, he poured her a glass of white wine.

'Hi.' he greeted back, his eyes a mask.

'Thank you,' she accepted the glass.

'How are you?' Caitlin risked further.

'Taking lots of cold showers,' he replied icily.

'Nicholas I__.'

'Don't know what's wrong with our friend here,' Rebecca interrupted, tucking her arm into Caitlin's. 'He's like a bear with a sore head this whole week.'

Caitlin went scarlet, her eyes apologetic as she looked at Nicholas.

'Perhaps it's your annoying manners,' Caitlin scolded Rebecca, before dragging her away from Nicholas.

'Is diplomacy not one of your finer qualities?' Caitlin hissed.

'If I was a politician perhaps,' Rebecca threw back questioningly.

 Caitlin ignored her interrogative stare and chose to join Josh, who was still in conversation with her parents when the dinner bell sounded. Caitlin's troubles did not end there.  She found she was seated next to Nicholas at the table. Josh was to the right of her mom.  Rebecca was on the far side of Caitlin, opposite Stuart.

How did Stuart and Rebecca engineer that!

Nicholas held out the chair for her, their eyes locked again. She was beginning to think she needed an oxygen aid.

'Beautiful dress,' he teased in her ear. Caitlin was about to politely thank him, for holding the chair she held back. Colour flooded her cheeks at his appraisal of her dress. If Josh were to compliment her dress, she would just politely thank him. Yet with Nicholas, everything had a sexual connotation. Caitlin looked across at Josh, he and the lady to his right were laughing about something.

'No Ice Princess to adorn your arm tonight?' Caitlin quipped.

'I was hoping to have the pleasure of you on my arm,' he threw back.

'Early bird catches his worm.' she rallied right back, to which he gave her a murderous stare.

'Is he sharing your suite?' Nicholas demanded.

'Would you want to indulge in a threesome?' Caitlin flung testily.

Caitlin almost screamed out when she felt the erotic touch on her thigh. She swallowed, looked around. There were the two other couples Stuart had invited to dinner. Stuart and Rebecca were besotted with each other. Josh was having to deal with the flirting ladies on either side of him. Nobody seemed in the least bit observant to the goings on between her and Nicholas. His fingers seductively caressed her inner thigh, sending erotic pleasure to the centre of her womanhood. A mixture of secret excitement and fear jockeyed for her attention. Caitlin could not believe Nicholas would have the nerve to fondle her in that manner. She supposed it was her punishment for her reckless comments.

'Nicholas, please,' she begged him.

Half of her wished he would not stop, yet the other half knew she could not keep control over herself if he continued.

'Is McKay sharing your suite?'

'No.' She responded quickly unable to endure anymore of his seduction.

How was she supposed to keep her composure? Nicholas' caressing was unhurried, gentle, yet simultaneously explosive.

'Can we meet in your suite later?' Nicholas demanded.

'Yes,' she swallowed then agreed.

Anything to make him remove his nerve wrecking palm from her thigh and knowing it was futile to put up any resistance right now. Caitlin slipped her hand under the table to stop his caressing. He clasped her hand to his, his eyes holding hers. 

'Nicholas, please stop,' she begged again.

'Okay,' he sulked.

Caitlin did not know how the meal at the table ended. After dinner, drinks and coffee were served at the bar. She and Nicholas exchanged knowing glances numerous times, in anticipation of their date later in her bedroom. Josh seemed to fit right in with everybody, very comfortable and holding his own. Caitlin put on a brave face, chatting and contributing to the conversations.  Nicholas was polite, but distant, not offering much in the form of conversation. It was after midnight when everybody bid each other goodnight. Caitlin whispered to Josh that she will see him in the morning, it being her parent's home she did not want to go to his room. She walked with Josh to his room, kissed him goodnight and hurried to her suite. Josh was disappointed but relented. Apprehensively, she paced around her room. Pouring herself some cola from her mini refrigerator, she swallowed the ice cold drink too quickly, feeling its effect against her temples. A disturbing part of her eagerly awaited Nicholas, the other rational part not liking the way he demanded to see her knowing she was here with Josh. Poor Josh, how could she do this to him? She knew her behaviour was despicable, yet she was powerless against the attraction to Nicholas that was dragging her into an abyss of surrender.

 Her door opened bringing Nicholas into view. They stared at each other, hunger, desire, passion all fused in their eyes. Caitlin was mesmerized by his presence. She placed her glass on the table, her eyes trained on him. He reached out a hand for her.  She was hesitant for only a second then meekly submitted. He did not kiss her, but instead held her against his body, his face close to hers, his breathing uneven. Caitlin looked into his eyes it reflected hers, dark with desire. She raised her fingers to his face, cupping his cheeks. Nicholas pinned her against the door, gripping her hands above her head, with his one hand. His mouth covered hers, his lips hungry to possess her. Caitlin responded with equal hunger. She tried to free her hands, but Nicholas would not release his hold. Sliding his free hand under her dress, he continued his seduction from the dinner table. His fingers expertly stimulating her already aroused body, sliding over her inner thigh. Caitlin closed her eyes, savoring the pleasure.

'Nicholas,' she purred her delight, his lips covered hers again.

Caitlin responded delightedly, she tried again to free her hands but got no purchase.

'I want to touch you please Nicholas ,' she pleaded.

 Finally, he relented allowing her to hurriedly tug at his tie loosening its grip, and hastily opening the buttons of his shirt. Her hand glided over the mat of hair, caressing his taut chest. Nicholas groaned, breathing sharply. He slid the strap off her shoulder, his palm making contact with her firm breast.

'You are so beautiful Caitlin,' his thumb circled the aroused nipple.

She groaned her pleasure. His tongue suckled the nipple setting her senses on fire. Caitlin pressed against the nape of his neck, not wanting him to stop. His moist tongue delighting the aroused nipple, sending shivers of ecstasy through every part of her body. She moaned more loudly, her breathing hurried, urging his lips over her lips. Nicholas obliged, his tongue, twirling with hers so sensually.

'Caitlin,' he whispered against her throat, 'I want you, Caitlin. Let me make love to you,' he groaned huskily.

Caitlin sobered immediately, his voice dragging her back to her senses.

'Nicholas, I don't know if I can do this here!' she cried out.

His eyes searched hers questioningly.

'This is my parent's home,' she pleaded for his understanding.

'You're over twenty one Caitlin. Surely you don't need their permission!'

As much as her attraction for Nicholas tempted her to blow caution to the wind, her conscience would not allow it. What if Josh found out? He would demand to know why she invited him, knowing she wanted to be with another man, and he would have every right to. Yet how could she explain her volatile nonexistent relationship with Nicholas? She pushed away from him, 'God, it's not just their permission, Josh is downstairs!' she said frustratedly.

Nicholas angrily took one step towards her. Her pleading eyes filled with fear, held him back. Nicholas swore under his breath, his eyes darkened with furious rage as he slammed the door, on his way out.

'Bloody marvelous,' Caitlin sighed frustrated with herself. She ripped off all her clothes, and turned on the cold shower. She was freezing when she walked out of the shower, her teeth chattering. She certainly understood Nicholas' rationale for the cold shower, it certainly took you right to the other extreme, no question about it.

 The sun was blazing already, her body still aching with the unfulfilled desire she went to bed with, told her it was still around six. She listened a while to the singing birds. Longing for some coffee, and a crisp morning walk.  She showered and made her way downstairs, careful not to disturb the rest who would still be sleeping. Caitlin was surprised to see Stuart and Nicholas fully dressed in the kitchen.

'Hey sis good morning,' Stuart greeted, kissing her on the cheek, and going back to the documents he was reading.

'Good morning,' she greeted the both of them.

Nicholas mumbled a response, though he did not look at her. Caitlin could not resist looking at his face. His grave face matched his somber mood. Dark shadows under his eyes, his face unshaved, though that held certain appeal. Caitlin quickly slipped her hands into the pockets of her shorts.

'Going off somewhere?' she asked Stuart, but she really wanted to know if Nicholas would be leaving. She had to pass Nicholas to get to the coffee machine. She got a whiff of his soap and cologne as she passed him. All she wanted to do was wrap her arms around his neck, her lips ached to plant soft kisses down his throat.

'Nick and I have some work to do on site.' Stuart responded to her forgotten question. 'So you guys are going to have all the fun, whilst we slave.' Stuart teased.

'By the way, interesting chap, Josh McKay.' Stuart remarked.

Josh!

Caitlin had not even given him a moment's thought this morning, yet he was sleeping right here in this very house. Her face coloured at her sudden remembrance of Josh.
'You know him long?' Stuart continued, still half focused on his documents.

Caitlin cast her eyes in Nicholas' direction, the scowl deepened. She could feel the temperature rising in the kitchen.

'About three months,' she responded.

'Are things at a serious level then?' Stuart probed further, oblivious to the tension in the air.

Her eyes were drawn to Nicholas again. The look he gave her could easily reverse the effects of global warming in the Northern Hemisphere.

'Far too early in the morning for the Spanish Inquisition,' she hit her brother over the head, taking her coffee and walking away.

'Elusive as ever!' her brother shouted after her.

Caitlin walked to the pond, her thoughts on Nicholas.  She regretted the ways things ended between her and Nicholas last night. The geese came running to greet her, expecting some food. How she wished he could be next to her right now. It was torture being around him, and not being able to touch or embrace him. She knew he was as attracted to her as she was to him.  Why was he denying them the opportunity to be together? All he seemed to want is to satisfy his lust, nothing more. She picked up some of the bread and seeds that were nearby for the birds' morning feed and threw them into the water. They devoured the food hungrily, noisily demanding more. Caitlin laughed, throwing a generous amount of bread into the water.

'You're going to get me into trouble with Ben,' she cautioned the hungry geese.

She was sure Josh would be ready for breakfast by now.

Better put in an appearance by Josh, she told herself. Caitlin knocked on Josh's door.

'Are you finally awake?' she smiled, closing the door behind her.

He'd showered already smarting a pair of designer jeans and a trendy T shirt.

'Wow, you look so sexy!' he complimented, admiring her shapely legs in her fashionable shorts. Josh pulled her into his arms, placing a kiss on her lips. He smelt fresh from his shower, but sadly held no appeal for Caitlin.  When she touched Nicholas after a shower, she found it exciting, to slip her fingers through his wet hair. Josh on the other hand did not fuel such desires.

'Did you sleep well?' she disciplined her mind to show some interest in Josh.

'Like a baby,' he replied.

Josh's lips were hungry to possess hers. Caitlin mechanically responded. 

Josh is worth more than the pittance you offer,' her mind screamed.
Why are you holding out for Nicholas, who offers you nothing?

Caitlin groaned, forcing herself to put her arms around Josh. He mistook her groan as a sign of pleasure at his kisses. Caitlin held on tighter to Josh, her lips forceful, as if they were punishing Nicholas.

'Hey honey,' his breathing was heavy. 'If you keep that up, I won't be held accountable,' he pleaded.

'I'm sorry,' she whispered embarrassed, dropping her hands down, and avoiding his eyes.

'Don't be,' he smiled. 'There's nothing wrong with such passion, unless you're going to carry through with it,' he tested.

'I think, I'd better feed you breakfast,' she bucked, darting a finger into his chest.

'No,' he groaned, disappointed at her copout.

'Are you ravenously hungry?' she asked, a thought coming to her head.

'I have a healthy appetite,' he responded mischievously.

'No you pervert,' she giggled, pulling him by the hand, we're going for a walk.

He groaned in submission. They laughed as he allowed her to drag him out the door. But outside, she banged smack into Nicholas' body.

Not again!

  Only this time he offered no assistance. Nicholas glared angrily. He noted their laughing faces, their hands clasped into each other's.

'Sorry,' she said, leaving Josh's hand.

She noticed, he'd come back for some sheets of paper rolled in his hand. He just scowled, and continued on his way. 

'Does he ever smile?' Josh asked when they were out of earshot.

'Only on his days off, and I don't remember when exactly that is,' Caitlin responded.

 The next week Caitlin did not have much time to see Josh, they spoke on the telephone each day, but she could not tear away from her office much, with Simon out of the country. That seemed like a good enough excuse to avoid Josh when all she wanted was to be with Nicholas, but he had not called or visited. She'd seen Nicholas once at a business function, her company and his seemed to have the same interest in the Square Root Project.

She experienced a serious case of conflict of interest. She did not want to compete with Nicholas.  She knew she stood an excellent chance in being awarded the project. Caitlin was at her wits end. Her heart did not want to compete with Nicholas, she would rather it go to him.  She only hoped she would never be asked to justify the decision she was going to take. Nicholas had already questioned her integrity. She did not want to provide more fuel to ignite his distrust further.

A week later she was rather surprised to find out that Nicholas had also passed up the project.  She was even further astounded, when Simon informed her that he had discussed the project with Nicholas and Nicholas concurred with her analysis. Now she was confused, for she'd done the math and she knew it was a profitable opportunity not to be balked at.  Did Nicholas pass it up for the same reason she did? 

 A few days later, one of her girlfriends demanded she take a night out and have dinner with her, to which Caitlin grudgingly relented to. As the Maitre'd  guided them to their table, Caitlin's heart did a somersault, for there in her line of vision, sat Nicholas so adoringly handsome.  His eyes filled with laughter at whoever the blonde was that had him entranced.

Damn! She just could not keep up with the bloody string of women he dated.

Did he go to bed with all of them? Her envious heart wondered. She remembered Rebecca's proposal, to find him a girlfriend. If only Rebecca knew what all transpired between her and Nicholas, she would blow hot steam like a dinosaur.  Caitlin smiled to herself, though her heart was green with envy, seeing how strikingly beautiful, the very young blonde was.

'And that cynical smile?' her friend questioned Caitlin.

'You're about to find out' Caitlin whispered back to her.

 Nicholas stood up as their eyes locked. Courtesy demanded she just not walk past his table, without at least politely greeting him.

'Caitlin, good evening,' he smiled handsomely.

No cold war tonight. But then he was with another lover.

He had no reason to blow steam, not that he even had a right to do so! He was relaxed, his eyes filled with laughter, he politely waited for her to respond.

'Nicholas,' she responded coolly, reluctantly stopping at his table.

'Caitlin, I'd like you to meet Carrie my sister.  Carrie, meet Caitlin Sinclair.'

If Caitlin was not in such an envious state, she would have noticed the resemblance, the colour of the eyes, the smile, and the nose was definitely a Brenthurst trait.

'How do you do?' Caitlin smiled politely extending a hand to Carrie. 

'Hi.' Carrie's smile was fresh, polite and spontaneous.

'Jennifer Paton.' Caitlin introduced her friend.

'Jen meet Nicholas and Carrie Brenthurst.' 

'Carrie's just come back from Florence,' Nicholas added. 'She's been doing a photo shoot there for a travel magazine.'

'Italy?' Caitlin smiled.

'The girl knows her geography,' Nicholas quipped.

Caitlin glared at him. Carrie smiled, enjoying the banter. Caitlin glanced at Carrie. She did not look a day over eighteen, yet Caitlin estimated her to be over twenty one. She had glowing sandy blonde hair, her face beautiful, angelic like, with youthful innocence. Her smile was sincere, and she had the same intelligent, alert eyes, just like Nicholas. 'Florence?' Caitlin repeated, 'I'm going to have my honeymoon there,' Caitlin smiled mischievously at Carrie.

'Isn't that amazing,' Nicholas countered, 'seeing the pictures Carrie took, I had the same sentiments.'

Carrie very perceptively picked up the vibe between Nicholas and Caitlin.   'Shall we leave the room?' Carrie laughed in Jen's direction, 'so the two of them could discuss the prerequisites to indulge in a honeymoon?'

'I think you're onto something.' Jennifer responded equally suspiciously. 

'Lovely to meet you Carrie,' Caitlin smiled politely. 'Our table's waiting.'

'Why don't you join us?' Carrie pleaded, 'We've not ordered yet.'

Caitlin did not notice the admiring glances her way.  The soft romantic music that filtered from the speakers seemed to come from another building. Neither did she smell the sumptuous aroma of the Greek ingredients that filled the air from busy kitchen. All she could smell was the scent of his body and his cologne tingling her nose.  All she could taste was their last kiss, with their tongues deliciously wrapped around each. Even with her eyes closed, she could feel the contours of his cheekbones, his sturdy shoulders and the warmth and strength of his virile body pressed against hers.  

Inhaling deeply Caitlin cast a glance in Nicholas' direction, he nodded guardedly.

Don't fall over yourself, looking so enthusiastic!

Clearly he did not want her there. Perhaps he wanted nothing to do with her, because she was still with Josh.

'Some other time perhaps,' Caitlin responded courteously, walking to their table.  She made sure to choose the seat with her back to Nicholas.

'You want to tell me what that was all about?' Jen demanded. 'Who is this Nicholas? He's sooo gorgeous.'

A gorgeous brute, I agree.

'And what's this about a honeymoon? I did not know that there was a contender.'

Caitlin studied her friend as she fired her questions relentlessly.

'How do you know him? Jen urged.

'Which question do you want answered first?' Caitlin laughed, enjoying her friend's bewilderment.

'I bet his sister is giving him the third degree as well.' Jen speculated. 'Okay, out with it, who is he?'

Caitlin sighed deeply, 'he's a business associate of Stuart's. He's often there when I go to see my folks, and sometimes we seem to meet in the same business circles.'  Caitlin provided selectively.

'He's obviously got the hots for you Caitlin.  Why aren't the two of you dating?'

'It's complicating, next question.'

'Those bedroom eyes, they were making love to you,' her friend murmured, smacking her arm.

'Ouch! That's not a question, Caitlin nursed her arm.

'And about this honeymoon?' Jen enquired.

Caitlin laughed loudly.  'Tommy and I were indulging in our wildest fantasies,' she offered.  'So can we please order now?' Caitlin pleaded. 'I'm starving.'

'Mmm, and I bet it's not food on your mind right now!' Jen quipped.

'Oh, you're incorrigible!' Caitlin sighed.

And off course Jen was right. Seeing Nicholas again, was like opening the sluice gates of a dam, her emotions just ran riot. That chemistry between them knew no bounds. She felt that magnetic attraction standing next to him, just as much as she knew he did.  And she knew the unmistakable desire she saw in his eyes, were just as illustrative in her own eyes. She hoped Jen and Nicholas' sister could not tell the raw lust oozing from her eyes.

'So if you're seeing Josh, what's up between you and Nicholas?' Jen demanded, interrupting her thoughts.

'We're not involved.' Caitlin responded.

Technically speaking.

'I don't believe you.  There's far too much chemistry between the two of you!' Jen threw back.

Caitlin cringed silently. 'Would you believe Rebecca's having a baby.' Caitlin hoped to reroute the conversation.

'You're kidding!'

'I can't wait to be an aunt.' Caitlin smiled happily.

They were having coffee when Nicholas and Carrie came to say goodbye.

 'My folks are throwing me a welcome back party.' Carrie smiled 'I'd like it if you could be my guests tomorrow night.' Carrie invited both the ladies.

Caitlin did not want to look in Nicholas' direction, but then when did this stubborn body of hers pay attention, where he was concerned? Caitlin found her eyes trailing up to Nicholas enquiringly.

'I'm hearing it for the first time,' Nicholas answered her unasked question. 'Carrie only said she wanted to say goodnight.'

Jen and Carrie exchanged knowing glances at Nicholas' need to offer any justification to Caitlin.

'But I support her invitation,' Nicholas smiled at his sister.

'How long did you spend in Italy?' Jen was curious, as Caitlin silently debated on a response.

'Six months.' Carrie smiled, 'But I'd go back tomorrow, if my dad would allow me to emigrate,' she added.

'So will you two honour me with your presence?' she smiled expectantly.

'I'm afraid, duty calls,' Jen declined. 'I have a client function tomorrow, much as I'd love to join you.'

 All eyes fell on Caitlin. She knew she had nothing planned for the next day. Should she accept? Secretly she'd love the opportunity to be with Nicholas again, but should she take the risk?

'I suppose, I could make myself available.' Caitlin smiled at Carrie. 'You want to give me the address?' Caitlin enquired.

'Tell me what time you'd like to be picked up?' Nicholas offered. 'Seeing you don't like driving, I'll be the perfect gentleman,' he reminded her.

That was meant to be a private conversation between you and I!
Caitlin went scarlet.  Can he not keep his big mouth shut!

'There's more to these two than they're letting on,' Carrie whispered perceptively to Jennifer, but loud enough for them to hear.

'I wish I could offer some information there,' Rebecca replied, 'but it's like pulling teeth trying to get anything out of her.

'My brother is the same,' Carrie supplied.

'If you're done with the conspiracy theories, Inspector Clueso,' Nicholas smiled, 'I'd like to take you home.'

Carrie waved goodbye.

'Shall I pick you up at three?' Nicholas proposed.

Caitlin wishing she did not have to respond, just nodded.

'And I take it you know exactly where Caitlin lives?' Carrie grinned at her brother.

Caitlin wanted to squirm in her seat, she wished the air conditioning could provide some relief.

Nicholas whispered into his sister's ear, winking to the two ladies as he left. 

 Caitlin could not wait to be with Nicholas the next afternoon.   It could not come soon enough. She was literally counting the hours to three o' clock. She felt a few butterflies in her stomach at the thought of meeting Nicholas' parents. She was aware she was not officially going there to meet his parents, but knowing how she felt about him, her nerves got the better of her. Guiltily, her thoughts went to Josh. She knew she had to level with him. She'd actually been avoiding him lately. She could have made the time for him, if she really wanted to. Look how easily she was able to make time for Carrie, simply because she knew Nicholas would be there. She had to end the charade, it was not fair to Josh. Even if nothing progressed between her and Nicholas, she just did not have the energy any longer to invest in the relationship with Josh, it was just going nowhere.

 The minutes and seconds were taking too long. She slipped on a pair of white designer jeans that clung to her sexy frame. A sapphire blue silk shirt that showed off her curvaceous waist to advantage. It was half an hour to three, when her doorbell rang.

Please don't let it be Josh.

She looked at her wristwatch. Murphy's Law!  When she was expecting Josh, Nicholas was at the door and vice versa. Today she wanted to be with Nicholas, she was not done with her accessories, but she thought she'd better get the door. 

Please don't let it be Josh, she offered a silent prayer.

She opened the door to see Nicholas gorgeously dressed in designer stone washed jeans, and a crisp white lounge shirt. She choked on her breath, at how adorable he looked. The shirt buttons opened to reveal a mat of hair that begged to be touched. A navy sports jacket completed his stunning looks.

'Hi,' she smiled, hoping her eyes did not betray her secret joy at seeing him.

'I know I'm early,' he said, 'I couldn't wait to see you,' he murmured, taking her into his arms and hugging her against his body. He just held her in his arms as if it was a source to renew his energy.

'I've missed you,' he confessed eventually after some moments.

She leaned back a little, her eyes searching his.  'You did? I didn't skip the country!' she replied sarcastically.

'Do you have to be so cruel my darling?'

Her eyes locked on his, 'And his eyes are not even closed,' she teased him, though secretly ecstatic at the endearment, remembering the last time he used it, he'd refused to allow her to look into his eyes.

'Are you going to have a dig at me the entire afternoon?' he moaned.

In response her lips touched his.  Her mouth slowly covered his.  Her tongue searching, drawing his. They groaned simultaneously.  Caitlin wrapped her arms tightly around Nicholas, loving the pleasure of being in his arms. His hungry mouth could not get enough of her, teasing, trailing a path around her upper lip, then wrapping itself around her tongue, sending a wave of electrical excitement throughout her body. She clung to him her body pressing into him.  She did not want any space separating their bodies. Caitlin whispered a soft sigh at the erotic pleasure of his loving. His hand slipped under her top, unhooking her lacy bra, cupping her breast. Caitlin moaned softly, her fingers sliding over his chest, running over the mat of hair. The well toned muscles under her palm delighting in her touch. She could feel Nicholas' haggard breath on her cheek.  A pulse beat erratically on his throat, as her teeth nibbled over his flesh. His lips were gently applying pressure on her skin. Caitlin pulled away before he got carried away and left evidence on her neck. He lifted his head, his eyes dark with emotion, oblivious to the effects of his caressing.

'What's wrong?' he whispered.

Caitlin blushed, 'The last time you did that, I had bruises that stayed a few days,' she murmured.

'Oh.' He looked as if he wanted to say something further, then kissed her softly on her lips, holding her in his arms, showing no sign of wanting to let go.

I think we should stop right now! Her brain was cautioning.

Nicholas moaned deeply, kissing her hungrily, stirring her up all over again.

'I take it we should get going,' he felt her restraint, reluctant to stop.

'Yes, we should,' Caitlin agreed.

'I prefer to stay here with you,' he complained.

'I need a minute,' Caitlin ignored his plea slipping out of his arms.

Actually she needed a lot of minutes. Her knees felt like they were going to collapse.  Her body wanted him to join her on her inviting bed. She needed to fix her bra again.

'Fix yourself a drink, I won't be long,' she invited.

'Would you like one?' he asked.

'Yes please,' she replied. 

Why couldn't everyday with Nicholas, be pure bliss, like the last ten minutes were?
Caitlin was just adding on the earrings, when Nicholas walked into her bedroom, with her wine.

Does he think he can just walk into my bedroom!

Her eyes caught his in the mirror, unable to take her eyes away. 'Do you make a habit of walking into a lady's bedroom?' she spoke softly.

'Only yours,' he replied, 'but then I seem to break all the rules where you are concerned.'

He stood behind her, his arms circling her waist.

'You have rules.  Could have fooled me!' she quipped.

He groaned painfully, 'Like I said where you are concerned they fly out the window, but in other areas of my life, they're pretty rigid,' he told her matter of fact.

Oh he was too close for her sanity. And they were so much closer to that attractive bed. She sipped on her wine, pondering on what he'd just revealed.

'I won't be long,' she dragged her attention back to what she needed to do.

'Take your time.' he offered, making himself comfortable on her bed, his hands behind his head.

Caitlin groaned silently, painfully trying not to look at the way he was tempting her to join him on her bed.

'I just want to watch you,' he spoke, as she was mentally congratulating herself for her discipline so far.

 She hooked her earrings on, then touched up her lips. She was finished, and then her nerves failed her, her eyes were drawn back to the attractive figure lounging invitingly on her bed. His dark eyes intense, as he held her gaze. 

I am not coming to you!

He read that loud and clear. Nicholas went to her, standing behind her. Caitlin could feel her own breathing become uneven. He held her against his chest, his eyes stayed on her in the mirror. His palms slid down her waist seductively, lingered on her thighs. Caitlin wanted to scream from frustration. His fingers were causing havoc where they stayed. He placed his lips on her earlobe, his tongue gently teasing. Caitlin closed her eyes, unable to endure the erotic agony. She leaned her head against his shoulder, drinking in the blissful delight he aroused in her. She quickly turned around in his arms. Her mouth hastily seeking his, her fingers slid into his hair, pulling him closer to her. There was no more restraint. Her lips moved from his mouth, to his neck, then back again, her tongue caressing him all over his face, his ears, his chest hungrily. Nicholas pinned her to him, his fingers cupping her petit bottom, moulding her to him. She could feel his erect manhood press against her pelvis. The moist part inside her, wanting more. She longed to experience more of him, all of him. Caitlin pushed him away gently.

'Nicholas, please let's leave.'

That was not her voice that spoke now.  It felt too husky and wanton.

You want all of him! Get a grip on yourself Sinclair.
She saw the bulge under his pants. Her fingers wanted to reach out and just caress the beautiful erect form. She closed her eyes turning away. But not before she saw the effort he himself was making to exercise restraint and discipline to curb his overwhelming desire to keep her in his arms. It did not seem like Nicholas was having any success.

 'Do we have to?' he stood his ground, his eyes pleading.

She knew what he was asking.   She wanted it too. But all he was offering was sex and nothing more. She wanted more than he was prepared to offer. How she longed to be with him. Just to be together. Chatting, holding hands, drinking wine, sitting at the fireplace, and enjoying each other's company. She knew she had to be subtle in declining his unspoken request, she did not want him storming off again.

'I can imagine the wisecracks from Carrie if we don't make it there,' she replied. 

She heard his long drawn out breath, accurately reading her decision.

'Okay, let's go,' he said reluctantly.

 Nicholas had arrived in a huge black SUV. She took two steps forward and stopped dead in her tracks. 'You have got to be kidding me!' she glared at him.

'Caitlin?' he questioned her, all confused.

'Did you have to come with this bloody tractor? Do you think I'm a horse? How the hell am I supposed to get into the damn thing?'

Nicholas laughed.

'Do you think it's funny? You have the nerve __'

There was only one way he knew to shut her up.

                                                 -End Chapter Six-