Down Low (M/L,ADULT) Chapter 20 & Epilogue 6/24/05

[Lady Scorpio]

Thanks to Hybrid-Angel for my cool banner

Down Low
Author: Lady Scorpio
Catagory: Mainly M/L, CC, original characters
Rating: Adult, I’ll give a warning beforehand.
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Characters of Roswell belong to someone else. Down Low belongs to R. Kelly and his people, I’m just borrowing them. If this story resembles anyone else, it is clearly by coincidence.
Summary: Inspired by R. Kelly’s Down Low.
Max was stuck in a dead end job, and didn’t see a way out of his runt. That is until one day he has a run in with the towns notorious gangsta ‘Slim’. Max never thought that when he accepted a job from Slim that his loyalty would be tested each day by no other then Slim’s girl…Elizabeth.

This is going to be my first shot at POV, so please be gentle. It’s going to be in Max’s POV, I just hope I can do it justice. XOXOX


Listen girl you want me
but he needs you
Yet you're tellin' me that everything is cool
Tryin' to convince me baby to do as you say
Just go along and see things your way

And keep it on the down low
Nobody has to know
We can keep it on the down low
Nobody has to know

Secret lovers is what you wanna be
While making love to him girl
you're silently calling on me
What is a man to do in a situation like this?
I feel there is something that I don't wanna miss

And keep it on the down low
Nobody has to know
We can keep it on the down low
Nobody has to know

Beautiful you are but you're his by far
Comin' by my way drivin' his fancy car
Making plans to be in my life forever
Tell me, tell me that we'll always be together

Keep it on the down low
Nobody has to know
We can keep it on the down low
Nobody has to know



~Prologue~

I smile as I see her form come into view. She’s wearing the yellow dress that makes her look even more like the sun. As I stride toward her, I can’t help my smile as it widens to unorthodox proportion. She is the epitome of beauty. The slight breeze catches her long brown tresses and I can’t help but to just stop and stare at her for a moment. Her face is lit up with a smile that mirrors my own and her head’s tilted slightly as if studying me. As I resume my trek toward her, I noticed that her smile fades and her eyes widen.

“Maaxx!” I hear her call out to me as a car suddenly pulls up behind me. I turn just in time to see the window roll down and the barrel of a gun staring me in the face. Without thinking, I turn and take out in a dead run toward her.

I heard the shot as it rung out, felt the sting in my left leg and then another burning sensation in my back, but it didn’t matter. My only focus was to get to her...to protect her.

I vaguely feel it as she pushes me off her. Vaguely hear her voice as she frantically calls my name. I blink back the tears that appeared out of nowhere, to see her face as it hovers above me, her tears landing in hot splashes upon my cheek. Man, I hate to see her cry. I reach out to brush the straggling tears from her cheek, noticing how my hand shakes uncontrollably.

“It’s okay Max...you’re going to be okay” she hiccups, brushing her soft hands across my forehead. I take comfort in her words as I feel my eyes grow heavy and all I want to do is go to sleep.

I guess you’re wondering how I got myself into this predicament. It’s funny, because sometimes I find myself wondering the same thing...Damn!

~~~~~~~~~~

So what do you think, should I continue?

XOXOXOXO

LS

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 1

One year earlier

“Evans” I hear Bill call out to me, “Tony wants you to clean out the stalls when you’re finish” he says as I drive the last post into place. Yeah right, if that fat bastard thinks I’m about to shove horse shit, he must be certifiable. I look up and see Bill smiling cockily at me. Bill was a grade A ass kisser, and did anything to get on Tony’s good side, mainly, pissing me off.

“Tell Clyde to do it, I’m taking a break” I ignore his bitchy whines as he calls after my retreating form. Asshole. Sliding on my T-shirt, I look at my watch and realize I have just enough time to catch the next race.

“What’s up Maxwell” I smile at the familiar voice behind me? I turn to see, Michael’s grinning face.

“What’s up man” I greeted as he takes my hand in a firm grip? I met Mike a few years back when I first came to Roswell. I don’t know where I would be if Michael hadn’t offered me a place to crash until I found my own place. He’s a good guy, kind of on the grumpy side, but he has a good heart.

“I haven’t seen you around lately” he says, falling in step beside me as I head toward the stands.

“I’ve been around,” I reply as we reach the counter to place our bets. I know I shouldn’t be betting money I can’t afford to lose, but what the hell, I feel lucky. Taking a look down at the sheet, I read over the odds. My lips curve into a smile as I see my favorite horse in the next race. I quickly place my bet on Lucky Lady and wait patiently as Mike places his own bet.

“More like hiding” he chuckles, dodging the hit I try to inflict upside his head. “You know Red is looking for you,” he continues, “says you owe him a grand.” He cuts a sidewards glance at me, but doesn’t say anything. So I have a slight gambling problem, but it’s not like I’m in need of Gamblers Anonymous or anything like that. I just like to make small wagers every now and then.

“Red can suck me” he laughs as we head over to the concession stand.

“Guess who else is looking for you” he can barely contain the huge smirk that spreads across his face? I groaned, already knowing who he was talking about.

“Tess” my mouth fills with a bitter taste even mentioning her name. Michael nods, a look of pity crossing his face briefly before he’s laughing at me once again.

“Dude, I don’t know what you did to her, but she’s been following you around like a bitch in heat” he hoots, and this time he doesn’t move quick enough to reflect my hand as it collided with his head.

“Hey” he calls out and the next thing I know, we’re having a mock boxing match. People around us are annoyed and some of them even huff at our childish behavior.

“Seriously man, you have to do something about her” he pants as we finally quit horsing around, “she’s calling the club all the time looking for you and when she’s not calling, she’s posted up in the bar . . . what did you do to her” he shakes his head as I take a drink of my Coke. I wince at the bland taste, but what can I do? I’m on the job, although it’s a shitty job, I can’t afford to lose it.

“Man, I fucked her once . . . the next thing I know, she’s talking about having my baby . . . marriage and shit like that” who the hell talks about marriage and kids after only one date.

“You’re shit must be made of gold if you got her sprung like that” Mike chuckles.

“Or she’s psycho” I corrected. We share a laugh as we stand against the rail waiting for the race to begin. I wait with bated breath as the gates fly open and the horses jet out like lighting. “Come on girl” I mumble as Lucky Lady swiftly takes the lead. The race is in the home stretch when I notice Lucky’s speed declines before turning into a trotting limp and just like that, I’ve lost half of this months rent.

“Tough break man” Michael gloats. His horse Midnight, came though . . . lucky bastard. “Hey, you coming by the club later” he asked as we head back up the stands and I toss my ticket in a nearby trash. Thinking I had nothing better to do, I tell him I’ll see him there before we parted. Him to collect his winnings and me, back to the shit mines.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tracking into my apartment, I close the door quickly, successfully blocking out the loud music coming from down the hall where a group of kids gathers. I toss my keys on the couch as I shift through the mail. I don’t know why I bother to even check it. All I ever receive is junk mail. Before I can even get good and settled, my phone blurs to life. As I check the caller ID, I rolled my eyes as ‘T. Harding’ jumps across the LCD. “Get a life” I grumble, ignoring the persisted ringing as I trek down the small hallway of my apartment, stripping the sweat and grime-covered clothes from my body. Making my way into the bathroom, I step under the pulsating sprays of the shower. I briefly ponder what I’m going to do about rent. Maybe I can ask Michael for a loan until payday.

Twenty minutes and two bowls of cereals later, I’m flopping down on the small cot I consider a bed, my muscles hurt from the long days work I’ve put in. Looking over at the clock, I see I have just enough time for some quick shut eye before meeting Mike down at the club. Ensuring to unplug the phone, I close my eyes for some much needed, undisturbed sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~

Manny’s is bumping as always on Friday nights as I walk upon the scene. Several of the ladies try to catch my attention as I make my way to the front of the line. Women. I see that Brick is minding the door tonight and smile. Brick, that’s exactly what he’s built like . . . a Brickhouse. I mean the guys huge. 6'5, three hundred and fifty pounds of solid brick. I consider myself a tough guy, able to hold my own, but I definitely wouldn’t want to have a run-in with him.

“What’s up Brick” I greet coolly, noticing the way he glares hard at some teenagers as they try to get in on fake ID’s ?

“Get out of here” he growls at them. Scared shitless, they quickly hightailed it out of there.

“Maxwell” he finally acknowledges my presence. A cocky smirk graces the corner of his mouth.
“What are you doing here,” he asked, “you know Manny’s still pissed at you?” Did I forget to mention I use to work here. Mike got me a job as a bartender working along side him when I first came into town. The thing is, I don’t take orders to well. I guess you can say I have a thing with authority. Manny had it bad ordering his staff around as if they were beneath him. Always telling them what to do instead of asking the nicely. He thought that since he was writing your check, he could treat you like shit. He mistook me for one of his yes men. I mean I’m a grown ass man. I don’t take orders from anybody. All you have to do is ask me, and I’ll gladly do it, but that ordering shit will only piss me off. Needless to say, we had gotten into several altercations behind it which ended up with me smashing his precious glass mirror bar table and his jaw.

“He’ll get over it” I grin. He shakes his head at me but steps aside and lets me through. The music is loud as sweaty bodies gyrated against each other on the dance floor. I squeeze my way through the mass of sexually charged bodies to the bar where I see Michael serving up the troops.

“Let me get a Screaming Red-head” I slammed my hand down on the bar with a wide grin. Michael turns to me and nods his head in greeting before finishing up a voluptuous brunette at the counter. I lean back to admire her shapely bottom which is encased in a too little leather mini-skirt, that shows off her tan legs. I watch her walk off with her order, her hips swaying to the pulse of the music. There’s definitely one thing I miss about working at Manny’s...all the fine ladies.

“What’s up man...didn’t think you’d make it” Michael says as he now standing in front of me, pulling my attention away from ass-watching.

I shrug, “Overslept” is my only explanation. We pound fist before he starts making me a drink...gin and coke, the only thing I drink. As he prepares it, a fast song begins to croon over the large speakers and I drum my fingers against the bar.

“I don’t know what the hell a Screaming Red-head is,” Michael chuckles as he places my drink down in front of me, “but I know there’s a Psycho Blonde at twelve o’clock” he warns and I stiffen.

“Shit,” I clutch the glass in my hand, “did she see me?” praying to God she hasn’t spotted me. I’m not in the mood to deal with Tess tonight.

“Sorry man,” Mike smirks, “she’s definitely heading your way” he quickly moves to the end of the bar, leaving me to face Psycho girl alone.

“Max” her high-pitch voice irritates the hell out of me.

I turned, giving her a small scowl, “Tess” I say tightly.

“Where have you been,” she continues, obviously not put off by my tart response, “I’ve been calling you all week” her full lips sticking out in a pout. Now don’t get me wrong, Tess was a nice lay and could give head like no other, but like I said...she’s a crazy stalker.

“I’ve been busy” I supply, hoping she takes the hint. I can see Michael laughing at me out the corner of my eye. Oh he will pay.

“Too busy even for me,” she presses her barely conceal, large breast against my arm as her hand travels up my thigh. “Why don’t we go back to your place...we can practice making babies” see, did I forget to mention she was crazy.

Before her hand could reach my groin, I grab it and stand from the stool, “Sorry Tess,” I said at her confused look, “I really have to pee” I down the rest of my drink and make a mad rush to the back of the club before she can even voice her protest.

After hiding out in the bathroom for the next five minutes, I cautiously step out of the bathroom, ready to dodge back in at the slightest strip of blonde hair I see. When it seems safe, I venture farther out onto the dance floor, standing close to the DJ booth. The music is loud and the floor packed. To the right of me, I notice the brunette from the bar earlier as she dances with two other females. Both of them blonde, one taller then the other, but both with killer bodies. Fine as they may be, they have nothing on the petite brunette dancing sensually with them. I feel my body respond, and I haven’t even seen her face yet. She turns as if feeling my burning eyes raking over her body, and we lock eyes. She continues to dance with the music, her hips rocking back and forth in a hypnotizing moves. Never once did her eyes leave mine. A slow, sexy smile graces her lips as she motioned me forward with a slender finger. Her eyes are calling me. Her body’s calling me...and God help me, I’m about to answer the call.

Before I could take a step in her direction, a mass of blonde curls step into my view. “There you are, I’ve been looking for you all over” Tess wraps her arms around my waist. I look down at her annoyed before looking back up and find that she is gone. I untangle Tess’ man eating claws from around me. I resist the urge to slap the hell out of Tess, but I’ve never hit a woman before, and I’m not going to start now, no matter how much she deserves it. Instead, I quickly go in search of her. In my superfluous search, I slam into someone hard.

“Watch where the hell you’re going” a voice says, and I turn only to come face to face with none other then Slim and his crew.

~~~~~~~~~~

A/N...Thanks so much for your wonderful f/b and giving this story a chance. I do have a question though, like I said earlier this is my first shot at POV, how do you think it's going so far. Any words of advise is welcomed.

Thanks Again, hope you liked the update.

XOXOXOXOX

LS

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 2

Okay, now, my mom always said that I didn’t know when to keep my mouth shut and that one day my sharp tongue was going to write a check my ass couldn’t cash. Why should I prove her wrong today?

“You watch where the hell you’re going” I glare at him. I was already frustrated at having lost the cute little brunette. I didn’t have time for this shit. The entire club grew so quite you could actually hear a pin drop. Every eye seems to dart from me to Slim, waiting on his reaction. We stood there, eyeing each other, neither one of us backing down. One his men stepped forward, but surprisingly Slim held him back, a smile slowly danced across his lips before turning into a full out laughter. Michael cocked an eyebrow at me and I shrug, keeping my eye trained on the trio in front of me.

“I like you kid . . . what’s your name” Slim finally asked once he’s composed himself.

“It ain’t kid” I raise an eyebrow at him and he chuckles.

“I know you” one of his men says, “you work at the racetrack . . . what’s it you do . . . oh yeah, shovel horse shit” he laughs, slapping fists with his buddy.

“Well I’d rather shovel shit, then sniff it off some ones ass Brown-nose” Michael tries to cover up his laugh with a cough beside me. See, there goes that sharp tongue my mother warned me about.

“How about I kick your ass Shitboy” he growled, stepping into my face.

“You really want to take that chance Brown-nose” I retort, taking my own step forward. We stood centimeters apart. Man, hasn’t he heard of Tictac’s?

“Chill out Sean,” Slim’s voice finally breaks through our testosterone battle, “why don’t you get . . . ” he looks at me expectantly.

“Max” I supplied.

“Max . . . why don’t you get Max here and I some drinks” I could tell he wanted to protest, but he knew better. I smirk as he glares at me hard before going off and doing as he was told.

“Max,” Slim slaps me on the back, breaking the staring contest I was having with Brown-nose, “why don’t you join me at my table” he didn’t give me a chance to respond before he’s pulling me off to the back of the club toward the VIP section.

“Get lost” he orders a couple of females sitting at the table that were obviously waiting there for his entertainment. They quickly scramble away from the table and left the two of us alone. I can see Michael watching us like a hawk, probably wondering the same thing I was. What the hell was Slim up to?

“You smoke” he asks, holding out a cigar case to me?

“I don’t particularly care for the smell” I raise an eyebrow at him and he seems to study me before putting the cigar back into the case. Sean arrives a few minutes later with our drinks, and I don’t miss the scowl he sends my way.

“So Max” he takes a swig from his drink, “I could really use someone like you working for me” he finishes.

“Me . . . you don’t even know me” I remind him.

“True . . . but I’ve always been a good judge of character . . . and my instincts have never stirred me wrong” he shrugs, downing the rest of his drink. Now I’m not stupid. I know what Slim does for a living. He’s well known around Roswell for his acts of extortion and drug trafficking. It wasn’t a shop in town that wasn’t under Slim’s thumb, including Manny’s.

“Your instincts, huh, what are your instincts telling you about me” I question, raising my own glass to my lips.

“I can tell you’re a hard-working man, much like myself at your age. I also can tell you don’t take shit from no one. I could use someone like you who’s not afraid to speak his mind . . . not like these fucking yes man I got now” he looks at me, I guess waiting on my response.

“Look, I appreciate the interest, but I’m not looking for a job . . . especially one that could get me ten to twenty in a state prison” I stood up, placing a couple of bills on the table.

“Max” he calls after me, he hands me a slip of paper with what I assume is his number on it, “in case you ever get tired of shoveling shit” he slaps me on the back before walking off, Brown-nose and the rest of his lackeys following him.

“What the hell was that about” Michael asked anxiously, as he comes to stand beside me?

“Nothing, he actually offered me a job” I tell him.

“No shit” he ask in disbelief.

“No shit” I return. Suddenly I see a mass of blonde curls heading our way through the crowd and I turn to Michael. “Hey, I’m going to call it a night, I’ll see you tomorrow, right?”

“You know it. There’s no way you’re getting out of the ass kicking I’m going to hand you on the court” he grins.

“Yeah, in your dreams” we trade punches before I quickly make my exit out the side door, escaping Tess’ clasp another day.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Hi Max” I’m greeted by my neighbor’s eight-year-old daughter Chloe as I make my way down the sidewalk.

“Hey LoLo, what are you doing out here so late” I ask, taking a seat beside her on the stoop? By the way she lowers her eyes sadly, I already know the answer. Chloe’s mom is what my grandmother would call a working girl. When she was ‘entertaining,’ she would make Chloe leave the apartment. It has been plenty of nights I’ve come home to find Chloe on the front stoop or asleep on the floor at their apartment door, but it has never been this late before. Taking a look at my watch, I see that it’s a little after two in the morning. Doesn’t Tori know it’s dangerous to leave her daughter outside at this time of the night? The world is full of sick perverts ready to take advantage of innocent little girls like Chloe.

“Come on,” I stand to my feet, pulling her with me, “how about I make you some warm milk and we can watch the Simpson DVD box set I just got” she nods her head, smiling brightly before slipping her tiny hand into mine, her other hand clutching a tattered stuffed bunny. I guess that’s why Toni never worries, she knows I’ll always take care of Chloe.

I’m not surprise to see an eviction notice on my door as we walked up. Actually I’ve been expecting it for some time now, seeing how I haven’t paid rent this month and it’s the end of the month. I snatch the notice from the door, scanning it briefly.

“Bastard” I mumble under my breath, seeing that he only gave me two days to come up with the rent or be thrown out on my ass. Chloe looks up at me with wide eyes, and I send her an apologetic smile. Quickly stuffing the notice into my pocket, I slid the key into the lock.

“You know where everything is,” I tell her, making my way into the kitchen. I fix her a small sandwich and warm up her milk in the microwave before heading back into the living room. She has already grabbed a blanket and pillow that I keep for her and cuddled up on the couch as I set the DVD.

“Comfortable?” I smile as I join her on the sofa.

“Yeah” she nodded, nibbling on the sandwich. Not even ten minutes into the first episode, I look to see Chloe fast asleep, her sandwich hanging loosely from her fingers. Grabbing the remote, I flicked off the television and wrapped the blanket securely around her.

“Sweet dreams Lolo” I whisper, brushing my lips over her forehead.

“Night Max” her sleepy mumble reaches my ears, causing me to smile. After a quick shower, I fall bonelessly onto my bed. As I feel myself drifting to sleep, I pray for dreams of the cute little brunette from Manny’s.

~~~~~~~~~~

“I need an advance” I tell Tony the next day. Unfortunately, Michael was completely broke he had spent his winnings paying on his motorcycle and wouldn’t be able to help me out until next week.

“You know I can’t do that Max” Tony answers, puffing on his stinking pipe.

“Why the hell not” I glare, knowing for a fact that he gave Bill advances all the time? I guess since I won’t kiss his ass like everyone else, I’m not worthy.

“Because I can’t . . . now get back out there and finish that fence and when you’re done, I want you to repair the stable door” he says.

“I just fixed it the other day” I retort.

“Well Sugar got loose and things got a little wild” he chuckled, but stopped when he saw that I was laughing.

“This is bullshit, tell Bill to do it . . . I’m done” I stand up, barely containing my anger. I mean I do more work then half the men around here, break my back day in and day out, and yet he can’t even advance me a few days pay . . . this is bullshit.

“Max, if you walk out of that door . . . don’t even bother coming back” he yells at me.

“Trust me, I won’t” I slam the door behind me, cutting of his angry rants. He knows he just lost the best worker he had.

When I arrive back at my apartment a few hours later, I find Red sitting on the stoop.

“What’s up Max” he asks causally?

“I told you you’ll get your money” I snapped.

“Yeah, but that was two weeks ago . . . I’m here to collect” he stood up intima tingly. Of course I would have been if he wasn’t like a foot shorter then me.

“Look Red,” I run a tired hand over my face, “I’m going to get you your money, but right now I’m low on ends . . . if you can just hold on another week or so, you’ll have your money plus interest.”

“You know what, I like you Max . . . and you’ve always held true to your word,” he begins, “so I’m going to give you two weeks . . . ” he places a cigarette in his mouth, giving me what I suppose was to be a scary glare.

“Thanks man” he nods tightly before taking off. I watched him for a moment, wondering where I was going to come up with rent in two days and a thousand dollars. Making my way into my apartment, I toss my keys on the table. Something falls off it as the keys collide with it. Bending down, I see it’s the paper that Slim had wrote his number on. I sit down heavily on the sofa. I can’t believe I’m even considering taking him up on his offer. I mean, did I really want to get into that kind of scene. Then again, I’m now in need of a job.

“What the hell” I picked up the phone, quickly punching in the number.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Max,” Slim greets me as I’m lead into his office, “I’m glad you changed your mind” he smile, reaching out his hand.

“What can I say,” I shrug, “I needed a job?” He chuckles, taking his seat once again. I stand there as he eyes me up and down.

“Lets get something straight . . . you fuck me and I will kill you . . . understood?”

“Message received” I answer, still standing in the middle of the room, waiting on him to say something more.

“Good . . . good, glad we’re on the same page” he stands up and comes to stand beside me. “Now, lets get you settled in” he grins, “BELLA!” he calls at the top of his lungs.

“You don’t have to shout . . . I’m not deaf asshole” a silky voice comes from behind us and I turn to see a tall, curvaceous blonde standing before me.

“What have I told you about disrespecting me in front of people” Slim growls, and I watch in amusement as he and the blonde get into a heated argument? Occasionally she would slip into speaking something that sounds a lot like Italian before he mumbles something under his breath and she quickly snaps her mouth shut. For some reason she looks familiar, but for the life of me, I can’t place her at the moment.

“Come on” she grabs me by the hand, sending a glare at Slim before we’re heading out the door. I try to keep up with her long angry strides as she grumbles and curses under her breath beside me.

“Who the hell does he think he is,” she mumbles, “thinking he can boss me around like one of his lap dogs” I raise an eyebrow at her? “No offense” she turns to me.

“None taken” I smile.

“Sometimes he just can be so . . . so . . . ” she stumbles.

“Infuriating” I offer.

“Yeah” she blows out a heavy breath, causing her bangs to fly up in a disheveled mess. Her heels click loudly on the expensive marble floor as she leads me out to the garage where she climbs into a drop-top ‘64 Impala.

“Damn” I let out an envious whistle.

“Watch the drool . . . I just had her washed” she teases. I can’t help but to run my hands over her cherry red body and cream colored leather seats. “Slim got her for me for my birthday” she tells me as I slide onto the passenger’s seat.

“He must be a pretty cool boss . . . to get you a ride like this” I observe as she maneuvers the car onto the busy street.

“Boss” she snorted in disgust, “Slim’s my brother” she groans, her hand tightening around the cream-colored fur steering wheel cover.

“Your brother?” I look at her in surprise.

“Yeah, but I don’t claim him” she laughs softly. I laugh with her, the rest of the ride continuing in comfortable silence.

“What are we doing here” I raise an eyebrow as we pull up to some shop called ‘Blondie’s?’

“We,” she slid on her shades and stepped out of the car, “are getting you some new threads.” I resist the urge to groan. I really hate shopping.

~~~~~

Hope you enjoy

XOXOXOXO

LS

[Lady Scorpio]

You know I just realized that part three had been lost in the move. I don't know how I could have overlooked that, but as I was writing part four I kept seeing my title read chapter two...I'll repost part three and part four is coming soon.

XOXOXOXO

LS

Chapter 3

I try not to flinch when her hand brushes innocently against my groin as she measures my in-seam. Staring down at her bent head, I blush furiously as I see the slight tent in my boxers that I’m pretty sure she’s aware of. What can I say? It’s the closest a woman has been down there in three months.

“Whoa there big boy,” Maria giggles as she pats my thigh and stands up. “You could put a girl’s eye out,” she teases and I can feel my entire face grow bright red in embarrassment. She winks at me before pinching my blazing cheeks. At first I had been hesitant about this whole shopping thing, but Maria and Isabel definitely know how to make a man feel very comfortable.

“I think blue will look good on you Max . . . especially with your broad shoulders and hard chest,” Isabel says in admiration as she holds up yet another dress shirt for me to try on. I slip on the shirt. I can’t help the slight arousal I get from the way the silk caresses my bare skin, or maybe it’s the way both of the perfectly manicured hands are running all over my body. Definitely the latter.

“Here you go,” Maria’s assistant hands me a pair of slacks. Come to find out, Maria owns ‘Blondie’s.’ I’m not sure what to make of her just yet. From the short amount of time I’ve spent with her so far, I know she’s a real firecracker that knows what she wants and from the way she doesn’t hold her tongue, I’m quite sure she always gets what she wants. I let out a surprised yelp when she gooses me.

“You have much to nice of an ass to be constricted by tighty whitey’s,” she states, her hand still running over my now tense ass. “You should switch to boxers . . . or commando,” she whispers in my ear as she and Isabel share a mutual nod of agreement.

“Thanks,” I mumble, feeling slightly flustered from all the attention.

“Why don’t you go try those on with the shirt and let us take a look at you?” she hands me the jacket and ushers me inside of one of the lively decorated dressing rooms. I seriously don’t know what the big deal is. According to Isabel, Slim felt I needed a wardrobe change. Personally I like wearing my old Levi’s and T-shirt. I quickly dress, adding the tie and shoes Isabel threw in. After I’m finish, I take a look in the full length mirror.

“Are you going to come out or are we going to have to come in there after you?” Maria giggles, and I take another glace at myself before stepping out onto the floor.

“Damn,” Isabel gawks as she makes a full circle around me.

“Double damn,” Maria whistles, running her hand over my chest. “Not bad . . . not bad at all, but there’s something missing,” I watch her as she ran to the back of the store before returning a few seconds later with a box. She opens the box and pulls out a black felt Stetson, complete with a blue feather tucked neatly in the side. She places it on my head and steps back, a wide grin plastering on her face. “Now you look good enough to eat,” she clicks her tongue, gesturing for me to have a look for myself. As I stare at myself in the mirror, I can’t help but think I look like one of those old mobsters from the Godfather or that movie The Untouchables. The only difference was . . . I looked good.

Three hours and thousands of bags later, I sit beside Isabel as she drives us down Main Street. “So Max, tell me about yourself,” she flashes her pearly whites at me.

“Not much to tell,” I shrug. I’m still trying to figure out how the hell Slim and the rest of them wear these suits and the fucking desert.

“You get use to get,” she nods toward me. “The suits, you get use to wearing them. Slim has always been fascinated with mob movies and their style of dress,” she rolls her eyes and I can’t help but appreciate their honey tone. “Any way, back to you telling me about yourself,” I shift uncomfortable in my seat. My family and past is something I’ve never felt comfortable talking about. I guess she must’ve picked up on my discomfort because she suddenly changes the subject and starts telling me about herself instead. When we pull up to ‘Dino’s’ thirty minutes later, I quickly jump out of the car and make my way over to the drivers side and open her door.

“Thank you. You’re such a gentleman,” she coos, cupping my cheek and placing a tender kiss upon my lips. “I swear if you scratch her, I will personally kick your ass,” she tells the valet as she hands him the keys to her ‘baby.’

“Yes ma’am,” the nervous boy answered before sliding into the driver’s seat.

“Shall we?” Isabel smiles, lacing her arm through mine as we head inside the restaurant. Although I pass Dino’s several times, I’ve never actually been inside before. The place was a little out of my McDonald’s budget, but I’ve always wondered what it was like. I scan the interior of the place, noticing all the fancy art and expensive furniture.

“Ah, Isabella, it is so good to see you again,” Isabel hugs some suave looking guy as soon as we enter.

“Alfonso, it’s always a pleasure,” the two of them continue to flirt shamelessly as I stand there looking like a fish out of water. “Alfonso, this is Max,” she finally introduces me. “Max’s new to the family, so I want you to treat him with the finest this evening,” she instructed.

“Most definitely Bella. Right this way,” he leads us to the very back of the restaurant which is separated from the rest of the dining area by a large velvet curtain.

“Ah, Maxwell, I’m glad you could join us,” Slim stands and greets me as soon as we pass through the curtain. I shake his hand and feel everyone at the table eyes on me. “I take it that Bella and Maria took excellent care of you this afternoon,” he sends a pointed stare his sister’s way. I try not to laugh when she crosses her eyes and sticks out her tongue out at him.

“Yes, they did. They were great,” I wink at her. What’s this? She’s blushing.

“Good . . . good. Let me introduce you to the family,” he turns to the large table surrounded by several people. “You already know Sean,” he starts. Brown-nose snorts, but nods his head in greeting. “Next to him, my cousin Donatello my great-aunt Angelina,” he winks at the elderly woman sitting to the right of Sean. “And that there’s Kyle,” motioning toward the other guy that had been with him that night at Manny’s.
“What’s up man?” he mumbles around a mouth full of food. Isabel lets out a disgusted sound beside me, and I nod in hello. Slim walks over to a little girl around ten-years-old.

“This is my little cousin Carmina,” he strokes her head tenderly. I smile as Carmina looks up at me shyly before speaking a soft ‘hi.’

“And this beautiful young woman is my momma,” I watch as he places a kiss on her cheek and she says something to him in Italian that makes him blush before she stands up, coming toward me. I quickly remove my hat.

“Ma’am,” I smile warmly.

“Maxwell,” she grabs my face between her hands, placing wet kisses on my cheeks. “Come . . . have a seat,” she placed me in a seat next to Carmina. “Lets get some food into you. You’re much to skinny,” she gushes over me. She motioned to Alfonso, who quickly places a large plate of pasta in front of me, complete with a large basket of bread.

“Trust me mama, Max’s body is very much endowed,” Isabel smiles from behind her wine glass.

“Bella Rinaldo!” their mother scowls and I know my face is aflame as all eyes fall upon me once again.

“I was just saying,” she winks at me before digging into her dish. I follow everyone’s lead as they all resume eating their dinner. I spent the majority of the dinner answering questions Mama Rinaldo and Aunt Angelina threw at me. Kyle would even join in the conversation every now and then. That was, when he was stuffing his face. I’m not ignorant to the heated glares Sean keeps tossing my way. I figure Brown-nose doesn’t like all the attention I’m getting from his boss.

“...I swear, you’re a riot Maria,” Alfonso’s deep laughter sounded from behind the curtain. A few minutes later, we all look up when he strolled through the curtain, Maria latched to his arm as she bats her long lashes up at him.

“I swear, the woman had to be more than three hundred pounds and she expected me to be able to fit her into a size seven dress . . . I told her I’m a seamstress, not a magician . . . ” she cracks up laughing and I can’t help but smile at her contagious smile.

“Hello people,” she beams, placing her hands on her small hips. “I see you’ve started without me,” she pouts, kissing Mama Rinaldo on the cheek before taking a seat next to Kyle.

“Well if you would have been here on time, we wouldn’t have had to start without you,” Kyle grumbles, filling his plate with yet another helping of food.

“You are such a pig,” she growls and I watch on in amusement as they proceed to trade insults.

“Are they always like this?” I lean over and ask Carmina.

“Only when they are awake,” she answers with a giggle before quickly lowering her head.

“Max, you’ll have to forgive my brother,” she gestures to Kyle, who looks like he’s having trouble breathing with so much food in his mouth. “You’d think he was raised in a barn by the way he eats,” she glares at him and he flips her off.

“I’m pretty sure Max doesn’t want to be privilege to you guys sibling rival,” Slim glares at both of them and they both mumble under their breaths before turning back to their dinner. Dinner once again resumes and I have the privilege of getting to know Maria a little better.

“I’m so sorry I’m late,” a small voice says from behind me, and I turn only to nearly choke on the piece of pasta at the small figure standing in the doorway. I can’t believe it. It’s her, the brunette from the club. I take an appreciatory look over her body and damn near fall out of my seat. Her hair was flowing freely around her shoulders in soft ringlets. She’s dressed in a simple white sundress that rested just above her knees. White flip flops with daisies planted on the top of them covered her feet. Her small, delicate ankle was decorated with a platinum chain. I finally pull my eyes from her shapely figure and see her watching me with an unreadable expression.

“Nonsense Elizabeth, I’m just glad you made it,” Slim stands, holding his hand out to her. “C’mere, I want you to meet someone,” he wraps an arm around her small waist, pulling her firmly against him. I stand quickly when they make their way to me.

“Elizabeth, this is Max . . . Max, this is my girl Elizabeth,” he introduces us. See, right then and there my brain was telling me to run. Run away and run fast, but of course I quickly locked that annoying little voice in a box and tossed it far away in the back of my head as she holds out her hand to me.

“It’s very nice to met you,” the moment I heard her silky voice, I knew... I’d just walked into the Devil’s Den.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 4

I shiver as her small hand wraps around mine and I pray that she doesn’t notice. Taking from the small smirk on her face . . . she notices. “It’s nice to meet you too, Elizabeth,” I somehow manage.

“Liz. Call me Liz,” she smiled, pulling her hand away, but not before giving mine a tight squeeze. I watch as Slim sits her in the seat beside him, which consequently happens to be right next to me. How the hell am I supposed to get through dinner with the woman that has been haunting my dreams for the past few nights beside me?

“So how was your class tonight Elisabetta?” Mama Rinaldo asks her once everyone’s turning back to their dinner.

“It was lovely, thank you,” she answers and I can’t help but think how beautiful her voice sounds. I wonder what it would sound like calling my name. An image of her withering beneath me flashes through my mind and I groan . . . instant hard on.

“Are you okay?” she ask me and I feel my ears burn as I realize that I’d actually groaned out loud. Everyone is staring at me and at this very moment I wish the ground would open up and swallow me whole.

“Yeah,” I curse my voice for sounding like some pimple faced kid just entering puberty. “I’m fine. I just bit my tongue.” I answer more smoothly. “So, you’re a teacher?” I ask her, hoping to pull some of the attention away from me.

“Our Lizzie here teaches ballet at the community center on the west side, and she’s the best,” Maria beams proudly.

“Maria,” she admonished softly. I watch in silent amusement as she blushes and ducks her head. Man, she’s beautiful when she blushes.

“What?” she smiles innocently, “It’s the truth. You’re the best girl. I don’t know why you don’t see it.”

“I would have to agree, Liz. That last recital you put on had me in tears,” Isabel sighed. All the women at the table nodded their heads in agreement.

“Man, are we going to have to sit here and listen to this girly crap all night?” Kyle groaned, his face twisting in disgust.

“Shut up moron,” Maria hissed, sending her elbow into his chest. “That’s what’s wrong with you now. You don’t have any sense of culture,” she growled.

“Culture? What’s so cultured about a bunch of people running around in tights and tutu’s?” Sean joined in. Before long, I find myself caught in the middle of a heated argument.

“Alright, that’s enough,” Slim finally breaks in annoyed, silencing everyone at the table. “We’re all in agreement, Elizabeth is an excellent dancer,” he pointed out. “I just wished you’d let go of this little hobby of yours and settle down,” he says in belittlement as he takes a bit of his Cappuccino Cheesecake. My eyes ricocheted to Liz and I see her jaws throbbing as she grinds her teeth.

“I happen to like my ‘hobby’ very much thank you,” she retorts sharply. I see her hand clutch around her fork so tightly, her knuckles are starting to turn white. I also notice how everyone looks between the two of them as if waiting for some major bomb to drop. Something tells me this is an old argument. “You don’t see me telling you how to live your life . . . so don’t tell me how to live mine,” she continued, barely containing her anger. Damn, she’s sexy as hell when she’s pissed. Hell, who I’m I kidding, she’s just plain sexy.

“Don’t go getting your panties in a bunch, Elizabeth.” He strokes her hand beneath his, and I feel a wave of extreme jealousy washes over me. I know I shouldn’t even care and I definitely shouldn’t be having these feelings for someone else’s girl. But there’s something about her that has gotten under skin, and we’ve barely spoken but a handful of words to each other. “I just don’t like the thought of you being down there so late. God only knows what those hoodlums are capable of,” he stated dryly.

“Like you’re the one to talk,” Isabel snorted, “hate to tell you big bro, but you’re no saint,” she pointed out.

“Shut up Bella,” he growled before turning his attention back to Liz.

“I just worry about you Elizabeth,” his tone softens, and I feel that green eyes monster breathing down my neck as I watch him caress her cheek tenderly. I look away, suddenly feeling sick.

“You don’t have to worry about me Stefano. Those hoodlums as you call them are not capable of harming anyone,” she corrects him. They share a long stare that spoke volumes, and I find myself wondering, how did Liz get mixed up with someone like Slim.

~~~~~~~~~~~

“...it was nice meeting you Mama Rinaldo,” I place a light kiss on her cheek as I prepare to leave for the night.

“Oh Maxwell . . . it was very pleasant to meet you as well,” she grins widely, pinching my cheek before bring my face down to kiss both of my cheeks. I straighten, feeling my face redden as Maria, Carmina and Isabel snicker beside me.

“So Max,” Maria purrs as she latches onto my arm. “I’m throwing a pool party tomorrow. You will be there right?” she ask silkily, raising her a perfectly arched eyebrow at me.

“You must come,” Isabel pipes in, latching onto my other arm. “It’s going to be a blast and tons of food,” she coerces. They’re both running their hands over my chest, and I can’t help but feel like Big Willie. I look up to see Liz watching me, and for some reason I feel shame for allowing them to hang all over me.

“So, will you come,” Maria bats her green eyes at me and pouts. I smile, seeing why she always gets her way. She’s persistent. Before I could even accept or decline the invitation, Slim comes up behind me and slaps me on the back.

“Of course he will be there.” Well I be damn, didn’t know I’d lost the ability to speak. I give him a sidewards glance, and decide to bite back the sarcastic response that was eager to rush past my lips. “There’s some things I want to talk to you about Max,” he lights a cigar. “But they can wait till tomorrow, be there at my place at seven sharp,” he puffs before walking away and joining Sean and Kyle in the corner. Out the corner of my eye, I see Liz standing with Carmina staring at him with sadness. I feel my heart ache at the look on her face and I send an evil glare at Slim for putting that look on her face.

“I guess that means you’ll be there,” Isabel states.

“I guess so,” I relent. I was supposed to watch the game with Michael tomorrow, but I guess I’ll have to scratch that. Maria grins widely and I can’t help but smile back.

“Great, I’ll see you tomorrow, Max . . . make sure to wear something that will show off that beautiful body of yours,” she winks, landing a loud kiss on my cheek and pinching my ass. I watch her giggling form walk away, leaving me stunned and crimson. She stops to say something to Liz before saying her goodnights and making a superstar exit.

“She’s really lively, huh?” I turn to Carmina who’s standing beside me as I wait on Isabel to finish talking to Mama Rinaldo.

“Maria’s, Maria,” she smiles, finally looking me in the eyes for the first time all evening. I manage to get her to engage in a small conversation. Okay, I did most of the talking, but at least she looked at me without ducking her head shyly.

“You ready to go?” Isabel finally returns.

“Sure,” I say goodbye to Carmina and follow Isabel out the back room. We didn’t make it far before she was stopping to flirt with Alfonso.

“It was nice meeting you, Max,” I suddenly hear behind me, and I turn around to see Liz standing before me. She’s wearing a mischievous smile on her face. My eyes give her a once over before meeting hers once again.

“It was nice meeting you too,” I reply coolly.

“So will you be joining us tomorrow for Maria’s party?” she asks, and if I’m not mistaking I hear a trace of hopefulness in her voice. How could I dash her hope?

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” I return.

“Good, maybe I’ll get a chance to see what all the talk’s about.” Did she just check me out? She did. She was checking me out. My stomach does a little flip flop as her eyes rake over me. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow,” she bits her bottom lip and I have to coach my body not to react at the sensual move.

“Definitely.”

“Night Max.” She walks past me, her body brushing casually against mine. I turn to see her go and stand next to Slim who wraps his arm around her waist, pulling her close. He places a kiss on her temple, and I notice how although she’s in his arms, her eyes remain locked on mine.

“Lord, give me strength,” I pray Heavenward, because I know I’m going to need it."

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 5

When I arrive at the house the following evening, the party was already in full swing. There were half naked women running around squealing as they tried to escape the sprays of the water guns. I survey the scene and I see Kyle lounging by the pool, a barely covered blonde perched upon his lap. He whispered something in her ear, and her face lights up and the two of them were racing past me into the house. I continue roaming the crowd, and my eyes lock with Sean’s. He’s giving me the death glare, and I can’t help but send him a condescending smirk. I watch as his face flushes in anger and my smile widens.

“Max, great, you made it,” Isabel smiles as she comes up beside me. She’s dressed in a red two piece swimsuit that showed off all her toned assets. I can’t help it as my eyes wonder over her body. Hey, what can I say? I am a red-blooded male. Apparently she’s unaware of my wondering eyes because she goes on to tell me to help myself to the food and where I can change into my swimming trunks.

“Hey, where’s Maria?” I ask her before she could run off to converse with the other party goers.

“She and Liz went to go get some more ice. They should be back soon.” She smiles before leaving me standing there feeling awkward and out of place.

“Hi Max,” I look down to see Carmina smiling up at me.

“Hey Carmina,” I smile back. “This is some party, huh?” She nods as we fold down in some vacant lounge chairs behind us. “So, why aren’t you swimming?” I nod toward the pool where several of the kids were playing Marco-Polo. She ducks her head, and whispers ‘I can’t swim.’ I raise a surprised eyebrow at her and she looks at me as if expecting me to tease her or something. “I guess that could put a damper on things,” I smile. She shakes her head in agreement before her eyes travel back to the pool longingly.

“Want me to teach you?”

“No!” she answered quickly…frighteningly.

“Really? Because I’m a great teacher and I wouldn’t let anything happen to you,” I probe gently. I watch her look hesitantly from the pool back to me. After several long minutes, she lets out a soft ‘okay.’ “Great, let me go change and we’ll get started.” I jump up and go into the changing room.

“Don’t let go, Max, “ she demands once we’re in the pool. Her arms are clutched around my neck in a death grip.

“I won’t.” I vow as I begin to float on my back toward the middle of the pool. She refuses to let go of my neck and we struggle momentarily. “Carmina,” I speak gently to get her attention. “You have to let go of my neck or this won’t work,” I chuckle softly.

“I’m scared,” she admits.

“I won’t let anything happen to you. Trust me.” She slowly releases her grip, and stares up at me with trusting eyes.

“That’s it . . . kick your feet,” I instruct an hour later as she swims past me.

“Did you see me, Max? I did it,” she beams proudly, wrapping her arms happily around me.

“I sure did. You’re a natural kid,” I grin. “You’re a great teacher Max. Thank you,” she places a kiss on my wet cheek before swimming off to join the other kids.

“Wow! You must be really amazing if you were able to get her in the water,” I hear above me and I turn to see an amazing pair of legs before me. My eyes travel the incline, stopping to admire the shapely hips wrapped in a see-thru sarong. I gulp thickly as I continue my exploration and I’m treated with a trim stomach that is decorated with a silver naval ring. Despite the cold water I’m currently submerged in, I feel my body harden in responds as my eyes land on two perfectly shaped globes that are threatening to overflow from the small strip of material that I assume was a bikini top.

“Like what you see?” My eyes snap to hers and I blush when I realize I was caught. Before I can reply, she squats down so that I have a perfect view of her beautiful cleavage.

“I’ll let you in on a little secret,” her eyes look around cautiously before hungrily sweeping over my wet form. “I definitely like what I see.” She winks before sliding her shades back on and standing before walking away, leaving me standing there shocked and completely aroused. I watch as she goes over and sets her things by one of the lounge chairs. As if knowing my eyes are trained on her every move, she slowly removed her sarong, letting it fall to her feet. I go into a hypnotizing daze as she bends over to pick it up and I growl as my eyes take in her heart-shaped ass. She straightens and turns toward me, offering me a sly smile before folding down onto the lounge to bask in the evening sun.

Loud splashing around me broke through my cloudy haze and I realize two things. One, I’m openly staring at Slim’s girl. Two, I’m hard as a rock. I sank beneath the water hoping to cool off my raging hormones. When that didn’t work, I feverishly swam laps around the pool. I try not to think of her tan body laying beside the pool, teasingly, invitingly. Try not to think about the way her eyes had scraped over me, leaving a burning trail. I must have done close to a hundred laps before I’m confident enough to leave the pool. A couple of ladies beside me make appreciating comments as I try off, but I don’t pay any attention as my eyes are drawn to Liz and Slim.

He’s sitting beside her on the lounger and at the moment leaning very close to her. I twist the towel so tightly in my hands, it’s a wonder it doesn’t snap when his hand slid up her slender thigh, resting on her hip. I stand there, jealousy racing through my body as she giggles at something he says before leaning over and placing a kiss on his lips. I try to tell myself that it’s his right that she’s his girl, but anger consumes me as I watch the two of them interact. I mean, one minute she’s flirting shamelessly with me and the next she’s grinning big in his face. Of course my male pride is scorched and everyone knows that when a man’s pride is hurt, he does stupid things. I turn to the two ladies that were eyeing me earlier and offer them a sly smile. Just as expected, they’re all over me a few minutes later.

“So, Max, why haven’t we seen you around before,” the short red head asks me as she trails a French tip nail down my chest.

“Yeah, I can’t believe that a fine specimen like you hasn’t been snatched up,” the busty blonde smiles up at me as she rubs her body seductively against mine.

“I must say ladies,” I began in my huskiest voice. “If I had known that such beautiful ladies as yourselves were here, I would have been here a lot sooner,” I winked, causing them to giggle like some lovesick school girls. One of them hands me a beer, and I stand there listening as they continued to flirt and brush up against me. After awhile, they excuse themselves to go freshen up, and I find myself sitting alone, nursing a warm beer. I take a chance and look across the pool and see the lounge chair empty. I don’t get much time to ponder where she has disappeared to because at that moment Maria flops down beside me.

“Hey Max, having a good time?” she asks, making no attempt to hide the fact that she is checking me out.

“Yeah.” I return with an arched eyebrow. She winks at me and begins to tell me about the day from hell she had. I like Maria. She’s spunky, entertaining and just plain fun to be around. I think she and Michael would get along great and I tell her so.

“I’m not on the market Max,” she informs me with a small laugh. “Besides, if I hook up with your friend, I won’t be able to have my way with you,” she grins and I laugh at her straightforwardness. We sit there and talk for a while, and she somehow managed to coax me back into the pool, where we played water volleyball with some of the other guest.

“Shitboy.” I look up from where I’m currently towel drying my hair to see Brown-nose standing a few feet in front of me.

“What the hell do you want?” I glare as I finish drying off.

“Slim’s looking for you.” I can hear the disdain in his voice directed at me, but instead of dignifying him with a smart response, I gather up my things and head into the house to change. I don’t have time to deal with Sean and his insecurities. I know that he doesn’t like all the attention his boss has been giving me, and fears I’m going to take his spot as Slim’s right-hand man. Well, maybe he does have something to worry about.

A few minutes later, I’m dressed once again in a pair of grey slacks and a silk black button down. My hair is still damp, but I managed to slick it back. Walking into the foyer, I go down the hall toward Slim’s office. I knock on the door and hear him tell me to come in. When I enter, I see Sean has made his way into the room. He was sitting in a chair across from Slim. Kyle sitting next to him.

“You wanted to see me?”

“Max, have a seat.” He motions to a chair beside him as he lights up one of his cigars. I slowly take a seat, keeping a sharp eye on the three of them. Hey, my mom didn’t raise a fool.

“What’s up?” I ask, raising an eyebrow at him. I decline his offer for a cigar, and watch as he stands up. We all watch as he goes and fiddles around with something on his desk before turning his attention back to us.

“I’m going out of town in a couple of days and I’ll be gone for two weeks,” he informs us. “Kyle, you’ll be going with me. Sean, I’m going to need you to look after things here.” A smug smirk dances across Sean’s face at this tidbit of information only to fall with Slim’s next words.

“Max here will be your backup.” The corner of my mouth lifts in a taunting grin. I can practically see the steam escaping from his ears as he leans back, crossing his arms across his chest and pouts.

“I trust the two of you can get along without killing each other.” Slim stares between the two of us.

“Hey, don’t look at me, I’m not the one feeling threatened,” I provoke purposely. What can I say? I like fucking with him.

“No one’s threatened by you Shitboy,” he growls.

“Then why is that vein in your neck about to bust?” Kyle laughs.

“Fuck you Kyle,” he bits, surging to his feet. “I don’t need backup . . . especially from him,” he says turning to Slim. “I can handle things perfectly fine without him.”

“You act as if I’m eager to work with you Brown-nose. But obviously you need someone to make sure you don’t screw up things. That’s what I’m here for,” I smile cockily.

“You know what? How about I just kick your ass?” He’s standing in front of me now, and I see the vein Kyle mentioned earlier throbbing furiously.

“If you think you can . . . ” I leave the sentence hanging as I stare at him challengingly.

“I got a hundred bucks that says Max will wipe the floor with you,” Kyle agitates as he reaches into his wallet and pulls out a crisp c-note. He stands to the side eagerly, waiting on us to start throwing blows.

“Kyle,” Slim warns, and he stuffs the money back into his wallet, but not before grumbling about never getting to have fun. “No one’s going to be whipping anyone’s ass . . . not in my house at least. If the two of you want to whip it out and see who’s bigger, do it elsewhere. Sean, you will be working with Max and that’s the end of that conversation,” he lays out. “Now, everyone sit down and shut up, there’s some things I want to go over.” So for the next hour or so, he goes on to explain what he expects from us before kicking us out his office.

“Max, hang back for a minute. I need to talk to you,” he calls as we all began to make our way out. I pause in my steps and so does Sean as he stares between Slim and myself in suspicious. Slim gives him a look that clearly says get lost and he leaves the room, shutting the door firmly behind him.

“You want a drink, Max?” he asks, walking over to the small bar in his office.

“Sure,” I shrug. I watch as he pours us a drink before handing mine to me. When I bring the glass to my lips, I notice him watching me.

“What?” I ask, feeling a little unsettled by his stare.

“Max, you seem like a trustworthy man,” he begins. “And I want to trust you, Max.”

“You can trust me, Slim,” I assure him. I don’t know where the hell this conversation is leading, so I play it cool.

“That’s good to hear,” he nods. “I’m going to get straight to the point. Elizabeth will be staying here when I leave, and I want you to watch after her.

“Watch her?” I asked confusingly. Why the hell would she need someone to watch her? He sits down with a heavy sigh, rubbing the bridge of his nose.

“There’s some shit going on that she doesn’t know about. In fact no one knows but Kyle and myself. Although I trust Sean, he’s my childhood friend, lately there’s something going on with him that I can’t put my finger on.” I can see the slight frustration on his face before he quickly masks it. “Anyways, I’ll just feel a little more comfortable if I knew she’s being watched over.” Just then there was a knock on the door before Liz stepped through.

“Elizabeth, what can I do for you love?” He stood up, wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her firmly against him. I look away, not wanting to see the way he touched her. “You look gorgeous,” he spoke in awe, and I had to agree. She was dressed in a simple black dress with spaghetti straps that rested just above her knees. She wore black stack sandals that added height to her otherwise short statue. Her hair was slicked back away from her face and flowed freely down her back. She was indeed gorgeous.

“I’m going out with Maria and Isabel to Manny’s. I just wanted to let you know I was leaving,” she whispered softly.

“Okay Love. Promise me you won’t let the two of them talk you into doing something crazy like last time,” he warned.

“Stefano, please, we were just having a little fun.” I could hear the irritation in her voice and I look up to see the two of them having a silent battle with their eyes.

“Okay, okay,” he finally relents, placing a tender kiss to her temple. “Have fun . . . just be careful. You know how Bella and Ria are once they’ve had too much to drink.”

“I will. Good night,” she smiles up at him before turning toward me. “Night Max.” And then she was gone, both of us watching her retreating form. I revert my eyes when he turns back toward me. Couldn’t let him know that I was checking out his girl, now could I?

“Does she know?” I nod toward the door she just exited.

“No, and she’s not going to be happy about it when she finds out.” He actually groans when he says this and I raise a questioning eyebrow. “Elizabeth is a stubborn woman,” he goes on to explain. “She doesn’t like it when people try to run her life for her, but I’m not trying to run her live, I’m trying to keep her safe. Of course she won’t see it that way, and she’ll probably raise hell about it,” he admits with a shrug. “But as long as she’s safe, she can be pissed all she wants.” Walking over to his desk, he pulls out a envelop and slides it across the desk toward me.

“What’s that?” I ask, eyeing the envelope.

“That’s your pay. I’m leaving the keys to the Rolls and my credit card. I want you to make sure Elizabeth’s happy. Take her shopping or whatever she wants, but you are to never, ever touch her.” He reaches once again into his desk, this time he pulls out a gun and sets it on the desk. I step back instantly. “Don’t fuck me on this Evans. I love Elizabeth with every bone in my body,” he warns.

“Don’t worry Slim. You can trust me.” The big question is though...can I trust myself?

[Lady Scorpio]

Chapter 6

"You do know you’re playing with fire, right?" I heard beside me and turn to see Michael standing there raising a knowing eyebrow at me. He hands me a beer, and I accept it as I turn my eyes back to the dance floor, ignoring his question. I watch Maria and Isabel as they captured the attention of every guy in the club as they dance seductively with each other. I smirk as I watch the way Michael is practically salivating as he watches the sway of Maria’s hips. I chuckle as she runs her hands over her bare midriff, across her breast before she lifts her long blonde locks through her fingers. She’s eyeing him with that ‘come fuck me look’ and I laugh as he drops his beer, sending it scattering to the ground. The two of them have been playing mind games with each other every since I officially introduced them at one of Maria’s parties last month. Of course they had seen each other from Manny’s, but hadn’t actually said more then a handful of words to each other. You could practically see the sexual heat building between them.

“Shit,” he grumbles as he fishes for something to clean up the mess he has made. As he busy himself with that, I turn my attention back to the dance floor. Even though Maria and Isabel have managed to capture the attention of most of the guys in the room, my attention is solely focused on the small brunette dancing a few feet away from them.

As predicted, Liz hadn’t been happy about the fact that Slim had basically left me as her babysitter while he went on his trip. There had been heated words between them while I stood there awkwardly. She would occasionally throw a smart remark my way and of course I would come back with my own smart reply which would leave her fuming.

“Alright that’s enough!” Slim had demanded, and we stood there staring hotly at each other. “Elizabeth, I know you don’t like this…but it would make me feel better if I knew you were being watched after,” he had tried to reason with her.

“I don’t need a babysitter, Stefano. I’m a grown woman and I can take care of myself.” She crossed her arms over her chest defiantly as she looked between the two of us. The corners of my lips rise slightly at how sexy she looks when she’s angry.

“Like it or not, Max will be looking after you in my absence.” His words left no room for argument as he turned and prepared himself a drink. I watch Liz as she glares hard at his back before stomping her foot and walking out of the room with a huff.

That was six months ago. Since then, Slim had been on four ‘business’ trips. The first night he had left, she had managed to give me the slip as she, Maria and Isabel had gone to Albuquerque on a shopping spree. After that day, I was always one step ahead of her, something she didn’t take to kind to. After awhile, she’d stopped being angry and became the flirty temptress once again.

Like now, she’s currently dancing with some loser who has his front plastered against her back as his hands run over her trim stomach. I try not to let her actions faze me, but god dammit, she is like a drug. I take a long swig of my beer as I tried not to let the jealousy that is hovering below the surface consume me. Her eyes are trained on mine. My nostrils flare and I feel my eyes lower half mast as she continues to grind against him, taunting me. I barely register Michael as he calls my name. It takes his thumping of my ear to get my attention.

“What?!” I snap, pulling my eyes away from Liz. I turn to see him shaking his head at me.

“I’m telling you Max, don’t even thing about it,” he warns. I try to brush him off, but he wasn’t having it. “Max, she’s Slam’s girl…you know your boss…the guy that can make you disappear without a second glance,” he reminds me. I know he’s right, and trust me; it’s taking every ounce of strength in my body to resist what she’s so willing to give me. Just when I’m about to respond, I feel my cell phone vibrate in my pocket. Pulling it out, I see that it’s none other then Slim himself. Throwing a quick glance toward Liz, I move into the men’s room so that I can hear over the loud music.

“What ‘sup?” I answer as I flip open my phone. I glare at a couple of guys as they turn to regard me.

“Evans.” He’s coming in choppy and I have to cover my other ear to hear him better. “I was just…I won’t…another week.” I managed to make out what he was saying. His short trip was now turning into close to a month this time. “How is Elizabeth?” he asks.

“She’s good.” What exactly was I suppose to say? That she’s flirting with me none stop and that I want to have my way with her over and over again. I clear my throat at the thought.

“She’s not…trouble?” I hear him chuckle on the other end.

“Nah, everything’s all good,” I assure him.

“Good…good. Tell…to expect my call…morning.”The connection is coming in worse and he quickly gives me a message for Sean before disconnecting. I flip my phone shut and stare at it. Over the last couple of months, Slim has taken me under his wings, showed me the ropes. There was something going on between him and Sean and he had told me that he just felt more comfortable with me handling things. So that was how it was. I started taken over gradually when he and Kyle would leave and now, Sean is my back up man. Of course, he hadn’t been too happy with this and we finally went head to toe a few weeks earlier. Two black eyes and a busted lip later, he finally relented. I know he’s still fuming inside, and I’m always on alert, waiting on the volcano to erupt.

Slipping the phone back into my pocket, I know that the thoughts running through my head about Liz were just that, thoughts. There was no way I could disrespect Slim like that. I mean the guys been nothing but good to me and how do I pay him back? I lust after his girl. Making my way back into the club, I look around. I see Maria and Isabel still in the same spot from earlier, but Liz is nowhere to be seen. I search the club and I finally see her. This time she’s sandwiched between two men, their hands groping and sliding over her toned body.

“Let’s go,” I demand as I snatch her from between them. I know my eyes are blazing with anger. The funny thing is she doesn’t resist to my manhandling. In fact, she comes along willingly.

“Hey,” one of the loser objects, as he and the other guy walks toward me. I push Liz behind me, as I raise myself taller, daring them to make a move. I feel Michael come up beside me. He folds his arm across his chest, making sure to flex his biceps. I watch them eye us momentarily before deciding it was in their best interest not to push their luck. They turn around and start dancing with some other females on the floor.

“Thanks man,” I shout to Michael over the loud music. He nods before he walks over and wraps a surprising arm around Maria’s waist and pulls her firmly against him. I turn my attention back to Liz, and she’s staring up at me with heated eyes.

“So does this mean you’re going to be my dancing partner now?” she ask silkily, as she trails a finger under the flap of my shirt teasingly. I swallow hard, removing her hand and clasping it in my own.

“Come on…I think you’ve had enough for one night,” I tell her, knowing that she’d had a little too much to drink. I began pulling her toward the exit. I see Michael giving me a questioning look, and I motion toward Isabel and Maria. I know he understands and will make sure they got home safety. I once again ignore the other question in his eye as I continue to weave us through the mass of gyrating bodies. We were just a few feet from the exit when a mass of blonde curls attached to my side.

“Maxie Pooh,” Tess purrs and I groan. Did I forget to mention that Tess is still an annoying factor in my life? Well she is, and let me tell you, the girl needs professional help. A few weeks back I had came home to find her naked and in my bed. Don’t ask me how she even found out where I lived. The one and only time I hit it, it had been at her place. But she had somehow found out where I stayed and had let herself into my home and defiled my bed. To say the least, I threw her ass out on the street, uncaring of her whines and pleas.

“Stay the hell away from me Tess,” I had shouted, tossing the remaining of her clothes and my sheets in her face. The next day, I had the locks to my apartment changed and brought me a new mattress set.

“Tess,” I growl, prying her nails out of my forearm. I can tell she’s drunk off her ass. She’s dressed in some sleazy number that I assume she considers sexy. “I thought I told you to stay away from me,” I glare. She doesn’t seem to take heed to my acidity tone as she places her arms around my waist.

“I know you didn’t mean it, Max. Why don’t we go back to my place and I’ll make you feel real good.” She squeezes my ass and I jump in surprise. Before I could say anything, I feel her ripped away from me and Liz’s tiny form standing between us.

“I believe he said back off.” Did she just growl? Damn. I feel myself stir at the erotic sound.

“Who the hell are you?” Tess snaps back, her blue eyes iced over.

“I’m his date, and I don’t appreciate a skank like you pushing up on him,” Liz bites back, and I smirk at the dumbfound look on Tess’ face. “Now if you will excuse me, I will be the only one that will be making Max feel good tonight,” she says suggestively. I feel her tug on my hand and I turn and look over my shoulder and see steam practically blowing out of Tess’ ears.

“So who was she?” Liz asks as we now drive down the deserted streets of Roswell. I glance over and watch her as she reapplies her lip-gloss in the visor mirror before sinking back into the leather seat of the Rolls. She regards me with a small smile playing over her lips. Her very soft, kissable lips. I turn my eyes back toward the road, twisting uncomfortable in my seat.

“Nobody,” I answer stiffly.

“Did you fuck her?” I swerve slightly at her bold words and hear her giggle beside me. I turn and give her a warning look and she only laughs harder.

“Do your students know you talk like that?” I ask her, evading her question.

“That means yes,” she says in a sing song voice. “And I’m not a saint Max,” she replies with a bit of an edge. She turns her head and looks out the window. I nod, and we spend the remainder of the ride in silence.

“Aren’t you going to tuck me in,” she whispers seductively as she stands on the steps of the staircase. She’s playing with the collar of my shirt as she licks her lips and I can’t help my eyes as they follow her pink tongue hypnotically. It takes me a minute to realize that she had managed to undo the top three buttons of my shirt and her tiny hand is caress the exposed skin of my chest.

“Liz,” I gurgle, seizing her hand in a death grip.

“Why do you fight what’s happening between us, Max?”

“Because we can’t,” I croak out. My body is literally shaking with unfilled passion for her. A passion so strong, it begs to be release, to be set free to stow upon her willing form. But I know we can’t, it’s not right. She belongs to someone else.

“But why not?” she presses.

“Because you’re Slim’s girl…and…and it’s just not right.”

“Oh please, Max,” she throws up her hand in aspiration. “You think I don’t know what Stefano does on his so called ‘trips’?” She gives me a pointed look and I look away. I’m not stupid and I don’t pretend not to know what she is talking about. It had been plenty of times Slim has called and I’ve heard women in the background. I even caught him in a compromising position with a red head in the back of Manny’s a couple of days before he left on this last trip. Of course it’s not my place to interfere in their relationship.

“Two wrongs don’t make a right, Liz,” I tell her. It was her time to look away. “I won’t be a pawn in your little game to make Slim jealous, or whatever the hell you’re doing.” Her head snaps forward then, her eyes locking on mine.

“Is that what you think this is?” she asks the hurt in her voice evident.

“Isn’t it?” I raise an eyebrow at her. She moves down a step so that her face is only centimeters from mine, her warm breath dances across my own. Instead of answering, her lips crash into mine hard. I feel her tongue probe my lips and open to her. I nearly faint as her smooth tongue glides across mine. My hands find their way to her hips, but before I can deepen the kiss, she pulls away, leaving me panting heavily and hard as a rock.

“I don’t like games." She licks her lips before brushing her thumb across my lips. "Good night, Max.” I stand there, gripping the banister tightly as I watch her climb the stairs, her hips swaying gently. It takes everything in me not to race up those stairs and take her like a mad man. Instead, I take several deep breathes to calm my body before heading home for a long, cold shower.



~~~~~~~~~~~

So did that part totally suck? Sorry for the long wait, but things are about to get a whole lot...um heated.

Thanks for reading,

LS

[Lady Scorpio]

I wanted to catch this up with my other to stories so they all will be on chapter 8. So those of you reading my other stories, don't worry, new parts are on the way.



Chapter 7

I'm awoken out of my sleep by a light knocking at my front door. I roll over to peak at the alarm clock on my night stand and see that it is three in the morning. Groaning, I roll out of bed, wondering who in the hell could be knocking at my door. I yank it open fully intent on chewing whoever it is another asshole when Chloe's tear-stained face stares up at me.

"Chloe, what are you doing here?" I ask her, looking up and down the hall for Tori. She doesn't say anything, just hands a piece of paper to me. I take it from her and start reading the contents.

Max

Take care of Chloe for me. Don't know when I'll be back.

T.

Well I'll be damn. What the hell I'm I suppose to do with a kid. I mean it was cool when I was looking after her for a few hours, but what the hell I'm I going to do with her. Fucking, Tori. I motion her inside, noticing the way she clutches a tattered backpack in her hand. Grabbing the extra pillow and blanket from the hall closet, she settles down onto the sofa. No sooner had her head hits the pillow, she's fast asleep. I stare down at her, wishing there was something I could do to help her. She doesn’t deserve a mother like Tori. Sighing heavily, I return to my room. It's a good thing tomorrow’s Saturday. Liz usually has classes all day, so it'll be a lazy day. Speaking of Liz, it’s been two weeks since the ‘kiss’ and it’s been all I’ve been able to think about. I can still feel the way her soft lips felt pressed up against mine; the glide of her tongue against my own sent electrical shocks throughout my body, setting it aflame.

Things after that night have definitely changed between us. There’s a sexual energy so strong lying beneath the surface just dying to be release. I haven’t seen her this past week because Slim’s return. He came back baring gifts and apologizes for his delay. Of course, he left again last night. I’ve taken this last week off, to think, analyze you may say, and I've come to the decision that once Slim returns from this trip, I'm going to let him know I can't work for him anymore. I know it's a drastic decision, but the thing is, after that kiss...I don't know how much longer I'll be able to fight this hunger inside me; hunger that I know can only be satisfied by a certain brunette. Falling back against the mattress, I fall into a restless sleep.

Later that morning, Chloe and I pull up to the West Roswell Community Center. I figure since it was an easy day, it wouldn't hurt to have her come with me until I can figure out what I'm going to do with her.

"What do you say we go watch some ballet?" I smile over at her, and she nods her head softly. I haven't actually seen Liz perform before. The few times that I've been here, she made me wait outside in the hall. Something about me disrupting her class. When we walk into the large studio, there are several little girls stretching or jumping through the air. I see Liz standing in the far corner talking to a couple of girls. She's dressed in a pink leotard with a white tutu. Her feet are bare and her hair is up in a ponytail high upon her head. She looks simply beautiful. As if sensing my presence, she turns and our eyes lock. I see something flash in her eyes before she lowers her eyes to Chloe who is currently clutching my hand in a death grip. She raises a questioning eyebrow at me before turning back to the girls. She says something that causes them all to giggle before walking over to us.

"Hi," she smiles at me. God, I've missed that smile.

"Hey," I return back. We stand there staring at each other until I realize what we are doing and I quickly look away. "This is Chloe," I introduce. She nods before turning her attention to Chloe.

"Hi Chloe, I'm Liz," she smiles brightly and I feel Chloe's hand grow tighter.

"She's a little shy," I defend when Chloe doesn't say anything, instead she cowards behind me even more.

"That's okay," Liz smiles.

"Chloe's a friend of mine. I was wondering if we could sit and watch if you don't mind."

"I don't mind. In fact, Chloe, how would you like to join in on the class today?" Chloe looks up at me tentatively, and I give her an encouraging smile.

"Okay."

"Great. Come on, I'm pretty sure I have some extra leotards and shoes in the back." I watch her lead her toward the back.

"Hi Max." I turn around to see Carmina smiling at me. Over the last six months she and I have became good friends. She's still a little shy, but she's opening up a lot more then she use to.

"Hey yourself." I wink and watch as she blushes and ducks her head. We converse for a little, and since she hasn't seen me in a week, she actually has a lot to say. A few minutes later, Liz returns with Chloe at her side and tells everyone to get into first position. Whatever the hell that is. I take a seat in a chair near the door and for the next hour I watch Liz as she goes through several routines. I notice how she takes extra time to show Chloe exactly what to do and makes sure she feels comfortable.

"No! No! No!" Liz’s frustrated voice echoes around the studio. I watch as she blows an erratic strand of hair out of her face before stepping over and stopping the CD. "This is not working people," she frowned. She was now well into her fourth class of the day and I can see that she's tired and a little on edge. Isabel had arrived after her first class to pick up Carmina and after explaining the situation with Chloe, she offered to take her shopping with her and Carmina and then their going to have a sleep over.

"The recital is in three weeks, and the way you guys are dancing, you act like we have months," she snapped. "Tracy...Nick, I'm not feeling it between you two," she tells her two lead dancers. "You either get your act together or we can just forget about the whole show," she says hotly, and I watch as Tracy and Nick lower their heads. She proceeds to show them what she expects from them and when they still fail to meet her expectations, she lets out a loud, frustrated growl.

"Max!" I snap my head up to see her coming towards me, a look of determination on her face. "I need your help," she says, stopping to stand in front of me.

"No way!" I say a few minutes later when she tells me what she wants and hands me a pair of black leotards.

"Max, come on. You can't help me in that." She points to my outfit.

"There's no way I'm putting on that thing Liz...sorry. No way, no how," I shake my head adamantly as I cross my arms over my chest. What the hell is that? She's looking up at me with those big doe eyes and biting her bottom lip. Damn.

I squirm as the women in the class stare at me like I'm their next meal and the guys send me dirty looks. I glare right back. I look at myself in the mirror and can't believe I actually let her talk me into wearing this damn thing. I look ridiculous. I don't even know what the hell I'm supposed to do. Except for the little instructions she gave right before we came back out, I'm clueless. As if reading my mind, she turns and smiles up at me.

"Don't worry, I'll do all the work," she winks. I nod nervously. The music ques up and I stand there as Liz begins to move gracefully with the music. She moves like she's dancing on air, her feet never seem to touch the ground. She goes through leaps and bounds as the music flows through the speakers. She moves into some combination move before doing a number of elegant spins, her hair falling out of its ponytail. She holds out her hand to me and I capture her small, delicate hand in my much larger, rougher one. Do not ask me how I knew what to do, but the moment her hand touched my, everyone else in the room disappeared and it was just the two of us, moving to the music. The floor beneath me vibrates as the heavy heartbeat pounds through the speakers.

Her back is flush against my front and I fight the urges of my body’s response. She wraps her arms around my neck; her fingers reckon havoc on my nape. As I slide my hands down her arms, I marvel over how soft her skin fells beneath my fingertips. Further my hands travel down her body; brushing lightly over the sides of her breast. I watch through hooded
eyes as she leans her head against my shoulder; her mouth parting slightly as a small sigh escapes her lips. My hands finally reach their destination and fall upon her hips. Effortlessly, I lift her into the air. Her legs wraps around my back as she slithers around my body as if I was a dancing pole. I reach for her hands, pulling her up from the floor. Her eyes lock with mine as I dip her slowly. My eyes are glued to her breast as they thrust forward; her nipples straining against the fabric of the leotard. As if magnetic, her body pulls flush against mine as her arms find their way around my neck once again. Our chest rise and falls against each other as our foreheads rest together. I stroke her back gently as my fingers inch up her exposed back, burying in her silky tress. Her heavy pants brush across my face as she stares up at me with those eyes; eyes that speak volumes. It takes us a minute to realize that the music has stopped. Someone coughs, breaking the sexual haze we were under. I step back, noticing the flush that rises up her cheeks and I’m pretty sure it matches my own. I look around and notice all the curious faces watching us. Liz notices too, and manages to casually resume class, while I try to hide the evidence of my arousal.

~~~~~~~~~

“Dude, what’s up with you?” Michael asks as he rubs his bruised side. After I made sure Liz got home safely, I called him up, needing to release some serious tension.

“Nothing,” I puff out, slamming the ball into his chest. I ignore the look he gives me as he just stands there dribbling the ball.

“Are you going to play or what?” I snap. He doesn’t say anything, just continues to watch me.

“She’s getting to you isn’t she?”

“No,” I lie as I snatch the ball from his hands and drive to the hole.

“Bullshit! We’ve played four games already and I’m tired as hell. So what ‘sup?” I knew Michael wouldn’t let it go. Grabbing a towel, I dry off the dripping sweat from my brow. I accept the bottle of water he hands me and down it in two long swallows. When I see that he’s still waiting on me to talk, I finally relent and tell him everything. About the kiss, everything, and when I’m done, I’m worked up and frustrated once again.

“Max, that girl has got you all twisted up inside…I’m telling you, it’s dangerous,” he advises as he shoots a three point jumper.

“I know.” I jump up for the rebound. “That’s why I’m going to step back…tell Slim I can’t work for him anymore,” I tell him as he tries to block my shot.

“Good, because I was beginning to wonder if you were going to let your dick get you killed,” he chuckles, and I tossed the ball at his head.

“So what ‘sup with you and Maria?” I ask him, not wanting to think about Liz at the moment. I watch a huge smile spread across his face as he gives me a knowing look.

~~~~~~~

Sighing heavily, I collapse onto my bed. After playing two more intense games, Michael and I decided to call it quits. I dropped him back off at his apartment so he could get ready for work. I drove around for a few hours, trying to get my head straight, but it was useless. I’m still confused and can’t get Liz off my mind. I can’t forget the way she felt in my arms; the way I wanted to take her right then and there, damn who was around.

“Shit,” I mumble, noticing my body’s reaction. Bringing my hand from were it rested beneath my head, I slide it across my stomach. Might as well take matters into my own hands. I reach for the towel wrapped around my waist, but before I can slip them off, there’s a knock at my front door. “Damn it.” I’m almost tempted to let whoever the hell it is keep knocking, but decide against it. The sooner I get rid of them, the sooner I can get back to…er never mind. Slipping on a pair of sweats, I make my way to the door.

Now, if someone would have warned me before hand, I would have never answered the door. Because the moment I did, I knew there was no turning back.

“Liz.”

[Lady Scorpio]

Once again...sorry for the delay.


Chapter 8

"What are you doing here?" I manage to choke out in surprise. I was definitely not expecting to open the door and find her. My eyes run over her form, taking in the short yellow sundress that she's wearing that shows off her shapely legs. On her head is a white scarf and huge Jackie O shades covering her eyes.

"Can I come in?" she asks, pulling my attention back to her face. I nod before stepping aside and letting her in, ignoring that nagging voice in the back of my head warning me that I shouldn't. Closing the door behind her, I lean against it, watching her as she begins to pace the length of my small living room. She seems agitated, so I just wait. When she doesn't say anything, just continues to pace, I finally speak.

"Liz?" She stops and turns toward me. I watch as she removes her shades, and I finally get a good look at her eyes. What I see there makes me swallow thickly and certain body parts jump in excitement. Her pupils are dilated and I can see the hunger in them and I’m quite sure they mirror my own.

"I can't do this anymore," she finally says, taking a step toward me. I raise an eyebrow in question, but don’t say anything. “I couldn’t sleep tonight, and you want to know why Max?” she rushes on before I could answer. “Because I can’t stop thinking about you,” she admits. She takes another step toward me, and the space between us grows shorter. "I've been driving around for the last hour . . . trying to get you out of my head…the next thing I know, I’m knocking on your door,” she whispers softly. She’s standing directly in front of me now and I get a whiff of her perfume. I never thought the scent of strawberries could smell so exotic. She lifts one of her hands and runs it across my bare chest.

“Liz,” I hiss, throwing my head against the door. I close my eyes, trying to fight the strong desire racing madly through my body.

“I’ve tried to stay away, because I know it’s wrong…” her fingernail scrapes across my hard nipple and I inhale sharply. “But you can’t tell me you don’t feel it Max…the energy…the heat…the chemistry.” I nearly jump out of my skin when I feel her lips press a soft kiss upon my left peck.

I lift my head and stare down at her. I can’t deny it. Everything she is saying is true. I feel the energy . . . the heat . . . the electrifying chemistry. She’s staring back at me through hooded eyes and I lose all logical forms of thinking. The next thing I know, my lips are crushed against hers and I'm pulling her firmly against me. I lift off the door as I switch our positions and pin her against it. Her tongue sweeps across my lips demandingly, and I eagerly open up to her assault. Our tongues collide, I lose control as my fingers dig into her hips as her tongue stabs in and out of my mouth. The kiss is a cry difference from the one we shared before.

This one is full of pent up passion, heat, hunger, pure sex. That tiny voice in the back of my head is screaming at me; warning me that this is a very bad idea. But I can't help myself. She feels so good and it feels so right. My hands slide up and down her hips causing her dress to rise up her shapely hips. Unable to resist, I let my hands creep under the soft material. I’m not conscience o the animalistic growl that escapes my throat as my hands come in contact with the hot skin of her ass.

“Max,” she mews, tearing her mouth away from mine as she buries her head against my shoulder. I take the opportunity to trail kisses down her slender neck while my hands continue their curious journey beneath her dress. While my hands slide over the smooth skin of her back, I feel one of her tiny hands slide beneath the waist of my sweatpants and cup my ass.

“Can I take this off?” I whisper breathlessly against her ear as I tug gently on her dress.

“Yes . . . god yes,” she moans. Stepping back, I rip it from her body in one swift move. Before the dress even has a chance to hit the floor, we’re once against plastered against each other, this time our naked chest rubbing sensually together. There’s so much heat radiating between us, I swear we’re going to melt right through the door. My heart is pounding rapidly, and I feel like I’m going to explode if I don’t have her soon. Lifting her small frame in my arms, her legs instantly wrap around my waist as I walk us back to my bedroom. I feel my knees bump up against the bed, and slowly lower us down. Tearing my lips away from hers for some much needed air, I kiss the underside of her jaw before trailing lower. Proceeding my journey down her body, I stop briefly to suck gently on her collarbone, careful not to leave my mark.

“Oh god, Max.” Her hands are buried in my hair, tucking almost painfully, but I fail to notice as I’m greeted with the sight of her perfectly round breast. I don’t waste anytime and suck one of the hardened peaks into my mouth as I use my hand to twist and pluck at the other one. I suck greedily upon her, alternating between each breast, making sure to give them the just amount of attention. Capturing one of the swollen nubs between my teeth as I apply just enough pressure to drive her crazy as I flick my tongue over it torturously. She’s squirming and moaning beneath me, begging me to relieve the ache that is coursing through her body. I feel her hips arch beneath me, and growl when I feel the evidence of her arousal rub against my chest. She is so wet and the tiny strap of material she calls panties is doing nothing to hide the fast as her juices soak right through them.

“Max . . . please . . . I-I need you so bad,” she cries out.

“I know baby . . . I know,” I croak out, feeling the burning desire to be buried deep inside of her. Suddenly I feel her feet enter the waist of my sweats, pushing them down and I quickly wiggle out of them. Now the only thing separating us is her underwear, which I roughly rip from her body. She lets out a surprised yelp but only stares at me with dark eyes. I know what she wants . . . what she needs. So when I drive into her with such force, I see tears form in her eyes as she lets out a cry of relief. I close my eyes at the feel of her warmth surrounding my hard member and can’t believe that I’m finally inside her. I can’t believe I’ve been fighting this for so long. When I finally open my eyes, I stare down at her and I reach out to wipe away a single tear that managed to escape and she offers me a small smile before I feel her roll her hips beneath. Her legs lock around my waist and she whispers my name. There is nothing slow or gentle about our love making. No, it was full of hunger and heat that we had both been denying for so long, but now that it has been released, it was like a volcano erupting to life after years of laying dormant; dangerous, hot . . . explosive.

“Liz . . . shit, damn, you’re so fucking wet and warm,” I hiss as I pull back and slam back into her. Her fingernails are digging into my triceps and I’m for sure she’s drawing blood.

“Max . . . Max . . . I-I need more . . . please . . . ” she pants, tugging on my head and sealing her lips against mine. Her tongue probes my mouth demandingly and I shiver. When she finally releases my mouth, I grab her legs and push them forward. I’m so deep in this position as I thrust into her with alarming force. Her breasts bounce freely from the force and I nearly spill my seed at the sight. But I’ve waited to long to be inside her to lose it so quickly. Thrusting once, twice more, I slide out of her, much to her disappointed cries.

“Max,” she wails as I flip her onto all fours and swiftly take her from behind. She meets each of my powerful thrusts with one of her own as I grip her hips tightly. Her head thrashes about as she calls my name over and over again and I can’t tell you what it’s doing to my ego. I run my hand appreciatively over her back which arches at my touch. Feeling her walls contract around me rapidly, I know that she is close. Wrapping my arm around her waist, I sit back on my legs, taking her with me.

“Oh god Max . . . I’m so close,” she cries as she throws her head back against my shoulder. She wraps her arm around my neck, turning her head to capture my lips.

“Then cum baby,” I mumble against her lips, “Cum for me.” I capture her bottom lip between my teeth, biting gently as my hand find her heated core. I find her little bundle and began to rub it tightly with my thumb. It doesn’t take long and she rips her mouth from mine.

“Maaxx!!” Her scream pierces the air and I know that I’ll have a few complaints in the morning. But damn it, it’s worth it to hear the way she calls out my name. The feel of her walls pulsating around me triggers my own release and I wrap my arms around her waist, crush her against me as I explode inside her.

“Oh god . . . oh god,” is all I can manage at the moment as I bury my face in her hair as I shake uncontrollable. I feel her hands cover mine and she entwines our fingers. We sit there for what seems like forever, the only sound is our heavy breathing as we try to calm our racing hearts.

“You okay?” I hear her ask as she turns to regard me.

“Yeah,” I respond, kissing her shoulder. “But my legs are beginning to protest,” I chuckle slightly, and she whispers a soft ‘sorry’ before untangling herself from my body, but I don’t let her get to far. “Come here,” I tell her as I stretch out on the bed, snuggling my front to her back. “Are you okay?” I ask her, knowing that I had been kind of rough.

“Never better,” she sighs, and I smile, knowing exactly how she feels. I let myself linger in the feeling of having her in my arms, but in the back of my mind, I hear that little voice again telling me that shit just got complicated.

[Lady Scorpio]

I guess i should slap a warning on this

Chapter 9

I’m laying here, my arm wrapped protectively around her small waist. I can’t believe that we just made love. My heart is still pounding rapidly in my chest, and I don’t know if my body will ever come down from the sexual high it’s on, especially the way she keeps wiggling her bottom against my flaccid member. If she keeps it up, it’s not going to stay that way much longer. I grab her hips, stopping her movements and she giggles before scooting back against me so that no air could pass between us.

“You’re such a bad girl Lizzie,” I chuckle, placing tiny kisses at her nape.

“I like that,” she moans softly.

“What? This?” I whisper as I continue placing kisses along her neck, swiping my tongue over her heated skin every now and then. She shivers against me and I can’t help the small grin that graces my lips

“Yeah, that too,” she giggles, “but I meant you calling me Lizzie. I like it,” she groans, arching her bottom more firmly against me.

"Umm," is my only reply as I continue my assault. I can feel her pulse increase beneath my hand where it now rests over her left breast.

"Max," she moans when I give it a gentle squeeze, rolling the erect nipple between my fingers.

"You like that Lizzie?" I whisper huskily against her ear, as I capture her tender lobe between my teeth and bit down gently.

"Yes . . . Max," she pants. I let my free hand travel down her toned stomach, finally letting it rest just above the soft patch of curls that cover her sweet treasure. My fingers play lazily in her curls, ignoring her cries as she arches against my hand, trying to direct it where she wants it. By now, I'm as hard as a rock and I don't know how much longer I can hold off without driving deep into her.

"Max . . . please," she begs, turning her head and covering my lips with her much softer ones.

"Please what?" I coax. "Tell me what you want Lizzie." I tease her a little more, darting my tongue in and out of her mouth.

"Mmm," she sighs against my lips as I allow her to suck my tongue into the deep crevice of her warm mouth. "I want you to touch me," she says when we finally pull apart her warm breath dancing against my lips.

"I am touching you." I smile coyly as I give her breast a small squeeze. Her eyes narrow and I chuckle softly when she practically growls at me.

"I mean . . . " It's my turn to groan and my eyes cross when she captures my hand and guides it between her thighs. "...here," she demands baldly.

"Damn," I hiss when my fingers encounter her wet lips. Eager to feel her warmth, I slid first one then another finger into her succulent heat. "Lizzie . . . Lizzie . . . Lizzie, you're so wet." I close my eyes at the feel of her juice’s coat my fingers. She's rocking her hips against my hand, her whimpers and small cries causing me to swell impossibly tight. She's riding my hand wildly as I place the pad of my thumb over her clit and began to stroke her in slow circles. She opens her legs a little wider to give me better access and I can't take it any longer, I feel like I'm about to explode. Removing my hand from her soaked core, I place it underneath her knee, draping her leg over my hips.

"Liz," I groan when she reaches between her legs and wraps her tiny hand around my throbbing member. "Fuck," I growl, biting down hard on my lip as she guides me inside her and I'm completely surrounded by moist heat.

"Max," she cries as I slowly began to slide in and out of her. There is no need to rush. The urgency and huger from earlier has died down, but still lingers just below the surface. This time I just want to take it nice and slow.

"Oh Max," she coos as I rock into her, hoisting her thigh in my hand for better leverage.

"God you feel so good," I can't help but mumble as I place tiny open-mouthed kisses down her neck. She purrs softly; her walls squeezing me in a vice grip. "You like that, don't you Lizzie?" I don't give her a chance to answer as I snake my hand down to where we are joined and began stroking her hard nub.

"Oh my god, Maaxx!!!" she shrieks shuddering in my arms.

"That's it Lizzie," I grunt, fight the urge to follow her into orgasm. Instead, I slow my pace and wrap my arms around her tightly as she rides out her climax.

"God, that was amazing," she sighs contently, finally finding her voice.

"It's not over yet baby," I reply huskily. She turns, offering me her warm mouth, which I eagerly accept and we share a heated kiss. Somehow our position changes and she’s now laying beneath me without our bodies never disconnecting. Did I forget to mention I love how flexible she is? I stare down at her as I slowly began to slide deep into her tight body once again. I can't get over the sight of her tan body which is a striking contrast against my Champagne sheets. Her hair is fanned across my pillows like a chocolate waterfall and it takes all my strength not to cum at the beautiful sight. Instead, I focus on her, listen to her soft moans and desperate cries, learning her likes and dislikes.

I can tell she likes it when I roll my hips to the left in perfect angle, hitting her sweet spot. I also know that she likes to be held close, which I definitely oblige. She holds me close as she places kisses against my jaw and neck. Her hands are running over my back and shoulders as her feet stroke my hips. I feel her push gently on my shoulder, and I lift my head from the crook of her neck where I see I've left a nice size hickey. I refuse to dwell on it at the moment as I allow her to switch our positions and I'm now laying beneath her as she straddles my hips.

"Mmm," she moans as she slides down over my ridged member. I can't even describe the feeling as she starts to gyrate her hips, using her knees for leverage as she slowly lifts up and I see her juices glisten over my cock. Gripping her hips, I aide her as she continues to ride me with great skill, arching my own hips to met hers.

"Oh yeah," I hiss, loving the way her breast jiggle each time I slam into her. I reach up and cup her soft mounds in my hand, loving the way they fit perfectly as if made just for me.

"Max!" Her back arches into a perfect bow as she wraps her hands around mine, and squeezes. I pluck and flick the stiff peaks between my fingers, watching her mouth as it forms into a small 'O'. Her movements are starting to become erratic, and I her fingernails are digging painfully into my thighs as she leans back, thrusting her breast deep into my palms.

"Lizzie," I mutter when her long locks brush across my thighs, shooting a jolt of electricity throughout my whole body. Seeing the way my shaft disappears between her silky walls and the constant plea of my name across her lips, I know I'm not going to last much longer. Sitting up, I snake my arms around her waist, burying my fingers in her hair as I conceal my mouth over hers for a kiss that make my toes curl and my body shake. My hand travels over her warm back as I kiss her thoroughly.

Our bodies move together expertly as if we have been making love together for years and it doesn't take long before we're both calling out each ours name as our orgasm slams into us.

"Liz . . . "

"Max . . . " we cry together as we hold on to each others shaking form. Exhausted, I fall back, my sweaty form colliding with the cool sheets, never releasing my hold on her. I stroke her back and comb my fingers through her hair as she snuggles into my chest. Her breath rushes across my chest in heavy pants before finally evening out into a light snore.

"'Night my sweet Lizzie," I whisper into the dark as I place a kiss on her crown and soon follow her into a blissful sleep, my soften member still buried deep within her.


Feeling the bed dip beside me, I open one sleepy eye, to see Liz getting out of the bed.

"Where are you going?" I ask, noticing that she was once again dressed in her sundress. I reach out and capture her wrist in my hand. I must have been extremely tired if I didn't even feel her get up.

"I didn't mean to wake you," she says, offering me a small smile. I tug gently and she allows me to pull her back onto the bed and I wrap my arms around her waist, placing a kiss on her forehead.

"It's okay," I assure. "Where are you going? It's late," I tell her, seeing that it was now three in the morning.

"I have an early class tomorrow," she smiles, scraping her nail over my naked chest.

"Hmm, stay with me," I mumble against her hair, taking in the faint smell of vanilla.

"I can't," she lifts up to regard me with those big doe eyes. "Stefano's coming home early tomorrow and . . . " she looks away guiltily. Silence falls over us when she doesn't finish and I know what she's saying. She has to get back before he returns, back to his bed. I try not to let the tighten in my chest bother me, especially when I knew she would eventually have to go back to him. It's the consequence I chose to endure the moment I allowed things between us to cross that line.

"I have to go," she whispers and detangles herself from me. I nod mutely as I climb out of bed and slide on my discard sweats. "Will I see you tomorrow?" she asks when we’re standing on the stoop of my apartment. I don't worry about anyone seeing us because it’s so late, most people are in bed right now. She's staring up at me with so many emotions in her eyes and can't deny her anything.

"Yeah," I say, pulling her firmly against me. She smiles brightly before wrapping her arms around my waist. I can't help myself and slant my mouth over hers for a gentle kiss. When we pull apart, she rests her head against my chest and I rub my cheek against her soft locks.

"Goodnight Lizzie," I kiss her forehead and let out a small sigh.

"'Night Max." I let her pull away reluctantly and watch her as she makes her way to her car. She sends me one last smile before heading off into the night.


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So, did you like?

Just to let you, RTL amd GS are on the way once I get them over to my beta.