hot breath against her skin was intoxicating. “We are at
Pleasure Inn,” she reminded him. “I’ll play.”
“I’m planning on it.” He nipped at her earlobe. “I like
games.”
“I’ll let you teach me, Professor.” A chill ran down her
spine when he kissed her jaw. What was it about this place that allowed her to
be so bold?
“Let’s eat first,” he spoke against her heated flesh. “Elyse
has gone all out and I have a feeling you’ll need the carbs for later.”
Finally! “Lead the way.” She took his hand and followed him down the long hallway
to the staircase. The sooner they finished the delicious meal, the faster
they’d be back in their room. “It smells wonderful.”
“With the exception of the waiter,” he continued as he
guided her down the stairs and to the enclosed porch, “we’ll have the whole
downstairs to ourselves.”
“Where are Logan and Elyse?” She observed the small oval
table set with fine china, fresh linens and delicate crystal.
“Elyse is finishing up in the kitchen and then they’ll both
retire to their suite on the third floor. They wanted us to have complete
privacy, but they’re available if we need them. I don’t think we will.”
“That’s very thoughtful of them.”
“Part of the allure of this place is that the guests feel
like they are secluded and removed from everything and everyone. Logan and
Elyse want their guests to feel like it’s just them and they can let their
inhibitions run wild without having to worry. They try to maintain a low profile.”
“People are going to adore this place.”
“Good evening,” a tall, young man said as he pulled out a
chair for Jacqueline. “I’m Patrick and I’ll be at your disposal this evening.
If there is anything you need, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“Thank you.” Jacqueline took her seat as she looked around
the room. The temperature had dropped due to the incoming storm but the room
felt cozy. There was a small fire pit across from their table that crackled
warmth and ambiance. She inhaled the smoky scent from the wood.
“This is an excellent choice of wine, Professor Santos.”
Patrick poured a small amount into Marcus’ glass. “I take it Mr. Cole gave you
a tour of the cellar?”
“He has an impressive selection.” Marcus swirled the clear
liquid around in his glass, inhaling the fragrance before taking a sip.
“Exquisite.”
“I’m glad you approve.” Patrick poured the wine into both
glasses. “I’ll let you relax and enjoy your wine while I see about the first
course. You’re in for a real treat tonight. Mrs. Cole is a fabulous chef.”
“We’ve been looking forward to this,” Marcus said. “Please
extend our gratitude to her.”
“I’ll be back shortly.” Patrick placed the bottle of wine in
the ice bucket by the table before making his way to the kitchen.
“I love it here.” She sipped the dark rich wine. “It’s homey
– like we could be eating dinner in our own home.”
“The intimate atmosphere works.” He reached across the table
and took her hand. “I wanted to get away – just the two of us. Logan assured me
we’d have nothing but privacy. There’s so much I want you to know. I want to
explain so you understand why I’ve been so careful with you.”
“Tell me.” She squeezed his hand encouraging him to talk to
her. “I want to hear what you have to say.”
“You’re always so interested in everything I have to say.
It’s very flattering.”
Patrick discreetly placed the salads on the table and poured
more wine into their glasses.
“Wow. It’s almost like he’s not even here.” Jacqueline
picked up her fork.
“He’s good at his job.”
“I flatter you?” She wanted to get back to their
conversation. “How so?”
“You always have. I remember when you were a freshman. You
were such an attentive student and already so advanced.”
“I’m surprised you remember me. You’ve seen so many
students. I didn’t realize