Page 44 of Tangled Trust

"Do you often have trouble sleeping?" I ask, hoping to distract myself.

"Not often, no. You?"

"No. I think the remnants of the virus working their way out of my system are what have me nightowling. What’s your theory on your dilemma?"

"Who knows?" she smiles.

Silence. The only sound is that of the microwave doing its magic while Ella and I grasp desperately for conversational topics.

"This must be a first for you," I grin. "Bumping into a half-naked employer."

"Yup. I can’t say I was planning on it," she grins back.

"Is it just me, or is this awkward?"

"Slightly."

"Okay. Let’s start over. Hi, Ella. Would you please warm up some milk for me? I’m having trouble sleeping."

"Hi, Carter. Yes, of course. Can I add a shot of whiskey? I hear it works wonders."

"A shot of whiskey is an excellent idea."

I feel more relaxed. The same cannot be said for my raging hard-on, though, so I stay where I am, with only my torso visible to Ella.

"Who knew I would walk into an alcohol-fueled slumber party?" I tease.

The sexual tension is palpable. I can tell when a woman wants me, and Ella’s eyes are speaking volumes. The only question now is, what am I going to do about it?

"Here you go," she smiles and places the drink in front of me, "one liquored-up glass of milk."

I reach out before she has a chance to remove her hand and stroke her finger lightly. She doesn’t move away.

Ella’s lips are full, and her eyes are dancing. It’s all the confirmation I need that this isn’t just me. The sexual attraction is mutual.

I don’t want to spoil the moment with too many words, so instead of using my mouth, I allow my body to speak to the stunning woman beckoning me with her eyes. She is so sexy, I have trouble controlling my breathing. Can she see how rapidly my chest is moving as I gasp for fresh air, drunk with her scent?

Ella’s skin is soft and warm under my touch. I get up and move around the counter.

"You are so beautiful," I manage, and I cup her face.

I pull her in slowly until our faces are so close that I can feel her breath. Ella parts her lips slightly. It’s the tacit permission I’ve been waiting for.

"I’m going to kiss you now," I whisper.

She doesn’t move away. Instead, she moves her head closer and opens her mouth. I have chills the moment our lips touch. Suddenly, I’m lost in her warmth. I pull her in as close as I can. Our bodies are touching and I can feel her heartbeat on my bare chest.

Ella moans softly as I run my hands over her back and cup her perfect buttocks. I’ve been dreaming of this for months, and I’m not disappointed. My hunger for this woman is deep. She tastes so good.

My lips leave hers as I taste her neck and then find her hard nipple through her nighty. She throws her head back in pleasure and digs her nails into my back. The action spurs me on.

I’m on my knees now, fumbling to rid Ella of her panties. She opens her legs slightly in anticipation. My fingers are inside her, and Ella writhes with pleasure as I explore her warmth.

"You’re perfect," I groan.

"I want you," she demands breathlessly.

I’m dizzy with pleasure. I haven't wanted anyone as much as I want this beauty, and her moans ignite an urgency in me to plunge into her.

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