Chapter 2: Building Tension
The first time Riley Thompson laid eyes on Gary Stevenson, her heartbeat quickened and her body tingled all over. Sure, she envied his wealth and the fact that she'd never have to worry about money, but it was more than that. The way he handled himself—confident, charming, commanding—drew her in like no other man ever had before. And, oh did she want him. But what would that do to her perfect family life?
The evening unfolded at a swanky downtown restaurant, with dim lights creating a seductive ambiance.
As Gary's hand brushed against Riley's thigh, she felt that familiar tremble return.
"Care to join me for a drink in my room after all this?" he asked with a roguish grin. A chill ran down Riley's spine at the thought of being alone with him.
"Sure, let's get out of this crowd," she said, surprised by the huskiness of her own voice.
Gary led Riley by the hand up to his luxe hotel room, a sumptuous space of plush bed linens, sleek marble, and breathtaking views of the glowing cityscape below. The moment the door clicked shut, the air shifted, thick and heavy with desire. Gary's knowing eyes lingered on Riley's body, awakening her nerve endings and sending heat rising through her chest.
As she leaned against the floor-to-ceiling window, Gary closed the distance between them, pressing his hips against hers.
He slipped a hand under Riley's silky blouse, tracing the curve of her lower back with his fingertips. Electricity surged through her core as their mouths connected, teeth clinking and tongues intertwining in a primal dance. "You make me feel alive, Riley," he murmured, nuzzling her neck.
Seemingly of their own volition, Riley's hands went to work, undoing the buttons of Gary's crisp white shirt. Her pulse raced as she exposed his muscular chest, slick with warm sweat.