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CORPORATE SEDUCTION BY A.C. ARTHUR

December 13, 2019 by ReeseRyan

Reka Boyd’s life has changed in the last four years. With a college degree, a new job title and her best friend’s wedding to help plan, she has far too much on her plate to deal with dead-end relationships or get sucked into office drama the way she used to. But when erotic emails inundate the inboxes of everyone at the firm, and a sexy new IT guy shows up to get to the bottom of the situation, she can’t help but feel the heat.

Khalil Franklin is working undercover to help his friends find out whose spamming their firm email and why. Fresh off a break-up he’s not in the market for another love interest, but as the feisty and attractive paralegal questions his every move at the firm, he finds himself falling for her fast!

Who will be left standing when a chance meeting at a sex club hatches a plan for revenge and the email scandal erupts on the top floor of Page & Associates?

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ABOUT A.C. ARTHUR

AC Arthur was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland where she currently resides with her husband, three children, grandson and an English bulldog named Vader. An active imagination and a love for reading encouraged her to begin writing in high school and she hasn’t stopped since.

Working in the legal field for over twenty-five years, AC has seen lots of horrific things and longs for the safe haven of a romance novel. To date, she has written in several genres: YA paranormal (w/a Artist Arthur), small town romance as Lacey Baker, and sexy contemporary and paranormal romance. With intriguing plots and sexy love scenes, AC brings a new edge to romance!

CONNECT WITH A.C. ARTHUR

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The Kiss and Tell Blog Tour: Making the First Move Scene

February 11, 2015 by ReeseRyan

Today, I’m participating in the Kiss and Tell Blog Tour. Read the scene below. Then, in the comments, tell me whether Raine is trying to steal a kiss or tell Melanie something. One random tour commenter will be picked each day for a $5 Amazon or B&N gift card.

Summary

Making the First Move by Reese Ryan — *Making the First Move* is available at these fine booksellers:
Amazon | B & N | B-A-M | iTunes | Amazon United Kingdom | Audible

Melanie Gordon has spent the past five years obsessing over her career to dull the pain of a devastating breakup and the loss of her father. Her effort pays off when she receives the promotion that could be her big break. Only it means returning to her hometown to face her past while leaving behind the man who could be her future.

Selfless (and insanely sexy) philanthropist, Raine Mason, is committed to his cause. But his passion for rescuing high-risk young males from the road to disaster is fueled by his own dark and tragic past.

When Raine is ready to take his casual friendship with Melanie to sizzling new heights, her one-way ticket to Cleveland is already booked. But a steamy night of passion leaves them both wanting more, even if Melanie is afraid to admit it. She reluctantly agrees to a long-distance relationship with no promises and no commitments.

Melanie may finally be ready to give Raine her heart…but then she discovers startling news that causes her to question everything she knows about him. Worse, he’s harboring a dark secret from his past that threatens to shatter any hope of a future for them unless he can convince her that their love is worth the risk.

Excerpt from Making the First Move

Thirty minutes later, Raine is standing in my doorway in a camel-colored cashmere sweater and a pair of Levi’s. A white, button-down shirt peeks underneath the collar. Chin-length, caramel-colored locs are pulled back at the crown of his head, with the remaining hair hanging free. He is, in a word, gorgeous.

My eyes trace the curve of his biceps. I lick my lips, cheeks flushed, and hope he hasn’t noticed I’ve spent the past five seconds checking him out from head to toe. Twice.

“I see you’re ready to go.” He nods toward the wrap draped over my arm and my clutch tucked underneath it.

“I am.”

“Then shall we?” Raine extends his hand in the direction of the narrow stairwell leading down to the first floor.

“Let’s.” I offer a nervous smile.

He slips his hand to the small of my back. I try not to notice the heat emanating from his hand. But it’s nearly impossible to ignore the jolt of electricity, which travels through his long, elegant fingers and enters the base of my spine.

I’m sure his hand has been on that exact spot when he’s guided me through a crowd or we’ve danced together at charity functions. His touch seemed incidental then. Tonight, there’s something about the placement and pressure of his hand that feels deliberate, significant. Or maybe I’m transferring my own well-guarded desire to an innocent gesture.

Raine guides me down the stairs, out the front door and into his car, his hand still on my back.

“Thanks for doing this,” I say. “I know it’s short notice.”

“I couldn’t leave you standing there dressed, with no place to go.” He tries to hide a smirk as he turns the ignition.

“How’d you know I was already dressed when I called?”

“You’ve never been ready when I came to pick you up. There’s not a chance in hell you threw this together in thirty minutes. You look…amazing.”

“Very clever,” I say. “And thank you, I think.”

“It’s too bad, actually.”

“What’s too bad?”

“That you were ready. I was hoping to catch you in a towel, just out of the shower,” he says, his eyes straight ahead.

My cheeks grow warm. I’m not offended, just surprised. Our social conversations have been mildly flirtatious, but never anything so easily decipherable. We prefer our flirtation so well-coded that only a world-class hacker has a chance in hell of sorting it all out.

I stifle a giggle. “Sorry to disappoint you.”

He smiles.

We ride in silence for a while. He pays strict attention to the road. I pretend to be fascinated by the houses and apartments that fly by my window. The same ones I’ve seen nearly every day for the past five years.

“How about some music?” Raine finally breaks the silence.

“Sure. What’ve you got?”

“There should be something in there you can tolerate.” He nods toward his iPod then gestures for an elderly gentleman—who is halfway into the intersection—to cross the street.

I scroll through his iPod. “The Collection by Alanis Morissette?” I laugh. “I wouldn’t have pegged you for an Alanis fan.”

“I’m a complicated kind of guy.” He winks at me.

“Let’s see just how complicated.” I keep scrolling until I come across Learn to Speak Spanish. “I didn’t know you were learning Spanish.”

“I’ve had that forever. All I can say is No hablo español.” He shrugs. “There’s nothing to tell.”

“Why are you learning it?”

There’s a slight pause before he answers. “A lot of my clients speak English as a second language. Communicating with them in their native tongue lends to a more powerful experience. Besides, as you know—Ms. Regional Talent Manager, is it?—being bilingual makes me more marketable.”

“It’s the Great Lakes Regional Talent Acquisition Manager,” I practically sing, “thank you very much. And I’m glad you’re thinking about your marketability. The work you’re doing at the Center is important, but I wouldn’t blame you if you went for a corporate job. You’ve got a lot to offer.”

Raine turns toward me at a stoplight. There’s something intense, brooding about his eyes, like dark gray clouds rolling in ahead of a fierce storm. He wants to say something but isn’t quite ready to say it.

The light turns green, and the driver behind us blows the horn. Raine pulls off.

“Personally or professionally?” He stares ahead again.

“Both, of course.”

“So as a headhunter you’d consider me a viable candidate?”

“Sure. You have years of experience in social services and nonprofit administration. You’re passionate about making a difference in the community. Dozens of organizations—nonprofits, corporations, government agencies—are desperate for a candidate like you. I could have you placed in a week, easy.”

“That’s good to know.” Raine turns into the parking lot of Spinelli’s and finds a spot. “What about personally? Would someone like you, for instance—a successful, professional woman—think I have a lot to offer?”

My heart beats faster. I nod. “Yes. Someone like me would.”

Raine bites his lower lip. The left side of his mouth slowly spreads into a subdued smile. He pushes his door open. “Don’t move. I’ll be right there.”

He walks around, opens my door and extends his hand. I stare at it, as if he’s a smiling stranger offering candy. Taking a deep breath, I gently place my hand in his. He tightens his grip and draws me out of the car.

We stand so close our bodies practically touch. His delicious scent fills my nostrils. For a fleeting moment it seems he’s going to lean in and kiss me. Instead he steps back, extends his elbow and leads me inside the restaurant.

<=====END OF EXCERPT=====>

Don’t forget to leave your comment below. Is Raine trying to kiss Melanie or tell her something? Good luck!

Cupid, Psyche and…Mom #MWTease #Bad Boys Gone Good

December 17, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Happy Hump Day, everyone! It’s time to take a peek behind the covers of books and works in progress of several authors during the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Raine surprised Melanie by coming to visit her for the weekend. She is thrilled to let him into her home and bed, but not so willing to let him into her family. Her mother , Ellie Gordon, would like nothing more than to see her married. The last thing Mel wants to do is give her a prospect on which to focus. However, when Melanie takes Raine to one of her favorite places in town, the Cleveland Museum of Art, she runs into the last person on earth she wants Raine to meet.

<=====Excerpt from Making the First Move=====>

He holds me closer, our cheeks flushed as we stand in front of Jacques Louis David’s enormous painting of Cupid and Psyche lying naked in an elaborate bed, basking in the afterglow of their lovemaking.

Raine kisses the side of my face and whispers in my ear, “I know how that guy feels.”

Cupid and Psyche by Jacques-Louis David at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of rocor. — Cupid and Psyche by Jacques-Louis David at the Cleveland Museum of Art

Before I can tell him I know how Psyche feels, too, I’m interrupted by a familiar voice.

“Melanie!”

My spine stiffens. There are times when my mother’s voice echoes in my head. It stopped me from going to third base on several occasions in high school. But it’s never quite this vivid.

“Melanie!”

Raine and I both stop to look at the woman quickly approaching.

It’s my mother!

Mimi tries to keep up, laden with her huge purse and the boys’ jackets. Mickey and Dusty are nowhere in sight.

“Mom? Mimi? What are you doing here?”

“We actually came to see the art.” Mom grins and winks at me as she leans in to give me a hug. “Who’s your handsome friend?”

I take a deep breath. I’m not prepared for this, introducing Raine to my mother. Should I call him my boyfriend? “Mom, I’d like you to meet Raine Mason. He’s…a friend of mine.” I give him a look that begs forgiveness in advance for anything inappropriate my mother might say. “Raine, this is my mother, Ellie Gordon.”

She rakes her fingers through her hair and stands a bit straighter.

“Mrs. Gordon, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard a lot about your magnificent cooking.” He extends his hand.

A wide grin spreads across her face. She slips her hand into his. “Well, it’s certainly a pleasure to meet you, Raine. Though I’m at a disadvantage. You’re apparently my daughter’s best-kept secret. She hasn’t breathed a word to us about you.”

Mom glances back at Mimi. My sister looks as guilty now as she did when she was seven and she’d denied stealing my mother’s makeup with pink-stained lips and clown-red cheeks.

“Well, she hasn’t breathed a word to me, at least,” Mom continues. “I have no idea why she’d be hiding such a handsome, polite young man from her mother.” She raises an eyebrow at me.

I rub my forehead, wishing it were a genie lamp that would grant my wish to have never left the condo this morning. “I haven’t been hiding him, Mom. Raine lives in San Francisco.”

Her smile widens. “You came here, all the way from San Francisco, to see my Melanie? You two sound like more than just friends.” She pokes me in the side with her elbow.

I cough. Mimi stares, wide-eyed.

“We are more than just friends,” Raine says sheepishly. He seems to feel the need to explain to my mother why he was draped all over me a moment ago. “I’ve been trying my best to convince your beautiful daughter to be my girlfriend.”

“My daughter is a little gun-shy and a bit of a workaholic. But keep working on her.” She speaks to him in a loud whisper behind her open hand, as if only he can hear her.

“Mom!” Mimi says sharply.

Raine is clearly amused.

“Raine, this is my sister, Michele.”

Mimi shifts her purse and the boys’ coats to her left arm and extends her right hand to him. He shakes her hand.

“Good to meet you.” He smiles. “Melanie’s told me so much about you and your boys.”

She smiles approvingly. “Nice to meet you, too.”

“How long will you be in town, Raine?” I can see the plot brewing in my mother’s head.

“Just for the weekend. I flew in on Thursday evening to surprise Melanie. I leave Monday morning.”

“Melanie, you should’ve brought Raine over to the house. I could’ve kept him company on Friday while you were at work, shown him around town.”

“Maybe next time I’m in town.” He beams at her.

Mom smiles then elbows me again. “What a darling!” She looks at me as if I’ve just won the lottery. “Raine, you have to join us for dinner tomorrow. You were going to bring him to dinner, weren’t you?” My mother looks at me accusingly.

I clear my throat. “Actually, I was thinking…since Raine’s only here for a few days…”

“Look, I don’t blame you for wanting to spend the weekend shut in with this one.” She jerks her thumb toward Raine and bares her teeth at him in a flirtatious grin I’ve never seen my mother use before and hope never to see again. “But you’ve gotta come up for air sometime and you two have to eat. I’m guessing there’s only an assortment of condiments in your refrigerator.”

My cheeks flush. My head throbs. I bury my forehead in my hand.

Raine can’t hold back anymore. His entire body convulses in a raspy chuckle as he drapes an arm around me. “I’d love to come to dinner.” Raine flashes that irresistible grin at my mother and I’m pretty sure I see her swoon. “But I know Melanie has a lot planned for me this weekend.” Mom looks at me as if to say, “I’ll bet she does” and it seriously makes me throw up in my mouth a little. “How about if we promise to get back to you with an answer by the end of the day?”

“Fabulous!” Mom can barely contain her excitement at the possibility. She squeezes Raine’s hand and kisses me on the cheek. I breathe a sigh of relief, thankful for the reprieve.

“Are you two just getting here?” Mimi asks. She blushes when she finally notices we’re standing in front of Cupid and Psyche.

“We’ve been here for a while, exploring the original building. We’re about to make our way to the new galleries.” I try to regain my composure. “What about you guys?”

“I took your advice and enrolled Mickey and Dusty in the art classes here. We decided to stay and explore the museum while they’re in class, maybe grab lunch at the café.”

“Lunch! That’s an excellent idea.” My mother claps her hands together. “Why don’t we all go for lunch at the café? That’ll give us a chance to get to know each other.”

I glance at Raine. He seems about as eager as my mother does. “Fine,” I say. “We’ll do lunch.”

“Great,” Mom says, “that’ll give me plenty of time to talk you two into coming to dinner.”

Before I can object, Raine has already extended his free arm to my mother. “I’m starving, Mrs. Gordon. Lead the way.”

Mom grabs Raine’s elbow. “Call me Ellie,” she drawls like a Southern belle, which she is not. She was born, raised and has always lived in the Midwest.

“Yes, ma’am, Ellie.” Raine flashes that damn adorable grin.

I want to protest, to tell her he’s mine. I want to spend the weekend with him. Alone. But there’s no use fighting it. All I can do is prepare myself for an hour of uncomfortable questions. Questions I can’t answer.

<=====END OF EXCERPT=====>

That Ellie is a pistol. She is the caring, wise, no-nonsense matriarch of the Gordon Family, and I had a blast writing her character in both Making the First Move and Love Me Not. Okay, now it’s time to dive into some of the tasty treats prepared for you by my fellow teasers. Please visit them at the links below.

Happy Teasing!

Cupid and Psyche by Jacques-Louis David at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of rocor.

Surprise Visits and Peach Bath Towels #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

December 10, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s that time of the week when we get to take a peek behind the covers of published books and works in progress of various authors, thanks to our fabulous host Sandra Bunino. The past few weeks, I’ve been sharing excerpts from my novel, Making the First Move.

Melanie Gordon and Raine Mason finally acted upon their feelings for each other. Unfortunately, it was after Melanie got a promotion that sends her back to her hometown, which is clear across the country. Initially, she resists the idea of a long-distance relationship. However, a few months after she returns home, Raine finally convinces her to give it a shot. Now, a few months into their long-distance relationship, he surprises her by visiting Cleveland in the dead of winter. In this scene, not long after his arrival, she’s slipped off to her bedroom to shower and tidy up when she hears a knock at her bedroom door.

<=====Excerpt from Making the First Move=====>

I crack the door with one hand, and brace the towel that is struggling to conceal my ample curves with the other.

“Yes?” I try to ignore the fact that his eyes are slowly scanning what he can see above and below the towel. “I’ll be just a few more minutes.”

“And what if I can’t wait a few more minutes?” His hand rests against the door.

“You can’t rush perfection.” I bat my eyes playfully.

“You’re already perfect.” He leans in to kiss me. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re in a ballroom gown, sweats or a peach bath towel.”

Raine gently traces the skin on my chest, just above the towel, which holds on precariously against the strain of my breasts. He trails his fingers up my neck and kisses me.

“Well, at least let me get—”

Raine cuts me off with a kiss.

He holds my face in his hands. “I know you want everything to be perfect, but all I want is you. Just the way you are. Right now.”

I smile, walking backward slowly until my calves hit the side of the bed. I take a deep breath and let the towel drop.

Raine takes the towel off my head and tosses it on the floor. Wet curls frame my face and cover my eyes. I pull his sweater over his head and unbutton his shirt. He peels off his undershirt and jeans.

We enjoy the warmth of each other’s bodies on this frigid winter night. Each kiss, each touch melts the ice from my heart and body just a little more.

His hands caress my hardened nipples. He nips at them gently with his teeth and circles them slowly with his tongue. Raine trails kisses along my neck, between my breasts, down my stomach. The steady thump of my heart rivals the intensity of the pulsing ache between my thighs.

He talks to me in a low, sensuous tone, demanding to know what I want, what I like, where I want him to touch me. Right now the answer is everywhere. I wish he were able to touch every throbbing, pulsing nerve at once.

He withholds the one thing I want so badly, until I ask for it. Beg for it. Then he peels himself off of me and slides off the briefs that have been trying unsuccessfully to restrain the bulge beneath them. He fumbles through his wallet, pulls out a condom and puts it on. Good. He’s prepared. Right now I’m in a euphoric daze, not thinking straight because all I want is…

Raine slowly guides himself inside of me. My breath is quick and shallow. I press my fingers into his back, pulling him closer. I wrap my legs around him, allowing him to thrust deeper inside. He glides in and out of me slowly, deliberately. All of my senses are heightened. I’m distinctly aware of the heat of his skin, his captivating scent, the hardness of his body in contrast to my soft curves, every sound we make.

Raine rocks us gently into moments of intense pleasure. Moments in which I say things I’ve never said to a man before. I beg him not to stop. I plead for more. I tell him how much I need him and where.

For a moment I forget how convoluted and impossible long-distance relationships can be. I forget all the objections I wrestle with whenever I consider the possibility of taking the relationship further.

My only thought is, I want this man in my bed every night. I want to start my day over coffee with him in the morning and discuss my day with him over dinner at night.

Afterward he holds me in his arms. My body fits perfectly against his like the curved, vintage set of salt and pepper shakers my mother owns. I wish we could stay like this forever.

I try to push all the disquieting thoughts from my mind. The ones that remind me Raine is only here for the weekend and come Monday night, I’ll be sleeping alone, wishing he were beside me.

<=====End of Excerpt=====>

Melanie is finding it difficult enough to navigate a long-distance relationship. Still unsure about where this will all lead, the last thing she wants to do is to get her mother’s hope up, by introducing Raine to her family. But next week we’ll discover that she has very little choice in the matter.

Now, it’s time for more teasing fun. Check out the teases at the links below. That’s where I’ll be. I can’t wait to see what everyone has in store.

“I’ve seen this in Lifetime movies. It doesn’t end well.” #MWTease

December 3, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s time to sample teasers from a wide range of talented authors. A little something we like to call the Mid Week Tease, hosted by the fabulous Sandra Bunino. If you missed my tease last week (and you probably did, because like the genius I sometimes am, I forgot to sign up for last week’s tease) you’ll find that Melanie and Raine…ahem…made a connection. It’s now the morning after that delicious feeling of complete and utter ecstasy and Mel is still getting to know this new side of Raine.

<=====Excerpt of Making the First Move=====>

Saturday morning I awake alone, tangled in the sheet. I roll over and look at the clock. It’s ten-thirty. Sitting up, I look around for evidence of my night with Raine. I need confirmation that it wasn’t an exceedingly vivid fantasy. Raine’s clothes are no longer on the floor where he’d tossed them last night, but I smell food and hear pots clanging.

Slipping from under the covers, I hurry into the bathroom, grateful I won’t be forced to do an awkward sheet shimmy.

The mirror reveals what Raine must have seen this morning. Hair smashed flat on one side, crust in the corners of my eyes—and is that dried drool? I shudder.

Standing under the steaming hot water in the shower, I lather my hair, replaying the night before. Finally I emerge from the bathroom in my bathrobe—teeth brushed, body scrubbed, hair washed and pulled into a neat, low bun.

I follow the tantalizing aroma of breakfast. Raine stands at the stove barefoot in jeans and an undershirt. He turns toward the sound of my footsteps. His eyes light up and he breaks into a grin that flexes every muscle in his face. The last time someone was this glad to see me, I had to take him for a walk and give him doggy treats.

“Morning, sleepyhead.” He leans in to kiss me then quickly returns his attention to the skillet. “Hungry?”

“You cuddle. You spend the night. You make breakfast.” I shake my head. “Are you for real? ’Cause I’ve seen this in Lifetime movies. It doesn’t end well.”

When he looks away quickly, I’m afraid I’ve offended him. But then the right side of his mouth turns up in a half smile.

“Consider yourself the beneficiary of two decades of trial and error,” he says. “Or maybe this is all part of my evil plan.” He raises his eyebrows up and down manically.

“So there is an evil plan. Well, that’s a relief.” I smile. “But I shouldn’t be surprised. There’s a lot more to you than you let on.” I gently trace the sword tattoo on his right arm with my fingertips.

Raine offers a quick smile before he focuses on his cooking again. He slides a spatula underneath the omelet he’s cooking and gently flips it. “Like I said, things were crazy for a few years. My mother likes to call it my ‘Tattoo Period.’”

“Looks like you were quite the badass.” I touch the faded blue head of a large phoenix across his back. “Exactly how many tattoos do you have?”

“Four. One on each arm. One on my chest. One on my back. It only looks like more because of their size.” He picks up a strip of bacon and offers it to me. I take a bite. “That’s practically a choir boy by NBA standards.”

“True.” I nibble on the bacon. “Still, there must be a helluva story behind every one of those.”

“There is.” A hint of perturbance flashes behind stormy gray eyes. “But that’s a conversation for another day.” The corner of his mouth lifts in a subdued smile as he hands me another piece of bacon.

“Okay,” I concede, taking a seat behind the breakfast bar. “I’m absolutely starving and everything smells and tastes delicious. I have to admit, I’m pretty impressed.”

“Don’t be. It’s the only meal in my repertoire.” His shoulders relax and he smiles. “Got any plans this weekend?”

At least a hundred things I should be doing come to mind. There are plans to make and five years of my life to pack. “Nothing really.”

“I thought we could hang out this weekend.”

“Sounds nice. What did you have in mind?”

“How about a picnic in the park this afternoon?”

“A picnic? I haven’t been on one since I was a kid.”

My dad loved picnics. We would each make our own sandwiches. Mom would make one of her homemade apple pies. We’d play bocce ball. I haven’t thought about those family picnics for years.

I can see and hear my dad so clearly. His broad smile. The glint in his eyes. His contagious laugh. I miss him. But I’m taken off guard by how much I miss the other faces around that picnic blanket—my mother, my sister and Jamie.

“You alright?” Raine sets breakfast in front of me.

“I’m fine. Just thinking about…a picnic.” I smile. “I’d love to go.”

“Great. Now, try this.” He feeds me the spinach omelet he’s been making.

“Delish.” I take the fork from him, stab another forkful and shove it into my mouth.

He pours me a glass of orange juice.

“What else is on the agenda this weekend?” I ask between bites of omelet.

Raine stands behind me and wraps his arms around my waist. “Let’s just say omelets and orange juice aren’t the only O I plan to give you this weekend.” He laughs when I drop my fork. “I have a few errands to run this morning and I need to go home and change first,” he continues.

“Would it be easier if I just got dressed and went with you?” I ask, hoping for a chance to see his place.

“No,” he says quickly. “I mean, it won’t take me long. I’ll be back in a couple of hours. When I get back maybe I can show you a few more of my…hidden talents.”

Clearing my throat, I try to smile demurely. “I think that can be arranged.” I take a sip of orange juice.

“Then it’s a date.” Raine turns my chair around and kisses me long and hard. A kiss that melts me like a pudding pop dropped on a sizzling summer sidewalk.

I squeeze my eyes shut and remind myself not to get used to this. In a few days I’ll be back in Cleveland for a visit. Less than a month from now my fling with Raine will be nothing more than a pleasant memory.

So why am I missing him from the moment the door clicks shut?

<=====END OF EXCERPT=====>

Hmm…seems like things are going to be a bit more complicated than Mel had hoped. Next time we’ll see what happens after she returns from her quick trip home, where she reunites with her family and best friend/sister, Jamie Charles, of Love Me Not. But now it’s time to see what everyone else is offering this week. I’ll see you at the next stop.

Happy teasing!

This Delicious Feeling of Complete and Utter Ecstasy #MWTease

November 26, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s that time of the week when we get to take a peek behind the covers of currently available novels and novellas and works in progress of several, talented authors–the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Last week I shared an excerpt from my debut, Making the First Move. Melanie and Raine have had a business relationship and a casual friendship that has included a few “plus one” situations. However, once Raine discovered that Melanie would be relocating to Cleveland, he felt compelled to finally act on his feelings for her. Melanie knows nothing can come of this, but then again, she has nothing to lose. Or does she?

<=====Excerpt of Making the First Move=====>

The twenty or so steps to my bed seem like the longest walk I’ve ever taken. My nipples throb from his sucking and teasing, my heart is beating like a drum and there’s a steady, dull ache emanating from between my thighs. Every erogenous zone on my body is doing a celebration dance, like farmers welcoming the first drops of rain. My body is completely in line with my decision. My head feels the need to interfere.

Why are we doing this? I’m about to leave.

Did I make my bed?

I hope I wore matching underwear today.

What’s going to happen after this?

Maybe we shouldn’t…

We stop at the foot of the bed and look at it for an instant, then at each other.

I place my hands on his chest and lean into him, forcing my eyes to meet his. It’s exceedingly difficult to divert my gaze from his body. The man is sex poured into a glass on ice with a twist of lemon. And I want him.

God, do I want him.

“Is this one of those moments we’re going to seriously regret in the morning?” My voice comes out shaky and for the first time since we started this I’m very conscious of the fact that we’re both half-naked.

He kisses my palm, then my fingertips. “I could never regret this,” he says. “What about you?”

“No,” I say. “No regrets.”

I lean into him and press my mouth on his. He lifts me slightly, puts one knee on the bed and then lowers his body on mine.

He brushes loose curls from my face. “You’re fucking gorgeous. You know that?” He kisses me again before I respond. “Do you know how long I’ve wanted to say that? To tell you how much I need you? I should’ve told you a long time ago.”

“Yes, you should have. But perhaps you can make it up to me.” I flash him a naughty smile as I trace his deliciously full lips with my thumb.

The corner of his mouth lifts in a devilish grin. He presses his mouth against mine. His tongue dives in immediately. Mine invites it to a passionate dance. A rehearsal for the union I hope will soon take place.

But Raine has something else in mind.

He rolls off me and slides his hand down my stomach, which I try hard to hold in. He kisses my belly and slides his fingertips back and forth underneath the waistband of my jeans. A difficult task, since there’s very little room to spare. He unfastens the button and slowly unzips them.

Raine peels off the jeans that are practically a second skin and pushes them off onto the floor, an act I’m willing to overlook. He removes his jeans and tosses them next to mine.

He bites his lower lip as he studies me lying, trembling, on the bed in nothing but a pair of red satin panties.

I feel exposed in a way I never have before. Butterflies do a synchronized waltz inside my stomach. My chest rises and falls rapidly. I’m eager, but try not to show it. And a little uneasy, but I try not to show that either.

Raine has been my Taye Diggs. The hot guy you fantasize about but never delude yourself into thinking you can actually have. So while I’ll admit to the fantasy, the realization that he’s actually in my bed is a little unnerving.

He kisses my neck. My breasts. My stomach. Above my waistband, which he is now edging down, taking a peek. I lift my hips to help him remove my panties. I can feel the dampness against my skin as he slides them down my leg.

Raine plants soft, delicate kisses along my belly, pelvic bone and inner thigh. My body responds with a sharp inhalation to his warm lips pressing against my throbbing clit. I grip the bedding and writhe as he teases it with his tongue. I bite my lower lip and practically hold my breath in an attempt to muffle the sounds trying to escape as I’m overcome by a wave of intense pleasure.

It feels as if I’m about to implode from this delicious feeling of complete and utter ecstasy. Is that possible? Death by sex? Because it seems like a very real possibility.

Suddenly he stops. I’ve barely taken a breath before he dives his nimble tongue inside me and works its magic.

Oh…my…God.

I moan and thrust against him, wanting, needing more. He’s only too happy to oblige. He threads his arms through my legs then presses his fingers inside my thighs, splaying them further open and anchoring my bottom to the bed.

My soft whimpering escalates to match the increased speed of his tongue, dipping in and out of my slick core. My lips part and my chin lifts as I ride this intense wave of pleasure. My breath becomes quick and ragged as he sends me spiraling into an orgasm that is like a jolt of electricity delivered to every inch of my body.

<=====END OF EXCERPT=====>

Thus begins what Melanie expects to be a short fling between her and Raine. Then they’ll both go their separate ways and chalk this up to a missed opportunity. Only, things rarely work out exactly as we expect. Stay tuned.

Now, before we all go and stuff our faces with turkey and a yummy variety of carb-loaded sides, it’s time to see what tasty teases my fellow authors have in store. By the way, all teases this week are guaranteed to be carb-free. 😉

Happy teasing!

The Relationship Equivalent of a Mirage #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

November 19, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s time for the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino. This week I’m shifting gears and sharing a scene from my debut novel, Making the First Move. Melanie Gordon received a promotion earlier today that will send her back to her hometown of Cleveland (and mine). A move she isn’t emotionally prepared for. She goes out to celebrate with Raine Mason, a casual friend with whom she has an standing “plus one” arrangement. However, when Raine learns that she’s relocating, he confesses that he wants more than just friendship. The two were interrupted at dinner, before they could discuss the situation further, and Melanie is now back at her apartment…alone.

<=====Excerpt of Making the First Move=====>

A knock at the door disturbs my thoughts. For a moment I think I dreamed it. A series of short, rapid knocks assures me the sound is real. We have to buzz guests into our building, so it’s probably Debbie or Dawn. Still, as my mother often reminds me, a single girl living alone can never be too careful. I pick up a slender metal vase. Not because I’m afraid. Because I can’t bear the thought of hearing “I told you so” throughout infinity.

I creep quietly to the door, just in case it is some psycho who’s come here to club me to death. I hold my breath and peek through the peephole.

Oh, shit! It isn’t Debbie or Dawn.

Stepping quickly but quietly to face the mirror hanging next to my front door, I run my fingers through my hair. Going for a look of calculated disorder, I give my head a good shake. Not a good idea after three mojitos.

There’s another round of knocks, this time more urgent. I take a deep breath, unlock the door then slowly turn the knob.

Raine stands there, his hand against the door frame, a perturbed look on his face.

“Hey,” I say nonchalantly, “did we forget something?”

He doesn’t respond. Instead he searches my face as if he expects to find the answer to a question he has yet to ask. It’s only a few seconds, but it feels like an eternity.

I open my mouth to speak. Before a single word can escape he steps forward and presses his warm palms on either side of my face. His warm breath smells of cinnamon. His intense gaze locks with mine. The throbbing pulse that emanates from his thumbs reverberates against my cheekbones.

He leans in closer. My breath quickens and I’m keenly aware of the rise and fall of my chest. Body trembling, I close my eyes and lean in, ever so slightly.

He presses his lips, firm and soft, against mine. I take a deep breath, my lips part slightly. He readily accepts the invitation. His tongue slips inside and glides against mine.

I can barely breathe. His kiss is greedy, intense. It sends a chill down my spine yet sets every nerve in my body ablaze with a consuming fire. I’m overwhelmed by the sensation of heat, the increased sensitivity of my skin and the pulsing ache between my thighs. I break free to catch my breath.

“Lock the door.” My words come out ragged, breathy.

He releases me and locks the door. When he turns around I tug on his sweater, pulling him farther inside my apartment, until I’m backed against the wall.

He smiles then leans in to kiss me again. His lips press firmly on mine. His tongue darts in and out of my mouth as he grinds his hips into me, pinning me to the wall. I can feel his growing erection hard against my inner thigh.

There’s an insatiable hunger in our kisses. The kind that comes from an intense craving for something you want so badly, but don’t believe you can ever really have. Each kiss pulls me in deeper, makes me want him more.

This may be the relationship equivalent of a mirage, but it looks, tastes and feels damned good, and I’m going for it. And I’m going to enjoy every goddamned second of it. Starting now.

I slide my hands underneath his shirt. They glide slowly up the muscular ridges of his abs. My thumbs gently graze his nipples. He sucks in a deep breath in response. I grab hold of the edge of his sweater and shirt and inch them over his head. He pulls them off the rest of the way and tosses them on the floor.

Raine has been hiding more than just washboard abs under that sweater. A tattoo of a large sword with a vine wrapped around it and a vibrant red rose on its elaborate hilt decorates his right arm. A tribal tattoo rings his left bicep. I press my fingertips against the tattoo on the left side of his chest. It’s a bloody heart, pierced by a dagger with a skull handle. There’s a ribbon across it that says Forever. The word is barely visible.

Discovering a darker side to Raine, whose demeanor is more choir boy than badass, is unnerving, yet intriguing. What other secrets lie beneath his cool, calm surface?

My gaze meets his penetrating stare, like a panther sizing up his prey. It unravels me. My knees tremble in response and any concerns about what I’m getting myself into quickly shift to the back of my mind. My only concern, at this moment, is the feel of his hands on my skin.

I lift my blouse over my head and toss it onto a chair. Pulse racing, I guide his hands to the front closure of my red satin bra.

He unhooks it in a single motion and trails kisses down my neck and shoulder as he slides the straps down my arms. The gust of cool air against my hypersensitive nipples only heightens my arousal. He palms my breasts as he continues raining kisses down my body toward nipples already taut, begging for attention.

He swirls his firm tongue around my nipple a few times before flicking it across the sensitive flesh. I let out a long sigh in response.

Moaning softly, I grind my hips against him and twist his hair around my trembling fingers. The space between my thighs grows warmer and wetter. I’m floating in a feeling that is intoxicating and torturous all at the same time. But as good as this feels, I’m ready for more.

I press my hands into his chest, creating a sliver of space between us. Then I grab his hand and lead him to my bedroom.

<=====END OF EXCERPT=====>

What happens on the other side of that door? I hope you’ll come back next week to find out. 😉 In the meantime, check out the tasty teases that this week’s authors have in store.

Smooches!

Love in the Tub (and other dangerous sports) #MWTease

November 12, 2014 by ReeseRyan

It’s time for the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino, where we get to sample excerpts from a variety of authors. Each week we look forward to the opportunity to share our work with you. But, let’s face it…authors are also voracious readers. So we’re just as eager to sample the yummy wares of our fellow authors.

Miles is in deep and Jamie’s feelings for him have been steadily growing. It’s been quite a journey since they first made love and her feelings for him scared her to death. After breaking her ‘no overnight stays’ rule for Miles, she’s become a staple at his place each weekend. When an old friend, who also has feelings for her, raises doubts about their relationship, it prompts Jamie to question why they never spend the night at her humble attic apartment. This is his first weekend staying at her place and Jamie finds a way to make it as memorable for Miles as he made her first overnight stay at his place.

<===Love Me Not Excerpt===>

“Mind if I take a shower?” Miles unzipped his bag, balanced on a trunk at the foot of her bed.

She’d already climbed into bed. “Just let me know if you need anything.”

He ducked into the bathroom and undressed, surveying the long, narrow clawfoot tub made of solid cast iron, painted black on the outside. He smiled. Of course. She wouldn’t have gone for a traditional color like white.

Miles yanked his sweater over his head and tossed it on top of the hamper. He slipped out of the rest of his clothing, turned on the water and stepped into the shower. While he was lathering himself the curtain was suddenly yanked back. He jumped.

Jamie laughed. “Who’d you think it was? Norman Bates?” She pulled her T-shirt and bra over her head, wriggled out of her shorts and stepped into the shower.

“I thought you were sleepy.” He smiled.

She wrapped her arms around his waist and kissed his back. “Suddenly I’m not so sleepy anymore.”

Their attempt to make love in a slippery clawfoot tub that was narrow and too far from any usable wall was comical at best. Sex was not only impossible, but dangerous. Still, she found another way to make their first shower together at her place memorable.

Jamie dropped to her knees in the tub, her hands gripping the base of his cock as she traced the tip with her tongue. He let out a little moan and braced his feet against the sides of the tub. He’d nearly fallen twice already; he didn’t want a concussion to interrupt what she was doing now.

She ran her tongue along the ridge underneath, and he murmured something even he couldn’t understand. When she took the tip into her warm mouth it sent a jolt of electricity up his spine. She swirled her tongue around the head of his shaft, as her hands slid up and down his growing length.

When she opened her mouth and took him in deeper, he let out a strangled moan. He tangled his fingers in her hair, careful not to force her head toward him, despite every muscle in his body screaming for him to do just that.

She was a fucking master at this. His body trembled, pleasure building, as she sucked him, her hand moving over the tight skin of his scrotum. Near his pinnacle, he tried to pull away, but her eyes met his and a wicked grin crinkled the corners of her eyes as she gripped his ass, pulling him in deeper.

He cursed, body trembling, cock convulsing, her eyes never leaving his.

He turned off the water and stepped out of the tub, lifting her in his arms and carrying her to the bed, both of their bodies soaking wet. He was desperate to be inside her, but first, he’d return the favor.

Laying her on the bed, he spread her legs. She’d been as turned on by her performance as he had. The lips of her sex were swollen with desire, her opening slick with her want. His dick twitched as he dove his tongue in, desperate for a taste of her.

“Mmm…” A low, purring sound vibrated through her chest as she dug her heels into the mattress.

He slid his tongue in deeper, savoring her addictive taste—both salty and sweet. Slipping two fingers inside her, he watched the intense satisfaction reflected on her gorgeous face as she gripped the bedding, her legs trembling. She was almost there. He swirled his tongue across her hardened clit as she writhed in ecstasy, bucking her hips toward him.

He licked and fingered her, increasing his speed in response to her commands to “Go faster” or “More, there, right there.” Her walls clenched, gripping his fingers, her body shivering. He smiled with satisfaction. She was sprawled across the bed, hair everywhere, skin dewy, completely spent. She forced her knees together, rolling back and forth slightly as she gasped for breath.

He laid kisses along her shoulder, then cradled her body against his, pulling the cover over them. “Not a bad way to kick things off at your place.”

She opened her eyes and touched his cheek, gazing at him for a moment. “There is one more thing I’d like you to do.” Her voice was quiet, their faces barely an inch apart as she spoke.

“Anything. Just name it.”

She licked her lips and took a deep breath, her hand still on his cheek. “Make love to me.”

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

While Jamie’s relationship struggles aren’t over, I’ve gotta say, “You’ve come a long way, baby!” Knowing about the awful events of her past, which the reappearance of her birth mother is forcing her to deal with, only makes me want to see this girl get her happy ending that much more. Read Miles and Jamie’s story in its entirety here.

Now, let’s discover what goodies the other teasing authors this week have in store.

Happy teasing!

Clawfoot tub photo courtesy of ahhfred. Some rights reserved.

You’ve got good taste in cheese #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

November 5, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Right about now you’re probably crashing from the sugar high you got after raiding the kiddies’ Trick or Treat stash (or maybe from ingesting the clearance candy, or is that just me?). No worries, we’ve got something that will perk you back up, calorie-free. It’s time for the Mid Week Tease, hosted by Sandra Bunino.

Last week Jamie and Miles finally made love. While Miles is down in the kitchen, dreamily preparing a late night snack, the reality of Jamie’s growing feelings for Miles has caused ugly memories from her past to resurface, reminding her of how dangerous it can be to let someone too close. Miles is eager to wake up with Jamie in his bed. She, on the other hand, feels the need for some space and has offered to take a cab home.

<===Love Me Not Excerpt===>

“I’m not going to let you take a cab home.” He tried to prevent his disappointment and frustration from seeping into his voice but was doing a terrible job. “If you want to leave now, of course I’ll take you. But first, answer one question for me honestly.”

He could feel her back tense under his fingers, but she nodded. “Sure. What is it?”

“That last time we…well, it was incredible, and I felt like we really…I don’t know, connected. I know you felt it, too, because you’ve sort of been pulling away ever since then. So is this really about your overnight rule, or are you just trying to put some space between us?”

Her eyes widened and met his for a moment. She looked away quickly and pressed her flattened palms into his chest, pushing away from him. “I just need to go home, okay?” She folded her arms and turned her back to him. “Don’t try to make this about something else.”

He gently placed his hand on her shoulder. Her muscles were tense beneath his fingers. He leaned down and kissed the top of her head. “Then that’s all it is. I’ll go and get dressed.”

She nodded, exhaling. “Thank you.”

“You must be hungry though. I’m starving. What if we have a bite to eat first?”

She took a seat on one of the bar stools and plucked a red grape and a square of cheese from the tray he’d been making. “I am kind of hungry. Hey, is that Gruyere? I love Gruyere.” She popped the cheese and fruit in her mouth and chewed. “Mmm…good.”

Miles smiled. Mmm…good. He’d been thinking the same thing when he’d had his first taste of her. He resumed slicing cheese, unable to avert his gaze from her as she opened her mouth and took a bite of one of the immense strawberries, followed by a piece of Havarti.

Did she have any idea how tantalizing she looked right now? He should be completely sated after the marathon lovemaking session they’d had in the previous hours, but he had a desperate need to take her again, right here on the counter. He groaned inwardly. He’d promised her that he’d take her home after they ate, and he would. But he didn’t have to like it.

He sliced another piece of Gruyere and extended it to her. The wily twinkle in her lovely green eyes made his heart skip a beat. She leaned forward and took the morsel from his fingers, nicking them a little with her teeth.

She walked around the island and wrapped her arms around his waist as she brushed her lips along the skin of his back, leaving nerves tingling in the wake of kisses that felt like zings of electricity. “You’ve got good taste in cheese. I like that in a man.”

Miles turned to face her, pulling her into him, his length pressed against her belly.

She was enjoying this. Seemed to revel in the power she had over his anatomy. A tight smile curled one corner of her mouth, and he had to delve his tongue between those luscious lips that teased him, daring him to have a taste.

“I should’ve known you only wanted me for my cheese.” He gently bit her earlobe.

She giggled. “And I thought I’d been so clever about it.”

His hand trailed down the braid, tugging her head back gently so her eyes met his. “You’re clever, alright, and extremely dangerous.”

“Clever and dangerous. Sounds like you’re outmatched.”

He released her braid and trailed kisses down her neck. “True, but I’m a pretty determined guy, so I won’t give up. Not until I convince you that I’m crazy about you. And that as much as I love that incredible body of yours…what I really want is all of you.”

She sank her teeth into her bottom lip and drew in a deep breath, her eyes meeting his for a moment then lowering to his chest, where she trailed her fingers through his hair. “Really?”

He lifted her chin, peering deep into those wickedly mysterious green eyes. “Really.”

Her hands were trembling, the bravado he’d seen a moment ago gone. He’d venture that there weren’t many things that scared Jamie Charles. But he could see the fear in her eyes so clearly. She hadn’t just avoided true intimacy, she was terrified of it. All of her rules and the tough-girl image were a ring of fire she’d surrounded herself with to keep everyone out. Only she didn’t realize that it imprisoned her as much as it protected her.

“Why is it so important to you that I stay?” Her lips were pressed into a slight grimace as she searched his face.

“Because you are an amazing woman, and I don’t want to miss a second with you,” he said, his palm pressed to her cheek. “Seeing this gorgeous face, hearing your infectious laugh…I can’t think of a more perfect way to start my day.”

Her gaze softened. A mischievous smirk replaced the wary look there a moment ago. “I’ll stay,” she said, barely able to keep a straight face, “but only because you have fancy cheese and premium cable.”

He laughed, taking her in his arms. Whatever her reason, if Jamie was breaking her sleepover rule for him, he’d make damn sure it was worth it.

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

Jamie may be clever and dangerous, but Miles is pretty damned perceptive. He’s able to read between the lines and he can hear the things Jamie isn’t saying. Most importantly, he cares for her enough to fight his way through the “ring of fire” she actively maintains around her heart to protect it from further damage. He will eventually discover just how deep those wounds go. But for now, they are both content.

Now, it’s time for more goodies–delicious and calorie-free. Visit the authors on the list below to see what yummy treats they have in store for you.

Photo courtesy of Didriks. Some rights reserved.

He was addicted to this girl #MWTease #BadBoysGoneGood

October 29, 2014 by ReeseRyan

Welcome to the Mid Week Halloween Tease!

You’ve been especially good this week, so you deserve a reward. No tricks. Just treats. (If you’ve been naughty, rest assured, one or more of the authors on the list below has a character who is fully prepared to dish out a delicious punishment for you. So you’re in the right place, too.) Here are some mid week goodies that won’t rot your teeth or go directly to your hips, thanks to Sandra Bunino, host of the Mid Week Tease. Last week, Miles and Jamie finally took their relationship behind closed doors with a bit of foreplay. But now Miles is ready to show her exactly how much she means to him.

<===Love Me Not Excerpt===>

Miles gathered her in his arms and they tumbled back on the bed. He crushed his mouth to hers, devouring it with hot, hungry kisses. Gripping his shaft—stretched tight and aching with his need for her—his eyes locked with hers. Body trembling, he shifted his hips forward, slowly entering her. Her soft gasp and the sensation of being surrounded by her wet heat sent his pulse racing. A low rumble vibrated in his chest and his muscles tensed. Her body opened to him, allowing him to penetrate deeper.

She whimpered and gripped the bedding, her eyes wild. Something in her gaze stoked the fire low in his belly, need spiraling through every inch of his body. A shiver ran the length of his spine. He swallowed hard then licked his lips. His biceps bulged as he supported his weight above her and stroked slowly, methodically, bringing her closer.

She felt so fucking good. The erotic dreams he’d succumbed to—imagining what it would feel like to finally be inside her—paled in comparison to the reality. He could get used to having Jamie Charles in his bed. Ravaging her voluptuous body. The woman was as addictive as cocaine and probably twice as dangerous. Still, he couldn’t resist her and had no desire to.

Her walls tightened around his shaft. An intense wave of pleasure snaked its way up through his body, bringing him close to the edge. Her eyes lit up and the corner of her mouth curled. Her fingers digging into his back, she pulled him in deeper. She enjoyed the control she had over him. But he wasn’t done yet. Not until he’d completely satisfied her, until she was begging him to stop. He sucked in a deep breath and focused, despite his trembling limbs and the thumping of his heartbeat.

Without breaking the rhythm of his thrust, he reached his fingers down between them and found the slick bud. She shivered, sputtering something unintelligible as he accelerated the speed and pressure of his stroke.

Now they were both grunting, muttering and exclaiming expletives with the sweetest pleasure. Her entire body shuddered and her walls spasmed, clenching around him. She grabbed his hand, an unspoken plea for mercy. He could finally let go. A few more strokes was all it took. He came hard, with an intensity that rocked his entire body.

Miles collapsed on the bed next to her, kissing the side of her face, their bodies beaded with sweat. It was official. He was addicted to this girl, and he had no plans of letting her go.

<===END OF EXCERPT===>

Miles is falling hard for Jamie. Despite her resistance, Jamie is falling for him, too. But with all of the baggage in her past, there’s no way she’ll go easily.

As you can see, I don’t do scary, but a several of the authors on the list today do. So, get your goody bags and your naughtiest costume. It’s time to make the rounds to see what the other Teasers are offering.

Smooches!