Trusting Jack Read online

  Before he left, Chris sought out Jack. He offered his hand. “It was great meeting you.”

  “Likewise.” Jack clasped his hand. “Emma has great taste in friends.”

  “Since you brought up her name…I just want to thank you. She’s acting more like the Emma I used to know. I think you’re a big part of the reason.”

  “She’s told me a little of her ex-husband.”

  Chris’s eyes darkened. “That son of a bitch conned her into marriage, talked her into believing she wasn’t good enough for him, and then cheated on her. I hate him.”

  “With good reason, it sounds like. I can give you my word I won’t treat Emma that way.”

  “I believe you, especially since I approve of the way you handled her last night. And that’s not my business,” he laughed and held up a hand. “My Emma’s a grown girl. But I do want to say this,” he continued. “Emma doesn’t give herself lightly. I don’t want her hurt.”

  “I care for her. A great deal, actually.”

  “Then we’re good.” They shook hands again and Chris left for the airport.

  A few hours later, Jack found Emma studying a sheaf of papers. She looked up and scrambled to her feet. She blushed.

  “Ahh…I’m sorry about last night.”

  Jack shook his head and cupped her cheek. “I’m not,” he replied.

  “I’m not in the habit of getting sloppy drunk and throwing myself at men.”

  “I thank God for that, or else I’d have to go about defending your dubious honor.”

  Emma finally smiled. “Rumor says Norah will have a couple of weeks off while y’all shoot bloody battle scenes.”

  “Yes, and Edward III will have Mortimer executed. Crimes against the kingdom and what not. I’ll miss you.”

  “You’ll be too busy to miss me.”

  “The premier for Float Away will be just after we’re finished with that. I’d like you to come with me.”

  Emma’s eyes grew wide. “I’ve never been to a premier.”

  “Then say yes. The premier will be held at the O2 arena, and the after party at a club nearby. And afterwards, we can have our own private after party.” Jack’s voice deepened with promise. “And I can guarantee I’ll take complete advantage of you then.”

  Emma felt a surge of desire at the thought. “That sounds absolutely delightful. I’d love to go to the premier with you.”

  ***

  “I’m so excited.” Emma gave a little sigh. I never thought I’d be going to a movie premiere. I remember Gala of Fools. I watched you walk the red carpet and thought how glamorous it all looked.”

  Norah glanced up from packing an overnight bag. “Do you want more than just being an assistant, Emma? Do you want to act?”

  “Oh, no!” Emma laughed. “I most definitely do not. I love working for you, and that’s enough for me.” She turned to Norah and continued, “But this is so much fun. Wearing fabulous clothes and walking on the arm of a sexy man.”

  Norah smiled. “Jack is sexy,” she agreed. “And you look beautiful.”

  Emma turned a slow circle and studied her reflection again in the full length mirror. She’d chosen a simple black silk floor length gown with cap sleeves. The neckline was low, and her breasts rose temptingly over it. Her dark brown hair was swept up and anchored by crystal studded hair pins.

  She’d kept her make-up simple as well. She slicked a final coat of ruby colored gloss over her full lips and smiled at ruby polish on her newly manicured hands. Her eyes sparkled as she clasped a necklace around her neck.

  “Thank you for letting me borrow your pearls.”

  “It’s nothing. You’ll have to tell me everything when I get back. Since Richard’s part of filming is over, and I have a couple of days off, we’re going to stay locked in a hotel room having wild sex after we leave the premier.” She’d never been shy about being seen with lovers. “I imagine you and Jack will be doing that, as well.” Norah waggled her eyebrows suggestively. “You’ll have to tell me all about that, too.”

  Emma giggled as the doorbell rang. “You’re impossible,” she told her as they descended the stairs together.

  Norah opened the door and found Jack outside. “You look dashing. And I’m going to be late if I don’t get dressed.” She turned and went back upstairs.

  Jack stepped into the house and gazed at

  Emma. “You look absolutely stunning.”

  “Thank you. And you, sir, look…dangerous,” she decided,” and sexy with all that black on and your hair tied back.” She smiled as he drew closer. She pressed a kiss on his lips. “You should wear suits more often.”

  “I will for you. But the hair has to go as soon as possible. I only grew it out for the role. It gets in my way.” He smiled when Emma laughed. “I’ve brought you a gift,” he told her. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a flat black box. He flicked it open, and Emma’s eyes widened.

  “Oh, Jack,” she breathed. “It’s beautiful.”

  Jack lifted the white gold infinity necklace while Emma unclasped the pearls. She turned and Jack slipped the necklace around her throat. His fingers lingered on her soft skin as he fastened the clasp. His breath was warm on her neck.

  “I booked a suite for us…if you’re ready, Emma.”

  She turned and looked into his eyes. “I’m ready,” she told him. “In fact,” she brushed her lips against his again, “I can hardly wait.” She locked the door behind her when they left.

  The limo pulled up to the O2 arena and Emma stared at the flashing camera lights and people walking the carpet. There were fans lined up and down, snapping pictures and screaming for autographs. She clutched Jack’s hand as the driver came around to open their door.

  “Nervous?” he asked her.

  “A bit,” she replied. “I’ve seen it on TV, of course, but it looks so different in person.”

  “It’s not so bad. Or maybe I’ve grown accustomed to it. Either way, just smile for the cameras and say you enjoyed the movie--even if it’s shit.”

  Emma laughed as she stepped out. She took Jack’s arm and they started towards the entrance. Flash bulbs went off, TV cameras rolled, and people began crowding around them, asking questions. Jack paused and answered several.

  “Jack, we hear She-Wolf should be wrapping up on schedule. Do you have any other projects lined up?”

  “I’m considering some offers.”

  “It’s your first time working with Thomas Cullam. How do you feel about him?”

  “Mr. Cullam is a very talented director; I’m enjoying working with him.”

  Jack and Emma continued to smile and pose for pictures, and he signed a few autographs, until they reached the doors and slipped inside.

  ***

  “Are you enjoying yourself?” Jack murmured as they sipped champagne at the after party.

  “Immensely.” Emma smiled up at him. “I even enjoyed the movie.”

  “So did I, but I’ll be glad when we can slip away.”

  They mingled with the others, and Emma felt

  herself glow with happiness. She enjoyed working for

  Norah, wouldn’t have traded it for stardom for herself,

  but it was just so wonderful to be with the stars she saw

  tonight.

  She was keeping a running record in her mind, of whom she saw and who was wearing what, because she knew her mother and Chris would want a detailed report. She gave Thomas a huge grin when they made their way to him.

  “It was wonderful,” she told him. “You’re wonderful.”

  “Thank you.” He accepted her hug and beamed. “I’m proud of it, think it’s my best one to date.”

  “She-Wolf will be better,” Jack laughed as he pumped his hand. “And we’ll all be here again.”

  “From your lips to God’s ears. I’m so glad you came tonight. Emma, you look great.”

  “Thanks. The O2 was amazing, the movie was beyond wonderful. This club, the party? This is incredible.”

>   “First premier, huh?” Thomas grinned. “They are fun. If you promise to give me great reviews, I’ll get you into all the ones you want.”

  Emma laughed with him and looked at Jack. He had straightened and stiffened, his blue eyes frosting over, as he watched a bombshell blond in an extremely low cut gown make her way towards them.

  “Well, well,” Thomas muttered. “Sarah Reed, in the flesh. Watch yourself,” he warned Emma in a low whisper. “I’ve worked with her. She’s nasty when she doesn’t get her way.” He squeezed her arm and walked away.

  “Hello, Jack. It’s nice to see you.” Sarah walked up to him and kissed him on the cheek.

  Jack stiffened even more. “Sarah,” he coolly greeted her. “Emma, this is Sarah Reed.”

  Sarah’s doe brown eyes looked Emma up and down, and then dismissed her. “I’ve missed you,” she told Jack in her breathy voice and placed a proprietary hand on his arm.

  “I’m afraid I can’t say the same,” he replied curtly. He stepped away from her and closer to Emma.

  Sarah pouted and tucked her honey blond hair behind her ear. She looked at Emma again. “Our Jack looks wonderful tonight, doesn’t he?”

  “He does,” she agreed even though she bristled inwardly as Sarah’s use of our. “You’re dress is very pretty,” she told her in an attempt to change the subject.

  Sarah ran her hand along the deep red gown. “And yours is delightfully…simple. Tell me—Emma, isn’t it?” At Emma’s slight nod, she continued. “Are you in theater or film? I’m afraid I don’t recognize your name.”

  “Neither,” Emma told her. “I’m a personal assistant.”

  “An assistant,” she repeated and laughed softly. “Oh, Jack, I can’t believe you brought an assistant to a premier when I was available.”

  Jack kept a smile on his face so they wouldn’t attract any undue attention. “My taste is improving. C’mon, Emma, we’ll leave now.” Jack took Emma’s hand and they walked away without a backwards glance.

  Sarah watched them leave with a frown on her face and jealously in her eyes.

  Chapter 10

  Emma was quiet at they made their way to the hotel. Her hands were shaking.

  “Changing you mind?” Jack asked quietly.

  “No,” she replied. I want to be with you. It’s just…” her voice trailed off and she looked away.

  “Just what?”

  She looked back at him and bit her lip. “She’s so pretty. Sarah,” she explained. “You were with her for a long time; you’ve seen her naked a thousand times. Probably lots of other women, too.”

  Jack gave a startled laugh. “What’s all that got to do with this?”

  “I’m scared,” she admitted in a small voice. “What if you don’t like my body, what if I don’t make you happy? I’ve only…well, I don’t have a lot of experience.”

  “Darling,” Jack’s voice softened and he tilted her chin up so that he was staring directly into her eyes. “I’ve seen you half naked before, remember?” He grinned when Emma blushed. “I liked what I saw then, and I’m damned eager to see the rest.”

  The limo stopped at the hotel and Jack retrieved the room key. He kept Emma’s hand in his as he opened the door and led her inside.

  She caught her breath in wonder. The room was bathed in candlelight, and there were flowers everywhere, softly scenting the air. Champagne was chilling on a small side table. Emma smiled, and then noticed one of her travel bags on a chair. “What’s that?” she asked.

  “I asked Norah to pack a small bag for you. I thought you might want a change of clothes.”

  “How clever of you. Jack…the room, the candles and flowers, the champagne…it’s all so romantic. Like a dream.”

  “Would you like me to pour you a glass?”

  It’s now or never, Emma thought, standing completely still. “After,” she whispered.

  Jack stepped forward and took her hand. He raised it to his lips and placed a kiss over the racing pulse at her wrist. He pulled her closer and dropped a heated kiss on her shoulder as his hands unfastened the zipper of her dress.

  It slid to the floor with a silken hiss and Emma stepped out of the black puddle. His eyes took in the black lace covering her breasts and the black lace riding low on her stomach and high on her hips. Her stockings stopped at her thighs and her legs trembled slightly in the heels she still wore.

  “You’re delectable.” His gaze was molten, and his voice was seductively low. “I want to taste you. All over.” He cupped her face and his thumbs traced her cheekbones. “Starting with your mouth. It’s so soft and sweet. Your lips were made to be kissed, Emma.”

  He brushed her mouth with his once, twice, before claiming a long, slow kiss that left her breathless. He buried his hands in her hair and the pins scattered across the floor. Her hair tumbled down like a waterfall.

  “You’re so beautiful,” he whispered. He took her lips again, and trailed his hands down her arms. Lightly pinning them behind her back, he feathered kisses down her neck.

  Emma’s head fell back and she sighed with

  pleasure. He nuzzled her and worked his way back up

  to her mouth. His tongue delved between her

  welcoming lips and she matched his fire with her own.

  Jack released her arms and cupped her breasts. He lowered his head and kissed her through the lace. He flicked the hook open and her breasts spilled out into his waiting hands. “So beautiful,” he said again and drew her into his mouth.

  He gently circled her nipple with his tongue. Emma threaded her fingers through his hair and urged him closer. He transferred his attention to the other breast and rasped his lips over her. Emma whimpered and felt heat pool low in her belly.

  Jack knelt and picked up Emma’s foot. He slipped her shoe off and ran his hand slowly up her leg to where her stocking met her thigh. He placed a soft kiss there and peeled away the material. He repeated the actions on her other leg.

  Emma grasped his shoulders when he stood. She slowly unbuttoned his shirt and he shrugged out of it. She kissed his chest, his neck, his mouth. Her hand reached lower and she felt him, hard as iron, through his trousers. His eyes darkened with passion.

  Jack scooped her into his arms and carried her to the bed. He lay her down gently and removed the rest of his clothes. Emma watched him and, when he joined her, she took him in her hand, stroked him again, enjoying the smooth hard length of him.

  He drew a sharp breath. He ran his hands down her legs and hooked his fingers around the waist of the panties she still wore. He pulled them off and trailed his mouth across her stomach and hipbones. He moved his hand over her and found her hot and wet.

  Lust threatened to overcome him and he fought

  the urge to take her fast and hard. He wanted to drive

  Emma crazy first. He slipped two fingers inside her and her hips bowed towards him.

  “Jack,” she breathed. His fingers kept moving, slow and steady, as she whimpered with pleasure.

  “Come for me, Emma.” A strangled breath tore from her lips and he felt her begin to shudder. “Come for me, love.”

  And she did, arching her hips off the bed with a moan. “Jack, please.” Her breathing was ragged. “I need you inside me. Now”

  He pushed her back and covered her body with his. Her legs parted for him. There was only need now, mutual and demanding. They kept their eyes on each other as he entered her.

  She clamped around him like a vise and he struggled to hold on to his control. “God, you’re so tight,” he muttered. “You feel so good.” He began to move, slowly at first, then faster when Emma raised her hips to meet his.

  Together they rocked and Emma’s breath began to quicken. She whispered his name as she moved closer to the edge. He plunged harder and she gave a strangled moan. He watched her eyes glaze and felt her begin to tremble. He shuddered hard once and then fell with her.

  After a few minutes, when his breath had returned to normal, Jack moved and Emma ma
de a sound of protest. “I’m too heavy for you, love,” he told her and shifted her so that her head lay on his chest. “That was incredible.” He kissed her hair.

  Emma raised her face to his. “You’re incredible,” she whispered. Her voice was laced with sleep. Jack smiled and drew her back down. He pulled the sheets over them and held on as they drifted off.

  ***

  Jack slowly opened his eyes. He smiled and stretched when he heard the shower. Last night had been everything he’d imagined and so much more. The water cut off and he stood to wait.

  Emma stepped out of the bathroom and started when she saw Jack grin. “Good morning,” she managed.

  “Yes, it is,” he replied and her smile blossomed. She slipped her arms around his neck and lifted her lips for a kiss. He obliged and set her back. “Are you hungry?”

  “Mmm. A bit,” she told him. “But not for food.”

  Jack cocked a brow. “Oh, really.”

  “Really,” she drawled. She pulled him over to the bed and pushed him down onto it.

  “Gotten over being nervous, have you,” he murmured.

  “The second you touched me.” Emma straddled him and the short robe she wore hitched up.

  Jack snaked a hand under the robe and found her already slick with need. He went rock hard. His hands went higher and he dragged his thumbs across her nipples.

  Emma moaned low in her throat. She lowered herself onto him and smiled when he bucked. He held her hips tight and groaned as Emma rode them both to a panting finish.

  Much later, Jack swallowed the last bite of his sausage and washed it down with coffee. “I’m disappointed that you’ve put on clothes.”

  Emma laughed and bit into a slice of bacon with relish. “Being naked might have scared the room service boy,” she pointed out.

  “Cause him to have sex-filled fantasies, more like,” he returned and made her laugh again. “I suppose it’s time we left.” Jack stood and held out a hand. Emma took it and leaned into his hug when his arms came around her. “It’s back to work tomorrow.”