The Entertainer Read online

  The Entertainer

  By

  Trinity Marlow

  Copyright © 2011 by Trinity Marlow

  TrinityMarlow.com

  This story is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

  All rights reserved.

  No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without permission in writing from Trinity Marlow.

  Cover art by Heidi Sutherlin

  My Creative Pursuits

  Edited by Carol R. Ward

  [email protected]

  Table of Contents

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 1

  Heat rose in Brynn's cheeks as she caught a glimpse of smooth, sculpted male torso peeking out from behind red velvet and white faux fur. Slim hips undulated around the stage to a primal beat while twenty women frantically waved dollar bills at the entertainment for her best friend April's bachelor party. Sexy Santa wasn't like any Santa Brynn had ever seen, and as he shrugged the big coat off his shoulders to reveal the well-muscled chest beneath, she looked away, embarrassed. Her late mother's voice flitted through her head even as she snuck another peek.

  Nice girls don't ogle men, dear. And gentlemen don't take their clothes off for money.

  Santa obviously wasn't a gentleman. He was playing with his green suspenders now, pulling them out and slipping them on and off his sculpted shoulders. He must work out every day, she thought, taking another tiny sip of the margarita one of the girls had bought her. Mother wouldn't approve of her drinking, but she always felt a delicious thrill when she did something Mother wouldn't like. Of course it was always followed by a healthy dose of guilt.

  She stared, mesmerized as he unclasped the suspenders and swung them over his head, tossing them into the crowd. The volume rose as the girls all scrambled to catch them, and Brynn wondered if they'd be as excited to catch April's bouquet.

  A sudden hush made her frown, looking back up to the stage. He wasn't there - where had he gone? She started to rise, pulling her cell phone out of her purse. She hadn't paid good money for Sexy Santa to just disappear before the show was over.

  Then the crowd parted and there he was, making his way toward her with a grin on his half-hidden lips. She couldn't really distinguish any of his features, obscured behind a fluffy white beard. A jaunty red and white cap hid all but a few wisps of his dark brown hair. His eyes were emerald and her gaze locked with his as he danced into her personal space. Too close.

  She took a step back, but he followed. There was something about the way he held himself, the confidence in every movement that shook Brynn to her core. The back of her knees hit the chair and she wobbled, gratefully taking his hand to regain her balance. But he pulled her forward instead of letting her go. She resisted, her face flaming with embarrassment as everyone stared. She shook her head, pulling out of his grasp even as she fought the desire to go with him.

  Disappointment flashed briefly in his eyes before he turned back to the crowd. April was pushed forward and he ground his hips close to hers before leading her up onto the stage. Brynn drifted back further into the darkness, leaning up against the far wall. She watched him snap off those pants in a quick motion leaving only an upside-down Santa's hat covering his Christmas package. He gyrated over April's lap as she sat in a chair, his tight buns shimmying and the white pom-pom at the tip of his hat shaking wildly.

  Brynn shifted, uncomfortably warm as she watched April shake her shoulders and laugh. Friends since grade school, they'd been through everything together from first kisses to the prom and college to careers. April had always been the wild one, grabbing life with both hands even when it didn't work out the way she wanted it to. Brynn had always been the quiet, serious type, and had bailed April out on more than one occasion. When April announced her engagement, Brynn had agreed to be the maid of honor and vowed to throw her friend the best bachelorette party ever.

  Calling and making arrangements for a stripper to work the week before Christmas had been difficult, to say the least, but she'd been proud of herself for getting it done. Now as she watched Santa grinding on the bride's lap, she shook her head. She'd always been just the tiniest bit jealous of her friend's ease with men, and couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have all that male attention focused solely on her.

  The music faded away, signaling the end of the last set. Groans filled the room as Santa picked up his clothes and disappeared behind the curtain at the back of the stage. The room felt strangely empty without him, and she briefly considered offering him more money to stay. He didn't come cheap though, and after noting that it was well past midnight already, she decided against it. It was time to start getting people home. She stepped outside the large room and flipped open her phone to key in the limo driver's number. Just as the call connected, a tall, well-built man in tight jeans and a leather jacket approached, familiar emerald eyes sparkling.

  "Um, this is Brynn. We're ready to go," she stammered into the phone. At the driver's acknowledgment she hung up, and pretending not to see the stripper, she turned back to the main door. In a swift, obvious move, he stepped wide to block her path, a wide grin on his lips.

  "Why are you afraid of me?" he asked, his voice low and smooth. The timbre made her melt inside, even as she felt her face flame red with embarrassment. He moved closer, forcing her to back away until she felt the wall at her shoulders. He braced an arm above her, eyes twinkling with mischief as he waited.

  She tried to collect her thoughts, but they refused to cooperate. "I'm not...um...I mean..." He was so close, the heat from his body searing through her clothes and scrambling what was left of her brain. All she could focus on was how those lips would feel if he trailed them down her neck.

  The door opened behind him and Brynn knew she was going to die of embarrassment when the women came out in a group, April spotting her immediately. The wicked grin on her best friend's face told her two things - that April was past drunk, and that this was officially going to be the worst night of her life.

  "Wow Brynn, if I'd known you had a thing for strippers I'd have bought one for you a long time ago." The crowd laughed, some of the women waving bills in the air.

  Brynn cringed. It was one thing to give her a hard time, but to talk about this man like a commodity? "I'm sorry about that," she said quietly, avoiding his eyes. "When she's drunk..."

  He hooked a finger under her chin, raising her face a fraction so he could look into her eyes. "It's okay. Comes with the job." He smiled. "It got you talking to me too, so it was worth it."

  April bumped her shoulder against his, jostling them both before holding out a pile crumpled cash. "How much for one kiss?" she asked loudly, as wolf whistles and jeers continued behind her.

  "This one's on the house," he said, turning to Brynn with a wink. Then his lips were on hers, soft and moist, his tongue tracing the seam of her mouth. She tentatively pressed back, though she didn't have a clue what she was doing, and when he pulled away she dropped her gaze to the floor, mortified. He traced her jaw with two fingers and bent close to her ear. "So sweet," he whispered, dragging his fingers down her neck. "Let me take you home - no strings attached. You don't belong with this group."

  She glanced over his shoulder and knew if she stayed she'd never hear the end of it. They had a limo, so no one was driving, and she really didn't want to fend off all the raunchy comments and innuendos that were sure to follow
if he just left.

  "Okay," she said, before she could change her mind. "Get me out of here."

  He straightened, shooting her a devastating grin before grabbing her hand in his and turning to April. "I'm kidnapping your friend," he said, loudly enough that the whole room heard. Brynn was surprised when April frowned, shaking her head.

  "I don't think sho," she slurred, swaying on her heels. "You don't know him, Brynn. He could be a murderer or something."

  Brynn shook her head. "It's okay. I did a full back-ground check before I hired him. He's fine. Besides, he's just going to..." His grip on her hand increased and she fell silent, wondering what she'd said.

  "I promise you'll get her back safe and sound tomorrow morning," he said, tugging her toward the door. "Tonight, she's all mine."

  * * *

  Brynn glanced at her rescuer as he drove the classic black Camero out of the parking lot. Sam Ellis was his name, she remembered from the contract she'd had him sign. She hadn't been able to watch the auditions herself, so she'd had the other two bridesmaids choose and then she'd paid for a background check before finalizing the deal by phone. Tonight was the first time she'd seen him and her lips curved up in a little grin. He'd been a good choice, in more ways than one.

  "You're thinking too hard."

  Brynn jumped at his teasing comment, feeling the heat rise in her cheeks again. "I...um...thank you," she said, shivering as his fingers settled on her thigh.

  He chuckled, the smooth sound making her feel things in places she probably shouldn't. "For what?"

  "For getting me out of there. And...well, that's it." She looked out the window, licking her lips. Had she really almost thanked him for kissing her? Maybe he hadn't noticed.

  "And what?" He stroked her leg, moving his hand briefly to shift into another gear, then putting it back, higher this time. "Come on...don't be shy..."

  Damn. She licked her lips again. Maybe...no. She couldn't ask him. He'd never believe her anyway - no one ever did. But he seemed to like her. Maybe if he didn't know...

  She turned to face him, grateful for the darkness though she kept her gaze lowered. "And for kissing me. It's...uh, been a long time."

  "It was my pleasure, really," he said. She looked up to find him still watching the road, a big grin on his face. "I'd be happy to repeat that particular favor if you want." He pulled into a driveway and turned off the ignition. "Are you going to ask me in?"

  Disoriented, she frowned, staring out the windshield at her little house. "How did you know where I live?" Suddenly wary, she reached for the door handle. He put both hands up, laughing.

  "Hey, don't freak out. Your friend slipped me your address just before we left. Said something about how you'd better be home when she called later. So here we are. I can leave if you want, no problem." He lowered his hands, reaching for the ignition key.

  Brynn reminded herself to breathe. "No, please. I'm sorry." She reached over to place a hand on his arm, the simple touch sending her pulse racing again. "I--I'd like it if you stayed a while."

  He removed the keys and stowed them in a pocket, flashing her that sexy smile again. She smiled back and got out of the car, digging in her purse for her keys as he came around the car to join her. He must have noticed her hands were shaking because he reached out to take the keys from her. "Relax," he said, circling her waist with his other arm and propelling her toward the front door. "We aren't going to do anything you don't want to. You're in control tonight."

  She wobbled a little on her heels, leaning into his heat as he helped her up the stairs and unlocked her door. They went inside and she flipped the light switch on, illuminating the living room in soft lamplight. This was never going to work. She couldn't possibly seduce a man whose business was seduction. Maybe the direct approach would be best. If he said no, he could just leave and at least it would be quick. She took a deep breath, letting it out slowly as she turned to face him.

  "What if I want you to be in control?"

  Chapter 2

  "I'm not really that kind of guy," Sam said, taking one step back and putting his hands in his the pockets of his jeans. "I mean, I'll tie you up if you want, but I'm not--"

  "Oh - no!" Brynn held a hand out, her face burning. "I didn't mean...I don't want...oh hell. This was a bad idea..." She turned away, mortified. This was exactly why she was in her current situation, her inability to ask for what she wanted. She'd finally found the courage only to botch the job and now the hottest-looking prospect in months would turn and walk out the door. Once again she'd be left with a bottle of wine and her vibrator to salvage what was left of the night.

  Gentle hands curled over her shoulders, kneading the tension away. "It's okay," Sam said, pulling her back to his chest and crossing his arms around her. "Why don't we start over. What is it you want me to do, exactly? Don't be shy." He stroked long fingers down the side of her neck, the motion soothing.

  She relaxed into his embrace and sighed. It was now or never. "I want you to teach me about sex," she blurted, thankful she didn't have to face him. His grip loosened slightly.

  "Are you a virgin?" The tone of his question as he breathed it in her ear warned her that any answer other than 'no' would be unacceptable. But she already knew that. The last guy she'd told had nearly tripped over her coffee table on his way out the door.

  She shook her head. "No, of course not. I just don't have much experience and I want...well, I just don't know what makes it...good, I guess."

  Sam chuckled in her ear, his arms tightening around her again. "If sex is just 'good', you're doing it wrong, sweetheart." His right hand moved lower to skim her left breast, his middle finger circling her pebbled nipple as his lips nibbled at the spot where her shoulder and neck met. She shivered, her head falling back on his shoulder as he moved his other hand to play with her other breast. She wasn't sure what to do with her arms - they seemed to be in the way.

  Apparently sensing her quandary, Sam grasped her wrists, raising them behind her head to his neck and then lowering his own to her rib cage. Instinctively she ran her fingers through his hair, caressed his neck as he kissed his way across the top of her shoulder. His fingers found their way under the hem of her shirt to play against her bare skin sending warm impulses through her body and down between her legs. A whimper escaped her lips and she clamped them shut, tensing as he slipped one hand into the waistband of her jeans.

  "What's wrong?" he murmured, withdrawing and putting his hands on her hips. "If you're uncomfortable with this..." He held her away and for a moment she thought he might leave. Brynn turned to face him, relieved at the kind smile on his lips.

  "Nothing's wrong," she said, forcing herself to look into his eyes. "I just don't really know what to do." She gave a nervous laugh. "This is so stupid. I'm sorry. I--"

  "You're thinking too much." Sam took her hand and pulled her forward. "Let's try something different." He cupped the side of her face with his palm and before she could move he leaned in to cover her lips with his own.

  * * *

  Whoa. Brynn couldn't hold back another soft whimper. His lips were so soft, so...demanding. Her eyes fluttered closed, her hands moving up around his neck of their own accord. His tongue pushed past her lips, plundering her mouth and she met it with her own, instinct taking over. She'd been kissed before, even with tongue, but none had ever been like this. Warmth infused her whole body and when he pulled back, she leaned toward him, her cheeks heating when she realized what she'd done.

  "Open your eyes," Sam said, his voice soft. She forced them open, his gentle smile easing some of her embarrassment. "Better?"

  She nodded, afraid to speak lest she break the spell. He ran his fingers over one side of her neck, each stroke sending a shimmer of pleasure through her skin. He leaned down, kissing a spot just under her ear. "Do you think we might be more comfortable in the bedroom?" His hot whisper against her skin sent a rush of liquid heat between her legs and her knees nearly gave out.

  "Yesss..."
she hissed, taking in a sharp breath as two fingers lightly pinched one of her nipples.

  Sam chuckled into her ear, rubbing the underside of her breast with his fingers before he stepped back, severing all contact. She reached for him, but he evaded her grasp. She looked up at him, confused at his knowing grin. "Sorry sweetheart, but you're going to have to give me directions, and I suspect you can't do that if I'm touching you."

  Her face flamed and she wished she hadn't turned on the light as she pointed to the hall. "Uh...last door on the right. I think I'll just get a quick glass of water..."

  He chuckled, grabbing her hand. "Oh no you don't. Don't go thinking again." He pulled her in for a quick kiss, then led her down the hall to her room. She expected him to turn on the lights but he didn't. Instead he simply shut the door, put his hands on her hips and pressed kisses down the side of her neck.

  "Oh god," she breathed, tilting her head to allow him better access. "That feels so good."

  He pushed her shirt up over her breasts, leaned back and pulled it off over her head. The darkness provided her courage and as he licked and suckled his way down her chest, she found the hem of his shirt and skimmed it up his body, her fingers exploring his rib cage along the way. He leaned back long enough to pull it over his head and then planted a long, searing kiss on her mouth as he walked her backwards to the bed. Her knees hit the edge and she didn't resist, falling horizontal as he came down over her.

  Running her fingers through his hair she arched up as he laved at a hard nipple. The action sent electrical impulses straight down to her core, and she squirmed, her clit begging for attention. As if he could read her mind, he reached between them and pressed a finger against her heat, fanning the flames higher.

  "More. Please." She wiggled against him, frustrated by the barrier of her jeans and panties. Then the pressure was gone, and she nearly cried out in frustration.