A Dance with Death Read online

  “Hey, what do you think you’re doing?”

  She admired his chiseled chest and tapered waist. He didn’t sit behind a desk all day. This man produced on the dance floor.

  Isabella slid her hand down between their bodies, and he twitched his cock toward her warmth.

  “You were taking much too long to get to the good stuff, and I think your mouth can be better served elsewhere.”

  She kissed him, long and drawn out, sucking in his air, running her tongue along his teeth. A shock wave of pleasure pulsed through her as he nipped her lower lip. She ground her pussy against his cock.

  “Oh fuck, you feel so damn good.” He gripped her ass, squeezing her hard. “I’m not done with you yet.”

  She scratched his stomach with her fingernails, pushing down his underwear, leaving him naked and standing to attention. Licking her lips, she eyed his glorious cock and tilted her head to the side.

  “Do they call you lefty?”

  “Hey now.” He reached for her. “I’ve never had any complaints.”

  “Who says I’m complaining? He’s quite beautiful.”

  She stroked the silky skin. He closed his eyes, biting his lip. Even better, he wouldn’t see what came next.

  Slow, and with deliberation, she lapped the head, tonguing the slit and deep throating him, sucking as hard as possible.

  “Che, ’Bella. That feels too good.” His words came out in short bursts.

  Continuing to suck him, she moved her hands in a dance of their own, her fingers splayed over his slick skin. His groan drew her attention, and she glanced up and froze.

  His body appeared to flicker, become transparent. She blinked, and he returned in focus.

  Bizarre.

  “Oh, baby. I don’t want you to stop, but I want you to do something better.”

  “Are you sure? We still have all night.”

  He captured her within his strong arms. “Let’s move this into the bedroom.”

  They walked, not breaking the physical connection. Partway there, Raul grabbed for a wooden box on a shelf and winked.

  “Condoms. It’s like manna from Castillo Resorts!”

  With a quickened pace, Raul guided her toward the wall. In sync with his thinking, she ripped the foil package and rolled the condom over his waiting cock, before looping one ankle over his hip.

  The notes formed in his head as he touched her. Not only the sound of them but he could see the respective keys on a piano as they played. When he gripped her hips, he heard C minor, and when he traveled over her curvaceous ass, an E major chord. And those delicious breasts—pure Db major.

  He probed the edge of her sex, and she used her strong thigh muscles to lift, impaling herself on his cock. Cupping her ass, he held her tight, plowing into her wet embrace. She held onto his shoulders, riding out the onslaught.

  Fucking a dancer had its perks. Limber as hell, she wrapped her legs around his waist and held the position long enough to take them both into physical and mental oblivion.

  “Wow,” she said, relaxing. “Twice, and we haven’t even made it to the bed yet.”

  “Beds are overrated. How’s your back? I didn’t get too rough, did I?”

  “I can take that, and a whole lot more. But do you feel like a soak in the hot tub out there?”

  “Hell yeah!” he said.

  “Can we go nude?”

  “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

  He scooped her up and headed for the balcony. Isabella let out a whoop. “Are you going to carry me all night long?”

  “Maybe. You’re so light…easy to pick up and manipulate where I want you.”

  “As if I haven’t heard that one before.”

  Somehow, he managed to open the sliding door. The coolness of the Southern California evening tingled on her bare skin. Steam rose from the hot tub.

  He placed her on the steps and smacked her bottom as she tested the water with her foot.

  “Ouch! Why did you do that?”

  “You’re gorgeous, and I couldn’t help myself. I’ll be right back.”

  With a sigh, she sank into the depths, the water clinging to her body in a warm hug. Just the perfect amount of heat. She dipped her head back, wetting her hair. It would kink up as it dried, but she didn’t care.

  Raul returned, carrying towels, two glasses of champagne with floating raspberries, and a condom. He placed the loot on the side table.

  She raised her eyebrows. “Think you’re going to get lucky again?”

  “Odds are pretty good. Wanna make a bet?”

  “Pretty presumptuous of you.”

  He splashed into the water, overspill sloshing on the cement, and she laughed.

  “Call me confident,” he replied.

  Being with Isabella came so naturally, like he’d known her for so much longer than the few hours they’d had together. Perhaps their common backgrounds, passions, and life within the dance world made them feel even closer. He could envision sharing the various ups and downs with her.

  “Tell me about your latest production,” he said. “What show will you be doing next?”

  Her smile faltered. “I don’t know if I’ll be dancing anymore. The company put me on hiatus.”

  “What?” He straightened, getting serious. “Why?”

  “Change in ownership. I got hurt a few times, and honestly, I want something more.”

  “I can understand that feeling.” After cranking out music videos, Raul wanted to give back to the community he’d come from. “That’s why I started the nonprofit organization, and afterschool program. The popstars help fund the projects. The studio offers at-risk teens an alternative to hanging out on the streets, and potential for the future.”

  “Do they all have dreams of stardom?”

  “Not all the teens are dancers. Some work in the office and learn the behind-the-scenes business.”

  Plus, he’d bought his mami and pop a new home, in a better neighborhood.

  “Have you thought of what else you’d like to do? How about teaching?”

  She wiped a tear, and did a so-so gesture. “That’s a possibility, but I may not be able to earn a living and fuel that desire, too.”

  Could his production company use someone with her talent? They’d talk about it later.

  “I’m sorry for bringing up the subject. I just wanted to know more about your life, outside of tonight.”

  “Can we get back to more of the light banter?” She scooted around the tub, coming to rest on his lap.

  He angled his cock, and like a heat-seeking missile, it nestled into her cleft. He didn’t need any more prep time. Being with her kept him in a state of constant readiness.

  Isabella faced the reality of her future every damn day. Right then, she wanted this hunk of man between her legs. She leaned over the side of the tub and grabbed the condom, praying the hotel provided the right type for liquid extracurricular activities.

  Before she turned around, Raul took the package from her hand, put the condom on, then he took her from behind, doggy style, gripping her hips for leverage.

  She rocked backward, and his cock slammed into her, propelling her forward. Her lover reached around her and stimulated her nipples, causing her to arch into him.

  “Yes, keep going.”

  She angled toward the jets—the pulsating water hit her clit while Raul fucked her. Nothing delicate the third time around. Just pure pleasure. She screamed his name as her orgasm overtook her—the high streaking through her body like the standing ovation of a full house.

  ***

  Small murmurs escaped from Isabella as she slept. She didn’t move, but lay with one arm flung over her forehead and her legs splayed. Not someone used to sharing a bed and cuddling, Raul surmised.

  Why had he resisted dating dancers for so long? Not all of them had to be like his ex, Cristina—the most selfish lover he’d ever had. The first few times they’d been together, he thought it was cute how fast she came, rubbing her clit as sh
e pumped his cock. But after the third time of her rolling over and going to sleep with the excuse she couldn’t exert or be too tired for the performance the next day, it lost its charm. All she’d done was lie there and let him finish.

  No, Isabella seemed to enjoy getting physical, She proved to be quite adventurous, and that knowledge turned him on even more.

  His heart hurt at the thought of the coming morning. Raul feared letting go and falling asleep. He wanted to stay in the here-and now, holding her, and memorizing the murmurs she made. He didn’t know what tomorrow held. The night would be over soon enough. If he went to sleep, what if he never woke? He wanted to cherish every last moment with her.

  Chapter Six

  The jaay-jaay of a blue jay roused Isabella from her sleep. She stretched out, seeking Raul’s warmth, but found an empty space and cold sheets. Her heart thumped. Had he left without saying good-bye? Without waking her? She thought they’d shared something special, but just like that, gone.

  The sheer curtains near the balcony billowed outward, and she shivered, holding the covers against her nakedness. The sounds of birds chirping and waves crashing floated in on the breeze. Wait. That sound woke her. A breeze came in from the open glass door.

  She wrapped in a thick purple velour robe, knotting the tie loosely, and pulled her hair up in a band. If Raul was out there, he’d seen her at her best and worst over the night. She cringed at the memory of informing him of not hiring her. Nearing the balcony, she saw his strong back, tapering down to his narrow waist. The hunch of his wide shoulders gave the impression of grief, as if he’d suffered a great loss. He whistled and tossed some breadcrumbs, left from their dinner last night. Feeding the birds.

  She stood right outside the door, watching him. Should she intrude upon his private moment?

  “I’m sorry, did I wake you?” he asked, without even turning around to confirm her presence.

  “No, I’m usually up before now anyway. I can’t believe I slept in this late.”

  He sat on the outdoor love seat, and patted the cushion next to him.

  “Are we going to get into trouble feeding the wildlife?” she asked, sliding beside him.

  He rested his hand on the inside of her knee. Shivers started at the point of contact and continued upward. Despite making love three times over the evening, one touch and she wanted him again. Time to say good-bye?

  “I don’t think so. They have bird feeders along the walkway. They’re tucked into the trees, more hidden from view, but something tells me the owners, or someone, likes the animals.”

  “Seems like it. How did you sleep?” Isabella asked. An inane question. Of course, he’d say, fine, and then what? Why didn’t she ask what she wanted to: Will we see each other again? What if they ran into each other on a professional level? She would never be able to see him the same way. And forget about watching any of the awards shows or videos he choreographed. Cripes.

  “I didn’t sleep at all. I watched you. Anyone ever tell you how peaceful you look in slumber? You murmur, and your bottom lip quivers every now and then.” He ran the tips of his fingers down the bridge of her nose and her full lower lip. “You even snore a little bit.”

  “Did I? I must have been knocked out. You wore me out. Sorry if I kept you awake.”

  And damn. That was it. She’d proved a poor bed partner. He wouldn’t want to be with her again. The entire setup lasted one night. She should never have come. She should have known she wouldn’t be able to take the evening so lightly, after being paired with a man like Raul, with his complexity and his big heart.

  “Oh, you didn’t keep me up.” He turned to gaze out at the turbulent ocean. “I had the oddest feeling if I fell asleep, I might never wake up. And I might never see you again. So I cherished every moment.”

  Hope glimmered through her psyche. “You did? You would?”

  “I gotta be honest with you, Bella, and I may sound crazy, but part of me feels like I shouldn’t be here at all. It’s like my body and soul are split, and I’m in two places at once.”

  “Where else do you have to be?” And here comes the letdown. He liked her. He really did. But right then wasn’t the right time. He had some other obligation he had to take care of, despite all they had shared.

  “While I didn’t sleep, I kinda drifted. On nights like these I lie awake and visualize dance steps, bodies moving in motion. Oh, the wondrous things I could choreograph for you, given the chance.”

  His voice drifted off, and she stayed quiet, waiting for him to continue and hoping for the best.

  He weighed telling her the truth. Being with her felt like an out-of-body experience. Not that he’d dreamt her, but he wasn’t really there. How could they have shared so much, and it not be real? Wouldn’t his body disintegrate, or something?

  Out of the corner of his eye, he glanced at her. She’d swept her hair up in a sloppy ponytail, some wisps already falling around her face. The long, graceful neck. How he loved kissing right behind her ears. And her smell. He could soak in the orange and vanilla scents all day.

  He had to stop wasting time. To take a chance on this, on them, he needed to do it right then.

  “The last thing I remember before coming here was walking down my stairs at home, and then something happened. I tripped, twisted, tumbling…and Ranger, my dog, was licking my face.”

  “Oh my goodness, Raul. Are you all right? I mean, did anything we did last night hurt you more? I had no idea you were injured.”

  “No. Yes. That’s not what I meant. It’s the last thing I remember, before appearing here. I don’t remember getting up, or driving here. I was there, and then here.”

  “You blacked out?” She rested her delicate hand on his arm. So real and reassuring. Maybe he needed an extended vacation. He sounded insane, or worse. Talk about a cop-out: Hey, we had a great time, but I think you’re in my imagination. If I live, can I see you again?

  “Maybe. But I’m not sure I ever woke up.”

  Next to him, she stilled, searching his expression. Hell. He wiped his face.

  “It’s not a joke. I know it sounds weird. I’m not one for all that metaphysical stuff. You know, psychic abilities and all, but I don’t know how to explain it.”

  “Raul, if you don’t want to see me again, I understand.”

  She stood up, and he grabbed for her

  “That’s the thing. I do want to see you again. More than anything. We could have had so much more time together, if our paths had crossed sooner.”

  “So what are you saying? Because right now, I’m not feeling very positive.”

  He sighed, letting out his frustrations. “Okay, so can you do me a favor?”

  Chapter Seven

  Isabella dashed up the walkway, scanning the flowerbeds for the colored rock. There, hidden under some overgrown leaves. As she picked it up, a few bugs crawled away. She brushed off the excess dirt and slid open the hidden panel. The key plopped into her hand with a sort of finality. She climbed the last few steps to the front door and hesitated. Before she left the resort, he’d instructed her on how to get into the house, and handle his dog. But, what if she had it all wrong? What if she was crazy and none of the events of the past day had happened? She inspected the front yard. Everything appeared as Raul had described.

  With a sudden burst of courage, she knocked on the door. A dog barked, loud and warning. After waiting a few beats, she stuck the key in the lock and shut her eyes. Here goes nothing.

  Click. The door swung inward.

  Grrrr. A large shepherd growled. Raul’s massive security dog stood over a body lying limp on the staircase. Raul.

  “It’s all right, Ranger. It’s all right,” she cooed, taking a slow step inside. She struggled to remember the term to stand down. He didn’t appear to be in attack mode, only worried about his master.

  Praising his protection, she said, “Zei brav.” Then, she created a fist and curled her arm toward her chest. “Sitz.”

  Ranger sat on
his haunches and tilted his head to the side, watching her.

  She approached him and Raul, keeping an eye on the dog with each step. It wouldn’t do anyone any good if he were to have her for lunch. “Good puppy.” The shepherd smelled her hand and gazed at her with deep, sorrowful eyes. He pushed her with his muzzle, glanced at his master and whined.

  The gentle rise and fall of Raul’s chest reassured Isabella. She stooped, and touched his shoulder.

  “Raul, are you there? Wake up.”

  Nothing. Did she expect him to wake as if by magic? Hmmm. She leaned in, placed a kiss on his dry lips and sat back. Waited. Nope. She wasn’t a once-upon-a-time princess, either.

  Pulling her cell phone out of her purse, she dialed 9-1-1. “Hello, I’d like to report an emergency.”

  The second she hit end, Raul opened his eyes. “Isabella?” he croaked.

  She jumped back at the sound of his voice. “You’re awake!”

  “You came.”

  Ranger nudged between her and his master, and lapped at Raul’s face. Her Latin lover laid a palm on the dog’s snout. “Stop, no more kisses.”

  “I called an ambulance, and it’s on the way. I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to move.”

  Raul touched his forehead. “My head and arm are throbbing.”

  “I expect a fall down the stairs wouldn’t feel very good. Can I get you anything?”

  “Water. In the fridge.”

  A sip of water shouldn’t hurt him. She made her way to the kitchen. Some wilting flowers rested on the counter, still in their plastic packet. Had he meant to bring those to her? Something about the thought saddened her. What if she hadn’t gone? Where would that have left Raul? Dead.

  She opened the refrigerator, taking in the non-bachelor-like supplies. Raul seemed to like to cook, and yogurt and fruit stocked the shelves. Impressive. As she walked back to the entranceway, the sound of sirens echoed. She twisted the cap off the bottle, and held it to his lips.