Disclaimer: I do not own the character of Antoine Laconte. There was no copy write infringement intended. I do however own the other characters in the story. This story takes place approximately two years after the movie. 

Picture by Kimcana.

Rated: MA18+ for sexual content and language

Comments: I wrote this story to show a softer side of Antoine as well as the temper that had previously been portrayed. Call it a look into his mind to show you why he ticks the way he does. If you’re not into romantic endings and mush I suggest you move on.

Josey had heard about her neighbor for weeks before she moved in. Many of the people in the building were under the impression that he had drug ties and such. Josey however heard he was in fact a gigolo. She had yet to see her neighbor but heard movement in his apartment earlier in the day.

She busied herself unpacking her clothes and getting settled into a new home. She had lived in a small town her entire life and was now getting out to spread her wings. All her life she had been too shy to step out on her own. It took everything she had to move across country. She had taken a job with an Internet magazine her friends J.C. and Stacy had started. They were offering to her pay her well and it was a chance to see California.

It was also a chance to get away from her mother. Since the death of her father over a year ago, her mother had changed. She had become increasingly cold towards Josey and her two sisters. She was always critical of Josey growing up, her dress and her appearance, but lately she had become just plan cruel. Leaving her two younger sisters to deal with it was the hardest decision she had ever made.

She had always been close to them and she knew now that she was gone her mother would turn her attention to them. She hoped that her sisters could stand up under the pressure her mother was putting on all of them. Josey missed her father at times like this; his soft voice and tender touch always chased her fears away. She being the oldest was his little Princess, his precious blossom. She missed hearing him call her that.

Josey was pulled from her thoughts when a rumble came up from her tummy. She stopped for a while and ordered pizza for dinner. She was just paying the delivery guy when her neighbor arrived home. She looked at him as he walked past her with a rather well stacked blonde-haired woman on his arm.

He was wearing a fancy gray suit and Italian shoes. He had long dark almost black hair that seemed to fall wildly around his dark features. He had dark brown eyes that looked like they could burn through anything. She couldn’t help notice the fullness of his lower lip, which was edged with a neatly trimmed beard. He was tall, with a lean build hidden under his rather baggy suit.

As he got to the door, he turned to her and looked her up and down. Josey’s face grew hot as he did. She saw a smile touch his lips as if amused by her reaction to him. She tore her eyes away from his and stepped back into her apartment. She closed the door and locked it.

She let out a deep sigh before she walked back to the kitchen to find herself a plate. As she looked out the window, she could see into her neighbor’s apartment. She observed that their kitchens seemed to face each other.

She saw him move past the window to get a bottle of wine but he didn’t get very far. The blonde-haired woman attacked him and he soon carried the young woman off to the bedroom. As Josey sat and ate her pizza, she soon heard moans coming from next door. The woman was especially loud and it made Josey increasingly uncomfortable. She was grateful when it seemed to be over.

As she washed her plate, she thought about him. She had gotten so flustered by him, when he looked at her before. He was good looking she would give him that. His brown eyes and long curly hair were very attractive. His high cheeks bones, with his full lips, and well-trimmed beard was a winning combination. She shook her head.

“What are you thinking?” she asked herself, “He sells his body, for God’s sake.”

Soon she heard the moaning start again. She let out a sigh as she went into the living room and sat down. She turned on the TV for a moment and tried to drown him out. It didn’t work so she went into the bathroom to shower. She turned on the water and stripped her clothes away. She stepped into the shower and let the hot water slide over her body relaxing her. When she closed her eyes she could still see his face, that hint of a smile and it made her blood boil. “How arrogant,” she thought.

When she was done, she stepped out and dried off. It was quiet and Josey decided to enjoy it. She slipped into a long silk nightgown and brushed out her hair. She put her robe on and just then, the phone rang. She picked it up.

“Hello,” she said.

“Hey Josey,” said Stacy, “What’s going on?”

"Not much.”

“Well I just thought I’d let you know I’m e-mailing you your new assignments.”

“Thanks,” said Josey stepping outside, “What a day.”

“What happened?” asked Stacy.

“I saw my neighbor,” she said.

“The gigolo?”

“Yes, and I think he really is gigolo.”

“What makes you think that?”

"I saw him in the hall when the kid delivered my pizza. He came home with a big breasted, blonde bimbo. God he had her screaming like a banshee over there. Twice, that I heard anyway. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got in the shower to drown it out,” said Josey.

“God,” said Stacy, “We’ve got to find out who this guy is. He’d be a great story.”

“Not for me,” said Josey, “It’s bad enough I have to live next to this guy. I do not want to be his friend, or anything else for that matter.”

“It’s just sex,” said Stacy.

"I don’t care. He’s breaking the law.”

"You gonna turn him in?”

“No,” said Josey, “I’m not going to turn him in if he can just tone it down a bit. I don’t want to hear that all night when I’m working on a deadline or something.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” she said, “I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

Josey hung up the phone and looked off her balcony. She took in a deep breath and sighed. She had never seen the ocean before and the smell was wonderful. She hated the feeling that washed over her when sex was brought up. She hated Doug for what he had done to her. She fought back a tear as she looked at the water again. She didn’t know she was being watched.

From inside his apartment he sat in the dark looking out. He had seen her go outside and heard part of her conversation. He hadn’t meant to disturb her evening. He took a slow sip of his drink and felt a twinge in the corner of his mouth. The woman he had been with that night was not a woman he was particularly fond of being with. She was loud and aggressive, not the type of woman he enjoyed but she was a good client.

He looked at his new neighbor as she stood at the railing looking out at the ocean. The breeze blew at her silk robe and caused her light brown hair to dance around her head. He had noticed her blue eyes and the perfect fullness of her lips. She was a striking young thing; she looked almost angelic, not at all like what he had grown accustomed too over the years. He watched as she answered her phone again and could hear her part of the conversation.

“Hello?” she answered. “Hi mom,” she said rolling her eyes. “Yes I’m fine mom, all moved in,” she said. Antoine watched as she dug in her robe pocket. She pulled out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter. “Work’s fine mom. I’ll have my next assignment in a few minutes.”

Antoine watched as she pulled a cigarette from the slender box and lit it up. He could see that the phone call was making her instantly agitated. He watched as she took a long drag off the cigarette holding it in and rolling her eyes at her mother on the other end of the line. He knew how she felt, for his mother caused him the same grief from time to time. She blew the smoke out with a deep sigh as she now paced her deck.

“Mom for God’s sake, I just moved here,” said Josey. “I haven’t had time to meet anyone all right,” she said in a near hiss. “I gotta go, all right,” there was a silence, “Yes mom, goodbye,” she hung up the phone and pretended to throw it into the ocean. “Thousands of miles away and that woman can still piss me off in less then five seconds, damn her!” She tossed the phone onto the lawn chair, “Please never let me turn into a cold heartless, bitch.”

Antoine watched quietly as she stood there finishing her cigarette. She seemed to slowly relax as she looked out at the ocean. She had this lost look on her face, a sort of sadness in her eyes. He found her very intriguing and desirable at that moment. He definitely wanted to get to know her better.

The next day Josey was out on her balcony with her laptop resting on her knees. She had her headset plugged in and was busy working on her next article for Stacy. She looked up just in time to see her neighbor come out onto his balcony. He was wearing a light blue silk robe, his wild mane of hair hanging loose around his dark face. He reached up and pulled it back into a ponytail. He slipped his robe off and was wearing a pair of loose swim trunks underneath it.

Antoine was fully aware that she was watching and that’s what he wanted. He usually used his hot tub naked but if he was going to win this one over he knew he had to be a little subtler. He stepped into the hot tub and sank slowly into the water. He leaned back and closed his brown eyes.

Josey couldn’t take her eyes off him as he disrobed in front of her. He had strong arms and legs, his chest was smooth and muscular as was his stomach. She had never used the word beautiful to describe a man, but for him it fit. She tried to go back to her work but seeing him there in the hot tub was a definite distraction.

He stayed there for a long time before deciding to get out. He was thinking of her, sitting there in her little white shorts, and pink tank top. She was not wearing a bra; he had noticed it right away. She had a full natural bosom which aroused him just thinking about it. Seeing her nipples through the light material had triggered a stir and now it had triggered his erection.

Josey found herself watching him again as he rose from the water. His trunks now wet cling to his body and she quickly took notice of the large bulge between his thighs. He was aroused and she felt herself staring at him. She brought her eyes up and was shocked to find him looking at her. He gave her a soft smile and watched as she instantly blushed and looked away.

“A shy one,” he thought. “Either a virgin or never been properly pleasured.”

He took up his towel and went back inside. He had to get ready for his next client. He hated the idea of going out with yet another brainless bimbo. Antoine used to enjoy being a gigolo, where else could you be paid to do something you liked so much and did so well. Lately though he had felt there was definitely something missing.

Antoine had no problem fulfilling his obligations to his clients; he had never failed to perform. What was starting to bother him was that it had been a long time since he had truly desired a woman. The women he pleasured were attractive and such but he didn’t connect with them. They weren’t anything special they were just warm bodies to meet his lustful needs.

Now this stranger living next to him was drawing his attention. For the first time he thought of pursuing someone not as a client but simply as a woman. She was attractive, with her light brown hair and piercing blue eyes. She seemed to be fairly well built from what he had seen. It was the thought of her watching him that had aroused him in the hot tub. “Damn her for not wearing a bra,” he thought.

He shook his head as he went to his closet. He knew he had to pull himself together and get through another night. He changed his clothes and was soon off for another “Date”.

Josey had indeed been embarrassed to be caught staring at him. She couldn’t help herself there was something about him. It was more than curiosity about the man her neighbors called “The Gigolo”. There was something she saw in his eyes that led her to believe that there was more to the man than met the eye.

Stacy arrived on her doorstep that night with a bottle of wine for a house-warming present. Josey welcomed her in and they opened the wine quickly. She was eager to relax and let the wine do it’s job.

“I found out his name,” said Stacy.

“Who?”

“Your neighbor,” she said, “I actually found a woman who was a client and willing to talk about him.”

“You’re kidding,” said Josey.

“Nope, his name is Antoine Laconte,” said Stacy. “His father is Italian, his mother is French. He moved here when he was eighteen. I don’t know when he started prostituting but he’s been doing it for a while at least. Get this, he charges thirty five hundred and from what I’ve been told he’s worth every penny.”

“Thirty-five hundred dollars?” said Josey, “What does he have a golden schlong?”

“No, but from what I’ve heard he’s very well endowed and quite skilled,” smiled Stacy.

“Well he still needs to keep it down,” she said. “The noise that is,” she said blushing.

That night Josey was lying in bed when she heard Antoine come home. More to the point, she heard a woman groaning in ecstasy, as Antoine no doubt earned every penny of his thirty five hundred. After two rounds, Josey was fed up and pulled on her robe. She went over and knocked on his door. She heard movement and soon the door was yanked open. He was only wearing black silk boxers.

Antoine stood there for a moment taking in the sight of her. She was wearing a pale blue silk robe, and it gave a breathtaking contrast to her suntanned skin. Her sun kissed hair fell in wild deep waves over her shoulders. He met her gaze as her deep blue eyes burned into his own.

“What?” he asked rather rudely. He instantly regretted his tone.

“You may not realize this but I live next door to you. I have had to endure your little passion fest over here late into the night and I’ve had it. If you can’t keep your companions reasonably quiet then I suggest you get a muzzle,” she said looking past him at the blonde stumbling out of his room. “My God,” she muttered.

“Who the hell are you?” asked the blonde-haired woman.

“Shut up and go back to the bedroom,” he said, not taking his eyes off Josey.

“But,”

“Go put your clothes on!” he shouted making even Josey jump.

“Mr. Laconte, I am not someone to tell you how to live your life but I would think you would know how to be a bit more discreet in your “affairs”. I would appreciate it if you could get your “friends” to be a little more thoughtful of those who live around you,” she said. "I would hate to have to call the authorities on you.”

She stood looking at him waiting for a response. He was almost amused by how brazen she was. Only one woman had spoken to him in that tone of voice, his mother. She stood there, her eyes locked on him and he knew she would not leave until she was satisfied.

“You are right,” he said softening his look on her, “I am afraid that some of my “friends” get a bit carried away when they are over. I apologize if I have disrupted your evening, Miss?” Josey stood for a moment dumbstruck by the tenderness in his voice.

“Winters,” she said finally, feeling her heart race in her chest, “Josephine Winters.”

“Josephine,” he repeated softly and held his hand out to her, “It is a pleasure to meet you.” She took his hand and without breaking his gaze he brought it to his lips and kissed it. It sent chills through her. “You have my deepest apologies. I assure you I will try to contain the noise in the future.”

“Thank you,” she said, withdrawing her hand.

She turned and walked back to her own door. As she walked, she could feel his eyes on her. She opened her door without looking back at him and stepped inside quickly closing the door. She slumped against the door and let out a deep sigh. It was the first time she had heard him speak and she thought she would go weak in the knees when he said her name. She heard voices outside her door.

“You son of a bitch!” yelled the woman, “This is the last time I call you.”

“What are you complaining about? You got your money’s worth,” he said.

“Says you. You just wait Antoine; I’ll get you back for this. No one treats me this way,” she said storming off towards the gate.

“Obviously,” he said closing the door. Josey couldn’t help but smile.

The months passed and Antoine kept his word. He took his louder clients to a hotel instead of back to his place. He saw Josey from time to time but she didn’t speak to him very often. He had caught her gaze several times while she was in her kitchen making coffee and such. Occasionally she smiled at him in an effort to keep a peace between them.

One night while she was having a sleepless night Josey sat in the darkness of her living room looking out at the ocean. She heard voices coming from next door. It wasn’t long before Antoine appeared on the balcony with a red haired woman. He was in a robe as was she. Josey watched as they were soon dropping their robes and grabbing each other. Josey watched as Antoine practically attacked the woman. 

He ravaged her breasts with his mouth as his large hands roamed over her body. Josey felt seriously aroused as Antoine touched the woman’s body. He moved and Josey suddenly got a look at Antoine’s naked body. He was fully aroused and Josey stifled a gasp. He was much larger then any man she had ever seen. Now she knew why the women were crying out so.

He took the woman there on a lawn chair as Josey watched. She could feel the heat building between her own legs, and a dull throbbing start. She couldn’t take her eyes off him. His buttocks was rock hard as he thrust into the woman, the muscles in his back and legs straining. She stepped back when she heard it end and she pressed herself against the wall. She would just die if he saw her looking at them. She soon heard them go inside and she quickly went to her room and closed the door.

A short time later, she heard yelling from next door. She bolted from her bed grabbing her robe when she heard glass break. Just as she stepped out the front door Antoine’s door came open and the woman came flying out. She sprawled out on the ground. Josey turned to see Antoine in the doorway; blood was flowing down his face and anger burned in his brown eyes.

“What the hell is wrong with you, you crazy bitch?” he said, “Get the hell out of here before I break your neck.”

“Fuck you Antoine,” she spat, “You’re not the only whore in the world.”

The woman scrambled to her feet and staggered away from them. Josey watched after her and when she was gone, she looked back at Antoine. He lifted his hand to his temple and could feel the blood. He also saw Josey looking at him. She found her voice and spoke.

“Are…are you all right?” she asked.

“Yes!” he snapped making her jump back. She started to turn, “Wait,” he said softening his voice, “I am sorry,” she turned back to him.

“Do you need help?” she asked.

“No,” he said starting to turn. He suddenly felt a bit light headed and he leaned against the doorframe. She went over to him.

“Here,” she said placing his arm around her shoulder, “Let me help you.”

She helped Antoine inside and through the darkness, she found his sofa. She set him down and went to the kitchen. She soon came back with a wet cloth. She wiped the blood from his face and then moved to clean the wound. He winced when she touched him and shot her a look.

“I’m sorry,” she said, trying to be gentle, “It doesn’t look too bad. You’ll need a big band-aid,” she said. “What did she clock you with?” Antoine pointed to the broken vase on the floor. “What did you do to her?” He glared at her.

“So it’s automatically my fault,” he said.

“I’m sorry,” she said lowering her eyes. It confused him, she had been so strong earlier and now she seemed so submissive. He softened his tone.

“She got mad at me because I refused to be her lap dog,” he said.

“Oh,” she said. “I should get going. Are you going to be all right?”

"Yes, I will be fine,” he said in a cold tone. He silently chided himself for being short with her. “Thank you,” he said softer, “For helping me.”

“You’re welcome,” she said, “Sweet dreams.”

Antoine watched as she left his condo. His head was throbbing a bit from the blow he took. He managed to get to his feet and then to his bed. He laid back and closed his eyes thinking of Josey. She had a tender touch, and a soothing voice. His eyes felt heavy and he soon welcomed the sleep but he would not have the sweet dreams she wished him.

Antoine woke with a start, his chest heaving, and sweat covering his body. His eyes focused slowly and he realized he was safe in his home. He flung his leg off the bed and set up. His head throbbed at the quick movement and he cradled his head in his hands. It had been years since he had thought about her. Why now would she come to haunt his dreams?

"Bethany?” he said softly.

Antoine remembered it like yesterday now, the young girl that had stolen his heart. She had come to Italy on a vacation with her family. They had met at the local market and Antoine was instantly taken with her. She had light hair and light features unlike the women of his country. She was sweet, and gentle. Antoine had wanted to marry her but her family left abruptly.

Antoine took what money he had and was determined to follow her to America against his family’s wishes. He had worked every odd job he could to earn the money. Then he met a man who said he could get Antoine to America if he was willing to sell himself. His love for Bethany had blinded him so much he said yes.

By the time he arrived in America and found Bethany she was with another man. She had played Antoine for a fool and returned to marry a rich boyfriend. Antoine’s heart was broken, his life shattered. Instead of returning to Italy and face his family he stayed in America.

That was when he had met Madam Stonewood. When he had seen Bethany in the arms of another man he took off running. He ran until he couldn’t any more and collapsed in the street. She took Antoine in fed him, clothed him, put a roof over his head. She was the one who had taught Antoine how to please a woman, how to dress, how to act. The one thing she always had a problem with was his temper. Antoine was a passionate man, and all too quick to anger. She knew his anger stemmed from the betrayal of his love. She had also hoped that someday a woman would come along that would calm the storm in the young man’s heart.

It was years ago now, as Antoine looked around him. She had taught him well and now he lived comfortably. He took the money from the rich foolish women. He treated them like dirt, and they seemed to like it. They had husbands and families and were willing to risk it all to share his company. He felt they deserved whatever they got; he was just doing his job.

Antoine’s breathing had returned to normal now and he could sense how calm the night was. He laid back in his bed and closed his eyes trying to push the memories back down into the depths of his soul. He soon felt the sleep coming again and welcomed it.

The next morning Stacy came by and the two of them sat outside talking. Antoine was working out and could hear their conversation.

“You need to get laid,” said Stacy.

“Please,” sighed Josey, “If that’s all I wanted I could easily pick a guy up.”

“Personally I think you need to put away your battery operated friend, march next door and take the bull by the horns, so to speak.”

“First of all, I don’t have thirty-five hundred dollars, and secondly he’s too rough for my taste.”

"How do you know?” asked Stacy.

“I saw him,” said Josey calmly.

“No! When?”

“Last night, he was banging some red head on his balcony.”

“Wow,” said Stacy, “Did you get a look at his…”

“Stacy!”

“I was just wondering if the rumors were true,” she smiled.

“Yes, he’s hung. He’s hung like a horse, happy? It’s still not the point.”

“So what is?”

“You know I’ve been out of the game for a while. Doug was my first and only so far. Doug was rough like Antoine was last night. He always seemed to be rushing. The only time I’ve had an orgasm is by myself,” said Josey.

“You’re kidding.”

“I wish,” said Josey, “I want someone who can be tender and take his time. I just want to really make love to someone and not just a quick bang.”

“You’re right. There’s a time when you want that intense sexual desire to sweep you away, and other times you just want to savor it,” said Stacy.

“I want a chance to savor,” said Josey, “And with someone else in the room.” Stacy laughed.

“So you’re sure that Antoine can’t be tender,” she said.

“Not from what I’ve seen and heard,” said Josey. “Well except when I helped him last night.”

“What?”

“The girl he was with smashed him in the head with a vase,” said Josey. “I helped him back inside and cleaned him up. For a moment he did have this tenderness in his voice, but with someone like him how can you tell if it’s an act?”

“Maybe he’ll prove you wrong,” smiled Stacy.

Antoine smiled. “So she wants tender,” he thought. He set his weights down and rested his hands on his strong hips. A smile came to his soft lips as an idea came into his head. He went to the phone and made a phone call.

That night Josey was sitting outside on her balcony when Antoine returned to his home. She saw the woman he was with that night. She wasn’t a bleach blonde Barbie like the other girls she had seen him with. The woman was more petite with light brown hair and dark eyes. She was closer to Josey’s own body type except Josey was taller.

Even though Antoine dimmed the lights Josey could still see them on the couch. Antoine slipped his coat off and joined her on the couch. She watched as he reached out and gently caressed the woman’s cheek before kissing her lips. He pressed her against the couch as she slipped his arms around her waist. He slipped his hands up to her back and found her zipper.

He kissed her skin gently as he lowered the straps on her gown revealing her black lace bra. Josey watched as he gently kissed and caressed the woman’s skin. She saw him toss the bra aside and press against the woman. He moved down her body undressing her, caressing her, and kissing her. She was soon naked and Antoine removed his clothes as well.

Josey blushed and almost ran inside when she saw him lower himself in front of the woman. He spread her legs open to give her oral pleasure. Josey could feel her own wetness as she watched. The woman moaned gently under his caress. The throbbing between Josey’s own legs intensified as she watched him please the woman. Soon he moved to enter her and Josey felt herself gasp. He slipped on a condom and kissed the woman gently.

He didn’t just thrust into her as he had the night before with the red head. He eased his way in and took his time. Soon he was thrusting fast into the woman as she clung to his hard body crying out for more. Josey was hypnotized as he continued to drive into the woman until she climaxed.

When it was over she saw Antoine rise and leave the room briefly. He soon came back and covered them both with a blanket. They cuddled for a while and Josey quickly ducked inside. Her face was hot and the throbbing was still there. She decided to jump into the shower and find her own relief.

Days passed and that night haunted Josey, literally. She had begun to dream of Antoine, envisioning herself on that couch with him. She would wake up still feeling his burning kisses on her skin. She pushed the thoughts aside and tried to force herself to work.

It was October now and she was dreading the holidays. She hated the thought of going home and wished there was a way to avoid the whole thing. She had a class reunion, a wedding, Thanksgiving, a family Christmas, and New Year’s Eve coming. The idea of going alone made her sick inside.

“You should hire Antoine,” she heard Stacy saying.

“Maybe," she found herself saying, “I wonder what he would charge just to be an escort? There’s only one way to find out?”

It took two days for Josey to build up the courage to go over and talk to him. Now she stood in front of his door frozen in fear. She raised her trembling hand and finally knocked on the door. She waited patiently trying to steady herself as she heard him moving inside. He finally answered the door.

He looked gorgeous as he stood before her. He was wearing black jeans and a tight black t-shirt. He looked at her and a slight smile crossed his lips. It was an unexpected surprise to see her. She was wearing a black pleated skirt with black nylons and high-heeled boots. Her blouse was white silk and was wrapped around her full bosom.

“Miss Winters. To what do I owe this pleasure?” he said, “Have I disturbed you?”

“No, I was hoping I could speak to you, in private,” she said.

“Of course,” he said. He stepped back opening the door to her. She walked past him and stood inside. He looked at her, “Would you mind removing your shoes? It’s a very expensive carpet."

“Oh course,” she smiled. She removed her boots and followed him inside. She gasped when she saw the weapons on the wall, “Wow!” His apartment had been so dark that night she helped him she hadn’t seen them.

“You like them?” he asked.

“They’re exquisite. I personally have affection for swords. Even used to fence in school,” she said. “I did an interview with a man who still makes pieces of authentic armor as well as swords. You have a nice collection, some very rare pieces. You have a good eye.” She turned and laid eyes on the crossbow, “My god, is that Hungarian?”

“Yes it is,” he said.

“Mr. Laconte, you have a very good eye. These are extremely rare. I’ve never seen one in such excellent condition,” she said.

“Thank you,” he said, “Come.”

She followed him to the living room and saw the massive fish tank on display. She walked over to it and gently placed her hand on the glass. He watched as her eyes followed the fish around the tank and a smile danced across her lips.

“You boys have a good home,” she said. “Hello gorgeous,” she said looking at the big fish, “Chinese Tailbar Lion Fish.”

“I always forget his name,” said Antoine going over to her, “He’s an expensive fellow.”

“He’s beautiful,” she said, “Nice tank.”

“Yeah it’s my third one,” he said. She looked at him puzzled. “It is a long story, would you like something to drink?” he asked.

“Water would be just fine,” she said.

Antoine went over and got water for her. He came back and handed the glass to her. He made his way to the sofa and she followed him. They sat together and he looked at her.

“So what did you wish to talk about?” he asked.

“Well,” she said blushing, “I wasn’t sure how to approach this.”

“Just say it,” he said.

“I understand that you provide a certain service to women,” she said, “That you are a gigolo.”

“Yes,” he said, “I am.”

“I was wondering if you provide other services besides sex,” she said.

“Such as?” Josey sighed. He was not going to make it easy on her.

“I have several events coming up and I was wondering if you could be an escort,” she said.

“I see,” he smiled.

“No sex involved. I just hate going to all these functions alone. I thought maybe you could pretend to be my boyfriend,” she said, “I just didn’t know if you charge the same for that or what.”

“Do you have the dates?” he asked. She pulled a piece of paper out of her pocket and handed it to him. He took it and looked it over. There were a few dates that he had made arrangements for but it was nothing he couldn’t reschedule, “I’ll do it if you agree to my conditions.”

“Let’s hear them,” she said.

“If we are to appear as a couple then we should share quarters where permissible,” he said. “You will need to provide a background for me to follow. A job, how we met, and details about yourself that only a boyfriend would know.”

“Of course,” she said, “And your fee?”

“Simply pay my expenses and we will call it even,” he said.

“Expenses?” she asked.

“Hotel room, airfare, meals and the like,” he said.

“That’s all?” she asked.

“Yes,” he said, “Do these things and I will be at your beck and call.”

“Thank you, Mr. Laconte,” she said.

“You must call me Antoine,” he said reaching for her hand. She jumped and he shook his head, “We have to work on this. If we are to convince people that we are an intimate couple it will not look right if you jump at my touch.”

“You’re right,” she blushed, “I’m sorry, this is all new to me.”

“It is all right,” he said moving closer, “We may work on this now if you have time.”

“Uh, yeah,” she said softly.

She practically held her breath as Antoine reached out and caressed her cheek. He could feel her trembling and he fought the urge to smile. He ran his thumb over her soft lips as he gazed into her blue eyes. For the first time he realized what a brilliant blue they were. He leaned in and she could feel his breath as he looked at her. His lips brushed hers and he felt her take a sharp breath.

He pressed his lips to hers and felt her tense slightly. He took his tongue and softly caressed her lips. She let out a small gasp that caused her lips to part slightly. He gently took advantage and slipped his tongue into her mouth causing her to tense again. He brought his hand up to her back and gently stroked her. He soon felt her relax against him as he deepened the kiss.

He moved his hand up and found her silken hair. She moaned slightly as his skillful tongue probed her mouth. He felt her kissing back now and she soon wrapped her arms around his strong shoulders. She pressed against him as he held her tight. He was beginning to get aroused and gently backed out of the kiss. She opened her eyes and looked at him.

“That is better,” he said, “I need you to trust me. I will not harm you. You need to be relaxed with me or people will know we are not what we seem.”

“Of course,” she said, “I should go.”

“Of course,” he smiled standing up, “I will see you soon then.”

Josey left and returned to her home. She sat down and started to make arrangements for her first trip. She had her fifteen-year class reunion and she was not looking forward to it. She had been terribly overweight in school and hadn’t had too many friends. Of course, the idea of showing up thin, with a guy like Antoine on her arm suddenly put a smile on her face.

She booked the hotel room and the two tickets back to Wisconsin. She then came up with a background story for Antoine. He was now an independently wealthy businessman who made a fortune on the stock market. They had met when she was doing research on an article. They had been dating three months and it was serious.

She took the information to him as well as details about herself. Antoine smiled as he looked at her list. Her favorite color ~ sapphire blue, nickname ~ Josey, she liked Frank Sinatra, her favorite food ~ gyros, loves red wine, favorite soda ~ Mountain Dew Code Red, favorite drink ~ Amaretto and coke, favorite animal ~ Huskies, favorite scent ~ White Shoulders, favorite song ~ “Night and Day” favorite holiday song ~ “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve”, favorite hobby ~ dancing. He studied the paper with a smile. He had everything he needed, or so he thought.

Soon it was time to leave for Wisconsin. She took her bag and set it by the front door. She picked up her purse and looked around to make sure she had everything. Just then, there was a knock at the door. She opened it and there stood Antoine. He was wearing a smoke gray turtleneck with dark gray pants and black dress shoes. He had his jacket slung over his arm.

“Hi,” she smiled as she opened the door to him; “I’m just about ready.” Antoine stepped in and took her suitcase. He set it with his. “All right,” she said, “Let’s go, let me take your coat,” she said.

Antoine handed her his coat as he took both their bags and walked her towards the entrance of the complex. She followed him out to the waiting cab. He handed their bags over and opened the door for her. She slipped in and he went around the other side and got in next to her.

As they drove, Antoine took time to look her over. She was wearing a black turtleneck sweater, with blue jeans and black high-heeled boots. She had a black belt with a silver buckle, and small silver hoop earrings. Her hair was pulled back from her face in a loose ponytail. She was quite dazzling in a simple way.

Once at the airport, he took the tickets from her as they checked their bags. They made it through security and were soon allowed to board the plane. They were in first class and Josey was ready to sit back and relax. As soon as they were in the air and on their way drinks were served.

“Would you like something to drink?” she asked.

“I’ll take scotch on the rocks,” he said. “Red wine all right darling?” he asked turning to Josey.

“Yes,” she smiled, “Perfect.”

The flight attendant handed him the drinks and moved on. They drank their drinks and Josey soon relaxed as the wine flowed through her body. He watched as her eyes grew heavy and he offered his embrace to her. He moved the divider from between them and slipped an arm around her shoulders. She instinctively slid over and nuzzled against his strong chest. He stroked her hair as she slept against him. There was something very different about her and Antoine could sense it. Holding her right then he felt a warmness sweep over him that he had never felt before. He wasn’t sure what it was but he knew he had to be careful. He didn’t want to hurt her, he could tell she was somewhat delicate and he did not want to crush that softness.

When Josey woke, she was in Antoine’s arms. She could hear his heart beating as she laid her head against his strong chest. She moved from his arms and he smiled at her.

“Sorry,” she said.

“It’s all right,” he said, “If you’ll excuse me.”

He moved from his seat and made his way to the bathroom. Just as he returned they turned on the “Fasten Seatbelt” sign. He took his seat next to Josey as they landed.

After coming to a stop, he helped her on with her jacket. He took her hand and they walked up the ramp together. They got their bags and once outside he flagged a cab for them. As they drove to the hotel Antoine looked at her carefully.

“So why aren’t you staying with your family?” he asked.

“I figured this would be easier. The reunion is at the same hotel we’re staying in and this is stressful enough without seeing my mother. She would just give you the third degree and I’m not up for that,” she said. “I’m sure she’d find something wrong with you. She never thinks anyone is good enough for me. It’s a catch 22; she wants me to be with someone but then no one's good enough for me. I keep telling her that I can’t be so picky.” He looked at her, surprised she had such an opinion of herself.

“I see,” he said softly.

"Tonight’s more casual. They’re going to have a buffet, kind of a getting reacquainted sort of thing. There’ll be a DJ. Tomorrow night will be the formal dinner and dance,” she said.

“Sounds good,” he said.

Once they arrived at the hotel Antoine helped her from the cab as the porter took their bags. Antoine once again paid for the cab. Josey intended on talking to him about it later. As they went inside he placed his arm around her waist and she was glad he did. As they approached the desk Josey heard, someone call her name.

“Josey,” squealed the girl coming at them, "Josey is that you?”

“Dear God,” groaned Josey, “Incoming.”

She slipped her arm around Antoine’s waist and forced a smile. Coming at her was Shannon White. She had been in Josey’s homeroom in high school. Shannon was a sweet girl although hyperactive at times and with a tendency to say the wrong thing. Shannon had not changed much with her hair still frizzing out and her out of style glasses. She was dressed entirely in purple and Josey saw the look on Antoine’s face.

“Josey,” she said hugging her, “You look great. I almost didn’t recognize you.”

“Thank you,” she smiled.

“And who do we have here?” asked Shannon eyeing Antoine.

“I’m sorry. Antoine this is Shannon White. Shannon this is my boyfriend Antoine Laconte.”

“It’s Shannon Miller now,” she said shaking Antoine’s hand.

“A pleasure,” he smiled, “Darling if we are going to shower before dinner we should go check in.”

“Of course, I’ll see you later,” said Josey.

"You bet,” smiled Shannon.

They turned towards the desk and as they stood there checking in Antoine noticed Shannon was still watching them. He let his hand slip down to Josey’s backside. She tensed for a moment and quickly recovered. She let her hand drop to his rear as well. As they waited, for the key Antoine leaned over and kissed her neck then moved his lips to her ear.

“You’re doing great,” he whispered.

When they were ready, the bellhop took their luggage and showed them over to the elevators. There was another couple in the elevator so Antoine decided to test his limits with Josey. He pulled her close and nipped at her ear with his soft lips. Josey simply sighed with a slight smile and slipped her arms around him. They were shown to their room and after he took the bags in Antoine tipped him and he left. Antoine opened his bag and hung his suit in the closet. He removed more things from his bag as Josey went into the bathroom. He was a surprised that there was a king size bed. He had assumed she would get two doubles. There was more then enough room to sleep apart in the bed if that’s what she wanted. He soon had visions of himself sleeping on the sofa. She returned from the bathroom to find Antoine seated on the bed.

“So what time do we need to be downstairs?” he asked.

“We’ve got two hours or so,” she said.

“All right,” he said, “Come here.”

Josey walked over to the bed and sat next to him. He moved behind her and she soon felt him place his large hands on her shoulders. He gently began to knead her shoulders. As he massaged her back and neck he watched her let her head hang. The tension was slowly slipping from her body. He spoke gently to her causing her to tremble.

“Why are you so tense Josephine?” he asked.

“High school wasn’t a good time for me,” she said with heavy sigh, “I was overweight in school. I didn’t date until after school and I was teased a lot. Bullies humiliated me in public, threatened me, they made my life a living hell. I haven’t seen most of these people since graduation. Plus Doug will be here.”

“Who is Doug?” he asked.

“Doug and I went to school together. He wasn’t exactly popular either but he was sweet. We started dating after graduation. He was my first love,” she said. “He was my first everything. We dated for a long time before it got serious. He promised me he was going to marry me and then after we started having sex it all fell apart. He started to pull away and I found out he was seeing someone else. I was humiliated after that. I finally decided to do something about my weight. I went to a “Fat Farm” and learned how to eat right and exercise. I skipped my ten-year reunion because I wasn’t happy with my weight yet. I still feel insecure about how I look and I wasn’t sure I was going to come at all. I asked you to come with me because I thought I could make Doug jealous. I wanted to make these people eat crow a bit.”

“I understand,” he said, “This weekend I will do whatever I can to help you. I am at your command.”

“Thank you,” she said, “I should get ready.”

She rose from the bed, gathered her things and slipped into the bathroom. Antoine couldn’t believe anyone would think she was anything less than beautiful now. He was going to go out of his way to make sure this was one weekend she would never forget.

When she came out Antoine was waiting for her. He was wearing black dress slacks with a sapphire blue silk shirt. It was unbuttoned slightly showing his chest. He had black boots with silver buckles that matched his belt. His hair fell neatly around his dark face. He slipped on his leather coat and looked at her.

She was wearing a simple black dress. It hugged her curves, was sleeveless and fell just above her knees. She turned her back to him revealing a silver clasp at the neck and a scoop back line revealing her beautiful back. He also took notice of the slight slit in the back of her dress. She still wore her silver hoops and bracelet.

“What do you think?” she asked turning to him, “Sling back pumps, or suede boots.”

“The boots,” he said.

Josey sat on the edge of the bed and slipped the black suede boots on. They came up to her knees and Antoine liked the way they hugged her calves. She stood up and looked at him.

“Well?” she asked turning around.

“You’re missing something,” he said.

He walked over to his bag and removed a small box. He opened it and pulled out a simple silver chain that held a round cut diamond set in silver. He showed it to her and smiled.

“May I?” he asked.

“Yes,” she said.

Antoine moved behind her and slipped the necklace around her neck as she held her hair. She let her hair fall back as he walked around to face her. She was surprised as he reached out and brushed her hair back a bit before caressing her cheek.

“Perfect,” he said, “Shall we?”

Josey picked up her wrap and purse before taking Antoine’s arm. He escorted her to the elevator and they rode down. He could tell she was getting nervous. He pulled her close and kissed her cheek. When the elevator doors opened, they could see the people mulling around the lobby. They made their way to the ballroom and the check in table. She told them her name and got her nametag. They had to make one for Antoine.

“What’s the name?” asked the girl.

“Antoine Laconte,” said Josey, “A~N~T~O~I~N~E, Big L, little a, Big C, o~n~t~e,” Antoine smiled at how quickly she had spelled his name. The girl handed him the nametag and he stuck it on his shirt.

He escorted Josey inside and they found a table to sit at. He removed his coat and went to get her a drink. When he returned to the table Josey was talking to a red haired woman. He walked over and handed the glass of wine to Josey.

“Antoine, this is Kayla Worth,” said Josey. “We were in the same homeroom. She was my only true friend in High school,” Josey continued, “We walked together for the graduation ceremony. Kayla this is my boyfriend, Antoine Laconte.”

“Nice to meet you,” said Kayla.

“Likewise,” said Antoine joining them.

Several other women joined them before the buffet started. Kayla had married a man in the service and after giving birth to their second child they divorced. Another friend Cindy Wilson had a “partner” name Alex. They were going through the process of having their first child. Yet, another woman named Elissa Wright was joined by her husband Ethan Douglas. They had been married five years and had two kids. Then of course Shannon joined them. Her husband Bruce Miller was a sales clerk and was on the road. They had been married six years and hadn’t started a family yet.

Antoine felt Josey tense as a blonde haired man approached the table. He had a tall leggy blonde-haired woman on his arm that looked like she had been under the knife more than once. He placed his hand on Josey’s shoulder as the couple approached and knew it had to be Doug. “Hello Josey,” he said, “It’s nice to see you again. It’s been a long time. Ladies,” he said addressing the rest of the table.

“You’re just in time Doug,” said Shannon, “Antoine was just going to tell us how he and Josey met.”

“Really?” he smiled, “This I’ve got to hear.”

“Well it’s a rather simple story,” said Antoine, “Josephine was doing research on an article she was doing, “How to Become Independently Wealthy”. She had heard of how I made my fortune playing the stock market and such. She sought me out for an interview and I am very grateful she did,” he said smiling at her. “When I heard the interview was for an internet magazine I was expecting this child, a generation X type. Imagine my surprise when this stunning beauty came sashaying into my office. I still remember what you were wearing. You had on that black pleated skirt with the white wrap around blouse. She sat down in front of me and crossed her legs. That was all I needed,” he said as Josey blushed, “I asked her out to dinner and we’ve been inseparable ever since.”

“Plus you were so charming,” said Josey, “I could tell that it would have been useless to turn him down. He wasn’t about to take no for an answer, so I’m glad I didn’t try. Best decision I ever made.”

She looked into Antoine’s eyes and for a moment, she thought she saw something. She reached out and caressed his cheek. He turned to her touch and kissed her palm. He leaned in and gently kissed her lips as her friends looked on. He then smiled at her. Doug just stared in disbelief.

Soon they announced that the buffet was ready. They all filed through the line and went back to the table. They ate and made chit chat as they sat around. Antoine focused his attention on Josey as he fed her and whispered sweetly into her ear.

It was burning Doug to see her like that. Doug dropped his napkin and froze as he looked under the table. Josey had her legs crossed towards Antoine. He saw Antoine’s large hand on her right thigh. He was stroking his hand back and forth over her skin and nylons. She in return had her left hand on Antoine’s right thigh making circles on it and rubbing it as they sat.

When dinner was over the music started but Josey didn’t feel much like dancing at first. She excused herself from the table and left Antoine sitting there. After a few moments, he sensed something was wrong and went to find her. He soon found her in a corridor leaning against the wall. He walked over to her and she looked at him.

“Are you all right?” he asked.

“Yeah,” she said, “I guess, I’m not sure,” she said, “I couldn’t breathe in there.”

“You can talk to me,” he said, stepping closer to her.

“It’s just seeing Doug after all this time,” she said, “It’s a bit frustrating. I can’t talk about this.”

She started to walk away only to have Antoine gently grab her arms and pull her to him. Even in the dim light, he could see her eyes sparkling like Sapphires. He could feel her chest heave as he closed the distance between them. Her soft moist lips looked so inviting as they trembled slightly.

“Tell me what you need,” he said softly to her, “Tell me what you want of me.”

“Kiss me,” she said in a near whisper.

Antoine pressed his lips to hers and was surprised by her eagerness. He quickly parted her lips hearing her moan as his tongue swept through her mouth. He pressed her gently against the wall as she wrapped her arms around his strong shoulders. He felt her press her body to his and he was quickly becoming aroused. She was the first woman he had wanted in a long time. The desire he was feeling was starting to overwhelm him. He soon tore his mouth from hers and trailed kisses up her neck to her ear.

She let out a gasp as he touched her. She could feel him becoming aroused as he pressed his hips to her. He then pressed his lips to her ear. She ached for him but was scared of getting that close. Then he broke the silence.

“I could show you pleasure like you’ve never known,” he whispered to her, “I would give you anything you desired, all you have to do is ask.”

With that, he stepped back from her and walked away. Josey stood trembling against the wall his words echoing in her ears. His kiss was like a drug and she was left wanting more. His kiss awoke feelings that Josey had tried to bury long ago. She had convinced herself that she didn’t need that in her life after Doug had broken her heart. Moving in next to Antoine had changed everything. For the first time she was feeling lust and desire yet, she had no idea how to deal with it.

She wanted Antoine very much but she couldn’t bring herself to give in. He was a gigolo and it was his job to make women feel that way. She had no way of knowing if he was being true or playing a game with her. As much as she was tempted by his offer, she couldn’t accept it. She wasn’t ready.

Soon Josey was ready to leave and Antoine had no problem with that. He escorted her back upstairs and could feel that she was unnerved. He began to think that he had gone too far with his statement and scared her. When they got back to the room she went into the bathroom leaving Antoine alone. He soon heard muffled talking and assumed she was on her cell phone.

“I’m in trouble,” said Josey to Stacy as she lit a cigarette.

“What’s going on?” asked Stacy.

Josey told Stacy what happened at the party and how frustrated she was now feeling. Stacy felt for her friend knowing how much she had been through.

“How am I going to do this? I am totally turned on and now I need to sleep in the same bed with him. Just the thought of laying next to that rock hard body,” she sighed.

“You could just give in to him,” said Stacy.

“I’m not ready to have sex with him. No one’s touched me since Doug and that was nearly ten years ago. He’s going to think I’m a freak when he finds out.”

“He will not,” said Stacy, “Doug treated you like shit. Antoine may act hard nosed from time to time but I believe he’d understand.”

“I don’t know,” said Josey, “I need to think about this. We have several more occasions coming up. Maybe later down the line.”

“Just don’t worry about it. Go out there, get in bed, and turn your back to him and go to sleep.”

Josey took her friends advice. She snuffed out the cigarette and left the bathroom. She got her pajamas changed and went out to the bed. Antoine was already under the covers when she came out. She was wearing a two-piece silk pajama set in silver. She was glad she picked something that covered so well. She slipped into the bed and kept her back to Antoine. She practically clung to the edge of the mattress until she fell asleep.

The next morning when Josey awoke, she could feel weight on her. She knew instantly that it was Antoine’s arm that was around her. His hand was resting on her rib cage and his thumb was touching the edge her breast. He was lying right against her frame and she could feel his breath on her neck.

If she just wanted to have sex it wouldn’t be a problem but she wanted more than that. She felt like her first time with Doug was a joke and she wanted to have a chance to do things the right way. She just didn’t see herself falling in love with a gigolo. Antoine stirred and rolled away from her. She was grateful and slipped from the bed.

She got in the shower and tried to push the kiss from her mind. She couldn’t be falling for such a man. He made his living seducing women, and she was probably just another conquest. When she was done, she dried off and got dressed. Antoine was sitting on the edge of the bed when she came out.

“I ordered breakfast,” he said, “I hope that’s all right.

“That’s fine,” she said.

“I’m going to shower,” he said.

Josey felt stung by the coldness in his voice. “Did I hurt his feelings?” she thought. Was it just possible that underneath all his macho toughness he really did have a heart? She waited for breakfast. When it arrived she paid for it and soon Antoine came out. He was wearing jeans and a tee shirt. He sat across from her and settled in to eat.

“Antoine,” she said softly, “Can we talk?”

“Of course,” he said.

“I feel bad about how I reacted to you last night. You took me by surprise when you said what you did and I didn’t now how to take it,” she said “I think you should know that I haven’t been with anyone in a long time. In fact, I’ve only ever been with one man and it’s been ten years since I’ve been with anyone.”

“That is a long time to be alone,” he said.

“Doug was not what he appeared to be,” she said.

“He hurt you,” said Antoine softly.

“Yes,” she said, “Emotionally, physically,” she stopped.

“I am sorry,” he said.

“It’s not your fault,” she said, “I just didn’t know what to do after Doug and I broke up. Sex with him was less than pleasant. Since he was my only real experience I just assumed all men were like him.”

“If you are uncomfortable continuing this arrangement you only have to say so,” he said.

“It’s not that. It’s just kissing you, being close to you,” she paused, “I haven’t had these feelings before and I’m unprepared to deal with them. You are obviously experienced and I don’t know how to deal with it.”

“I never meant to make you uncomfortable,” he said.

“I know,” she said, “I’m sure the women you see are used to your form of seduction but this is something new to me. I’m not aggressive, or experienced, in a lot of ways I feel like a virgin,” she blushed not believing she had said that.

“I’m sure in many ways you are,” he said, “My offer still stands, if you should change your mind.”

“Well thank you,” she said.

The rest of the day was uneventful; Josey worked a bit on her article and Antoine returned some phone calls. Soon it was time to dress for dinner. When Josey came out of the bathroom Antoine looked at her intensely. She was wearing a beautiful sapphire blue dress. It had spaghetti straps and a fitted bodice covered in rhinestones. It had a full skirt that fell just above her knees. She had her hair done up with little ringlets hanging down. She turned her back to him.

“Could you zip me?” she asked.

Antoine walked over and raised the zipper on her dress. Inside what he really wanted to do was lower it and see her in her nakedness. She had satin shoes that matched her dress with rhinestone buckles. It was all he could do to control his urge to throw her on the bed and take her at the moment. He slipped her wrap around her shoulders and escorted her downstairs.

She looked at him in the elevator and he did look handsome. He was wearing an all black suit with a silk shirt that matched her dress. No tie of course but he still looked sexy. He escorted her to the ballroom and there were no nametags that night.

They found their table and Josey flinched when she saw they were seated at the same table as Doug and his girl. Antoine simply placed his hand on the back of her neck caressing it gently with his thumb. A chill ran through her as he did. They made idle chit chat with the other couples as dinner was served. Antoine paid special attention to Josey keeping her attention focused on him and not on Doug. After dessert, the band started to play. Josey and Antoine sat for a while as they watched the other couples dance. Doug was on the dance floor pressing himself against his date. Josey felt sick to her stomach and turned away. Antoine excused himself and went over to the stage.

Josey sat and waited for him to return. Doug and his date took their seats as the music changed. She recognized the opening instantly as “Night and Day”. Antoine walked over to her and held out his hand as they sang.

“I believe that’s our song,” he smiled, “May I have this dance?”

“Of course,” she smiled taking his hand.

She was surprised when Antoine swept her into his strong embrace and danced her around the floor. She had no idea he knew how to dance so well. As they moved, he softly sang to her under his breath. She held tight to him as if she was in a dream. She didn’t want it to end. She hadn’t noticed that others had stopped to watch them.

At the end of the song, Antoine dipped her and slowly brought her up until they kissed. Josey blushed when everyone clapped for them. She hugged Antoine and tried to hide a bit.

The band started another song and he simply held her close to dance more. He felt her hand move up to his neck and play with his long hair. He didn’t mind it at all; in fact, he welcomed her touch. He ran a strong hand up her back and held her tight to him.

“You were wonderful,” she whispered to him softly, “Thank you.”

“You are most welcome,” he said.

He pulled back and looked at her for a moment. He couldn’t help but lean in and kiss her tender lips. He parted her lips giving her a slow, deep, lingering kiss that made her mind swim. His full lips and soft tongue made her feel weak in the knees as he probed her mouth. It was like having hot butter running through her body. She feared she was falling in love with him.

After the dance, she went to the powder room. Antoine sat at the table and waited for her. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. She freshened up and then made her way back to the ballroom. She was stopped by Doug and got a sick feeling as he came towards her.

“Hello Josey,” he said in a near hiss.

“What do you want?” she asked.

“You know I like the new packaging,” he said backing her into the wall, “Maybe I was hasty in letting you go.”

“Get bent Doug,” she said trying to move away.

“Now just where did you get that mouth?” he asked grabbing her arm, “Surely not from your new friend Antoine.”

“Let me go,” she said trying to pull away.

“Looks like someone’s forgotten their manners,” he said slamming her to the wall. Josey lost her breath for a moment. He leaned in close to her, “Guess I’ll have to start your lessons again.”

“You don’t need to teach her anything,” came Antoine’s voice, “Let her go.”

“Why don’t you just take a hike,” said Doug.

“I said let her go,” said Antoine stepping closer.

“And what are you going to do about it fancy boy,” Doug hissed.

Antoine removed his coat preparing to fight. Doug laughed and took a swing at Antoine. Antoine dodged the swing and landed his own knocking Doug to his ass. He grabbed Josey and pulled her behind him. Doug put his hand to his mouth and felt the blood. Antoine stood over him with a menacing look.

“If you ever touch her again, I will kill you,” he hissed to Doug.

Doug stood up and straightened himself. He walked past them as Josey stood behind Antoine. As soon as he was gone, Antoine turned his attention to Josey.

“Are you all right?” he asked caressing her cheek, “Did he hurt you?”

“No Antoine, I’m fine,” she said, “He just shook me up a bit.”

“As long as he did not harm you,” he said.

“Not really he just squeezed my arm a bit. I’ll be fine,” she said. “If you don’t mind I think I’d like to call it a night.”

“Of course,” he said.

Without drawing much attention Antoine collected their things and escorted her to the elevators. Once inside he saw her begin to shake. He reached over and gently took her into his arms. She wrapped her arms around him and started to cry. He ran his hands up her back and held her close. He walked her to the room and took her inside. He had her sit on the bed and he held her in silence. Finally, he spoke to her.

“It’s all right,” he said softly, “He won’t ever touch you again I promise.” He took his hand and gently raised her face to met his gaze.

“Antoine,” she said softly.

“Yes,” he said, “Tell me what you need, Cara.”

“I need to be touched,” she said, “But I don’t know if I’m ready.”

“There are many ways to give pleasure,” he said quietly, “For now I think I know what you need.” He started to kiss her and she pulled back.

“What about…your fee?” she said.

“Your soft moans of pleasure are all the payment I need,” he said.

He gently pressed his lips to her as she clung to him. He gently parted her soft lips and she let out a moan. She kissed him back and he welcomed her exploration and her eagerness. He gently shifted his weight and pressed her against the bed. She pushed him away for a moment.

“Is something wrong?” he asked.

“If you don’t mind, I would like to change out of this dress first,” she said, “As lovely as it is it is very uncomfortable.”

“Of course,” he said.

Josey slipped from his arms and went to her bag. After grabbing a pair of pajamas she turned her back to him. Before she even spoke, he walked over and unzipped her dress placing a gentle kiss on her shoulder as he did. She disappeared into the bathroom as he slipped out of his suit and such.

When she came out of the bathroom Antoine was laying on the bed wearing only his black silk boxers. He sat up as she came out. She was wearing a light blue fuzzy top, with matching drawstring pants. She walked over and sat on the bed next to him.

“Did you change your mind?” he asked.

“No,” she said, “I’m just feeling a bit vulnerable here.”

“You have no reason to fear me,” he said caressing her cheek, “I will not harm you.”

“I know,” she said.

He reached out and caressed her cheek softly. She looked in his deep brown eyes and relaxed a bit. He leaned in and his lips brushed hers. She pressed her lips to his and he welcomed it. He opened his mouth to hers and he felt her gently exploring him. She was tentative and it was arousing him fast.

He pulled her into his arms and laid her back on the bed. He deepened the kiss and she let out a soft moan. He probed her mouth now savoring the sweet taste of her. He had never been so drawn to someone before; her kiss was intoxicating to him.

As he kissed her, he felt her run her fingers through his thick hair. He ran his hand up her back and under her top. Much to his delight, she wasn’t wearing a bra. Her skin was soft and the warmth made him feel instantly aroused.

His mouth left hers and he kissed up her jaw line to her ear. He kissed and nipped playfully at her skin as she let out a soft sigh. When he got to the hollow of her throat, he lingered before kissing up the other side of her neck.

He moved his hand to her waist and inched it up as he claimed her mouth again in mind numbing kiss. She finally felt him bring a hand up and cup her breast with his large hand. She moaned into his mouth and pressed against his warm touch.

She moaned again as he took his thumb and caressed her nipple. He felt it grow hard as he caressed her. He shifted his weight and pressed his leg between hers. He continued to fondle both of her breasts as he kissed her. Soon he lifted her top and revealed her breasts. He moved down and she let out a gasp as Antoine flicked her nipple with his tongue. 

As he took it in his mouth, she let out another soft moan and pressed against him. She felt as if warm waves were washing over her body as he caressed her. He brought his hand up to her other breast matching his mouth. He could feel her arch against him. As his thigh rested between hers, he could feel her heat. She began rubbing against him more.

As his mouth concentrated on her breasts, he dropped his hand to her buttocks. He kneaded them gently as she moaned again. He soon moved his thigh and she felt him slide his hand between her legs. He began caressing her through the thin material. He could feel her wetness as he touched her. She gasped saying his name and clutching his hair. He could feel her need.

He untied the drawstring on her pants and slipped his hand inside. His hand glided over her soft skin and he heard her breath catch as he touched her soft nest of hair.

“Do you want me to stop?” he asked.

“No,” she gasped, “Please don’t.”

He slipped his hand down and began massaging her most intimate spot. Her breath was coming fast and hard as he moved a bit faster. He pressed his cheek to hers as she cried out. Antoine gasped himself as he slipped a long finger inside of her. She pushed hard against him as he pushed into her. Antoine couldn’t help but smile to himself. He could only imagine how it would feel to have her clasping his manhood. “All in good time,” he thought as he touched her.

He withdrew his finger as she let out a soft whimper. He pushed in again as she cried out and moved to meet him. He began to probe and massage her gently as she moaned and moved against him. He gradually increased the pace as she cried out. She moaned louder arching her hips to meet him.

“That’s it,” he whispered to her, “Let go, let it happen.”

“Oh yes,” she cried out.

He kissed her again and buried his face in her hair. He soon felt her tense as she hit her climax. He felt her nails dig into his shoulder and then she relaxed a bit. He gently moved his hand and hugged her. Soon her breathing slowed and she spoke.

“What about you?” she asked.

“Do not worry about me,” he said kissing her forehead.

He moved from the bed and covered her with the blankets. He went into the bathroom and Josey heard the shower turn on before drifting off to sleep.

Antoine stood in the shower thinking of Josey. Everything about her turned him on, her smell, her taste, and the way she felt. Just thinking about how tight she felt on his finger, and her moans still ringing in his ears. It didn’t take him long to cum.

After cleaning up and drying off, he slipped his boxers back on. Antoine went back out into the bedroom and Josey was sound asleep. He slid into bed and moved closer to her. He slipped an arm around her and she backed up to be against him.

As he laid there holding her he started to think. At first, he had looked at Josey as another conquest but now as he held her in his arms he felt different. Maybe people were right, prison had changed him. At first, it hadn’t bothered him. After a few months, however his feelings changed. No one visited him in jail, called or wrote, not even his best clients.

He had even contemplated giving up the whole gigolo lifestyle when he was released. That had surprised him as well. Antoine was prepared to spend the next several years in jail. After nine months it was discovered that there was a snafu in the paperwork and he was ordered released.

Antoine took some time off and went home to Italy for a while. It had been years since he had seen his family. He spent a year getting to know his family again. He had only just returned to his home when Josey moved in. For the first time, there was more then just a physical attraction. Most of the women he saw weren’t interested in conversation they just wanted to have sex. Not like he could carry on an intelligent conversation with some of his clients anyway.

Josey wasn't fake like most of the women he had been with in his line of work. It wasn't' just her body; she had a real personality as welll. She moved in his arms and he loosened his hold allowing her to roll. She rolled to face him, slipping her arms around him. H held her close and soon fell asleep .

The next morning when Antoine awoke Josey was still in his arms. She was lying across his chest holding him. He felt her stir and he got chills as she dragged her hand across his chest. She lifted her head and saw he was watching her.

“Good morning,” he said.

“Good morning,” she blushed.

“Did you sleep well?”

“Very,” she smiled, “Are you hungry?”

“Very.”

Josey picked up the phone and ordered room service. When she was done she went into the bathroom to wash up. When she came out Antoine was just zipping up his slacks. He was still bare chested.

Josey walked over to her suitcase and pulled out an outfit to wear. She didn’t even think about pulling her top off in front of him. Antoine liked seeing Josey with her natural body. To him that was even more arousing.

She pulled out a flesh colored bra and slipped it on. His eyes fixed on her as she removed her pajama bottoms and slipped on a matching thong. She put on a pair of black pants with lace accents at the hip. She then slipped on an off the shoulder blouse in a deep green.

Their breakfast soon arrived and after Josey paid for it they sat and ate. After eating, they finished packing and then Antoine called to have their bags taken downstairs. He slipped on a black silk shirt and they were soon ready to go. He escorted Josey to the elevator and on the way down they stopped at another floor. Josey tensed as Doug stepped onto the elevator alone. Josey moved to the other side of Antoine and he hugged her close.

As they rode down, she clung to Antoine feeling safe in his strong arms. When they reached the lobby, they went over to the desk to settle the bill as Doug went outside. Josey settled the bill and as she finished up the man addressed her.

“Your car will be here shortly,” he said to Josey.

“Thank you,” she said turning away.

“Car?” he asked.

“I arranged a Limo to take us to the airport,” she said, “Just a little perk.”

They stepped outside with the bellhop and Doug was still there. Antoine held Josey close and nipped at her neck as they stood waiting together. Soon the car pulled up and Antoine was going to load the bags. She grabbed him and smiled.

“Let the driver take care of that,” she smiled, pulling him to her, “I have something else for you to do.”

“Oh really,” he smiled back.

“Yeah.”

He opened the door and they quickly slipped inside. Antoine smiled at her knowing that the whole scene had burned Doug. She leaned over to him and kissed him again as Antoine sat back. She looked at him and then straddled his lap taking him by surprise.

"What in the hell are you doing?” he asked with a half smile.

“We have an hour ride to the airport,” she said, “I thought maybe I could do something for you.”

She pressed the button raising the divider and sealing them off from the driver. She pressed her lips to his again and Antoine stiffened a bit. He wasn’t accustomed to letting a woman take the upper hand when it came to sex, yet something was telling him to let her.

“You don’t have to do this,” he said, as she kissed her way up to his ear.

“I know, but I want to,” she said.

She brought her lips back to his and kissed him again. Antoine opened his mouth to hers and let her slip her tongue inside. He laid back letting her gently explore him with her soft tongue. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest as she gently probed his mouth. She took his bottom lip in her mouth and sucked it gently causing Antoine’s breath to catch.

Her mouth left his and once again, she kissed her way up his jaw line to his neck and up to his ear. She nipped at it and soon she felt Antoine’s hand move from her thigh to her waist. He moved up her back and soon found her silky hair. Her kisses were soft like being kissed by a butterfly and it was driving him wild.

She kissed back down his neck and he was surprised as she started unbuttoning his shirt. As she undid his shirt, she kissed her way across his smooth chest. He let his head fall back as she moved her hands across his chest. She touched his nipple with her fingertip before taking it in her mouth. He gasped as she flicked her tongue against it. He was shocked at what she was doing and the effect it was having.

She kissed her way down and soon she dropped on her knees in front of him. She undid his pants and to her delight, he wasn’t wearing any underwear. He felt a shudder as she touched him. He let out another gasp as she began stroking him with her soft tongue. She licked the length of his shaft causing him to tense. She stroked it and sucked the shaft ignoring the head at first. He had never had a woman take that approach with him.

When she finally took him in her mouth, he let out a moan. She took him in and out, as he pushed against her. Her mouth was soft and warm but she was putting the right amount of pressure on him to drive him crazy. She felt him slip his hand back into her hair as she began going faster. She ringed her fingers around him making it more intense.

“Oh shit,” he said as she went faster on him, “Oh that’s good, just like that.”

Josey almost smiled hearing him urge her on. She could hear his breath coming fast as she continued to race him to his final release. He let out a moan that edged on a growl and Josey sensed he was getting close. He released his hold on her.

“I’m there,” he said.

Josey moved from him keeping her hand moving. Antoine let his head drop back again and closed his eyes as he convulsed in her soft hand. She felt the warmth as he hit his release, and she slowly stopped. His chest was still heaving as he sat there.

Antoine hadn’t let a woman touch him in that way in quite a while. It had been his experience that most women didn’t know how to give proper oral pleasure. Most women went right for the head making it overly sensitive and in turn making it hard to climax. Other women would bite or suck too hard. Some women even yanked on the skin instead of letting their hand glide over the gentle skin. He felt something on his skin and looked down to see Josey with a tissue cleaning him up. He reached to stop her.

“You don’t have to do that,” he said quietly.

“Shh,” she said.

She cleaned him up and covered him up. After a moment, she rejoined him on the seat. He couldn’t help but pull her close to him. He stroked her hair and kissed her forehead.

“That was truly incredible,” he said.

“Really?”

“Yes,” he said, “I have not let many women touch me in that fashion. Most women do not know how to do it properly and it can be quite painful. You however have a very gentle touch that was greatly appreciated.”

“Well, I’m glad you enjoyed it,” she said, “I felt you deserved something more tangible for last night.”

“I’m glad that I could give you pleasure,” he said.

“You did,” she smiled, “And I’m glad I could return it.”

They cuddled together in the backseat and rode in silence to the airport. When they arrived, they checked their bags and were soon able to board. On the plane, Josey settled in next to Antoine and he let her lay against his strong chest. They both slept and when they arrived in California Josey actually felt sad. She hated to see the weekend come to an end.

They took a cab back to the building and Antoine helped her carry her bag inside to her door. As they approached, their apartments Antoine saw a blonde woman on his doorstep. His face darkened and Josey could sense he was upset.

“What the hell are you doing here?” he hissed at her.

“I knew you were coming back today and I needed to see you,” she smiled.

“And I told you that I wanted to be left alone,” he said his voice growing louder, “What are you stupid or something?”

“I’m sorry Antoine but I can pay you extra,” she said reaching for her purse. Josey stood in front of her door trying not to watch.

“Go home,” he said grabbing her arm and leading her towards the exit, “And don’t call me anymore.”

“But Antoine,” she protested.

“Listen,” he hissed looking into her eyes, “I don’t want your damn money and I don’t want you in my bed anymore. You show your face around here again and I’ll have you arrested.”

He gave her a shove and she lurched forward. He watched her as she stumbled down the stairs and disappeared. He turned back to Josey who was standing on her step. She was looking at the ground as he approached her. She refused to look at him until he gently took his hand and lifted her gaze to meet his.

“Josephine,” he said softly, “I’m sorry you had to see that. Sometimes I have to speak harshly to these women. Some fall under the impression that simply because they pay me, they own me.”

“You belong to no one,” she said quietly.

“Not now,” he said, “But someday I might,” his statement took her by surprise.

“Those women treat you like a whore,” she said, “But in the harsh light of morning I think they know who the whore really is. That’s why they act as they do.”

“How do you know such things?” he asked quietly, “You seem like such a tender flower.”

“Even the most tender flower has thorns,” she said.

“How true,” he said caressing her cheek, “I hope you will never use such thorns on me.”

“You have not given me reason to,” she said, feeling him closing in on her.

“And I never will,” he said in a whisper.

He leaned in and gently kissed her soft lips. He felt her slipping away and quickly placed an arm around her waist pulling her to him. He deepened the kiss slightly as she pressed to him. It was brief but passionate. He looked into her eyes.

“I must go now,” he said, “I will see you soon.”

“Of course,” she said.

Antoine left her and went to his door. After unlocking it, he disappeared inside. Josey unlocked her door and went inside as well.

Over the next few days, Josey noticed it was quiet at Antoine’s. She didn’t see him leave much and he hadn’t had any visitors. She didn’t give it much thought other than maybe he was simply taking a break. She assumed that being with so many women must be tiring after a while.

One day she received a letter in the mail informing her that the wedding she was to attend had been called off. That was one date with Antoine she would have to cancel which saddened her. Later that day she got a call from her mother telling her they had changed plans for Thanksgiving. Her mother and her sisters had decided to go up north to visit her mother’s family. Josey was not close to them and didn’t feel comfortable going. She told her mother she’d stay home and see her at Christmas instead.

She hung up and decided to let Antoine know of the changes. She figured that maybe he would have time to schedule something else if he wished. She walked over to his door and knocked on it not knowing if he was even home. She soon heard movement inside and the door opened.

“Josephine,” he said, a smile coming to his lips, “What can I do for you?”

“I wanted to let you know that there were some changes in our plans,” she said.

“Come in,” he said opening the door to her. She stepped inside and he closed the door behind her.

She went over to the sofa and sat down as Antoine joined her. He looked at her and she met his gaze with her own. She smiled at him and then looked down at her hands.

“The wedding I was to attend has been canceled,” she said, “And my mother has changed her plans for Thanksgiving. I thought I should let you know in case you wished to make other plans.”

“That is thoughtful of you,” he said, “However if you are going to be free for Thanksgiving maybe we could share it together. I could have the meal set up here, all the trimmings. During the holidays, the women I see have a tendency to stay at home with their families. I am usually alone for the holidays.”

It wasn’t far from the truth. Antoine did usually spend his holidays alone and often didn’t like to celebrate them. He usually treated them as just another day in life, however he had an opportunity to spend time with Josey, if she would just say yes.

“I wouldn’t want to be any trouble,” she said, “I can survive one holiday on my own.”

“I would be honored if you would join me,” he said. She looked into his eyes and could see he wanted her to say yes.

“Then I would be honored to join you,” she said.

“Is there anything else I can do for you this day?” he asked looking at her.

Josey blushed under his gaze thinking back to that night in the hotel. Several times she had been tempted to go to Antoine, beg him to touch her again. In truth, her skin and body ached to feel his tender touch, his hot mouth on her naked skin. He had known how to touch her body, as a musician knew how to play a well-tuned instrument. He had made her sing in pleasure and she longed to feel it again. She fought her urge unsure of her own feelings for the man sitting next to her. “If only he wasn’t a gigolo,” she thought, “I could fall in love with him.”

Antoine studied her as she blushed. The crimson of it traveled down her neck and practically to her cleavage. She was wearing a white angora sweater and the softness of the sweater rivaled the softness of her skin. He could smell her perfume as she sat next to him her long legs crossed towards him. He fought the urge to push her back on his leather couch and ravage her right there. She suddenly spoke.

“I meant to return your necklace to you,” she said.

“No, that is for you to keep,” he said.

“That hardly seems right,” she said, “I was suppose to be compensating you.”

“I wish for you to have it, and want to hear no more on the subject,” he said in a commanding yet gentle tone.

“As you wish,” she said, “I should go now,” she quickly stood up.

“You don’t have to run off,” he said gently taking her hand, “My invitation still stands.”

“I have a lot of work to do, but I will see you soon,” she said.

“As you wish,” he said kissing her hand.

Josey left and Antoine smiled. He had seen the desire in her eyes as she looked at him. She wanted him but he could also see the fear and uncertainty in her. He knew he had to give her time and that when she was ready she would come to him.

Before they knew it, it was Thanksgiving. Antoine had told her to come over at one so there she was knocking at his door. Antoine opened the door and Josey was taken back by his appearance. He was wearing a lightweight black sweater with a v neckline, black slacks and loafers. She hadn’t seen him look so casual. He smiled at her as she stood there.

“Hello Josephine,” he said.

“Hello,” she smiled.

“Please, come in,” he said.

Josey stepped past him into his home and he shut the door. He took a moment to drink in the sight of her. She was wearing another angora sweater, this one a light shade of gray, she had on a dark gray pleated skirt and her black nylons. As she faced him his breath caught in his throat at what he saw. He gazed at her bosom realizing she wasn’t wearing a bra. He felt a pull in his groin as he looked at her.

“I brought this for you,” she said, “I know they say white wine with poultry but this is one of my favorites,” Antoine took the bottle from her.

“Seven Deadly Zins,” he said.

“Yes, it’s made from seven different Zinfandel grapes,” she said, “It’s really a magnificent wine.”

“Then I shall open it.”

He went over to his bar and quickly found the corkscrew. He hadn’t said anything to her about her boots but she quickly moved from the carpet knowing how he felt about it. She walked around his home looking at it more closely then before. There were several people in the kitchen finishing preparing the meal.

She wandered around feeling Antoine’s eyes on her. He had statues and brick a brac that she found amusing. He did have a great sense of style for a man. He approached her with the glass.

“Here,” he said softly.

“Thank you,” she said taking it from him.

Antoine lifted the glass to his face and smelled the bouquet of the wine before putting it to his lips. It had a strong taste but it was rich, which he liked. It had almost a peppery after taste, which he also enjoyed. He stared at her for a moment before speaking.

“Dinner should be ready soon,” he said.

“All right,” she said.

Antoine stood in silence as he watched her once again move through his home. Most women he brought there saw the bedroom or hot tub and little else. If anyone else had walked through his home touching his things, he would have lost it on them but there was something about the way Josephine did it. She was gentle and seemed to have a respect for his belongings. He walked over to the stereo and turned on some Christmas music. She smiled at him as he did.

Soon dinner was ready to be served and Antoine pulled out a chair at his glass dining table for her. They sat down to eat and talked a bit over their meal. It was delicious with the turkey, dressing, cranberries, mashed potatoes, and much more. There was enough food to feed an army. Antoine saw her look at all the food.

“Do not worry,” he said as if reading her mind, “The rest of this food is being prepared and taken to a local women’s shelter.”

“That’s very thoughtful of you,” she said.

After dinner, Josey went into his living room area and was looking outside at the ocean. She felt Antoine walk up behind her. He could smell her perfume and his desire for her was building. He looked towards his bedroom and felt a twinge in his heart. “No” he thought, “I will not take her to that bed,” He reached out and touched her shoulder.

“They are cleaning up,” he said, “If you do not mind I would like to see your home.”

“All right,” she said.

They left Antoine’s condo and went next door to Josey’s. She opened the door and let Antoine in. Her condo was laid out in much the same way as his but she had dark wood accents and wall coverings. Her carpeting was a dark green and she had black, burgundy, and cobalt blue through out. Without speaking he made his way to her room and pushed open the sliding doors.

Josey followed him as he stepped inside. She had a queen size bed with burgundy colored silk sheets. It had a brass frame with scroll designs on the headboard. Her shades were drawn shut and since the sun was starting to set, it was getting dark in the room. She walked over to him as he stood looking at the picture on her nightstand. It was a picture of her with two younger girls.

“My sisters,” she said going over to him, “They are the only reason I go home for the holidays.” Antoine quickly turned to her and Josey stepped back in surprise. He grabbed her arms gently and pulled her to him, “Antoine,” she whispered.

“I wish to pleasure you again,” he said his dark eyes burning into her blue ones. “Please do not deny me,” he said leaning into her, “I will take your moans of pleasure as payment in full.”

“Yes,” she said hoarsely.

Antoine brought his mouth down on hers and he was greeted with her eagerness. She opened her mouth to him and clung tight as he ravaged her mouth with his tongue nearly stealing her breath. As he probed her mouth, she let out a moan from deep inside her. He backed her to the bed and she soon felt the softness beneath them. His lips didn’t leave hers as he lay on top of her.

He pressed his strong leg between hers and she welcomed the feel of him. She slipped her fingers into his long hair and pressed against him. He continued to kiss her as he felt along her waist and slipped his hand under her soft sweater. Her skin was hot as he glided his hand up to cup her breast in his hand. She pressed against him and let out another moan as he began teasing and playing with her nipples.

He slipped his hand back out and quickly undid the buttons on her sweater to expose her breasts to him. He started kissing down to her throat when he felt her hands on his back. She dragged her nails over his sweater and it made him shudder. She tugged at it and he soon felt it lift and he pulled back letting her pull the sweater over his head.

She pulled him back to her and moaned again as she felt his smooth chest pressed against her breasts. They kissed again before Antoine moved down and took a hard nipple in his mouth. She once again pressed against him as he suckled it and nipped at it with his full lips. He slipped his hand down and moved it under her skirt. He felt her nylons and the lace at her thigh as he moved his hand up. When he reached her buttocks he let out a curse.

“Fuck,” he said in a near growl, “What are you trying to do me?”

“What?” she gasped.

“I got hard seeing you without a bra, but you came to me with no panties as well,” he said as he pressed his lips to her ear, “You make it hard for me to keep my focus.”

“I’m sorry,” she said, “I just wanted to see what you would do.”

“I will make you scream with ecstasy,” he said as he kissed her fiercely.

Antoine moved down her body. He slipped his hand between her silken thighs and began to massage her as she pressed against him. She was wet and Antoine could smell how much she wanted him. He slipped a finger inside her and she cried out as he pushed into her. He thrust his finger into her repeatedly as she arched to meet him. He moved lower and soon Josey cried out as she felt his mouth come down on her.

She bucked wildly as he touched her and cried out under his onslaught. She had never been touched in that way and it was a mind drugging experience. Antoine’s tongue explored her as his finger probed her slick opening. She clutched at his hair and shoulders as he brought her to the edge repeatedly letting her teeter there. He had wanted to make her scream and he soon got his wish.

“Oh yes!” she cried as he worked her over, “Oh Antoine! Don’t stop, please make me cum!”

Antoine smiled inside to hear her beg for her release. He quickened the pace as her breath came hard and fast. Her legs were trembling and convulsing as he attacked her again and again. Finally, he kept a steady pace and soon he felt her buck and cry out in sweet release. He laid there for a moment as she trembled in the aftermath of his touch. He gently kissed her thighs as she began to relax and her breath returned to normal. He moved from her and moved up to take her in his arms.

He hugged her close and stroked her hair as she laid in his arms. As he held her, Josey could feel that he was rock hard against her body. She carefully slipped her hand down and undid the button on his slacks. He wasn’t wearing underwear again and she was able to quickly slide her hand between his thighs. He groaned into her ear as she began to stroke him.

“No woman has ever controlled me the way you do,” he said to her, “No other woman ever will.”

Antoine sighed as she kissed his lips continuing to stroke his sensitive member. She soon moved down on him as he rolled onto his back. She moved his pants further exposing him and then began caressing his shaft with her tongue. It amazed Antoine that she could be so gentle, yet so attentive to his needs. She took him in her mouth as he once again ran his long fingers into her hair. She moved on him slowly at first gradually building speed. Antoine clutched at her bedding with his other hand as she moved on him.

“Damn it woman,” he growled at her, “You will be my death.”

Josey quickened the pace feeling his body tighten as she did. She once again ringed her fingers around his manhood as she moved him in and out of her mouth. He released his hold on her and pulled her up. She grabbed him with her hand and continued to move on him as he arched to meet her. She felt his body tighten as he finally found his release and convulsed in her hand. He laid there as she disappeared from his side.

A short time later, she returned to him with a towel. He just laid there as she cleaned him up and then laid next to him. She felt him roll and then pulled her into his gentle embrace. He ran a strong hand up her back as she clung to him. He was falling in love with her.

“Antoine,” she said softly, “Will you stay with me tonight?” She held her breath waiting for an answer.

“Yes Cara,” he said, “I will stay with you.”

Josey moved from the bed and finished removing her clothes. He removed his pants and together they slid under the silken sheets. He pulled her to him and he soon felt her relax in his arms as sleep over took her. As he laid with her, his mind was racing. He was falling for her, which had to be the only explanation.

Since that night in the hotel Antoine had been turning clients away, and canceling appointments and not caring. Not that he needed the money anyway. He had enough saved and invested to live comfortably for the rest of his life. In addition, there was the money that Madam Stonewood had left to him when she passed. He had kept “working” because he enjoyed it, now there was only Josephine. She consumed his thoughts both in the day and at night. 

That was the reason he resisted taking her to his bed. Josey was special, she was delicate, yet brazen in some fashions, and she was a real lady not just a warm body. That is why in his heart he could not take her to his bed. It didn’t seem right to him to bed her there where he had been with so many other women. Josey deserved to be treated like a Queen.

He pulled back gently and looked down at her face. She looked like an angel as she slept in his arms. Her face was relaxed and a slight smile played on her soft lips. Antoine couldn’t help but reach out and caress her cheek. She moved to his touch and her eyes fluttered open for a moment. She smiled at him and closed them again as she nestled against his chest. He loved her.

The next morning when Josey awoke, there was a white rose on the pillow where Antoine had slept. There was a note as well. She sat up in bed and smelled the flower before picking up the note. She unfolded it and read it.

Dear Josephine,

I am sorry to have left your side so early but I have some business to attend to. (Not that kind of business) I would like to thank you for last night. You gave me something to truly be Thankful for this year. I will be with you again soon.

Until then, I will say Ciao.

Antoine

Josey fell backwards onto her pillows with a smile on her face. Despite herself, she was falling in love with Antoine and she wasn’t about to fight it.

It was just a few days before Christmas when Josey and Antoine arrived back in Wisconsin. It was cold but there was no snow on the ground as they drove towards her family home. Antoine was taken back when they pulled up to the gated house. It was a massive brick structure with pillars. It seemed to spread out in every direction. Josey stopped the car and looked at the house, he saw the sadness in her eyes.

“Josephine,” he said quietly, “What is wrong?”

“I’m sorry,” she said, “It’s just seeing this house reminds me of when my father was alive. Things were different then Antoine. We were all different then.”

Antoine reached over and caressed her cheek. She smiled at him and for a moment she forgot about her troubles. She could easily get lost in his brown eyes. He helped her from the car and carried their bags up to the front door. There an elderly gentleman greeted them. He led them inside and took the bags from Antoine. He looked around the foyer and it quickly became clear that Josey’s family had money. He heard a voice drift down the stairs at them.

“Josephine Anne Winters, what are you wearing?”

Antoine looked up to see a tall stately looking woman coming down the stairs at them. She was wearing a Chanel suit in pink with pearl earrings and necklace. Although she bared some resemblance to Josey she looked hard and cold compared to the woman who stood at his side.

“Hello to you too mother,” she said. He saw Josey tense and there was no hug, no kiss to greet her. Antoine’s heart ached for his love.

“Honestly, you could buy better clothes.”

“Mother please,” said Josey cutting her off, “Mother this Antoine Laconte my…”

“Fiancée,” said Antoine sticking out his hand to her mother. Josey tried to mask her surprise.

“Fiancée,” said her mother, “When did this happen? I didn’t even know you were seeing someone until a few days ago.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t know it was a secret,” he said, “Or perhaps she did not get a chance to tell you. I only asked her last night, we still have to go and pick out a ring.”

“I could give you the name of the jeweler we use,” she said, “I’m sorry I’m Rachel, Josephine’s mother.”

“Of course,” he said.

“Well I’m sure you two would like to relax after your flight. Given your engagement I assume you will want to share a room. I will make the arrangements. Josephine why don’t you show Antoine around the house and I'll see you later for dinner. You’ll be staying in the west wing.”

“Of course,” smiled Josey.

She took Antoine’s hand and led him through the house. She peaked into a door and then quickly pulled him in closing it behind them. She looked in his eyes as he stepped closer to her.

“Antoine,” she started.

“I’m sorry to drop that on you, but when I saw her and heard her tone of voice,” he said, “I did it to sort of shut her up. Plus would she let us share a room if we weren’t engaged?”

“Probably not,” she said.

“I saw the pain in your eyes when we arrived here,” he said caressing her cheek, “I will do everything I can to see that it doesn’t come back.”

“Oh Antoine,” she whispered.

Antoine cupped her face and gently pressed his lips to hers. She slipped her arms around his waist and hugged him close as he deepened the kiss. His heart ached as he held her to him tasting her sweet lips. He wanted to be with her in her heart and in her bed. His desire to make her his was growing with each passing day. He pulled out of the kiss and looked into her eyes.

“I think maybe I should show you the rest of the house,” she said.

“All right,” he said.

They left the library and she took him through the house showing him everything. They even had an indoor pool. Eventually they made their way to the west wing of the house. There was a large sitting room and several other rooms before they reached their room. Josey opened the French doors revealing the large bedroom. There was a large fireplace and a huge brass bed with a canopy and lace bed curtains. Everything was dark wood and brass. The carpet was thick and soft as they walked across it.

Antoine noticed their bags were unpacked and their things neatly stored away. He looked into the bathroom to see a whirlpool bath and a large shower. There were sinks for each of them and even separate medicine cabinets. He turned back to Josey who was sitting on the bed slipping her boots off. He went over to her and sat next to her. He reached out and brushed the hair from her face. She turned to him and smiled.

Before he could kiss her, there was a knock at the door. Josey stood up and went to the door. As she opened the door two girls came barreling into the room almost knocking her over. Antoine stood to his feet when he saw them. Josey giggled as she hugged her sisters.

“We just heard you’re getting married,” squealed one.

“We just had to meet him,” said the other.

Josey turned them to Antoine who was standing near the bed. Both girls fell silent as they laid eyes on him for the first time. Josey knew that Antoine did make one hell of an impression. She left her sisters and went to Antoine’s side. She slipped her arm around his waist.

“Antoine darling, these are my younger sisters, Jasmine, and Jacqueline,” she said, “Ladies this is Antoine Laconte, my fiancé.”

“Ladies,” he said.

“Wow,” said Jasmine, “You’re gorgeous!” Josey laughed lightly as her sisters studied him.

“No ring?” asked Jackie.

“I just proposed last night,” said Antoine, “We haven’t had a chance to pick one out.”

“He was completely spontaneous,” said Josey.

“We better go,” said Jazz, “We’ve got rehearsal for the Holiday pageant.”

They ran from the room and Josey watched after them. Antoine had noticed that they were a bit younger then Josey maybe sixteen or seventeen. In the few short moments they were there, he saw why she had come home. Despite the tension with her mother, she loved her sisters. She turned to Antoine and a serious look crossed her face.

“Maybe I should explain all this,” she said.

“What do you mean?”

“Well you’re not blind, you can see that my family has money,” she said.

“Yet you don’t,” he said.

“I do but I earn my keep,” she said sitting down on the bed, “When my father died he left each of us a trust fund. They were generous but they came with a catch. We had to be married by a certain time to a certain type of man. If we do as it is instructed in the will, we each inherit five million dollars. As much as that money would be welcomed I refuse to marry simply to get my inheritance.”

“That’s very admirable,” he said.

“My mother thinks it’s very stupid,” she said, “There’s a stipulation in there for her as well. She gets a type of stipend to live on for now. When I marry she gets the rest of her money from what I understand. That’s why she’s always bugging me to date and such.”

“Then an engagement should make her happy,” he said.

“It won’t,” she said, “Unfortunately, you are not what my father had in mind for me. Not counting the gigolo thing, you’re the opposite of what he stated. He’s looking for a young corporate lawyer type, not tall, dark, handsome, and foreign.”

“I see,” he said.

“It’s not like we’re really engaged, but in my mother’s eyes if I married you she would get nothing,” she said, “She will try to persuade you not to marry me.”

“I’ll put up a convincing fight,” he smiled.

That night they had dinner with her mother and sisters. They made idle chit chat and Antoine related how they met and had fallen in love. Her sisters thought it was romantic but Josey could see the wheels already turning in her mother’s head. She reached over and placed her hand on Antoine’s, he took his hand lifting hers with it and kissed it gently.

Soon they turned in and Antoine escorted Josey to their room. He closed the door behind them and he could sense the tension in her. He was silent as he took her hand and led her to the bed. He had her sit down and then knelt before her removing her shoes.

He went to her drawer and came back with a pink silk robe. He laid it next to her and disappeared into the bathroom. She heard the water come on and she assumed that he meant her to take her clothes off for her bath. She undressed and slipped the robe on, and then she waited for Antoine. He soon appeared in the door of the bathroom and held his hand out to her.

She rose and went to him. He took her into the bathroom and shut the door. He had lit a few candles and there were bubbles in the bathtub for her. She undid her robe as she felt his hands grasp it from behind. He slipped it off her silky shoulders leaving her standing naked before him. He took her hand and helped her into the tub.

She sank into the hot water and let out a contented sigh. As she rested against the tub, she felt Antoine reach up and let her hair down. He used his hands and slowly drew the water up to wet her hair. Once it was wet, he added shampoo and worked it through her long locks. She sighed as he ran his long fingers through her hair.

“Is that better Cara?” he asked.

“Yes,” she said, “Much.”

“I just wish for you to relax tonight and nothing else. This is another way for me to give you pleasure,” he said.

“And it does,” she smiled.

“Good,” he said.

After shampooing her hair, he rinsed it before moving on to the rest of her body. He took the soft cloth and ran it over every inch of her body as she let out sighs of contentment. When he was done, he helped her out and drained the water. He toweled her off and dried her hair as she sat between his legs in front of the fire. His touch was so gentle and tender it made her relax more against him. He soon saw she had fallen asleep. He wrapped her in a warm blanket and took her to the bed where he laid her down. After removing his clothes, he joined her holding her to him.

“I love you Cara,” he said softly. She only moaned but he knew in his heart that she loved him too.

The days passed and Christmas was fast approaching. She and Antoine had gone shopping for her family and for each other. Josey was looking forward to the pageant that night and the sleigh ride to follow. It had finally snowed and she could hardly wait to be alone in the sleigh with Antoine.

He looked handsome that night in his dark green sweater and black wool pants. His hair was neatly brushed and pulled back from his strong face. He let a smile cross his lips revealing those perfect white teeth. He was truly beautiful.

She wore black pants as well with a green sweater covered with glass beads. He couldn’t help but hold her to him as they watched the pageant. Josey remembered when she use to dance and sing on that stage with her father watching. Her sisters sang beautifully and when the show was over, they made their way over to the sleigh rides.

Antoine held her tight as they waited their turn. Soon the sled pulled up and stopped. The sun had set and the moon was out in full bloom as Antoine helped her into the sled. They covered up with the blanket as the sled took off. In addition, they could hear the bells on the horses jingling as they rode. It was a beautiful night and Josey was grateful for time alone.

The path was lit with electric lights and there was music playing in the distance. Antoine gazed at her waiting to see how long it would take to notice. She turned to him after a few moments and smiled. Her eyes sparkled and he could see it wasn’t just the moonlight, it was love.

“We’re coming up on the mistletoe,” said the driver.

“We don’t need it,” said Josey looking at Antoine.

“What?” asked the driver, as he turned.

He saw that Antoine and Josey were already in a heated embrace but he slowed the sled anyway as they passed under the Mistletoe. In that instant Josey knew in her heart that she loved Antoine. It didn’t matter that he was a gigolo, she couldn’t deny her feelings for him. She just had to get the nerve to tell him before they went home.

On Christmas Eve Josey’s mother had planned a huge meal for them in the formal dining room. Her grandparents came as well as cousins and such. Everyone flooded around Antoine and Josey congratulating them on their engagement. They had steak, lobster and crab legs instead of ham or turkey. It was a filling and enjoyable meal for all.

After dinner, they gathered in the living room to open presents. They each took turns and everyone opened their presents. Josey and Antoine had decided to leave their presents to each other upstairs until they were alone. As they finished opening their gifts Antoine spoke.

“I do have one last gift to give,” he said looking a Josey. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a ring box. She let out a gasp as he did, “We need to make this official.”

He opened up the ring box and removed the ring. It was a beautiful princess cut diamond set in gold with three round cut diamonds on each side arranged in a triangle. It was the most beautiful ring she had ever seen. He took her hand in his and slipped it on her trembling finger before kissing her.

Everyone clapped and Josey hugged him trying to keep from crying. She wanted so much for it to be a real proposal from Antoine. She loved him so much it hurt. She needed to know if she was “just business” or if his actions were a true reflection of his feelings.

As they were cleaning up, she noticed that Antoine had disappeared for a while. He soon came back and took her upstairs to open presents alone. They sat on the floor and ripped open their packages. For Antoine she had bought platinum cuff links with diamond accents, a silver chain, a new leather coat, and some silk pajamas. For Josey he had bought black leather boots with laces up the front, leather pants, sapphire earrings, and a diamond ankle bracelet as well as a burgundy satin teddy, with garters and nylons.

Before Josey could suggest they go to bed Antoine excused himself saying he had an important phone call to return. She let him go and decided to get ready for bed. She had to tell him how she felt. The worst thing he could do was say he didn’t feel the same. Something in her heart however told her he did.

Antoine stood outside on his cell phone. His breath hung in the cold night air as he checked his messages and tried to shake his anger down. Rachel’s words were ringing in his ears as he stood there.

“I know who you are and what you do Mr. Laconte,” she had hissed, “And I want you to leave my daughter alone.”

“I love your daughter,” he said.

“You love the money you think she has,” said Rachel.

“That’s not true, I didn’t even know you had money until I arrived here,” he said.

“I’ve heard it before Mr. Laconte. You know if she did marry you she would get nothing.”

“I do not love Josephine for her money. I love her,” he said, “Josephine has never given me a cent.”

“You are a gigolo Mr. Laconte, I find it hard to believe you know what love is,” she spat.

“Your daughter taught me how to love, and that is the greatest gift I could receive from her,” he said.

“I’m telling you this once Mr. Laconte. Leave my daughter alone or I will have you turned in.”

“Go ahead and try,” he said, “Josey is the only woman I’ve been with in the last three months.”

“Do you really think she could love you in return?” she asked, “A man who has sold himself to hundreds of women. Do you think she will ever truly trust you?”

“Yes,” he said, “Because she loves me as well.”

“She won’t when she finds out what you do.”

“She all ready knows,” he said, seeing it take the wind out of her sails.

“I’m warning you Mr. Laconte, do not cross me,” she said.

“I will give you the same advice,” he said leaving.

Antoine booked a ticket on a flight for later that night. If he was going to be with Josey he had to set things straight first. He would do right by her in every way he could, because he loved her. He made his way back upstairs to her.

When Antoine returned to their room Josey was in bed and appeared to be sleeping. She was wearing a platinum nightgown as she laid on her pillow. She looked so beautiful sleeping there. He unbuttoned his dress shirt and slipped it off laying it over the chair. He slipped his watch and bracelet off as well before starting to undo his pants. He looked over and saw Josey looking at him her head propped up by her hand. She pulled back the covers exposing her body and the space next to her in the bed. He looked at her for a moment.

“Come share my bed,” she said to him softly.

Antoine slipped his pants off and walked over to the bed. He laid next to her as she pulled the covers over him. He moved closer to her trying to anticipate what she wanted from him.

“What would you ask of me tonight Josephine?” he asked softly.

“Make love to me Antoine,” she said kissing him.

Antoine felt his heart race as the words registered in his ears. He pulled her close to him and kissed her deeply; his passion for her was rising quickly. His mouth left hers briefly as they looked at each other.

“Antoine,” she said.

“Shh,” he said anticipating what she was going to say, “I have never wanted your money Cara. All I’ve ever wanted was your sweet kiss, your soft skin, and your sweet smell. I just want to feel your body beneath me, to be buried inside you, to quench the thirst I have for you. Most of all Cara, I want your love.”

“Antoine,” she said softly.

“I love you Josephine,” he said to her, “There has been no one else since that first night in the hotel. There will never be anyone else, only you. I love you Josephine.”

“I love you too Antoine, and you can have all you want from me, all that I can give is yours for the taking.”

Antoine pressed his lips to hers as he pulled her close. Finally he would get to make love to her, to make her his completely. He kissed her lips and she eagerly opened them to him. His tongue swept through her mouth probing her, devouring her as he held her to him. She could already feel his arousal pressing against her as they kissed. His mouth left hers and she drove her fingers into his long hair as he kissed her neck and throat.

“Oh Cara Mia,” he said kissing her ear, “How I have longed for this moment.”

“I too Antoine,” she said.

“Tony,” he said.

“What?” she asked.

“Call me Tony,” he said.

Josey couldn’t think to question him she just moaned her agreement as he brought his hand up and cupped her breast. He took his thumb and began coaxing the sensitive tissue into hard peaks through her gown. He fondled her breasts through the material before he took the straps down revealing her breasts. He kissed them from the outer edge moving his way in as she pressed against him. He soon took a nipple in his mouth as she moaned and pressed to him more.

He slipped his leg between hers and felt instantly that she wore no panties. He felt the wetness on his thigh as she immediately started rubbing against him trying to gain some relief from the throbbing she was feeling. She could feel his erection pushing into her stomach as he fondled and caressed her breasts. He moved his thigh and dropped his hand between her thighs.

She let out a moan as he found her core and began massaging her. Her breath came fast as he massaged her and fondled her breasts. He slowly slipped a finger inside of her and she arched to meet him. He withdrew it as she let out a soft whimper. He pushed it back in harder this time causing her to cry out more. She was arching wildly and was incredibly wet as he teased her and caressed her body. Antoine ached to take her and then she spoke.

“Oh Tony,” she said, “Now, please take me now, I can’t wait.”

“As you wish Cara,” he said. He paused and looked around quickly.

“There’s a condom on the headboard,” she moaned.

Antoine quickly found it, ripped it open and slipped it on. He positioned himself between her legs again and she opened to receive him. He guided himself in shuddering at the tight fit. He felt something but wasn’t sure what it was as he soon slipped comfortably into her. He paused for a moment looking at her. She met his gaze and didn’t turn away. He could see the love and desire mingling in her eyes.

“Now my darling,” she whispered, “Take me now.”

With that, Antoine withdrew from her as she let out a moan. He thrust into her again as Josey cried out in pleasure from the feel of him inside her. He thrust into her again and again, as she moaned and lifted to meet him. Antoine fought to hold on wanting her experience to be complete. He felt her nails on his back as he pumped into her faster causing her to cry out for him.

“Oh Tony,” she cried, “Yes.”

“Oh Cara!” he moaned into her ear, “My love.”

He rocked against her harder and she met each thrust as he pumped into her. He could feel her tensing under him and knew she was close. Finally he felt her arch wildly as she found her release. Antoine was still rock hard inside her, and she could feel it.

“I need you to stay with me Cara,” he said, “I need you.”

“Do what you need to,” she said.

Antoine slipped from her briefly and slipped his arms under her legs repositioning her. He opened her and guided himself back into her as he gripped her hips and began moving inside of her again. He began to thrust into her pounding her already tender opening as she cried out for him. He was on his knees thrusting as hard as he could finally free to let go. Finally, with a final thrust he climaxed and slumped over Josey.

His breathing was heavy as he tried to recover from the passionate release. He soon pulled from her as he felt her run her fingers through his hair. As he went to remove the condom fear tore through his heart, there was blood. He threw it out and turned his attention to Josey.

“I have hurt you,” he said to her.

“No you didn’t,” she said.

“Cara I must have,” he said pulling the blanket back and touching her between her legs, “There is blood.”

Josey didn’t know what to say when she saw he was right. It hadn’t hurt but she was now bleeding. Antoine looked upset as he gently cleaned the blood away. Josey sat up and looked at him.

“You are bigger then most men aren’t you?” she asked.

“Yes,” he said, “I believe average is five and a half inches, I am nine.”

“That could be it,” she said, “Did you feel anything while we were making love?”

“You were tight,” he said, “Something felt weird as if you were blocked but I dismissed it because you are not a virgin.”

“Could it be possible that if I was with a man who was say smaller then average my virginity might have stayed intact?”

She asked, “I mean with Doug it always kind of hurt but I never bled like I thought I was suppose to. He must not have been able to take me completely.”

“That may be,” he said, “As long as you are sure that I did not hurt you.”

“You didn’t my love, it was perfect,” she smiled and kissed him.

They laid back down and he held her in his strong arms. He soon felt her drift off to sleep. It pleased him to learn that he had been the first to completely take her. It truly made her his. As much as he hated it, he had to leave her side. He crept from their bed and packed his things quietly. He set the note he had written on the pillow next to her and kissed her forehead. He had much to do if they were to ever be together.

The next morning Josey awoke to see Antoine gone. She looked around and saw his suitcase was gone as well. A feeling a dread came over her as she saw the note on the pillow next to her. She was trembling as she picked it up and opened it.

Cara Mia,

Please forgive me for leaving your side. I need you to know that I love you very much and that is why I have gone. If we are to have a future, I need to reconcile my past. I need you to trust that this is not an ending but a beginning. I will be in your loving embrace soon my tender flower.

Love, Tony (Antoine)

Josey clutched the note to her chest not fully knowing what he meant. He wasn’t leaving her, they weren’t breaking up, but she was now alone. A tear slipped down her cheek as she looked at the ring on her finger. She knew in her heart that she had to trust Antoine.

When she went downstairs for breakfast, she saw her mother at the sideboard getting a cup of coffee. She could see the sad look on her daughter's face as she fixed a plate of food. Rachel assumed she had been affective in running off her beau. Josey took a seat and felt her mother’s eyes on her.

“What is it mother?” she asked in disgust.

“He left you didn’t he?” she asked with a knowing smile.

“You said something to him,” said Josey her face turning hard.

“Josey,” she said in her insincere voice, “He is not the kind of man you should be with. The man is a slut, selling himself to the highest bidder.”

“You know nothing of Antoine,” said Josey, “He has been true to me.”

“It doesn’t matter. He’s gone now and if you would just marry some one like Clark Matthews or that Doug fellow you use to date we could all me so much happier.”

“You want to make me the whore?” said Josey standing up.

“What?”

“That’s what I would be doing if I married Clark or Doug. You want me to lay down and spread my legs for them just to get five million dollars,” she said, “I won’t do it. I will marry the man I love.”

“Marrying for love is foolish. When it comes to marrying a man most women would choose wealth over love every time, I did.”

Josey froze, her mother’s words still hanging in the air. Her father had loved her mother with every fiber of his being. He had made great sacrifices for her. She couldn’t believe that now she would stand there and defile their marriage.

“You bitch,” said Josey, “You used him. It was never about love you just wanted daddy’s money.”

“And I’ll have it too just as soon as you marry right,” she said.

“How much do you get?” asked Josey, “How much am I worth to you married?”

“Twenty million dollars,” she said coolly. Josey walked over to her slowly.

“You’ll never see it,” she said in a near hiss, “I will marry Antoine, and you will never see a dime.”

“He stops whoring and the money stops coming in,” said Rachel, “How long do you think you’ll last on your salary?”

“I’d rather be poor and have a lifetime with Antoine, than be rich and live without him,” she said.

Josey left the room and raced upstairs. She knew what the note said but she had to be sure that Antoine knew she loved him. She packed her bags as her sisters came in looking on in shock.

“You’re leaving?” asked Jazz.

“Yes, I must get to Antoine,” she said, “Mother has filled his head with lies.” Josey zipped her bag shut.

“I wish we could go with you,” said Jackie. Josey went to her sisters.

“I’ll be back for you soon. Somehow I promise we will be a family again.”

She hugged her sisters and kissed them before leaving the room. As she came down the stairs she saw her mother standing in front of the door.

“Josephine if you leave this house to go after that man you will regret it for the rest of your life,” said Rachel.

“You know I’m glad my father isn’t here to see what a conniving bitch you are,” said Josey.

“How dare you speak to me like that,” she hissed and lowered her voice, “You leave and I’ll pack your darling sisters off to boarding school. You’ll never see them again when I’m through.”

Without thinking, Josey pulled back and punched her straight in the mouth. She fell backwards against the wall and slumped to the floor. Josey walked over to her and leaned down to her.

“I’m done letting you push me around,” she said, “That’s something else Antoine taught me was how to stand up for myself. You so much as breathe wrong towards my sisters and you will never see the light of day that I promise. There’s an old saying mother, ‘You fuck with the bull, you get the horns’. You’d be wise to remember that.”

Josey walked past her mother and out to the waiting cab. She was soon on her way to the airport and hopefully on her way to Antoine’s loving embrace.

Josey’s chest tightened as she stood at Antoine’s door knocking. There was no movement, no sign of him. Her hand that was already throbbing from punching her mother was now going numb from being beaten against his door. His cell phone number was no longer in service and when she tried to e-mail him, it said the account was closed. There was no trace of him anywhere and her heart ached not knowing where he was.

Panic seized Josey when a few days later moving men showed up and began removing his things. Josey was too stunned to do anything. She sat on her sofa and just stared at the ocean. Stacy went next door to confront the moving men.

“What are you doing with Mr. LaConte’s things?” she asked.

“Sorry miss,” he said, “I can’t tell you that.”

“He’s a friend of mine. I want to make sure you’re not robbing him,” she said.

“Listen miss, we’ve got a work order here to take this stuff. Some goes to charity, some to the trash, and some to the new address, which you’re not getting so don’t ask,” he said.

Stacy left and went outside for a moment. She had to find Antoine and find out what was going on. Josey was terribly upset and despite the note he had left her, she felt she was losing Antoine. Stacy couldn’t stand to see her friend in such pain. She followed the movers when they left and hoped she would find Antoine, and find the underlying cause of this.

Antoine flipped his cell phone shut and set it on the table. The final details were falling into place and soon he would be with her again. Being apart from Josey was tearing at his heart but he had to be free of his past before he could make a clean start with her. An angry voice suddenly pulled him from his thoughts.

“You bastard,” he heard looking up to see a young woman glaring at him. He thought for a moment trying to place her.

“Stacy?” he asked.

“So you know who I am,” she said, “Good, now tell me what the hell you’re doing to my friend?”

“How do you mean?”

“Josey’s been at home crying her eyes out every night because of you,” said Stacy, “She’s freaking out.”

“Cara,” he said softly, “Why is she upset, I told her we would be together soon.”

“It’s been it’s been five days Antoine,” said Stacy, “That’s an eternity to a woman in love. Then to have your condo emptied. She was catatonic. She found out what her mother said to you and she went ballistic. She thinks you believed her. Antoine, she punched her mother out.”

“What?”

“She told her she would rather be poor and be with you, then be rich and live without you,” said Stacy, “She loves you.”

“And I love her, that is why I’ve been gone,” he let out a sigh, “I want to be rid of my past so I can be with her. I don’t want my mistakes coming back to haunt me later.”

“I’m sorry,” said Stacy, “I understand,” she said.

“Do not worry,” he smiled, “I will comfort my Cara Mia.”

Josey was slow to waken when she heard the knocking on her door. She rose from the couch and got to her feet slowly. She shook her head trying to shake the sleep from her mind as she went to the door. She opened it and there was a deliveryman standing there.

“Miss Winters?” he asked.

“Yes,” she said.

“Delivery,” he said, “Sign here.”

He handed her the clipboard and she signed. Her heart began to race as she saw the huge vase of white roses in his other arm. She handed the clipboard back to him.

“Here you go miss,” he said. She started to reach for a tip, “It’s been taken care of, have a nice day.”

“Thank you,” said Josey.

Josey turned and closed the door. The roses were beautiful and she hoped they were from Antoine. She sat them down and found a card nestled inside. She paused for a moment staring at it before opening it.

My beautiful Cara Mia,

A little birdie told me that you are in despair. My love, be assured that my love for you has not waned in the slightest, if anything it has grown. I am almost done with my task and I ache to be in your arms again. It will only be a short while longer before we will be together. Stay strong for me Cara.

All My Love,

Tony

A smile crossed her lips and a tear slid down her cheek. He still loved her and she felt a wave of relief sweep over her. She ached to be with him as well. She could hardly wait to see him and be with him again. He kept his promise and it wasn’t long.

It was New Year’s Eve day and Josey sat in her apartment. She was going into the second day since she had heard from Antoine and she was getting anxious to see him. She bolted from the couch as the doorbell rang. She yanked open the door to see a deliveryman standing there.

“Miss Winters?” he asked.

“Yes,” she said breathlessly.

“Have some packages for you,” he said.

The man brought in several boxes, which she signed for. She moved over to them and saw the card on top. She picked it up and opened it.

Cara Mia,

The moment has come. I will send a car for you tonight, at seven. Wear these items and come to me. All will be explained.

All My Love,

Tony

Josey tore the boxes open and started to prepare to see her love. She showered, and then carefully dressed with the items he had sent for her. There was a lace bra, strapless in burgundy, with a matching thong. There were thigh high nylons trimmed in lace. The dress was burgundy, strapless with a fitted bodice and straight skirt that hugged her hips. There was a slit up the front the revealed her legs. It was trimmed with rhinestones and had a chiffon train that hung in the back. The shoes were burgundy satin with ties at the ankles.

There was a matching beaded clutch purse, as well as black opera length gloves, and a black wrap. She had her hair pinned up with diamond pins with little ringlets hanging down. She put on the diamond earrings he had given her as well as the necklace, and ankle bracelet. Her doorbell rang at seven and Josey answered it.

“Miss Winters,” asked the older man.

“Yes,” she said.

“I’ve come to take you to Mr. Laconte,” he said offering his arm.

“Thank you,” she said.

She took the man's arm and he escorted her to the waiting Limo. He opened the door and helped her inside. She could feel her knees shaking as she rode in the car. They soon pulled up in front of a large house. It was a beautiful mansion made of cream stone with large arching windows. The car stopped and the man opened the door for her. He helped her out and she slowly made her way towards the door. Her stomach tightened as she became unsure. She forced herself to the door and knocked.

An older woman in a maid’s uniform answered the door. She smiled at Josey and took her wrap from her. She pointed Josey towards the living room. She walked down the corridor and soon stepped into an arch that lead to the living room. He turned to her and she froze.

“Cara Mia,” he said softly looking at her.

She was breathtaking in the gown he had sent her. He didn’t think it was possible that she had grown more beautiful in the time they had been apart. He could see it in her eyes; she was scared at that moment. He felt a pain in his heart realizing that he had hurt her, without meaning too.

“Cara,” he said softly, “Come and I will explain everything?” he held his hand out to her.

She took a breath and stepped down in the living room. As she approached him, he smiled. She seemed to glide towards him and his heart raced at seeing her. She was tentative as she took his hand. He had her sit on the sofa and he sat on the coffee table in front of her.

“Josephine, I am so sorry if I hurt you,” he said, “That was not my intension. I just had to get things straightened away so I could be with you.”

“What things Antoine?” she asked.

“That would be one of them,” he said, “My first name is not Antoine. I took that name when I started being a gigolo. My given name is Anthony.”

“Tony,” she said.

“Yes,” he said, “Antoine is the person I became in order to be a gigolo, he is no longer the person I want to be. To me Antoine is dead. It was Anthony who was pursuing you, and Anthony who fell in love with you. That’s who I wish to be.”

“But you moved without telling me. You cut off anyway for me to contact you,” she said.

“I know and I’m sorry but it was necessary,” he said, “I’ve spent the last several days letting down my clients,” he said, “Antoine Laconte has gone out of business.”

“But why move?” she asked.

“Cara Mia, you are so very special to me,” he said taking her hand, “How could I take you to a bed I’ve shared with others? I would not dishonor my wife by making such a bed our marital bed. Come,” he said taking her hand.

Tony led her through the house and they soon came to a door. He opened it up and flipped on the light. The room was large with dark wood walls and floors. On the floor was the rug that had been in his condo, against one wall was his fish tank and on the wall his weapons. They were laid against a blue satin material now, the cross bow in the corner. There was also a desk with a computer and such set up.

“This is all that is left of Antoine,” he said.

“What’s with the desk?” she asked.

“I wish to make this your office,” he said, turning to her, “I know I gave you a ring Cara, but I never did do this properly.”

He took her hand and dropped on one knee in front of her. Josey’s eyes filled with tears as she looked in his soft brown eyes. It was the moment she had been waiting for.

“Josephine,” he began, “A long time ago a woman hurt me. At that moment, I never thought I would be able to trust and love a woman that way again. Then you came into my life and changed everything. You showed me what love really was and now I can’t live without it. I can’t live without you. I would consider it an honor if you would be my wife. Josephine, will you marry me?”

“Yes,” she smiled, “Yes, I’ll marry you.” He stood up and pulled her into his strong arms, “I love you Tony.”

“I love you too Josey,” he smiled.

He leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. She sank against him as his mouth devoured hers in a hungry kiss. She slipped her arms around him and clung to him. He ran his hands up her back and pulled her ever closer. He soon tore his mouth from hers and looked at her. Her face was flushed and her breath coming fast as he looked at her.

“I wanted to have a special evening with you,” he said.

“All I want is you,” she said in a low tone, “I need to feel you inside me again.”

“As you wish Cara,” he said.

He scooped Josey into his arms and strode through the house with her. He opened the bedroom door and kicked it shut behind him. He took her straight to the bed and gently laid her down. She tossed her purse aside and quickly removed her gloves so she could feel him. He untied her shoes and slipped them from her feet before going to her again.

He came up and again claimed her mouth as she softly moaned. He had missed her taste, and longed to feel her soft skin against his. As they kissed, he reached behind her finding the zipper to her dress and slowly drawing it down. He slipped his hand inside touching her soft skin. His mouth left hers kissing up to her ear as he held her to him.

“I love you so much,” he said, “And I’ve missed you.”

“I missed you too,” she smiled.

He tried to be gentle as he removed her dress but the urge to feel her skin was nearly overwhelming him. He slipped it off and removed his jacket before going back to her. He kissed her again as he hovered over her and he felt her reach up and undo his shirt. She then pulled it from his waistband and tossed it aside. Now he reached to remove the last barrier between them and he removed her bra. The feel of her firm breasts against his chest made him give out a soft groan.

He brought his hand up and cupped her breast with his large hand. He massaged and caressed her breasts before taking a hard nipple in his mouth. He sucked it and nipped at the sensitive tissue as she pressed against him. She wanted to feel him against her and parted her legs to him. He immediately slipped his thigh between hers and felt her heat as she began to rub against him.

“Oh Tony,” she said, “I need you inside me,” she gasped.

“Cara,” he said softly.

“Please,” she sighed, “We will have a lifetime to linger.”

“As you wish,” he smiled.

He quickly removed his pants and Josey noticed he still wore no underwear. He reached up and pulled her thong off leaving the nylons. She looked at him as he did.

“Leave them on,” he smiled, “It’s erotic.”

He found a condom and quickly opened it slipping it on. He positioned himself between her long legs and guided himself into her. He once again found her tightness on him a mind-bending experience. He held still for a moment feeling her muscles caressing his erection adjusting to his size. It thrilled him to be buried inside her. He could see the desire in her eyes as he leaned down to kiss her. She caressed his cheek and met his gaze.

“Now,” she said in a sultry tone.

Tony withdrew from her as she sighed. He thrust into her as she let out a cry of pleasure. He slipped his hands under her back and to her shoulders as he thrust into her. He could feel her tightening and straining against him as he drove deeper into her. Their gazes locked on each other as he pumped against her. Soft moans broke from her lips as he started to go faster. She dragged her nails over the taunt muscles in his back. She moved her hands down to grab his buttocks as he continued his assault on her. She cried out to him.

“Oh yes!” she cried, “Oh harder Tony. Fuck me harder.”

He nearly lost it when he heard her swear like that. Instead, it drove him to do as she asked. He thrust into her with every ounce of strength he had as she cried out. His cheek was next to hers and he could feel her breath in his ear as she panted and moaned.

Finally, he felt her tighten on him as she bucked wildly beneath him. She cried out one last time as she found her release. With a few final thrusts, Tony found his release and buried his face in her hair. He felt her hands come up, to stroke his back and hair as he rested against her. He went to move from her and she stopped him.

“Not yet,” she said softly hugging him. He could feel her body still shaking and he held still for her. She soon relaxed beneath him and he carefully moved from her. He looked in her eyes and she blushed.

“What?” he smiled.

“I can’t believe I said that,” she said blushing in his arms.

“It’s all right,” he said, “At that moment it was what I wanted to hear,” he kissed her lips.

“I love you Anthony,” she smiled, “But that will take some getting use to.”

“I love you too Josephine,” he said gently, “And we have all the time in the world now,” he kissed her again as she hugged him close. At last, he felt complete.

“Do you Anthony take thee Josephine to be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold from this day forward, and forsaking all others be faithful unto her, for as long as you both shall live?” asked the man.

“I do,” said Anthony.

“And do you Josephine take thee Anthony to be your lawfully wedded husband? To have and to hold from this day forward, and forsaking all others be faithful unto him, for as long as you both shall live?” he asked her.

“I do,” said Josephine.

“The rings please.”

J.C. handed the rings to Anthony who handed them to the clergyman. He took Josephine’s hands in his and looked at her. She had her hair pulled back at the side with a flowered wreath on her head. Her dress had spaghetti and a v-neckline. It was long and flowing, made from a light material that trailed behind her as she had walked to him. It had little white pieces of material on it that looked like leaves. She was so beautiful and Anthony was lost in her beauty.

“Anthony if you will take this ring and place it on Josephine’s finger and repeat after me,” he said, “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and fidelity to you.”

“I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and fidelity to you,” said Anthony as he slipped the diamond band onto her finger.

“Josephine,” he said handing her the ring, “I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and fidelity to you.”

“I give you this ring as a symbol of my love and fidelity to you.”

“By the power vested in me by God and the state of California, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride,” he said.

Anthony stepped forward and slipped his arms around her slender waist. He gazed into her eyes and saw the flash of desire in her blue eyes. He lowered his mouth to hers and gently kissed her soft lips. Finally she was his wife. They parted and Jasmine handed her sister her bouquet. They turned to face their family and friends as the clergyman spoke.

“Ladies and gentlemen, may I present Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Laconte,” he said.

Everyone clapped and rose to their feet as Anthony escorted his bride back down the aisle. The ceremony had been perfect. Josey’s sisters were her maids of honor and it was great. She had to admit that she did miss not having either of her parents see her get married but Anthony’s family was there and made her feel very welcomed.

To them Josey was a Godsend, bringing their son back to the gentle soul they had known in Italy. She now had a large family with Anthony’s six brother and sisters, three each. They were so sweet to Josey and treated her like a daughter from the moment they met her. She truly felt she belonged.

They gathered for pictures and Josey was in heaven as she posed with her husband. He had worn simple white slacks with a white silk shirt that fell past his hips. He wore sandals as she went barefoot wearing only beaded foot bracelets that slipped over one toe.

As he held her in his arms she couldn’t help but feel relieved, now that they were married she felt free of his past. It didn’t bother her so much that he had been a gigolo now that she understood how he came to choose that path. She knew that if he hadn’t walked that painful path he wouldn’t be the man he was today, the man she loved.

As they finished the pictures and started to head to the reception he pulled her aside. He pulled her into his arms and pressed his lips to hers. She laughed as he kissed her and she pressed against his body. She was finally his wife.

“Cara Mia,” he said softly, “My beautiful bride.”

“Anthony,” she sighed, “My handsome husband, mi amore.”

“Ah, a pet name for me?”

“If you wish,” she smiled.

“I ache to be alone with you,” he whispered, “To feel your body beneath me.” His lips nipped at her ear.

“Anthony,” she sighed against him, “You have no idea what you do to me when you say those things.”

“Tell me Cara,” he said softly.

“You make me wet,” she said licking his ear. He let out a low growl.

“And you make me hard,” he whispered back.

“We have to go,” she said, “They’re waiting for us.”

“You, unfortunately are right,” he said, “But we will take care of this soon.”

Anthony was true to his word as he led her from the reception. He was eager to get to their hotel suite and start their wedding night. All through the dinner she had been caressing his thigh and slipping her hand down between his legs. It was shear torture to have her tease him in such manner. Now as he opened the suite door he swept her into his powerful arms. He took her inside and kicked the door shut once again. He held her in his arms kissing her mouth in a frenzy of passion.

He set her down and she pushed away from him. She went to her bag and gave him a smile. He knew that she had bought something special to wear that night. She disappeared into the bathroom and Anthony changed as well. He slipped on the white silk pajama bottoms and waited for her.

Soon the bathroom door opened and he looked up. She was wearing a white lace and silk teddy. It hugged her full bosom and accented her slender waist. She had garters and white thigh high stockings with lace and pearl accents. She walked over to him and he smiled at her as she approached.

“You like it?” she asked.

“Come here and I will show you how much I like it,” he growled.

He pulled her to him so that she straddled his lap. He reached up and ran his long fingers through her silken hair. He could hardly believe how much his life had changed in one year. A year ago he was selling his body, then she moved in and stole his heart. She looked at him seeing tears pooling in his strong eyes.

“Honey, what’s wrong?” she asked.

“Nothing darling,” he said, “Everything is all right, my precious blossom.” Now it was Josey’s turn to cry.

“Why do you cry Cara?” he asked now.

“My father use to call me that,” she said, “But it’s all right. It sounds nice coming from you, mi amore.”

“Cara Mia,” he whispered.

He claimed her mouth in a searing kiss that nearly stole her breath. Anthony lost all thoughts of savoring the moment and just longed to feel her. He made quick work of removing her clothes trying not to rip the delicate material. She had been ready for him since she laid eyes on him that very afternoon at the ceremony. All through the service she ached to be under him, to feel him inside her.

He felt it as soon as he slipped his hand between her thighs. She was wet and he could feel the warmth powered by her need for him. He quickly slipped inside her for the first time truly feeling her. He struggled to maintain control as he moved inside her. Without the condom between them the sensation was intense and it was driving him crazy.

Josey cried out as Anthony thrust inside her. She lifted to meet each powerful thrust as he plunged his long shaft deeper into her. It had been so long since he had truly felt a woman and now it was with his beautiful wife. She clutched at his back and buttocks as he pumped against her. He drove into her faster as she cried out for him. He locked eyes with her and he saw the flash in her eyes as she tensed finding her release. She bucked underneath him and he followed soon after.

Anthony laid in his wife’s arms as she caressed his back. He didn’t move for a long time, he just laid with her as she stroked his back and ran her fingers through his long hair.

Finally he lifted up and looked at his wife. A tear slipped down her cheek as he caressed her face. She was finally all his and he knew that her love had saved him. She had brought him back to the man he use to be, the man who knew how to love, how to feel, how to care. She had single handedly caused the fall of Antoine Laconte, and for that he was grateful.

The End

Ghosts of the Past