What Emma Craves (23 page)

The sun was going to set very soon.

“They do everything perfectly right here,” Antonio agreed. “I’ve tried to inquire about becoming a partner, but they shut me out every time. There’s no interest. It’s a family-run business. But they have all this acreage.” He gestured to shore. “They could expand and make a lot more money.”

“Maybe for once it’s not about the money,” Mallory said. “Maybe they just enjoy living here, and that’s enough. I think it’s very American to want more, more, more. We can’t seem to get enough of anything. We want more money, sex, power, fame, you name it. It’s tiring as hell. I envy them for this island and the simple life.”

Charlotte nodded her agreement.

The girls were all dressed casually in sundresses, the guys in linen pants and T-shirts. It felt like a normal night out, and Emma was enjoying it immensely. “I totally agree with Mallory,” Emma commented. “We are a society of we-can’t-possibly-get-enough, and I love that this resort is so small. It feels intimate. If it was any bigger, it would feel like a commercial spot.”

“Maybe so,” Antonio said, “but I can tell you there’s more island this resort can utilize without taking away its integrity. Have you guys explored the beaches around the island?” He addressed Pete and Emma specifically.

“No,” Emma answered sheepishly, “but we plan to. I’ve only been out on a few runs, but I think we’ll ride the bikes tomorrow.”

“If you head toward the opposite end, on the resort side, you’ll come to this beautiful horseshoe beach. They could build a few villas over there for folks who really wanted to be secluded, like us”—he gestured around the table—“who like to vacation together, but would like it to be exclusive.”

Mallory snorted. “I do agree with that. I’d book out a private beach just for me and my crew.”

“See, that’s what I’m talking about.” Antonio nodded. “I’m going to leave them my info again, along with a proposal before we go. Why not? It’s a missed opportunity.”

“When are you guys leaving?” Emma asked Antonio. “Mallory leaves tomorrow. Are you guys staying a full week?”

“No, we’re leaving day after tomorrow. We’re taking the yacht to another island before we fly out,” Antonio answered. “You guys are welcome to join us if you’d like.” He smiled.

“That’s a nice offer,” Pete replied. “But we’re enjoying the villa and the island. Emma and I will likely stay holed up for the rest of our vacation, only venturing out when we have to.”

Emma added, “We love not doing anything or having to be anywhere. The last three days have been heaven. I’ve read an entire book already! It would normally take me weeks to finish because I’m always so busy and worn out after a long workweek. We also have no desire to meet up with the Cheris and Harrys of the resort. You guys are an exception, not the norm.”

“Yes,” Charlotte agreed. “There’s a mixed bag here for sure. But there are some normal couples, as you’ll see tonight. They keep to themselves, or only meet up for small gatherings. The pool party is where the real fun is. People tend to come out of their shells. I mean, why spend all the cashola if you can’t indulge once in a while?”

“Let’s skinny-dip as the sun sets,” Mallory said. “That’s my last night’s request to you guys. Remind me to get your e-mails before the party so I can keep you informed about Fuck Me Island.” She laughed as she stood, stripping off her dress in one motion. She tossed it aside without a care in the world. “Antonio, I’m holding you to your promise that you’re still sending me.” She waltzed down the stairs, beckoning back to the table with a curled finger. “Come on, you guys! Last one in has to make me come hard tonight, no backsies.”

Everyone glanced around.

“Let’s go,” Charlotte said, standing. “That girl is hot enough to make me bi, I’m telling you.”

Emma got up from the table and peeled her dress off, discarding it on the railing as she followed everyone down. Pete was just ahead of her, but his hand reached back to clasp hers.

She smiled.

This was going to be a great night.

* * *

 
“Damn!” Pete exclaimed as they walked into the pool area. “I don’t even recognize it.”

“I know,” Mallory replied. “I told you they do it up.”

“It looks like a dream,” Emma said.

Not only were more lights strung from the trees, but pieces of fabric were interlaced above them. The entire place had been transformed into an exotic tented harem. Pete could get into this. There was a bar set up at the far end of the pool, the bartenders all bare-chested.

“Let’s get a drink,” Charlotte announced, leading the group that way.

Music was playing. It was an old rock ballad. Pete spotted the DJ on the other side of the pool. He was also naked from the waist up. The staff who worked the pool party must be accepting of the lifestyle. No one seemed to be the least bit bothered.

Several couples were in the pool and some on the double loungers. Pete couldn’t see the two smaller pools past the waterfall because of their angle.

He followed everyone to the bar. When it was his turn to order, he said, “I’ll take a beer, whatever you have is fine. Thanks.”

After everyone had been served their drinks, Mallory motioned. “Come over here. There are some cabanas open.” On the far side of the pool, Pete spotted a few tent structures set up. Inside, there were several couches with a long table in the middle. It was meant to be cozy, and it worked.

“This seems like a lot of work for just one party,” Pete commented as they sat. “Do they really do this once a month?”

“They have this place down to a science, so I don’t think it takes them that much time,” Antonio answered. “They do this party monthly, but they also cater special events and throw parties and theme gatherings during the year. I’d actually love to spend New Year’s here, but it’s booked out several years already.”

Emma sat down next to him. Pete was oddly anticipatory about how the night was going to turn out. It could go a number of ways, but he’d been serious when he told Emma that he wanted it to be about them. Thinking that she might change her mind and want to be with someone else made his chest feel tight again. He hated that feeling, but at least now he understood what it meant.

He couldn’t believe it had taken so many years for him to feel anything like it, but he couldn’t fault Emma for being the perfect companion. She had spoiled him in a way he could now be thankful for and appreciate.

She was the only girl he’d ever loved.

Emma stroked his thigh. “So are people going to be fucking all over like they do at an orgy?” she asked the group.

“Pretty much,” Mallory answered. “The pool is the main draw. Next are the loungers where I found you two the first night. I say we meander to the pool after we finish these drinks.” She held her cocktail aloft. “I don’t know about you guys, but I plan to come a few times tonight. Who knows when I’ll be on the receiving end of human touch once I get home? If I don’t come by my own hand, there’s not a lot of coming to be had for me in New York. It’s a sad state of affairs. I think feeling sorry for me is in order.”

“That’s why the dating island Antonio is sending you to will be perfect,” Emma said. “I’m sure you’re going to find someone there! I’m excited for you.”

“Don’t hold your breath. You’re much too lovely to perish in such a way,” Mallory said. “I’m not at all optimistic, but that’s okay. I plan to enjoy myself to the fullest, stock up on orgasms, and drink like a fish. That will tide me over until the next time I come here. Antonio,” she called, “so when are you sending me on this adventure anyway?”

“Oh, so now you want the details?” He chuckled.

“Nope, not details. Just merely interested in the roundabout timetables.”

“If all goes well, we’ll be ready for clients at the beginning of next month. I have your e-mail, and if you haven’t changed your address, we’re good. That’s how my secretary will get a hold of you. She’ll be setting it up.”

“Sure,” Mallory said, “when we’re here, we’re all friends and exchange sexual favors. But when we’re home, it’s all secretaries and official business.”

Antonio arched a look at her. “I’m assuming my secretary will be going through your publicist, correct?”

Mallory shrugged. “Well, yeah, okay, but so? It’s all so impersonal! I remember the days when people talked on the phone and were real friends, not fake ones.”

“Chickie,” Charlotte said. “You’re barely twenty-three. I’m pretty sure most people had cell phones and were connected to the Internet before you were six. You probably grew up only texting.”

“Stop harshing my mellow,” Mallory complained. “I’m just sad to be leaving all you guys tomorrow. If you must know, my real life totally sucks. There’s no one who’s real
in
it. Here, I feel like I used to when I was younger. Relaxed and happy.” She glanced at Emma. “If you guys decide to come down here again, I’ll hop on a plane and meet you if there’s an opening.” She glanced around the group. “In fact, we should all do this again over the same week. This was one of my best trips here.”

Charlotte shook her head sadly. “I likely won’t be back any time soon, but I’m hoping your private island trip works out, because when Antonio dumps me for a different flavor, I’m making him send me. Maybe while I’m there, I can find another guy who can afford to bring me back here, because on my salary, it’s not happening.”

Antonio cleared his throat. “You need to stop talking like that,” he told her. “We’re doing great together. I like what we have. Let’s not spoil it.”

“I like it, too,” Charlotte said, smiling sweetly as she took a sip of her drink. “But let’s face it, we’ve known each other for years. I know who you are. And I want you to make a promise right now in front of everyone that, to soften the blow of breaking my heart, you will be sending me to Fuck Me Island when you’re done with me.”

“Fine,” he said. “I’ll send you, but that’s a long way off, so let’s just enjoy the rest of the week on the boat, shall we?”

“We shall.” Charlotte nudged a toe against Mallory’s leg. “I’m giving you my e-mail. Keep me posted. And if Tonio backs out of his offer, you’re my key witness.”

“I’ve got your back, girlie,” Mallory said as she stood up. “Now let’s have some fun. Everyone done with their drinks?” She rattled her empty glass. “I think we need another.”

Before anyone could respond, there was a shriek, followed by a high-pitched squeal. “Here you guys are! I’ve been looking all over for you. Now we can start this party!” Cheri stood in front of the cabana totally naked, her huge boobs hard and unmoving, even though she’d been waving her arms around. Frankie, her husband, stood right behind her like a hulking shadow.

Pete heard Emma’s soft groan. He felt the same way. The only thing that could be worse was if Harry showed up—

“Hey there, gang!” Harry exclaimed, waltzing up with his wife, Jennifer, a beer in hand. The guy had on a Speedo, his usual attire, which Pete was pretty sure was a thong in the back. Honestly, Pete and Emma might be better off going back to the villa at this point. “Haven’t seen you two around, but now I know why.” Harry winked at them. “Hanging out with the elite crowd, I see. But you guys have come to the right place. This is the pool party of the century. It can get pretty darn wild here. It’s my favorite day of the month.”

Mallory had already been standing. “I’m just heading to the pool now. Can’t wait. See you all later!” She waved as she made a beeline out of the cabana, presumably to the bar for another drink. Pete wished he could beam himself to the pool just so he wouldn’t have to deal.

“Aw, come on, you guys, don’t leave yet!” Cheri cried as Emma stood up, Pete right behind her. “The party is just getting started.” She jiggled her chest, her boobs moving only a teensy bit.

Emma rocked her empty drink in front of Cheri. “We’re just going to go get a refresh,” she said, grabbing Pete’s hand and tugging him along. “I’m sure we’ll be back in a jiffy.”

Pete had to almost run to catch up with his wife. Emma had her hand over her mouth, stifling giggles. “Back in a jiffy?” Pete said. “When pigs fly.”

“Oh, my,” Emma said, choking back her laughter. “I would’ve said anything to get out of there. If that’s who we have to party with tonight, this is going to be a long night. I can’t manufacture sexiness with just anyone. It has to happen organically.”

“You don’t have to do any manufacturing.” Mallory turned from her spot by the bar with a fresh drink in hand. “There are a lot of great couples. Lucky for us, the Cheris and the Harrys here are few and far between. I’ve actually vacationed with Cheri and her gigantic knockers only one other time. Harry and Jen are pretty harmless. They keep to themselves. But there’s a great couple in the secluded pool, which is called Lovers’ Pool. Antonio told us to head in. Come on, and I’ll introduce you.” Mallory stripped off her dress, draped it over the railing that ran around the makeshift tiki bar, and stepped into the pool.

“We need a drink first!” Emma called to her retreating back. “Then we’ll join you.”

“Sounds good!” Mallory tossed over her shoulder.

22

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T
he pool was like a dream. Once they were handed their new drinks, Emma disrobed, draping her sundress next to Mallory’s. Instead of being completely naked, Emma had worn the scarlet bikini bottoms Piper had purchased for her.