“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 be 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 and 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 over sensitive and in turn making it hard to climax.  Other women would bit or suck to 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 you 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 then 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, 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.  

“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 strong taste but it was rich, which he like.  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 was 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.”

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 slid 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 need.  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 ideal 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 all ready 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 off, 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.

~*~*~

They 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 there 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 they 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 all ready in a heated embrace by 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.

“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 all ready 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 errection 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 thrusted into her again as Josey cried out in pleasure from the feel of him inside her.  He thrusted into her again and again, as she moaned and lifted to meet him.  Antoine fought to hold on wanting her to 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 all ready 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 bleed like I thought I was suppose to.  He must not have been able to take me completely.”

“That maybe,” 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 the pillow next to her and kissed her forehead.  He had much to do if they were to ever be together.

~*~*~

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)

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 daughters 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 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 men 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 know 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, then 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 as 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.

~*~*~

~*~*~

“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 loosing 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.

~*~*~

“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.”

~*~*~

“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 weaned 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

~*~*~

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

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 perusing 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 his 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 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 with drew from her as she sighed.  He thrusted into her as she let out a cry of pleasure.  He slipped his hands under back and to her shoulders as he thrusted 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 thrusted 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 so 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 with 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 God send, 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 gather 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 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.”

~*~*~

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 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 thrusted 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.