 
### Table of Contents

Title Page

Dedication

Book Description

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Excerpt-The Baller's Baby Book Two

COMPLETE SABRINA SIMS MCAFEE BOOKLIST

From the Desk of Sabrina Sims McAfee

About the Author

SOCIAL MEDIA

# The Baller's Baby

**Babies & Beaus - Book 1**

Sensual Romance & Light Suspense

by

**International Bestselling Author**

Sabrina Sims McAfee

The Baller's Baby

Babies & Beaus - Book 1

**Copyright © 2015** by McAfee Publications & Entertainment

Editor: GWE

Sabrina Sims McAfee can be contacted via her website:

www.sabrinasimsmcafee.com

# **Dedication**

For my sister-in-law, Temyka:

God blessed me when he gave me you for a sister-in-law.

Thank you for always being you, and for being supportive.

Loving you always,

Sabrina

# Book Description

London & Camille

The first time I laid eyes on football quarterback, London Cunningham, water streamed into my mouth. My nipples started this tingling thing, and my heartbeat skyrocketed. And when he placed his firm lips on mine for the very first time, I nearly jumped out of my skin, and lost it! I came to college to learn, but instead I'm falling in love.

***

Sophomore Camille Hastings never does anything but study. Ever so boring, when one of the editors for the college newspaper gets sick, she's called in to take her place. And then she meets him--star quarterback--London Cunningham.

Milk chocolate skin, hard muscular body, and handsome as ever...Camille feels a guy like London would never want her. To her pleasant surprise, her ordinary day leads into a hot autumn night. Filled with tender kisses, sultry romance, and --The London Cunningham. Oh my.

***

Football quarterback, London Cunningham, has a huge appetite for beautiful girls. As the star athlete and the main man on college campus, he can have any girl he wants. Not in the least bit interested in settling down, London lays eyes on beautiful Camille Hastings, and she instantly sets his soul on fire.

Day in and day out, London and Camille spend all their time together, and start to fall madly in love. However, unbeknownst to them, a wicked being lurks in the dark shadows, and is waiting to strike. Waiting to tear them apart.

# Prologue

**_San Francisco, California_**

**_1:15 a.m._**

Crouched behind the snow white Bentley inside the dark garage, Skylar Brooks rose to a standing position, then headed toward the back door of the Cunninghams' waterfront mansion. Clenching a gun in her glove-covered hand, Sky's breathing labored. _You're going to pay for what you've done to me. Both of you will pay. Tonight._

With murder on her mind, Sky gripped the door knob, entered the fifteen thousand square foot estate on the Pacific Ocean, and then quietly shut the door behind her. Now inside the dark kitchen, bitter anger pumped through her veins like deadly poison. _I can't wait to see the look on their faces when they see me. When I kill them._

Wearing all black clothing and black hiking boots, Sky strode quietly towards the den. Silence loomed in the air. Heart thudding wickedly, her eyes traveled around the spacious area. The spicy fragrance from cinnamon candles burning on the end table sailed into her nostrils. Burning logs inside the stone fireplace crackled with orange flames.

Looking to her left, Sky noticed a red, satin negligee strewn on the couch and boxer briefs on the floor. Anger twisted her heart. _They've been having sex_. _Camille, you stole my man._ _London was supposed to be mine. Mine!_

Tightly clutching the handle of the gun, Sky's heart pounded loudly in her ears. Beat harsh like drums at the base of her throat. Her eyes hiked up the wall to the hand painted picture of London and Camille Cunningham--the couple she hated. In the picture, smiles plastered the couple's faces. They'd taken the picture while vacationing in Paris with their rich, snooty friends. _I should've been the one with London on the Paris trip. Not Camille. Camille will no longer make a fool of me. That bitch is going to die tonight._

Thinking about London and Camille's ultimate betrayal, Sky's parched lips twisted. She turned away from the fireplace, quietly ascended the wooden staircase. When she reached the second floor, Sam Smith's song _Stay With Me_ sailed inside her ears. _They're still up. Probably having sex._

Breathing with agitation, Sky stalked down the narrow hallway, bypassing an expensive female sculpture propped inside a niche. Anxious to kill London and Camille, dread filled her as she stood outside of their cracked bedroom door with her back against the wall. Sam Smith's song assuaged her ears. _"Just stay with me. 'Cause you're all I need,"_ the talented artist sang.

Evil roamed around inside Sky's brain. About to strike, she brought the barrel of the weapon up to her chaffed lips, kissed it. _You took London away from me, Camille_. _And now you must pay._ She shuddered.

Disturbed, Sky emerged in front of the cracked double doors of London and Camille's master bedroom to find them naked in the bed. Kissing. Touching. Making wild, burning love. Seeing them like this, her heart shattered. She swallowed the cry pushing at her closed lips.

Engaged in the throes of passion, London raised Camille's legs over his broad shoulders and drove his stem into her womb. Bucking on her husband's shaft, a satisfying moan eased from Camille's mouth.

Tears welled in Sky's eyes. _It should be me in bed with him, not her._

Circling his hips, London's brown butt cheeks clenched. The rigid muscles on his toned back glistened with sweat. Stroking his wife, he wrapped his fingers around her ankles, thrusting her harder. The headboard banged against the wall.

Secretly watching the couple engage in heady sex, Sky's eyes narrowed. Her chest heaved up and down. Jealousy coursed through her veins.

Camille's sex squished. "Ahhh, London. That feels so good, baby. You're hitting my spot," she purred like a kitten.

London groaned hoarsely. "Do you like the way I bury my cock inside you?"

Nibbling her bottom lip, Camille squeezed her firm breasts. Ran thumbs over her erected black nipples. "Oh, yes. Give it to me. Harder. Harder. Oooo, London."

Rage consumed Sky as she secretly watched the couple engage in hot sex. _I hate you, Camille._ Hatred clawed. _How could you do this to me, London?_

Enough was enough.

Unaware of Sky's brutal stare, London and Camille became trapped in fiery sensations, pushing them toward powerful orgasms. While London twirled his stiff member inside Camille, she clutched his hard erection at the base and began pumping him.

London rolled his neck forward and groaned hoarsely. "I love when you touch my balls like that. You feel so good, Camille. I'm about to cum."

Camille's eyes hooded, her lips slightly parted. "Oh, London. I'm cumming. I'm having a clitoral and G-spot orgasm at the same time. Oh yeah, give it to me. Stroke me, baby. Stroke it." Camille's pleading filled Sky's ears. Pissed her off.

London groaned huskily. "I can feel you cumming on me, Camille. I'm cumming, too." His whole body tensed. He released a heavy breath. "Ahh, that was so damn good, baby."

Disgusted beyond measure, Sky stepped back outside the doorway. With her back pinned up against the wall again, she watched them from the slit in the door.

London withdrew his shaft from Camille's entrance, then dropped on the mattress beside her. Camille's lips pulled into a smile. "I have something new I want to try." She rolled over to her side, pulled open the drawer of the nightstand, retrieved a pair of handcuffs, then dangled them above London's face.

London's lips hitched. He chuckled. "Oh no, you're not handcuffing me."

Camille sat upright in bed, and then climbed on top of London. "I'm going to handcuff you. Just watch me." Camille circled her sex on his genitals, slapped the handcuff to his left wrist, and then bound him to the bedrail.

Still smiling, London yanked on the handcuff, and the whole bed shook. "When did you come up with this freaky idea?"

Camille snickered. "After I read the book Fifty Shades of Grey."

"Fifty Shades of Grey...I've been hearing a lot about that book around the office."

She climbed out of the bed. "Maybe we can go see the movie Saturday." Gazing down at her husband, she flicked his nipple with her index finger.

Swallowing, Sky's eyes raked over London's bare physique. His bare cock lay hard and thick against his flat abdomen. Covering his navel, the swollen head glistened with Camille's juices.

Remembering when she'd last made love with London, Sky flinched. How could I have ever loved you, London? You make me sick. You act like what we had meant nothing.

Peering up at his wife, London chortled. "I can never get enough of your sweet sex, Camille."

Spotting the lighter fluid on the end table, a naughty thought struck up inside Sky's brain before she turned and walked away. Reaching the laundry room, she pulled it open, hid inside, but left the door slightly cracked.

Camille snickered. "I'll be right back, baby."

"Where are you going, sweetheart?"

"To get some wine. I'm going to pour it on your balls, then lick it off."

"Well, hurry the hell up! I might like being handcuffed after all." London chuckles floated out the room.

Peeping through the slit in the door, Sky's irritation deepened. Suddenly, a naked Camille appeared in the doorway of her bedroom. Wavy black hair paraded down over her swollen breasts. Toned legs, flat stomach, curly strands of hair covered the triangular patch of her sex. _Bitch._

"I'm about to blow your freaking mind, Mr. Cunningham," Camille giggled, then descended the staircase.

_And I'm about to blow yours, Camille. Literally. With my gun._ As soon as Camille reached the first floor, Sky came out of the closet. She hastened inside the couple's bedroom suite, flicked off the lights. The room went pitch black. She shut the door.

"That was quick," London stated.

Sky put a finger to her lips. "Shhh." Gun in her grip, she strode over to London where he lay handcuffed and bound to the bed.

"Lay it on me, Camille," London begged, thinking Sky was his precious-could-do-no-wrong Camille.

Sky hefted the lighter fluid from the nightstand, flicked it on, the tip burned with fire. She slowly brought the burning tip of the lighter up to her face. Peering down at London, a wicked smile tilted her lips.

London's eyes widened with surprise. His lips gnarled. "What in the fuck are you doing here, Sky?" Yanking on the unyielding handcuff, he fought hard to set himself free.

"Shut the fuck up, you little shit!" Sky barked. Enraged, she slapped London hard in the mouth with the loaded weapon. Blood flew from his lips.

Bloody lips swelling, he grunted, "Leave, Sky. Now."

"I'm not going anywhere. You are. You're going straight to hell for what you did to me."

"You're sick, woman. I didn't do anything to you. What happened to you was the result of your own sadistic behavior. Camille, run! Call the police!" London's hoarse voice echoed inside the dark room.

Sky put the tip of the lighter to London's jaw. "I ought to set your face on fire for that."

Yanking hard on the handcuff, London growled. Brows dipped, he bared his snow white teeth. "You better be glad I'm handcuffed to the bed. If I wasn't, I'd strangle you with my own bare hands."

London's malicious words sliced Sky's heart in half. "You're so damn ungrateful." Sky quickly retrieved the duct tape from the pocket of her jacket, taped his mouth shut. The same mouth she'd once loved kissing. Frowning, London hollered, but the thick duct tape muffled his words. "I'm going to kill your precious Camille. You will spend the rest of your life knowing her death was all your fault. Something you could've prevented."

His lips moving beneath the tape, London grumbled. His eyes darkened. He got to his knees in the bed, clenched the handcuff, and yanked. And yanked. And yanked.

Sky turned and stalked out of the room, closing the bedroom door behind her. In search of Camille, she leaned into the iron railing and peered downstairs for her. _I'm coming to get you, bitch,_ she thought, her eyes darting back and forth.

Just as Sky turned away from the railing, Camille stormed up behind her and crashed a wine bottle to her wrist. The loaded gun flew from Sky's hand to the first floor.

Blood oozed from Sky's sliced skin as she stared viciously at Camille's flawless naked body. "You're going to pay for that!"

Camille's brown face contorted. "Get the hell out of my house, Sky!"

Enraged, Sky's heart hammered in her tight chest. "I'm not going anywhere. You are!"

London's boisterous voice resounded from the room all the way out into the hallway as he yelled, "Camille, run! Don't worry about me! Get out of here!"

Narrowing her eyes, Sky lunged forward and attacked Camille. Camille's body slammed into the wall behind her. Sky closed her fingers tight around Camille's throat and began strangling her. Gasping for air, Camille's eyes bulged. She tried hard to peel Sky's fingers from around her neck. "Die. Die. Die."

"Uuhhh," Camille wheezed, trying to inhale a bout of oxygen.

In a rambunctious tone, London pleaded, "Camille, if you can hear me, call the police! I'm handcuffed to the bed!"

Camille raised her leg and kneed Sky hard in the stomach. "Uugh!" Sharp pains rushed through Sky. Her hands flew from Camille's red neck to grip her belly.

Gulping for breath, Camille scurried down the hallway, then fled down the staircase to the first floor. On her like white on rice, Sky bustled down the steps, chasing after Camille.

Camille hurried up to the end table inside the den, snatched the phone off the receiver, and dialed. Glancing back over her shoulders at Sky, she whirled. Bottom lip folded, she put the phone to her ear. "Leave, Sky. Please. Leave."

Hearing the sounds of the roasting logs crackling inside the fireplace, Sky slowly closed the distance between her and Camille. She looked around the room for the gun, but didn't see it. "The phone is not going to work. I cut the lines." She laughed wickedly.

Refusing to waste one more breath on Camille's pathetic behind, Sky reached behind her back and drew a sharp blade from the holster she had attached to her hips. Holding the gleaming knife in front of her, Sky's head tilted. Her eyes roamed over Camille's naked body.

Fear hardened the soft lines on Camille's face as Sky slowly stalked towards her. Camille shook her head. "Even if you kill me...London will never love you, Sky. He loves me. Me."

Sky's heart splintered. "Once you're dead, he'll forget all about you." Sky raised the blade above her shoulder and charged Camille.

Camille jumped out of the way. Sky's hip slammed into the end table, turning it over. Burning candles plummeted to the floor, setting the carpet on fire.

Whirlwinds of insanity wracked Sky's brain as pain rippled at her hip bone. Camille took off running towards the kitchen. Gripping her aching side, Sky ran after her. Catching up with Camille right before she entered the kitchen, Sky plunged the knife in Camille's back. Crimson blood gushed from Camille and splattered Sky's shirt, her face, and the wall.

"Ahhh!" Camille's strides froze. Keeping her back to Sky, she dropped to the floor, landing flat on her face.

Orange, burning flames torched the family room. Smoke clouded the den, burning Sky's nose and throat. Glowering down at Camille's corpse, her lips twisted into a smile. _This is even better than I planned. London and Camille's bodies will be burnt to a crisp. All evidence will be destroyed._

The fire alarm blasted fiercely in Sky's ears. Her eyes snapped up from Camille's lifeless body to the alarm flashing bright red. _I got to get the hell out of here._ Running through a cloud of smoke, Sky exited the Cunninghams' waterfront mansion through the sliding glass door.

_The Cunninghams are finished._

# Chapter One

A Few Years Earlier

Three weeks before the much anticipated Thanksgiving break, the sun shined brightly over the campus of Howard University in Washington DC. Students walked along the sidewalks, and the emerald grass. Others sat on the lawn beneath huge oaks, while some tossed footballs in the air to one another.

In a rush to get to the library, Sophomore Camille Hastings exited her dorm room, walked down the narrow hallway, then descended the stairs located inside her building. Upon reaching the last step, Camille brought her wrist up to her face to look at the time on her watch. _Gosh, I need to hurry up,_ she thought, bursting through the double doors out into the warm afternoon air.

The humid air clung to Camille's face as she walked briskly along the sidewalk, heading towards the library. The senior writer for the university's well respected newspaper, _The Hilltop_ , had taken ill, so Camille had been called in at the last minute to take her place.

Thinking about the athlete she had to interview, Camille's lips curled up into a smile. _I can't believe I'm going to interview the star quarterback for the Bisons --London Cunningham. Yes._

Wearing denim jeans and a blue T-shirt with 'Bisons' written in orange across it, Camille felt she looked plain and boring today. Needing to spice up her appearance, she always looked simple like this. Her best friend, Skylar Brooks, often told her she needed to dress more fashionable instead of like an old maid. _Sky's probably right. I need to spruce up my clothing._ If Sky was interviewing London today, she probably would've worn a fancy dress with high heels. _Sky always dresses so pretty._

Camille gripped the library's door handle, flung it open, and entered the building. Feeling like a plain Jane, she mounted the stairs to the second level. Pushing her black glasses up the bridge of her nose, she walked down the quiet hallway. Passing rows and rows of tall book shelves, her heart ticked nervously beneath her breast bone. _Oh, God. London is so fine. I wonder if he knows I'm interviewing him instead of Sarah._

Reaching study room 2D, Camille grasped the doorknob, then entered the small room. London sat at a table inside the small room, looking down at his cell phone. At the sound of Camille closing the door behind herself, London lifted his head and their gazes connected. Her heart flopped over in response. _Oh my, he's so good looking. I need to calm down. A fine boy like London would never want a boring girl like me._

With an overly large purse strapped across her shoulder, Camille walked up to the table where London sat. "Hi, I'm Camille Hastings, a writer for _The Hilltop_. I'm going to be interviewing you today."

Beholding her gaze, London stood, then extended his hand towards her. When Camille placed her palm in his rough, callous hand, heat coursed through her veins and she just about melted. "Nice meeting you, Camille. They told me some girl name Sarah was going to be interviewing me." His deep, masculine voice stirred her female senses.

"Sarah got sick, so they sent me to take her place." _And boy, am I glad I got to take Sarah's place._

Staring at London's handsome face, Camille's mouth watered. Milk chocolate skin and somewhere around six-two, London's jet black hair was trimmed low. Rigid chest muscles stretched beneath the Bison football jersey he wore. His biceps bulged like round stones. Stubbles of peppery hair covered his top lip. In short, London Cunningham was fine as heck.

Body warming, Camille dropped her purse in the empty seat to her left. "It's kind of hot in here."

London's eyes raked up and down her body. "It's not as hot as you," he boldly stated.

_No, he didn't just say that._ Blushing, heat spread through Camille's bones. Pretending as if she didn't hear him, she sat in the chair beside him. She reached into her overly large purse, extracted a note pad and a recorder.

Her hands flat on top of the notepad, Camille parted her mouth to speak, when suddenly London leaned into her. To avoid his lips from touching hers, she jerked her head back. "What are you doing?"

London's coffee-colored eyes roamed over her face. "I was just trying to get a closer look at your face. You have the cutest mole on your lip."

Well, she'd always thought the black mole on her top lip was rather ugly, and quite hideous. "Thanks for the compliment. Are you ready to get started on your profile?"

He leaned back in his chair, crossed his legs at the knees. "Only if you'll agree to have lunch with me after we're done."

_Oh, my goodness, he's coming on to me,_ she thought _,_ wondering why in the world would a guy like London want to take her out on a date. Considering he was a star quarterback football player and she was a plain Jane, his request to take her out on a date didn't make sense to her. Once he got to know her, he'd undoubtedly find her boring. All she ever did was study and read those romance novels. Rarely did she ever go out and party. In her opinion, she was way too simple of a girl for a hot guy like London.

Contemplating her answer, Camille recommended, "Let's just see how the interview goes first, and we'll discuss lunch afterwards."

He licked his handsome lips. "Sounds good to me, shorty."

_Shorty?_ Wanting to know everything there was to know about London, Camille hefted her pen. "Where were you born?"

"I was born in Jacksonville, Florida," he told her.

"How did your mother come up with the name 'London'?" she wondered.

"My mother named me London because she'd always dreamed of living there instead of the projects where we lived. Growing up in the projects was no joke."

"I bet that was rough. Are your parents still living?"

Sadness developed in London's eyes. "My mom is. She still lives in Jacksonville. In the projects. My father was murdered when I was in the ninth grade. While waiting on the city bus to pick him up from the bus stop for work, he was accidentally shot during a shootout. Just stupid."

Hearing about London's father's horrible murder, Camille's heart filled with gloom for him. "I'm so sorry to hear about your father."

"Thanks. My father's death made me a better man. It's the reason I'm pursing a law degree. If I don't make it into the NFL, I'm going to be a good attorney, the best. I'm going to prosecute the bad guys. Murderers. Criminals who are determined to break the law."

"What was your GPA in high school?" she asked.

"I graduated from high school with a four-point-six."

Camille admired London's achievement. "A four-point-six? Wow, that's great. You were determined to beat the odds, I see."

London nodded. "Yes, I was. I can thank my mother for that. My mother took me to church every Sunday. She pushed me to be my very best. You should've seen her when I walked across the stage at my high school graduation, graduating Valedictorian." Proudness shone in his eyes. "I'm stilled determined to do good. Well, at least I try."

"What's your current GPA?"

"Five point Two."

"Wow. That's impressive."

"Thanks."

Camille smiled. _He's handsome and smart. My kind of guy._ "So have you always played football?"

Leaning back in the chair, London stapled his fingers. "I've been playing football ever since I knew what a football was. When I was a little kid, my dad made me play, even when I didn't want to."

"Being that you're the starting quarterback for the Bisons, your hard work is paying off."

"Yep, it's paying off all right. I was offered six football scholarships from various schools, but decided to come here. The coaches here treat me good. Treat me like I'm their family. Scouts are already looking at me to play in the NFL. My coaches seems to think that I'll be a top pick."

"That'd be wonderful. I wish you luck."

"Thanks, shorty." Shorty? Well, compared to him, she guessed she was short.

Camille's interview with London lasted for about twenty more minutes. The two sat inside the small room, talking and laughing. There were a few serious moments as well.

Coming to a closing, Camille lowered her pen on the note pad. "Your story is going to inspire some young man to do his very best. To fight, even when the odds are stacked against him. Thank you for your time today, and for the interview," she said, admiring his perseverance and determination to be successful, despite his father's death. Despite growing up in the projects and being raised by a single mother.

"Ah. You don't have to thank me. Like Chick-fil-A say, it was my pleasure." Sitting upright in his chair, London slyly slid his arm across the table and cupped the back of Camille's hand. Butterflies twirled in her belly. "So what about that lunch date? You gon' let me take you out or what?" he asked, his thumb caressing her knuckles.

Flustered, Camille's insides grew hot and bubbly. She slid her palm from underneath his and placed the notepad in her purse. Regretfully, she answered, "I'm sorry. I would go, but I already promised my girlfriend that I'd meet her for lunch today." Strapping her purse over her shoulder, she stood.

London rose to his feet. "Well, how about you let me take you to dinner tonight?"

_I can't believe he wants to take me out._ She admired his persistence. "Sure...dinner is fine. What time?"

"What about eight o' clock?"

Camille smiled. "Eight sounds great." She couldn't believe she'd just gotten asked out by the finest man on campus--football quarterback London Cunningham.

"Good." He pulled his cell from his back jean pocket. "Let me get your number, and I'll give you mine." Camille extracted her cell from her purse, and the two exchanged cell numbers. "I'll call you later, right before I come pick you up."

"Okay." _You better call me, Camille thought,_ pushing the chair back beneath the table _._ As she walked toward the closed door, she felt London's eyes burning a hole in her rear. Grasping the doorknob, she glanced back over her shoulder.

"Oh, by the way...I will be picking you up for our date by feet because I don't have a car. I hope that's not going to be a problem."

"No. It's not a problem. I don't have a car either. I'm used to walking."

**LATER THAT EVENING** Camille rushed around her small dormitory room, searching for her silver loop earrings. She pulled open her desk drawer in front of the window, but they weren't there. Wondering where in the world she'd put them, she walked over to the tiny closet she shared with her roommates, drew it open, then checked the pocket of her jacket she'd taken to class on yesterday. _Empty._ _Where did I put my darn earrings? I need them so I can look good for London._

Camille turned and looked across the room at her roommate, Della, as she sat on her bed reading a book. "Della, have you seen my silver loop earrings?" she asked, unable to see Della's face for the book she held up in front of it.

Clenching the book in her hands, Della lowered the book from her face. Della's lips turned upward. "Yes, they're right here." She tapped her ear. "Don't I look cute in them?" The shiny silver loops did look great on Della.

Camille snickered. "Girl, yes, you look good in them. But you're going to have to take them off because I need them for tonight." Camille held out her hand. "I have a hot date. And you're never going to believe with who."

Della slapped her textbook close. "Ooo. This sounds juicy. Who's the mystery man?" she asked, taking off the silver loops.

"London Cunningham." Camille tried to sound nonchalant about it, but actually she was glowing on the inside. So ecstatic about the whole idea of London and her being together.

Della's eyes spread wide with excitement. "You mean...the London Cunningham? Fine ass London Cunningham? Like in...football quarter back London Cunningham?"

Camille squealed. "Yes, him! He asked me out on a date."

Della's mouth dropped wide open. She handed Camille her earrings. "How in the hell did this happen? Tell me all about it, Camille. Don't leave out one single, gritty detail."

"Sarah got sick. So the senior editor of The Hilltop asked me to take her place and interview London today." Camille cupped her face. "Oh, my God. He is so fine!"

Della got to her feet and grabbed Camille's shoulders. "You are so lucky, Camille. Girl, does Sky know you're going out with one of the finest guys at Howard?"

Camille shook her head. "No. All she knows is that I'm going out on a date. When I told her I was going out, the first thing she asked me was what kind of car he drove. When I told her he didn't have a car, she told me that I was a damn fool for going out with a broke ass man."

Della rolled her eyes heavenward. "I get so sick of Sky acting like she grew up rich. Like she came from money. Don't listen to her, Sky is nothing but a gold digger. All those older men she goes out with are just using her for sex. I'm sorry, but I feel my vagina is worth more than a meal or an expensive outfit." Della plopped back down on the bed. "And considering you're probably the last virgin on campus, I'm sure you can relate to how I feel."

Camille snickered. "Yes. I feel you, girl. Do you really think I'm the last virgin on campus?"

Putting her fists to her hips, Della tilted her head. "Hell yeah! Everybody around here fucking, except you!"

Camille cracked up laughing. "Della, you are too funny."

"Well, I bet you don't stay a virgin for too much longer."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"What I'm saying is...I bet London gon' get in your panties. Just wait and see. He's going to be your first."

Camille shook her head. "Whatever, Della. Just because he's popular and hot, don't mean I'm going to have sex with him."

Waving her index finger, Della smiled. "If you don't do it, somebody else will. As fine as London is, I can't think of a better man for you to lose your virginity to."

"Enough talking about me losing my virginity. Let me go get dressed." Camille walked over to the closet, grabbed hold of an outfit, and went to get dressed inside the bathroom. Looking at herself in the mirror, she rolled a red shirt over her head, then a pair of blue jeans over her hips. A few minutes later, she exited the bathroom. "How do I look?" she asked Della.

Della's eyes combed over her body. "You look very pretty," she said, always full of compliments.

"Thank you." Knuckles rapped on the door. "I wonder who that could be." Camille walked over to the door and pulled it open to find her girlfriend, Skylar Brooks, standing there. Dark brown complexioned, long jet black hair, and dimples in her cheeks, Sky was a very pretty girl.

"What's up? What's up? What's up? Where's the party at tonight?" Smiling, Sky entered the dorm room. Camille shut the door behind her. Sky's eyes lingered over Camille's clothing attire. "I see you're ready for your date."

"So how do I look?" Camille asked her, knowing Sky would be completely honest.

Sky placed a finger to her lip. "Okay, since you asked me, I'm going to be honest with you. The freaking black glasses must go. You need to wear your contact lenses. And as far as your hair goes, you need to perm it. All you ever do is wear it in a puffy ass ponytail. You can't even comb those wavy curls, girl. And if I were you, I'd wear a dress. A tight dress showing some cleavage."

_Well, dang._ "I'm not going to perm my hair, Sky." Camille looked at Della. "Della, do you think I should perm my hair?" she asked.

Rolling her eyes, Della sucked her teeth. "As far as _your_ hair goes, I think you should do whatever you're comfortable with. If you want to wear it straighter, just blow dry it and flat iron it."

Camille touched her naturally wavy hair. "Well, I like my hair, so for now I'm keeping it like this."

Della stated, "Apparently, London likes it, too, since he asked you on a date. I still can't believe you're going out with him. You're so lucky, girl."

Sky's ears perked up. "You're going out with London? London who?"

"Girl, she's going out with the London Cunningham!" Della clapped her hands as if she were cheering Camille on.

Sky's mouth parted. "Oh, my God. That's the guy you were trying to tell me about at lunch? The one that doesn't have a car? How in the heck did the two of you hook up?"

_So what, he doesn't have a car?_ Camille became frustrated with Sky's narrow-minded way of thinking. "I had to interview him today. During the interview, he asked me out to dinner tonight."

"Can we meet him?" Della prompted.

Frowning, Sky gave her head a shake. "We? Who's we? I don't want to meet London. Especially not looking like this."

Della stated, "London couldn't care less how you look, Sky. Why are you worried about how he thinks you look anyways?"

Sky sucked her teeth at Della's remark. "Trust me, I'm not worried about how London thinks I look, Della. Girl, you got me twisted. Your girl, Sky here, well, I only worry about men that have big cars and lots of cash flow. And from what I've heard, London doesn't have either."

Della rolled her eyes. "He may not have a car or money now, but he will someday. Everybody says he's going to get drafted into the NFL."

Sky waved her hand nonchalantly in the air. "Girl, bye. I'll believe it when I see it. Ain't nobody getting drafted from a HBCU."

Camille finally spoke. "Hello? Will y'all please stop talking about London like I'm not even standing here?"

"Yeah, Sky. Be quiet," Della spat.

Sky yelled, "Shut up, Della!" The girls all burst into laughter. Sky continued. "Camille, have fun on your date. Since there's nothing going on tonight, I guess I'll head back to my dorm room and pack for Atlanta. I know I've said it before, Della, but I'm going to say it again. Thank you so much for inviting me to your home for Thanksgiving. The three of us are going to have so much fun."

"Yes, we are," Camille said, excited about going to Atlanta for Thanksgiving.

"Too much fun," Della proclaimed.

"Oh yeah, before I forget," Sky reached into her back jean pocket and pulled out a folded sheet of paper. "Look what I got," she said, unfolding the paper.

Camille's eyes read the numbers on the check to Sky from Senator Nathaniel Obinwa. _$2,000._ Amazed, Camille put her hand to her chest. "I know what you did to get him to give you that kind of money."

Della laughed. "You ain't nothing but a prostitute, Sky."

Sky twirled the check in the air. "Look. Some girls do it for free. Some girls get paid like me. Della, you wish you could find a man to pay you for sex like me."

"That's a lie," Della retorted.

"Yeah, right," Sky replied. "Camille, you're still a virgin. There are men out there that would pay millions for your little virgin pussy, girl. Let me know if you're ever interested in making some money like me, and I'll hook you up with a rich man."

"No, thanks, Sky. When I finally lose my virginity, I want to be in love."

"All righty, then. Good luck with finding love." Sky put her hand on Camille's shoulder. "Just do me a favor and make sure that whoever you lose your virginity to, please make sure he's not broke. Broke men are so boring. Can't do nothing for you. They're more of a liability than an asset."

"Nathaniel is a fool for giving you all that money. He's a married man, acting like he single. Nathaniel should be shame of himself." Della plopped down on her bed, crossed her legs at the ankles.

Laughing, Sky nodded. "So what, he's married? By the way, don't call him Nathaniel. Nathaniel sounds like an old man's name. Call him Nate, baby." Sky giggled.

Camille sighed. "Nate is old enough to be your father, Sky. If his wife finds out about you, she'd probably divorce him. What you're doing is wrong."

Sky pouted her lips. "Don't judge me. It's not like I want to marry the man or take him away from his wife. I'm just enjoying college life, and it's about time you start living it up, too. Stop studying all the damn time, Camille. Get out and live a little. Better yet, why don't you go and get a little bit?"

Camille scrunched her face. "Get a little bit of what?"

Sky shouted, "A little bit of dick!"

Wild laughter from all three girls filled the room.

"I'm not having sex until I'm good and ready," Camille said, wondering if London Cunningham would indeed be the first man she ever made love to.

# Chapter Two

The full moon glowed brightly over the dormitory building where Camille resided. Quiet stillness filled the warm evening air. Waiting for Camille to exit the building, London leaned his back against the tree several feet away from the main entrance. Keeping his eyes glued to the double doors of the dormitory building, he slid his hands into the front pockets of his jeans. _I can't wait to see Camille again today, with her pretty self._

Earlier today when Camille had been interviewing him, he hadn't been able to keep his eyes off her beautiful round face. He'd met a lot of girls at Howard, had dated a lot of them, too, but none of the females had captivated him like Camille had. As soon as he'd laid eyes on her earlier while in the library, an unfamiliar feeling had shifted inside his chest. His balls had tingled, too. Something about Camille had drawn him to her like a magnet to iron.

The door of the four story building flung open, and Camille appeared in the doorway, looking pretty as ever. _Wow. She's beautiful._ London's eyes clung to Camille. Wearing a pair of blue jeans and a plain red shirt, the light in the ceiling beamed down on her beautiful, pecan brown complexioned face. Waves of soft black hung over her shoulders. When she spotted him standing beneath the tree, a large smile of enchantment touched her soft looking lips. _Why do I feel so damn lucky?_

Ecstatic about his date with Camille, London pulled his hands from the pockets of his jeans and stalked over to the building to stand at the foot of the steps. A pair of black glasses on her face, Camille's hazel eyes linked with his as she descended the staircase. As soon as her feet left the last step, the sweet fragrance of her perfume sailed into his nose.

Standing so close to Camille, London's heart juggled. His shaft threatened to knot. _She's beautiful. Steals my breath. Sets my balls on fire._ To say he was excited about having the opportunity to take Camille out would be an understatement. Never in his damn life had a girl made him giddy. Or had tempted to make the tip of his rod leak with fluid, and he hadn't even touched her yet.

London desired to kiss those sweet brown lips of hers. "You look pretty, Camille."

A tint of red appeared on her high cheekbones. "Thanks. You look very handsome." Her sensual voice flowed like a sweet caress in the evening air.

"Thanks. It's good to see you a second time today," he stated, completely mesmerized with her.

Camille's lips pulled into a soft smile, animating her pretty face. "It's so good to see you again today, too."

Suddenly, the doors of the dormitory building burst open, and a young female with a medium brown complexion came jogging down the steps. Upon reaching them, a huge smile covered her face. She stuck out her hand towards London. "Hi, I'm Della. Camille's roommate."

Looking in each other faces, Camille and Della eyes spoke quietly to one another.

London gripped Della's hand and shook it. "It's nice to meet you, Della," he spoke coolly.

Letting go of his hand, Della's eyes raked up and down London's body. "The pleasure's all mine. You two have a good time on your date."

"Thank you, Della," Camille said.

"I'm sure we will," London stated, feeling confident that he and Camille would have a wonderful time together this cool November evening. "Let's get going."

London and Camille traveled the length of the sidewalk heading towards the bus stop. Scoping out Camille in her entirety again, but close up, his insides jangled. The pecan brown complexion skin on her face glowed. Jet black, wavy hair hung over her shoulders, paraded down her back. Breasts perched beneath the fabric of her red, long sleeve shirt. Dark blue jeans stretched over the curves of her tight, round buttocks. And that cute mole right above her lip, he wanted to kiss all over it. Flick it with his tongue. _I wonder if her nipples are light brown or black,_ he wondered, his hand aching to hold hers.

Reaching the stop sign, London halted. "The bus should be here to pick us up any minute."

"We are we going?"

"To a nice little jazz restaurant."

"I've never been to a jazz restaurant before."

"I hope you like it." _Because I've put a lot of thought into this date._

Tilting her head back to gaze up at him, Camille's hazel eyes gleamed. "I'm sure I will. I'm not hard to please."

"Here comes the bus." The big city bus pulled up beside them and stopped. Scents of burnt rubber assuaged London's nose as the doors of the bus whooshed open. Finally taking hold of Camille's dainty hand like he'd wanted to do all along, he clambered up the steps and led her to the very back of the bus.

Stepping to the side, London gestured for Camille to take the seat by the window. Then he slid in the vacant seat after she took hers. The bus began driving down the road, away from the college campus.

London sensed nervous tension coming from Camille as she peered out the window, twiddling her thumbs in her lap. When he cleared his throat, she diverted her gaze from the window and looked at him. _Before tonight is over, I'm going to kiss her brownish-mauve, soft looking lips._

Intrigued by Camille, London wanted to get to know her better. "So tell me about yourself, Camille." Normally when he took a girl out, the only thing he cared about getting to know was what was inside her panties. And after he had sex with her, he didn't feel like being bothered. Something in his gut told him things would be different with Camille. Much different.

"Where do you want me to start?" Camille asked in a soft voice.

"Where are you from?"

Seemingly shy, Camille looked down at her lap, then back up at his face. "I'm from Wilmington, North Carolina. I'm an only child. Both of my parents are still living. My father is an accountant, and my mother is a high school English teacher. They met at Howard and convinced me to come here, too." She laughed. "No other colleges were good enough. My major is English. I want to be a magazine editor. Maybe own my own magazine company someday. Oh, and I love old school music."

Now look at this, they had something in common. "I like old school music, too. Who's your favorite singing artist?"

"Michael Jackson."

"Mine is Prince." _She seems like my kind of girl._

The bus pulled up on the curb in front of a stop sign and parked beside a dark two story building. A sign that read _Le Café Jazz_ flashed a hue of royal blue on the door.

London cupped Camille's hand, led her off the bus. Hooking a hand around the handle of the door, he pulled it open, then led his date inside the romantic establishment.

Dull lights vaguely lit up the entrance area of the corridor. Sultry jazz tunes flowed inside his ears as he stalked towards the glass window to pay their entrance fee. Looking at the young, dark haired girl sitting behind the window, he pulled his wallet from his back pocket and handed her a fifty dollar bill.

He'd never taken a girl out on a date like this before. The best he'd ever done was a movie and McDonald's. Maybe Applebee's if he had the money. But this night with Camille had to be special. A night to remember.

The hostess pointed to London's left and said, "The elevator is over there, or you can take the staircase to your right."

London tugged Camille's hand, pulled open a black door, then led her up a flight of stairs to the second level of the club. Walking towards the rear, he decided to sit at the table tucked in a dark corner. He pulled a chair from beneath the table, gestured for Camille to sit, and after she sat, he rounded the table and sat in the seat across from her. For now, they had the entire second floor to themselves.

"Are you hungry?"

Camille nodded. "A little."

"Well, I'm starving. Let's order something to eat." He hefted the menus from between the salt and pepper shakers and handed one to Camille. A few minutes later, he lowered the menu from his eyes, and so did she. "I think I'm going to have the buffalo hamburger with bacon and French fries. What are you having?"

"I'm getting the lemon pepper wings with a small side salad."

Dressed in all black, a young waitress approached the table. "My name is Katrice, and I'll be your server this evening." She placed a napkin in front of them. "How are the two of you this evening?"

"Fine," they both said in unison.

"Are you ready to order?" the waitress asked in a cheerful tone.

"Yes," London answered, then ordered for both of them.

"I'll be right back with your drinks." The waitress turned and walked away.

The jazz song playing faded, then a sultry tune by songstress Anita Baker eased from the speakers, filling the air inside the dim room.

"I grew up on old school music. This song is called--"

" _You Bring Me Joy_ ," they said in unison.

Their hearty laughter intermixed.

"You really do know old school music, don't you?" he asked, feeling as if he could look at her all night long. And tomorrow. And the day after, and so on and so on.

Camille's succulent lips remained tilted upwards on her beautiful face. She nodded. "Yes. That's all my father and mother ever listen to."

"Mine, too. Would you like to dance?"

"Sure."

London stood. Towering over Camille, he extended his hand towards her. She lowered her petite hand into his palm, then stood. Anxious to hold her body close to his on this particular song, he descended the rear staircase and hastened to the wooden dance floor with her in tow behind him.

Silver disco balls glistened from the ceiling, setting the romantic mood. London draped his arms around Camille's waist, drew her sexy form to his. Twining her arms around his neck, her breasts pressed into his chest. Ah, her body felt so damn good on his.

"You bring me joy," Anita Baker's sultry voice pierced his ears.

As London held Camille tenderly in his arms, dancing the night away, another couple came and joined them on the dance floor. And then two more.

Holding Camille tenderly in his arms, London pressed his tingling shaft against her stomach. His right hand left the small of her back to caress her spine. Slow dancing, his manhood threatened to turn to stone. _Stay soft, boy. Don't you dare get hard on me,_ he mentally ordered his shaft.

Normally, he wouldn't care if a girl felt him get an erection on their first date, but for some reason he cared tonight. The last thing he wanted was for Camille to think he only wanted sex from her. Because that'd be far from the truth. Even though they'd just become acquainted, she'd distorted his senses like no girl had ever done before and had him wanting to take her out again.

Desire plagued him like a man tempted to fall in strong like. _Camille's going to be the girl I settle down with._ Oh, hell no. __ Where in the hell did that thought come from? he wondered, feeling the head of his rod rounding hard beneath his zipper. _Damn, I'm getting hard._

SENSUAL HEAT rose in the pit of Camille's stomach, then shot to her center when she felt London's stem grow hard against her lower belly. Becoming nervous, perspiration coated the inside of her hands, her body temperature increasing.

Camille swallowed. Oh, my freaking God, he's hard. He feels so big. Thank God it's dark in here. What have I gotten myself into? He's probably the type of guy that expects sex from a girl on the first date. Well, I'm not doing it.

London put a finger to Camille's chin, tilted her head back. Peering intently into his dark brown, gorgeous eyes, her lips eased into a smile.

"You're so beautiful, Camille," he said, rubbing the mole above her top lip with the pad of his thumb.

And you're so freaking gorgeous. "Thanks for the compliment."

Gazing into her eyes, London palmed the back of Camille's head and gestured for her to lay her head on his hard, muscular chest. Slow dancing from side to side, Camille never imagined that she'd attend Howard and end up entangled in the strong arms of the Bisons' quarterback. The main man at the university. The guy that all the girls wanted and dreamed of dating. Dreamed of having hot sex with. Dreamed of someday marrying and having babies with.

Feeling like she was in heaven, Camille slowly closed her eyes and sunk deep into London's strong embrace. Goosebumps pimpled her flesh. Her center tingled. Her nipples curled tight.

Their bodies pressed together tightly, she loved the way he held her. So tender. So sweet. London's crisp woodsy cologne traveled up her nose, enticing her.

Dancing the night away, Camille felt London's tool jerk on her stomach. Her eyes shot open. _How in the heck did he do that? If he thinks he's getting in my panties, he's sadly mistaken. Unlike Sky, my stuff is worth more than a date to the jazz club and some darn lemon pepper chicken wings. I'm a virgin and plan on keeping it that way._

Camille wondered how London would feel about her if he knew she was a virgin and planned to remain that way until she got married. She'd never had a big rod pressed up against her before, but she had to admit, it did feel good. Felt heavenly. Made her heart palpitate.

A dull ache formed in her center. Fluid trickled from Camille's opening into her panties. _Oh, Lordy. No man has ever gotten me wet before._ Body temperature rising, her heart hammered wildly in her chest. A pulse drummed hard at her entrance.

Anita Baker's song finally ended, and a sweet jazz melody by saxophonist Kenny G began playing. London's body paused. Camille lifted her head from his chest and gazed up into his eyes.

His eyes traveled up to the balcony, then back to her face. "The waitress just brought our food to the table. Let's go eat." He licked his lips, causing her to wonder if he believed in oral sex. She'd heard oral sex felt really good. Well, considering she didn't plan on finding out, she had no idea why she even cared. Or had the thought in the first place.

Gently holding her hand, London escorted Camille back upstairs to their table tucked in the secluded corner. After he pulled out a chair for her to sit, he took his seat across from her. _He's such a gentleman_. Having the most romantic time of her life, she unfolded her white napkin and lay it in her lap. He did the same.

The illumination of the glittering silver disco balls bounced off the walls inside the jazz club as they sat enjoying their meals. A song by jazz musician Wynton Marsalis began serenading the room.

London took a big swallow of his Coke, then lowered his glass to the table. "I love the mole on your lip. It's so cute."

Camille's fingers instantly went to touch the hideous mole. "Thanks. I thought about having it removed."

"Please, don't do that. I like it."

She dipped her wing into the blue cheese dressing, then held it up to her lips. "I don't have the money to remove it right now anyway." She bit into the drum. Creamy sauce coated her tongue, tasting so delicious.

After London and Camille finished their meals, they danced a few more times, then he grabbed her hand and led her outside the club. Walking along the sidewalk, London turned into a dark alley, paused in his tracks.

Positioned between two tall buildings in a dark alley, she gazed up at his face. Deep longing filled his hooded gaze. "Is it okay if I kiss you?" he asked throatily, lust filling his eyes.

Camille nodded. "Yes." _Please do._

London cupped Camille's face with his big football hands, slanted his mouth over hers, then slid his tongue inside her mouth. Twining her tongue with his, she clenched his broad shoulders and moaned. When she went to pull her tongue from his mouth, he curled his flesh tighter around hers and sucked it to the back of his throat.

Heat zapped through her veins, and she became aroused. Unable to resist London's heady advances, she gladly drank his saliva. _I can't believe I'm kissing him in public like this. In a darn alley. I can't help myself. Oh. Ah. Ooo._

Kissing her hard, London's firm lips glided over Camille's. Gripping the balls of her shoulders, he gestured her back up against the wall, pressed his hard erection into her stomach, and started grinding. Fire lit her soul. Her mind swirled, making her dizzy. This was the best kiss she'd ever had in her life. This mind blowing kiss was bestowing a curse upon her heart. Making her fall hard. Making her fall madly in love.

Camille tore her mouth from London's. Her chest heaving up and down, saliva had drenched her mouth from his blood-searing kiss. Using the tip of his index finger, he traced the outlines of her lips.

Arousal flickered in his sexy eyes. "Thank you for the kiss, Camille. I thoroughly enjoyed it." His deep baritone voice descended down over her.

_I still can't believe I kissed him in public. What has gotten into me?_ "I enjoyed kissing you, too."

He linked his thick fingers with hers, led her out of the dark alley, and headed towards the bus stop at the corner. The bus pulled up on the curb, they climbed on, and headed straight for the back.

Riding in the rear of the empty bus, joy and appreciation filled Camille's heart. London had showed her a great time filled with fun and laughter tonight, and she couldn't have been more pleased. Or more impressed.

She looked over at him and smiled. "Thanks for the date. I had a wonderful time."

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. I had a great time, too." He cupped her hand, brought it up to his lips, and then kissed the back of her hand.

Hoping he'd ask her out on another date, sometime real soon, Camille laid her head on his shoulder and gazed out the window. Stars twinkled in the sky around the white, full moon.

Finally, the bus reached the campus and let them off.

Chilly evening weather stirred the air as they walked hand in hand back towards Camille's dormitory building. Crickets chirped in the bushes that lined the sidewalk. Letting go of her hand, he draped his arm around her shoulder and drew her frame to his. Not wanting the night to come to an end, she wrapped her arm around his waist.

London's steps halted when they reached the metal post light a few feet away from her dormitory building. Standing beneath the bright light, he clutched her shoulders, then turned her to face him. "I wish tonight didn't have to end."

"Me either."

"Please don't ever get rid of the mole on your lip. It's a part of who you are, a beauty mark. And I bet it stands for a blessing. Hopefully, one day, you'll find out what that blessing is."

_Hopefully, my blessing will be you_. "A blessing, huh? That's a good way to think about it."

"If you don't mind, I'd like to give you something else good to think about," he said, dropping his mouth to hers. "Think about this while you're lying in bed tonight." London pressed his lips into hers, slid his tongue into her mouth, and led her mouth on an exciting erotic journey.

Curling his tongue around hers, he broke their heated kiss. Peering into her eyes, he cupped her cheeks. "I'll call you soon."

Camille's head nodded in his huge, callous hands. _Please do._ "Okay. Thanks again. Goodnight."

"Goodnight." London released Camille's face, turned, and then took off jogging towards the other side of the campus.

Her fingers touching her wet lips, Camille stood outside in the cool night air and watched fine behind London until he disappeared, praying that he'd call her real soon.

# Chapter Three

Camille grasped the door knob of her door room, turned it, then walked inside the small dim room. Reminiscing about her date with London, a warm feeling washed over her. _I hope London calls me tomorrow._

At the sound of the door clicking shut, Della bolted up in bed. Yawning, she rubbed her sleepy eyes with her knuckles. "How did the date go? Tell me everything." She leaned over her bed and pulled the string on the lamp. The room brightened.

Camille smiled. "I'll tell you about it tomorrow."

Della fisted her hips. "Tomorrow?! Please don't make me wait until tomorrow to hear about your hot date with London. Tell me tonight, Camille. Please." Della sounded desperate.

Camille grabbed her shirt at the hem, pulled it up over her head, then tossed it on her bed. Squirming her hips out of her jeans, the damp spot in the crotch of her panties caressed her sex. _London had me so hot. Got my panties all wet._ "My date was so nice, Della. London took me to an elegant jazz club. We danced. Had dinner. And danced some more."

Della's lips curled into a smile. "Did he kiss you?"

_Did he?_ _Whew. He can kiss his behind off._ Camille replied. "Yes, Della. We kissed."

Della's mouth dropped wide open. "Oh. My. God! You kissed the finest boy at school. Did y'all have sex?"

Camille snickered. "No. I'm not that easy."

Della reached over to pull the string on the lamp, and the light clicked off. The room darkened. "I didn't think so. But hey, I had to ask. I bet you any amount of money that you lose your virginity to London."

Camille climbed on the mattress, and then slid beneath the covers. Clenching the covers to her chin, she glanced up at the ceiling. "I really hope London calls me tomorrow. If he doesn't, I'm going to be so disappointed."

"He'll call you, Camille. Just think positive."

"Okay, I will." Relishing in the moisture still pooled at her center, Camille squeezed her thighs together. With her clitoris tingling, she closed her eyes and hoped she had a sweet dream about London Cunningham.

**THE FOLLOWING AFTERNOON** , Camille sat at the wooden desk inside her dorm room, studying for an English exam. Putting her elbow up on the desk, she fisted her chin and read the words in the hardback textbook.

Suddenly, an image of how London had kissed her last night sailed into her mind. Squeezing her eyes shut, tingles spread through her body. Licking her lips, she sighed. London's lips had felt so good on hers. His erection had felt so pleasurable on her stomach. His hard body pressing into hers while in the alley had made her sex clench, and get wet.

Finding it difficult to concentrate on her studies, Camille's eyes fluttered open, and she stared out the window in front of her. She glanced at the clock on the desk to find it was seventeen minutes after 1 pm. _When is he going to call?_

"I can't concentrate." Camille closed the textbook, then stood. She walked over to the closet, grabbed a jacket, and headed towards the door. Just as she gripped the door knob, the cell in her back jean pocket buzzed. Spying the Caller ID, she smiled. _London._

"Hello?" she answered.

"Hey, Camille. This is London. How are you?"

_Good, now that I've heard your voice_. "I'm good. How are you today?"

London sighed heavily. "I'm good. But my mind is warped from studying so much. If I'm not practicing, I'm studying. But I have to do what I have to do if I want to get into law school. What are you up to today?"

"I was about to head to the Blackburn Cafe."

"Can I join you? I'd really like to see you again today."

"Sure, that'd be nice," she said, feeling pretty lucky.

"What do you have planned afterwards?"

_I need to study._ "Nothing."

"Have you ever been to the National Museum of African Art?"

"No...I've heard it was nice, though," she said meekly.

"I'd love to take you to the museum, if you're interested."

"Yes. I'm interested."

"Okay. Well, I'm on my way to pick you up."

"See you in a few."

Camille hit the end button on her cell. "Yes. He asked me out again." She hurried over to the closet, pulled out a pair of black jeans, and a green shirt. _Maybe's Sky's right. I need to spice up my wardrobe,_ she thought, changing her clothing.

Twenty minutes later, Camille pushed through the double doors of her dormitory building and stepped outside. Walking to the edge of the porch, she spotted London standing beneath the huge oak adjacent to the building. Smiling, and of course anxious, she descended the steps and walked over to him.

"You look beautiful, Camille."

"Thanks." Gazing into his eyes, Camille was in love with his handsome face. "You look beautiful, too."

Grabbing her hand, London chuckled. "Men don't look beautiful. But thanks anyway."

"Well, I beg to differ. I think men can be beautiful." _And that you are.._. _just beautiful._

The bright sun shined down on Camille's face as she and London strolled hand in hand along the emerald grass of the campus. Becoming quite acquainted with one another, they talked about their upbringings and about college life. So far, they'd both had a wonderful experience at Howard.

Short moments later, they arrived at the Blackburn Cafe to have lunch. Sitting across from one another inside a booth, London ordered a big roast beef sandwich with melted provolone cheese, barbeque chips, and a large iced tea. To her liking, Camille got a grilled cheese panini, plain chips, and a diet Coke. While thoroughly enjoying one another's company, Camille told London about her favorite pastime--gardening. She'd picked up the hobby from her mother while growing up. London expressed how he loved the arts. Mostly paintings and sculptures, to be precise.

After lunch, London and Camille caught the bus to the art museum. Walking beside London along the narrow hallway inside the museum, Camille's eyes wandered over the beautiful paintings. Every piece of art looked unique.

Coming to a slow halt, the painting in front of Camille captivated her. "Oh, London...look at this piece," she said, admiring the artistic piece by Elizabeth Catlett. The art in front of her was entitled "In Harriet Tubman, I Helped Hundreds to Freedom", and was designed in 1946 on woodcut wove paper.

"This piece of art is one of my favorites," London exclaimed, standing so tall beside her. Looking macho. "Come," he grabbed her hand, "there's more to see." Gently holding her hand, London led her to another exquisite piece of art inside a small room. Camille's eyes roamed over the naked Male Torso painting. London stated, "This piece was designed by Richmond Barthe in 1932. It's named the Male Torso and was done on painted plaster."

As her eyes combed over every single line and detail in the painting, she wondered if London's naked male torso was well constructed like the one in front of her. She transferred her eyes from the painting and was now staring at London's rock solid chest. Muscles packed like hard stones beneath the football jersey he wore. Wanting to touch the hard muscles of his chest, a bubbly feeling swirled inside her stomach. Finding it difficult to stop all this staring stuff, her eyes slowly climbed up to his brown, handsome face. "The painting is beautiful," she said, swallowing.

Alone inside the room, he dropped his mouth close to hers and breathed hotly on her lips. "Just. Like. You. My beautiful, Camille." He placed a soft peck on her lips. Camille's sex clenched. _Oh, my goodness. He keeps getting me hot_. _Maybe Della's right. He may have the skills to sweet talk me into getting in his bed before marriage. No. I have to be strong. And save myself until I say, "I do."_ Many thoughts raced inside Camille's brain. Would she be able to tell London Cunningham no if he tried to get her in his bed? Did she even want to tell him no if he tried to have sex with her? Was he even worth giving it up to? Overwhelmed over something that hadn't even happened yet, she mentally slapped herself. London cupped her ear. "Let's finish touring the rest of the museum."

Tingling all over, she nodded. "Okay."

London took her into a room overflowing with African Art Collections from the eighteenth century through the early twentieth century. Musical instruments, weapons, ceremonial masks, body ornaments, and symbols of status packed the inside of the room. To her surprise, he knew a lot about each and every single piece. London began explaining the history behind the mask inside of the glass casing.

"How do you know so much about all this art and the history behind it?" she wondered.

"I come here all the time and love studying history."

"So you've memorized all the facts and details, haven't you?"

"Yes. I have."

"Wow." _Quite impressive_. Unlike other boys she'd met while attending the university, London was keen for his age. Had many interests she found unusual for a guy like him. Glancing at the watch on her wrist, Camille stated, "Time has flown by. I hate to cut this short, but I have to get back to campus. I have a creative writing class this afternoon."

"What are you doing later?" he asked, rubbing the mole on her lip.

"I'm packing to leave for Thanksgiving break."

The two of them began heading out of the room. "Yeah, me, too. It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost here. Are you going home to be with your parents?" he asked, pushing through the doors of the museum, then walking outside.

"No. I'm going to Atlanta with my roommate, Della. My girlfriend, Sky, is coming, too. What about you? What do you have planned?"

London's lips pulled into a smile. "I'm going home to Jacksonville to be with my mother. Hopefully while I'm there, I'll get to hang out with some of my friends from high school."

The bus pulled up on the curb in front of the museum. They climbed aboard and headed straight for the rear, like they'd done last night. Once they reached campus, London walked Camille back to her dormitory building like a perfect gentleman.

Now standing at the foot of the steps outside her dormitory building, London held her gaze. Cupping her hands, his sexy mouth pulled into a smile. "I had a wonderful time with you today, Camille. Thanks for joining me."

"You're welcome. I had a great time, too. Thanks for the invite." _Kiss me,_ she thought, her tongue involuntary gliding over her lips. "Well, I better get going." She slipped her hands from his, then turned to climb up the steps.

Halfway up the steps, London jogged up behind Camille, pulled her against his hard Viking body. Staring intently into her eyes, he slid his mouth over hers and kissed her tenderly. Wrapping his tongue around hers like a warm blanket, he groaned huskily.

Twining her tongue with his, a soft whimper resounded in her throat. Her vaginal lips fluttering, a trickle of fluid seeped into Camille's panties.

Finally, London released Camille's lips. Leaving her mouth wet and on fire, he told her, "Call me after your creative writing class is over."

"Okay," she said, hating that their date had ended.

London walked down the steps, then began jogging away. Short moments later, his figure faded with distance.

Camille mounted the rest of the steps, grasped the handle of the door, and pulled it open. _I think I'm falling in love_. She entered the building, rounded the corner, and headed straight for her room.

Once inside her dorm room, Camille flopped down on her bed, landing on her back. Taking a brief rest, she glanced up at the ceiling with a huge smile on her face. _London. London. London._

Suddenly, the door flung open with a loud thwack, and in walked Della and Sky.

Della shot up to Camille while Sky closed the door. Waving her finger at her, Della smiled. "I bet I know who has you smiling like that."

Continuing to smile, Camille eased up on her elbows. "Oh yeah? Who do you think put this smile on my face?"

Sky came and stood beside Camille's bed. Rolling her eyes, she folded her arms across her chest. "I hope you're not thinking about London. His broke behind doesn't even have a car," she rudely remarked.

Shaking her head, Camille sucked her teeth. "So what, he doesn't have a car? I couldn't care less about that. What I care about is how he treats me, and so far, so good." _Sky can be so negative at times._ Camille continued. "Besides, the car you drive don't even belong to you, Sky. It belongs to the Senator...Nathaniel Obinwa."

Della butted in, "Nate is just letting you borrow his car. Make him mad, and I bet he takes it from you, and you'll be back to walking again." Looking Sky up and down, Della's nose scrunched. "You better hope his wife don't find out about you seducing her husband."

Sky sighed. "Whatever. Nate has my back. In fact, he told me that he's going to sign the title on the Mercedes over to my name. So his car will be my car real soon." She snickered. "He even bought me this outfit," she said, twirling around in a red maxi dress.

From her clothing and hairdo to her nails, purse, and shoes, Sky looked flawless as usual. Like one of the richest students on campus. Although she came from a poor family, no one could ever tell. In fact, many people believed Sky came from a rich family like Della's. Della really did have money, and she didn't act all stuck up like Sky.

Camille shook her head. "If Nate signs his car over to you and his wife finds out...that could end up being a disaster. What do you see in him?"

Della chimed in, "He's old enough to be your father, Sky, and have children your age."

Agitation shown on Sky's round face. She shrugged. "Yeah? So what, he has children my age?" Rolling her neck, she put her hands on her hips. "One thing I can say about my sugar daddy Nate is this...he pays my bills!" She tumbled over in laughter. "I'm getting paid!" She plopped down on the bed beside Camille, kicking her shoes off her feet.

Della and Camille looked at each other then, burst into laughter right along with Sky. Deep down inside, Camille disapproved of Sky's behavior, but hey...what could she do about Sky having an affair with a married man? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. Besides, who was she to judge? And Sky did have some good qualities about herself.

Like last year when Camille had gotten the flu, Sky had taken great care of her. She'd gone to the pharmacy to pick up her prescription. She'd brought her food to eat during her illness. She'd even made sure to keep her fridge stacked with plenty of fluids.

Sitting on the bed across from them and pulling her hair up into a ponytail, Della said, "Changing the subject...so how was your lunch date with London today?"

Camille's heart bloomed with glee as a smile came on her face. "Oh, Della. It was wonderful. First, we had lunch at the Blackburn Café. Then afterwards, he took me to the African Art museum. He's so smart. Such a gentleman." She slid her cell from her front jean pocket and started dialing.

"Who are you calling?" Sky asked.

"London," Camille replied happily.

Sky snatched the phone from Camille. "Hey! What did you do that for?" Camille wondered, wanting her cell back.

Sky tapped the end button, disconnecting the call. "Rule number one in getting a man: don't call them; let them call you."

Camille held out her hand. "Hand me back my phone, Sky. London has been very kind to me, and I'm not playing games with him. He asked me to call him after my class was over, and that's exactly what I'm going to do."

Disagreeing with Camille, Sky shook her head. She dropped the cell in Camille's palm. "Wait until after the holidays to call him. Don't seem so freaking eager."

With a fan of the hand, Della stated, "Don't listen to her, Camille. Call London. He took you out yesterday and today, so obviously he likes you. Don't play games with him. If you do, some other girl could move right in on your goods, girl. Shoot, I wish somebody would take me out. Does he, by any chance, have any brothers?"

Camille nodded. "As a matter-of-fact, he does have a brother."

Della's face split into a smile. "Well, when you get in good with London, introduce me to his brother, if he doesn't have a girlfriend."

Sky looked at Della. "I just don't understand you two. Why would you want an immature college boy when you can have a grown man with money?"

Della threw her hands up in the air. "Sky. Why does everything for you always have to revolve around money? I'm not looking for anything serious. I just want someone of the opposite sex to hang out with. That gold digging mind of yours is going to get you into trouble someday."

Sky sucked her teeth, stood, and then started for the door. "I'm going to my room to pack for Thanksgiving. I can't wait to meet your family, Della," she said, exiting the room.

After Sky's behind finally left, Camille punched London's number into her cell. Holding the phone to her ear, she leaned her back against the wall. Three rings into the call, London answered.

"Hello?"

"Hi. It's me, Camille."

"I know. What are you doing right now?"

"I'm inside my dorm room, doing nothing."

"Look outside your window." He sounded chipper.

Keeping the phone pressed to her ear, Camille threw her feet to the floor, hurried over to the frosted stained window, and lifted it. London stood outdoors in the dark beneath a bright lamppost, holding a bouquet of flowers in one hand, and his cell was pressed to his ear with his other hand.

Meeting her gaze, he extended the flowers upwards and smiled. "I wanted you to have these before you left for Thanksgiving break."

A cool breeze streamed through the window, caressing her face. "Oh, London. You're so sweet. I'll be right down."

Just as she turned to go meet London, Della shot up behind her. Della looked out the window, then gasped. "He bought you flowers?" Her roommate covered her heart. "Oh, Camille. He's good looking and romantic. I don't care what Sky says, he's a keeper."

"I hope so, Della." Camille hastened out of the room, bustled down the hallway toward the door, then jogged down the steps. Pushing open the door, she hurried outdoors and walked up to where London stood. When he extended the flowers towards her, she took them. Bringing the flowers up to her nose, she inhaled the perfumed lavender scent. "They're beautiful. Thanks."

"I'm glad you like them. I hope you don't think I'm being too pushy, but I needed to see your face one last time before we depart for the break. And I needed to..." London lowered his face towards hers. Their noses almost touching, he cupped her neck. "I needed to do this before you left. One. Last. Time."

Draping his arms around Camille's waist, London slanted his mouth over hers. Groaning against her lips, he sucked her tongue into his mouth and twirled. Electricity sizzled Camille's bones, weakening her limbs. Dampness gathered in her center.

Clutching the flowers in her hand, she encircled her arms around his neck. London's shaft turned hard on her belly, made her hot. Made her clitoris tingle. _My, oh my, I think I'm in love,_ she thought, kissing him feverishly.

# Chapter Four

**_Atlanta, Georgia_**

D _amn, Della's father is fine. He's way hotter than Nate._ Sitting in the rear of the silver BMW 750Li behind the passenger's seat where Della sat, Sky stared at Della's father as he steered the luxurious sedan along the winding road towards his estate. Dark chocolate skin, black curly hair, breathtaking brown eyes, and muscular...Dr. Lynwood Thorton looked great for his age. _Just delicious_. Sure didn't look like he could be somebody's father.

Signaling his blinkers, Lynwood glimpsed at Sky from his rearview mirror. Hooking her gaze with his, Sky's heart dipped. Smitten with the older man, she quickly tore her gaze away and peered out the window to her right. Suddenly, the flat road descended into a steep hill. Visiting Atlanta for the first time, Sky had no idea the big city had rolling hills.

The rich-looking scenery stole Sky's breath. Reddish-orange leaves sprouted from tall oaks lining either side of the road. Brown, steep mountains appeared in the distance. The car drove past big houses in luxurious communities, one after the other, after the other. _Wow. Every house out here is huge._ _These people out here are filthy rich._

Coming to the foot of the hill, Lynwood reduced the speed of the car and pulled into a fancy gated subdivision. Rolling the window down, he punched a series of numbers on the security keypad. The black gate glided open, and Lynwood slowly proceeded inside.

"Holy cow," Sky mumbled.

Sitting in the front passenger seat beside her father, Della turned around to look at Sky. "Did you say something, Sky?" she asked, huge spiral curls bouncing on her shoulders.

Sky shook her head. "No. Just singing," she lied, thinking how lucky Della was to have such rich parents.

A few moments later, Lynwood drove the car up a steep hill in the rear of the subdivision. Pulling up to the iron gates with a gold eagle emblem, Lynwood slowed the car at the three story red brick mansion sitting at the top of the hill.

Lynwood cleared his throat. "Girls, we're here." His husky voice echoed inside the plush car. He pushed a button in the ceiling of his car. Slowly, the gate peeled open, and then he steered the car in the driveway.

Simply amazed at the size of the mansion, Sky uncrossed her legs and stared out the window. _Wow. Della's house is humongous_. _Simply beautiful._ Steep steps led up to the front porch. White columns encircled the front of the mansion. Brown wicker rocking chairs with red plaid fabric aligned the porch. _Mmmph. Mmmph. Mmmph_. _Della's good-looking father is wealthy. Richer than my man Nate. Way richer._

Sky transferred her gaze to Lynwood. Releasing the steering wheel, Lynwood smiled at Della, patted her shoulder. "It's so good to have you home, Della. Too bad your mother can't be with us this Thanksgiving."

_What? Della's mother won't be here for Thanksgiving?_ For a brief moment, Sky thought she'd heard Lynwood wrong _._

Della smiled blandly. "I miss Mom so much and hate she won't be here with us. She's been in Africa, taking care of those children for a long time now."

"Yes. She has. But for a very good cause. She tried very hard to come home but missed her flight."

Della's eyes grew sad. "I know. Hopefully, I'll get to see her before I leave."

Lynwood nodded. He pushed the door open, climbed out, and rounded the car to the rear. The girls got out after him. Pressing the button on his key fob, the trunk popped open. As Lynwood tugged their luggage from the compartment, Sky stood closely behind him, inhaling the spicy scent of his rich cologne. _Mmmm._

Lynwood lulled the Gucci luggage that Nate had given Sky from the trunk, lowered it to the ground, and gave her a smile so handsome, her female senses went reeling. Her sex clenched. Trying to mentally cool her insides, she tried her hardest to give Lynwood a sexy smile in return. "Thanks." She curled her hand around the handle.

"You're very welcome."

"Follow me," Della stated, rolling her luggage along the driveway.

Gripping the handle of her luggage, Sky walked behind Della and Camille. Inhaling the fresh scent of pine, Lynwood traipsed behind her. _So Della's mother isn't going to be here for Thanksgiving?_ Wearing a pair of skinny, low waist jeans, Sky sashayed her hips. _I wonder if Lynwood is looking at my booty?_

Many thoughts confiscated Sky's brain as she made her way into the garage. Did Lynwood have more money than Nate? Did Lynwood love his wife? Did Lynwood like young college girls her age? Did Lynwood have a big dick and know how to use it?

Feeling naughty, Sky laughed wickedly inside her head. If she could get a man like Lynwood to fall for her and marry her, she wouldn't ever have to work a day in her life. Also, she'd have all the time in the world to do everything she'd always wanted to do. Travel, shop, purchase two homes. Buy three vehicles--a sports car, a SUV, and a sedan. _I've been poor my entire life and deserve much better._ _One day, I'm going to rise up and become rich. I will do whatever it takes to become wealthy._

Sky's mind went to her mother and her stupid father. She could still remember the Christmas Day her father had walked out on her mother, leaving them scrounging for food. Struggling for money. Her mother had to work two jobs just to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. Growing up impoverished, she'd promised herself that she'd someday marry a rich man, get pregnant, and live happily ever after.

"Welcome to my home," Della said, pushing open the back garage door, interrupting Sky's thoughts.

As Sky entered the kitchen through the back door behind Della and Camille, a Hawaiian scent wafted up her nose. Rolling her suitcase behind her, she spotted a girl sitting at the dining table, holding a Starbucks coffee cup to her lips. _That must be Della's older sister, Giselle._

Lynwood closed the door behind them.

The girl sitting at the table's eyes widened. "Della! You're home!" She lowered the mug to the table, hopped out of her seat, ran up to Della, and threw her arms around her.

Della's hand flew off the handle of her luggage, and she threw her arms around Giselle. "You're squeezing the life out of me, sis."

Giselle squeezed her eyes together. "I know. I'm just so happy to see you."

"I'm happy to see you, too." Della pried herself from Giselle's strong embrace. Smiling, she looked at Camille, and then at Sky. "These are my friends from college. Camille and Sky." As Della began making the introductions, Sky tuned out her voice.

Eyes roaming over the kitchen, Sky slid her hands into her back jean pockets. __ Stainless steel pots hung over the centered lanai. Sparkling glass covered the cabinetry. Rich gold and deep brown stones made up the backsplash. _This is some fancy kitchen. It's bigger than my den back home._ Her eyes went towards the window to find a mountain out back.

Camille nudged Sky's side with her elbow. "Sky. She's waiting to shake your hand." Camille pointed to Giselle's outstretched hand.

"Oh. I'm sorry." Sky gripped Giselle's hand and gave it a firm shake.

Lynwood stated. "Camille and Sky...please make yourself at home while you're here visiting."

"Thanks," Camille and Sky said in unison.

_Oh, believe me, I plan to make myself at home all right. More than you realize, Doctor._

Lynwood suggested, "Della, why don't you show the girls to their rooms, then give them a tour of the home? Don't worry about your luggage, I'll bring it up later."

_Ooo-la-la. And I just may have something hot and wet waiting for you when you arrive, Doctor._ Thinking sinfully naughty _,_ Sky smiled.

Della began heading out of the kitchen. "If you'll follow me, I'll show you around, and then to your rooms."

Ivory marble flooring shined beneath Sky's flat Gucci shoes as she walked in and out of the downstairs rooms. Fine furnishings, long, decorative window treatments, and expensive decor spread throughout the entire mansion. After viewing the basement, Della led them up the staircase to the third floor.

Sky's hand glided along the handrail as she hiked up the steps. _Look at how rich her father is, Della hasn't had to struggle a day in her life._ Wishing she'd grown up privileged like Della had, a tinge of jealousy crept up inside Sky. _Why couldn't my father love me the way Lynwood loves Della?_

Reaching the top of the staircase, Sky rounded the corner behind Della and Camille, then they entered the first room on the right _._ Sky felt her eyes stretch wide as they combed over the spacious bedroom. _Wow._ A pastel pink paint colored the walls. A white canopy bed with a hot pink satin comforter sat centered in the room. Beside the window was a recliner. The room even had its own bathroom.

"Wow. Della, this room is huge," Camille said.

"I'm sleeping in here," Sky greedily stated. She ran and hopped on the mattress. "Yep. This is my room. Called it first."

Della put her fists on her hips. "Sky, I figured I'd toss a coin to see who gets what room."

Putting her hands behind her head, Sky laid back on the bed, crossed her legs at the ankles. "Too bad. I'm sleeping in here." She winked.

Folding her arms across her chest, Della sighed. "This is not the fair way to do it, Sky."

"I'm fine with Sky having this room," Camille stated. "Whatever you have for me is fine, Della. I'm just grateful to be here with my best friends."

Della nodded. "You're so easygoing, just like my mom. Speaking of my mom, I sure wish she could be here for Thanksgiving. I miss her so much."

Sky laughed inwardly _. Not me. I'm glad your mama ain't going to be here._ Glad Della's mama was away, she pushed up on her elbows, then clambered off the mattress.

"Thanks for being so cooperative, Camille. Now let me show you to your room." Della turned on her heels, walked down the narrow hallway, and escorted Camille toward the bedroom where she'd be staying. When they reached the other guest bedroom, the door was closed.

"You'll be staying in here, Camille." Della grasped the doorknob, pushed open the door, and they walked inside. Sky's stomach hit the floor. As her eyes wandered around the overly big room, her mouth dropped open. This room was way bigger and way prettier than the room where she'd be staying. _I done fucked up._

Camille smiled so hard, Sky felt like slapping her face. "Wow. Della. This room is huge and beautiful. It has everything in it," Camille said.

"Yes. It's a master suite," Della confirmed, smiling.

Sky folded her arms across her chest. _My room looks like crap compared to this room._ An eggshell color painted the walls. The king size, diamond headboard bed with an ivory fur comforter sat on top of two wooden steps. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered the perfect view of the steep mountain outback. A sixty-inch plasma television mounted the wall. A glass wall separated the sitting area from the bedroom. And the bathroom had a huge garden tub with freaking jets.

Irritated, Sky huffed mentally _. Well, just call me stupid for choosing the first room I saw. Why does Camille always have the best of luck? Well, she don't have a man like Nate. That's for sure. London doesn't have anything on my man, with his broke ass._ "Camille, would you like to trade rooms?" Sky asked before she knew it.

Camille smiled. "No, thank you. I'm very pleased with my room."

Della had a smirk on her face. She shrugged. "I told you to flip a coin before choosing."

_These two_ _bitches get on my last nerve sometimes._

The intercom inside the room buzzed. "Della." Lynwood's deep voice came through the speaker.

"Yes, Dad?"

"I ordered some lunch for you and your guests. It should be here any minute." Lynwood's voice even sounded rich.

"Thanks, Dad."

"Ah, don't even mention it. I'm headed to the hospital and won't be back until later tonight."

"Okay. Have a good day."

"You do the same." The line went silent. Della headed out the room. "Let's go downstairs and get something to eat."

**HOURS AFTER MIDNIGHT,** clad in a white medical coat and pale blue scrubs, **** Lynwood inserted a key in the back door of his home and clicked it open. Exhausted from working all day, he emerged into the kitchen. _What a horrible day. Damn, my sweet patient died. I couldn't save her._

Feeling like crap, Lynwood stalked over to the refrigerator and pulled it open. His eyes roaming over the inside, he pulled a beer from the shelf, twisted the cap off, then chugged the cold beverage down. Too bad the drink couldn't make the pain of losing his patient go away.

Leaning his back against the counter by the sink, Lynwood finished off his beer. Holding the empty can in his hand, his heart grappled. Not only did his patient die, but he missed his wife, Gina, something terrible. _Damn, Gina. You haven't been home in five months. I'm starting to wonder if you even give a damn about us anymore. I need you tonight more than ever, and you're not here. You're still in Africa._

Lynwood released a heartfelt sigh. Stalking towards the family room, he crushed the beer can in his hand, and then tossed it in the garbage. Entering the cozy den, he headed straight for the bar against the wall. Sulking, he hefted a clear bottle containing Scotch and poured himself a stiff drink.

Holding the glass with rocks to his lips, the strong liquor sailed up his nose. _I need this just as much as I need some pussy from my wife. Damn, Gina. You need to come home. I need you._ Lynwood tilted the glass to his lips and gulped the strong drink. The liquid burned his throat like fire as he swallowed.

Pouring himself another drink, an image of the young, precious patient he'd lost came to his mind. Lynwood's heart ached. _I'm so sorry, Priscilla. I tried my hardest to save you, my little angel._ He'd never forget the look on Priscilla's mother's face when he'd told her that her precious daughter had died. _God, why didn't You help me save that little girl? You should've helped me to save her, God._

Pain pricked Lynwood's heart. Anxious to make the pain vanish, he poured himself another drink. Chugging down the drink, his eyes climbed up the staircase to find Sky standing there wearing a red, sexy negligee. Their gazes clung to one another.

Lowering the drink from his mouth, Lynwood blinked. _Jesus Christ._ What in the hell was Sky doing up this time of morning? he thought, knowing it had to be somewhere around 3 a.m.

With her jet black hair hanging over her shoulders, Sky began descending the staircase in her red, sexily clad negligee. Her hand gliding along the handrail, the short negligee she wore revealed her long, sexy legs, her slender thighs, and her curvy hips. Observing Sky, three letters came to his mind--s-e-x. His balls tingled.

After Sky reached the bottom of the staircase, she began sashaying towards him. When she came to a stop in front of him, a sweet scent streamed up Lynwood's nose. Her brown breasts perched from the thin material of her negligee, making his balls knot. _She needs to put on a robe_. "Sky. What are doing up this time of morning?"

Looking enticing, Sky swung her hair over her shoulders. "I couldn't sleep, so I came downstairs to get a glass of milk. Warm milk helps me sleep sometimes." She smiled. Beautiful dark brown complexion, cute dimples in her cheeks, a sparkle shone in Sky's eyes.

"Oh. There's some fresh milk in the refrigerator."

She put the tip of her index finger in her mouth. "Would you like to join me?"

"Join you for what?"

"Instead of having the milk, I think," she hefted the bottle of Scotch from the bar, "I'll have this." Holding the alcohol up to his face, hot seduction flickered in Sky's irises.

_I don't drink with girls your age_. Lynwood took the bottle of alcohol from Sky's hand and placed it back on the bar counter. "You're too young to be drinking, Sky." _You're not even legal._

"Age ain't nothing but a number." Her gaze lowered to his crotch, then back up to his face. "I may be young, but I'm very experienced, Doctor." Her voice held a sexy undertone.

_Is this girl coming on to me? If so, I'm not taking the bait_. _I'm a married man._ "Enjoy your milk." Lynwood turned away from Sky and stalked towards his library. The one place where he could get some solitude. The one place where he could relax and clear his mind. The one place where he could go and hide and get the hell away from his daughter's college friend--the seductive looking Skylar Brooks.

Lynwood stalked inside his office, leaving the door open. Still thinking about the way the red, sexy negligee clung to Sky's figure, exposed her perky breasts, he flopped down on the sofa, then hefted the remote to click on the stereo. A slow jazz melody sailed through the speakers, relaxing him.

Tension had his chest tight. Hard knots embedded his shoulders. Desiring another drink, he leaned his head back on the curb on the sofa and closed his eyes. _That young girl, Sky, spells trouble._

As he sat there enjoying the calm music with his head still on the curb on the sofa, Lynwood thought he heard feet dragging across the wooden floor. Suddenly, a pair of hands gripped his shoulders. His eyes sprang open to find Sky standing over him, staring down at his face. Touching him. Her sensual eyes drinking him up like he was glass of refreshing tea. Or that milk she had wanted.

_Shit._ "Sky. What are you--"

"Shhh." She pressed her hands hard into his shoulders, massaging them. "You look like you could use a massage. And I'm great at giving them, Doctor."

Sky's hands felt wonderful on him. It'd been so long since a woman had touched him. More specifically, since his wife had touched him. Wracking his brains, he couldn't remember the last time he and Gina had made wild, burning love.

Lynwood lifted his head from the curb of the sofa, sat upright, and then leaned forward. Hanging his head between his shoulders, he allowed Sky to keep massaging him, knowing it was wrong. Knowing if Della walked in and found them like this, she'd have a fit. And rightfully so.

Sky's hands left his shoulders and began kneading his back. Feeling the knots rolling beneath his skin, he inhaled a sharp, intense breath. _This feels sooo good_. "Thanks for the massage, Sky. That's enough."

Her hands still squeezing, Sky put her mouth close to his ear and breathed hotly. "But I was just getting started, Doctor." The way she purred the word 'doctor' made his shaft tingle and threaten to enlarge beneath his scrubs.

An expletive rattled at the inside of his lips but didn't come out. Horrible thoughts entered his mind. As much as he hated to admit it to himself, he couldn't help but wonder what it'd be like to sleep with Sky. Shucks, it was so obvious how much she wanted him to have sex with her.

Sky's hands slid up to his neck and squeezed. Bolts of electricity surged through Lynwood and shot straight to his loins. _Ah. This massage feels incredible. After the day I had, this is just what I need,_ he rationalized, feeling entrapped.

"Being a neurologist sounds so exciting, and important. Is it?"

Talking about his career was the last thing he wanted to do this early morning, especially considering he'd lost Priscilla just hours ago. Dread quickly filled him. "Yes, it's exciting and important."

Her delicate fingers rolled the tendons in his neck, forcing him to release an involuntary groan. "So what made you want to become a neurologist?"

"My father was a physician. In fact, he was a neurologist, too. I guess I just followed in his footsteps."

"How impressive. Working long hours, you probably stay tired, huh?"

Lynwood sighed. "Tired is an understatement. More like, I'm always exhausted."

"From the feel of the knots in your body, you stay tense."

"You're right. I'm often tense."

"How does this feel?" Sky deliberately pressed her round breasts against the upper part of his back.

Lynwood's penis throbbed. _I better end this before I do something I'll regret._ Common sense took over desire. Fighting temptation, Lynwood stood and faced Sky. His eyes raked up and down her sultry figure. _She's so damn fine and pretty._

Lynwood swallowed. "Sky," he said, trying to pretend that her plump breasts didn't bother him. Didn't make him aroused. "Thank you for the massage. I'm going to bed now."

Sky's bold, luring eyes held his gaze. "But I was just getting started."

"I probably shouldn't have let you give me a massage."

"Why not?"

"It just doesn't look right. And I'd hate for Della and Giselle or Camille to get the wrong idea about us."

"I understand." Sky ran the tip of her tongue around the outlines of her lips. Lynwood's tool throbbed. He felt a curious swooping pull at his innards. _I need a cold shower, fast._ "Are you sure you don't want me to do your arms or thighs?"

Was this girl crazy? If her hands came anywhere near his thighs, near his stem, he'd probably end up having sex with her. And there was no way in hell he was having sex in his wife's house. Nope. He'd never cheated on Gina a day in his life and didn't plan on starting now.

That being understood, Lynwood stated, "I'm positive. Goodnight, Sky." Anxious to take a cold shower, he rounded the sofa, stalked past Sky, and hastened as fast as he could away from her.

As soon as Lynwood entered his spacious master bedroom, his penis elongated down his thigh. With his manhood swollen and hurting, he locked the door behind himself, shot over to his nightstand, and yanked it open.

He grabbed the tube of lubricant, yanked his pant scrubs to his ankles, kicked them off, and sat on the mattress. Holding the tip of his erection with his fingers in one hand, he held the tube upside down with the other, and then squeezed a heap of the thick, clear jelly on his hard length. Tossing the lubricant on the bed, he gripped his hot, hard shaft and started jerking it up and down in his tight fist. Damn Sky for making him succumb to this. For making him want her. He was minding his own damn business, and here she comes, out of nowhere, trying to seduce him. Women. Girls.

Self-pleasuring himself, he groaned. He ran the pad of his thumb over his swollen head, then stroked his shaft downward in his slick, lubricated hand. Pumping himself faster, heat bore into his thickness. An image of Sky wearing the enticing red negligee came into his mind's view.

Imagining Sky's sex sliding up and down on his rod, he jerked himself hard. And harder. And harder. "Uhh. Mmm. Arrrgh." Semen flew from his shaft and covered his hand.

# Chapter Five

**_Thursday, Thanksgiving Day_**

Sunlight beamed down on the brown, rugged mountain behind the Thortons' mansion. White ducks flapped their wings high in the sky, flying past the immaculate backyard with thick, emerald grass. A cool afternoon breeze sailed through Camille's hair as she sat in the chair on the back porch between Sky and Della, thinking about how much she missed London.

Peering at the mountain in the distance, Camille brought her fingers up to her lips and relished the way London had kissed her mouth the night before she'd left to come to Atlanta. He'd left her mouth burning with fire. His tender kiss had left her body burning, too. Gosh, she couldn't wait to see him when she returned to school.

Camille looked at Sky, who sat to her right. "I miss London so much."

Sky sucked her teeth. "But you hardly know him, Camille."

Remembering how London's shaft had turned to stone on her stomach while at the jazz club on their first date made Camille yearn for him even more. "I know I hardly know him, but I still miss him. I'm surprised at how much I miss him myself. Last night when he called me, he said that he missed me, too."

Sky shook her head. "I'm not trying to be negative, but you can't believe everything these guys or men out here tell you. For all you know, London could be telling you one thing, and telling somebody else something different. If you don't watch it, you're going to end up with the wrong man."

Della gave Sky a strange look. "I'm sure you know what you're talking about, Sky, when it comes to no-good men. After all, you're fucking a senator, and he's a married man."

"Della!" Sky's finger shot up to her mouth. "Shhh. You're loud. Your father could've overheard you."

Della glanced back over her shoulder into the family room, and then back at Sky. "Whew. I was loud, wasn't I? If my father found out that you were sleeping with a married man, he wouldn't want me to hang around you anymore. He hates adulterers."

Sky tilted her head. "So you don't think that your father has ever cheated on your mother?"

Della's mouth frowned. "No. I know for a fact that my father would _never_ cheat on my mother. He loves her more than life itself."

Sky wagged a finger at Della. "Never say never. I didn't think my father would cheat on my mother either, and lo and behold, he did, and then walked out on her."

"Your dad and my dad are two different people," Della responded.

Sky's brows arched. "Yeah, well they both have dicks. And a man gon' be a man."

"There are some good men out there, Sky" Camille stated.

Della came in with, "And my dad is one of them. He'd never look at another woman."

The sliding glass door slid open, and Giselle appeared. "Dinner's ready. Daddy cooked a feast. I made the desserts."

Della bolted from her chair. "I'm starving."

Sky hopped out of her chair. "I love a man that can cook."

Camille rose to her feet. "I'm hungry," she said, rubbing her belly, still thinking about London. _I wonder what London's mother cooked for Thanksgiving. Gosh, I can't wait to get back to school so I can see him again. Kiss him again. Hug him again._

Cornbread dressing sailed inside Camille's nostrils as she walked towards the dining room behind the other girls. _Mmm_. Reaching the dining table covered with all sorts of foods, her stomach growled. A whole fried turkey, ham, roast beef, homemade dressing, sweet potato casserole, creamed corn, rice pilaf, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and green beans toppled the orange table cloth covering the long rectangular table. Everything looked delicious.

Camille looked at Della's father. "This looks so good, Dr. Thorton."Standing at the head of the table, Dr. Thorton's lips turned upward. "Thanks, Camille. Please, call me Lynwood."

Camille nodded. "Okay."

"You cooked all of this by yourself?" Sky questioned, her eyes glowing.

"Yes. I did. Giselle made the desserts. The sweets are in the kitchen."

"I'm impressed, Lynwood."

Camille agreed with Sky, Lynwood's talents were impressive and admirable. Just like her London's skills were. Her London? Oh Lordy, she shouldn't be thinking about London in such a way. London was not her man. For all she knew, Sky may be right. London could be a no-good dog and the wrong guy for her. The thought that London may be all wrong for her threatened to make her sad, so she pushed the negative thought from her head.

Positioned between his daughters, Lynwood reached for their hands. Holding his children's hands, he stated, "Let's please hold hands so I can bless the food." Camille grabbed Della and Sky's hands, bowed her head. Everyone followed suit. With his head bowed and eyes closed, Lynwood started to pray. "Heavenly Father. As we gather here, on this beautiful Thanksgiving day, I'd like to say thank you for all you've done for each and every one of us. Thank you for the food on this table. For the necessities you provide. For giving us the opportunity to have this beautiful fellowship. Please bless the food on the table. May it be a nourishment to our bodies. We love you, Lord. Amen."

"Amen," everyone said in unison, opening their eyes, lifting their heads.

Camille and the others all took their respective seats. Hungry as heck, Camille lifted the big spoon in front of her plate and scooped a big heaping of macaroni and cheese on her plate. Sky handed her a bowl with collards, and she put that on her plate, too. Then Della handed her a dish swarming with yummy sweet potatoes, and yep, she added the sweet smelling food as well. Throwing a piece of fried turkey on her plate, Camille couldn't even see her plate now. _My stomach is going to burst if I eat all of this._ She forked some macaroni and cheese into her mouth. The gooey cheese piped on her tongue. __ "This macaroni and cheese is delicious, Dr. Thorton. I mean...Lynwood."

Lynwood chuckled. "Thanks, Camille. I got the recipe from my mother."

"Oh, my God," Sky said, chewing, "this sweet potato casserole is great. Delicious. You're going to have to teach me how to make this before I leave."

Lynwood chortled. "Okay."

The house phone rang loud. Della's face lit up. "That's probably Mom." She scooted her chair back and hurried towards the kitchen to go get the phone. A few moments, later Della shouted out, "Dad. Giselle. It's Mom. She wants to talk to y'all." In a hurry, Giselle and Lynwood made their way to the kitchen.

**GISELLE HANDED LYNWOOD** the phone, then she and Della went back into the dining room to finish their Thanksgiving meals. Anxious to speak with his wife, Lynwood placed the phone to his ear. "Hello, Gina."

"Hi, Lynwood. Happy Thanksgiving."

"Thanks. It'd be happier if you were here, Gina," he said, pulling open the sliding glass door, walking outdoors on the porch. Lynwood, Gina, and his daughters had always shared Thanksgiving together as a family, and her constant absence was beginning to take a toll on him, mentally and physically.

"I miss you, Lynwood." Gina's soft voice made his heart stir.

"I miss you, too, Gina. How's Africa?" Lynwood inhaled the outdoors air.

"Africa is sad. Many children are dying here from starvation and disease. These beautiful children are so helpless. I'm just happy I'm here to help."

"When are you coming home, Gina? I miss you terribly. I'm dying to make love to you. To hold you. It's been way too long since I've been inside of you. I need my wife at home with me." A long, silent pause passed. _She's avoiding the question_. "Gina, I don't want you to work anymore. I have plenty of money to take care of you and the girls, if needed. I want you to come home by the end of this week. For good, Gina. For good."

Gina's weighted sigh irritated Lynwood. _She doesn't want to come home_. "Lynwood, we've been through this before. I love working. Della and Giselle are in college now. If I were to come back to Atlanta, I'd be home alone, doing nothing. I'd be bored stiff. Medicine is my passion. Please don't ask me to give up my career, baby."

Frustration rose inside Lynwood. _Damn her_. "What about us, Gina? When this all started, you were supposed to be gone for two months, and that's it. It's going on six months. Six. Damn. Months. I'm tired of jacking off, Gina." _Fucking my hand ain't getting it._

"Oh, Lynwood, I miss making love to you, too, but--"

"Gina, you're hesitating. Are you coming home soon or not?"

"Lynwood, children are dying over here and need my help. These poor kids can't get an education. Some of the children sleep in trees and in the woods. I can't just leave them like this. I'm all they have."

_She's not coming home_. "What about us, Gina? I know the children are dying over there, but so is our marriage. It's dying, too. I can't talk about this right now. I need to go and rejoin the girls for dinner. HHGoodbye, Gina," he said, devastated.

"I love you, Lynwood," Gina said.

_Yeah, right._ "It sure doesn't feel like it." Lynwood ended the call. Sulking over Gina's constant absence, he walked towards the dining room to rejoin the girls. At the head of the table, he pulled out his chair and took his seat.

Eating his food in silence, he listened to the girls as they sat chatting about their college lives and other things. Chewing the dressing, his gaze left Della's face and transferred to Sky's. Sky's lips curled upward, exposing the deep dimples in her cheeks.

At the remembrance of how Sky had massaged him last night, Lynwood's tool pulsed. _The sooner Sky leaves, the better._

_Giselle asked, "Are we still going to Grandma's house after dinner?"_

"Of course we are. It's our family tradition," Lynwood stated.

Della smiled. "Camille and Sky...you are going to love my grandmother. She is hilarious."

Sky grabbed her stomach. "Lynwood, if you don't mind, I'd like to stay here while y'all go visiting. I haven't been feeling well for the last couple of days."

"Of course you can stay here. Make yourself at home," Lynwood stated.

"Oh, yeah?" Della said, "Well, you look like you feel fine to me."

Sky's eyes turned gloomy. "That's because I've been hiding it. I didn't want you to worry."

Camille placed her hand on Sky's shoulder. "I hope you feel better."

Sky shrugged. "Thanks, Camille. Maybe if I take some stomach medicine, I'll feel better."

Lynwood hefted the glass of raspberry ice tea to his mouth and sipped. Beholding Sky's face, the cool liquid glided down his dry throat _. I have something that may make you feel better_ , _Sky_ , Lynwood thought, remembering how enticing she'd looked last night in her red, sexy negligee. Her breasts had looked firm, like delicious plums. Her thighs had looked voluptuous. Her hips had swayed, and her sexy mouth had beckoned him to kiss her. _Sky got to get her ass out of here before I do something I may regret._ Feeling his manhood threatening to grow hard beneath his jeans, Lynwood drank some more of his beverage, hoping it'd cool his insides off.

**LATER ON THAT EVENING** , Sky lay on her back in the bed inside the guest bedroom. Staring at the ceiling and feeling great, she clasped her hands to her belly and smiled. _There was no way in hell I was going to Della's grandmother's house. I'd rather fake sick than to go be around an old lady on my Thanksgiving break. Talk about boring._

Sky heard the engine of Lynwood's BMW crank. A second later, the sound of tires rolling over pavement resounded in her ears. _Yes. They're leaving._ Glad they were leaving, she slang the covers off her body, bolted upright in bed, then flung her feet to the floor.

Smiling, Sky peered out the window and noticed Lynwood's car was no longer in the driveway. "I'm so glad they're gone. I need some time to myself," she mumbled. "Let's see. What am I going to do?" A naughty thought occurred to her. Well, it didn't just occur to her. Actually, she'd been wanting to do it ever since last night.

Glad to finally be alone at Della's mansion, Sky rolled her shirt over her head, removed her bra, and tossed it on the bed. Placing her tank top back on, she walked over to the dresser. Glancing in the mirror, she loved the way her nipples pressed against the material of her tank top.

Admiring her body, she turned to glimpse at her behind. Taking in the sight of her curves, she smiled. _I saw you looking at my ass today, Lynwood. I can tell that you want me. If Della knew her daddy wanted to sleep with her friend, she'd have a fit. Talking about her daddy would never cheat on her mama. I'm starting to think Della is stupid._

Snickering, Sky exited the bedroom and began descending the staircase. The wood beneath her bare feet shined and looked expensive as she stood in front of the closed door of Lynwood's master bedroom. Letting curiosity get the best of her, she grasped the doorknob and turned.

Slowly walking inside the luxurious bedroom, Sky's eyes stretched wide. "Wow. This is some fancy room." Floor-to-ceiling ivory drapes covered the wide windows. Long, sheer scarves draped the four poster bed. The dresser had legs made of gold, lion claws. With his and hers walk-in closets, the bedroom also had a small study, a sitting area, and huge bathroom. Not to mention beyond the sliding glass door sat a Jacuzzi out on an outdoor deck.

Sky hefted a framed picture of Lynwood and Gina from the dresser. "So this is where you get laid, Gina," she mumbled, glaring at the photo of the couple. Sky felt her face itch out of envy. "I guess Gina doesn't look too bad. She's cuter than what I expected. But she don't look better than me," she said, replacing the picture of the married couple back onto the dresser.

Turning, Sky walked over to the tall jewelry box by the window. She lifted the top of the jewelry box. A huge diamond ring glittered right before her eyes. _Whoa. Now that's what I call a freaking rock._ She plucked the diamond platinum ring from the slit, slid it on her wedding finger, and held out her hand. The gigantic diamond sparkled on her finger. __ "Gina Thorton, you are one lucky woman. I'd do anything to have a man like Lynwood."

"Too bad my wife don't feel the same as you," the deep voice said from behind, startling her. Sky flinched. Her heart dunked. _Lynwood!_

Deeply ashamed, Sky slowly turned around to face Lynwood. "I was just looking. I promise. Just admiring."

Lynwood stood beneath the arch in the door, his eyes raking up and down her body. "It's okay if you look." Lynwood's eyes gleamed with seduction. He shut the door and locked it. Walking towards her, he began closing the distance between them. _Oh, God. What is he going to do?_ Now towering her, he cupped her shoulders. "I like looking, too, Sky. Looking at the way the way you look at me. Looking at the way you want me. Looking at how you want me to do this." Lynwood covered his mouth daringly with hers, giving Sky exactly what she'd craved for ever since she'd first laid eyes on him--a scorching kiss.

Twining her tongue with Lynwood's, Sky thrashed her tongue deeper inside his mouth and moaned huskily. _I knew you wanted me, Lynwood. Just knew it._

Feasting on her lips, Lynwood's hardness grinded Sky's sheathed mound. Moisture formed in her opening. Suddenly, Lynwood's gyrating halted. He broke their heated kiss. His eyes darting back and forth, he cupped her face and stared deeply into her eyes.

"Where's Della and the crew?"

"They're gone to visit their grandmother, as planned. Right before I was about to leave, I got an emergency call from the hospital, so I told them I'd catch up with them later," Lynwood confirmed.

"Oh." Sky traveled her hand up the length of his arm, caressing him.

Looking like he wanted to lick her like an ice cream cone, Lynwood shook his head. "Oh, my God, Sky. I can't do this. You're my daughter's age...just a baby."

"I'm not a baby, Lynwood. I'm a grown woman. Have you ever known a baby to feel like this?" Sky gripped Lynwood's wrists and placed his hands on her tingling breasts. Squeezing her tender breasts, Lynwood shook his head. "I didn't think so." With her fingers curled tight around his right wrist, Sky guided Lynwood's hand inside her pants, then over the crotch area of her wet panties. Lynwood's fingers pressed into her center. "I'm wet," she purred, writhing her heat against his fingers.

Heat flickered in Lynwood's pupils. A hoarse groan broke from his lips. "I want you, Sky."

She cupped his face. "I want you, too, Lynwood."

Lynwood quickly pulled Sky's shirt over her head, rolled her yoga pants down her legs, removing them, then undressed himself. Standing before one another naked, he yanked Sky off her feet, carried her to the bed, and then dropped her on the mattress. Rolling her black nipple between her fingers, she spread her legs wide open on the white, soft comforter.

His erection pointing straight out, Lynwood shuddered. He lowered himself on top of Sky, gripped his hard on, then inserted her.

Loud moans and harsh groans bounced off the walls inside the room as Sky and Lynwood engaged in an adulterous sexual affair. Five minutes later, Lynwood threw his head back and roared. His hot seed shot from him into Sky's channel. Ovulating, Sky wrapped her legs around his waist, caressed the tendons of his back, and smiled. Still wearing Gina's big diamond ring, Sky couldn't have been happier. _I pray you just got me pregnant, Lynwood_ , she thought, feeling Lynwood's shaft softening inside her.

# Chapter Six

**_Washington, D.C._**

Several weeks after Thanksgiving break, excited football fans packed Howard University's football stadium. Loud cheers resounded through the chilly night air. With the game against Morehouse tied twenty-seven to twenty-seven, Camille sat in the stands, praying hard that London would help his team win the game. The Bisons' players left the sideline and went to position themselves on the field.

Clasping her hands to her mouth, Camille stood and peered out at the wide green football field. _It's showtime._ Nerves on edge, she said, "I'm so nervous, Della."

"Me, too. I bet your man London is nervous, too." Appearing to be on pins and needles, Della chewed on her thumbnail.

Standing on the other side of Camille, Sky put her hands on her hips. "I'm sure London is scared as hell. I hope he don't fuck up this game," she commented.

_Sky is working my last nerve._ "All London can do is his best, Sky."

"Don't you ever have anything positive to say?" Della asked.

Sky put a hand to her stomach. "I'm sorry if I sound negative. I'm so queasy, I can't think straight."

"Maybe the hot dog you ate has you sick," Della said.

Sky rubbed circles on her stomach. "I don't know what has me so sick lately."

The referee blew the whistle and signaled for the play to begin. _Come on, London. You can do it,_ Camille thought, nibbling her bottom lip. With the football clutched tight in his grip, London rolled outward and threw the ball in the air towards talented receiver Jimmy Harold.

Quick on his feet, Jimmy scuttled towards the end zone, leapt up in the air, and caught the ball, making a touchdown. The crowd roared. Jumping up and down, Camille screamed at the top of her lungs.

The Caucasian gentleman standing in front of Camille punched the air. "That damn London can throw!"

Another man shouted, "I bet you five thousand dollars London is going to be a first round pick!"

Photographers and reporters hastened onto the field up to London and Jimmy.

_That's my man_. "Way to go, London!" Camille shouted, clapping her hands. "I knew you could do it!" _God, I'm so glad to be back at school_.

Sky's face scrunched. "Can we go now? I don't feel good. I'm re--" Vomit flew from Sky's mouth and landed on her sneakers.

Camille gasped. As she placed a gentle palm to Sky's spine, a pungent order attacked her nose. "Oh, my God, Sky. You really are sick."

"Are you pregnant, girl?" Della's asked, shouting over the still loud crowd.

Eyes watery, Sky gave her head an adamant shake. "No, I'm not pregnant. That nasty hot dog I ate has me sick."

_Dear Lord, I hope Sky isn't pregnant. The last thing she needs is to be pregnant from Nate, a married man._ "Let's go home."

Sky's head jerked. "Home? I ain't going home. I'm going to the afterparty."

Camille laughed. "Sky, girl, you're too much for me."

Sky dragged her hand across her mouth. "I'm too much for everybody."

**AN HOUR LATER** , Camille, along with Della and Sky, mounted the steps of the Omega Psi Phi frat house and entered. Music blasted the air. Guys and girls packed the inside of the house. _Dang, it's crowded in here_.

Making her way through the rowdy partygoers, Camille's eyes roamed over the crowded room in search for London. Since they'd returned to school from Thanksgiving break, she hadn't seen London in person. Only had spoken to him via phone. According to him, he'd been too busy studying and practicing to be with her. Hopefully, he was telling the truth.

Suddenly, football receiver Jimmy Harold appeared beneath the arch in the den. Dark chocolate skin, smoky black eyes, he looked Sky up and down. Sliding his hands in his front jeans pockets, he jutted his chin towards the second level.

Sky put her mouth close to Camille's ear and whispered. "I'll be back. I'm going upstairs."

Desperate to see London, Camille nodded. "Okay." London's roommate, Jimmy, followed Sky up the staircase.

"I'm going to dance." Della walked off, leaving Camille alone. Walking over to stand in a dark corner, her eyes scanned the room for London. _Where's London? He should be here by now._ As she stood in the dark corner, hoping London would hurry up and get there, a guy by the name of Perry spotted her and began heading in her direction. _Oh no._

"Camille, Camille, Camille," Perry's speech slurred, his breath smelled of strong alcohol. "How you doing, ma?"

"Hi, Perry."

Perry licked his lips. "You sure are looking good, ma. Can I get a dance?"

_Get lost_. "Not right now. Maybe later."

"What's wrong with right now? I don't--"

The song "Atomic Dog" came on. The hard bass from the song made the house rock. "Ah shit! That's my damn song!" Perry shot to the dance floor, along with his fraternity brothers. Right on cue to the thumping beat, the boys jumped high into the air and began stepping. "Aaatooomic doooggg! Ruff!"

As Camille watched the Qs' performance, a brown haired female rolled up to her. "Are you Camille Hastings?"

"Yes. I'm Camille. And--"

Disdain appeared on the girl's face. "First name Lisa. Last name ain't none of your damn business. I'm just gon' cut through the bullshit and get straight to the point." Putting her hands on her hips, Lisa rolled her neck. "Word around campus is that you have a thing for my man, London Cunningham. Is that true?"

_Your man?_ Camille took a step backward, putting space between her and Lisa. "Yes. London and I are good friends."

Lisa scoffed. "Well, not for long. London is my man, and you better leave him alone." Camille's heart sunk. London had told her he wasn't dating anyone. Stunned, Camille fought to maintain a straight face and not show how upset she was. Lisa continued. "Tell London I will be waiting for him back at my dorm room." Just as Lisa turned sharply, Camille gently grabbed her elbow. "Get your fucking hands off me, you trifling bitch!" Lisa spat, snatching her arm out of Camille's grip.

"London told me he wasn't dating anyone."

"If he told you that, he's a liar!" Frowning, Lisa's eyes turned to tiny evil slits. "He's mine, Camille. Mine." Lisa left Camille standing in the center of the room, feeling like a complete idiot.

Ready to leave the party, Camille walked towards the staircase. How could London lie to her like this? How could he say he wasn't dating anyone when he was? How could he kiss her lips so tender and caress her spine so gently when all along he had a girlfriend? She had to get out of there, quick. Just as Camille's right foot tapped the step, a hard hand clutched her shoulder. She whirled.

London stood in front of her with a big grin on his handsome face. "Hello, beautiful." At the sound of his deep voice, Camille's insides were tempted to melt.

"Hi, London. Goodbye, London." Desperate to escape him, she started for the front door.

"Where are you going?" he asked, trailing closely behind her.

"I'm leaving," she said, not bothering to turn around to face him.

"Leaving? But I just got here." Camille grasped the door, flung it open, and stepped outside into the cool night air. She jogged down the steps, with London behind her. "Camille, wait. What's wrong?"

When Camille reached the foot of the steps, she halted. "Lisa is what's wrong."

Seemingly baffled, London's eyes rounded. "Lisa? Lisa who?"

"Your girlfriend, Lisa, that's who. She came up to me tonight and told me the two of you are dating. You should've been honest and told me you were dating her."

His face twisted. Releasing a low grunt, he shook his head. "Lisa and I broke up a long time ago. We're not dating. She's obsessed with me, Camille."

Camille's anger tried to soften. "Look, London. I like you, but I don't have time for games. I not going to date you if you're involved with someone else."

London put a finger to Camille's chin, tilting her head back. "Listen to me, Camille. And listen to me good. I do not want Lisa. She and I are over, and have been for some time now. I only have eyes for one girl, and that's you. You, baby, you." London's full lips descended down on Camille's. He slid his tongue inside her mouth and twirled it. Kissing him back, Camille's annoyance dissolved. He broke their tender kiss. "Let's go back inside and enjoy the party." Grabbing her hand, he led her back inside the house.

As soon as they reentered the party, a slow song by Destiny's Child came on, serenading the room. "Come dance with me." He escorted her to the dance floor, circled his arms around her waist, and drew her to him. Slow dancing side to side, her nipples tingled. _Screw you, Lisa._ Twining her arms behind his thick neck, Camille spotted Della across the room, dancing with a handsome man.

London lowered his mouth to Camille's ear. "I see my brother has hooked up with your roommate, Della."

Camille's eyes transferred to Della and the guy she was dancing with. Della looked like she was in heaven. She then fixated her eyes back on London. "That's your brother?"

"Yes. His name is Chad. He wants to go to law school, too."

After the song ended, London cupped Camille's hand and led her towards the kitchen. On their way there, she spotted Lisa across the room, staring her up and down.

Arms folded across her chest, a hard frown etched Lisa's face as she made her way towards them. Seeing how angry she looked, an uncomfortable feeling rolled over Camille.

Lisa met up with London and Camille in front of the kitchen entrance. Tears formed in Lisa's eyes. "Didn't I tell you to stay away from London?"

London draped his arm around Camille's shoulder. "Leave Camille alone, Lisa. She and I are in a serious relationship."

_We are?_ When was London going to tell her they were in a serious relationship? Camille thought, glowing on the inside.

Lisa sniffled. "Since when? You'll always belong to me, London."

London squeezed the ball of Camille's shoulder. "I don't belong to you, Lisa. We've been over for a long time now, so stop lying to people. Claiming we're still together when we're not. I've moved on, and so should you."

Lisa looked at Camille and spat, "If you don't leave London alone, you'll be sorry. All he wants to do is fuck you. As soon as he gets tired of you, he's going to come running back to me."

"You're pathetic, Lisa. Let's go, Camille," London grumbled.

Before they had a chance to leave, Lisa hacked up a wad of mucus and spit it in Camille's face. Camille swung, connecting her fist to the jealous girl's right cheek. Cupping her swollen face, Lisa's mouth dropped.

London drew back his fist. Holding his knuckles up in the air over Lisa's face, he snorted. "I've never hit a girl before, and it's taking everything in me not to knock the living shit out of you."

"I saw that, bitch!" Sky came out of nowhere and attacked Lisa. Lisa fell to the ground on her knees. As Sky punched Lisa in the back, loud screams erupted from Lisa's throat.

"Oh no, she didn't!" Some girl who was obviously friends with Lisa said, running to jump in the brawl.

Before Camille knew it, everybody started fighting. Hoots and hollers resounded about the house. Food was thrown. Liquid beer was tossed in the air. Tables crashed into.

"I don't want my girl around this foolishness." London jerked Camille off her feet, placed her over his shoulder, and carried her out the house through the back door, like he was her knight in shining armor. Like a guy who cared about her safety. Like a guy who may actually fall in love with her someday. Well, at least she hoped so.

# Chapter Seven

Sunlight slipped through the cracked blinds inside Camille's dorm room and shined down on her face as she lay in bed on her back. Feeling her face heating, she rolled onto her side. Releasing a long yawn, she opened her eyes to find Della sitting upright in her bed, staring at her.

"That was some fight last night, wasn't it?!"

The ugly image of the fight at the Omega house party came rushing inside Camille's head. She eased up on her elbows. "Yes. I feel so bad."

Della's brows scrunched. "Why?"

"I just feel like I'm the reason why the fight started. I hate drama."

Della clucked her tongue. "Girl, please. Lisa begged for that ass whooping, and I'm glad Sky gave it to her."

Camille turned sideways, placing her feet to the floor. "That was nice of Sky to have my back."

"It's good to know she's good for something other than screwing women's husbands."

Suddenly, Camille's cell buzzed on the nightstand. Picking up her cell, she noticed it was London calling her. "Hello?"

"Good morning, beautiful," London announced.

"Good morning, London. How are you?"

"I'll be doing great if you let me take you out today."

"Sure. Where to--" Camille heard a loud pop in the background. "What's that noise?"

London chuckled. "That's my roommate, Jimmy. Man, get out of here with that damn farting."

"That was Jimmy passing gas?"

"Yes. That joker is foul. Stank as hell. Gon', Jimmy. Damn." London laughed.

Camille heard Jimmy say, "Man, I ain't going nowhere. I got to fart, now deal with it."

London laughed. "Okay. Now where was I?"

"You--"

"Oh, yeah. I want us to hook up today, if you're not doing anything."

"I'm free." Even if she did have plans, she'd make time for him.

"Good. I'll pick you up by twelve. By feet, of course. I promise, Camille...one day I'm going to come get you for a date in a big, fancy car. And if things goes as I hope, I'm going to someday buy you your own car, too."

"Oh. How sweet. Just to let you know, it doesn't bother me that you don't have a car. I'm just happy to be spending time with you."

"You're my kind of girl. See you around noon."

**CHILLY AIR BLEW** in the sweet December, Saturday afternoon air. White, wispy clouds floated in the pale blue sky. Leaves spiraled from a tree down on Camille's head as she and London walked along the concrete, holding hands, approaching the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial located in West Potomac Park. Coming to a stop in front of the gigantic memorial, London's eyes hiked up to Martin's face.

Admiring the statue, London turned to peer at Camille. A look of awe was on Camille's face. Obviously mesmerized, she finally looked at him. "This is amazing."

London cleared his throat. "Yes, it is. This is the most beautiful piece of art I've ever seen. Martin did so much for us. Made it possible for us to have hope, and dreams. Have civil rights. Build positive relations with people of all races, ethnicities, and cultures."

"Martin is a hero." Camille's sexy mouth eased into a smile, making London's heart thud harsh in his chest. _I love you, Camille._ _Errrk, scratch that. Where in the hell had that thought come from? I'm too young to be in love._

London pushed the scary thought of love to the back of his mind. "I agree. Martin is a hero. Let's go see the monument."

London draped his arm about Camille's shoulders, then turned and walked away. Camille gazed up at him. Her bright eyes twinkled, letting him know she was enjoying the date he'd carefully planned for her. Jesus Christ, he liked this girl. A whole lot. More than he'd ever liked anyone else. Desiring to kiss her soft looking lips, his rod tingled.

Earlier this morning, he'd told her that he was going to buy her a car someday, and he'd meant it. If things kept going the way they were, he planned on spending all his money on her. Planned on spending all his free time with her. Planned on treating her like she deserved to be treated--like a queen. Like a beautiful woman.

A short while later, London and Camille approached the tall Washington Monument. Made of marble and granite, U.S. flags encircled the pointy-topped building standing east of the reflecting pool and Lincoln Memorial.

Camille glanced upward at the structure. "The monument is so tall."

"It's five hundred and fifty-four feet. The world's tallest stone structure."

"How do you know so much about everything?"

"I read a lot. Study a lot, too."

"Oh yeah, you've said that before."

"Would you like to take a ride on the elevator to the top?"

Camille nodded. "Yes. Riding so high up, this is going to be an adventure. I love riding, especially rough rides."

Hell, he had something rough she could ride, he thought, a smile coming on his face. She could climb on top of his lap and ride his dick. Ride it rough and hard. Slide her sex up and down on it. Bounce on it, too, if she wanted.

Short moments later, London and Camille entered the monument's elevator. As the elevator climbed toward the top, London's ears clogged from the increasing depth of the altitude.

The doors of the elevator glided open. London and Camille stepped off the ride out into the open, and then went and stood by the stone wall. As London admired the beautiful D.C. city from way up high, a light breeze brushed his scalp.

Miles of beautiful grassy lands stretched throughout the city. Vehicles crowded the streets. Lavender-greyish moss spiraled from tall, scrawny trees of either side of the sidewalk, leading towards the U.S. Capitol Building. The White House sat in the far distance. People walked to and fro, snapping pictures, smiling, and simply enjoying themselves.

"Wow, London...D.C. is so beautiful from up here," Camille stated. "This is the best date ever. Thanks for bringing me here."

"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself." More than anything, he'd wanted to please her. And from what she'd just said, he'd done exactly that...please her. Maybe someday she'll let him make love to her and please her body. Please it by taking the tip of his tongue and licking her nipples till she moaned. Licking the circle of her sweet sex till her eyes watered. Licking her clitoris till her toes curled and his face got sloppy wet. Thinking about penetrating Camille, London's sac rolled into hard balls. Ever since he'd picked her up today, he'd been horny.

"I could stay here all day." Camille's voice broke his daydream of getting in-between her luscious thighs.

London's stomach growled. "I'm getting hungry. Are you?"

"Yes."

"Let's go get some lunch. I know the perfect place I'm taking you."

"I'm sure you do. After all, there's nothing you don't know."

"I'm glad you recognize that."

Smiling, Camille tilted her head. "You're a little cocky, I see."

"Not cocky. Just confident." The doors of the elevator glided open, they stepped inside, and as the ride descended, London's ears unclogged.

Fifteen minutes later, London and Camille sat at the front of the green trolley, enjoying Dupont Circle's historical scenery. Twelve blocks from the White House, the trolley slowed in front of a three-story crimson building with white columns and let them off.

Stuck in the grass of the house was a sign that read _The Swann's Palace_. London placed his hand in the small of Camille's back and guided her towards the unique eatery that he'd heard so many positive things about but had never been to. When he'd called to get information on it, the owner had assured him that Camille would have a wonderful time there.

London clambered up the steps of the house, pulled open the door for Camille, and walked up to the host stand to let them know he'd arrived. _She's going to love this,_ he thought __ as the host escorted them towards their seat.

Walking along the dark hallway towards the rear, London's eyes took in the antique décor. A nineteenth century, wooden carved fireplace roasting wood sat to his right. Antique chandeliers made out of thick sticks sparkled from ceilings. Burgundy paint colored the old, aged walls with dark brown paneling.

"What kind of food do they serve here?" Camille asked, her eyes glowing.

"I heard they sell a little bit of everything. It's a bed and breakfast. Supposedly they have one of the best gardens there is to see outback. When I remembered how much you said you loved gardening, I thought it'd be nice to have lunch here."

Camille's lips curled into a smile. "You actually remembered what my hobby is?"

"Yes, Camille. I remember everything you tell me. I spoke with the owner, and she said you could pick some flowers and take them home with you, if you like."

**WHEN THE HOST** pulled open the back door, Camille's mouth slowly parted. The garden had the most beautiful plants, flowers, and greenery she'd ever seen in her whole entire life. Closing her mouth, she descended the steps behind London and the host.

The host sat them at a table in front of a water fountain surrounded by lavender tulips and white daffodils. _Wow! This is freaking amazing. He's a keeper. So romantic._

After the host walked off, London pulled the chair from beneath the table so she could sit, and then he rounded the table and sat across from her. Picking up the menu, warmth infused her heart, then traveled to her center.

Gazing into London's brown eyes, Camille's sex clenched. No guy had ever been this nice to her. Or had taken the time out to plan a special date for her, doing things like gardening and visiting the Martin Luther King Memorial.

Clenching the menu in his hands, London gazed at Camille over the edge. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

_I think I'm in love._ "Because...I'm so impressed by you, and this date. I'm having a marvelous time."

His lips pulled into a handsome smile, making her insides sizzle."I'm glad you're enjoying yourself, Camille. I am, too."

Camille lowered her gaze to the menu. Settling on the turkey club sandwich, Italian macaroni salad, and a Diet Coke, she folded her menu and stared at London as he read the menu. Everything about him was beautiful. From his hair to his handsome face to his muscles and personality, he was beautiful.

"I'm having the turkey club sandwich," he said, folding his menu.

"Me, too."

"Great minds think alike."

"Yes, they do."

After indulging in the delicious meal, Camille grabbed a wicker basket, rounded the water fountain, and walked around in the garden with London by her side. With tall trees shielding them, she bent down, picked a red rose from its stem. Putting the open flower to the tip of her nose, she inhaled the sweet, delicate flower. "Mmm. Smells good. It's so peaceful here, London. I feel like I'm in heaven."

"You're so pretty, Camille."

"Thanks."

"Every woman deserves a beautiful rose." London's baritone voice sent chills running wild through her body. He plucked a peach rose with a red tip from its limb, traced the outlines of her face with it, and then slid the flower into her hair.

He clutched her shoulders, put his erection on her stomach. Slipped his tongue inside her mouth and swirled. Electrical heat zapped Camille's veins and shot straight to her core, making her wet as heck.

Groaning, his kiss was hard and intense. Thoroughly enjoying London's tender kisses, Camille became lightheaded. Her head spinning, her knees turned to elastic. When he released her mouth, her knees buckled, but before she hit the ground, he caught her with his strong, athletic arms.

Cradling her weakened body to the rippled muscles of his chest, a smile tipped the corners of his mouth. "Don't fall, my beautiful Camille." She nodded. _Too bad. I've already fallen for you. Fallen madly in love with you._ Releasing her from his embrace, he dug into his back jean pocket and pulled out a small, cranberry colored box. He continued. "With the Christmas break right around the corner, I thought today would be a good day to give you your Christmas present. I know it's early, but I couldn't wait for you to have it."

"Thanks. You didn't have to buy me anything."

"Of course I had to buy you something...you're my woman."

London's claim on Camille brought her immeasurable joy. "I'm glad to be your woman, London."

"I'm glad to be your man, shorty," he said, smiling.

Camille took the box from London's opened hand and popped the lid back. Inside the box lay a dainty silver bracelet. "London, this is so beautiful, I love it."

"Here," he said, plucking the jewelry from the box. "Let me put in on your wrist for you." He encircled the jewelry around her wrist, and it looked absolutely beautiful. He brought the back of her hand with the bracelet up to his brown, sexy lips to kiss it. "I'm going to miss you over the long Christmas break."

She cupped his jaw. "I'm going to miss you, too."

"I'm your man now. You better not meet anyone else when you go home."

"Oh, I can assure you, you're the only man for me." _I love you._ "This has been the perfect date."

"Speaking of perfect, do you want to know what I think about you?"

She shrugged. "What?"

He cupped her face. "You'd make the perfect wife someday," he said hoarsely, sealing her lips with a tender kiss.

# Chapter Eight

H _ow did I get myself in this stupid mess?_ Dressed in a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes, fifteen hundred dollar Saint Laurent jeans, white shirt, and Louis Vuitton purse strapped over her shoulder, __ Sky stood on the front porch of Senator's Nathaniel Obinwa's house, ringing his doorbell like a fool. Ever since she'd told Nate she was pregnant, he'd been avoiding her, leaving her no choice but to show up uninvited at his home.

Furious with the way Nate was treating her, Sky repeatedly laid a heavy finger on the doorbell. _Ring. Ring. Ring._ "I know you're in there, Nate! Open the door! We need to talk!"

The front door flung open. Nate stood there with a disgruntled expression on his chocolate, bearded face. Round, beady eyes, salt and peppered hair, flabby stomach, Lord help her if she gave birth to a daughter that looked just like Nate.

Wearing a white cotton shirt and a pair of grey checkered boxers, Nate's brows gathered in the center of his forehead. "What in the hell are you doing here, Sky?"

_You know why I'm here, dummy_. "Is your wife home?"

"No. What--"

"Good." Sky marched past Nate and entered his upscale luxurious home. The home that should be hers. On more than one occasion, Nate had promised her that he was going to divorce his wife, Ashley, and throw her out on her damn head. He'd also promised that the two of them would live in this house together. The same house that he'd often screwed her in whenever Ashley went out of town on business. Now, here he was, trying to avoid her.

As Sky made her way towards Nate's family room, he stomped behind her. "You can't be here today, Sky. Ashley could come home any minute now. The last thing I need is for her to find out about us."

Pissed off beyond measure, Sky folded her arms across her breasts. "Fuck Ashley. I don't care if she finds out about us. Why have you been avoiding me, Nate?"

Nate's eyes darted back and forth. "I'm not avoiding you, Sky. I've been super busy. And--"

"Bullshit, Nate! You've been avoiding me, and we both know why. Because I'm pregnant with your child."

"Shhh!" Nate's finger flew over his full lips.

Sky looked back over her right shoulder, then over her left one. She glanced down the narrow hallway, and then back at Nate. "Are we alone?"

Nate nodded. "Yes."

Sky fisted her hips. "Then why in the hell are you shushing me?"

Nate threw his hands up in the air. "Because this whole pregnancy thing is driving me nuts. You told me you were on birth control pills, Sky." He pointed his finger at her face. "You swore you couldn't get pregnant."

"The birth control pills were making me sick, so I stopped taking them," she lied without hesitation.

"Lord knows, this here situation is a damn mess. I'm a senator. I have a reputation to protect. If someone found out that I was having affair and got you pregnant, my career would be over. How much does an abortion cost?"

Sky gasped. "An abortion? I'm not killing my baby, Nate. I can't believe you would even ask me to do that."

A low grumble resounded inside Nate's throat. "I have children your age, Sky. I'm too old to be starting over. Hell, I'm old enough to be somebody's goddamn granddaddy. I'm just now starting my own life. Ain't no way in hell I'm going to be changing pampers and crap. My taking care of baby days were over a long time ago."

Tears rolled down Sky's eyes. "I can't believe you, Nate. You said you loved me. I guess you lied, huh? All you wanted from me was sex." Sky started bawling.

**NATE'S CHEST TIGHTENED.** His gut roiled. Hating he'd gotten Sky pregnant, pain throbbed at his temples. Now Sky stood in front of him, crying her got damn eyes out. Her shoulders shaking, she covered her face with her hands.

Needing his mistress, Sky, to get the hell out of his house before his wife, Ashley, came home, Nate figured he'd tell her whatever she wanted to hear just so she'd leave. Mad at his own self, Nate wrapped his fingers around Sky's wrists and lowered her hands from her weeping face. Maybe if he gave her an extra five thousand dollars or treated her to a shopping spree, she'd have an abortion.

"Stop crying, Sky," Nate decreed, pulling her into his arms. She laid her head on his chest. Caressing her back, he said, "If you don't want to have an abortion...I understand. I'll be here for you and the baby. I promise to take care of both of you." _I should've kept my dick in my pants._

Sky lifted her head from Nate's chest. "Really?"

Nate nodded. "Yes, really. The first thing you need to do is find a really good doctor and confirm that you're really pregnant. If it turns out that you're really pregnant, I promise, I'll leave Ashley and marry you." It'd be a cold day in hell before he ever left Ashley.

Digging his own grave, a dull ache formed in Nate's chest, then knotted into a tight ball. He felt like he was about to have a heart attack. _I done shitted and stepped all in it. My wife and daughters can never find out I got Sky pregnant. Not ever. How do I get rid of Sky? For good?_

Maybe he could hire someone to kill her, Nate thought, watching Sky's tears dry up. _I could just kill you, Sky. Literally._

"I'll be right back." __ Thinking about having Sky murdered, Nate turned and stalked away. Entering his library, he rubbed a palm over his hurting chest, then got on his knees in front of his safe. He pushed a series of numbers on his safe, and it clicked open.

Lord knows, he'd thought with the wrong head when he'd become involved with that tramp standing in his den. For all knew, the baby may not even be his. Discontented, he reached inside the safe, grabbed a stack of one hundred dollar bills, and then stood. Counting the money, loathe for Sky filled him. The fifteen thousand dollars should keep Sky's mouth shut for a while. At least until he could find someone to knock her off. Dump her body in a river.

Nate returned to the den and handed Sky the money. "What's this for, Nate? I'm not having an abortion."

"The money is for any medical or living expenses that may occur during your pregnancy."

"Oh." Sky smiled. "Thanks."

Nate cupped the balls of her shoulders. _You damn bitch._ He pecked her lips. "I do have just one favor to ask of you, though."

Looking like a conniving whore, Sky sniffed. "Okay. Go ahead and ask."

"I need for you to keep quiet about your pregnancy for a while. Give me some time to think about how I'm going to break the news to Ashley and my daughters."

Sky sucked her teeth. "How much time do you need, Nate?"

"A month or two. Maybe three."

"Three months is a long time, Nate."

"Damn, Sky. The last thing I need in my life is a scandal. I need time to figure out how to go about ending my marriage to Ashley. Can you please at least give me some time to take care of this? So you and I can have the life we've always deserved, and always dreamed of?"

Sky sighed. She placed a hand on his face, and as mad as he was with her, his rod still tingled. "Yes. Nate. I'll give you some time." Sky finally left, and Nate couldn't have been happier. As soon as her car pulled out of the driveway, he started plotting how he would have her murdered.

**SKY DROVE DOWN** the road in Nate's Mercedes, smiling her behind off. Clenching the steering wheel, she cracked up laughing. **** Being pregnant may not be so bad after all.

_Nate thinks I'm a fool. He's playing me, and I know it. His lying behind is not going to ever leave Ashley. As long as he keeps this money rolling in, I don't care what he does with his jacked up self. I done had enough of him anyway, with his beady eyes, fat stomach, small dick self._

Chuckling inwardly at how dumb Nate was, Sky hefted her cell from the console and padded through her contacts. Struggling to keep her eyes on the road while searching for a very important number, her thumb scrolled over the screen of her cell.

There's the number she'd inputted in her cell earlier today _._ Sky thumbed at the number, then placed the cell to her ear. The phone chirped three times in her ear before someone answered. "Piedmont Hospital, how may I direct your call?" the receptionist asked.

"Dr. Thorton's office, please."

"Please hold." The line went silent.

Sky slowed the car as she approached a traffic light. _Boy...if Della found out that I screwed her father and he probably got me pregnant, her behind would roll over and die._

"Good afternoon. Dr. Thorton's office. How may I help you?"

"May I please speak with Dr. Thorton?"

"I'm sorry, but he's not available right now. May I take a message?"

_"_ This is his daughter, Della, calling. Please tell him it's an emergency."

"Please hold."

Soft music played on the phone as Sky waited for Lynwood to answer. Finally, the traffic light turned green and Sky proceeded down the long road, heading back towards campus. _Dang, what's taking Lynwood so long to come to the darn phone?_

"Della, what's going on?" Panic throttled Lynwood's voice.

"Hi, Lynwood. This is Sky. How have you been?"

"Sky? They told me Della was on the phone."

"Yeah. I told them it was Della calling because I really needed to speak with you."

Lynwood's voice pitched as he queried, "Is Della okay? What's wrong?"

"Oh, nothing's wrong. Della's fine." _She's just going to have a little sister or brother, that's all._ Sky continued driving towards campus. "The reason I needed to speak with you has nothing to do with Della. The reason for my call is about me." _And you._

Lynwood released a heavy breath. "Whew! You had me scared for a second."

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you."

"No problem. Why do you need to speak with me?"

"There's no easy way to tell you this, Lynwood, but I'm...umm...well, I'm pregnant."

Silence filled her ears.

A short second later, she heard Lynwood clear his throat. "What are you trying to say, Sky?"

_What the hell do you think I'm saying?_ "What I'm saying is this," Sky swallowed, "I'm pregnant with your child. You're going to be a father again, Lynwood."

"Jesus Christ. No. Are you sure I'm the father?" he asked sharply.

Sky signaled her blinkers and merged into the left lane. "Yes. I'm sure you're the father, Lynwood. I haven't slept with anyone besides you." _And Nate. And Jimmy Harold the night of the party. But Jimmy don't count because I was already pregnant by then._

"You're not thinking about having the baby, are you?"

"Of course I'm having my baby, Lynwood."

"Sky. You and I had a one-night stand. We slept together one time. We don't even know each other."

"It only takes one time to get pregnant."

"I can't have a child with you. I'm married. You and Della are friends, the same age. You're too young to be pregnant. My entire family will hate me," Lynwood rambled on and on like he was losing his mind.

_Stop whining_. "I was hoping you'd be happy about this, Lynwood."

Frustration saturated his tone. "Happy? My family is at stake here. I'm not the least bit happy."

"Well, that's too bad."

"Sky, please don't have the baby. Get an abortion. I'll do anything to protect my family. Just name it."

"Anything?"

"Yes. I'll do anything."

A wicked grin plastered Sky's face. "Okay...how about you give me five hundred thousand dollars?"

"Five hundred thousand dollars?! Have you lost your damn mind?! You listen to me, and you better listen to me good. My wife nor my daughters better find out about this. To keep your mouth shut, this is what I will offer you: assuming the baby is mine, and that's a big if, I'll find out what the standard rate of child support is for someone making my yearly salary, and I'll pay you double that amount in child support."

"How about triple?"

"No. Double and a half, final offer. However, if you breathe one word about your pregnancy to anyone, I will meet your ass in court and pay you much, much less. Do I make myself clear?"

Sky had no idea Lynwood could be so rude. "Okay. I'm going to need some money now for doctor's appointments and living expenses. Get me a nice apartment, and my lips will stay sealed."

"This is blackmail." He sounded brutally angry.

"No. This is fair. Fair, Lynwood. Fair. You were born into wealth. Your family has a lot of money. Probably millions."

"I will be requesting a paternity test before I pay you one dime."

"Believe me, this is your baby, Lynwood. Goodbye." She ended the call.

Laughing, Sky looked down at her purse and tossed her cell inside. Suddenly, a loud horn blasted the air. Her head shot up to find she'd steered the car off the road into the wooded median. Clenching the steering, she slammed on brakes. Tires squealing, the car slammed into the trunk of a burly tree. Sky's head slammed into something hard, and she blacked out.

Moments later, the scent of gasoline wafted up Sky's nose. Head aching, her eyes slowly opened. She turned her gaze towards the driver side window to find a man yanking on the door.

The man's jaws shook violently as he screamed, "Open the car door! The car is about to explode!"

Sky reached down for the handle inside the car and pulled. The door didn't budge. Trapped inside the car, pain stabbed her pregnant belly. Clenching her aching stomach, liquid seeped from her womb. _Oh God, please don't let me miscarry._

"Help! Help me! I'm pregnant!"

"I'm trying to help you! Open the door! Open the door!"

Sky yanked hard on the handle. _Boom!_ A loud explosion engulfed her ears. The car caught fire. Burning orange flames made the temperature inside the car spike. The driver side window shattered, glass flew on Sky's face, cutting into her flesh. Scared out of her mind, she screamed for her life. And for the baby's life growing inside her, too. _Please, don't let my baby die, God. Please._

**THE END**

#

The Baller's Baby

Book Two

London & Camille

Please enjoy the following excerpt from The Baller's Baby-Book Two...

The Baller's Baby

Chapter One

Fire truck sirens resounded throughout the smoke-filled air. Red and blue lights flashed brightly on ambulance transports as they sped along the expressway. Hot orange fire engulfed the wrecked Mercedes that had slammed viciously into the tree.

Panic-stricken, Sky sat inside the burning vehicle, cupping the bottom of her pregnant belly, drenched in sweat. Feeling death closing in on her, a thick trail of blood trickled from her forehead down her sweaty face. If she hadn't been on the phone while driving, she wouldn't be in this predicament, she thought, pushing hard on the jammed car door.

Sounds of crackling fire entered her ears. Inhaling the thick smoke into her lungs, she coughed hoarsely. She yanked harder on the handle of the car door, but it was still unyielding. "I can't get it open," she cried.

Banging her fist on the hot window, Sky screamed, "Help! Help!" _I'm gonna die. God, I promise...if You save me, I'll change, for the better. Just save me, God. Save me._ "Help me!"

_Layers of heavy smoke clouded Sky's vision, and she couldn't see a darn thing. Mortified and struggling to breathe, she clutched her burning throat. Gagging, her eyes rolled._

The sound of a drill churning into the car door punctuated Sky's drums. Suddenly, the door flung open. A tall fireman appeared before her. He reached inside the car, jerked her into his strong arms, and began scurrying away from the burning vehicle.

_Gasping for air, Sky glanced back over the fireman's shoulder. Fire torched the car. Kaboom!_ The Mercedes exploded into big balls of orange fire, shaking the earth _. Oh no. Nate's car blew up. He's gonna be pissed,_ Sky thought, her flesh hotter than molten lava.

_As the fireman lowered Sky to the gurney in the rear of the ambulance, a sharp pain sliced through her belly, then she felt something wet her center. The baby. Oh God, no._ Waves of fear coursed through her system. "I'm pregnant. I think I'm miscarrying," she said, looking into the paramedic's face.

The male respondent stated, "I'm gonna take good care of you." He lowered an oxygen mask over Sky's face. With the assistance of other emergency workers, he lifted the gurney, rolled Sky inside the back of the transport, and slammed the door.

Sky's body rocked from side to side as the emergency vehicle shot down the expressway, rushing her to the hospital. Wondering why this had happened to her, pain rippled in her belly. She glanced into the female paramedic's blue eyes that was monitoring her vitals and inhaled a big bout of oxygen.

The woman paramedic quickly removed Sky's jeans and panties and gave her a serious stare. Gloom filled the lady's eyes. Worried sick about her unborn baby, Sky removed the oxygen mask from her face. "Did I...mis...miscarry?"

Eyes filled with dread, the paramedic's bottom lip folded. Waiting for her to answer, fear rushed through Sky. She couldn't lose the baby. The baby was her meal ticket to financial freedom. Freedom she deserved. Freedom she'd earned the hard way--by having sex with men for money and materialistic things.

As the paramedic parted her mouth to speak, Sky's heart palpitated harshly beneath her breastbone. _Oh no, I miscarried._

ROMANCE LOOMED in the cool December air as London and Camille walked along the campus grounds of Howard University. Heading towards his dorm room, London draped his arm around Camille's shoulder, then gently kissed the top of her head. Madly in love, Camille's heart twirled.

This date had been simply perfect, Camille thought as a smile touched her lips. First, London and she had had lunch. Afterwards, he'd taken her on a historical tour. Lastly, he'd taken her to some place called _The Swann's House,_ where she got a chance to pick rare beautiful flowers. _This was the best date ever,_ she thought, clenching the handle of the wicker basket.

A light breeze sailed through Camille's scalp, brushing her wavy hair across her lips. Scents of sweet roses traveled into her nostrils. Surprised that London didn't try to have sex with her earlier today while at the Swann's House, she felt he was indeed a perfect gentleman. She just knew he was going to try and get her in bed with him. Thank God he didn't, because there was no telling what she would've ended up doing.

"What's on that pretty little mind of yours?" London asked, breaking into her thoughts.

Camille glanced up at London. Taller than six feet, his massive shoulders filled the black, long sleeve shirt he wore. Admiration for her shone in his brown, intelligent eyes. There was an inherent strength in his masculine face.

_He's so fine. I can barely stand it._ Finally, she answered, "Oh. I was just thinking about how much I enjoy being with you."

London's lips drew into a handsome smile, and Camille just about melted. "The feeling is mutual, Shorty." _There he goes calling me 'Shorty' again_. London pulled open the door to his dormitory building, stepped to the side, and gestured for Camille to enter first.

London waved at the guys sitting behind the resident mentor's desk. Coming to a stop in front of a closed door, he pulled a key card from his wallet, held it over the keypad, and the secured door clicked open. Mounting the staircase to the third floor behind London, Camille heard her cell phone buzz inside her purse. _I'll get that later._

Reaching London's dorm room, Camille became excited. She'd never been inside London's dorm room before and couldn't wait to see what it looked like. Grasping the doorknob, he pushed open the door and led her inside.

With a small bed against the wall to the right and another small bed to the left, Bison posters covered the walls. A small desk sat centered in front of the window, and a tiny shared bathroom sat between London's dorm room and the adjoining room next door.

London kicked off his sneakers, plopped down on his bed. "Ahhh. What a long day."

Camille lowered the wicker basket filled with assorted flowers to the desk by the window. "What a memorable day."

London spread his legs wide on the navy comforter. "Kick off your shoes and come let me hold you," he said throatily. When he patted the empty space between his legs, she couldn't help noticing the thick bulge pressing against his zipper. The size of him nearly frightened her. If he looked like that soft, there was no telling what he looked like when he got an erection.

_Camille climbed on the bed between London's legs. With her back pressed against the hard muscles of his chest, tingles spread through her body. Putting his mouth close to her ear, he held her tenderly and whispered, "I want you to spend the night with me, Camille."_

Spend the night with him? _Oh, Jesus_. How does she tell him she's not ready for sex and that she's a virgin? And that she didn't ever plan on having sex until she got married?

Not bothering to look back at London, Camille nibbled on her bottom lip and pondered. "Umm. I'm a--umm. I'm--"

"Mines." London grabbed the balls of Camille's shoulders, shifted her sideways in his lap, and slipped his tongue inside her mouth. London's firm lips moved hungrily against Camille's as he feasted on her mouth like there was no tomorrow. Like this would be the very last kiss they shared.

London wrapped his tongue around Camille's and suckled it tenderly. When he groaned hoarsely, she felt his shaft harden against her lower spine. _His erection feels so gigantic on me._

Grinding his sheathed tool against her clothed rear, London slid his hand beneath Camille's shirt. He caressed her abdomen with his soothing fingertips, then slid his palm over the satin material of her bra and squeezed her breast. Her nipples tingled. A low moan eased from her pursed lips into his mouth.

A dull ache formed in Camille's damp center. Latching onto her tongue, London pinched her nipple, then flicked the hard substance. Weakening her defenses, he undid the button of her jeans, lowered her zipper, then slid his hand inside her panties.

As his big hand worked its way towards her sex, Camille's heart beat rapidly. Her breathing labored. Feeling as if she was floating in the air on a white cloud, she became extremely aroused. _God, give me the strength to stop him before --_

_Still mating with her mouth, London's palm groped at Camille's wet sex. Tensing, her labia fluttered. Oh, this felt incredible. He stroked the pad of his thumb against her clitoris, and she'd had no clue such an act could feel so good coming from a man's finger._

Wishing she could ward off the sensual feelings brewing up inside her, Camille rocked her pelvis. _Okay, I'm gonna stop in a few minutes...right after he flicks my clit three more times...one, two, thr --_

_London slipped a finger inside her slick heat and twirled. Oh yes!_ Then he inserted another finger in her channel. Aroused to the point of no return, Camille fought hard to clamp her thighs shut around his probing hand. London's fingers stilled inside her slippery entrance, she tore her mouth from his.

Breathing erratically and looking down at her, London asked, "What's wrong? Why did you stop?"

Camille curled her fingers around London's wrist and guided his hand from the inside of her panties. Placing her hand over her heart, she sat upright. "I'm so sorry for misleading you, but I'm not ready to have sex with you. I'm a...still a...I'm a virgin." Her gaze dropped from his face to her lap.

London clenched Camille's chin, forcing her to look upwards at him. With a serious expression on his face, his firm lips set in a straight line. "Camille, just because I asked you to spend the night with me, doesn't mean I want to have sex with you. I mean, I do, but not in here. Not inside my dorm room. A room I share with Jimmy. When I make love to you, it'll be somewhere nice. Like a nice hotel room."

Somewhat relieved, Camille swallowed. "So you're not mad at me?"

London shook his head. "Of course not. You're very special to me. Don't ever feel pressured to have sex with me, Camille. I can wait for however long it takes."

She sighed. "To be honest with you, I don't plan to have sex until I get married."

London reached up to cup Camille's face. Rubbing the pad of his thumb across the mole on her lip, a look of love appeared in his eyes. "I respect that. I guess I'll just have to marry you quick, then."

Camille laughed. "Stop playing."

Still caressing the mole with the pad of his thumb, a look of sincerity was on London's face. "I'm not playing, Camille. Right now...right here, at this very moment, I feel very drawn to you. I've felt this way since we first met. Like I don't ever want to let you go."

Relentless enjoyment flooded her. "I feel the same way about you. Like we have a connection I can't explain."

"What we're feeling doesn't need an explanation." He grabbed her in his arms and then cradled her to his ripped chest. "All we need to know is that it feels good."

She nodded. "Yeah. You're right."

London chuckled.

"What's so funny?" she asked as he released her.

"I guess since we won't be making love till we get married, I better lick your juices from my fingers while I can." He slid the fingers he'd pumped her sex with into his mouth and sucked them. "Damn, you taste good."

Camille playfully hit his hand. "You're too funny!" she said, her voice pitched. Her cell phone buzzed again. "Dang, somebody keeps blowing me up." She eased off the bed, walked over to the desk, and reached inside her purse for her phone.

Spying the Caller ID, she noticed it was Sky calling. Hopefully, everything was okay with _Ms. Drama Queen._ She placed the phone to her ear. "Hey, Sky."

"I've been trying to call you all day. I've been in a car accident. I'm so scared, Camille." Her words rushed together.

Camille's heart dropped. "A car accident? What hospital are you in?"

"George Washington University."

"I'm on my way!"

The next book in **The Babies & Beaus Series** is out now!

Click the link below to read The Baller's Baby, Book Two.

The Baller's Baby Book Two

# COMPLETE SABRINA SIMS MCAFEE BOOKLIST

The following titles are also available in electronic format.

AMAZON:

The Brides of Hilton Head Series

MARRYING THE MARINE

MARRYING THE MILLIONAIRE

MARRYING MR. RIGHT

MARRYING MR. WRONG

MARRYING the SECOND TIME AROUND

Stand Alones:

SINFUL SEDUCTION

THE PROPOSAL

WANTED

BEDDING THE BOSS

LOVNG HER FOREVER

THE BALLER'S BABY

BARNES AND NOBLE:

The Brides of Hilton Head Island Series

MARRYING THE MARINE

MARRYING THE MILLIONAIRE

MARRYING MR. RIGHT

MARRYING MR. WRONG

Stand Alones:

SINFUL SEDUCTION

WANTED

THE PROPOSAL

THE BALLER'S BABY

# From the Desk of Sabrina Sims McAfee

**A Writer at Heart**

**Visit me at my website:**

**www.sabrinasimsmcafee.com**

Dear Readers,

Thanks a million for reading The Baller's Baby-Book One. I hope you enjoyed reading the short book just as much as I enjoyed writing it. Reviews, comments, and likes are greatly appreciated. Favorable reviews greatly help authors, so thank you.

Fondly,

Sabrina

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# About the Author

Sabrina Sims McAfee is your writer of women's fiction, romantic suspense, and contemporary romance. She loves writing about strong men, sexy, strong women, and the adventurous journeys they travel. In her leisure time, she likes spending time with her family, reading, traveling, and songwriting.

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