Truth of Touch (Templer Series) Read online

  He pulls free for a moment, returning to nibble at my neck. “Why can’t I break free of you.....you haunt me, Mia” He curses still licking and suckling every inch of flesh he can find.

  I arch into him, needing to feel my body pressed against him. I moan, biting at his jawline, tasting him. What am I doing? We will never work…..

  “JAKE! STOP” I struggle out of his arms. I shake my head, turning away. He’s a player……and so am I.......why is he messing with me? I find myself hurrying away from his grasp, snatching up my camera, running for the door. Oh, fuck, I want him……my heart is pulling me apart…….what is happening to me?

  ***

  Jake scrapes a hand across his jaw, letting out a deep sigh. Of all the women to latch onto his heart, to crawl under his skin, it had to be this one. He quietly shakes his head, a small laugh catching in his throat. Jake the player has been caught……hook, line and sinker in love…..and he didn’t even see it coming……

  Chapter Eight

  I throw another shot of vodka down my throat, feeling the burn, waiting for the rush. The club is heaving with beautiful people and the latest z list celebrities from some reality show on Channel 4. I want to get fucked, both with alcohol and a willing male body….but there is no-one interesting in here. No-one like Jake……

  I have batted away a couple of hopefuls and a Premier League footballer. And I can’t be bothered to hit the dance floor. Jonathon, the stylist and best gay friend ever is raising an eyebrow in my direction.

  “What?” I mumble at him, almost inaudible over the thumping beat of the music.

  “Why the slapped ass face, sweetness?”

  “No reason….just bored” I throw a lie, hoping he will catch it. He doesn’t.

  “Really? Really? Not a man then?”

  “Fuck off, Jonny…..” My rant is interrupted by the flashing light on my mobile. It’s Drew. I snatch it up, grateful for the excuse not to continue this conversation.

  ***

  “Hey! You’ll have to shout…..I’m in a club….you ok?”

  “We’re great. I need a favour. Fuck, can you hear me?” His deep voice bellows down the phone.

  “Hang on. Let me run outside….I was about to leave anyway….all crap in here” I wave my goodbye at Jonny and head for the exit. The cool air hits my face, sending the alcohol straight to my legs, causing a momentary wobble. Luckily the paparazzi are camped out at the other entrance. “Shit! Ok…..I can hear you! What’s up?”

  “I want to surprise Tilly……next weekend….and I need your help”

  “Sure. What kind of surprise?”

  “Mia….I want to ask Tilly to marry me. It’s a surprise engagement party”

  “Oh my God!” I let out the loudest squeal. “I’m so happy for you…..for you both…..Oh my God! But how can I help? What do you want me to do?” My heart is flipping in my chest. This is the best news….my mood instantly lifting.

  “Well, it’s a bit difficult. I heard that you’re not speaking to Jake…..he upset you I think? I wanted you guys to plan it, you know, the works…..at my place…..that way she won’t suspect a thing because I will be acting as normal all week….well, trying to” I can hear the sheer joy and excitement in his voice.

  “Oh you mean when he ruined my photo shoot? Bet he didn’t tell you that!”

  “Shit, I’m sorry, Mia. No, he didn’t tell me. I’ll understand if you can’t help…..but you will still be at the party, won’t you? I want you there, obviously.” Drew has genuine concern in his voice.

  “Water off a duck’s back” I lie blatantly. “Of course, I’ll help. Jake has my number. We’ll sort it….and yes, I’ll be there.”

  ***

  Tuesday

  A text alert pings on my mobile. It is Jake.

  Jake: Hey. Sorry about the photography assignment thing. Still mad at me? x

  Me: Yes, I am. Let’s concentrate on the party planning.

  Jake: No kiss at the end of the text. You are pissed. I’m sorry. Honest x

  Me: No kisses. Ever. So what about the party? I can do the DJ and decorations. You can do catering and invites. Ok?

  Jake: Ok. What sort of food? I’m crap at this x

  Me: You are an asshole, do you know that? I’ll sort the catering as well then!

  Jake: You’re a star and you know you are! x

  Me: One of us has to be x

  Jake: You just sent me a kiss x

  Me: My hand slipped

  Jake: I think you meant to send it x

  Me: Fuck off Jake

  Jake: xxxx

  I throw my mobile on the coffee table. The man is infuriating. And playful. And dangerous. I shrug off the stupid silly fucking warm feeling and haul my laptop onto my lap. Let’s start planning a party! Now this I can do. Warm and fuzzy and love……I can’t. It’s scary. And people get hurt.

  ***

  Thursday

  Time to update Jake on the party plans. I sent a text.

  Me: I have the DJ arriving at 6. The decorators and caterer will be there at 3. I will arrive around 2 and take Tilly out to the Spa for a few hours. We’ll also get hair and make-up done. I’ve already told her that I’m bringing her a new dress. She thinks we’re going out to dinner. Think you can handle all that information?

  Jake: My male brain can just about manage that. You’re sexy when you’re feisty x

  Me: Stop flirting with me. Have you sent the invites?

  Jake: Sent? I just rang people x

  Me: No proper party invites….as in card and envelope? You’re an idiot.

  Jake: But I’m a nice idiot x

  Me: Sometimes. But mostly just an idiot x

  Jake: You just sent me a kiss again! Now you are flirting with me x

  Me: Fuck off Jake. See you Saturday

  Jake: ;-) x

  ***

  I head out the door, credit cards at the ready. Let’s shop for a dress or two. And maybe some shoes. And…..let’s ring Jonny!

  An hour later, we are sat perched high on the barstools in The Wonder Bar at Selfridges. Tucking into Hederman smoked salmon and soda bread, we are ‘testing’ the 125ml shots of exclusive wines from the Enomatic system built into the back wall directly facing us.

  “This isn’t getting any shopping done, Jonny” I raise another shot up to my lips, eyeing him with a smirk.

  “Huh!” He pouts playfully. “You know I’ll fetch you whatever you need tomorrow, sweetness” He signals to the barman for another round of drinks. I love this man……

  “Well, I need something knock-out for Tilly. And shoes. And grab something for me. Actually fetch something for Amber, too…..she’s about an eight, maybe a ten. Tall like me. I’d like to get her a present. She’s a doll.” I reel out my order.

  “Jesus…..what did your last slave die of?” Another playful pout plays on Jonny’s lips.

  “Not doing what they were told! Of course! And I assume you’re coming with me….to the party? As my plus one?” I side glance him, waiting for the inevitable squeal of delight.

  “Oh, sweetness! You really want me to go? Really?” He claps his hands in delight, squealing high pitched, planting a wet kiss on my cheek.

  “Oh, Drew and Jake are going to love you!” I throw my head back in laughter…..I can’t wait.

  Chapter Nine

  The masseuse is kneading me into heaven. Ocean Breeze Spa has become a favourite little haunt since Tilly moved to Cornwall. Jonny is immersed in all the luxury treatments. He is so fun to be around that I have lost all my anxiety about being in Jake’s company for the whole of the evening ahead. Tilly seems oblivious, honestly thinking that this is just a girly day. Although she still keeps asking why we are having our hair and make-up, and getting dressed here, rather than back at the house.

  “Stop asking. It’s a surprise for Drew! Don’t want you guys getting stale do we?” I laugh at her, throwing a wink to Jonny.

  “As if….the man won’t leave me alone! I’ve never has so much
sex…..and I’m not complaining!” Tilly laughs, love written all over her face.

  “Too much information! You’re getting me jealous!” I mock pout at her.

  “You! Jealous! You have men falling at your feet! I bet you had sex in the last couple of days! Probably with some hot male model” She raises an eyebrow.

  “Actually……she hasn’t! No-one compares to J……” Jonny blurts out excitedly.

  “SHUT UP JONNY!” I growl at him, eyes wide in panic. “Go back to sleep….or you’ll be sent home!”

  Tilly sits bolt upright, ignoring that her bare breasts are exposed. “There is gossip! I know there is…..spill, Mia Fox!”

  I turn my head away, sighing into the pillow. “There is nothing to tell. And your tits are on display by the way”

  ***

  The house is lit up like a Christmas tree by the time we pull up outside the house. Ok, maybe I went a little over the top with the brief for the decorators. Tilly throws me a puzzled look. I shrug it off, nudging Jonny hard in the ribcage as I can feel him ready to implode with excitement. He throws me a scowl, and I return with a Supermodel kiss. Works every time. There is a heady thumping beat of music resonating from the house. For a moment, Tilly seems anxious.

  “I don’t understand. I thought we were going to dinner?” She searches my face…..as if I would know what is happening.

  “Search me. Let’s get inside.” I pull her towards the door halting any further inquisition.

  ***

  “SURPRISE!” Echoes of laughter and heightened excitement radiate from the crowd of familiar faces as we enter the house. Drew is stood, quietly smiling, looking tall and very handsome, and slowly parts a path through the throng of people towards Tilly. He pulls her into his arms, stroking a finger down her shocked face.

  “I don’t understand, Drew. Are we having a party…..not going to dinner?” She peeks at him shyly, aware of the attention focussed on her.

  “Well…..yes, it’s a party. Just for you.” Drew bends to plant a chaste kiss on her lips, the crowds sighing and awing in the moment. I feel a lump of emotion building tight in my throat. I reach out and squeeze hard on Jonny’s hand.

  “For me? Why?” She still seeks assurance, puzzled by the attention.

  “Well…….can we kill the music, please?” Drew nods to the DJ. “Because of this….” Bending his body gracefully, he plumps down onto one knee. Tilly clasps a hand over her mouth, her eyes darting from my face and back to her lover, now reaching out to take her hand. A small red box is balanced on the palm of his other hand.

  ***

  I’m so caught in the moment, gentle small sobs of emotion catching in each breath, I’m not aware of an arm slowly reaching around my waist. Dear Jonny, sweet Jonny…..

  “Tilly Teague…I love you with every breath I take. I can’t imagine another day unless it is by your side, waking up with you every morning, and falling asleep with you every night. You took my heart the day I met you and you will hold it until I die. Will you marry me?” Drew manages to voice the words although his eyes are wet with emotion, his hand shaking in nerves.

  I grip the arm holding me tight around the waist. Tears spring into my eyes, spilling onto my cheeks, my body trembling with emotion.

  Amber is shrieking, jumping up and down on the spot.

  Tilly falls to the floor, hugging Drew will all her heart. “Yes! I love you. Yes!” I release a laugh as they embrace passionately oblivious to the masses of watching eyes, and cries of cheers.

  ***

  I turn my head and body into the trunk of the person holding me, small weeps breaking through my trembling body. Suddenly, I’m aware of his scent….his feel…..this is not Jonny. Jake holds me tighter, lifting my teary face to his. He gently kisses my forehead.

  “That will be you next, Mia Fox”

  I shake myself from his grip, tears still stinging at my eyes. I defiantly front up to him. “No, it won’t” My lips trembling. “I won’t ever have that…..I can’t…….no happy ending for me……please, JAKE…..leave me alone…..” I gulp back another tear and run towards Tilly, clutching her tight. This is her moment.

  ***

  Jake can feel the wrench in his heart as he watches her run away. What the fuck did she mean? No happy ending? And she did run. Not just from me, he suddenly realises. She ran from her own vulnerability. He can feel the tightness again in his chest. And just as suddenly, he knows he is no longer a player…..but a man……..needing to protect her

  ***

  “Drew?” Tilly smoulders, batting her eyelashes at her new fiancé. The night is closing in….party people filtering out. Tilly is wrapped in Drew’s lap, savouring this moment, this night.

  “Yes, baby. I know that look, Tilly Teague!” He throws a playful smile, before burrowing his face in the warmth of her neck, his favourite place, apart from there.

  “You know what Mia means to me. Yes?” Cute champagne infused slurry words.

  “Huh, yeah. She’s number two on the list…..after me, right?” Drew playfully sends her a slightly drunken questioning smirk. She scuffs the back of his head, before planting yet another kiss on his now swollen lips.

  “Can you give her a photo commission? Please…….for me? It will make me really happy……and very grateful”

  He raises an eyebrow, reaching a hand to cup her breast. Finding her nipple eagerly hard and sensitive to his touch, he lays his head back against the chair, a groan escaping from his throat, his cock twitching in need of her.

  “How happy, baby?” He moans.

  “Very, very happy” As she unzips him, freeing his hardening cock, bending forward to take him in her mouth.

  Chapter Ten

  The board room of Templer Industries is not what you would expect to find in light of the knowledge that this century old family run organisation has risen to become the market leader in advanced 3D and 4D design technologies within the field of building and construction. There is no shiny topped veneer table surrounded by designer sprung chairs, with floor to ceiling glass walls and artificial lighting.

  Instead, Drew and Jake are sat with colleagues around a hand crafted oak hexagon table built by the calloused hands of their great grandfather, Samuel Templer. The leather chairs in which each of them is sat display the scuffs and scrapes and mouldings of many a hard working bottom to grace the seat. The room has the look and comforting smell of age.

  The group of colleagues are reviewing the work schedules and project plans of current and forthcoming contracts. One of the agenda items in today’s meeting is the risk assessment of a new contract to build the first and only Hotel complex on the Pitcairn Islands, Britain’s last remaining outpost in the Pacific Ocean. It will be an emotive build owing to the history of the local accommodation providers, who take visitors on a rota system, offering comfort and home cooked inclusion into their homes or rental of locally owned chalets. Drew, Jake and the team are fully aware that this opportunity must be handled with great sensitivity requiring the cooperation and backing of the local residents.

  Jake is due to head a team of engineers to travel to the Islands next week to meet with the residents. Dave Bennett is especially excited to be part of the team going but for very different reasons.

  ***

  “Mia Fox is going with us? I’ll volunteer to take her around the site….and anywhere else she wants me to take her!” He laughs through a sleazy smile.

  Jake can feel the tension pulling at the muscles in his neck. He struggles to contain a scowl. “She’s there to take photographs, not to fucking entertain you!”

  Drew sighs deeply. Dave Bennett may have been headhunted for his impressive resume but that didn’t mean he had to personally like the man. And he doesn’t. He leans aggressively across to focus his direction in Dave’s sweaty face. “She is a talented photographer who also happens to be the best friend of my fiancé. I will not tolerate any undue attention or approaches made to her. Jake will be escorting her if she needs escor
ting anywhere. She is there on a commission to work, not as a piece of fucking eye candy for the engineers!”

  “No harm in looking though….can’t blame a guy for that!” Dave retorts, embarrassment flushing his cheeks, wiping a chubby hand across his brow.

  “Just fucking drop it, Dave!” Jake scowls at him, his shoulders tight in knots. I’m going to have to watch this fucker……..

  ***

  Excitement and anxiety filled me when I got the call from Drew. I’m sure Tilly had a hand in the decision to give me this commission but either way, I’m grateful and delighted. This is a serious piece of work working for an international organisation. I will be in the Pitcairn Islands photographing the proposed site of an exclusive development. It will require me to use my imagination to visualise a construction that is not there yet, and try to see how it will sympathetically fit into the landscape. This is not shooting hot male models!

  “Thank you, Drew. I’m really grateful for this opportunity. But are you sure I’m up for the job? Wouldn’t you have preferred a technical photographer?” I’m not trying to talk myself out of work, but I have to remain realistic. I don’t want to fuck this up.

  “No, Mia…that’s exactly why I want you for the project. I think you will really care about what you are shooting, and the feelings of the people around you. I know you are anxious about taking this one, and it is that anxiety that I’m counting on to get the best results. Do you understand?”

  I did. “Yes, I get it, Drew. And thanks. I hope I won’t let you down”

  Chapter Eleven

  We are all exhausted and Jet lagged by the time we arrive on the Island. There is no airstrip so we have arrived after boarding a charter vessel at Mangavera in the Gambier Islands, some 330 miles away from Pitcairn. We have been travelling for nearly two days – London to Papeete via Los Angeles, then Papeete to Mangavera – and despite the luxury of First Class, we are all dead on our feet.