Seduced: Part 1 Page 3

  I was going to enjoy unwrapping the many layers of this man. Brandon versus Phil. Not the same at all. Not even close.

  “Did you know that each Aston Martin is hand built in England?” he asked.

  I didn't, but that wasn't the point. Again, cute that he would think that I had any idea.

  “They are individually inspected at the factory,” he continued. “The engine block has the inspector's name stamped on it.”

  “That's interesting. How long does it take to build each car?”

  His nose scrunched and forehead wrinkled. I was seeing a whole other side of 'Mr. Sexy CEO.' Still sooo sexy. Also, totally adorable.

  “I don't know,” he admitted. “That's an excellent question.”

  He was beaming. I'd love to probe that mouth, I thought.

  “Well, I appreciate the time they took. It is quite an exhilarating ride,” I said in my sexiest voice.

  I shifted my eyes to see if it registered with Brandon. He shifted in his seat. I think so.

  “Ms. Sullivan, you are an amazing woman.”

  I settled back further into my seat and stretched out my legs. I appreciated the soft and smooth leather of the seat. It felt nice against the skin on the backs of my legs.

  Brandon shifted his eyes from the road to me. He was discrete, but he was totally checking me out. His gorgeous baby blues moved up from my legs to my breasts. The lace bra was doing its job pushing them up.

  I thought about how the bra contained my large, sensitive nipples. I could only imagine how Brandon could get me going. I was positive that he could expertly tease them with his mouth.

  Brandon's tall athletic frame looked completely at ease behind the wheel. The driver's seat cradled his muscular thighs. What I wouldn't give to be that seat right now.

  I wanted him more than I thought was possible. Yes, there was an attraction to his image in magazines and on television. Yes, I had innocent fantasies about him before we ever met. And, yes, the idea of being on an actual date with him, even if it included a business component, was thrilling beyond words.

  But there was so much more going on for me. I meant what I told Chelsea. My desire for Brandon was a longing that I had never felt before. My sex ached for him.

  Ashley, get a grip. I knew that I could enjoy this date to the fullest, but I also had to remember that it was my opportunity to land my dream job. I needed to at least get through dinner being able to hold a coherent conversation.

  I needed to somehow distract myself from thinking about Brandon in a sexual way. This was going to test my mental strength. It was going to require a monumental feat of will power.

  Dead pu . . . no, way to depressing . . nails on a chalkboard . . .no . . . think. . .think . . .

  Got it!

  “So, which one of the Three Stooges is your favorite?” I asked.

  Brandon's face indicated that I had once again tapped into his inner boy. Mission accomplished. For now.

  Chapter 5

  Francesca's was exquisite with an elegant and romantic atmosphere. I was gob-struck by the large chandelier that hung in the center of the restaurant. Impressive works of fine art adorned the walls. The sight was only matched by the wonderful aromas that filled the air from its signature dishes.

  Francesca's was a Michelin three-star restaurant located on the property of the Lusso Beach Resort & Spa. Lusso was a five-star resort on the Santa Barbara waterfront. Francesca's and Lusso epitomized the “American Riviera” vibe often identified with Santa Barbara. I could only dream of being able to afford a meal at the restaurant. A night's stay at the resort was even further beyond my budget.

  Brandon took my hand as the hostess led us to a table with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. The table was romantic with fresh cut flowers and candle light. I didn't know if this type of experience was in my future or not. I was taking it all in – carpe diem.

  The waiter came and took our drink order. Brandon and I discussed what looked especially good on the menu. We ordered when our waiter came back with our drinks. I was taking in the view of the ocean.

  Brandon spoke after the waiter left. “I think this is one of the most spectacular views in Santa Barbara.”

  “I agree. Thank you for taking me to dinner here this evening.”

  “It is my pleasure. I hope you like the food.”

  “Are you kidding? I've always wanted to eat here. I'm pretty sure it is going to be the best meal that I have ever had in my life.”

  “Well, I want this night to be memorable for you.”

  “It already it is,” I said.

  “Don't you just love the way the ocean looks when it is so calm and peaceful?” Brandon asked.

  “Yes. The way it reflects the moonlight. It has a magical quality to it,” I replied as I gazed back out over the Pacific through the window.

  “Magical is just the word I was thinking of to describe you,” Brandon said as he took my hand in his.

  My sexual desire was immediately aroused again. A simple touch from Brandon had the unique ability to awaken my desires. I almost whimpered at his touch.

  I turned to look at him. The reflection of candlelight danced in his eyes. Oh, those dreamy blue eyes!

  He leaned forward. “Ashley, you look radiant and I'm finding it hard to concentrate on anything but you. In an intimate way, I mean. I invited you to dinner this evening so that we could get to know one another on a personal level. Nonetheless, I also promised to explain my professional intentions.”

  “Why don't we get business out of the way so we can enjoy the rest of our evening,” he continued as he gave my hand a light squeeze and then let go.

  “Okay. I have to admit that I have been more than a little curious, and a bit anxious, after what you said last night,” I replied.

  “Well, I understand your curiosity. But, let me assure you, there is nothing to be anxious about. This will be the easiest job interview you are likely to ever have. It's not even an interview. It is more my opportunity to explain my offer,” Brandon said as he sat back, like I imagined he did in so many business meetings. He thought for a moment and then spoke again.

  “I'm sure that your offer from Adele is quite adequate for someone just out of college. But I'm positive that any offer from Jacqueline will surpass it. It will also provide greater opportunity in the long run. Nonetheless, what I have in mind is even better than that.”

  Just then the waiter approached out table.

  “Dinner will be out in just a few minutes. May I refresh your drinks for you?” asked the waiter as he presented the bottle of wine.

  “Yes, please,” Brandon replied.

  The waiter refilled our glasses.

  “May I get you anything else?” he asked after pouring the wine.

  “No, thank you,” Brandon said.

  The waiter departed.

  Brandon picked up with his train of thought from before the waiter had stopped by our table.

  “I mentioned last night how impressed I was with your job application. When I read it, I knew that it would be a waste of your talents to hire you into an entry-level position. There are many excellent candidates that can fill those jobs. But the position that I have in mind requires an exceptional candidate. I am convinced that exceptional candidate is you, Ashley.”

  “Thank you. But, I . . . I don't know if I would consider myself exceptional,” I replied.

  “That may be your only weakness,” Brandon said. “You underestimate yourself. Granted, there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. I'm sometimes accused of the latter. But, it is essential that an employee at Jacqueline always be confident. I especially expect that of those who work with me.”

  At that point I wasn't quite sure where Brandon was going with this. I think that he sensed that I was getting a bit uneasy. He seemed masterful at reading people. No doubt a key trait that fueled his success.

  “Don't worry, Ashley. You are amazing. I wish I only had one weakness, and one so minor as yours
,” he said to reassure me.

  “Now who is underestimating themselves?” I said trying to keep it light enough so I could control my nerves.

  “Touché. Look, I just want you to know that you should not hold back. You have immense talent and instincts that will serve you, me, and Jacqueline well. Projecting a little more confidence and assertiveness will carry you, and us, a long way.”

  “Okay. Noted. Be more confident and assertive,” I said.

  I decided to put it to the test.

  “Now, if you don't mind, I've been dying to know what sort of position you have in mind.”

  “There you go,” Brandon said with a warm chuckle.

  “Well, Mr. Mitchell . . . ,” I said as I reached for my glass and took a sip of wine.

  “I think I could get use to the confident and assertive Ashley Sullivan. Okay, I won't keep you in suspense any longer. I had decided a few months ago that we needed to step up our game with digital social media. My grandmother built the magazine, but I am charged with keeping it edgy and relevant in the 21st century,” he said.

  “And you lack any significant digital social media presence,” I offered. Of course that was no epiphany. It was clear to everyone that Jacqueline only had the most basic website and social media pages.

  “Exactly. I have taken steps to remedy that. We have hired a new web development company and plan to add a social media team. We will curate our print material online to deliver digital editions. We will also offer new, interactive online content. What I have been lacking is someone who can head the efforts. That is, until I learned of you.”

  I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Well, I completely got what Brandon wanted to do. From a media perspective, I couldn't agree more. I was still in a bit of shock that he seemed to be indicating that the position he had in mind for me was heading a major department at the magazine.

  “So . . . am I –?”

  “Yes, Ashley. I am offering you the job.”

  “I'm flattered. I am, but Brandon – ”

  “But, nothing. Ashley, I saw the case study you designed for just this type of situation. It ran circles around any proposal I received from so called “experts” with years more experience than you have. I know a perfect match when I see it. This is a perfect fit for you,” Brandon stated.

  “It's a big job. I, I just don't – ” I stammered.

  “Alright, what happened to confident and assertive Ashley? Please send her back. Yes, it's a big job. But you can do it.”

  “I appreciate that you think that about me,” I said.

  “I don't think it. I know it. Besides, I also need someone with your media savvy who I would be happy to spend a lot of my time with. The position also requires establishing and managing my personal social media accounts. In many ways I am becoming the face of Jacqueline. I need to be more engaged to keep our readers more engaged.”

  “That is a trend with a lot of CEO’s. Especially in the fashion and media industries,” I said.

  “True. See, you have your pulse on what's needed right now. That is worth its weight in gold. Believe me. And speaking of monetary value, I have neglected to tell you the compensation package . . .”

  Brandon told me the salary. I was certain that my jaw hit the table and that my tongue was hanging out. I couldn't believe it. I figured it would take me many years to even come close to what he told me I would make my first year.

  “Plus,” he continued, “you will have a full benefits package. It includes health, dental, vision, a matching 401k plan, and a month of vacation. I'm also including a generous expense account to cover outfits and entertaining. We are in the fashion business, after all. We need to dress to impress and throw lavish parties every now and then.”

  “Brandon, that is more than generous. I . . . I don't know what to say.”

  “Say that you will take the job.”

  “Yes! Of course, yes! I will take the job!”

  I was on cloud nine about the job. It was beyond my widest dreams. But then, I remembered it was merely a pre-cursor to an actual date with this man. Brandon had a look of bemusement and, well . . . I'd say a bit smitten. Smitten in a smoldering hot way.

  “We'll work out the details tomorrow. The rest of tonight is about us,” he said taking my hand once again. He gazed into my eyes and my heart skipped a beat.

  “Ashley, I find you intoxicating. I want to discover what there may be for us beyond a work relationship. I want us to explore each other . . . completely.”

  His voice was sexy and smooth. The temperature in the room seemed to rise by a hundred degrees. The waiter arrived with our meals. We enjoyed more casual conversation while we ate. We shared stories about our childhood.

  Brandon grew up in Manhattan but spent a significant amount of time in Santa Barbara, where his mother's family was from. He had also attended the finest boarding schools and traveled the world. He displayed business smarts at a young age and knew that he wanted to head the company one day. That came sooner than expected when his father decided to take an early retirement.

  I shared how different my childhood was growing up in a small town outside of Austin. I expressed how happy my childhood was. I had also been fascinated by fashion and media. I had an eye for style and proved to be an excellent writer.

  When I discovered the Fashion Media degree at Santa Barbara University, I knew that is where I wanted to attend college. I received funding from the Davenport School of the Arts scholarship fund and that made my dream a reality. Now, I was poised for a dream job at Jacqueline.

  As we finished dinner and the waiter cleared the table we peeked at the dessert menu.

  “I really shouldn't. I need to watch my girlish figure,” I said.

  Brandon looked at me over the menu and said, “I don't think you have anything to worry about.”

  “You say that, but do you know how hard it is to work off the calories of one of these desserts?”

  “You'll just need to get plenty of exercise later,” he said with a devilish grin.

  “Really? What did you have in mind?”

  “A few laps around the resort should do the trick.” Then he lowered the menu to see my reaction.

  “Lucky you are so damn handsome,” I finally said.

  We decided on splitting a dessert. I was glad we went for dessert because it was out of this world. I was also glad that we split it. I didn't want to have to cut myself out of the dress.

  “Dinner was wonderful. Thank you,” I said as we got up from the table after Brandon paid the check. We crossed the restaurant arm-in-arm and I couldn't have been happier with the evening.

  “I'd hate for our evening to end so soon. Would you like to come up to my suite for an after dinner drink?” asked Brandon as we exited the restaurant.

  “I'd love that.”

  “It's such a beautiful night. Is it okay with you if we walk to my room? It's not that far,” said Brandon.

  “That would be nice. Can burn off a few of those calories,” I replied.

  “Great. Although, let's take a leisurely stroll. I wouldn't want to exert too much energy. We may need it later.”

  Brandon gave me a peck on the cheek and I was over the moon.

  “Oh? Planning for a late night swim?” I joked.

  “I didn't bring my swim suit on this trip.” Brandon was goading.

  There was no doubt that I was infatuated with this man. I had fantasized about him and now was on a date with him. A date that was getting more serious by the minute. I was, to my relief, feeling more comfortable with him. I felt as though I could let loose a little.

  “I hear skinny dipping can be quite thrilling,” I said squeezing his arm. I could feel how solid his biceps were. How safe I would feel in his arms.

  “There are also other activities done naked that can be quite thrilling.”

  I may have been feeling more comfortable with Brandon, but the thought of him naked was sending signals of sexual want straight to my sex. A wet spot wa
s already forming in my panties.

  Brandon motioned for the valet. He handed him his ticket and a generous tip.

  “Please move my car to the resort lot. We won't be leaving just yet,” he instructed the valet.

  “Yes, sir, Mr. Mitchell,” said the valet.

  “I hope you won't be in any rush to leave,” Brandon whispered to me.

  He moved his arm around my shoulders and I leaned into him as we walked along a path from Francesca's to Lusso. The stars were shining bright in the California night sky and the waves of the Pacific gently lapped the shore. After about five minutes we arrived at Lusso and took an elevator to Brandon's room.

  Chapter 6

  “I think 'room' was an understatement,” I said in awe as we entered the suite.

  I guessed it had to be about 2,000 square feet inside. There was a living room, dining area for eight, two bedrooms – each with a king bed, two bathrooms, and a kitchen. Expensive stone tiles covered the floor. The living room had fashionable, yet comfortable, furniture. The kitchen had granite counter tops and high quality steel appliances. Stylish glass doors led onto a wraparound private terrace that overlooked the Pacific Ocean.

  “I try to get this suite whenever I come to Santa Barbara. It is a relaxing spot. And you can't beat the view,” Brandon said as he opened the terrace doors. A gentle ocean breeze and the sound of rolling waves flowed into the suite.

  “Make yourself comfortable,” said Brandon as he switched on the gas fireplace.

  I flipped off my shoes and flopped onto the comfy couch. I folded my legs under my butt and perched myself at one end of the couch. I had a perfect view of the ocean. The glowing moon reflected off the serene Pacific.

  “I think this evening calls for our best champagne. It is from one of the finest vineyards in Santa Barbara County.”

  “Sounds fabulous.”

  Brandon poured us each a glass and sat next to me on the couch.

  “To wonderful new beginnings,” he said as he raised his glass in a toast. We touched glasses and took our first sip of the champagne.