Exton

The shiver of magic sets Ramji's teeth on edge, as it always does when a spell touches him. Well, he thinks, I know the wards are working. He guides the car to a spot closer to Laila's private entrance. Grabbing a bag from the back seat, he still makes it around the car in time to get Laila's door. She smiles, pulling the coat closer and he walks her to the door, keeping a vigilant watch on their surroundings.

Only once the door is closed and latched behind them, does he relax, but only slightly.

Ramji does not know Mortuis well, but he knows the man's reputation as a powerful sorcerer. He trusts the spells, but still finds it hard to step out of his role as Rider. He lights the hearth as Laila removes her coat. It isn't until she sighs that he realizes he is still acting more guard than lover.

His lips twist in a wry grin. "I am sorry Lalia. I am what I am."

He rises and takes her in his arms, holding her close. Her dark hair tickles his chin and Ramji buries his head in the wild mass. She leans into him, whispering, "I know. I didn't say anything."

He kisses the top of her head. "You sighed."

She laughs. Pushing back, she looks up into his confused expression. "I sighed because I am glad to be within these wards. I feel a measure of safety. What did you think?"

Licking his lip, Ramji confesses, "I thought you were upset with me."

Laila pulls him to her, kissing his lips. "No. You have done nothing wrong." She takes his hand and sinks down on the rug before the fire. Ramji stretches out beside her. The wine sits on a table, momentarily forgotten.

He pulls her down on top of him and slides his hands along her body, finding the spots that make her squirm. Soon both are laughing and seeking out the ticklish spots on each other. Ramji captures her hands, bringing them to his lips to kiss her fingertips. He stares at her, suddenly serious. His calloused hands cup her face, and he kisses her, gently at first, then deeper, as if drowning and she were his lifeline. She presses close, molding her body to his, and that is his undoing.

Ramji thinks of nothing but the feel of her skin against his. Sitting up, he continues to kiss her until he has to pull off her blouse. In those few moments, he makes short work of his own T-shirt and wraps her in his arms again. His fingertips seek the opening of her bra. Frustrated at finding nothing but a wide strap, he reluctantly breaks the kiss. Laila grins at the puzzled look and reaches between them, snapping open the small hook. She peels back the lacy cups, exposing herself to his eyes.

He doesn't bother to resist. With her straddling his lap, Ramji knows Laila can feel the raging hard-on inside his jeans. She rocks, rubbing herself along his bulge, bringing a moan from his lips. He grips her hips and thrusts up, making her whimper.

"Strip for me."

His words come out harsh, rough satin, and Laila stands slowly Her skirt and panties soon are gone. Ramji slides his hands up her thighs, kisses following the scratchy caress. He kisses gently, breathing over the dampness glazing the edges of her lips. At her soft moan, Ramji kisses her nether lips, tasting her tentatively. He scrapes his teeth lightly and she shivers, knees buckling. Her hands find his head and she traps him between her thighs. Ramji cups her ass, pulling her closer, changing her angle until she shudders and gushes on his face.

With a gasp, Laila slides onto his lap. Ramji pulls her to him, kissing her, sharing Laila's own taste with her.