Free Dark Desire (Touched By You 1) by Emily Jane Trent Page A

an eye. That vulnerability promised the intimacy she knew was possible, despite all his blustering and warning her away.
    Now that she knew about his sexual preference, it was like he fully expected her to run away. Well then, he didn't know her at all. "I'm not going to retract my agreement," she told him. "I want to go on that date with you, more than anything. If you're trying to scare me, it's not working," she laughed lightly.
    Tanner was surprised at her calm, light-hearted manner. She disarmed him, never rea cting as he predicted. He was relieved at her acceptance. "I'm so glad to hear you say that," he sighed, his eyes sparkling for the first time since the fashion show. Oh, how she loved it when his eyes sparkled.

22 - Anticipation
    True to his word, Tanner arranged everything for their date. The first stop of the day was the Looking Glass Spa on the Upper East Side. The aroma of citrus and sandalwood wafted around her from the moment she entered. She was offered hand-blended tea and organic biscuits. Her package included more services than Natalie knew existed. She wished Jazzy were there to share with her.
    She was very relaxed by the end of the sessions. She'd had the signature facial, the Swedish massage and a complete waxing. Well, almost complete. She couldn't face a waxing of her pubic hair. She wondered if that was common with the women Tanner knew. He may be disappointed but she wasn't ready to allow that, just yet.
    During the hours she was pampered, soft music played and drinks were replenished continuously, so she wouldn't get dehydrated. Hydration is vital for vibrant beauty and health, she was told. Next, was her hair and make-up. If she'd thought what Cheryl had done with her was impressive, it paled in comparison. Looking in the mirror afterwards, she hardly recognized herself.
    Her dark brown hair gleamed with a shine she'd never been able to achieve before. It was piled up, with flowers positioned in a few key places. Select tendrils hung loose. Her skin looked flawless, if pale, but her cheeks had a blush of color that looked completely natural. Only she knew it wasn't. Her make-up was not overdone. It was just enough to make her look like one of the runway models, but a touch less dramatic.
    Her skin was smooth and silky from the humidifying treatment. And her feet and hands were manicured and polished. She could really get used to service like this. It made her feel fantastic.
    She'd balked at Tanner's itinerary for today, unwilling for him to break the bank for her. But he assured her that his company owned the spa and many of the other services she was to enjoy. He commanded her to submit to the day's activities, in preparation for a wonderful evening. She kept reminding herself that it would give him pleasure.
    Her personal wardrobe wasn't even considered. A wardrobe consultant ushered her into a private dressing room and she spent an hour trying on different dresses. She selected a royal blue, silk cocktail dress that was romantic, but not overly sexy. She'd have to edge into this at her own comfort level. The matching blue satin, low heels were surprisingly easy to walk in.
    No detail was left unattended. The consultant let her choose from a selection of fine French lingerie. She settled on a white lace set that was lovely and fit her slender curves ju st right. The outfit was completed with a small, delicately-embroidered clutch and a light, yet warm evening coat made of brown leather, a shade lighter than her eyes. It felt so soft around her that she was reluctant to remove it.
    The final touch was the necklace chosen for the evening. It was white gold with brilliant-cut diamonds in the pendant. Natalie nearly fainted when she heard the price , and could only consider leaving the room wearing it, after being assured that Tanner would be with her all evening, along with several well-trained bodyguards, and that it was insured against loss or theft. It was the loveliest necklace she'd ever