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They Just Click Ch. 01

By: hugs_and_kisses



Erikah James sat in front of her vanity, gazing at herself in the mirror. Her long black hair fell softly to the middle of her back in straight strands. She had just finished applying a little makeup before heading out to a gallery opening with some friends. She stared at her reflection noting her stunning emerald green eyes. Everyone told her that her beauty didn't require much, even when she was little. 

She had been invited to quite a few openings now that her photographs were starting to sell. Finally she was getting a name for herself and it had nothing to do with her looks. She thought then about how glad she was that her mother had forced her to finish school when they had first been approached about her doing some commercial modeling work. Erikah had only been a teenager and had cursed her mother for not letting her do what she thought she wanted, now though she was more than thankful for her mother stepping in.

Standing and walking to her dresser she picked up her new black lace bra with matching thong and slipped them on. Next came the lace topped silk stockings, she pulled each one up and over her long, lean legs, wiggling her toes in front. Erikah then went to the closet and picked out what she thought would be the perfect dress for the evening. It was a little black number that perfectly accentuated the curves of her body. She slipped it on then slid her slender feet into the black stiletto heels she always wore with this outfit. For her, it was always difficult to find a pair that she was actually comfortable in but these were them.

She stepped back and turned to look at herself in the full-length mirror in the corner of her room and smiled. It still amazed her how good she could look in a simple outfit. It drew attention to the various parts of her body that needed it. Running her hands down her sides, smoothing the dress, smiling into the mirror that one last time, deciding she looked perfect. After her final approval she reached for her small purse and headed out the door.

Erikah was running a few minutes late and knew her girlfriends would give her a difficult time. They had planed to meet at a local dive for a drink before the opening. She was never right on time for anything with them. This night seemed to be no exception yet she knew she'd be forgiven; after all they were great friends.

***

Jake Roberts sipped on his bourbon as he stood in his boxer-briefs, looking into his closet trying to decide which suit to wear. He was going to the opening of the gallery of his first client. The architecture firm he worked for had no idea he was starting to branch out on his own. Yet he didn't care if they found out, especially after spending the last six years of his life wasting his talents for a boss that didn't seem to notice he was there.

It wasn't as though he was out looking for work. He had actually been approached by a friend to design the gallery. He had known of Jake's talents which included his library of photos of the architecture around New York. They only added to his ability to design an amazing gallery. Being an amateur photographer helped him because he knew how to design the lighting to best display the artwork as well as the plan of the gallery itself. Most went over the top, distracting from the beauty of the photos they were showing. 

Flipping through the various suits he grabbed a silk black one with a matching shirt. He had bought it a few days ago along with a black silk tie. It could be perfect for tonight he thought to himself. Laying it on the bed Jake debated if it was too much. Taking out another shirt, this one was still silk but cream colored and a blood red tie he placed it on the bed. It was then obvious that the second was better. What he really wanted was to just go in jeans and a comfortable shirt. He knew, though, that the opening was going to be a formal affair. Besides, he wanted to make a good impression with the other people at the opening as they might be potential clients.

He slipped on the suit and looked in the mirror, straightening the tie then combing his dark brown hair. He smiled, thinking to himself how the suit did make him look pretty good. It showed off his toned form just enough without being overbearing. Jake looked at his watch and realized he was going to be late. Johnathan, his client and friend, had asked him to be there early so they could talk about some things before the guests started to arrive. He was sure his friend was just having some pre-opening jitters. He left the house smiling happy with life and what he was doing.

***

Erikah stepped out of the cab in front of the little pub. After paying the driver she hurried through the door, and spotted her friends at a table in the corner. As she looked around the room she could feel eyes on her, both of men and women. She always attracted those stares wherever she was and had just learned to deal with it. Walking over to her friends she could see them shaking their heads. It was only a matter of time before they let her have it. It was all in good fun and she really didn't mind. Her friends were more like sisters. 

"How long did that look take you, 30 minutes? And yet you're still late," Natalie said as she sat.

"Really, how do you do it? It would take the rest of us hours to look like that," Cassie added.

"Leave her alone you two. Can she help it if God gave her the package and all she has to do is wrap it?" Veronica said with a teasing poke at Erikah

Erikah blushed lightly. "Sorry, I'm late, I couldn't find a thing to wear," she said teasingly, knowing her friends all knew she had this dress picked out as soon as she got this invitation. 

Even though she knew everyone thought she was stunningly beautiful, she didn't entirely see it and rarely flaunted what she knew she had. She always took those compliments with a grain of salt. It seemed to keep her level headed most days. Even though she'd heard it all she never let it get to her. To Erikah she was just your average girl next door.

"Chardonnay...," she said to the waitress when asked what she would like to drink. She guessed there would be champagne and wine at the opening so she didn't want to go with anything too strong too early. There was always an after party at events like this. She was sure she'd have plenty to drink later.

The ladies all chatted lightly; enjoying their drinks before they decided it was time to go. They stood and headed towards the door. Again they could feel eyes on them, almost drawn to them. Each of the four women was beautiful in their own way and none ever had trouble attracting attention. It seemed that when they were all together the attention only multiplied.

***

Jake's nerves were starting to get to him a little as he stepped from the taxi in front of the gallery. He hadn't talked with Johnathan since the builders had finished and he hoped he was happy with the way it had turned out. He was sure he'd have heard something before now but still those nerves never went away. Looking over the exterior of the building, the framework, the doorway, every little detail including the awning looked great. 

"Jake, you sexy beast," he heard as he walked through the door. He turned and saw Johnathan smiling at him and approaching holding the hand of Derek, his latest fling.

"Do you like it?" Jake asked as he looked around the room. He took in some of the pictures on the walls, smiling then at the way the general lighting lit the room. The colors that the interior designer had picked out allowed it to give off a subtle glow. Everything looked just how he had envisioned it, contemporary, but with an old building flare to it.

"If you mean the gallery, I love it. If you mean the suit, I couldn't have picked a better one for you myself," Johnathan said teasingly.

"I thought you would approve," Jake laughed at his friend's reply. "So what did you need to talk to me about before your guests arrive?" he asked. They started to discuss a couple of minor issues as Derek found them a glass of champagne. There was nothing, nothing that would stop the opening. They all toasted to the gallery and its success. Moments later the doors were opened and the guests arrived.

They Just Click Ch. 02



Erikah walked into the gallery with her friends and couldn't help but look the place over. She had been there during the day to help hang the couple of pictures of hers that were on display, but the place looked completely different at night. The lighting was adjusted, falling on the various photographs just right. Plus, the place was now overflowing with people, which always helped.

"Erikah, why didn't you tell us?" Veronica said teasingly as she was the first to spot Erikah's pictures.

"What are you talking ... Wow! In such a high traffic spot too," said Cassie as she saw the pictures, her eyes widening a little at the location of them.

"That's wonderful," was all Natalie said as the all-girls group hugged before going over to the display.

Erikah smiled as she watched her three best friends admiring her work. They had been her biggest supporters through the rough times when she was first getting started with her art and now they were just as proud that she was finally getting the recognition she deserved. Sure, this was only the beginning, but it signaled so many wonderful new opportunities for her. Her friends knew that, too, and they were so happy for her.

"All right you three, lets look around. We've got to stop blocking everyone's view," Erikah said teasingly. She was trying to get her friends to stop making such a big deal about her pictures. Compliments about them always made her a little funny; she was just too shy about her photographs. Then she chuckled to herself as she noticed that there were only a couple of people looking at them anyway.

"You know I need to find one of those cute guys with the champagne," she said quietly to Veronica as they walked away.

***

Jake was wandering the gallery looking at the photographs, trying to find something for his apartment. He wanted something professional that he could proudly hang on the wall, not like the amateur pictures that he had taken. 

He walked around a corner as four ladies walked away from a display giggling to each other. The giggling was with a dignified air, not the little school girl giggles he hated so much. Walking over he looked at the pictures they had just left. The first thing that went through his mind was how amazing they were. Something he could not pinpoint made them stand out far above the others he had seen.

"I'm going to have to ask Johnathan about these," he said to himself softly as he sipped his champagne, staring at the pictures.

"See anything you like gorgeous?" he heard just as he was about to walk away. Looking over his shoulder, he saw Johnathan.

"I was just thinking about you...," Jake said pausing for effect. "What can you tell me about these photos?" he asked, pointing to the pictures in front of them.

"And here I thought you were thinking about me, not just some silly pictures," Johnathan said with a mock hurt to his voice, knowing Jake was 100 percent straight. "What I can tell you is that you just missed the artist. Her and her wonderful friends were here not two minutes ago. She's new and I must say she has an amazing future ahead of her," Johnathan said, laying his hand lightly on Jakes arm "Would you like to meet her?"

Johnathan took Jake by the arm and started leading him through the gallery before Jake had a chance to agree or disagree.

***

"Erikah darling ..." Johnathan proclaimed as he walked up to the ladies, dropping Jake's arm and kissing a strikingly beautiful woman on the cheek. "I have someone you simply must meet," he said motioning to Jake. "This gorgeous man is Jake Roberts, he is the architect behind this behemoth of a gallery," he said teasing Jake as Erikah moved near him. 

As Erikah turned, she gave the man a quick once over. He looked familiar, but she couldn't quite figure out why or where she might have seen him. There was just that something about him. It was something that seemed to pull to her and make her want to know more.

The first thing Jake noticed as she turned was her eyes. The color was unlike any he had seen before. They were dark and yet so full of life and beauty. They showed like emeralds in the gallery lighting. It reminded him of the Emerald City. He couldn't take his eyes from her. The woman's hair, her face, it was all pure beauty.

"Jake, this is Erikah James. She is the artist who took the pictures you were asking about," Johnathan said with a smile as he saw the look on Jake's face and knew what he was thinking.

The two shook hands politely and Jake felt a twinge run up his arm at the contact. It shook him out of his stupor enough he could actually talk. "Your pictures are amazing. Can I ask for details about them?" he inquired. It took that moment for him to compose himself. The biggest problem was that he knew he had blushed; a pretty woman did that to him and he had never seen one quite like her. In that moment he hoped to God she hadn't noticed.

"Of course you can," Erikah said with a smile. She noticed the slight change of color in his cheeks. It was nice to know she wasn't the only one affected by the meeting. She then proceeded to tell him a little bit about where they had been taken, what some of the surroundings were, nothing too detailed, just the basics.

Their conversation continued as they sipped champagne, finally agreeing on a price and that she would deliver them the following Tuesday. Jake had mentioned plans with some friends and Erikah had her own plans that weekend. It just worked out better for them both. 

Jake took out one of his cards and wrote his address on the back and handed it to her. "Let me know what time you can deliver them. Any time after six is the best for me with work and all. I hope that isn't a problem."

"No, it's not a problem at all. Shall we say seven, just to be safe?" she replied as she noticed the address on the card. "Manhattan," she thought, "He must be doing okay," and tucked the card into her purse and the group parted ways.

***

Jake wandered around for the remainder of the evening, occasionally seeing Erikah and her friends, chatting lightly with them as they looked at some of the same artwork. Much to Johnathan's disappointment, though, he skipped the after party. He knew he had to work the next day and didn't want to go in with any kind of hangover.

When he got home he couldn't help but think about her, the woman from whom he bought the photographs. He knew he wouldn't be able to sleep right away, so he looked around his apartment and tried to figure out the best places to hang the pictures. When he had decided, he went to bed. He was pleased to have finally found the exact pieces he had been seeking.

The next morning when he arrived at work, he was called into his boss's office. His boss told him to sit and simply pointed to a chair. Jake could tell by the look in his eyes that he was not happy. He never understood his boss or anything the old man did.

"I'd like to hear your explanation for this," Mr. Anderson said gruffly as he flipped a portion of the days' Times at him.

Jake picked it up and looked. His jaw almost dropped to the floor when he saw a picture of himself with Johnathan at last nights opening, the caption proclaiming him as the brilliant up and coming architect behind the new gallery. He hadn't even realized anyone was going to be there from the paper. Yet the more he thought about the more he smiled to himself. Perhaps this was the push he needed.

"Well sir, I think it pretty much explains itself. Yes, I did design Johnathan's new gallery," Jake said defiantly. He was getting more and more tired of being treated like an educated flunky every day. It was time he stood his ground.

"Jake, I think you need to take a serious look at your future, whether you want to work here or not. I expect your complete attention when you are in this office. If you are trying to do work on your own, then I don't think I'm getting everything I need from you. Now if you would please go try to accomplish something useful for the company," Mr. Anderson said abruptly, ending the conversation.

Jake fumed as he walked back to his desk. He didn't stop to chat with anyone like he normally did. Right now, he was glad his Fridays work day ended at noon. He sat for a moment, thinking, when an idea came to him. He called one of his friends he was supposed to hang out with and take photos of the city and told him he was going to get out of town for the weekend. Then he called his friend with the place in the Hamptons to make sure the open invitation to his beach house was still good.

The morning seemed to drag on as he couldn't wait to get out of the hell that his job had become. When noon finally rolled around he almost ran from the building to the bus stop, timing it perfectly. He never drove his car to work because parking was atrocious and the bus dropped him off about a block from his apartment building. Besides all of that, he enjoyed walking and the fresh air.

As soon as he got in the door he quickly threw some clothes in a bag, changed into a light shirt and khaki shorts, and headed to the parking garage. Jake was barely able to control his excitement of getting away for the weekend. Heading from the garage he turned on his Sirius and settled into the soft leather seat for the drive heading down the 495. 

When he saw the signs for Hampton Bays, he decided he needed a cup of coffee and pulled over in front of a little shop. He stopped there quite often and everyone seemed to know him. They made a great latte and weren't overly expensive like some places.

***

Erikah and her friends decided to go to the after party and she was slightly disappointed that Jake wasn't there. She was hoping to talk to him in a little more relaxed environment to try to figure out where she might have seen him before. At least that way she could maybe understand her draw to the man.

She had a few drinks and graciously accepted the compliments she received from some of the people who had been at the opening. They commented not only on the quality of her work but also on how fast they had sold. The night went quickly and she soon found herself walking into her apartment well into the wee hours of the morning. It was a good thing she didn't have to work. Her friends had convinced her to celebrate by taking the weekend off and go with them to the Hamptons.

She quickly undressed and slipped into bed. Erikah drifted off to sleep thinking about her weekend in the sun and for some reason thinking about the man who had bought her pictures. Both thoughts brought a small smile to her lips as she faded off into a peaceful abyss.

The sunlight streaming through her window woke her and she was glad she hadn't drunk too much the night before. Sitting up, she stretched and realized how tired she was when she got home. She hadn't even bothered to change from her lace panties and bra into a nightie. Not that it was a big deal, it just surprised her and she chuckled.

Erikah went into her kitchen and turned on the coffee pot before jumping into the shower while it brewed. The hot water did an amazing job of washing away the lack of sleep. She started to think about what to pack for the weekend. There was the new hot pink bikini that had been delivered the day before; it was a definite take-along piece. The rest, she thought, would just fall into place.

She pulled her hair back into a ponytail and dressed in a light green sundress before packing her clothes, finishing just as her cell phone rang. It was Veronica announcing they were there to pick her up. It was just like her friends to give her a second's notice. She threw the strap of her bag over her shoulder and headed down to the car.

The four girls talked and joked on their drive, enjoying the sunshine with the top to Veronica's convertible down. The trip seemed to fly by and soon they were pulling over in front of the little coffee shop that seemed to be a staple of their trips before heading to the beach house.

***

When Jake stepped to the counter, he heard a woman's laugh that sounded familiar. He wasn't quite sure why, it just struck his mind and lingered there making him search out its source. He placed his order and then turned slightly looking around the little shop. That's when he saw her. 

Her back was to him, but he knew. She was already burned into his brain and he'd only met her briefly. It could have been her hair or even because he recognized her friends. Jake seemed to think it was something else, well hell, he hoped there was something else.

"Don't look now hun, but I think your newest customer is on his way to our table," Veronica said softly to Erikah with a devilish grin on her face.

"Erikah, what a surprise to see you here," Jake said politely as she turned, hoping he wasn't interrupting their conversation.

"Hi Jake, I didn't know the Hamptons were your plans for the weekend," she said in reply as she offered him a seat.

They talked for a little bit about how Jake's original plans had changed and how they were both staying at friends' beach houses for the weekend. It was just general light conversation until Jake looked at his watch. He had to get moving if he wanted to be there at his expected arrival time.

"Well, I really need to get going, my friends are expecting me and they hate it when I'm late," he said as he stood and took her hand in his. "Maybe we'll see each other sometime over the weekend." A smile crossed his lips and his eyes met hers.

"Let's hope so," she said softly, returning the smile.

***

Jake left the shop with that smile permanently burned into his mind once again. He knew he wouldn't be able to get her out of his head, but also knew he had to, at least for a little while, so he could think about work and what he wanted to do. He needed to remain level-headed about his future. He wanted to go off on his own but there was always that fear. He hoped this weekend would help him decide.

He drove down the highway, happy to be free of the worries of his job. The fresh air would really do his mind some good. His hands gripped the steering wheel and he thought of the beautiful photographer. Jake really hoped he would see more of her during his time here. The beach was huge but the thought of bumping into her was perfect.

In quick order, he arrived at his friends' house. They were hanging out and greeted him with high fives and hellos. It hadn't been that long since he'd hung out with the guys but it seemed like an eternity. They laughed and joked as Jake got his things from the car. He was taking his usual room just off the beach, doors opening to it so he could come and go easily.

"Hey Jake we are going to have a cookout later. Make yourself at home while we run up to get a few things. Beers in the fridge," Devon said before leaving the room.

He put some stuff away and grabbed a much needed beer. There was a hammock on the porch and he decided to take advantage of it. He had turned on some music and sunk into the hammock, just enjoying the quiet time. He let his eyes close for a moment and thought of the girl with a beautiful smile. 

***

Erikah sat and watched him leave amid the teasing from her friends. Her only reply to them was, "Oh be quiet, he is cute after all." 

She didn't want to admit anything right now. She had only met him and he really was just a guy that bought some photos, a client. Sure, she felt there might be more but right now it was a simple attraction. Erikah silently hoped that she would see him this weekend. It would make for an added bonus. She enjoyed talking with him, learning things.

Soon the girls decided to head to the house. It wasn't much farther and so the trip was quick. The girls piled out of the convertible and into the house. Soon there was music and a nice breeze blowing in as Erikah hung up her things in the bedroom.

"So you ready for the beach there girlie," asked Cassie, eying the bikini.

"Let me change and we'll go," she said and then they were all on their way to stick their toes in the sand.



They Just Click Ch. 03



As the girls lay on their blankets in the sand they noticed and felt the men around them keep glancing their way. "This is too funny. You'd swear these guys never saw a woman in a bikini before," Cassie said with a playful giggle as she sat up on her elbows. She was easily the "bubbly" one of the group.

"Why should here be any different hun. You can't tell me you've never noticed men staring at the four of us before," Veronica said as she sat up rolling her long lean body onto an elbow to glance over the top of her sunglasses at Cassie. She was always the more serious one of them.

Natalie, surprisingly, didn't say anything, just giggled as she lay back letting the sun warm her skin, shaking her head slightly at them. Usually, she was the one with the snappy come backs, but for some reason decided to let Roni handle this one. She had developed the "to the point" way of talking when she became friends with Roni. While beautiful in her own right, she was a little curvier and she felt her looks didn't compare to Roni's so she needed something to compete with when they went out. 

Erikah on the other hand didn't notice the teasing going on as she had drifted into her own little world. Closing her eyes, she allowed a picture of Jake to form on the inside of her eyelids, a small grin then moving onto her lips. Her silence was noticed by the other three who all were staring at her and each other.

"I think someone has a case of the hots and needs cooled down," Nat finally said as she squirted a little water from her bottle at Erikah. The cool water splashing across her firm tummy caused Erikah to jump as she was pulled reluctantly from her dream world.

"What the..." she looked over at Nat. "I do not have the hots. I was just enjoying the sun," she said trying, unsuccessfully to defend herself and return the squirt of cool water.

The only problem with the water exchange was that Cassie was between them. She would let out a little squeak each time the shot water at one another because a few always landed on her. Her sounds though, only drew more attention from the people around them. All the girls started laughing at the sounds Cassie made.

"Would you two quit already," Cassie pleaded trying to sound serious but ended up giggling. Her comment drew a stream of water from both Nat and Erikah.

**

Jake was lying back in the hammock sipping on his beer, still unable to get that smile out of his head. It was frustrating to him. The main reason he had come out here for the weekend was to try to think about his job and what he really wanted out of life. Now all he could think about was her.

He could still hear her laugh. It was so close, like he only needed to look over his shoulder to see her. Man, he thought what a day dream. His eyes snapped open when he heard it again. Jake shook his head, trying to clear it yet the laughter continued. He had started to turn his head in his head in the direction he thought it had come from when he was interrupted.

"Jake, get off your lazy ass and help us with this stuff," Dan said jokingly as he walked into the house, keeping Jake from looking toward the beach. He got up from the hammock and walked into the kitchen to help the other three with the groceries they had bought for the cookout.

"Holy shit guys, how many people are coming over?" Jake said with a laugh as he saw the small mountain of bags.

"Around here, you never know," was Al's reply from the fridge as he made room for some of the beer they had bought and handed one to each of the guys.

"Friday night cookouts are open to whoever wants to stop by," said Ben from the other corner of the kitchen. "Everyone takes turns and tonight happens to be ours, so get your grilling apron ready buddy," he said with a smile as he started to season the meat for the evening.

The guys all went out to he patio and sat drinking their beer. Dan, who owned the house, kept a constant eye on the clock not wanting it to get to late before they finished getting ready for the cookout.

**

All four girls were enjoying the warmth of the sun, chatting about nothing and everything at the same time. 

"So, chickies, what do we want to do tonight?" Roni asked as she sat up, looking across at the other three. Her long red hair fell back almost to the blanket. Her tanned lean body set off by the fire red bikini she had on.

"Well, there's always someone having a party along the beach somewhere. We just have to find one we want to go to," Cassie said as she stretched her petite sky blue bikini covered body. She sat up and moved to the end of her blanket, crossing her legs, and resting her elbows on her knees as she shook the little bit of sand out of her short blonde hair and looked at the other girls.

"There's something that sounds fun, getting all dolled up to have a bunch of drunk idiots hit on us all night," Nat said as she retied the strings of her black bikini before she rolled over onto her back, stretching a little and brushing her long blonde hair out of her face. Her sarcasm wasn't missed by the other girls as they knew Nat enjoyed the cookout parties as much as the rest of them did.

"Well, we could take a little stroll up the beach and see who's having the Friday night cookout," Erikah said as she rolled from her stomach onto an elbow and flipped her hair back. . "Besides, I didn't buy this thing just for you three to look at" she said with a giggle as she played with the strings of her new pink and white bikini.

The other three girls agreed so they gathered their things and started off down the beach away from their house. As they walked, they joked and laughed with each other.

Along the way they stopped a few times to talk to some people they knew, both from the city and from their occasional weekends at the beach. In those conversations, they had managed to find out where and when the cookout was that night. A guy named Dan was hosting it with some of his buddies. One of Cassie's friends from the city pointed out the house to them.

"So what do you think girls? Should we plan on it or what?" Erikah asked as they started back toward their own house, which was a path that took them past the house where the party would be.

"Why the hell not? We can at least check it out," said Roni.

The girls all agreed as they walked past the house. It was very well kept and looked beautiful, which was unlike some of the other places they had been to out here. This one almost made them feel comfortable, not like they were taking their lives in their own hands by walking in. So they all assumed they would be safe in enjoying a cookout there.

**

The guys finished their beers and figured it was probably about time to finish getting things lined up for the cookout. The house needed to be cleaned a little, coolers needed to be filled, etc., etc.

"Wow," Dan muttered as he was fluffing the cushions in the living room. He had glanced out the door and saw the most striking group of women he had seen in a while. He turned and walked to the kitchen.

"You know Jake, there's one great thing about having a house on the beach. I just saw four women walking on the beach that would take your breath away," he said matter of factly to Jake as he was working on some of the side dishes.

"There are plenty of them around here buddy," Jake said with a smile. Partly thinking of all the hot girls he had seen on the beach both today and other weekends.

"These four were different though, not your average beach bunnies. They were clearly sophisticated women. I could tell by the way they carried themselves," Dan replied.

"So you're an expert just by a simple glance hu?" Ben joked as he carried in another bag of ice for the coolers.

"Kiss my ass Ben," Dan replied with a laugh.

"Careful Ben or he'll make you stay in your room tonight," Al teased while finishing the marinade for the meat.

The four of them talked a little more and one by one ventured off to their rooms to get ready for the evening.

**

Erikah and the girls got home and each made their way to their rooms. They didn't have too long before the cookout was going to begin but enough time to shower and clean the beach from their limbs. With only two showers Nat and Erikah let the others go first. They were too busy looking through their clothes and deciding on what to wear. 

"I think I'll just keep it simple," Nat said.

"Don't want to overdue it do ya," Erikah said with a smile. She knew Nat always dressed a little over the top so for her to "keep it simple" would be something to see.

"What, you don't believe me?"

"Let's just say it will be a feat worth seeing," Erikah laughed.

"What's funny Erikah?" Roni asked as she walked to her room.

"Oh just the fact that our friend Natalie thinks she can just wear something simple tonight," she said with a smile.

"That's classic. Just wait till Cassie hears that," Roni said through her laughter.

"Hears what?" said the four member of their girl group.

"Oh these two down think I can dress simple," said Nat.

"You can't," Cassie said with a wink. 

All the girls laughed. Natalie wasn't upset, she knew it was true. She may always kick up her clothes a notch but it was only her way to compete with her friends. She was the one that was still not feeling as though she could compete with their looks. No one had ever said anything to her; it was just something she had always felt.

"Alright missy," she said pointing to Erikah, "we need to shower and let these to dress." While they showered, Roni and Cassie did manage to dress simply. Roni decided on a pair of jean shorts and a white tank top. Her long red hair lay on her back as she finished her makeup up with some lip gloss. She went back put on her white wedge shoes and went off to grab a drink.

Cassie ran her fingers through her hair as she looked over her reflection. She ended up in a black mini skirt and light blue halter top. It fit her personality to a tee. Plus blue was her favorite color and she liked to wear it. She ran her hands along her sides and she let her feet move into a pair black sandals.

Nat left the shower and quickly dried her long blonde hair. She put on just a touch of makeup, she never wore much. Dressing she opted for a halter sun dress. It would show off her tanned skin and body well. Plus the curves she had would look just perfect. She slipped into the pale yellow dress and slipped on a white pair of strappy sandals. Yes she thought this is simple.

Erikah dried her hair and went back into her room and searched for something. She always seemed to the most casual of her friends, well maybe Roni would tie her there. She pulled out a sundress, it was pink, a light shade that would compliment her black hair and semi fair skin. She had some white sandals that would look great with it and slipped them on. She then went on off in search of her friends.

"Ahh so that is simple," Cassie said to Natalie.

"For me it is," she laughed.

"Very nice girls," Erikah said as she came into the kitchen. "Shall we get our hot tushes moving?"

With that the group of woman made their way out the door. They headed to the house and the cookout that looked to be already underway.

** 

The guys all made their way back to the kitchen slowly. Each dressed about the usual, board shorts and t-shirts. Jake was going out to begin heating the grill when the doorbell rang. He was sure one of the guys would get it.

He placed the ribs on the grill. The seasoning from them filled the air. He closed the lid and took another sip of his beer. He looked out over the back porch, the ocean looked beautiful. The sun was still up and wouldn't be setting for an hour or two. He felt his cares somewhat going away. 

Several people were arriving and Jake smiled and said his small hellos. He'd completely forgotten about the laughter from earlier on the beach. He made his way back to the kitchen and smiled to Al and Ben. They were talking to a couple girls while getting a few other things together. Dan was the only one he didn't see right away. He went into the cooler and grabbed another beer when he heard Dan's voice. He turned his head to see him in a group of four girls. Dan always thought himself a ladies man Jack thought with a laugh.

"Hey Jake come here and meet some new people," Dan said.

The four girl's heads turned toward each other and a little laughter filled the room. It sounded familiar, very familiar. The girl in the middle, wearing pink turned and Jake's jaw fell along with his beer. It hit the ground and broke, splattering him on the way down.

"Nice job slick," he heard Ben say.

He shook his head and smiled into the eyes he had yet to forget about. He had been taken by surprise. He'd never expected to see Erikah so soon. Yet she was here before him and he had just spilled beer on him.

"I'll be back," he said and walked away.

The girls laughed, Erikah smiled and watched him leave. Dan watched the reaction and noted that his friend wasn't his usual self. He guessed he knew the girls and wondered how. 

"Sorry, poor Jake usually has better manners," he told them.

"Yeah, we know Jake," said Natalie.

"How's that?" he questioned the girls.

"He bought a couple of photos of mine recently," Erikah said with a smile.

"Oh, I see. Well he should be back out before too long. Make yourself at home. I've got to make sure dinner is moving along," he said leaving the four amazing woman to talk.

**

Shit, Jake thought to himself, of all the times to loose it. Well at least now she'd seen him at his worst. He changed and cleaned himself off before venturing back out. He saw that the guys had finished with everything all that was need were the ribs. He went out to check on them but found Dan and Al had taken over. 

"No worries, we've got it under control," Al said.

"Thanks guys. Sorry about the mess too," he said.

"Yeah, no problem but if we run out you have to go and get more," said Al with a laugh.

Jake looked around, scanning the crowd for her. He wanted to talk with her. It was only by second glance he saw her walking from the porch to the beach. Her girlfriends we all involved in their own conversations with various guys.

"Hey stranger," he said jumping over the railing and landing in front of her.

"Hey yourself, I didn't think I'd see you so soon," she smiled at him as they walked.

"Either did I. How's things been since you got here?"

"Good, hung out at the beach today. Just relaxing," she said looking out at the water.

"That sounds like what I did, just trying to clear my head. It's been a long week," he told her.

"Stressful. It was my first big showing you know."

"Then I'm sure. You have an eye you know. Your work is beautiful."

"Thank you. My mother wasn't always sure of my choice to be a photographer but it's what I always thought I was good at," she smiled.

"I can understand that. It's tough to make the choice to follow your heart and do what you love. Believe me," he said with a sigh to his voice.

"Want to talk about it?" Erikah asked.

"It's just my job, deciding if I want to play at being an architect or actually do it. My boss thinks I can't handle it yet and that's why I did Johnathan's place. I'm stuck right trying to decide if I stay or give it a go on my own," he said feeling glad he had someone to talk with about it all.

"I can understand that Jake. It takes strength to do what you believe is right. I'm sure you'll make the right choice when you need to," she said patting his arm while they walked.

The conversation fell into a lull as they headed back towards the house. Both were comfortable so the silence wasn't bad. They spent the rest of the night talking, chatting, and getting to know more about each other. They both found they had similar likes in music and movies. It amazed them both how at ease they were, it was as if they had been friends for so long everything was flowing so easily.

Soon the sun began to set and people moved more onto the beach. A fire was set in the pit and people gathered around while some danced to the music Al had turned on. Jake and Erikah even took their turn moving with the others. Laughter was a familiar sound the rest of the evening. 

The party and crowd seemed to slow and lessen. The girls had left earlier but Erikah stayed behind. Her and Jake hit it off well and decided the next day to get their friends together for a game of volleyball. Jake knew the boys wouldn't mind and he wanted to see the beautiful woman again.

He was a gentleman and walked her back to her place when she was ready. She was expecting a kiss, something. There was an attraction there between them. Anyone could see it so she waited before opening the door, fumbling with her keys, giving him the perfect chance to kiss her.

Jake was nervous, he wanted to kiss Erikah but he was so unsure. There was something about her. Something was different than other girls he'd been with and so he didn't want to rush anything but he couldn't help the urge he had to thread his fingers into her black hair and kiss her.

"Goodnight Jake," she whispered kissing his cheek.

"Night Erikah," he said.

Then the door opened and closed leaving him alone and wishing he would have just taken that chance. He wondered what was wrong with him. He had been given the chance and blown it. Oh well, he said to the night air, there is always tomorrow.

Erikah made it to her bed. She undressed slipped into a tank and panty set and fell asleep thinking of why Jake hadn't kissed her. She thought she had given him enough signals. She hated those mind games, trying to let him know what she wanted. She should have just said kiss me. That was her last thought before falling into dream land.

**

Morning came and passed fairly quickly as Jake and Erikah explained to their friends what was going on that day. The volleyball game was a big hit with both sides. Everyone was up for it. The girls had a competitive streak in them that wouldn't be denied. The girls brought some sandwiches and the guys some leftovers from the cookout. 

There was some smack talk between the two parties, even a little bet. The looser had to take a dip in the ocean bottomless or topless depending on who won. The girls were all for it and agreed completely. The guys thought this would be an easy win but found out as the afternoon went on how wrong they were. They ended up loosing all but one game. Needless to say the girls all watched them strip and head off to the ocean.

The laughter nearly made the girls fall over. They pointed and wiped tears from their eyes as they told the guys they had warned them. Then of course they let it slip that the four of them had been on their volleyball team in high school together and played often. The boys just reached for their shorts and shook their heads.

They built a fire and sat around it. Everyone talked about their weeks and how much they had enjoyed this weekend. Now that they all knew each other they thought it would be nice to make it a routine. So everyone exchanged numbers before the night ended. The group had actually grown fond of one another and so they hugged when the girls called it a night. Jake and Erikah said their goodbyes and that she would still be bringing the photos so they'd see each other soon.

The rest of the night was quiet as was that following morning. The girls packed their bags and crammed back it into Roni's car. The wind felt nice as they drove toward the coffee shop. They would be stopping again. This time not so much for tradition rather then need. 

They pulled in an Erikah was lost in her mind thinking of Jake. She wondered if they would ever share a kiss or if she'd been the only one to feel the attraction. She got out of the car and saw what she thought was Jake getting into his car. She called out his name but it was too late, the car took off.




They Just Click Ch. 04-05



Jake woke up the next morning with two things on his mind. First thing he thought of when he opened his eyes was Erikah; her smile, her voice, the feel of her hand in his when they had walked on the beach Saturday night. It all made him smile. It had been a long time since he'd had a woman affect him the way she already had. The not knowing of it made him a little nervous.

The other, his job; he hadn't really decided what he wanted to do, if he was going to stay in what seemed like a dead end job for the security of it or if he wanted to try it on his own. He believed if he could get a couple more jobs like Johnathan's gallery and establish a reputation he could make it work. Those thoughts and the realization of having to go to the office and face his boss took care of the smiles from thinking of her.

He went to his kitchen and started the coffee before he showered quickly. He had overslept a little so he didn't have time for the long shower he wanted. He dressed in his usual shirt and tie, filled a mug and grabbed his briefcase before heading out the door to the bus stop. His mind was so occupied with thinking about his career on the ride to the office that he almost missed getting off at his stop.

As he walked into the office, everyone was gathered around Mr. Anderson's secretary's desk with concerned looks on their faces. He walked up and listened to a portion of the conversation. Apparently the boss's wife had been in an accident over the weekend and she was laid up at home. The boss was taking a couple of days off to take care of her, which brought a small sigh of relief from Jake. The situation would give him an extra couple of days to think things over.

His relief was slightly short lived when he got to his desk and checked his voice mail. There was a message from his boss saying that he wanted to talk to him first thing Wednesday morning, along with a large stack of things that needed to be taken care of before then. More menial tasks that could easily be done by someone with less expertise but his boss thought was good enough for him to do.

He spent a large portion of his morning on the phone with customers who had been expecting a call from Mr. Anderson. Most were not happy that Jake was the one calling instead of Mr. Anderson so he was forced to take the verbal lashings and try to calm them down.

Just before lunch his phone rang. He looked at the display and saw it was Nina, Mr. Anderson's secretary. He paused for a moment before picking it up, knowing there was only one reason she'd be buzzing him.

"This is Jake," he said with some disgust when he finally picked it up.

"Mr. Anderson is on the line and asked to speak to you, and he sounds grumpy," Nina said with a little sympathy in her voice.

With that, the next thing he heard was a little beep and suddenly he was getting an ear full. Mr. Anderson had called to make sure he was doing what he had left for him to do and not spending the day working on his own stuff. Jake reassured him he was working his way through the call list and would be through it by mid-afternoon and then he was going to work on the paper work.

"Fine," was all Mr. Anderson said before hanging up.

"Asshole," Jake muttered as he stared at the phone before placing it not so gently in its cradle.

He took out his cell phone and had Erikah's number on the display ready to dial it before he knew what he was doing. He decided not to call her even though he knew the sound of her voice was all it would take to lighten his mood. He didn't want to seem pushy.

###

As soon as Erikah woke up she remembered the little message Jake had left on her answering machine the night before. She smiled as she cuddled into her pillow, holding it tight. She was a little unsure of where this new found friendship would lead, but she was sure she wanted to see it through. Yawning she glanced over at the clock and decided it was time to get up.

She got up, grabbed her robe and slipped it on. As she walked to her kitchen to start her coffee, she walked past her answering machine and before she knew it, had pushed the play button; again listening to his message as she kept walking.

Erikah headed back towards the shower and stopped by the machine again. Her hand instinctively went for the play button, but her mind caught up with her before she actually pushed it. "Come on girl, get it together," she said softly to herself as her finger rested lightly on the play button.

Then she headed to the bathroom. There were several hours before she had to meet a new client at her studio and decided a long bath was what she needed instead of a shower. She stripped off her soft satin robe and then removed her cute silk pj's. When the tub was full Erikah slowly lowered herself into the hot bubbly water. She laid her head back on her soft bath pillow and let her eyes drift closed. 

Soon her mind was wandering down a path filled with images of Jake. Her hands started to move over her body. Slowly they slid up her sides and up her neck, down her chest, cupping a breast in each, toying with her nipples as she imagined that touch being his. That it was his strong hands cupping her, toying with her hardened nipples. She traced light lines down her tummy with her manicured finger nails to the soft folds of her pussy.

It was then her eyes snapped open as she let out a little whimper of pleasure. Had she just been, with thoughts of Jake? Her body cried out its protest as she stopped her touch with this realization. Her hands quickly covered her face. "Oh my god, what is wrong with you?" she said to herself as her head slipped under the water.

She stepped from the tub and dried herself before going to her bedroom to dress. She picked out a pink lace bra and matching thong. Slipped them on and put on her usual low rise jeans and a soft red t-shirt over them, and finished the look with her suede boots. She pulled her hair back into a pony tail before heading to the kitchen for her coffee and then out the door.

Her first client of the day was a young mother named Debbie. It seemed Debbie wanted pictures of her toddler for the little girls first birthday. Erikah was a little hesitant to even do the sitting.

"I don't see many children's portraits," the woman said as she looked at some of the portraits and candid photos hanging on the walls of the studio after Erikah introduced herself and told her to take a look around.

"I don't do a ton of photos of children, most of my portraits are of adults," Erikah said a little sheepishly hoping it wouldn't turn the woman away.

"Can I see some of the ones you have done, or maybe some more of your adult work?" she asked with a smile

Erikah brought out a couple of her portfolio books letting the woman thumb through them. "These are amazing," she said softly. It was obvious there was more on the woman's mind than just having her daughter's picture taken.

"Um, I don't know exactly how to ask you this," the woman said trying to avoid making eye contact. "Well since I had Jen, I haven't exactly felt attractive. Do you do, um, any adult portraits? Ones that might show me off in a more attractive manner, help me to get my confidence back?" she asked as her cheeks matched the color of Erikah's t-shirt.

Erikah smiled at the woman, she understood that feeling as she had many clients that felt that way. She stood, holding her hand out to her. "Come with me," she said leading the woman into another room. "I don't display these for obvious reasons," she said laying a couple of portfolios in front of her. As she thumbed trough the books, the woman's face changed expressions several times from smiles to what appeared to be embarrassment. She knew some of the photos were more risqué but they still had the class of her other photographs.

"These are amazing Erikah. This is exactly what I was thinking of," she said with a smile as she was finally able to make eye contact. "What does something like this cost?"

"It varies Debbie. Depending on how many outfits you want and what kind of prints you want. If you're really interested, I can set up some sort of package deal for you. Work something out with pictures of Jen and what you want," Erikah said with a smile as they went back to her office to discuss the pricing. They worked out all the details and got an appointment set just in time for Erikah's next client.

She had two other appointments for the day. Once they were finished, mid afternoon, she grabbed her camera bag and headed out. She had decided it was too beautiful of a day to not take some pictures of the city.

###

Jake's afternoon was very similar to his morning, including the phone call from his boss checking up on him. He couldn't remember a day when he was so glad for it to be over. As he headed out of the building, he called his college friend Alex and told him, not asked him, to meet him at the quiet pub around the corner. He even warned him that it was going to be a venting situation with the day he'd had.

They sat a corner table and before they could even order their first drinks, Jake started venting about his day and how much of an ass his boss was. There seemed to be no end for the use of words Jake was using.

"You need to make the break," Alex said encouraging Jake to go on his own. Of all Jake's friends, Alex was the most supportive of the idea and didn't hide how he felt about it. He had the right, Mr. Anderson was his uncle and he knew what kind of man he was.

"I know, but it's not easy to give up the guaranteed income and the benefits. After today, I've pretty much decided I'm at the very least going to look for a different job. This one's going to give me ulcers or something," Jake said with a chuckle at the last part.

###

Erikah spent the remainder of her day taking some pictures of the people and the scenery in Central Park. It was a beautiful day which brought out a lot of people. Mothers with their children, business people with their laptops or blackberries, lovers strolling on the paths, the usual crowds. The sunlight filtering through the trees made some great photo opportunities.

She filled memory card after memory card through the day and was shocked when she filled the last one she had with her. She was in a zone and the pictures almost took themselves. It was when she was in these zones that some of her best work appeared, including the pictures that Jake had bought.

Erikah smiled as she thought of him. She had really been so consumed today she hadn't given him too much thought. She found an empty bench and sat so she could pack her camera and organize the memory sticks before heading back to her studio to see what was on them.

As if it was some sort of signal, a couple walked past her holding hands and laughing with each other. As they passed, the girl's eyes caught Erikah's; the girl bent her head slightly with a big smile as they both blushed. For some reason Erikah was happy for them, and she couldn't lie to herself, she wanted the same thing.

She smiled, seeming to be lost in her little day dream before shaking it off and finishing packing away her camera. She stood and walked back towards her studio, stopping to get a cup of coffee on her way. She walked in and couldn't help but smile when she saw Cassie in line at the counter.

She walked up to her quietly, knowing how ticklish her friends was, began tickling her ribs. Cassie let out a squeak and laughter soon followed as she turned around.

"Hey Cass, what brings you to this part of town?" she asked as they hugged.

"Hey girl, I'm just running a couple of errands for the boss. You know how that goes, oh wait, no you don't." Cassie said teasing Erikah about being her own boss.

"Got time to sit, or are you in a rush?" Erikah asked as they got to the counter and got their coffee.

"Sorry girl, I gotta keep going. But hey, if you're up to it, Roni and I are going out for a little while tonight, why don't you come along?" Cassie said really wanting her to go along.

"I don't know. I have a bunch of pictures to look at; I filled like eight memory sticks this afternoon. You know me; I can't just leave 'em sit. Next time though I definitely will go with you," Erikah said as they walked out the door and hugged goodbye.

###

After a couple of Jack on the rocks the two of them decided they needed some food. As their waitress brought their food, Jake heard the door open and looked up noticing Veronica and Cassie walk in and head to the bar. As they were waiting for their drinks, Cassie looked around the bar and caught Jake's eye, smiled and waved.

Knowing that Alex didn't know about his meeting Erikah, Jake smiled. "I'll make a bet with you," he said. "See those two women at the bar?" Alex looked up and just nodded. "I'll bet you the next round of drinks I can get them to sit with us."

"You're on buddy," Alex said with a smile, knowing Jake wasn't usual the ladies man. "I'll even make it more interesting, if you're up to it, the first one to get one of their phone numbers gets treated to dinner by the other." he said with a wink.

Jake chuckled. "Deal," was all he said as he stood and walked to the bar.

He walked up between Roni and Cassie. "Fancy seeing you two here," he said softly with a smile as he put an arm around each.

"Hey Jake, what're you doing here?" Roni asked with a smile.

"I'm just having dinner with a friend. Actually, we just made a little bet, and I'll buy your drinks for the night if you guys are willing to play along," he said with a devilish grin.

"Depends on the bet," Cassie said teasing him.

"Well, first off, we bet a round of drinks that I could get the two of you to come and sit with us, and then he upped the bet by challenging me to get your phone numbers. The winner gets treated to dinner by the loser. You game," he said with a wink.

Cassie looked at Roni and they both agreed to it. They took their drinks and followed Jake to the table, sitting in the two empty chairs and introduced themselves to Alex.

"Looks like I owe you a drink," Alex said with a questioning glance, wondering what Jake could have said to get them to come to the table.

The conversation was light as the girls did a wonderful job acting like they had never met Jake. They talked about what they did for a living, what they liked to do in their spare time, lightly touched on relationships, the usual small talk like four people who had just met. A couple of times, Alex tried to get their numbers, and the girls politely ignored his requests.

"Well ladies, I have a long day tomorrow and the Jack is starting to hit me," Jake said a little sheepishly when the evening appeared to winding down.

"That's too bad. We'd really like to get together with you again sometime Jake," Roni said with a wink as she took out a pen and a piece of paper. She wrote down her number and handed it to Cassie to do the same, which she did before handing it to Jake. 

"Sounds great, I'll definitely give you a call," Jake said as he tucked the paper into his shirt pocket, noticing the look on Alex's face. "Sorry buddy," he said with a chuckle.

"Jake, could you walk us to a taxi?" Cassie asked as he stood.

"It would be my pleasure," he said and held a hand to each of them. They each took an arm and the three of them walked out the door leaving the check for their dinner to Alex.

"That was evil ... I like that side of you," Roni said to him as they hit the sidewalk.

"I'll email him tomorrow and explain it to him," Jake said with a laugh as he flagged down a taxi for the girls. Before they got in, they each gave him a kiss on the cheek for effect.

###

As the taxi pulled away, Cassie pulled out her phone. "I absolutely have to call Erikah," she said as the phone dialed. The phone rang several times and Cassie was about to leave a cryptic voice mail when Erikah finally answered.

"Hey Cass, I thought you and Roni were out terrorizing all the single men in New York," Erikah teased.

"We are, well, were. We're calling it a night. I hope you're having fun with your pictures, because you just missed one of the most interesting nights in a long time," Cass said.

After several back and forth's between them and Erikah finally almost begging Cassie to tell her about it, Cassie spilled her story about their evening. "One of these times you'll learn to come out with us, even if it is a week night," she said teasing Erikah. 

The little recap of the night brought up a ton of questions in Erikah's mind. Did Jake hit on either of them? How much did he flirt with them? What he was like when he was with his friends? The list went on and on. Cassie put her phone on speaker much to the annoyance of the driver so Roni could help her field Erikah's barrage of questions.

"Sweetie, don't worry, he was a perfect gentleman. All he did was set his friend up. A little flirting was needed to do it, but we all knew it was for show. You know which one of us he wants to get to know better," Roni said playfully.

Erikah let out a small sigh as she hung up the phone and went back to her pictures. She soon realized though that the act was pointless. All she could think about was Jake. She was a little surprised at herself as she realized part of what she was thinking and feeling was envy. She was really wishing she had gone with the girls and had waited with her pictures.

She turned on her TV and started watching an episode of her favorite paranormal show and realized it was one she hadn't seen yet. After watching back to back episodes, she decided a long soak in the tub was in order. Her feet were a little tired from the afternoon journey in Central Park. 

She walked to her bedroom and slowly undressed, wrapping herself in her soft satin robe that was like a second skin and headed for her tub. Erikah started the water and dumped in some bath beads before turning to the mirror to pull her hair up. She then reached for her radio and turned on some soft music to help her relax. Turning off the water, she undid her robe and was about to take it off when she heard her phone ring.

She debated about answering it, but she decided she had better and retied her robe. Quickly she walked down the hall to her phone. She didn't even bother to check the caller id, just answered the call. 

###

After getting the girls into the taxi, Jake turned to start towards his apartment. Alex was just leaving the restaurant.

"Alright, how did you pull that one off?" Alex asked with a chuckle.

"I was going to wait until tomorrow to tell you, but since you asked, I knew them before they walked in the pub. I met them at the gallery opening Thursday night. They are friends of an artist I bought some work from," Jake said with a smile big enough and bright enough to light the world.

"There's something you're not telling me. I know you to well not to see it," Alex said.

"Well, this time you're wrong," Jake said, wanting to tell him everything, but not sure exactly how to explain Erikah. There was still too much of that relationship he didn't understand himself.

"I'm parked in here," Alex said as they walked to the front of the parking garage Alex's car was in. 

"Cool. Sorry about tricking you like that, but you started it with upping the bet. I owe you a dinner," Jake said as he waved goodbye and kept heading toward the bus stop to take him home.

He rounded the corner in time to see the bus pulling away from the stop and looked at his watch. He stopped on the street for a moment as he realized how late it actually was. He looked around for a taxi, not seeing one he started walking. "Good thing it's a beautiful night," he thought to himself.

Jake walked a few blocks before a taxi happened by. He flagged it down, got in, gave his address and settled in for the ride home. He stared out the window as he rode, thinking about her ... her smile, her voice, her hair, everything about her. 




They Just Click Ch. 04-05



"You getting out or what," the driver asked, pulling Jake back to reality. He was shocked when he looked out the window and saw his apartment building.

"Sorry, just thinking about something," he said as he paid the fare and headed to the door.

He got to his apartment, checked his messages and looked around. Realizing it was well clean enough for the company he was to have the next night. He sat down and turned on the TV, but found himself disinterested in any show he found. It only took a couple of seconds for him to realize why.

He picked up his phone and hesitated before he dialed, knowing there was only one thing that would allow him to sleep or think about anything else. He just about chickened out and hung up when the other end was answered.

"Hello," he heard, sensing a slight agitation in the voice.

"Hi Erikah," Jake replied simply. "I'm not interrupting anything am I?" he asked hoping she had time to talk even just a little.

"Hi Jake. No, I wasn't doing anything important," Erikah replied. Jake smiled as he heard a definite change in her voice.

"If I am, you can say so. I just wanted to call and ... um ... confirm tomorrow night. You bringing the prints over that is," he said catching himself before he said he called because he wanted to hear her voice.

"No, really, I was just thinking about soaking in the tub for a bit before bed. I spent some time out at the park and that can be hell on my feet. Yeah, I am figuring on tomorrow night still," she said hoping the smile she had didn't come through to much in her voice.

Jake debated about telling about his evening and having drinks with Cassie and Roni. He didn't know if she'd be upset or anything.

"I ..." Jake started the same time as Erikah said "So ..." at which they both laughed a little.

"You first," Erikah said with a little giggle.

"I had an idea, how about I cook us dinner tomorrow night. Nothing big, just some spaghetti or something," he said hoping she would agree.

"Sounds like a wonderful idea," Erikah said. Again, hoping the smile wasn't too obvious.

"Great, we'll figure on it then. So what were you going to say earlier?" Jake asked.

"Nothing don't worry. So, tomorrow night then," Erikah said with an almost sensual tone in her voice.

"Yes, tomorrow night. Goodnight hun," Jake said blushing lightly as he realized what had come from his mouth.

"Goodnight Jake," Erikah said softly before clicking off.

###

She hung up the line and let the phone rest in her hand. Hearing his voice had been nice. Erikah actually hadn't wanted the conversation to end. Replacing the phone she walked back into the bath and let her robe finally fall. Her body was immersed in the bubbles and her head fell back on the bath pillow. She let out a sigh and softly began to sing along with the music.

She was tempted to let her mind wander again but she decided to wait. She hoped perhaps tomorrow there would be some reality to base some fantasy on. So she laid there, singing and simply letting her body relax. Her feet were extremely thankful for the time spent in the water. Soon though the water began to cool and her hands were starting to prune. 

She dried off her body and picked her robe up. In her room she put on a soft pair of sheer white panties and a tank top. She was a little warm and didn't want to turn on her air just yet. Erikah turned off her light and slipped in her bed. Her mind, while she hadn't intended it, was filled with thoughts of Jake. She wondered what tomorrow would bring. 

###

Jake hung up the phone. Her voice was like an angel to his ear. He would now be able to fall asleep, well eventually. There was something about the girl that spoke to him. His mind kept replaying the way she said his name. It rolled off her lips like she'd been meant to say it.

He stood up from the couch and made his way to his bathroom. A quick shower, a cool one, would be the perfect way to call it a night. He let the water run on the cool side and got undressed. It was just a quick cooling off he needed. The water fell over his head, down his back. Bracing his arm on the tile he let out a breath. This woman did things to him and yet he'd not really touched her. She was fast moving under his skin.

He left the shower and dried off. Jake grabbed a pair of boxers and slipped them on. The night air was cool enough as he opened the window to his apartment. He hadn't made too much of a decision in the way of his job but he did know that it was time for a change. With that thought he crawled into bed and popped open his lap top. He wanted to quickly make some adjustments to his resume and wouldn't be able to rest until he did.

About an hour later he finished and closed it up. He was tired. Jake turned off his lights and sleep claimed him almost immediately. He dreamed though, sweet and beautiful dreams about the woman that was always on his mind.

Morning seemed to come too quickly for him. Light poured into the room and he woke with a stretch. He was something of a morning person but today he was dragging a little. The late night though had been his downfall. He moved into his kitchen, making his coffee stronger then normal. He showered, shaved and dressed in what seemed like record time. Before too long he was at the office.

He emailed a few people, letting them know he was interested in something new, perhaps even looking into a new change of work. It was so much easier with Mr. Anderson being gone. He finished doing the little tasks he had asked for and then decided to see about open his own small firm. He made a few calls and meet with a banker for a light lunch. 

Jake just wanted some information. It was always good to weigh out all of his options before just jumping with the next idea. So that's what he did. Back at the office he kept watching the clock. He had to stop off at the grocer before heading home and so he was going to leave early. 

###

Erikah slept perfectly. Her dreams of course filled with him. She woke, stretching when her phone rang. It was Cassie. They chatted briefly before deciding to go shopping mid afternoon. She wanted something new to wear to deliver her photos to Jake. She knew it was business but then there was more.

She got up, put on the news and made coffee. She began going back through some of the photo's she took the other day. There were some very good ones. She couldn't wait to see them blown up. The way she captured people with out them knowing, it was true beauty. There were also shots of the buildings, even plants and flowers. She had really done a great job.

Before too long she realized the time and went into her room and dressed. Her hair pulled up, another pair of jeans, and a cute white t shirt that had angel written on it. All this was over her favorite pair of white lace boy shorts and bra. She was always the matching type. Slipping on her shoes she walked out the door and down to the local deli to meet her friend. 

"Hey girl," Cassie said when they met up.

"You look good," Erikah said.

"Yeah, even after the night Roni and I had. So you want to grab a bite quick and then shop?"

"Sounds good."

They ate and then made there way through the crowds to a favorite small time clothing shop. They were greeted when they went in by name and began looking over the racks of clothes. Finally Erikah found it. It was a dress, nothing over the top but perfect in its simple look. 

"I've got it," she told Cassie.

"Very nice, our little boy Jake will fall over," she laughed.

"You think?" she asked wondering if she'd be coming on too strong.

"It'll be good, trust me. I can tell the guy likes you Erikah," she smiled at her friend.

So the two finished up and then parted ways. Erikah made it home and cleaned up. She showered and applied more lotion and perfume then normal. Her make up was light and airy as she always felt natural beauty was much better then the painted on look. 

She wore a black satin bra, strapless as the dress called for it and a pair of the finest lace panties. On went the dress. It was flimsy and form fitting. It was a strapless black dress that hung to her every curve and secured around her waist with a decorative belt. The dress stopped mid thigh and she would have to be careful bending but it was all worth it she thought stepping into her heels. She picked up the photos and made her way downstairs. The bellman for her apartment flagged down a cab and off she went.

###

Jake had gotten out early and picked up the things he needed. Dinner was well on its way. Everything was set on the table, candles burning. Everything looked perfect. Her looked at the clock at went to change. 

He opted for some dress pants and a nice button down shirt. He didn't want over the top but he wanted nice. He was sure Erikah would look amazing. He went back to the kitchen. Everything was ready. Dinner would be done soon and she would be here at any moment. He took a deep breath and then let it out. It was then his door rang and he buzzed up his dinner date.



They Just Click Ch. 06



The doorbell rang. Jake walked over to it, wanting to run but knew that wouldn't look good. He reminded himself to keep his cool. He couldn't help but smile though as he walked to the door knowing who was there. A slight chuckle escaped from him as he realized again what Erikah was doing to him.

He opened the door and felt his breath catch slightly when he saw her standing there. She looked amazing. There was a black dress that clung to her every curve and her hair was piled on her head neatly. Jake's breath actually caught when he noticed her carrying his ... her ... well the prints in her hands. He let his eyes travel over her body once more before he blushed slightly, realizing he was staring.

"Hey there, come on in," he said and stood aside to let her pass.

Again Jake couldn't help but watch her as she walked past him. Her hips moved slightly, her body just walked with an ease and delicate grace. He could easily image her body moving like that under him as he touched her. He shook his head and let his mind come back to the moment instead of falling off into fantasy.

"Nice place," Erikah said as she looked around the apartment. Her eyes were drawn almost instantly to the windows and the view of the skyline. "Where should I set these?" she asked with a grin when she noticed him staring again. He was cute when she caught him doing that. It was almost like he was lost in the moment. She often wondered what he was thinking.

"Let me take them," was his simple reply as he took them and leaned them against the wall. Erikah watched him moving, the way his clothes fit his body. He was a fine looking man and she smiled as she watched. 

The tension in the air was electric, thick as he turned to her, "Diner is almost ready. Would you like something to drink while I finish up? I have almost anything," he said with a smile as he moved into the kitchen.

Erikah followed him, after glancing over the rest of the living room. She thought there a few places her photos would look nice but that was up to him to decide on. She actually startled him slightly when she spoke. It had caught him of guard.

"The wine looks pretty inviting," she said from the doorway into the kitchen.

Jake poured a glass for her. "Make yourself comfortable," he said as he handed it to her then poured one for himself.

She took a sip and smiled, "Mmm, very nice." She sat on one of the bar stools by the small island in the kitchen and watched him for a moment. "Can I help with anything," she asked.

"If you want, you can get the stuff for the salad ready," Jake replied as he motioned to the lettuce and other vegetables sitting on the counter.

Erikah set her wine glass down next to the cutting board, took a knife from the block and started cutting and peeling. Every so often she ate a piece of tomato or cucumber, slipping over to Jake and giving him a piece. There was plenty of smiling going on as they put the finishing touched on dinner. She finished up ripping the lettuce when Jake looked at her strange. "The edges don't brown this way or so I've been told," she said taking a sip of her wine. "That smells wonderful," she said as he took the pan of lasagna from the oven.

"It's an ancient family secret," Jake said with a wink as he set it down to cool. He picked up the salad she had made and took it along with the oil and vinegar to the table, motioning for her to lead the way. This was the first time she saw the candle lit table. The plates were set neatly as though they were dinning at some five star restaurant. She knew he had taken a lot of time in planning dinner and that knowledge was powerful. Erikah was trying not to smile at it all but failed miserably. It even broadened when Jake slid her chair out for her.

He quickly went back into the kitchen and returned with the lasagna. Carefully he set it down and began to cut their pieces. Not sure how much she would eat he made the piece small and placed it on her plate. His slice was a little bigger then the one he cut for her but he knew his appetite was bigger. Jake refilled their wine glasses before they started eating. "I hope you like it," he said with a grin as he sat down and began to cut into his lasagna.

As they ate they talked about the days since they had last spoke and even seen each other. Erikah mentioned her studio and taking some new shots of the city, the park. She couldn't help but go a little over the top when she talked about taking photos. It really was her passion and she never failed to let it show. They laughed about the night Jake had pulled a fast one on his friend with her girlfriends. Silently though she wished she would have been there. She was really enjoying her time spent with Jake.

Jake just listened through dinner. He loved the voice that was filling his ears. The way that Erikah spoke about her photography you couldn't help but picture everything. She was vivid with detail. Her words so full of the love she had for her art. Then with the mention of him and her friends, they laughed. He actually thought he could listen to that sound forever. There was something about being with this woman that made him happy, so much more then he felt he'd ever been.

Too soon though dinner finished and they both sat sipping their wine. The talking had lulled; it was quiet and actually very nice. The silence was comfortable, not the type that you felt you needed to fill. They both had never experienced such a thing and it was nice, a welcomed experience. 

Jake stood first and began to pick up the plates and move them into the kitchen. Erikah sat there quiet, her hand on her wine glass as she felt him leave the room. She then saw a stereo and walked to it finding some music she thought would be nice to listen to. It was a soft, mellow jazz. The strains of the sax filled the room and she took her wine into the kitchen and smiled at Jake.

"Hope you don't mind."

"Not at all. I just thought I would get these cleaned up and in the washer so we could enjoy the rest of the night," he told her.

She nodded and moved to help him in putting things away. Their hands would brush against each other, or their legs would touch and each time it seemed a spark would jump between them. Neither mentioned it but inside they felt it. Before too long the dinner was cleaned up and put away and they moved into his living room.

"Mind if I ask Jake where you are planning on putting your new photos?"

"I thought here on this wall. What do you think?" 

The wall was already a little sparse and would fit the size of the photo's yet Erikah thought they would look better over the couch and move the small ones that were there over to the wall he was thinking of.

"Mind if I make a recommendation Jake?"

"Please do," he smiled liking the fact that she wanted to help him.

"Move these photos over to that wall," she said standing. "Then hang the new photos here. The light from your amazing view will offset the colors and really make them pop. If you would like I'll help you hang them?"

He just smiled. He loved the idea and moved quickly to get the tools needed. When Jake walked back in to the room he was treated to a view. Erikah was kneeling on his couch, stretching for photos. Her arms raised her dress and it pulled up her beautiful legs. The woman was an angel. He moved behind her and she didn't realize it until she stepped into his arms. Almost loosing her balance she smiled up at him and he caught her around the waist.

They looked at each other, eyes caught up in the moment and so very slowly his lips moved down to hers. There was no pressure just the soft feeling of his lips touching hers. Her hands held fast to his arms, and then his shoulders as slowly the kiss grew. Her lips moved against his, kissing him back. Time seemed to stop for them as they were so sweetly connected.

"I uh..." he said.

"Uh well..." said Erikah.

Then they both laughed. It broke what could have been a strange moment. Their hands still touched lightly. She looked up at Jake and spoke first. "I don't regret that Jake. I've wanted to kiss you for awhile."

"So have I Erikah," he said running a hand over her cheek. "Should we hang these up then?"

She nodded and they moved the photos and hung the new ones. They stood together smiling after they were hung. It really did look so much better this way Jake had to admit. He smiled at the woman next to him. He wondered if it was possible to fall so quickly for someone. He wasn't sure of his feeling yet he knew he had some and caught himself wondering if she did as well.

Jake took Erikah by the hand and led her to the couch. As she sat, he realized their glasses were almost empty. "Let me get the bottle," he said smiling at her. "Make yourself comfy."

When he returned, Erikah had done just that. She had taken her shoes off and was sitting on the couch with her legs tucked up, her head resting back. Jake bent and started to fill her glass. He couldn't resist and bent a little further wanting to kiss her. It was a great idea except that in the process, the wine bottle shifted and poured out onto her dress.

"Oh shit. I am so sorry," Jake said when Erikah let out a little gasp as the cool liquid soaked into her dress. "You know, I'm never this clumsy. With you though I'm all ... I don't know ... flustered," he said as his cheeks matched the color of the wine. That brought a giggle from her.

"At least it's on a black dress. It would have been really bad on something lighter," Erikah said with a smile. It wasn't going to be a big deal, she herself had done worse. Jake was a little surprised at her reaction, he had been thinking that she'd be more upset about it.

"Let's get that wiped up at least," he said and held his hand to her. They made their way through the apartment and into the bathroom. He found her a towel and handed it to her while he wet a wash cloth.

"How bad is it?" he asked.

"It's not ruined Hun, but I think I'm going to need something to put on. This is pretty wet and should dry out." she said, looking at herself in the mirror.  "What do you have that a girl could wear?"

"I'll see what I can find," he said leaving her and going to his bedroom. Not sure what she might want, he decided to lay a couple of different options on the bed. Some sweats, one of his shirts, some shorts and a t-shirt. 

"That shirt will work great," Erikah said from the doorway, startling Jake.

Erikah looked around the room as she walked deeper into it. In doing so she realized that he had the same view of the sky line from this room. Though he had the curtains drawn they were sheer enough that she could picture lying on the bed being held by him as they looked out over the city. The simple thought made her smile.

"You have to let me pay for getting the dress cleaned," Jake said apologetically, snapping her back to reality.

"Don't worry about it. We can figure that out later," she said with a smile as she walked up to him, stood on her toe and kissed him on the cheek. "Unzip me please," she asked as she turned. 

Jakes hand shook a little as he unzipped her dress for her. He resisted the urge to run his hands down the smooth skin of her back as he bared her soft skin. "I'm going to go wipe off the couch," he said and quickly left the room. He closed the door behind him, and avoiding eye contact with her. He didn't want to betray the feelings that were blazing through his mind.

Erikah giggled softly at him as he quickly left the room. She stepped out of her dress and took the shirt from the bed. She first held it to her nose, breathing in the smell. Even though it was clearly freshly cleaned, she could still smell him on it. She closed her eyes softly and took in the aroma for a moment before slipping it on, leaving the top couple of buttons undone.

He wiped the wine from the leather of the couch. Jake was trying to let his mind cool and not imagine the woman in the next room slipping into one of his button down dress shirts. She would look amazing he knew. 

"Maybe I should take care of this tonight, we don't want you to spill any more of it," she said with a wink as she handed him his glass having come back into the room.

The sight of her in his shirt left him speechless. Jake could only smile and nod as he took his glass from her. Well, that and stare that is. "How is it that a beautiful woman can make even the simplest shirt look amazing?" he asked when he regained some sort of composure.

"We're good that way," she said with a wink as she took a sip before sitting down on the couch again. She felt herself relaxing more around him. Her legs curled up under her, and while most of her was hidden her legs seemed not to ever end.

Jake walked over to the french doors that led to the balcony and opened them. They were high enough that the sounds of the city below didn't make it too loud. "It's such a beautiful night, I though I'd let some fresh air in. It's not to cold is it?" 

"Not at all. In fact ..." Erikah said as she stood and took Jakes hand. She led him outside onto the balcony. It was only then she saw that the balcony extended past the bedroom. It sent all sorts of beautiful images through her head.

They stood by the rail, looking out over the city. The music from the stereo filtered through the air between them. After a few moments, Erikah turned to him and took his wine glass from him. "Dance with me," she said softly as she laid her hands on his chest.

He put his hands around her waist as her head rested against him. The smell of her hair drifted up between them as they began to sway to the music. Her fingers found their way between the buttons of his shirt and traced little lines on his warm skin. Carefully she undid the top couple of buttons; she wanted to actually feel her palm touching him.

Jake bent his head slightly and kissed the top of her head as he moved his hands down just enough that they rested on the top of her butt cheeks. He could feel the muscles contract in her as they moved. They swayed together, their bodies brushing against each other. 

Erikah lifted her head and looked into his eyes as her hand moved from his chest, over his shoulders and into his hair. She pulled his lips to hers in a deep kiss that they both had wanted for so long. Their tongues touched, caressed each other. The taste was so sweet; it fed the kiss, prolonging it. That was until Jake felt Erikah begin to shiver, whether it was from the cold or him he wasn't sure but took her by the hand and back into the apartment.



They Just Click Ch. 07



They walked back into the house quietly. Erikah feeling still slightly chilled as they sat down. Jake left her for only a moment to bring a light blanket to her lap. She smiled up to him and patted the seat next to her, wanting him close. She watched as he came around the table with their wine glasses and sat down handing her the one she had been drinking from.

"Tell me Jake how work is going? I remember you having problems," she said.

"Yeah, things still aren't good. I still feel as though I'm doing grunt work for him. I've been there for years and done everything I've been asked. For whatever reason though he just doesn't let me do any designing."

"I'm sorry Jake. I know it's a tough choice but you are talented. You deserve to have it appreciated," she said with a smile.

He smiled back at her and they sat there for a moment in silence. Again it was comfortable, not strange or weird. Erikah was the first to break it as she was looking as some of the photo's they had moved on his wall. They were actually pretty good. She wondered who had taken them.

"So do you mind if I ask you something?"

"What's that Erikah?"

"These photographs over here can you tell me who took them?"

He looked over her shoulder and smiled seeing that they were ones he had done. He hadn't thought they were anything special, just simple photo's of the city. They showed the architecture he had fallen in love with. The buildings that had made him want to go into the career he had chosen. 

"I did, why?"

"Really? They are very good. The light, the use of shadow, it all plays so well together. The fact they are black and white just add to the elegance of it."

"You really think they are that good? I was just walking through the city taking shots and that was it. I came home with these."

"Yeah they are great," she said getting off the couch to really look at them. "Hey would you like to go and take some photos with me?"

"Would I? That would be amazing," he said with a smile almost a mile long.

"Wonderful. Maybe tomorrow if you aren't busy."

"No problem," he said walking behind her, resting his hands on her hips. "It seems we are out of wine. Would you like something else?"

"What do you have Jake?"

"Uh let's see," he said walking over to the very small bar he had. "There's Captain, Vodka, JD..."

"I'll take a little jack over some ice," she said moving back to the stereo and finding something else to listen to. It seemed his taste in music matched her own. It was varied and that was something that caused her to smile. She found one she thought would be nice, mellow and something they could still here and talk over.

"Here you are Erikah," he said handing her he drink. "Nice choice," he said with regard to the music choice.

All she did was smile as they stood in his living room. She took a sip of her drink and let the hard liquor slip down her throat. She was having a wonderful time, talking with Jake, learning more about him. Just then his phone rang and he moved to the table to get it. Wanting to give him some privacy she moved outside. The cool air chilled her bare legs but she didn't mind. 

Jake answered his phone as he watched the beauty move outside. She was something special that was obvious. His boss was on the line and he let out a sigh. He answered it and proceeded to hear his boss tell him things that needed done in the morning. Easy things that the lower paid, the interns could do. It was enough; he told him that it wasn't going to happen. Jake let his former boss know that he would no longer be working for him and that he'd be in the morning to clean out this desk. There was a lot of hustle and bustle on the other end but all Jake did was wish the man a good night. It made him feel good.

He walked out to join his company on the deck. The moon shown down on her face and made it somehow made her glow even more. The fact she was there in his shirt, her long legs bare and open to his gaze made him want to groan. In his eyes Erikah was perfection.

"Why are you staring?"

"Uh sorry ... No wait I'm not. You are beautiful Erikah," he said as his lips fell upon hers. He kissed her lightly, tasting her. Nothing heavy, nothing forced. He held himself back because he didn't want to frighten her with his desire. 

Her hands rested on his shoulders, their lips just moving, parting, tasting, and a gentle back and forth. The kiss ended just as softly as it began. Erikah let her head rest on his shoulder and chest. Her sigh was soft and like sweet music to his ears. 

"That was my boss. I told him I was through with working for him. I'm on my own now."

"Jake, you will do just fine. I have this feeling about you. It is only a matter of time before the rest of the world see's your talent. Besides, I think you could also have a chance at a career in photography."

He loved her.

Wait ... love ... did he? Was that the feeling he had for her? Was it the reason he couldn't get her out of his head?

"With you as my teacher I'm sure I'd do great things," he said with a smile. He was rocked with the current emotions moving through him.

The stood there swaying like that, dancing in their own little world for awhile. All of a sudden rain began to fall down on them, around them. Erikah began laughing as did Jake. He pulled her with him back inside and closed the doors. She was damp and the light color of the shirt did nothing to hide what was underneath. His eyes were immediately drawn to the dark, firm nubs standing out from her breasts. He fought off the overwhelming urge to taste them; instead he pulled her to him.

He couldn't help it; he kissed her wet lips again. This kiss was deeper, harder. His passion and desire was evident in it. Erikah didn't mind, she welcomed it. He wanted her and that knowledge was intoxicating.

Then it broke just as suddenly. They were both breathing harsh. He turned and headed to the bathroom and grabbed a towel for her. He took a few deep breaths, getting his body back under control. After a minute or two he made his way back into the living room. 

At first he didn't see her. He was just about to call her name when he found Erikah asleep on the couch. She must have just dozed off he thought. She looked like an angel laying there. He didn't want to wake her so he took their glasses and put them in the sink. Then he went to his bed, pulled the blankets down and took one of the pillows with him. Then with great ease he scooped up his sleeping beauty and while she was softly snoring laid her down and then covered her up. 

He turned off the lights, closed the door and went to lie on his couch. His mind thinking of her and of what he discovered tonight. The quickness of it scared him but then again sometimes it was like that, it just hits, he thought as he drifted off.

Jake woke earlier then usual. As he stretched out on the couch he remembered Erikah was there. It made him smile. He was becoming used to the idea of her in his life. Last night it had shocked him, this morning he seemed at ease with it. He got up from the couch and decided to start the coffee.

Then as quiet as he could be he decided to shower. The water ran warm and he stepped under it soothing his aching muscles from sleeping on the couch. It obviously wasn't made for overnight sleeping. The water felt so good to him. He leaned his arm on the tile and let it fall over his body. His mind kept picturing the woman that was currently in his bed.

The way his shirt had been laying over her frame. Last night with the rain he remembered how it had molded to her chest. Her nipples hard hardened and his eyes had never seen something so tempting. He had wanted to taste them through the wet fabric and feel them harden even more under his touch. The idea of it now had him hard and aching.

He let out a frustrated sigh. He wasn't going to get the release he wanted, what he craved unless he was touching her. Anything else would just be a waste. He took his shampoo and washed his hair and then his body. He finished and dried off, wrapping a towel around his waist. He needed to go back into his room for clothes.

Opening the door slowly he saw her still sleeping. She looked so beautiful in the morning light. The way the sun shown in on her was perfection. He just stood there and watched her. Then he saw her open her eyes. She looked up at him standing there in a towel and smiled.

"Good morning," she whispered huskily.

"Morning beautiful," he said.

"I'm sorry I fell asleep on you," she said rolling over and stretching.

"Don't worry about it. You looked so tired I just let you sleep."

"Thank you for giving up your bed. I'll leave so you can get dressed," she said getting out of bed.

Jake watched her and when she neared him grabbed her hand and kissed her briefly. She smiled and went to the bathroom while he found something to wear. He ended up picking some jeans and a sweater, nothing fancy. By the time he made back to the kitchen there was a delicious smell coming from it. 

Erikah was cooking. She had made some pancakes and bacon. The smell was absolutely divine. He heard his stomach grumble as he walked in and took in more of the aroma. He grabbed a mug and watched the woman move through the kitchen as though she belonged there. 

"I hope you didn't mind. I though we would have breakfast together."

"Nope, I don't' mind at all," he said with a sip of coffee.

She was making some toast and putting peanut butter on it. It made him laugh. He had never known anyone else that did that but him. He was picky too, only could eat Jiff. He shook his head as they sat at the table.

"What's funny," she asked.

"The peanut butter never thought I'd meet someone else that ate it this way."

"I'm picky too, good thing you had Jiff," she smiled and took a bite of breakfast.

Jake nearly choked on his bacon when she said that. The woman was just too perfect for him. He shook his head and smiled as she stared at him wondering what was going on in his head.

"I'm picky too. That's why I laughed," he told her.

They ate in almost complete silence. It was nice to share the morning with her. Soon enough though she had finished and decided to go put her dress back on. She changed and while that happened Jake cleaned up the table and did the few dishes. The house looked normal again and she was back at his side.

"So what are our plans? I'm sure you need to clean out your desk and I know I need to change," she said.

"That will work, you go home and change and then meet me at your studio. Should be plenty of time for me to get the few things I have at the office."

He grabbed his keys. She grabbed her purse. Then they were off. They parted ways with a kiss; both of their minds thinking about each other.

***

Jake's boss tried to get him to stay but he wouldn't listen. He made up his mind and that was it. He was tired of being taken for granted and the way his boss was still coming after him. It meant something, it meant he was good enough and he could do it. It made his decision even better.

He knew with Erikah by his side he could do anything. Even if everything didn't work out the way he hoped it would professionally, he knew it wouldn't matter as long as she was there.

***

Erikah got home slipped the dress off and the remaining pieces of clothes and sighed. She had a wonderful night with Jake. He kissed her and she had melted every time. She had even dreamed of him. He filled her with such a longing and passion. She smiled as she turned on the shower and stepped into it. 

Her hands washed her body, her hair. She caught herself imagining they were his hands moving over her, cleansing her. He had wonderful hands, strong and so sure. She wanted to feel them on her skin. She turned off the water and dried off. She decided on casual, so after putting on her pink bra and panty set she grabbed her jeans and sweater. 

***

They both got to her studio at the same time. She smiled, he beamed. 

"Let's set your box here and I'll get my camera and we'll tour the city together," she smiled at him.

Jake was a fool, a smiling fool. He couldn't help it. He was finally getting his life on the right path. He had taken back control and things seemed to be going wonderful. He watched Erikah grab a few things then they left her studio. His hand fell in with hers and she latched onto it. She was thinking she didn't ever want to let go.



They Just Click Ch. 08



Jake saw a building that he thought would make a good addition to his library and reached to take his old camera out of its bag to snap a picture. He slipped the strap around his neck and was about to focus when he heard Erikah gasp slightly.

"What?" he asked simply as he saw the look on her face.

"Where did you get that camera?" she asked, hoping the question sounded the way she intended it to. She couldn't help but stare at it.

"This old thing? I found it in a pawn shop while I was in college. Why do you ask?" He was a little embarrassed when he thought about what type of camera might be in her bag.

"Jake, we need to find you a new camera," she said with a smile. "For two reasons," she quickly added hoping she didn't sound too pretentious. "First, that camera is worth a lot of money. There weren't many like it made. Second, a new one would take much better pictures and if we're going to use them as a selling tool for your new business, we need the best pictures we can get."

Jake was about to rebuff her comments a little when it hit him. She had said we. Then another thought hit him, could she be feeling the same things about him as he was about her? "We? Does that mean you want to help me get things going?" he said almost feeling teenish.

"I will do anything I can to help you hun," Erikah said with a smile that could melt an iceberg as she rested her hand on his arm. "Here, try mine. I'll show you how to use it," she said as she pulled her camera out of its bag.

Jake wasn't sure as she handed him her camera. "A Nikon D3 hu? You don't mess around do you," he said with a wink knowing this was definitely her territory.

"Nothing but the best my dear," she said with a wink as she slipped the strap over his neck. "Now, here's how this bad boy works ...." she said and showed him the basics of the camera.

Jake knew she was right about his old camera as soon as he looked into the display and saw the picture of the building. "I hope you aren't expecting this back to soon," he said with a smile as they started to walk again.

Through out the day Erikah showed him some different techniques, some he had known about form his class in college but had never used, some new.

****

When they got back to her studio, Erikah showed Jake around a little. When they got to her office, Erikah excused herself for a moment, telling Jake to feel free to look around. Jake wondered around the studio taking in the beauty of Erikah photos. 

He walked into a side room and flipped on the switch. He saw some portfolios on the table and glanced through them. He opened another and his jaw dropped slightly. Erikah's soft hand suddenly laid on his stopping him from looking at any more of the portfolio.

"Not yet," she said with a grin as she felt a little color burn in her cheeks.

He jumped a little at her touch and at her voice. He hadn't heard her enter the room. "Sorry, I didn't hear you come in," he said before bending slightly and kissing her softly on the lips. A soft sigh left both of them as they smiled at each other. He couldn't help but wonder about the pictures she didn't want him to see.

"Hungry?" he asked simply as his hands fell to her hips, hers resting on his chest.

"Let's get some take out. I want to see how we did today," she said with a smile.

They spent the better part of the evening in front of her computer looking at and editing the pictures they had both taken. "I think we need a date to go camera shopping. Even for an amateur like me, I can see the difference," he said with a smile.

The portfolio though seemed to stay in his mind. From the brief glimpse he had of the pictures, the woman in lingerie, the artistry of the photograph, everything about it was beautiful. Yet there was something about her that seemed familiar, he couldn't quite put his finger on why that was.

He tried to let it go, but the images kept popping into his mind causing him to start running through the different women he had met or seen. He wanted to place the body with a face but no matter whom he thought of it never seemed to fit. 

"Jake? ... Where'd you drift off to?" he heard, Erikah's voice pulling him back to reality.

"I'm sorry, just thinking about something," he said as he felt the color run to his cheeks. "What were you asking me hun?"

"The picture ... what do you think?" Erikah said with a bit of a laugh.

The picture he thought to himself, his mind immediately went back to the portfolio, the photo of a beautiful leggy woman dressed in a sexy yet classy piece of lingerie, before he looked at the one on the screen. "When did you take that?" he asked as he looked at the picture. 

It was a profile picture of him with his camera. He was looking through the lens, getting the camera into focus just as she had snapped it.

"A woman never reveals her secrets my dear," she said with a wink and a giggle.

After they had finished editing Jake helped Erikah clean up from their dinner. They then walked hand in hand to the door. Both were smiling at the contact, so simple yet so sweet.

"Just a sec ..." Erikah said and scampered off into the back of the studio. Jake picked up his box of office stuff and waited for her to return with a smile on his face.

When she returned she was holding a portfolio to her chest. She wrapped her arm around his, rested her head on his shoulder and said, "I'm ready."

"I have my car here, can I give you a ride home?" he said as he put his free hand on her hip, turning her to face him.

"That would be great," Erikah said smiling up at him and giving him a quick kiss.

****

Jake drove the few blocks to her apartment building by her directions, even though he was finding it very hard to concentrate with her sitting next to him. He kept looking at her, watching the street lights light up her face through the window. The soft glow of the moon filtering through the windshield made her almost glow. She was beautiful.

Finally he had arrived at her building. He got lucky and found the perfect spot almost right in front of where she lived. Quickly he got out and went around the car to open the door for her. She smiled taking his hand as she stepped from the very low sports car.

Together they walked hand in hand to her door. Jake held out his other hand wanting the keys to the door. Instead Erikah turned to him.

"I'd invite you up Jake, but I have an early appointment tomorrow and it's already past my bed time," she said softly as her hands went around his neck. "I hope you don't mind," she said with a small kiss.

"It's fine Erikah, don't worry about it. Besides, I should probably get home too so I can start to figure things out in the morning," he said, even knowing he wouldn't sleep. It was then he realized then that her hands were empty.

"You forgot your portfolio in the car. Wait here, I'll go get it."

She stopped him. "I didn't forget it hun. Take a look at it. Just remember, I only show that to very special people," she smiled into his eyes. "As a matter of fact, Roni is the only one other than some perspective clients that I've shown it to. Cass and Nat haven't even seen it." Erikah could feel a bit of blush rising, as she was looking up into his eyes.

"I don't know what to say. You're very special to me too Erikah," he said as he bent his head to kiss her. 

Even though they had shared many kisses this one was different, unlike one he'd ever felt before. As their tongues met, the waves of electricity shot through him and he swore sparked out the tips of his toes. He pulled her tighter to his body, feeling the curves of her press to him. His hands moved down over her back, holding her closer. They both moaned softly.

Jake pulled back and looked into her eyes. "If I don't go now, I might not go at all," he said softly and stepped away. His hand trailed along her arm and across her hand as he descended the steps. 

"I had a great time today," he said with a wink just before their fingers separated. He walked to his car and turned to look at her before he got in. She blew him a kiss to which he smiled brightly at. He climbed in and watched her turn the door to her building and enter it. It was only then that he drove off.

***

The door closed and she made her way to her apartment. She was all smiles. The day couldn't have gone better. Erikah had never felt so happy. She was nervous about the portfolio but she trusted Jake to see the art in it. He would love it. Besides that once he got to the end of it there was actually a photo showing it was her, not some other model. He'd be surprised.

She walked in, saw that she had a message and hit the play button. It was Roni, she was rambling on. Erikah just smiled. Her friends were sometimes high maintenance. She guessed that was why she fit in so well. She was on the opposite end of that spectrum. She was calm, down to earth, never in a rush. It was the way most artists were.

She let out a sigh and took off her clothes and ran the water in the shower. The water ran warm, more to the side of hot. She stepped in and let it fall over her. Her head tilted back, her hair under the water as it fell. She washed, the sent of sweet vanilla filling the air. She stood under the water, letting her body relax and mellow. Her arm rested on the tile, her head resting on it. She turned off the water and dried off. Then, without putting anything on, slipped into bed and off to sleep and dream.

***

Jake kept looking down at the book on his passenger seat. He wanted to look through it but knew better. He would wait. He drove home in near record time. Grabbing the book and his camera bag he went up to his place. Glancing at his machine he saw a few messages. 

Playing them he heard his former boss mumbling about coming back, Jake knew better. Then there was a message from Alex, he wanted to get together again. He walked into the kitchen, grabbed a beer and went to his room. He sat back on his bed and stared at the book in his hands. Hell, he was a little nervous.

Opening it he saw a beauty. A woman dressed in the prettiest lingerie. His eyes feasted on her body. She was a sight. Her curves were soft and perfect. He wanted to know who she was but there was no face. It had been cropped out, like she didn't want to be seen. 

He moved through each page paying special attention to see if it was the same woman that graced each page. The photos were pure delight. The colors, the softness, the way the light filtered over the subject. It all worked so splendid in the pictures. Nearing the end Jake let out a sigh. He felt like he knew the woman he was looking at, really knew her.

The last page nearly made him groan out loud. It was her, Erikah. She was dressed in this red lace and satin set. There were stocking and garters, heels and her. This whole book was her. Jake swallowed, he couldn't believe it. Her beauty was perfection. She was exquisite. He couldn't shake her from his mind, he didn't want to. He just put the book next to him in bed, undressed down to his boxers and lay there, staring at her. Sure he felt a tad foolish but she was beginning to mean so much to him. His eyes drifted closed and he let sleep came him, he dreamt, sweet seductive dreams, vivid ones of a sultry lady in red.



They Just Click Ch. 09



Erikah woke the next morning after one of the best night's sleep she'd had in quite a while. Not sure what brought it on, but definitely not complaining either. She wanted to be on her A game today with the photo shoot. She felt some sort of connection with Debbie and wanted her photos to turn out perfect.

She slipped from the bed and headed for the shower, letting the hot water run over her, rinsing the last remnants of sleep from her face. When she closed her eyes, the first thing that popped into her head was a vision of Jake. The memory of kiss they had shared the night before soon followed.

"That kiss was different," she thought to herself as her hands washed her body, following the gentle curves. She tried to fight the urge, but the combined memories of his face and the kiss took over and her fingers toyed with her nipples bringing them to their full hardness. 

Erikahs hands moved over her body, stopping at the soft folds of her pussy. She let one finger lightly rub the nub it found there. Her breath quickened as she rubbed harder, she heard herself whisper his name as her body neared the release her mind craved. The whisper became almost a scream when she plummeted over the edge of orgasm.

She rested with her head on her arm against the wall of the shower as her legs regained their strength. "What was different about that kiss," she said softly. "More care, more passion, more ...." she thought. "Oh shit," she said softly again as she realized what it might be, what it probably was.

She let the water run for a moment more before stepping out and toweling off. She looked at the clock. "7:45, plenty of time yet," she thought as she wrapped the towel around herself and walked to the kitchen to start her coffee. She saw she had some missed calls, but no new messages. She scrolled through the caller ID and soon realized that Jake had called during the night, but hung up without leaving a message. She decided to talk to him about it later to see if there was anything special he had wanted.

She quickly went to the bedroom and slipped into some comfortable clothes. Simple jeans and a hot pink t-shirt with little white hearts on it, covering a hot pink satin and lace bra and thong set. She slipped on her favorite "comfy" shoes, pulled her hair back into a pony tail and applied just a hint of makeup before heading back for her coffee and out the door.

****

Jake woke several times during the night and found himself lying in bed with his hand resting on the cover of Erikahs portfolio. A couple of times he even dialed her number, only needing to hear her voice. He felt a little strange, almost like a teenager, when he dialed and hung up after only a couple of rings.

When he finally woke in the morning, he felt surprisingly refreshed even though he didn't think he had slept that well. He felt his hand resting on the portfolio again and realized it wasn't a dream. He slowly looked through it again, taking in every little detail of the pictures.

When he got to the last one, the one that showed Erikahs face, he stared into her eyes as his fingers gently traced the line of her cheek, down her neck and shoulders, imagining what it would feel like to touch her like that. His body began to react to the thought.

Jake closed his eyes and laid his head against the pillow, the image of her burned into his mind, the memory of their kiss last night accompanying it. It was different, but he couldn't figure out what it was. 

His mind flipped through different images of her as his hand rubbed the growing bulge in his boxers. Each time he saw either her intense smile or the one picture from the book, he rubbed a little harder. He finally gave in and slipped his hand inside his boxers, massaging his tightening balls and stroking his hardening cock.

His mind locked on that picture as his strokes intensified. He realized he was whispering her name as his hand moved. He felt his body tighten just as his voice called out her name as his body released a stream of cum into boxers.

He ran his other hand through his hair as he opened his eyes and realized what it was about the kiss that was so different, what it was about Erikah that was different. "Oh my god," he said with a chuckle. "What to do now?"

He rolled over and looked at the clock "7:45, I suppose I better get to it," he said and pulled himself out of bed after one last glance at the open book on his bed. He started his coffee before taking a quick shower. The hot water flowing over him was just what he needed this morning.

He stepped from the shower, toweled off, and headed to the bedroom. He slipped a pair of khaki shorts on with a print board shirt and walked bare foot through the apartment to get his coffee. He took a cup with him down to his mail box to get his paper and returned to a ringing phone.

It was his former boss. With some hesitation he answered it and was bombarded with Anderson chastising him about not returning any of the phone calls the day before. "Mr. Anderson, I don't work for you anymore and if I don't want to return your calls, that is my choice. With that, please don't call again. Good day sir," he said and clicked off the phone as he sat at his desk and started to flip through the paper.

****

Erikah got to her studio in time to check a few emails and start some coffee before Debbie walked in for her appointment. She could tell immediately the woman was nervous and did what she could to calm her nerves.

"We'll take the pictures you want, and only what you want. After, you can decide what you want to do with them. I promise you, no one will ever see them without you knowing it," Erikah said with a smile, clearly helping Debbie relax a little.

Erikah took Debbie into the back and showed her where she could change before helping her pick out the first couple of outfits. She then got her equipment setup while Debbie changed.

As the photo shoot went along, Debbie clearly relaxed more as the two women got more comfortable with each other. To the point that she was enjoying having her picture taken in the sexy lingerie she had brought with her.

After the shoot Erikah waited for Debbie to change back into her street clothes. "I think that went pretty well," she said with a smile as Debbie joined her. "I'll let you know when I have the pictures ready for you to look at hun," she said as Debbie hugged her and thanked her.

As her client walked out the door, Erikah looked at her clock and had a devilish idea. She grabbed her camera bag and her purse and headed out, locking the door behind her. She had one stop to make on the way to her final destination.

**

Jake sat at the desk in his apartment, contemplating who he should call first to announce his professional independence. Alex was first on the list of course, being his biggest supporter for all these years. The fact that he was Mr. Anderson's nephew only added to it. 

"It's about damn time you pulled your head out," Alex said with a laugh after Jake said hello. His uncle knew him and Jake were friends and had asked him to try to convince Jake to return to the firm.

"Don't bother, there's no way in hell it'll ever happen. I'll starve to death first," Jake said, only half joking. They talked for a bit about Jakes plans and general chit chat. They hung up after agreeing to meet for drinks on Friday if neither had plans by then

He was about to reach for the phone to call Johnathan and tell him when it rang, startling him slightly. The voice on the other end sounded a little familiar, but he couldn't quite place it. The man announced he was a friend of Johnathans and had gotten Jakes number from him. He was doing a new night club a couple of blocks from his gallery and loved what he had done there and would like to meet with him about doing the club.

They set up a meeting for Friday afternoon and both men clicked off with Jake thanking him for the call. As he hung up, his other hand was already dialing Johnathans number.

"Johnathan I owe you a dinner," Jake said into the phone before telling him who it was.

"Well I never dreamed you would be inviting me for a little one on one time," Johnathan said, knowing Jake wasn't implying anything.

"I just spoke with Andrew. I'm meeting with him tomorrow afternoon to talk about his club," Jake said, drawing praises from Johnathan. 

They talked for a few minutes before Jakes door bell rang "I gotta go my friend, someone's at the door," he said and hung up after promising him he'd call as soon as the meeting was over to fill him in.

****

Jake walked to the door wondering who could be there. He opened the door and his breath caught in his chest as Erikah smiled at him.

"Well don't just stand there silly, this bag is heavy," she said and winked as he stepped aside to let her in.

"To what do I owe the surprise?" he asked as he followed her into the kitchen.

"I come bearing food. I thought maybe we could have lunch ..." she said, but her words were stopped short as Jake stepped behind her, softly putting his hands on her hips and his lips on her neck.

She turned to face him, slipping her hands around his neck, pulling him to her in a deep kiss. They tasted each other, devouring with lips and tongues. It was like they hadn't just spent a day together. The hunger that hit them was strong. Jake was the one to pull back first.

"So you were saying something about lunch," he said while moving his hand to cup her cheek.

"Um, yes. I brought some things to make our very own pizza. Are you game," she said looking into his eyes, licking her lips.

The attraction between the two was surrounding them. Erikah let her hand run over his collar bone and then between them, moving over the planes of his shirt. This was different then any other moment between them. She wanted him, wanted to feel him. Just then there was a noise coming from her pocket. She stepped away from Jake with a sigh and answered it.

"Hello. Hey Roni, what's going on? Oh really. Well when is it? Hang on a second," she put her hand over the phone and whispered to Jake. "Are busy Saturday?"

He looked at her with a smile, "No I'm not."

"Come with me to a party?" Jake nodded that he would. "Yes Roni I'll be there with my date," she winked at him. She hung up soon after as Jake was already in the kitchen emptying her bag.

"Pizza I see," he said.

"Our very own too, I bought all sorts of goodies to top it with too."

She took out the cheese, mushrooms, tomatoes, fresh herbs, and premade dough. She laid it all out and began cleaning it while Jake got out a pizza brick to cook it on. She handed him the fresh herbs and let him begin chopping those while she cleaned the mushrooms. 

"You know this was a great surprise," he said giving her a little nudge.

"I thought it would be a welcomed break for you," she said.

They talked about his new prospective client. She was very happy for him. Things seemed to be working out. Her business was as good as ever, she had met Jake, he had made a life changing choice and it worked. She smiled at him and tossed one of the clean mushrooms his way.

"Hey," he said with a laugh.

"Opps, must have slipped," she winked.

Slipped, Jake thought, my ass. He aimed the mushroom to the middle of her chest and tossed it while she went back to cleaning. It hit and then fell between her soft mounds. He turned quickly and began to whistle.

"Why you," she whispered. It was war.

She got out the pizza dough and laid it out and began putting on the sauce. She wasn't sure how he would react but it didn't matter. He would laugh and beside they would get to clean up. She took the spatula she had been using and aimed it, then let it fly. It hit his cheek and she laughed.

Jake turned around and caught her red handed. He took the sauce and spatula from her and decided to get his own revenge. By the time they finished food seemed to be all over their clothes. They did manage to make a pizza and get it into the oven.

"Look at the mess you made," he told her.

"Me, I think you had a hand in it," she laughed.

Jake thought he'd never seen a cuter sight. She was covered in food and pizza sauce but her smile was still as bright and light up the room. She was beautiful. He leaned into her, held her tightly around the waist and pressed his lips to hers. 

The kiss was like the one earlier, filled with passion. There was that underlying need and desire there. Tongues moved, tasted, toyed with each other. Their hands moved, seeking out new places to touch. Jake was the one to break the kiss. He rested his head on hers and let out a breath.

"You make me crazy," he whispered.

"Only the best kind of crazy I hope," she answered.

"Yes, I think though you could use a shower," Jake told her.

"So could you," she replied and began walking to the bathroom.

Jake was left there wondering if he was to join her or wait his turn. He ran his hand over his face, steeped forward then stopped. He hated not knowing and being so unsure of himself.

"You coming Jake," he heard over running water.



They Just Click Ch. 10



"You coming Jake," he heard over running water.

Well that seemed to make his decision a heck of a lot easier. He smiled as he walked toward the bathroom. He didn't realize how much he wanted her until that moment. Being this close was driving him slowly crazy.

His breath caught in his chest as he saw her figure in the shower. She was a true beauty. The curve of her hips, the way her breasts seemed to beg for his hands, his touch. Jake felt that familiar tug on his groin. 

He began removing his mess of clothes. He was finally naked when he moved to the glass stall. Opening the door he stepped in with a smile. She had yet to turn and look his way but he certainly spent time to devour her with his gaze.

***

Erikah had called out to Jake, offering the chance to further what they had with this shower. She wondered if he'd take her up on it. After giving him her portfolio last night she hoped he would. Her eyes closed and she let her hands travel up over her wet body. 

She rinsed her hair, running her fingers through it and turned around. It was then she saw him. Her eyes ran over his form. She knew from the beach that he had a great body but hell the man looked good. She blushed as she gazed upon all of him.

"You decided to join me," she asked in a voice that was rough.

"How could I resist with such a tempting sight," he said as his hands closed around her waist.

His head leaned down; his lips touched hers softly at first. It was a slow exploration. His tongue began teasing and tasting her. Jake couldn't believe how perfect she was for him. His hands moved down cupping her soft and perfect ass. He pressed his hard body against hers.

Erikah groaned as he kissed her. Her hands moved into his hair, running through it. The touch of him was electric. It stirred something deep inside her. That fire pooled in her stomach, that burning furthered when his hard length pressed against her. She turned them, letting him under the water. 

It fell over them both, droplets clinging to their skin. Jake pressed his lips along her jaw, down her neck. He lingered over her collar bone giving her just a little nip. Erikah let out a moan, a soft whisper of yes. He moved lower, licking at the droplets as he pushed her back against the wall of the shower.

He reached her perfect breasts, so perky. Her nipples were already hardening, expecting his touch. His tongue ran over first the left, then the right. He heard her sharp intake of breath, her hands clutching at his head. He couldn't stop, he was like a man starved, only she could quench his need.

He began sucking, tasting her. Her nipple puckered and hardened even more under his touch. He rolled the other between his fingers. Jake was playful, he nipped and teased. Then he would suck deep, make her almost whimper. Then he switched to the other breast. He paid the same delicate attention to it as he had with the other. When he felt he'd tortured her enough he moved back up, kissing her lips again. 

Erikah's hands slipped between them, covering the length of him. She moved on his cock slowly at first, testing him. She heard his groan against her lips and knew that she had him. She was quick to turn and let him feel the cool of the shower tile as she kissed along his chest.

She made her way down, finally reaching what she wanted. Her tongue slipped out, flicking over the head of his cock. She saw him take a deep breath. Then she ran it along his length as she looked up at him. 

He was hard and yet his skin was soft. The taste of him went straight to her head. She closed her lips around him finally and took him deep inside the warmth of her mouth. Her hands pulled him into her as she moved on him slowly. Erikah heard his groan, felt his hand tangle in her hair. She continued her teasing him, sucking him into her mouth, feeling him hitting the back of her throat before she pulled out. 

"Yes Erikah," he groaned, it was too much.

She could feel the tension in him. It was building, ever closer to the edge. Suddenly she was up against the wall. She looked at him, a wicked smile on her lips. He kissed her; it was hard, deep, and full of passion. He lifted her, positioning her right above him when there was a loud beeping. 

Jake shook his head. "What the hell was that," he thought to himself. He lowered her back to the floor and opened the door. That's when he smelt it. The pizza, it was burnt. The smoke detector was going off. He grabbed a towel, wrapped it around him and went into the kitchen.

***

The timing was the worst he told himself entering the smoke filled kitchen. He turned off the oven, pulled out their pizza. It was done, overly so. He sighed as he opened the French doors, letting the breeze pull out the smoke. 

"What perfect timing," he said in a soft whisper shaking his head as he leaned against the counter.

"What happened Jake," she said as she looked around seeing the burnt pizza. "Oh no, it's burnt."

"It is. I'm sorry Erika," he said, his eyes saying for more then just the pizza. "Let me make it up to you. Can I take you to lunch?"

"My clothes are a mess hun, I can't go out with pizza sauce all over them," she said softly as she walked up to him and put her hands on his chest.

"Let's see if we can find something that'll work," he said as he kissed her forehead then took her by the hand and led her towards the bedroom. Erikah stepped into the bathroom to grab their underwear as they walked past.

"Anything you want, feel free," Jake said as he opened the doors to his closet. He quickly grabbed a clean shirt for himself and went to the dresser to get clean pair of shorts.

***

Erikah took her time as she looked through the shirts hanging there before finally deciding on a long light blue button up and a black belt. She turned just in time to see Jake grab his clothes and start towards the door.

"Where you going?" she asked, stopping him cold.

"I thought I'd give you some privacy," he said with a smile.

"Don't be ridiculous," Erikah said with a wink as she dropped her towel and stood there naked before him. She heard a soft sigh from Jake as she started to dress. She felt a little color and that same feeling start to rise in her as his eyes traveled over her body.

She smiled as she reached for her bra and began dressing. She watched him walk to the other side of the bed and couldn't help but let out a little moan as his towel dropped, his back to her. She hadn't realized how nice his ass actually was until that moment.

She quickly looked away as he started to turn toward her.

***

"Okay then," Jake said as he walked to the other side of the bed and he too dropped his towel. He thought he heard a soft sound from the other side of the room, but by the time he looked over, her eyes weren't on him "Probably my imagination," he thought to himself and started to dress.

He looked at her and was still amazed at how good she looked in one of his shirts. He couldn't help but smile as she rolled up the long sleeves and his eyes were soon drawn to the couple of buttons she'd left open.

"We should probably throw our other clothes in the washer before we leave," he said with a smile as he held his hand out to her. They walked hand in hand out of the room and to the bathroom where they scooped up their clothes, being careful to not get any of the food on themselves.

After they were in the wash, Jake grabbed his keys from the table by the door and Erikah grabbed her purse. She took out a pony tail holder and quickly pulled her still damp hair back as they headed out the door.

"Since you were thinking pizza, there's a great little place just up the street. They have some outside seating so we can enjoy the weather too," he said as they left his building.

They walked the couple of blocks to the restaurant hand in hand, talking and laughing. They had to wait a few minutes for an outside table to open up, but quickly decided it was worth the wait.

***

Erikah glanced over the menu the waiter left them for a moment before looking over at Jake. She couldn't tell what he was looking at with the way his head was tilted and with his sunglasses shielding his eyes, but it wasn't his menu as it was laying closed on the table.

"You seem to know what you want, I'll let you order," she said with a trusting smile.

"What are your plans for the rest of the day?" she heard him ask, wondering what he had in mind. She knew how she would like to reply to the question, but held that answer back.

"Nothing I can think of off hand," she said with the memory of having his naked body pressing against hers less than an hour before.

His only reply was okay and it flustered her a little. She was about to ask him why when the waiter came and took the order. Her question was quickly answered when Jake ordered a bottle of wine with their pizza.

She slipped her shoes off and started to rub her toes on the top of jakes foot, just for the contact. The table was a little big for them to reach across and hold hands and she simply wanted to have physical contact with him.

Erikah moved her legs under the table and started to rub his leg with the other foot and soon decided to play with him a little. She slowly slid her toes up and down his leg as they talked. She acted nonchalant about what she was doing, but wanting him to know she hadn't forgotten their shower earlier. It was then that another thought crossed her mind, one she would share with Jake after their lunch.

***

Jake didn't need a menu. He was familiar enough with the restaurant that he knew what was good. He laughed at himself as he realized he couldn't take his eyes off the beauty sitting across the table from him. 

He knew they made their own wine and that it was pretty good for "home made". It was actually made from the grapes that were covering the little fence they were seated next to. He ordered a bottle of it when he ordered the pizza, trying to get the same topping as Erikah had brought.

He still felt bad about the sudden change in plans -- all of the plans. He was about to say something when he suddenly felt her toes slowly rubbing his leg. He looked at her overtop of his sunglasses and grinned as he saw the look on her face.

"You're going to get us in trouble if you keep it up," he said tauntingly, glad the little fence around the tables was covered with grape vines as her toes inched further up his leg.

It was then that Jake got an idea. "Two can play at this game," he thought to himself. He sat back in his chair as he kicked of his shoe and began the same tease that he was getting from Erikah. He took his glasses off so she could see his eyes as his toes reached her knee.

He watched her shift a little. He took a deep breath as her foot continued to slide up his leg.

Erikah took off her sunglasses and Jake was a little startled at the look in her eyes. "You're evil," she said softly as her toes started to dig into his crotch.

"You started it," he replied and quickly followed suit, sliding his toes the rest of the way up her leg. Their eyes locked for about two seconds before they heard "Your order...." From the waiter as he set the pan on the table next to the wine carafe.

"Damn it, this just isn't our day is it," Jake said with a chuckle and poured them both a glass of wine. "Well, we might as well dig in."

The wind kicked up a little, giving off a nice breeze around them as they began to eat. Jake had ordered a delicious pizza. It had a rustic flavor and Erikah was very impressed. The man did have taste she decided. They ate, smiling up at each other making idol chit chat when she felt a tap on her shoulder.

"Hello there Erikah," Roni said.

"Uh, hey Roni. What's going on?" she asked.

"Oh not much. I just had lunch with some co-workers. I'm heading back to the office and saw you two thought I'd say hi. Hello Jake," she said with a smile.

"Roni, hello," he said.

"So what are you two doing?" Roni said looking over Erikah's outfit with a questioning stare. 

"Just having lunch together," Erikah said taking a sip of wine. She knew the questions Roni could ask and was just a little nervous.

"I see. So you know I'm going to ask, what's with the outfit."

"I had spilled something on what I was wearing and Jake offered this to me for the time being," Erikah said letting her eyes tell Roni not to go further.

"It looks cute. Well I'm off to work. I'll give you a call later Erikah. Bye Jake," she waved and was gone.

Erikah held her head and began laughing. She knew that her friend would be calling her tonight and wanting every detail. That's how she was. She looked up and smiled at Jake. He began laughing with her even though he only assumed the reason why.

"You know Jake," she began when she caught her breath, "she is going to ask me all sorts of questions."

"What do you plan on telling her?" he asked, curious himself of how she saw them.

"That we are seeing each other, that I feel something for you. That I could be falling for you," she said looking into his eyes.



They Just Click Ch. 11



Jake choked lightly on his pizza at her words. He looked back at her and saw she wasn't joking. He smiled at the thought of not being alone in his feelings. That she felt something made his heart jump.

"I ... ummm," he stammered, trying to find the words to tell her how he felt.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. It's too early in our relationship to be feeling that way," Erikah said with a bit of sadness in her voice.

"No, don't be sorry. I feel it too Erikah. I feel something for you too. And I know I'm falling for you," Jake said as he reached for her hand.

"You make me feel things I've never felt before. Never dreamed were possible to feel," he continued as his fingers slowly caressed her hand.

"I know what you mean Jake. I've been thinking that since the Hamptons. I know that was only a few days ago, but you can't help what you feel," Erikah said softly as she squeezed his hand.

They both looked down at the pan and the wine bottle, then back at each other. "Let's get out of here," Jake said with a smile and waved for their check.

****

Erikah decided to put her thought into motion. "So Jake, you haven't said what you thought of the pictures. The ones I gave you to look at last night," she said a little shyly as they walked hand in hand.

"Honestly?" Jake asked playfully as he looked into Erikah's eyes, drawing a nod and a smile from her. "I thought they were amazing. And I'm not just saying that because of the model either. I thought that before I realized it was you in the pictures," he said with a wink.

"You know what. I just remembered I have to make a phone call hun. How about you go to your apartment and grab my portfolio then meet me at my studio. Then we can decide if we want to do anything with the rest of our afternoon. Unless you have work that you need to do?" Erikah said as she stopped and turned to face him, resting her hands on his chest.

"No, I don't have anything that I have to do this afternoon," Jake said with a smile as his hands slipped around her waist. He had thoughts of how he would like to spend the afternoon, but now was not the time to bring it up. With the way their luck was going, it wouldn't work out anyway.

"Great, give me about 45 minutes," she replied, pulling his lips to hers for a quick kiss. She slowly drew her hand across his cheek before she winked and turned to walk away.

Jake stood for a moment just watching her as she walked. He couldn't help but stare at the way her body moved. He let out a sigh and was about to head for his place when Erikah looked over her shoulder at him with a big smile on her face. "I knew you were watching me," she called out to him with a laugh in her voice.

"How could I not?" Jake replied, and then started in the other direction toward his apartment.

****

Erikah turned again after a few steps and saw Jake had started towards his place. She quickened her pace knowing it would take most of the 45 minutes to get to her studio and get things in place for her little plan.

She quickly opened the door but left the front lights off so she wouldn't get interrupted by any walk-ins. She set her phone to go directly to voice mail then continued to the back room.

She set up the equipment she needed, set the lights just right and turned on some music before she headed off to the dressing room. She found the perfect outfit for what she had in mind, a black silk bra, matching French cut panty and garter set, a pair of matching silk thigh highs and matching stilettos. She wrapped herself in a long pink satin robe. She looked in the mirror and smiled. She loved the way the color of her skin showed through the lace on the edges.

****

Jake quickly walked to his apartment. He saw the message light flashing on his answering machine but decided to ignore it, not wanting to take the time. The thought of spending another day with Erikah was all that was on his mind.

He grabbed the portfolio from the table ad couldn't help himself, flipping through it quickly as he walked toward the door. He stopped walking when he got to the picture of her in the little red lingerie set. He couldn't help but trace his fingers lightly over the photo. He sighed lightly as his mind went back to their shower from earlier in the day and glanced at the smoke alarm in disgust at what might have been.

Jake locked his door and started down the hall where he met the nosiest tenant of the building "Aren't you supposed to be at work Jake," she asked.

Jake glanced at her "Nope, I quit my job," he said as he kept walking. Nancy was a nice enough person and pretty good looking, but she just couldn't seem to mind her own business. Jake knew the whole building would soon know about his job situation. Telling Nancy anything was like putting up a marquee display.

Nancy must have decided to spread the word as soon as possible because she didn't follow him down the hall like she usually did. She seemed to be after Jake, but the gossip in her turned him off. 

He hurried out the front of the building and was quickly walking down the street, not wanting to lose any more time with Erikah than was necessary, when he got a text message.

****

A smile crossed Erikahs lips as another thought crossed her mind. She quickly went to her purse and grabbed her phone *Jake, I'm going to be in the back of the studio so when you get here just come on in* she texted him. 

*Oh and Jake, lock the door when you get here, we'll go out the back* she said in a second text as she approached the front door and unlocked it.

She was walking to the back again, gently swaying to the sound of the music when she got Jake's reply *on my way ... be there in a few minutes ... xoxoxo*. The xo's made her smile.

She switched her i-Tunes to a sultry jazz sound and lit some candles to help give the lighting effect she wanted. She felt her tummy tighten a little when the bell on the front door rang. She knew it was Jake. She had rehearsed a dozen different ways to tell him what she had in mind, but all of them vanished in an instant.

Nobody had ever helped her with her erotic photography in the past, let alone a man and she wasn't exactly sure if she could turn her camera over to someone to take pictures of her, but something felt right about letting Jake.

She turned to face the door just before he walked in ...... 

****

The second text made Jake wonder a little, but he decided she must have an idea of how she wanted to spend the rest of the day. 

He quickened his pace a little, wanting, no, needing to be by her side. He swore he could almost feel a heat coming from the portfolio in his hand. He soon realized it was simply him missing her already.

Jake got to her studio and followed her directions. He walked right in, closed the door and as he locked it he noticed the music and the lighting, or better yet, the lack of. He headed towards what appeared to be the only room with any sort of light in it, and it was flickering.

"What's with the music and the li ..." Jake said, his words stopping short as he rounded the corner, into the room. He too stopped in the doorway as his eyes took in the site of Erikah leaning against the desk, her robe falling around her leg, revealing their length encased in the soft silk of the nylons.

"I thought maybe you could help me with some pictures this afternoon. I'm thinking I want to update that little book you have in your hand," she said with a wink as she stood and walked to him.

"I ... ah ... help?" he stammered, slightly embarrassed at the thought of photographing her in lingerie. He caught himself staring at the portfolio and was brought back to reality when he felt her hand on his.

"I've never done anything even close to this before. Are you sure about this?" Jake asked.

"Neither have I hun. What do you say we give it a try? You never know, maybe I can figure out a way to get you in a couple too," she said as her hands slipped around his neck, pulling his lips to hers.

"Me in a couple? I don't think so," Jake said when their kiss parted. Erikahs only reply was a smile and a wink.

"As far as helping you, I'm open to the idea. You'll have to give me some pointers though," he said as she turned and took his hand again, walking to area she had set-up.

"All you'll have to do is look through there and push this," she said in a teasing voice, and then seriously "I'll set the shots up to start with."

Before Jake could reply, Erikah turned and walked toward the antique sofa, slowly dropping her robe as she moved. As she moved it down her back, Jake quickly took a picture, letting out an audible sigh. He took another as she looked over her shoulder at him with a devilish smile before letting the robe fall to the floor revealing to him for the first time the lingerie she had beneath.

"Let me just say ... Oh -- My -- God," Jake said playfully as his eyes took in the beauty of her.

"Click, click," she said with a giggle, playfully reminding of his duties this day.

****

"So, are we having fun," Erikah asked softly as she came over to readjust the camera after a few shots. She couldn't help but notice that it appeared Jake truly was enjoying himself. The bulge in his shorts made little to no attempt to hide itself.

Erikah got her answer when she looked into Jakes eyes. The fire in them sent electric waves through her body, catching her breath momentarily.

After she adjusted the camera, "Timer,"' was all she said as their eyes met again and she saw the look in his as she made the final adjustment. "Come with me," she said as she walked away. She paused and looked over her shoulder at Jake who was just starting to move as the camera began snapping at the interval she had programmed into it.

Before she could utter another word, she felt his firm hands on her hips. She turned to face him, her hands immediately going to the buttons of his shirt. When she had them undone, she let her hands roam over the muscles of his chest, followed by soft kisses. The camera continued to click.

Jakes hands gently squeezed her ass cheeks. He wanted to do more, but he could tell Erikah was attempting to set a slower pace. He bent his head and kissed her shoulder, pulling the strap of her bra down her arm with his teeth. His hands soon found their way to the clasp o her bra, making short work of it.

Erikahs head tipped back as Jake lowly kissed across her collar bone to her neck, nibbling gently as he went. Her hands found and loosened his shorts before pushing them to the floor. She instinctively ground her hip into his hard cock, as she moaned softly.

She giggled as he swept her into his arms and carried her to the sofa, laying her gently as their eyes met. No words were needed between them as their expressions matched. Pure passion emanated from both of them.

Jake looked down at the beauty beneath him. His eyes devoured her, committing each curve to memory. He had yet to touch her and her nipples already hardened with need. His hands lingered along her collar bone, running over it. He was lost in the smell of her. Bending his head he placed the softest of kisses on her lips. He took his time exploring her mouth, her taste. 

"Beautiful," he whispered as his mouth left hers.

Erikah couldn't speak; words seemed to beyond anything she could have hoped to express. He was making her feel like the only woman in the world. She felt his desire, his passion for her and it seemed to go straight to her head.

He moved lower, kissing a path down her jaw line. Her skin was so soft, smooth. There was a scent of apples and something else that lingered under his nose. It was distinctly Erikah's aroma. His lips were warm, his tongue rough as he moved lower to taste more of her. His lips brushed lightly over her hardened nipple, barley grazing it. 

He watched her with hooded eyes as his tongue flicked over her aching flesh. He was teasing her, drawing out each sensation. As much as he wanted to plunge into her waiting body he couldn't. He wanted to savor her. "Please," she whispered brokenly.

Happy to oblige he took her nipple in his mouth. Jake's hand was rolling and lightly tugging the other. He moved, alternating, on both breasts. Erikah's hands tugged on the couch cushions; ran her hands through his hair. He sucked, tugging gently, nipping at her pouting flesh.

The torture was too much and she squeezed her thighs around him, silently saying what her lips couldn't. Jake understood and felt that need too. He kissed down her tummy, watching as it tensed with desire. He looked up at her as he lay between her splayed thighs, taking wisp of lace that were panties down with his teeth.

Erikah couldn't believe him, what he was making her feel. Her heart was beating fast, her breathing labored. She knew he was far from done with her. She felt that lace being pealed from her and looked down, straight into Jake's eyes. They were full of heat, passion, desire, and a need. It was there pulsing between them.

He slipped the panties off but left the garter and shoes. The way it framed her sweet mound so perfectly was something he couldn't resist leaving. Kissing his way back up her thigh he smiled, he couldn't believe he was finally going to have her after all his dreaming. Working his way to her core, to the place his body wanted to explore most, took time. He let his finger run along her warmth, tempting her to open further for him.

Her legs moved farther, he leaned in already seeing her wetness. He ran his finger along her slick folds, then making sure she was watching, slipped it into his mouth. She tasted divine. He knew then, after one taste that she was his. Leaning closer, his tongue darted out and around her nub, feeling her gasp as he finally made contact. 

Licking, nibbling with his teeth, sucking her into his mouth all brought cries of pleasure from her throat. His tongue snaked down, parting her folds, slipping into that wet heat he craved. She was so ready her body strung tight, waiting for that final push before flying apart. She was writhing before him, her back arching of the couch, her hands trying to pull him closer. Yet he waited, he was drawing out her pleasure and his.

"Jake, I need you," she told him.

He needed her too but first he knew something else she needed. His fingers slipped into her, stretching her body, curling up and moving as his lips locked around her clit. He heard her breath, the way it faltered, the silent almost non existent pleas for more. He wanted her to fly apart, to let go at his hands. Over and over he moved, hitting that spot, getting her closer till finally she screamed out his name. 

A sweeter sound he'd never heard as his mouth moved to drink her in, to taste her essence. Her body shook, her hands clutched his head to her, till finally she let go and he moved up her body. He took her lips in his own, let her taste herself on him as the kissed. Already she wanted more and this time Jake wasn't about to hold back. His cock was hard, achingly so and wanted nothing more then to be surrounded by her heat. He moved, lining himself to the heart of her and slowly slipped inside. She was so tight around him. So wet, so tight, he had to maintain his control otherwise he'd embarrass himself right there. 

He was buried deep within her, her body wrapped around his when he lifted her and sat down on the couch. She faced him, fully impaled on his length. Her hands dug into his shoulders as he thrust up into her. Soon Erikah began moving and the pleasure grew She picked up on the rhythm Jake set and thrust her body down on his. 

It didn't take long before her moans were loader, her cries more intense. The way she gripped his cock, her tightness moving over him as he lifted into her, all those sensations were amazing. Then Jake felt her, felt that tell tale sign. Her walls closed around him, holding his length right where she wanted him, deep inside. She milked him as she came apart in his arms for a second time.

This time he couldn't hold back and flew with her. He roughly moaned out her name as his cock released into her. He was on a high, the way she felt, the way their bodies still were connected, not wanting to be parted. He brushed her hair from her eyes as her head rested on his chest. 

"I've fallen for you Jake," she whispered just before she drifted off.



They Just Click Ch. 12



The Final Chapter

Jake's strong arms held her securely to him. He didn't want to let the closeness go. He remembered hearing her say she was falling and he smiled knowing that. He knew he had already had and hard. She was so perfect for him in every way. There was her style, her obvious outside beauty, the woman who hid inside, and one of the most important things, the way she urged him to be himself. He would never felt better since he began opening up. 

Jake felt his eyes getting heavy. He decided to relish the moment and let his eyes close, falling into a deep sleep along side the woman he loved. Time passed, the music still played on, everything just right as they lay together. Too soon though a phone rang, its noise woke up Jake. His hand searched for his phone knowing it was his usual ring tone. 

"Hello," he said with a note of sleep in his voice.

"Jake, it's Mr. Anderson. I need to speak with you," the voice on the other end said.

"I told you Mr. Anderson, I'm done. There is no way I can work for you. I deserve respect and unfortunately you just don't give it," he told him.

"I know Jake. I have thought about the way you were treated here and I wanted to say I am sorry. I offer my apologies. I want to make amends. I want to make you partner here," Mr. Anderson told him.


For just a moment Jake felt all his dreams take hold. He would be partner, have a huge, luxurious office. His time would be spent doing just what he loved. Then he looked down at the woman in his arms. He remembered the things she had taught him in such a short time. There was no way he could never be content with a simple partnership, not when he would still be working for someone. That was really what he wanted, to finally be his own boss.

"I'm sorry Mr. Anderson. Thank you for taking the time to call but I cannot work for you. I deserve my own shot, my own way," Jake said with a smile and hung up the phone.

He felt Ehrikah move and he smiled. She crawled a little up his chest, pressing soft, little kisses along the way. Her eyes sparkled and had that mischievous look in them. He could only grin as finally her lips found his. The kiss was so soft, so addicting and sweet that it went straight to his head.

Gradually they pulled apart and his eyes found hers again. Everything had changed between them. Jake felt it and knew Ehrikah did too. Her lovable smile burned into his heart as she looked at him. She was beautiful in so many more ways then physically. Her beauty ran deep, it was in the things she did, the words she spoke. It was the woman inside her that made him a better man and that was what true beauty was all about.

"You amaze me," he told her.

"I do. How's that?" she asked him as her head rested on his chest.

"Just by being you. You have helped me in so many ways, more then I can begin to say. You could take the call I just had. My old boss wanted me back. You have helped me to see that I need to follow what I want. Make my own way in my own life."

Ehrikah did not know what to say, which was a first for her. Words always flowed easily. She had only wanted to help Jake see that life could be all he wanted if he'd just take a chance. It's what she had done with him. Taken a chance to let him past the carefully guarded doors she had always had around her heart. He'd broken through them and she was so thankful. He was the stuff of her dreams and she loved him, truly so.

"I just wanted you to try Jake. To have a chance at what you want out of life," she said pressing a kiss to his chest.

Jake took a deep breath; the feel of her soft skin against his was already making him ache. Then she had gone and pressed her lips on his chest. She stirred such fierce emotion in him. There was no doubt he had fallen, and fallen hard. Hell, he would even go as far to say he loved her. 

Would that scare her away? 

Sure, they both felt something but it was all still so new. He had known many friends that had believed in their love and spoke it only to have it had bit them in the ass. He did not want that, he was too happy. Jake decided to hold it in. He wouldn't rush it, if she felt it too then maybe.

"Right now I want you," he said as his hands lifted her higher on his chest, bringing her to straddle his thighs.

Ehrikah could feel the length of him pressing up and she moved her hips against him. Hearing his groan and sharp intake of breath only made her bolder. She kissed along his jaw line, nipping at his collar bone. When she reached his ear she pressed a soft kiss and then ran her tongue along it just before biting.

Jakes hands rested on her hips, moving up and down lightly, letting her have her wicked way. It was becoming too much as her hips rose and fell. He could not think with the way her soft and delicate folds felt against his aching length. He could feel her warmth caressing him, bathing him in her sweet juices. His control was faltering, slipping.

He had this insatiable need with her. His fingers moved up over her chest, cupping both breasts in his hands. He was greedy and filled his palms with the succulent globe. Lightly Jake rolled her nipples between his thumb and index finger. He was treated to a gasp in his ear.

Continuing his torment, he brought his mouth to the right nipple, then the left. His tongue lavished such sweet attention from one to the other. His teeth nipped and nibbled on her aroused buds until Ehrikah was no longer in control. Her hips were moving on their own, engaged in the time old ritual of want and need.

"Please Jake," she whimpered as his fingers had expertly rubbed her swollen nub between her parted thighs, bringing her to the edge but denying her sweet release.

He lifted her up and slowly moved his engorged length to where they both needed it. Slowly she moved down, impaling herself on him. Each slow moment was more torturous then the next. Filling her like that was exquisite torment. He'd never been with another woman that he felt was so perfect for him.

They fit together like pieces of a puzzle. Each one unlocked the needs and desires of the other. They began slowly, easing up and down, the rhythm unrushed. Jakes hands moved over her skin, teasing her as she rode his body. His head lifted, gently caressing her hardened nipples with his lips and tongue. His hands moved between her legs, seeing them so intimately joined caused him to groan in need. He toyed with her hardened clit creating that sweet torment and watching as it played over her face.

He knew in that moment that it was true, what he felt was true.

He loved her. He needed her. His heart belonged to her.

Just as quickly as the thought entered his mind, he felt her tightening around him. Her orgasm crashed over her. Ehrikah's body milked his, drawing out everything from him. He couldn't help but follow. He poured every ounce of his love and need for her into her body. His breath was rapid; her body had collapsed on his chest. 

Now all he needed to do was tell her. 

Why did he think that was so hard to do?

Ehrikah laid there, her mind reeling with sensation after sensation. Her body was lethargic, exhausted from the pleasure that she had experienced. There was also contentment; her mind, body and most importantly her soul were at peace. It was a feeling like no other. She never wanted it to end either. 

Her hands rested on his chest, folded one over the other. Her chin rested on them as she looked up into Jake's eyes. He took her breath away as he laid there. She smiled one of those soft, sweet ones that showed how truly beautiful she was. Jake's hand found her cheek and his palm rested against it.

He looked down, looked into her eyes. It told him then everything he needed to know. At that moment, he knew she loved it. It was unspoken; it filled the air around them. Through the sexual haze, their loved burned brighter. He was in awe, pure amazement as he her held her face in his hands.

Just moments before he had been afraid, scared to open up and tell her. Now, looking down at this woman, seeing her so open to him, he was bursting to tell her. In the span of seconds, love had been given to him. A love he never thought would find its way to him. Life was remarkable in that way. Only giving you what you needed and then gifting you with something you never expected.

"I love you Ehrikah. You are so much more then I ever had thought to dream of. You are magnificent. I cannot see my life with anyone but you. I know its quick, I know we have not spent all that much time together but I feel it. I know in my heart that you are the one woman for me," Jake said caressing her cheek, his thumb running over her lips.

She let her eyes close, her mind listening to his every word. He loved her. He wanted only her. It sounded like forever. She thought she had known joy before, now it hummed through her body. Ehrikah was happy, blissful more then she had never been before. Her lids opened slowly, she saw his smile, and it widened hers.

"I love you Jake. I think from the first moment we met it happened. There was always this feeling, a connection with you. It stayed strong and even though we've known each other only as long as we have, I know it's true and won't change," she told him pressing a kiss to his palm.

The moment lasted as they looked at one another. Happiness was theirs as their lips finally met in the sweetest kiss. This was not rushed or hurried. It was soft, full of the love and emotion they felt for one another. It surrounded them, leaving them wrapped in their own world. Lost together, entwined, and feeling for the first time that they were with their other half, their soul mate.

Then her phone rang. She gave a little sigh, not wanting anything disrupting their moment. Standing up she smiled at Jake, she felt his gaze on her naked skin. Her hand gripped her cell phone as she answered it. 

"Hello Roni," she said staring at Jake.

"Hey Ehrikah I thought I'd just remind you about the party. You guys are still going aren't you?" Roni questioned.

"Uh yeah, I'll make sure we are both there," she said with a wicked twinkle in her eye, letting her free hand run over her soft, delicate skin, lingering over the places he just caressed.

"You sound like you're up to something over there. Should I be worried? For him," Roni laughed.

"I'm not that bad, really," Ehrikah, said holding back her own laughter as her thighs parted and her hand dipped between them. Jakes eyes were glued to the women in front of him.

"Remember girl, you and I go way back. You cannot get one past me. Any juicy details I should know about," Roni wanted to know.

"Oh there will be plenty of time for girl talk later. I think I better let you go. I'll talk to you later," Ehrikah said as she hung up and let her finger between her legs slip up to her lips. Her tongue slipping out her lips and tasting the passion they just shared.

"Woman you will be the death of me, you know that," he said with smoldering eyes.

"I know but it'll be the perfect way to go," she laughed.

She walked back to the small couch where he lay and sat by him. Her fingers running over his jaw line before she dipped her head down to kiss him. Passion and desire filled the kiss but also there was love, pure and true love.

Their kiss was broken up by a sound, a deep growl that reminded them both not only of the time but of the energy, they had exerted. The rumble grew louder and louder, causing to both laugh.

"Wow! You think we should eat something?" Erikah asked as her long and lean fingers traced little circles on his chest. "I mean other than each other that is," she said with a familiar wicked grin.

Jake could not help but laugh. She was really bringing out a different side to him. It was a side that had been dormant way too long. "Mmm, yes food would be a good idea," he smiled back at her.

Just then, a thought crossed her mind and she began pulling up and away from him as she spoke. "You know I make mean spaghetti if you want." 

He held her tightly to him, not wanting to give up the closeness they were sharing. "As long as we don't end up wearing it, it sounds great," he said not being able to think of a better way to spend the evening.

They dressed quickly and headed out the door walking hand in hand to Erikah's apartment. Jake noticed that she seemed a little nervous as they got closer and wondered why that might be.

"Are you alright?" he asked casually.

"Yeah, it's just that I haven't had many men in my place and I'm just," she paused, looking down, "nervous I guess." She looked back up and smiled at him.

"Don't worry babe. It will be just fine," he said slipping an arm around her shoulder and hugging her tight. 

"It's nothing like your place Jake, that's for sure," Erikah said.

For the first time, Jake felt slightly embarrassed about his apartment. As long as he had lived there, he had viewed it as a symbol of his success. Granted, that success had come in a dead end job, but that job had paid quite well. Now though the apartment, the car, the vacations; none of it seemed to matter. 

The only thing in his life that did matter was making this incredible woman blissfully happy.

"I'm going to owe you a ton of money," Erikah said snapping him back to reality again.

"Why do you say that?" he could not help but ask.

"If I have to keep giving you a penny for your thoughts, it's going to add up pretty quick," she said with a wink.

He was about to tell her when she pointed to the steps to her building. They had gotten there in no time at all. He remembered dropping her off and even then, he had thought the building somehow looked familiar to him.

"Your building is amazing. I don't know what you're worried about," his architectural education automatically kicking in. "Actually; if I remember correctly I've photographed it."

"Good evening Miss Erikah," the door attendant said with a big smile. 

"Good evening Edward. Edward, this is Jake," Erikah said with a wink, knowing what the man was thinking. The look on her face and the friendship she had with the door attendant, all led Edward to know who the man with her was.

"What was that?" Jake could not help but ask when he saw the little exchange between them.

"Edward is more than a door attendant to me; he's been a friend through some of my rougher relationships in the past. He's heard a fair amount about you already," she said as she pushed the button to the elevator.

"Cool. Everyone needs friends, especially in those situations," was all Jake could say. His attention was drawn to the lobby of the building. It had been built in the mid 1920's and had been well maintained. The owner was smart enough to keep the look and feel of that era in the public areas. The lobby area was open several floors up; there was a grand staircase that opened to each wing of the building that people could walk up should they not want to use the elevator.

The huge doors open and the couple walked inside. Erikah pressed the button for her floor and turned to Jake as the lift started to move. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply, it was just the slightest kiss but left Jake wanting more. She sighed softly when she heard the bell telling her they had reached her floor.

She smiled, licked her lips softly as she settled back down from her tippy toes, taking his hand and leading him from the elevator. She led him down the hall and around a corner and smiled as she noticed him taking in the décor of the old building and the look on his face as he realized her apartment was one over looking the lobby.

"Here we are," she said and paused as she pulled her keys from her purse. She was nervous about having him there, both because she rarely had men over and because he might compare it to his place.

She opened the door and walked in, sensing him following her. She heard Jake take a deep breath when she snapped on the lights and though maybe he did not like the apartment. When she turned to explain to him that it was all she could afford when she moved in, she saw the look in his eyes. It was as if he was looking at a palace. It was then that she remembered him saying that he loved the older buildings of the city and that he wanted to try to bring them back.

"This is exactly the type of place I was looking for when I moved to the city," he said as he walked into the apartment. "But there weren't any available and I guess I just sort of got caught up in the show."

"But your place is so..." she was about to say amazing when he turned to her with a smile.

"Impersonal," he said instead. "This is so comfortable, so you," he said softly.

It was she, it fit her perfectly and he soon realized it fit him too. He took her in his arms and looked into her eyes before continuing, "A few minutes ago you said something about owing me. Keep your penny, I will tell you without it. I am at that moment where I realize how everything I have is all about the show. Take my car, my apartment, everything. I also realized that none of it matters to me anymore. The only thing that does is you, us" he said before kissing her.

The kiss spun out of control wildly. The need and passion they felt for one another seemed to have been in charge of them. It took everything they had not to make love there in the living room of her apartment. The fact that their stomachs had growled at the same time, causing them both to laugh was the main reason they stopped.

She took him by the hand and gave him a quick tour of the apartment before they went to the kitchen and started making the spaghetti. Jake picked a bottle of wine from her small collection and opened it to let it breathe while they cooked.

"Why don't you find us some music to listen to," she said with a smile. 

Jake went to her stereo and found an old Frank Sinatra cd. He popped it in the player and set the volume. He turned and saw her watching him from the kitchen with a smile that told him his choice was perfect. Everything is perfect, he thought to himself as he walked back to her.

"I could get used to this," he said as he stepped to her, kissing her softly on the cheek.

"So could I Jake," Ehrikah said leaning against him. "Now go sit so I can make dinner."

Jake went and sat in the living room. He looked at her portfolio that lay on the table. This was different than the other he had seen. These photos were of her friends. She had a way a capturing the emotion people felt on film. The woman had a pure talent. Towards the end he came across a few of her, these were solitary photos. There were ones of her gazing out at the sun, looking into a book, all various poses of self-reflection. They brought out the beauty, inner and outer.

As he looked through the photos time seemed to pass by. Before he knew it, dinner was ready. The aroma of fresh garlic and oregano pulled him in. He followed it to the dining table and helped Ehrikah to her chair.

"Smells wonderful," he told her as he sat.

"Thank you," she said softly.

They began eating quietly, both a little too hungry to talk. Soon though they both looked up at each other and smiled. They realized they had both just dove into eating, so hungry for food they completely stopped talking.

Ehrikah's mind had been doing a lot of thinking since they entered her apartment. Her heart wanted him to stay here with her, her mind said there was no way he would give up the place he was at. Even though she knew better, knew that Jake was not the same man he had been before. He knew now what he wanted from life and that big status quo was not it. She decided to go for it.

"So Jake, I've got a question for you. What would you think about moving in together?" she had not said to her place on purpose. Just incase he was not ready for such a step.

"Live together. That is a huge step. Are you sure that you are ready for that?" He questioned wanting her to be sure. Ehrikah only nodded so he continued, "I would love to but I have a condition."




They Just Click Ch. 12



A condition, she thought. Okay so here it would come. She tried to prepare herself for whatever he might have in mind. Only hoping for the very best, she smiled and urged him to tell her whatever it was.

"We have to live here," he said smiling.

"Really," she said with such excitement.

"I love your place. It is a home. I want a home with you sweetheart, don't you know that by now," he said standing and pulling her to him. "I love you Ehrikah."

"I couldn't be happier. I love you too Jake," she said as her lips found his.