ACT III
ABACO
Rollin tipped the bellman and shooed him out the door. He quickly pulled a surveillance detection device from his bag and scanned the rooms thoroughly.
“Clean.” Rollin proclaimed and replaced the device in a case disguised as spare shirts.
“They couldn’t be sure which villa we’d get.” Cinnamon sighed. “It’s nice not to be on-stage immediately.”
“True. It’s been a long day. But look at it this way, you aced your big scene. And the fun starts tomorrow.” He clearly was not worried and she took some solace in his confidence.
Cinnamon pulled her toiletries and a nightgown from her bag, “Well, I guess we need to get an early start.”
Rollin surprised her with a laugh, “Not that early. I think we’d be expected to sleep in, under the circumstances.”
“You’re right. So we would.” She met his smile and impulsively decided to tell him what she had been thinking. “I’m glad I’m here with you and not Joey Little Fig Bons.”
“You’ll never be with a guy like that. “ His eyes held hers. She broke the link to move into the bathroom, closing the door behind her.
She was truly glad to be with Rollin rather than Bonfigliato. She wished she shared his view that the rest of the mission would be easy. But everything felt a little awkward, as it did every time they played a couple.
Cinnamon wondered why it was never awkward when she played Jim’s other half. She realized it was because she was never thinking about the same things with Jim that she thought about with Rollin. Things like whether his hand would slide into the small of her back as he led her into the room, whether their legs would graze each others under the covers in the night, whether in the morning he would wait to put on a shirt until after he had shaved.
She came out of the bathroom in a short red nightgown. Rollin turned. He had changed into the blue silk pajamas he found in Bonfigliato’s suitcase.
Cinnamon cut him off: “No comments. Remember, I didn’t pack.”
Rollin’s eyebrows raised. He wasn’t sure he had anything to say, other than wow. He had long held a deep appreciation for Cinnamon’s legs, but Marie’s outfit also highlighted stupendous cleavage he had never before seen revealed quite so alluringly.
Cinnamon held up the matching red robe, “It gets better. This robe is completely sheer.” She smirked, deciding not to take things too seriously.
Rollin smiled, but tried to respect her discomfort. “Do you want a nightcap?”
“No, but thanks.” She climbed into bed. “I woke up in LA expecting to sleep there, in my own bed for a change.” She blushed, but glancing at Rollin she realized he hadn’t read anything into her comment.
He slid the glass door to the terrace open, turned and said softly, “And you’ve
already been to
Cinnamon smiled. He did know her well. But was he right? “Is the toughest part over?”
“Should be. We just have to make everybody watching us believe we’re here for a wild weekend.” He looked out, as if waiting to spot one of the many people he knew would be watching them. He sighed and turned back to her. “AC or fresh air?”
“I’m happy with either.”
“It’s hot, but I’d rather hear the waves.” He left the sliding door ajar and moved to the bathroom.
“Good idea.” The rhythmic sounds of the surf were soothing, but not enough to help her unwind.
Rollin returned and crawled under the sheet on his side of the bed, turning out the light. “Night.”
“Night.” But she wasn’t tired. “Rollin,
can you hear the waves in
“Yeah.” He realized
she had never seen his house and turned toward her. “You need to come out.
It’s great. It makes me feel a million miles from the city. But they’re right
when they say it’s better in the
“I haven’t been here before.” She said softly. “Just never got around to it, I guess.” She adjusted her pillow, trying to get comfortable.
“This is one of the greatest places on the planet. Sometimes I wish they had more business for spies. I’d love to come here more.” He sighed, looking forward to seeing the island. “Hey, Dan’s file says I can sail. I’ll take you sailing tomorrow.” Cinnamon turned over again, clearly having trouble getting comfortable. “Sleepy?”
“Not really.”
“Come on then.” He reached for her hand in the semi-darkness and pulled her up as he climbed out of bed.
“What?”
“Let’s go for a walk. I’ve never seen as many stars as I’ve seen here.” He was up, opening the curtains further. “How about a moonlight swim? That would help you sleep.”
“I thought swimming at night was dangerous.”
“I thought danger was your middle name?”
“I lied on my application.”
He laughed. “That sounds like one of my lines. Okay – a moonlight walk.”
She reached for a pareo provided by the hotel, which she had noticed on a hook in the bathroom. She reasoned to herself that the surest way to stay out of the ocean was not to wear a swimsuit. She closed the bathroom door behind her and changed from her nightgown into the silky violet print fabric, wrapping her hips, crossing her chest, then tying the loose ends behind her neck in a halter top. Well, it was better than the nightgown she’d been given. She returned to the room and saw Rollin had changed from pajamas into shorts. He was shirtless and barefoot.
“Shoes?” she asked.
“We’ll be fine. Come on. “
His enthusiasm was infectious and she followed him through the door and down the path to the beach. He was right. The sky was amazing. Stars everywhere. There were so many more than she was used to seeing that it was hard to pick out any recognizable constellations. The sand felt soothing beneath her feet – tiny grains, dry as dust, and still warm from the day’s sun. Rollin went straight to the water’s edge, his feet in the surf.
“It’s really warm. Come on in!”
She was reluctant. He reached out for her hand. As she neared him she asked, “Can you find any constellations?”
He pulled her closer and whispered in her ear, “Well I can, but I doubt Joey can.”
She stayed in his embrace. “Do we have company?”
“Not that I can see. But sound travels-“
She nodded quickly. “You’re right. The water feels great.” A large wave crashed at their feet.
Rollin laughed as he pulled her closer, “The spray, too. Come on let’s walk to the point. The waves are really crashing there.”
Cinnamon followed along, realizing that her own logic would have been to suggest the exact opposite. She would have opted for the smoother waters of the bay in the other direction. But the waves did feel good, the spray invigorating. She was happy to hold Rollin’s hand. He seemed to be pulling her farther from the shore as well as farther from the resort.
Both looked back. They were not followed and the beach was theirs. Cinnamon raised her pareo as the water was nearing the tops of her thighs. Another big wave surged just before them. Rollin turned to shield her with his body, but they both got wet. She was surprised at how wonderful it felt – not cold, only refreshing.
“Okay?”
“Great! Wet, but great.”
“It’s wonderful, isn’t?”
She couldn’t argue with him. “Now I wish I’d worn a suit.”
“Who needs suits?”
She didn’t have a response for that one. Another wave smashed before them, spraying them again. “Swim in this?” she asked.
“Or give it to me and I’ll put it on the beach. Come on, even stevens. I’ll put my shorts up there too.” He bent down to remove his shorts. “Come on, hand it over or we’ll be so wet it won’t matter.”
Knowing that if she stopped to think, she’d just plain stop, Cinnamon quickly undid the bow and unwrapped the pareo, passing it quickly to Rollin’s outstretched hand as she modestly lowered her torso below the water line. “Hurry back. I don’t like the idea of being out here on my own.”
She watched him run through the surf, holding their clothes higher than the waves. She admired his tan lines above and below his tight, lily-white bottom. She waded a little further out, enjoying the feel of the water against her skin. She heard Rollin crashing back toward her through the surf. She knew she had modesty to spare, particularly compared to him, but decided the fairest reaction was not to look up.
He grabbed her hand as he ran by, pulling her further into the water. They dove under the next big swell and found themselves bobbing just beyond the place where the waves were breaking. They could stand between surges. Cinnamon was reassured that she felt no current or undertow. She dipped her head back, smoothing her hair.
The water was exhilarating. She floated in the calm between the waves, gazing up at the stars, enjoying the sensation of muscles relaxing throughout her body. Rollin’s prescription was perfect. This was the perfect antidote to the forty-eight hour day she had had. He was lazily swimming back and forth, never going too far away and keeping an eye on her when he thought she wasn’t looking. She was glad for this chance to relax and be her self for a little while longer.\
She realized her breasts were above water and visible to Rollin in the moonlight as she floated on her back. She allowed her body to slowly sink, until she was submerged to her neck. She met his eyes. He had been watching her. He smiled approvingly, before diving under the next wave.
They swam for ten minutes, not talking, keeping an eye on one another. Rollin stroked toward her. “Okay?”
“Yes, great.”
“I’ll pick up your wrap if you want.”
“Thanks.”
He rode the next wave in, but it wasn’t big enough to take him very far up the beach. She watched him jog the rest of the way to their clothes and realized she should follow him in. He met her in the surf and wrapped her in the pareo, politely averting his eyes as she retied it. They strolled along the beach, neither in much of a hurry to reach the room. Rollin pointed out the constellations he could find. When they reached the villa and Rollin pulled the key from under the mat, Cinnamon regretted their adventure was over.
He offered her first crack at the bathroom, which she accepted. He quickly reconfirmed no bugs had been planted. After she showered, she noticed two blue waffle cloth robes behind the door. She wrapped herself in one, happy to have alternative nightwear. He showered quickly and joined her in bed.
She turned toward him. “Thank you.”
He rolled onto his side, head on his elbow. “My pleasure. You’ll love it here.”
“I do already.”
He smiled. “It’s even better in the sun. Trust me.”
“I do – that makes this easier.”
“You know, when this all starts up tomorrow, I need to play Bonfigliato. I wish he wasn’t such a groper. He’s a no class … It’s all about him, not the woman he’s with….”
Cinnamon smiled, appreciating his blanket apology for whatever was to come when they were on stage as Joey and Marie. “I know,” she said reassuringly.
If it were me…it’d be different.”
Cinnamon smiled, “I know.” She couldn’t resist teasing him. “Different because you’re a better dresser?”
Rollin shook his head, “Because I’m a better kisser.”
He leaned across her, watching her eyes. There was no resistance in them, just curiosity. His hand gently held her shoulder as his lips moved to touch hers softly. Barely touching, his lips grazed hers, gliding one way then back. He tugged at her upper lip as his hand moved along her shoulder to cradle her neck. He seemed able to pull her closer to him with just his mouth. She felt her body lighten and lift from the bed as his other hand slid down her back and bottom.
The kiss deepened as he rolled her into his embrace, massaging her thigh. His hands were warm and his caresses powerful. His leg moved between hers and he lay across her, his mouth still locked with hers. Her moan was involuntary.
Then his tongue moved against her lip and she opened her mouth immediately, accepting him. He traced the inner rim of her mouth, never breaking contact. His hand stroked her thigh, lifting her leg to wrap around his. He was between her legs now and pressed against her. His lips nibbled hers. She wrapped her fingers in the short curls of hair at the back of his neck. She could feel his growing hardness and arched against it.
They both knew where they were headed. And that this was it – last exit before toll - the last chance moment before passion would overwhelm reason.
Rollin broke off the kiss. His hands moved to either side of her and he pressed up, moving out of the v of her legs. Cinnamon shuddered, opening her eyes and meeting his.
She already knew Joey didn’t know how to kiss a woman like that. She suspected that Rollin’s portrayal of Joey wouldn’t offer any chances for kisses that exquisite in public. And now she knew that in private they were combustible. She moved slowly away from him. She spoke softly. “Well, you’re right. You are a better kisser.”
They were working. Tomorrow they’d be onstage masquerading as a sleazy gangster and his latest conquest. A false move jeopardized an important mission and a number of people, more than just the two of them. It was high stakes. It was late. It was for the best. Cinnamon decided she was glad he stopped. But she was also glad he had started. Because now she knew – he wondered too.
At the same time she yearned to feel him against her again. He must have been
thinking along the same lines. “Cinnamon, maybe you can come listen to the waves
at my house in
She laughed and he beamed at her, his finger tracing down her hand. She caressed his chin, feeling the day old beard. They had a long weekend of work to get through. He kissed her hand and held it against his chest. His leg grazed hers under the covers and that is how they slept.
Cinnamon was surprised to wake up in the exact position she had fallen asleep in. Rollin released her hand, “Morning.”
“Hi. Okay?”
“Yep.” He brushed a lock of hair away from her face. “You?”
“Good as new.” The sun was streaming in. She squinted as she looked toward the door to the terrace. “You were right about the sun. I can’t wait.”
He nodded. “Showtime.”
“I know.”
“Costumes.”
“Meaning?”
“That sheer red number.”
“You’re expecting company in here?”
“Nope. But I think we could have breakfast on the terrace. I’ll order room service. What would you like?” He reached for the phone.
“Fruit,” she said rising and heading for the bathroom. “And lots of coffee.”
She could hear him on the phone as she went through an abbreviated version of her morning routine. He was right. She needed to put on the red lingerie. Being seen that way with Rollin on the balcony would support his Joey cover. He would have to kiss her. Well that wouldn’t be all bad.
She yielded the bathroom to him and returned to the bedroom. She decided to look through the other things the support team had packed for her. She hadn’t had the heart to look last night and knew she should hang things up. She took a breath and unzipped her case completely.
She had to give them credit. There was a theme – red and sheer. Marie McGuire certainly had an idea of her look and each article was meant to reinforce it. Cinnamon realized she had bathing suits that covered more skin than most of Marie’s outfits.
She mentally made a list. She found a red string bikini and a white tank suit – fairly predictable. Next, a red and white polka dot sundress – a possible beach cover-up; one red and one white T-shirt – size minuscule; red pumps and red sandals – her size at least; a halter top silk dress – almost pink to be fair; and a back-less black dress. The black dress wasn’t so bad and the black blouse from yesterday’s suit might work as a jacket, she mused. She had the black stilettos from yesterday.
Rollin emerged in the other blue waffle robe. “What are you doing?”
“Unpacking.”
“Looks more like a fashion review.”
“That too.”
He reached for the black dress and turned it on the hanger, giving the back-less cut his approval. “I can’t wait for this one.”
“It may be the only one you see.”
He returned the dress to the closet. “I guess the Marie McGuire look isn’t really you.” She sighed. The doorbell rang. His eyes met hers. He walked toward her and gently put both his hands in her hair and mussed it. She smiled recognizing they needed to appear as a couple only reluctantly emerging from bed. She reached for his hair and gave it a similar ruffle. He smiled appreciatively.
The doorbell rang again. “I’m coming,” Rollin barked over his shoulder. But when his blue eyes returned to Cinnamon’s they were soft again. He took a step toward her and kissed her lovingly on the lips, caressing her cheek with his hand. Her hand held his as his lips pulled away. She nodded.
The waiter arranged a lovely table on the terrace and swiftly departed. Cinnamon walked onto the terrace unprepared for her reaction to the ocean, the sand, and the sun. It was spectacular.
The ocean sparkled. All the blues and greens had a wonderful translucent quality like beautiful gemstones. Watching the water was like peering into them. The waves churned a perfect white as if pristinely clean. The sand sparkled in the bright sunshine with a hint of pink cast. The whole palette of the place seemed to be without any yellow, only crystal clear colors. The terrace itself was surrounded by bougainvillea – one of her favorite flowers – in brilliant shades of magenta and violet.
Rollin came up behind her and pressed against her. He kissed her neck aggressively. She turned in his arms. He kissed her hungrily. It was like being with another man. Giving her bottom a salacious squeeze, he directed her toward the table, “Be good and get me some coffee, Honey.”
Cinnamon was surprised with herself because she was happy to comply. She didn’t mind being ordered around since it gave her something to do. He was such a chameleon. She smiled thinking about how easily Rollin could slip into whatever role was required. She was glad to have a task to help her forget about the hidden audience. She handed him his coffee and poured a cup for herself. “Joey, it’s even more beautiful here than you said.”
“I know beautiful, Doll.” They sat at the table and each picked at the slices of mango, papaya and pineapple. Joey leaned back to soak up the sun. “So whadda ya wanna do today?”
“Didn’t you say you’d take me sailing?” Cinnamon stood to pour more coffee.
“Sure I will. Whaddever you want.” He grabbed her waist, his hands just under her bust. “Doesn’t Joey make you happy?” He caressed her breasts possessively.
“I’m sure you could tell you make me very happy.” Cinnamon noticed the glare of binoculars from the villa across the path to the dock. She climbed into Rollin’s lap to tell him, fingering the St. Christopher medallion around his neck. He wrapped his arms around her, kissed her neck, and slid her robe down her shoulders as she whispered her message in his ear. Rollin moaned in a timely manner to acknowledge her report. He continued to kiss her, working his way down her chest as his lips enjoyed her soft skin.
Cinnamon thought about how much she had wanted him to do that last night. She would have preferred not to have an audience; he seemed to be rising to the occasion and relishing playing to the crowd.
Willy and Jim were just arriving at The Green Turtle Club. They had taken
the first morning flight from
They didn’t mind looking conspicuous, since it reinforced Rollin’s authenticity as Bonfigliato. They had no pre-agreed meeting with Barney, but hoped to run into him for an update on Rollin and Cinnamon’s whereabouts as well as their entourage of minders.
Willy removed his shades as they walked up the path from the dock toward the villas partially shaded by giant palms. Suddenly they heard glass breaking. The sound was coming from the corner villa, from its terrace to be exact.
They both looked up as Rollin swept the empty plates off the table to follow the glasses onto the deck. He lifted Cinnamon from his lap and laid her out across the breakfast table. With his face buried between her breasts, he pushed the remaining silverware off the table and climbed on top of it, pinning Cinnamon beneath him. He proceeded to open her sheer red robe with a flourish and kiss her neck and cleavage passionately.
Willy commented softly, “Rollin really is a good actor, isn’t he? That was pretty theatrical.”
Jim’s head turned slightly. “We did tell him to be visible.” With Rollin’s location established, the agents continued in search of Barney.
Cinnamon loved sailing – the incredible sensation of speed, generated completely by nature. The wind brushed back her hair and the spray cooled her hot skin. She moved the strap of the white tank suit off her shoulder. She could see the contrast between her usually creamy skin tone and the new pink she was sporting. She looked back at Rollin, calmly guiding the catamaran across the smooth clear waters. He seemed very content. She reached back to touch his foot.
“Sorry, Popeye, but I need some more suntan lotion.”
Rollin peered over his Ray-Bans. “You’re right, you do. Here, put this on.” He tossed her his blue polo shirt. Once she had it on he added, “Okay, coming about.”
“Aye, Captain.” She smiled and simply lay down flat as Rollin freed the sail and allowed the wind to turn them swiftly. After the boom and mainsail snapped across her overhead, she rolled to the opposite side and sat up on the pontoon, sliding back between Rollin’s legs in case they had an audience at the dock.
After anchoring the catamaran, they walked hand in hand along the beach path. Barney appeared with a tray of wares. His hair was augmented with a wig of dreadlocks. Like Rollin, he had not shaved.
“Hey pal,” Rollin called loudly. “You got any suntan lotion?”
“De best, man.” Barney yelled, then moved nearer to them. “Your villa was bugged while you were at lunch.” Rollin nodded and handed him two dollars for the lotion. “I bugged it too, just in case.” Rollin laughed.
Cinnamon softly relayed what the stewardess told her about Bonfigliato. Barney raised his eyebrows and laughed. Cinnamon pursed her lips, “What?”
Barney shook his head. “Jim did tell me he noticed a very special room service breakfast on your terrace this morning.”
Rollin smiled, “Whatever the part requires.”
“Please tell him why.” Cinnamon was more concerned than Rollin about what Jim might think.
Rollin asked, “How big is the audience?”
“Five, not including Jim, Willy and me.” Barney answered calmly.
Cinnamon picked up some of his shells, as if examining his wares. “Where are they?”
“You spotted the tan blondes, both built like Olympic swimmers?”
Rollin nodded, “Could be twins? Missing their surfboards? Look like Bamm-Bamm all grown-up?”
Barney nodded. “Exactly. Early this morning they asked to change rooms. They’re in the villa just after the one next to you – be careful what you say on the terrace.”
Cinnamon thought back; at least they had stayed in character.
Barney continued, “They’ve got a third guy in the corner room opposite the entrance to your villa. I think the bugs transmit to that room. He seems to be keeping an eye on your place – hasn’t left his room.”
Rollin squinted into the sun, adjusting his shades, ”Then there’s Laurel and Hardy.”
Barney smiled, “The two who follow you everywhere.”
“They’re not subtle.” Rollin added.
Barney smiled, “Jim told me the fat one called Nicky Bonfigliato
from the lounge. His name is
Rollin turned to Cinnamon, “See!”
“Then in this case the thin one must be Ollie. They’re not even trying to blend in.” Cinnamon nodded toward the beach where the pair huddled under an umbrella in outfits they must have bought from the resort gift shop.
“I think it’s a good sign. They’re acting like this is a routine baby-sitting assignment - exactly what Dan was after.” Barney smiled and moved on.
Cinnamon went back to the room to get her cover-up. She changed into the bikini, but intended to sit in the shade. She met Rollin poolside. He was content sitting in the sun for hours and was already darker than when they arrived.
Cinnamon read the guidebook to the islands she had found in the room. “Wow.
There are five different shades of bougainvillea in the
Rollin, lying in the chaise, arms over his head, basking in the sun outside the range of her umbrella, only murmured in response.
Cinnamon continued, “Did you know that when the Spaniards claimed the islands
as a colony they named this area baja mar
for shallow sea and over time that became
“Come here, Honey.” Rollin’s Joey had a way of turning the simplest request into an order.
Cinnamon looked up from her book.
“Here.” Rollin said, indicating his chaise lounge.
Cinnamon was uncertain, not sure where he was going with this, but rose from her chair in the shade to sit on the bottom of his. He pulled her up across him so she was lying on his chest. They were face to face. She watched him closely, aware that both sets of minders – Laurel and Hardy and the Bamm-Bamms - were also poolside.
He spoke loudly enough to be overheard. “I been thinking. I want you to go topless, like the European girls.”
He reached behind her to untie her bikini top. Cinnamon reached back to stop him.
“But, Joey, I’m an American girl.” She replied playfully, but she was angry with him. She thought Rollin wasn’t playing fair.
He kissed her neck, whispering “Trust me.” Then he undid her top and called loudly to the waiter, “Hey pal. We need two more of that drink that comes in the pineapple.” Certain he had everyone’s attention he reached for the suntan lotion on the table beside him and opened it, one arm still around Cinnamon, holding her close against his chest.
As he smoothed the lotion along the length of her back, she lowered her head against his shoulder. He kissed her neck and whispered again, “I don’t think they’d believe Joey would be with a girl who has already memorized 500 years of Bahamian history.” He kissed her ear softly.
Suddenly his hands massaging soothing lotion into her sunburned shoulders didn’t feel so threatening. She relaxed in his warm embrace. She turned her head and snuggled under his chin. “Give me a little credit. That’s all I was going to share.”
He laughed and said loud enough to be overhead, “What’s wrong with me telling you I need a little more attention?”
Cinnamon raised her head, “Tie me up.”
Rollin grinned, “That’s what I like to hear, Honey.”
“Joey! My suit.”
“I think I like the other idea more.” He said lecherously.
“Tie up my top and I’ll put some of this lotion on your back and pay you a little attention. Fair is fair.”
“Fair?” Rollin grumbled as he tied her top and allowed her up. “Doll, you’re the one needs the lotion.” He rolled onto his stomach as the pina coladas arrived. “Sign for ‘em Marie.”
Cinnamon complied, one hand holding her top against her chest until she had a chance to adjust it properly. She exchanged the sun block for some coconut-scented tanning oil and drizzled it along Rollin’s back. She rubbed it in, noticing out of the corner of her eye that the Joey and Marie show remained the main attraction poolside.
At
Rollin carried her high heels and teased her about the blouse as they walked along the sand toward the beach bar, knowing that between their room and the bar was their only chance at privacy. “I still say the girlfriend of a mobster would wear less.”
“Since when did I become your girlfriend? Joey has no plans to ever see Marie again.”
“Well take off that shirt and that might change.”
“May I remind you that the real mobster picked me up?” Rollin had to concede that and laughed. Cinnamon continued, “Besides… I prefer to leave more to the imagination.”
Rollin shook his head, but did not look at her. “My imagination is already active enough when it comes to you.” He passed over her shoes and continued quickly to the bar before she could respond. She realized her mouth was agape. She slipped into the heels and followed him to the bar.
“Whadda ya mean no Bailey’s Irish Cream? What kinda joint … All right, all right. Gimme two lime daiquiris.” He turned to check with Cinnamon and she nodded her agreement. He pulled two cane stools closer together, making sure they had a clear view to the west where the sun was sinking lower.
“It’s gorgeous,” Cinnamon noted. There were already swirls of orange and purple on the horizon.
“I agree. So are you, Honey.” He toasted her and leaned closer to whisper. “Come on, take off the top. I want to show you off – Laurel and Hardy are at a table behind us and the Bamm-Bamms are coming down the path.”
Cinnamon met his eye and gave him a playful smirk. She put a hand to each side of the blouse and opened it with her own dramatic flourish. He helped her slide it down her arms and fold it over the stool beside his. Tan lines from her two suits were faintly visible on her sunburned back. His hand was magnetically drawn to the bare skin at the small of her back.
He leaned closer and kissed her long neck. It was a Rollin kiss – graced with finesse, filled with suggestion. He nuzzled her ear, whispering so only she would hear, “Thank you. You’re so beautiful. I can’t believe I suggested any changes.”
She turned to meet his eye and replied with a soft smile. His electrically charged hand moved up her bare back to her neck. He massaged it lovingly, the warmth relaxing her deeply. “Your back is radiating heat. Does it hurt?”
“Not any more,” she replied playfully.
He grinned. “Anything else I can take care of?”
“Hmmm.” She nodded yes.
He beamed, mesmerized. It was clear he’d do anything. “What?” He asked.
She responded calmly. “You can get me another drink,” then added pointedly, “Joey.” He smirked. She smiled, turned toward him and added softly “Normally Joey would have grabbed Marie’s ass by now.”
Rollin sighed. “Yeah, Marie.” He straightened and signaled the barman for another round. She was right. He had to meet the expectations the minders had of Joey, much as he would prefer to be himself. He noticed Willy and Jim had taken a table not far behind them. They had ordered orange juice.
Rollin tossed his head back and shouted accusingly, “Hey! You looking at her?” The other patrons stiffened. The barman placed two daiquiris in front of Rollin, “Anything else, sir?”
Rollin waved off the barman and turned back to stare at Jim. “You heard me.”
Jim shook his head slowly, “No, I’m not looking at her.”
Rollin stood next to Cinnamon. “Why not? How come? She’s the most beautiful woman here, isn’t she?” Jim looked away. Rollin pointed at Cinnamon, “Hell she’s the best looking dame on the whole island and this is an island filled with beautiful women.” Rollin pawed at Cinnamon, turning her roughly to face Jim and Willy. “You gotta go a long way to find a woman as beautiful as she is, don’t ya?”
Rollin’s Joey lecherously lowered her dress along her shoulder. Cinnamon twisted out of his grip, “Come on, Joey! You said I could see the sunset.” She pulled him back toward the bar.
“Yeah, well first the sun is going to set on this wise ass.” He moved closer to Jim, who rose to meet the challenge. Willy tried to restrain him, but Jim shrugged him off.
“There’s just one thing, Bonfigliato. I just can’t see why a beautiful woman like that would be with a low-life guy like you.” Jim held Rollin’s eye. They were certainly the center of attention for everyone in the bar.
Rollin scoffed. “Sitting there in a cheap suit, drinking oj. You don’t even have the balls to drink on duty. She’s mine. Got nothin’ to do with you. Go back to your room and file a report. Write all about her! It’s as close as you’re ever gonna get.”
Willy stood and pulled Jim away, “Come on Maynard. Let’s get some dinner.”
Cinnamon reached for Rollin’s hand. “Joey, I need another drink. Come over here and be nice to me.”
Rollin shook her off, but once Jim and Willy had headed up the path to the dining terrace he returned to Cinnamon’s side. She turned on her stool, rotating away from him, but only to stop and slip back into his arms. “Bravo,” she whispered.
“To a full house.” He murmured against her hair.
She pressed back against him, tipping her head back to rest on his shoulder, her hand moving to his thigh. Her fingers traced the seam of his tuxedo pants. Her new position presented him with her regal neck stretched out across his shoulder. He turned and nibbled it sensuously. “You’re making me crazy, you know.” He whispered into her ear.
“You’re going to miss the sunset.”
“Don’t worry about me. My view is pretty dazzling.”
After another cocktail watching the sun dip below the horizon, they moved to the dining area. They were seated off to one side and could actually see all their minders more easily than they could be observed.
Their secluded table also meant they could speak relatively freely. Cinnamon shared her insights into local cuisine, garnered from the guide she had been reading at the pool. They had a delightful dinner. Both ordered the local specialty - blackened grouper with peas ‘n rice. Rollin ordered a slice of key lime pie for them to share for dessert.
He fed her a forkful. “I like this table. We can mind the minders.”
Cinnamon smiled, but she knew they would be back under scrutiny as soon as they returned to their villa. “How do you want to handle tonight?”
Rollin reached over to offer her another bite. “Well…we can avoid faking screaming sex if I get publicly drunk and stagger back to suite.”
Cinnamon nodded, her lips pursed, enjoying the tart taste of the pie. “It will take an awful lot of Bailey’s for you to be staggering drunk.”
But the idea was a good one. She beat him to it, tossing back her daiquiri and loudly ordering another one. Another cocktail later and Joey told Marie he was cutting her off.
“Joey, I’m fine. Really, just fine.” She clung to his shoulders as he helped her rise from the table. Most diners had turned in, but she definitely got the attention of their two surveillance teams lingering over dessert – three teams if Willy and Jim, now conspicuously watching from the bar, were included.
“Honey, you gotta watch these island drinks. The rum’ll getcha every time.”
“No, no, I’m fine, Joey. Let’s go dancing.” Cinnamon’s performance was convincing as she tried to move into his arms. She staggered out of her stilettos. “Hey, Joe. Can you just do me one little favor, huh? Can you just keep my shoes for me?” She reached down to remove them, tottering precariously, barely able to keep her balance. She placed one black shoe in Rollin’s right jacket pocket, then tried to get the other stiletto into his left. Her aim was off and she needed his help. “Joey, is the island spinning?” She slunk against him and passed out.
He shook her. “Marie? Marie?” Sighing, Joey dipped down to hoist her over his shoulder. Cinnamon made her exit slung over Rollin’s shoulder in a fireman’s carry. When they were far enough away from the terrace, walking along the beach path to the villa, Rollin caressed her exposed back, taking advantage of the backless dress. “Nicely done.” He whispered.
“Thank you,” she whispered back, body still limp, arms still dangling below her upside down head.
“How many daiquiris have you had?”
“Enough. I never finished any of the early ones.” He shook his head in appreciation.
Once in the villa, he tossed her unceremoniously off his shoulder and onto the bed. He beamed at her. “Marie, you sure seemed like a dame who could hold her liquor. Marie? Marie!” He shook her bare foot teasingly.
She folded her arms, laughing silently, watching him play it out. His smile was making her nervous. He was clearly up to something. “Honey, I don’t know what else to do except get you undressed and toss you under a cold shower.”
She gave him The Look – the one he’d seen her give a hundred other guys. He’d never been on the receiving end before. It was terrifying and yet strangely arousing. It said “Don’t even think about it” more clearly than mere words could ever convey.
He put a hand in each pocket and passed her shoes to her. It was a peace offering. She smiled.
“Oh Marie, Marie, Marie.”
She reached to the nightstand for a pack of cigarettes and a lighter, passing both to him. He lit one for each of them and opened the sliding glass door to the terrace. She relaxed, reading the guidebook she couldn’t read as closely in public, watching him pace from the corner of her eye. She was enjoying the fact that he couldn’t talk to her. Eventually she put her finger to her lips and moved to the bathroom to get undressed.
He opened a three-pack of Cuban cigars he had bought from the barman, extracted one and moved onto the balcony for a smoke. She had played it very well – again. He wished he had reason to play out his attraction to the beautiful blonde and get her back in his arms, but he knew it wasn’t acting any more. Most of all, he wished his bedroom wasn’t bugged.
He went back inside and quickly changed into pajamas and climbed into bed with her. She rolled against his shoulder – her peace offering - and he held her there, happy to sleep with his cheek against her soft hair.
Cinnamon woke first. She savored the feel of his warm thigh against hers. She looked up and saw he was still sleeping. His breathing was even and soothing. It was already brilliantly bright outside, but she had no interest in moving.
She watched him sleep, studying his wrist, peeking out of the sleeve of his pajamas, draped across her shoulder. She liked his hands – masculine, well-manicured, elegant long fingers – and knew his touch was something special – warm, electric, exciting. He rolled toward her, pulling her against him.
“Marie, how’s your head?”
“Pounding.”
“I bet.”
She caressed his chest through the silky pajamas. “I’m sorry about last night, Joe. I’ll make it up to you.”
“Howze that?”
She moved into his arms and kissed him deeply. “That’s how.”
“Mmmmmm.” He held her fast. “Come here, you can make up for last night this morning.”
Cinnamon traced his jaw line. “I thought I heard you say something about a shower.”
“That was last night – and it was a cold shower.”
Cinnamon’s voice was husky. “Doesn’t have to be a cold one now, does it?” She rolled out of bed, threw him a smile over her shoulder and moved swiftly into the bathroom and turned on the shower.
Rollin pursed his lips. That was cleverly done. He was reminded again that she was very good at the game. He wouldn’t have minded more kissing before she introduced the shower idea.
He walked slowly to the bathroom door, which Cinnamon had left ajar. With the water running, he was sure they were out of range of the bugs. He leaned against the doorframe, poking his head into the sumptuous bathroom. Cinnamon was leaning against the marble vanity that housed the double sinks, arms crossed.
He nodded appreciatively, moving closer to her. Without touching her he leaned closer to her ear, “Well-played.”
“Thank you,” she whispered in response.
“How long can we stay in here?”
“Long enough to take a shower.” She answered. As his smile formed, she reached for his chest, gently pushing him back, “I’ll go first.” She parted the curtain and climbed in. Her hand reappeared, followed by her second, passing him her robe. She whispered, “There’s a hook by the door.”
“Yeah, okay,” was his disappointed response.
They spent another morning in the sun being visible around the pool. Both wore their dark glasses. Joey repeatedly rubbed suntan lotion on Marie’s shoulders, back and legs.
Early afternoon, they walked to the restaurant on the water at the edge of the property. They ordered lobster and a bottle of champagne and enjoyed feeding each other both. They took their time walking back to the pool the long way through the surf. It gave them a break from the constant scrutiny.
Rollin gently pressed his fingers into her shoulder. She was wearing a sundress over her bikini, but her exposed areas were increasingly red. “You’re as red as your wardrobe. You really are burning. Want to go inside?”
Cinnamon slipped her arm through his. “So you can throw things around the room?”
“You’re the one who told me it’d be true to character.” He teased.
“Full disclosure. Just trying to keep us alive.”
Rollin stopped and softly pressed his fingers on her chest in the scoop neck of her dress. She was pink there as well. “And I’m trying to keep you from turning into Lobster Woman.”
Cinnamon knew his concern was genuine and appreciated it. She was coated in suntan lotion. “Maybe I’ll sit under an umbrella.” She got onto the topic that was really making them reluctant to return to center stage. “What are we going to do about tonight?”
Rollin’s arm trailed down to her hips. “Want me to get drunk tonight?”
Cinnamon shrugged. “Or I could get drunk again.”
“I think I’d get rid of you if you passed out two nights in a row.”
“True. They’d expect you to dump me. You’d find another girl. Well, they wouldn’t have bugged her room.”
Rollin looked over his glasses at her. “You’re stuck with me. We’ll think of something. I could lose my voice.”
Cinnamon didn’t go for it. “Between now and tonight?” She shook her head no. “You know, we could always play the scene. You are an actor after all.”
He turned to her and grinned, “It’d be fun.”
“It’d be acting.” She replied definitively.
Rollin laughed. “You really are burning. Let’s go to the villa, the hammock is in the shade. And if we’re careful we can whisper.”
There was no sign of either of the Bamm-Bamms on their terrace two villas away. That made Cinnamon relax slightly. Rollin dragged the hammock into the shady side of the terrace. He leaned across it and reached for her.
“Come on Marie. I need a nap.”
She climbed in next to him, not minding the way the hammock shape brought them side-by-side. He moved his arm around her and she lay back against him like two spoons. He was only wearing black swimming trunks and she could feel the warmth of his chest and legs against her back and thighs.
“You can still see the surf from here.” Rollin pointed out.
Cinnamon looked at the churning white waves. “Hmmm. Can you see us from the surf?”
“No. You can’t really see us from anywhere. Only to know that we’re out here napping.” He reassured her.
Cinnamon was content for Joey and Marie to have a little down time. The sun was hot and the constant supervision requiring them to stay in character was equally tiring.
She yawned and felt Rollin pull her closer. He gently stroked her arm, then her hip. This was Rollin’s touch, not Joey’s. She turned slightly in his arms so she could meet his eyes. He pulled her against him and kissed her tenderly, just as he had the night they arrived, dramatizing the difference between his own feelings and the part he was bound to play.
She didn’t resist and his kisses grew deeper. His hands were making her body tingle as he stroked her back and thighs. She turned to get more comfortable and brushed her shoulder against the hammock. The rough fabric scraped her sunburn. She flinched.
His lips moved to her shoulder. His cool kiss brought some relief. “Okay?” he asked softly.
“My sunburn hurts. I’m going to go in and change out of my suit.” She started to rise, but he held her to him.
“Stay…I’ll do it...don’t go in.” He reached behind her and unzipped her dress and reached in to once again untie her top. He watched as her breasts were freed under the soft fabric of the dress. He also untied the bow at her neck and slowly pulled the bikini top away from her, dropping it beside the hammock.
He left her zipper unzipped down her back. One hand reached inside the open slit and his fingers traced over her soft skin. He could feel the heat where she was burned. His other hand softly caressed her chin, slowly trailing down to cup her breast through the sundress. She responded to his touch – he felt her nipple harden and heard her slight gasp. He kissed her neck, biting playfully until he found a spot that made her squirm beneath him. He slowly lowered her dress off her shoulder.
She stopped him, her hand clasping his. “I think I should go in and get us both a cool drink.”
He ached for her and shifted his weight against her to show her. “I’m not thirsty.”
“It’s getting really hot out here.” Feeling him hard against her thigh excited her.
“We’re in paradise and this is the only part of it that’s ours.” His eyes met hers. He could see she was momentarily indecisive and leaned closer to kiss her again – a slow soulful kiss that reminded her of the excitement of their first night and hinted at all that could come. His fingers moved back to slide her dress down. She felt her back arch in response. His leg slipped between hers.
He peeled the dress off her sunburned shoulder, lowering it tantalizingly slowly. His lips cooled her pink skin as he kissed his way down her tan line to her peaked nipple. He took her in his mouth. She murmured involuntarily. His hand lowered the rest of her dress so that he could move between both her breasts with his fingers, lips and tongue. His actions made her squirm. Her hips moved against his, her motion urging him on.
While his tongue teased the tight peaks of her breasts, his hand slid under her dress and stroked her through her bikini bottoms. She responded with a delighted sigh, but he was unhappy with the fabric blocking his way. His fingers skillfully crept under the leg band then his hand tugged her bottoms down until he could untie the side strings and drop it under the hammock to join her bikini top.
He felt Cinnamon’s hand move to the waistband of his suit. It may not have been her exact intention, but he raised his hips above her and lowered the elastic waistband of his own suit. He lay against her, sighing at the feel of her warm soft skin against his stiff shaft. Then his hand moved purposefully up her thigh. He moved to kiss her sweetly as his fingers entered her, massaging a firm circle between her legs.
He lowered himself against her as the kiss continued and his fingers moved steadily. Cinnamon’s back arched as she pressed against his hand. He was delighted to see such a clear indication of the pleasure he could bring to her. He was aching to feel her around him and reached for his shaft. He guided it against her, not entering her, but continuing his sensuous massage, feeling her heat arouse him even further.
She flexed her hips toward him, presenting herself. His lips left hers and their eyes met. God he wanted her. She reached for him, her hand on his smooth, thick rod. Together they guided him toward her. He allowed his round head to separate her silky folds, but barely enter her. With his hand he pressed himself against her swelling nerve bundle. She shuddered, her breath coming in gasps. “Rol-“
He silenced her with his lips. He could feel her powerful internal muscles drawing him into her more deeply. She was slick and warm. Oh … how not to explode. He moved his hips against her, probing within her. Her moan of delight spurred him on further. The hammock started to sway. She took all of him inside her. He exhaled deeply.
Suddenly, his feeling of total ecstasy was interrupted. The telephone in their villa was ringing insistently. Their eyes met. Rollin was willing to ignore it. He pressed further against her, but he felt her closing down. There was fear in her eyes. Her hips stopped moving. He could see she was uncomfortable. He reluctantly withdrew from her. The phone continued to ring as he caught his breath. He pulled away from her and raised his shorts over his bulging erection.
He climbed out of the hammock with a frustrated sigh. He saw Cinnamon lower her dress as he moved into the bedroom to pick up the receiver.
“Yeah? … No, I’m not expecting any one… well I don’t care if she is in the lobby.” His eyes met Cinnamon’s as she moved toward him. He indicated the message pad on the table. She passed it to him with a pencil.
“Yeah…well, what’s her name?” He wrote in simple block letters ‘woman in lobby – claims she knows me?? Find Jim.’
He continued the conversation with the front desk. “Describe her … Okay. I’ll be there in a minute.” Rollin instantly knew Barney as well as the mob would have heard the call. He turned to face Cinnamon. “Marie … I gotta go out. I got some business I gotta care of.” His eyes never left hers.
Cinnamon nodded hesitantly. “I feel like going for a walk. I’ll meet you back here.”
Rollin squeezed her biceps, pulling her against him. “Okay, Marie.” He moved away and nodded to her. Rollin grabbed a polo shirt, slipped into his loafers and warily headed to the lobby. He was fully aware he could be walking into a trap. Set-up or not, if the mysterious woman in the lobby knew Joey Bons, she’d blow the whistle. The impostor would be exposed.