When Mom's Friend Marina Dropped By: A Tutorial in Temptation by Nikita And here's a short excerpt from the story: Marina's eyes narrowed as she took in the scene before her. The house was immaculate, not a speck of dust in sight, but Marina's host was nowhere to be found. Instead, she found herself face to face with Nikita, Marina's son's best friend and notorious flirt. Well, well, well, if it isn't the prodigal son's best friend, Marina drawled, crossing her arms over her chest. I was expecting your mother, not you. Nikita grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. Ah, but Marina, my dear, I'm exactly what you need right now. Marina raised an eyebrow. Is that so? And what makes you think that? Nikita took a step closer, his eyes locked on Marina's. Let's just say I have a way of making women forget all their troubles. Marina snorted. Please. I've heard that one before. Nikita's grin widened. But have you ever heard it from me? Marina hesitated for a moment, then shook her head. No, I can't say that I have. Nikita took another step closer, until he was standing just inches away from Marina. Then let me show you what you've been missing. Marina's heart skipped a beat as Nikita reached out to touch her face, his fingers tracing a line from her cheekbone to her jaw. She should push him away, she knew she should, but she couldn't bring herself to do it. Fine, she said softly. Show me what you've got. Nikita's grin turned into a smirk. Oh, Marina, you won't be disappointed.

Nikita was comfortably lounging on his couch, nursing a glass of whiskey, when the knock on the door came. He glanced at the clock on the wall – it was later than he had thought. With a curious frown, he set his glass down and made his way to the door.

Standing on the other side was a woman he recognized but couldn't immediately place. She was strikingly beautiful, with a strong presence that commanded attention. Her eyes held a playful glint as she offered him a smile.

"Marina, right?" Nikita finally said, the memory of his mother's friend coming back to him. "What brings you by?"

Marina's smile widened. "I came to visit your mother, but it seems she's not home. I hope you don't mind me dropping in unannounced."

Nikita ushered her inside, unable to resist her charm. "Of course not. Can I get you a drink?"

Marina looked around the apartment, her eyes taking in the decor and the view of the city. "This is a nice place you have here, Nikita. Predictably masculine, but I like it."

Nikita laughed, not offended in the least. "And here I thought you'd appreciate the lack of frills. Would you prefer a martini, then?"

As he mixed their drinks, the two of them continued to banter back and forth. Marina teased him about his bachelor pad, and Nikita playfully called her bossy and too direct. But beneath the lighthearted jabs, Nikita could feel the tension building between them.

It was Marina who finally addressed it, her eyes full of desire as she looked at him. "Nikita, are you seeing anyone?"

Nikita was taken aback by her forwardness, but he couldn't deny the attraction he felt. "No, I'm not," he stammered out.

Marina moved closer to him, her voice low and seductive. "I always thought you were a charming man, Nikita. I bet you're a wild one in bed."

Before Nikita could respond, Marina ran her hand through his hair and whispered in his ear. The feel of her breath on his skin was electrifying, and Nikita found himself unable to resist. He pulled her close and kissed her deeply, their chemistry undeniable.

As they explored each other's bodies, Marina took control. She directed Nikita to do what she wanted, and he was more than happy to oblige. They teased and played with each other, their attraction growing stronger with every touch.

When they reached the peak of their passion, Marina looked into Nikita's eyes and said, "I knew you'd be a good time."

Nikita, still reeling from their encounter, couldn't help but smile. He knew that this was just the beginning of something wild and exciting. And as he looked at Marina, he couldn't wait to see what else they would discover about each other.