Page 156 of Chained By Fate


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Matt’s laugh rumbled through his chest. “Take all the time you need, pet. This merger’s permanent.”

“That,” I managed between ragged breaths, “was definitely worth the insider trading charges.”

“Just wait for the next quarter.” Matt chuckled, pulling me close. “I’ve got some very interesting proposals in development.”

I grinned, nuzzling into his neck. “Planning a long-term investment strategy, Mr. CEO?”

“Baby,” Matt murmured, sealing it with a kiss, “you’re my most valuable long position.”

As we lay there, our breaths slowly returning to normal, I couldn’t help but smile against his skin, feeling sleep tugging at my consciousness. In Matt’s protective embrace, I’d found more than just pleasure—I’d found home. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt Matt’s arms tighten around me, keeping me safe in our own private world of love and belonging.

When next I woke, it was to an empty bed, the sun streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows like nature’s alarm clock. Rolling over, I hugged Matt’s pillow to my chest, inhaling the lingering scent of his cologne mixed with something uniquelyhim. A smile tugged at my lips as contentment bloomed in my chest, spreading like warm honey through my veins.

The app project beckoned. My coding marathon’s finish line was approaching, and I was determined to have a prototype ready soon. But as I sat up, movement on the balcony caught my eye. There stood Matt, every inch the commanding CEO against the Vegas skyline backdrop, coffee mug in one hand and phone pressed to his ear.

“The Palmer Project isn’t just about revenue.” His voice carried through the glass, that authoritative tone that made board members squirm. “We’re reshaping the landscape here. No, I want the acquisition team on this yesterday… Yes, I’ve seen the projections. Either get on board or get out of my way—I’m not letting this opportunity slip through our fingers.”

I couldn’t help but smile. Trust Matt to be conquering empires before his second cup of coffee.

The shower beckoned, and I let the hot water wash away the delicious aches from last night’s activities. When I emerged wearing just a fluffy bathrobe, hair still damp and tousled, I expected to find our sanctuary empty. Instead, Matt was in the kitchen, leaning against the countertop like a model moonlighting as a CEO. A room service cart laden with breakfast delights stood nearby, and his attention was fixed on his tablet while he absently picked at his meal.

I padded over, pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek. “Morning, workaholic.”

“Morning, beautiful.” His eyes tracked a droplet of water sliding down my chest where the robe gaped open. “Thought I’d enjoy the view before diving into the day’s chaos.”

I poured myself coffee, savoring the rich aroma. “No running off to your office today? I’m shocked.”

“Some things are worth being late for.” Matt set his tablet down, his gaze burning hotter than my coffee. “Besides, I missed waking up with you.”

“How sweet,” I teased, taking a sip of my coffee before setting it down with deliberate slowness. “Though I have to wonder what’s really keeping the great Matt Caine from his empire this morning.”

His eyes darkened as I reached for the tie of my robe. “Maybe I just want to spend time with my boyfriend. Is that so hard to believe?”

“With that look in your eyes?” The robe slipped from my shoulders, pooling at my feet. “I’d say you have other motives.”

“Can you blame me?” His gaze traveled the length of my body with unconcealed hunger. “You’re quite the distraction.”

“How about,” I suggested, my voice dropping to a sultry purr, “you let me distract you properly before work claims you for the day?”

Matt’s lips curved into a wicked smile. “Now that’s an offer I can’t refuse.”

“Then come here.” I stepped closer, trailing my fingers down his chest. “Show me why you’re really staying home late.”

His answering growl was all the response I needed as he pulled me into his arms, breakfast forgotten in favor of more pressing matters.

Matt’s lips found mine in a searing kiss that left no room for doubt about his intentions. I wrapped my arms around his neck, standing on tiptoes to meet his hungry mouth. His tongue traced the contours of my lips, and I opened for him eagerly, our tongues tangling in a dance that left us both breathless. The taste of him, mixed with the lingering traces of morning coffee and something uniquely Matt, had my head spinning.

When we finally broke apart, both of us panting slightly, I traced my fingers along his stubbled jaw. “Mmm, essence ofespresso with notes of sexy CEO,” I teased, my voice husky from our passionate exchange.

His eyes sparkled with mischief. “And you taste like trouble wrapped in temptation.”

I burst out laughing, the sound echoing through the lavish kitchen. “Oh, honey, that’s just the appetizer. The main course is much more… flavorful.” I waggled my eyebrows suggestively.

“Look who’s serving up innuendos for breakfast,” he growled, but his eyes darkened with hunger. “You’re playing with fire, pup.”

Before I could respond, he swept me up effortlessly, setting me down on the cool marble countertop. “Consider this my morning feast,” he murmured, his breath hot against my ear.

I leaned back on my hands, spreading my legs to give him an unobstructed view of my already straining erection. “Well, well… looks like someone’s ready for the all-you-can-eat special.”