She was imperative to him getting home—ifthe test considered her royalty. Instead of fleeing, she’d clung to him like he was her savior.
Watch it, sap, or you’re going to find yourself head over heels, which is an unneeded complication.
But last night, something within his chest cracked at the thought of her being in more pain than necessary, and he’d unbound her hands, trailing kisses all the way to her toes. He’d enjoyed her little cries of pleasure, and he loved her small, cool fingers around him even more. Though he couldn’t consummate the test, they did everything else possible without performing that one critical deed.
“You were spectacular, little rat.” He kissed her neck and a throaty laugh rumbled against his lips.
“Fin.” She draped an arm across his shoulders. “You’ve gotta be one of the weirdest, kinkiest men I’ve ever met, but I can’t deny last night was fun.” She pushed him back and pulled the plum-colored sheets over her body. “But I’ve never been more uncomfortable in my life. I didn’t sleep a wink. How are you able to tolerate this horrible bed?”
He loved the fact she didn’t seem embarrassed about what they did, no false modesty or need to pretend nothing happened. Comfortable with her body and sexuality, she made him want her more, if it was possible.
I shouldn’t be feeling this way about her—she’s a means to an end, that’s all.
“Well, love”—fingertips brushed a stray wisp of hair from her neck—“I think you passed the test.” Hand over his heart, he continued. “And I promise, you won’t experience that kind of discomfort next time.”
Wait, what am I saying? There won’t be a next time.
Her short legs swung off the mattress and flashed dark skin. When she stood, the sheets fell to the bed.
Fin drew a sharp breath. She was a glorious goddess in the morning light, and his arousal became apparent under the thin covers.
“I was wrong.” Smirking, she cast her gaze to the growing tent in his lap.
She headed toward the private bathroom, sashaying delicious, full hips across the bright room. “It’s not tiny at all—it’s impressive. Maybe I can be properly introduced next time.” With a quick, sexy wink, the door shut with a click.
He collapsed to the pillow and tried to slow his galloping heart. “What are you doing to me, you devil?”
The sound of cascading water from the shower began, and Fin contemplated joining the temptress. He was elated knowing she was going to be his salvation, the perfect, shiny key to his world.
My salvation, my key.The thought reminded him that under this mattress lay the final piece of his long-awaited plan. All he needed do was reach under, pull out the charm, and see if it was charged.
One hand slid along the bottom of the mattress, fingers searching—
Bang, bang, bang.
Someone knocked outside in the hall, which meant it was Margaret.
Bang, bang, bang, bang.
The woman wouldn’t dare interrupt him if it wasn’t something pressing.
Fin sighed, jerking his hand away from the bed. He snatched the wrinkled robe from the floor, threw it on, and tied the belt. When he flung open the door, she stood with her fist still raised as if to knock again.
“I’m sorry, dear, but there are some rather large, intimidating men demanding to speak with you.” She wrung her hands and smoothed her skirt. “I tried to tell them you were busy, but one flashed a gun.”
“You did the right thing.” With his jaws clenched, he stepped into the hall and pulled the door shut.
The older woman began to head for the stairs, but he threw an arm out.
“No, let me go first.”
Her slower steps echoed against the stones.
“Did they threaten you?” He toyed with the ring around his neck and tried to keep his breath steady.
Must keep my emotions in check. I can’t risk Sacha or Margaret getting hurt because I’m unable to rein it in.
“No, he flashed the weapon, smiled like a shark, and said he’d be much obliged to speak to my employer.” Sheharrumphed,and the sound of her legs pumped faster, like the thought of their demands made her blood boil. “I wanted to slam the door in their faces but held my temper and made them wait outside.”
