I slip my tongue into his mouth and our tongues fight for dominance. His wins. He has to be in control. Possessive much?
I pull back as he hits a spot that sends me over the top. I bite down on his neck as we come hard together.
How will I walk away from this man after it’s all said and done?
CHAPTER SIX
DECLAN
Meridea keeps her arm threaded through mine as we move gracefully through the grand masquerade ball. A silver mask covers half my face, and I’m dressed in a sharp, single-breasted, one-button black tuxedo. A silver bow tie completes the look. By my side, Meridea is breathtaking in a red long sleeve sparkling gown that clings to her curves and flows elegantly with each step. The daring thigh-high slit and the open back of the dress are enough to make my jaw clench with possessiveness. I chose this dress for her, and while I love how stunning she looks, I hate the thought of anyone else feasting their eyes on my woman’s body.My woman.Did those words flow through my mind?
Strange how natural they feel.
Meridea’s face is partially hidden by a black mask adorned with feathers, adding to her allure. Her lips, painted in a deep red, draw my attention, and the urge to claim them is almost unbearable.
The ballroom is exquisite, with gigantic crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the space. Vibrant paintings adorn the walls, sparking conversation among the elegantly dressed guests. A server passes by, expertly balancing a tray of champagne flutes. I grab two glasses and hand one to Meridea.
“This place is beautiful,” she says, her eyes sparkling behind her mask. “Your mother attends these often?”
“When she can,” I reply, taking a sip of champagne. “Sometimes my sister fills in for her, representing the family.”
“What else don’t I know about your family?” she teases. “Other than the fact that they’re total sweethearts.”
“Blue Haven, our town, has been in my family for generations. My father’s ancestors built it.”
Her smile deepens as she sips her champagne. “It’s a lovely town. You’re lucky to have that history.”
My gaze sweeps over her, taking in the way the gown hugs her curves. “You’re fucking stunning,” I murmur, lowering my voice so only she can hear. “Later tonight, I’llbe so deep in your pussy you’ll be screaming my name.”
“Oh, yes,” she purrs. “I can’t wait.”
I have to keep Meridea from attempting to leave town for three more weeks. Tampering with her birth control was a calculated move—I need that time to see if my plan works. A devilish grin lifts my lips.
“Come on, dance with me.” I take her glass from her hand and place our glasses on a server tray before threading our fingers and leading her onto the dance floor.
“Declan, I always wanted to attend masquerade balls. My dad used to take my mom to these events. She looked stunning in her gown, and he was so dashing in his tux.” Her smile falters, a shadow passing over her expression.
“Hey,” I say, pulling her closer. “You and I can come to the next one.”
She grins up at me like I just told her she won the lottery. Fuck, she’s one of a kind.
As the music fades, she stops abruptly and pulls the burner phone from her small clutch. Her face hardens as she looks at the screen. “Declan, he’s here.”
I tap the discreet earpiece in my ear. “Glenn’s here,” I inform my brothers.
“We’re in position,” each of them replies in turn.
At the bar, I spot Hassle flirting with a dark-haired woman, his notorious weakness.
“Hassle,” I growl into the mic.
“I’m focused, brother,” he grits out.
Meridea turns to me, her voice calm but firm. “Declan, you have to let Glenn think I’m alone, or we won’t be able to capture the rest of his crew.”
My jaw tightens at her words. The thought of her being anywhere near that monster makes my blood boil.
“Okay, I’ll blend into the crowd,” I tell her.
