But I only make it halfway to the floor when I’m stopped short, Ryker’s massive hands grasping my waist.
My wide eyes meet his as I stare up, my body dangling halfway to the floor like he’s dipping me.
“What are you doing?”
“Catching you.”
“Oh. Right. Why were your hands on my back?”
“Because…you were obviously struggling with the buttons.” He quirks his brow again, the look softening him in ways I never imagined.
“You were helping me?” I ask, which is a stupid question. He’s just said as much.
“You’re mine to protect, wife,” he rumbles deep and low. This time, the word wife does something to me deep inside.
I flutter.
Melt.
Yearn.
I didn’t even realize my hands had come to his biceps until I flex my fingers, feeling the thickness of the muscles under my fingertips. “Really?”
“Really. Was your brother not clear? This entire arrangement is for your protection.”
“My brother?” But the moment is lost at the mention of Dimitri.
My protection is a farce, a cover for his business interest. And Ryker hasn’t even pretended. Which I appreciate, but it means I know the truth. None of this is for me.
At least he’s been honest. He will protect me for now, and once my father is neutralized, we’ll part ways, both of us hopefully richer.
I’ve never been very good at undisclosed motives and so I’m thankful that I know the deal we’re making right from the start.
It helps.
“I need to ask you…” I start, licking my lips…
His gaze catches my tongue and goes dark again. I stiffen away as best I can.
He must feel it, because he eases me up and then turns me around. I resist for a half second before he clasps my shoulders. “I’m just going to undo the buttons.”
With a small nod, I turn, his fingers coming to the row of tiny pearls. I tip my head forward, his touch light enough, that I actually find his fingers relaxing.
“Sasha?”
“Yeah?” my eyes are closed, my body relaxing.
“They’re not coming undone.”
“What?” I ask, lifting my head in confusion. This dress will not let me go.
“Do you care if I rip it?”
“Rip the dress?” I think it might give me great pleasure to tear this thing to shreds. “Go for it.”
“All right,” he answers and then with a quick jerk, the dress gives, the cool air hitting my back.
It feels so good, that air.
