No, and that perturbed me almost as much as the fact a tiny part of me wanted to defy him, to find a way to surpass his security system and guards and disappear. Did I actually crave him hunting me in some twisted primal game? While in the shower as the harsh beads of water had cascaded across my aching and swollen nipples, I’d discovered the answer.
That’s exactly what a portion of me wanted. The girl who’d never done anything wrong in her life, short of sneaking cookies from the cute ceramic pig jar my mother always kept on the counter.
A good girl and high achiever, never associating with the bad boy, even though there wasn’t a girl on this earth who didn’t hunger for a taste of one.
Even now with every step taken, I was reminded of the harsh spanking I’d received. I should feel furious and incensed he’d treated me like a child, but I didn’t.
The leash was short but at least I’d been allowed to walk outside, enjoying the bright sunshine and the kiss of warmth against my skin. His backyard was a glorious adventure of pristine landscaping, with flowering shrubs, trees, and beautiful flowers in vibrant colors creatively designed to give a taste of paradise.
The immaculate lawn was so green the turf didn’t seem real, as if colored by the perfect pencil on a blank canvas, soft like crushed velvet against my bare feet.
With a natural fountain with a small waterfall, and wooden benches and chairs in strategic positions to enjoy sculpted designs, the serene environment had become a comforting respite.
I’d found shelves of books in his house, his selection a strange foray into his eclectic tastes. Somehow, I knew instinctively he’d read every single book; they weren’t just props to provide a touch of warmth. There were classics and thrillers, nonfiction and even horror from the most notable authors across a broad spectrum.
My selection was strangely appealing, the originalDracula. Maybe after calling Alexander a monster I needed a comparison to ensure I was correct.
The Adirondack chair was perfect, the wood swallowing my body as I settled in, uncertain when he’d return. When not infuriatedwith me, he was a quiet man, his eyes forever watching. I’d found that curiously seductive in ways that would have annoyed me earlier.
There were still watchful eyes on me even in his absence. I’d seen several men outside the windows, more dotted throughout the backyard, trying their best to blend in so I wouldn’t be uncomfortable. While I knew guarding their master was a part of their job, I had a feeling they were unused to having guests they needed to both protect and keep imprisoned.
None had the nerve to look me in the eyes when I passed within a few feet. Something deep inside told me that Alexander had been very clear and forceful in his commands. I belonged to him and if any guard dared so much as to look at me inappropriately, they would lose more than their jobs.
The thought alone brought a little thrill, which was completely ridiculous.
They were always in sight yet nothing more than statues, huge men carrying weapons. Completely prepared to deal with anyone who dared invade Alexander’s space.
Now that I’d gotten to know him a little better, I could tell the house and every piece of furniture, every color selection for the walls and every piece of art reflected his personality more appropriately than I’d initially believed.
Everything was masculine and upon first look, one would think devoid of any emotion or creativity. But they’d be so wrong.
The atmosphere screamed of power and opulence, a strong personality that accepted nothing less than perfection. Why did that excite me so much?
As the light breeze tickled my skin, scattering incredible scents on all sides, I lost myself in the book. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d bothered to sit down and enjoy getting away from the rest of the world. It had been months. Maybe years. I’d spent all my free time working with few exceptions.
I was used to my space and my things, crowding around my kitchen or coffee table, barely watching whatever television show I’d turned on in the background. My head buried in files, notes, and the screen on the laptop. I’d been more of a prisoner then, and one of my own making.
A few minutes later, another scent captured my attention. Masculine and inviting, the fragrance wafted over me and ignited another wave of desire. Citrus and spice, a hint of the forest and all male.
Him.
He’d returned.
I slowly closed the book, noting the page I was on, so I didn’t dare dog-ear something so precious. When I looked up, I realized his men had all disappeared. No longer needed or wanted.
He was completely silent, but I knew he was there.
Wanting.
Hungering.
He’d promised to show his innocence while providing a rare glimpse into his life and I’d never wanted anything as much.
How strange in two short days, everything had changed.
As soon as I stood and turned, I was taken aback by the sight of him.
He’d left the house in a signature dark suit, every inch of him utter perfection. Now he stood in dark jeans and a black shirt that oozed of sex appeal. While he was dangerously still, his dark eyes immediately penetrating mine, there was no anger in them.
