This is the first time I’ve spent so much time outside my sitting room, playing to whatever mood would hit me—gloomy, inaccessible, despondent.
My fingers itch to play, missing the keys under my fingertips, giving my inspiration an outlet. My other nightly job is forgotten. But I don’t see the need when my brother is on his honeymoon, and Mika is in my bed. My need to watch the city cameras dimmed.
I stay planted on the bench, just watching the sun travel further west. I would never have guessed, but I like my newfound laziness. For the first time in a long time, it feels like I do more than function.
I miss you.
I type, and his reply is instant.
On my way back.
His text, tinged with desperation, inflates my chest with sheer delight. Now and then, Kill bumps his nose in my hand, demanding another treat.
“Don’t become like the men in the family. Always demanding,” I try to chastise him but fail, so I end up smiling and patting him on his head.
“Maybe it’s because of the women in the family.” His deep voice awakens hummingbirds to fly in my belly, and I palm it to make the unruly behavior stop.
I tilt my head to him, grinning—absolutely besotted with him. “Is that so…or maybe males are greedy creatures.”
“That we are when it comes to what we want.” He’s unapologetic and so male, exuding strength and sexuality. It takes everything in me not to jump him right here and now.
“You’ve been outside all day,” he states. “You okay?”
I shrug. “I’m perfect. Just felt like it.”
He moves to stand in front of me, shielding me from the sun. Cocking his head, he slips his hands in his pockets. “And what do you feel like doing right now?”
I bit my lip. “Going into the pool to cool down.”
He stretches out his hand to me, helping me up. “Then swim.”
Palming my hands on his chest, they travel down his chiseled frame. “So agreeable.”
He arches an arrogant brow. “Maybe having access to your pussy does that.”
A peal of laughter ripples from my chest. Immediately, I feel eyes on me, the guards assessing if there is danger, before the stares quickly vanish. Laughter has not been the norm at the compound.
That knowledge unlocks so many possibilities. Good that I can use my secret weapon now to get my way.
His eyes darken as if he can read my mind. “Don’t even think about manipulating me. You already get whatever you want. Fuck, I’ve spoiled you rotten, haven’t I?” Mika asks, but doesn’t sound regretful.
“And that’s on you.” I stick my tongue out.
He grips my chin, forcing me to look up. “Do that again, and I’ll bend you over this bench.”
A fury of desire overcomes me, causing me to burn up.
Licking my lips, I grip his collar. “Mister Morozov, remember where you are.”
He pins me with an unapologetic look. “Miss Ferrara, don’t make me throw you over my shoulder. I’ll give my explanation when my time is due, but until then…”
The threat heats the atmosphere between us, it becomes combustible.
I take off, needing to cool down more than ever.
Once I return, freshly changed into my bathing suit, I see him chatting with Lorenzo before he notices me. His eyes blaze as he strides to me.
Unknotting the front of my robe, the knitted beige material falls onto the lounge. I remain in my black swimsuit, with golden hooks intertwined along the sides of the bikini and on the straps of the bra, leaving little to the imagination.
