Unlocking the door, he ushered her into a charming foyer and a narrow passageway that led into an even more charming living room where the fire was simmering inside the hearth. Comfortable furnishings gave the place a cheerful appearance and a cozy look.
"Hungry?"
"Just a little tired. Is this place owned by the company?"
"Yes." He helped her off with her coat and went to hang them on the coat tree in the hallway.
"I thought we could sit by the fire a little bit before I give you the tour."
"I'd like that."
Pulling the neatly folded blankets off the sofa, he spread them out and added cushions. Drawing her down, he took off her boots and rubbed her feet. "Better?"
"Much."
She sighed when he took off his own shoes and came to lie next to her. Bringing her closer to him, he wrapped his arms around her and felt contentment stealing over him.
"Having fun?"
"Immensely." She inhaled his expensive cologne and closed her eyes. "Paris is magical."
"Hmm. It's different when it's viewed with someone who appreciates its astounding beauty." He tipped his head down to stare at her. "You're making it all new and shiny for me."
"I'm happy." Lifting her head, she propped her arms on his chest and examined his face. "I have to ask."
"Shoot."
"How many other women have you brought here?"
His brows lifted. "Why?"
She shrugged. "It's none of my business."
Lifting a hand, he trailed his fingers over her smooth cheek, loving the satiny feel of her skin. "Never here to this cottage. I brought two to Paris, but we stayed at one of the hotels. There are three in France. This place belonged to my great-grandfather. He lived here for a bit when he was a young man."
"I'm the first?"
He nodded.
"Why?"
"Because you're different. This is different. And now I want to make love to you by the fire."
"I would love that too." She whispered, feeling the erratic beating of her heart.
"Good." With his eyes trained on hers, he pushed her back gently on the cushions. "It seems I cannot get enough of you."
"I love that."
"Of course you do. Tell me you want me, darling."
Her heart thrilled at the endearment. "I want you, so much."
"I need you. The taste and feel of you." He traced the outline of her bottom lip before bending to touch his tongue to the fullness of it. When she trembled, he felt desire bursting inside him like a geyser.
Drawing back when she would have wrapped her hands around his neck, he took off her sweater, murmuring deep in his throat at the swell of flesh over the black lace.
"Very nice." Unhooking the clasp, he took it off and cupped the flesh, filling his palms with her. She felt warm and smelled like honey and desire. Deep, dark desire.
