‘Actually, Nate, can we talk about that in the new year?’ My brother’s generosity knows no bounds. He already bought me the apartment. It’s too much.
Him making me go it alone for the year was the best gift he could have given me – the ability to appreciate how capable I am and to grow into a confident businesswoman in my own right. The need to take my business to the next level alone has become an internal personal quest. I can do it, I know I can. I no longer need the emotional or financial support an investor brings.
‘Sure.’ He looks quizzically at me then shrugs. ‘Let me show you to your rooms. The rehearsal dinner is at five. Meet back here for the drinks reception at four.’
‘Where’s Tom Hardy?’ Bonnie peers past Nate’s broad shoulder.
He offers her the same hair ruffle as he did to me. ‘He’s around here somewhere. I’ll put in a good word for you.’
‘Never mind Tom Hardy.’ My mother ploughs into the lobby. ‘Where’s Jayden Cooper?’ Oh God, Penny Jackson has always had a soft spot for Nate’s agent.
‘He’s probably balls-deep in his wife, Mam.’ Nate rolls his eyes. ‘You’ll just have to make do with Dad again. Let’s hope he remembered to pack the Viagra this time.’
Sniggers ripple around the room. Even Cillian’s smiling, something which he seems to do a lot more of this past week or two.
‘Come on. Let’s go unpack.’Starting with your penis.I lick my lips and his eyes flare with understanding.
We excuse ourselves to ‘freshen up,’ ignoring the whistles and cat calls from my family. If they don’t scare Cillian off, perhaps nothing will.
Our room is on the second floor with a huge wraparound terrace and sweeping views of the ocean. The ensuite boasts marble counter tops, a deep soaking clawfoot tub and designer toiletries. A huge walk-in wardrobe provides ample storage space for the dresses I brought.
However luxurious the place is, the biggest luxury is having my boyfriend to myself for three days solid. I adore our time with Phoebe, truly, but this time together is a real treat.
The timing isn't ideal with Teagan leaving last week. A flash of guilt flows through me. Though, if Phoebe’s Santa wish is anything to go by, she seems to be getting stronger every day where her erratic mother is concerned.
‘How’s Phoebe? Is she okay at your mother’s house?’
‘She’s perfect, don’t worry.’ He stalks across the plush carpet to reach me. ‘I didn't come up here to talk about her.’
‘Oh, is that right?’ I slip off my knee-length coat, revealing the dress I picked out this morning with specifically this – alone time – in mind. ‘What did you come up here to talk about then?’
His eyes heat and flare as they roam over the sheer material clinging to my every curve. ‘Who said anything about talking?’ His lips brush over mine, owning them. ‘Talking is overrated. Show me what you’ve got on underneath that dress.’
His hand slides beneath the material. He inhales sharply as he skims over the silk suspender belt I put on this morning.
I take a step back, tugging the dress over my head, revealing myself to him.
‘So stunning, Ava.’ His finger traces between my breasts. ‘But I need you naked. I need your skin on my skin, every inch of it.’
He reaches round and unhooks the silk balconette bra, drawing its straps down over my shoulders until it falls to the floor with a gentle swish. My nipples peak at the cold, and under his hungry stare.
His mouth nips at my neck while his hands cup my breasts. I buck my hips against him and a low chortle echoes through his throat.
I nearly miss the sullen version. At least sullen Cillian got on with it.
‘Patience, baby, what’s the rush?’
‘I need you.’ My breath is heavy with want.‘My ovaries are about to explode.’
‘And you’ll have me at least twice before dinner.’ His finger dips inside my thong, teasing and probing. I part my legs, allowing him better access. ‘Did you touch yourself since I last touched you?’
My face flames and his eyes darken.
‘You did, didn't you?’
I nod, suddenly shy.
‘Did you pretend it was my hand?’ He drops to his knees on the floor in front of me, his head is in line with my belly button. ‘Or my mouth?’
