She raised up on her toes, pressing her lips to his. And there it was again, that incendiary heat from earlier. That electric buzz coursing through her body from wherever Asher touched her. Though she was the one to initiate, he took control quickly and Clea melted into him, yielding to his passion as he kissed her senseless.
When they came up for air, Clea chased Asher’s lips, feeling dazed in the best possible way. Lightheaded with pleasure and lust. She could kiss him like that for the rest of her life and be just fine. She really could.
Asher’s low chuckle did something to her, sending a shot of warmth straight to her core.
“Come on, precious.” He kissed her forehead before scooping her into his arms.
Clea nestled against Asher’s bare chest, appreciating his masculine scent and the way he cradled her close as he carried her through his house.
And what a house it was.
Open, spacious, tastefully decorated with a blend of antique and modern furniture that somehow worked. The interior was a far cry from what she’d expected when they’d arrived.
While the exterior was made of timber beams, and there was a huge wood-burning fireplace in the living room, calling this place a cabin had definitely been an understatement. It was clear from the furnishings alone that Asher had an affinity for the finer things. And didn’t that just make her like him even more?
“I like your decorating style.” Clea smiled, appreciating the King Rococo mantel in the bedroom. “Is that breccia on the fireplace?”
“You know your stones.” He kissed her forehead again as he took her into the bathroom.
“Oh, my heavens.” Clea exclaimed, unable to contain her delight at the space. “This is incredible, Asher.”
While it was minimally decorated, the bathroom exuded luxury with its earthy and eclectic blend of marble, glass, and wood. It even had a chandelier made of tree branches and cut crystals.
“I’m glad you like it.” He smiled, setting her on her feet and holding her close. “Now,” He gazed down into her face, and Clea fought the urge to kiss him again. “Would you like bubbles or bath salts?”
“Mmm,” she groaned, already imagining sinking into that enormous tub. “I like both. Why don’t you surprise me?”
“Alright then.” He grinned. “You have a seat while I draw you a bath.”
Clea settled into the armchair he’d indicated, wondering if he’d watch her bathe. It would be better if he joined her.
There was something lovely about the way he glanced at her while checking the water, as though he wanted to please her. Or eat her. And she was fine with that, too. Clea shifted in the chair, angling her hips and widening her legs, appreciating the way Asher’s gaze followed her movement, the desire in his eyes.
“Careful, Duchess.” His voice was low, husky. “When I get started again, I won’t want to stop.”
“That’s fine by me.” Damn, her voice was lower, too. There was something about him that lit her up in the best way.
Something about him that made her want.
Asher shook his head as though trying to clear it before coming over and scooping her into his arms again. Clea arched against him, relishing the feel of his skin on hers as he carried her.
And then he was setting her into the tub even though it was only half full.
While the hot water felt incredible, Clea found herself pouting as Asher withdrew.
“You’re not joining me?”
“Soon.” The promise in his voice spoke right to her core and Clea shivered with anticipation. “You relax, precious. I’ll be back soon.”
“Wait, you’re leaving?” She frowned, wondering where he’d go. It’s not like there were any shops around, they were in the middle of the woods.
“I’m just going to get us something to drink.” He reached out, gathering her hair and gently twisting it into a knot near the top of her head. “How’s that?” he asked. “Is it too tight? I don’t know where your hair tie went.”
“It’s fine.” She smiled, appreciating the way he’d tended to her. “And I have more in my bag.”
“I’ll get it for you.” He smiled. “You just relax.”
Clea grabbed his arm as he started to stand.
