Mutually satisfying sex is more like it. If I must surrender my body to a monster, I refuse to let him be the first to claim it.
I glance at Cristian.
He's checking the perimeter, unaware of my eyes on him.
I’ve thought men were handsome before, but Cristian is more than that.
When I look at him, it feels like all my neurons light up.
I tingle from head to toe.
I've caught him looking when he thinks I won't notice.
Not just a bodyguard checking on his client, but a flash of something primal in his dark eyes when I’m in his presence.
He's a man beneath that soldier's exterior, and men have weaknesses.
I mean, even Alessandro's most loyal dog must have desires, right?
I decide to test my theory. I make my way toward the pool.
As expected, his attention snaps to me.
“Don’t mind me,” I call out. “Just taking a swim.”
Heat shimmers off the patio surrounding the pool.
Without hesitation, I peel my sundress down my shoulders, over my hips, letting it pool at my feet.
The air kisses my nearly naked body as I stand in nothing but lace panties.
Cristian stands at attention near the garden entrance, pretending not to watch me.
His rigid posture only fuels my determination.
I wonder what it would take to make him lose his control.
“It’s so hot today.” I stretch, arching back, exposing my breasts, my body.
I’m baring it all.
Well, almost.
I wiggle my ass as I push my panties down and kick them off.
His eyes widen, jaw clenching tight. "Miss Dante?—"
I cut him off with a laugh and dive into the cool water.
The shock of it against my heated skin sends electricity through my veins.
I surface, slicking my hair back, feeling more alive than I have in weeks.
"Valentina!" Cristian hisses, scanning the perimeter frantically as he rushes toward the pool. "Anyone could see you."
"Let them look," I taunt, floating on my back, breasts breaking the water's surface. "I don’t really belong to myself anyway."
His face darkens. "You need to get out. Now."
