We stay like that for a long moment, both breathing hard. Then, gently, he pulls out of me. Reaching for the tie around my wrists, pressing kisses to my exposed skin.
“How do you feel?” He asks.
“That was —” And again, I don’t have words. I feel boneless, satisfied, completely wrecked in all the best ways.
“Good.” He helps me fix my dress. “Let’s get you inside, cleaned up, and into bed.”
“I can —”
“Chloe,” his voice is soft but firm, “let me. Just stop. Let me take care of you for once.”
I don’t argue further as he whisks me out of the backseat and carries me through the quiet of the mansion. Cradled in his arms, I feel the safest I’ve ever felt.
When we reach my room, he uses his elbow to open the door, kicking it closed behind us. He sets me on my feet long enough to help me out of the dress — careful of my bandage, checking it to make sure the wound didn’t reopen.
“I’m fine,” I assure him. “You were careful.”
“Good.” He strips down to his boxers, muscles moving under tattooed skin, and I can’t help but stare.
“See something you like?” He smirks. The words bring back the memory of that day in the gym.
“Maybe,” I say flirtatiously.
He pulls back the covers on my bed. “Get in.”
There’s that tone again. I slide between the sheets, and he follows, pulling me against his chest.
“Basili,” I murmur, “you don’t have to stay.”
“Yes, I do.” His arms tighten around me. “What do you think I am? A barbarian? I’m not letting you sleep alone after what we just did. Not a chance, tesoro.”
I relax against him, into the warmth and safety of his embrace.
“Thank you,” I whisper.
“For what?”
“For choosing me.”
He presses a kiss to my hair. “Always, Chloe. I’ll always choose you.”
Chapter Seventeen
Basili
“Thank you for agreeing to this meeting, Mr. Tao.”
Delan’s face fills my computer screen, Shufen seated beside him. They’re in a very formal-looking office with all dark wood, walls adorned with expensive art.
Likewise, I sit in my own office, alone, the door locked. Omero is listening in from his office down the hall, ready to jump in if needed.
“Of course. I’d very much like to conclude our business.” Delan’s smile doesn’t reach his eyes as usual.
“That is what I wanted to discuss.” I keep my voice professional. “I’ve reconsidered the terms of our alliance, and I have some of my own to add.”
Shufen’s eyes flicker to her father, then back to the screen. Intuitively knowing what’s coming if she’s as smart as her little sister.
“I see.” Delan’s jaw tightens almost imperceptibly. “And what exactly have you reconsidered?”
