The click of her footsteps approaching signals she’s read my message. As she enters the room, I look up to see her green eyes holding curiosity rather than the suspicion I’m used to seeing. “A poker game? With your business associates?”
I nod. “High stakes. I thought you might enjoy a night out. See more of my world.”
She tilts her head, considering. “And why would I enjoy that?”
I step closer to her, feeling the warmth radiating from her body. “Because you’re my wife. And I want to include you in my life. All of it.”
Her breath catches, and I see something flicker in her eyes—interest, maybe even excitement.
“Fine,” she says, and this time there’s no edge to her voice. “I’ll go. But don’t expect me to just sit there and look pretty.”
I smirk. “I wouldn’t dream of it,bella. Now go get ready. Wear something... memorable.”
She rolls her eyes, but I catch a genuine smile playing at the corner of her mouth as she turns to leave. I watch her go, my blood thrumming with anticipation. Tonight feels different—like we’re finally moving forward instead of constantly circling each other.
I pour myself a scotch and settle in to wait, my mind already conjuring images of her commanding attention at the poker table.
Anticipation builds as I hear the click of heels on the marble floor. I turn and nearly drop my glass.
Carmela stands before me, a vision in a slinky black dress that hugs every curve. The neckline plunges dangerously low, revealing the swell of her breasts. A slit runs up her thigh, teasing a glimpse of smooth, tanned skin.
My mouth goes dry as I rake my gaze over her. She’s breathtaking. Stunning. I’ve never wanted a woman more.
I set my glass down and move toward her, my eyes locked on hers. “You look... incredible,” I murmur.
She lifts her chin, that familiar defiance still there but softened somehow. “I know.”
I chuckle. “Confident. I like that.” I reach out and trail a finger along her collarbone, feeling her shiver beneath my touch.
“This dress, baby... it’s sinful. You’re going to be the death of me.” I lean in, my lips brushing her ear. “Every man in that room is going to want you. But you’re mine.”
She sucks in a sharp breath, and I feel a thrill of satisfaction. I pull back, my eyes roaming her body appreciatively.
“Maybe I should take you upstairs and peel this dress off you. Slowly.” My voice is low and suggestive. “Worship every inch of your skin until you’re begging for more.”
Carmela swallows hard, her eyes darkening. But she steps back, a playful smile on her lips now rather than the angry retreat I’m used to.
“We have a poker game to get to, remember?” She asks.
I smirk, enjoying this new dynamic between us. “For now. But later... I make no promises about keeping my hands to myself.”
Her eyes sparkle with anticipation. “What makes you think I’d want you to?”
The shift in her response catches me off guard—in the best way. I step closer, invading her space until I can feel the heat radiating off her body. “You see, Carmela, I know you. I know the fire that burns inside you, the passion that consumes you. And I know that deep down, you crave the same thing I do.”
I reach out and run my fingers along her bare arm, feeling her tremble at my touch. “You want to be consumed by desire, to lose yourself in pleasure so intense it borders on pain. And I’m the only man who can give that to you.”
This time, she doesn’t scoff. Instead, she leans in slightly, her voice dropping. “You’re awfully sure of yourself.”
“With good reason,” I murmur, my lips a hairsbreadth from hers. “I’ve seen the way you look at me. Not with anger anymore—with hunger. You can deny it all you want, but we both know the truth.”
I pull back slightly, my eyes locked on hers. “So go ahead and make me work for it,piccina. I enjoy the chase. But we both know where this night is heading. Now, shall we? We have a poker game to attend, and I’m eager to show off my beautiful wife.”
I offer her my arm. She doesn’t hesitate this time, sliding her hand into the crook of my elbow.
As we make our way out to the car, I can’t help but feel a thrill. Tonight is going to be a turning point. And by the end of it, I’m determined to have Carmela in my bed—not simply sleeping beside me, but finally giving herself to me completely.
Once we arrive, I guide Carmela into the dimly lit room, the scent of cigars and whiskey hanging heavy in the air. The poker table is surrounded by some of the most powerful men in the city—my inner circle, the ones I trust with my life.
