I took a step away on purpose, smiling as I brought the bottle to my lips. “I’m curious.”
“About what?”
“About what you’re thinking at this very moment.”
“That’s easy,” she all but whispered in a darker, huskier tone. When she brought the martini glass to her lips, I took and held a deep breath. The ache in my balls was even more significant, testing my resolve. That was exactly what she’d intended on doing. “That you believe it’s your right to be in control of everything and everyone.”
“Very astute. I see we’re kindred spirits.” My hand came up, brushing a strand of hair from her face. She pulled away on purpose, taking a deep breath. Even smiling when I slowly curled my fingers.
“You’re right. I do enjoy control in all aspects of my life.”
Very slowly, I shook my head back and forth. “You’re lying.”
“What would I be lying about?”
“The aspect of control. You much prefer giving it to a man, but only if you consider him the right one.”
“The right one? My, soverycocky of you.”
“Just truthful, which I pride myself in being. You crave a man who understands your wants and needs, allowing you control while teaching you to be completely obedient.”
“Obedient.” Her laugh sent a flurry of current through my system, stiffening my muscles. “Then you truly don’t know me very well. Not at all.”
“You would be wrong.”
“You’re very certain of yourself, Mr. Smokejumper.”
“I’ve had years of practice and experience. So tell me, what am I so wrong about, Palomino Girl? Even as we speak, I can tell your panties are damp, the ache between your legs dull yet unforgiving. Your nipples are hard, sweet, delicious pebbles that have become increasingly uncomfortable.” I dropped my gaze on purpose to her hardened buds, which were protruding through the thin material of her blouse. “Succulent and in need of being pinched and twisted. You do enjoy a little pain with your pleasure. Yes?”
When she didn’t answer right away, I lifted my gaze, my upper lip curling when I did.
She was clearly uncomfortable, her scent of desire keeping my mouth watering.
“See? You’re very wrong about me. Very wrong indeed.”
I slipped my hand around her back, pulling her closer. “Am I? I’m afraid your body is betraying you.”
She stole a quick glance down. “I don’t appear to be in any distress.”
“Then I guess I’m not doing it very well.”
“You have me curious. What are you attempting to do?”
I fisted the back of her hair, pulling her onto her tiptoes. “I’m not attempting, Kenzie. I’m promising. I plan on seducing you.”
CHAPTER 17
Kenzie
A man on a mission.
That’s exactly the way it felt around Axe. More so tonight.
His self confidence in his desires was extremely attractive.
He wasn’t himself, consumed by what he’d endured in less than forty-eight hours. But he was willing, even eager to chuck it aside if only for tonight.
With me.
