I think Audra has realized what I’ve known from the start.
She’s my girl.
I’m her guy.
And this is officially a done deal.
14
AUDRA
Ifeel like a princess.
No…like Thane’s angel. He won't stop calling me that, or treating me like his. I love it.
My hand wraps firmly around his arm as we walk into the grand ballroom where the awards are being held. I've been dragged to dozens of these things, but it feels so much better having backup, especially when that backup comes in the form of a six-foot-four (and a half) hottie.
My mother has made me endure stylists and makeovers since my early teens. Today was the first time I enjoyed it – especially since the entire rack of clothing was suited to my tastes. Apparently, Thane told them that I like earth tones and loose, simple dresses.
As soon as we’re checked in, Thane slips an arm around my waist, pulling me slightly away from the crowd. "How are you doing, angel? Still okay about this?"
"Yes. Especially since you're here. I'm actually pretty comfortable."
He chuckles as I do a little twirl in my forest green dress. Compared to most of my clothing lately, it's pretty form fitting,but the buttery soft bamboo fabric feels as comfortable on my skin as a nightgown. I tap the edge of his shoe with my chunky heeled designer boot. "I like these a lot more than stilettos."
Stretching up, I give him a quick kiss, pulling away again before our indescribable heat can take over. "I really appreciate this."
"I’m glad. I need you to be happy and comfortable on my watch." His fingers tighten around my waist, then slip down a few inches to settle on my hip. "For the record, I’d like my watch to be all the time from now on, if you'll let me."
My palm lands in the center of his beautifully knotted silk tie. It’s a deep green that coordinates perfectly with my dress. Thane looks stunning. He still has that rough, wild spark in his eye, but his physique is even more impressive when barely restrained in a sleek black suit. He honestly looks like a movie star with his neatly trimmed beard and stylish new haircut.
"What exactly are you trying to say, big guy?"
"That I want you to stay on my mountain. Move in with me. Please?"
My low gasp echoes around the space surrounding us. He’s absolutely serious. This is a lot to take in.
He chuckles, pulling me close to kiss the top of my head. "Don't worry, I won't mess up your hair. I don't want you to answer right now, anyway. Let’s wait till this shindig is over, and we're home."
Home. As in…with him. This incredible man who makes me feel everything I’ve ever dreamed of feeling.
"Do you promise not to call this a shindig in front of my parents?”
"I promise nothing."
He takes my hand and then raises my wrist to examine my stack of bracelets. Nestled among the silver bangles and chains are the strings of blue and green glass beads.
“You brought…” He swallows hard.
“Of course. I’m going to wear my special gifts from my man every opportunity I get.”
His eyes shine. “Someday I’ll get you other jewelry to show you that I really, really,reallylike you.”
“Not necessary – butifyou do, make sure it goes with these.” I turn my wrist, examining the beads. “I’ll be wearing them for a very long time.”
I love the way Thane grips my waist possessively as he nods without another word. I also love the way he notices any time a man glances in my direction. There’s a subtle tightening of his hand that politely says,She’s with me – don’t get any ideas.
The room fills up fast, and we find our table near the front. My mother looks utterly shocked as we approach, then she and Dad both jump to their feet, openly analyzing Thane from head to toe in a way that makes my skin crawl.
