Though Vanessa smiled, the warmth didn’t reach her eyes. “A rain check,” she said and left the dance floor.
A tender love ballad broke the awkwardness. Without hesitating, Colton snaked both arms around Brigit’s waist. Though she wanted to run her hands along his shoulders, she left her arms dangling by her side.
“It’s easier and a lot more fun if you actually touch me.” The thickness in his voice landed at the apex between her legs.
I want him. So badly.
His smoldering stare sent a jolt of electricity pounding through her. “Here, let me help.” He draped her arm over his shoulder. “Your turn.”
Pursing her lips to hide the smile, she placed her other hand on his shoulder. Her body heated, but not from the warmth of his skin seeping through his cotton shirt and onto her fingers. Laying her hands on his strong, hard body cemented her decision.
Tonight she would sleep with the enemy.
His stare never left hers. Could he feel her unrelenting need? The song ended and the lights brightened. Some staff continued drinking and talking, while others headed upstairs.
The connection hummed between them and her heart kicked up speed. Time to make her move. “Thank you for the opportunity to interview and meet your staff.”
“Calling it a night?”
With a sly smile, she nodded.
“Are you tired?”
“No. You?”
As he shook his head, his gaze wandered from her eyes to her mouth, then back to her eyes. “Thirsty?”
Slowly, she nodded. “I’ll text Taylor for sparking water.”
His lips curved just enough to let her know he was amused. “Putting me through the paces, aren’t you?” He offered his arm and she gripped his bicep. Rather than heading upstairs, he led her out back, onto the cobblestone walkway.
The blast of frigid air against her overheated skin felt invigorating. The full moon shone through the swaying tree branches illuminating their way like dancing fireflies as they headed toward the light in the guesthouse cottage.
Halfway there, he stopped. Slowly, he pivoted toward her. His deep, dark pools confirmed she wanted this—she wantedhim—more than her next chilly breath. She squeezed his arm, set her sights on the house and continued forward in silence. He pressed a code on the keyless entry pad and the door clicked open. He pushed it wide and waited.
“No water in the main house?” She crossed the threshold.
“None.” He closed the door behind them. “Fortunately, I’ve stashed some bottles here. You know, for emergencies.”
“What a godsend! I can’t imagine having to drink tap water.”
On a chuckle, he held her hand and led her through the small foyer. Sizzling energy skirted up her arm. Her hand felt tiny nestled in his large one, but as soon as they entered the kitchen, she tugged her hand away.
“Shane whipped up a surprise dessert. Shall we be naughty and have a bite?”
He planned this.“Perhaps a nibble.”
Opening the refrigerator, he pulled out a tiramisu cake. “This is going to be a sweet, creamy delight.” He dragged his tongue over his lower lip.
Oh, God.Her insides quivered. They held eye contact for an extra second before he set the dessert on the table. While he sliced two pieces and placed them on dessert plates, she opened cupboards.
“Let me help.” As he stepped behind her, he opened an adjacent cupboard then pressed against her backside. The weight of his body stirred her insides. Though he set the glasses on the counter, he didn’t move away. Gulping down a breath, she turned around and peered into his eyes.
So close. So handsome. So wrong.
His rapid breathing blew wisps of her hair. Though desperate to kiss him, she would make him work for everything. “My, what a deep voice you have,” she said.
Up went his eyebrows. “Thank you, I think.” She waited for him to step back. He didn’t.
