Page 67 of My Favorite Kidnapper

I looked out the terrace doors, spying Brianna sitting at the table. She was staring at the water, and I wondered what she was thinking. I took a bottle of white wine from the chiller, grabbed a couple of glasses, and headed outside to join her.

She smiled at me as I sat down. “Found the taste tester?”

“Delicious,” I replied, “but how did you know?”

She leaned over and ran her finger along the edge of my mouth. “You missed a bit.”

I captured her hand and licked the icing from her finger. “Incredible now.”

I loved how the color crept up her cheeks, and she glanced back at the pool. “Would you really teach me how to swim?”

I pushed a glass of wine her way. “Yes.”

“Can we start tomorrow?”

“We can start anytime.”

“Tomorrow is good.”

“I had Gia take out some steaks for dinner. I’ll grill.”

“I’m getting spoiled,” she murmured.

“Good.”

“I texted with Carolina, she’s fine,” she said, surprising me.

“What did you say?”

She pushed her phone my way. “Read it yourself.”

I read her texts. “You shut her down quickly.”

Brianna shrugged. “What did you expect me to do? Tell her the truth? You’re right—we’re past that now. I’m here, and I wasn’t lying. I’m fine. I’m happy and I’m baking.”

I tugged her chair closer. “I’m glad you’re here.” I cupped her head and kissed her, ravishing her mouth. “I’m glad you’re happy.” I kissed her again. “And I’m fucking thrilled you’re baking.”

“Potty mouth,” she mumbled, but she smiled.

We were quiet for a while. That was something else I adored about Brianna. She didn’t chatter. Try to fill in silence with unneeded conversation. Unlike many women her age, she was comfortable with the quiet. Being in the moment. She tilted her head back, the sun playing on her dark hair. Unable to resist, I lifted one heavy pigtail. “You have lovely hair.”

“It’s long and brown. Dull.”

“No,” I protested. “It has reds and golds in it. The sun highlights the colors. It’s very attractive.”

“Hmm,” she responded, noncommittal.

“Do we need another lesson in front of the mirror, Little Bee?”

Her fast inhale of air made me grin. I had enjoyed our little mirror time. Next time, I’d get her to ride me. I’d enjoy that.

“No, thank you,” she said in her prim voice.

I leaned over and kissed her neck, feeling her shiver. “Liar,” I whispered into her ear.

I was rewarded with her glare. I loved her fire, especially when it was directed at me. She came to life, and I wanted to stoke her passion.

“I’m going for a swim,” she said.