Page 75 of Carnal Risk

“They’re very restrictive,” she agreed.

“Indeed. Unnecessary.” He opened the container, displaying a shiny bauble. “I’m going to need your help, I’m afraid.”

“Is that an earring?” Dear God, she hoped it was an earring.

“What do you know about pearls?”

“Is this a test?”

“This is a rare natural pearl. Stunning. Unique. Again, like you.” Garrett fingered the small item, its creamy stone glittering against the gold. His palms grazed up over her thighs until he reached her hips. “This is a very special type of jewelry that I think we’ll both enjoy.”

“Garrett…what are you…ah,” she cried as he swept his thumb through her folds. Opening her lips, he revealed her pink nub. Selby clutched the soft leather seat as he blew warm air onto her wet skin.

“I love your pussy. So beautiful. I thought you might enjoy this.”

“What is that…no, no, no…ah…oh my God.” Selby sucked a breath as he slid the clip under her hood and tightened it down. She gripped the leather seat. The sensation of the cool metal against her throbbing clit sent her reeling.

“Easy, don’t move, sweetheart,” he told her, his tone firm. Garrett thrummed his thumb over the pearl and Selby raised her pelvis to meet his touch.

“I can’t wear this. Oh shit…please,” she breathed. “You’re going to make me…ah.”

As Garrett swiped his tongue over the bead, she stabbed her fingers into his hair. His raspy lash wasn’t enough to push her over the edge. Her orgasm building, she needed more. But instead of continuing, he pressed his lips to her mound and withdrew.

“No, no…wait, where are you going?” she protested. A mist beaded over her forehead and she groaned. Bringing her hands to her breasts, she squeezed them, but it did nothing to assuage the ache between her legs.

“I’m afraid we’ve arrived at our destination.” A broad smile broke across Garrett’s face. Carefully setting her dress back in place, he returned to his seat.

Selby leaned her head back against the leather and blew out a frustrated breath. He’d done this to her on purpose. Holy shit, I’ll never make it through the night, she thought.

“You’re evil.” She glared at him, and he laughed in response.

“Ah now, that’s not very nice. Would it help to know that I have something special to show you later?”

“Bastard,” she growled, not willing to concede that their interlude had come to an end. “You drive me crazy, you know that, right? I need to come.”

“And come you will. But not now. Here’s the driver.” The door opened and he leaned toward her, brushing his lips to her ear. Taking her hand, he slid it onto his erection. “Believe me, this is hurting me just as much as you. But waiting makes it all the more sweet.”

Selby palmed his cock through his trousers. “This is mine later, do you hear me?”

“All yours, baby. You ready?”

“An hour. I give you one hour.” She squeezed his shaft hard, owning it. “No longer. If I have to fuck you right out on the dance floor, this is happening.”

“You’re on,” he promised.

Selby sucked in the night air, attempting to quell her desire. She smiled as Garrett put a possessive arm around her, leading her into Altura. As the orchestra played in the distance, she optimistically dreamed of a world without danger and liars. Soon enough, it would come to an end. Later tonight, she’d go with Lars, and Garrett would become bait for a killer.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

As they stepped into the walls of Altura, Selby took in the sight of its dramatic transformation. No longer veiled in the dimness of candlelight, the elegant mansion flared to life with its crystal chandeliers and eclectic architecture. To her left in the ballroom, a grand soirée had commenced. An orchestra played upon its stage while partygoers danced.

As she followed Garrett to the right, they entered an enormous parlor, where white-gloved waiters passed epicurean delights on trays. Spectacular paintings graced the walls, and she hesitated, to confirm if the impressionist work was real. A grand piano sat majestically in the corner, its delicate keys in pristine condition.

Selby glanced out the window to the pool. Once again it was lit up, this time with floating candles set into wreaths of white flowers. In the courtyard, life-sized bronze statues of magnificent animals stood proud, illuminated under the glare of red spotlights. There was so much to look at that Selby barely registered Garrett calling her name as he handed her a glass of champagne.

“Sorry,” she managed, overwhelmed. “This place…I couldn’t see the last time. It’s unbelievable.”

“Thank you. Altura is like a chameleon. She can go backyard barbeque as easily as she does black tie. Tonight is one of the rare times outsiders are allowed within her walls. Many are employees or close personal friends, but they aren’t members.”