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“So where are you planning to take me?”
“A movie.” She smiled.
“I don’t remember the last time I’ve been to a movie.”
We were driving an hour later when we pulled up to the airport. “I thought you said we were going to a movie.”
“We are, but in California. A business associate of mine and I have some matters to discuss.”
“And you want me to sit in a hotel and wait for you while you handle ‘business’?”
“No, I planned on making it a nice little getaway for us. Have you ever been to LA?”
“No.” She paused before she added, “So we’re only really going because you have a meeting there.”
“Yes, but would you rather I left you at home until I get back in three days?”
“No,” she huffed.
“Well, then. Lighten up, Wife, and let’s have some fun.” She gave me a glimmer of a smile, and I’d take that. I uprooted her life, so I understood her reluctance to trust and feel for me, but I was working on earning her love. It would take a long time, but I was a patient man.
“I can do that.”
“Good. Now let’s fly.” We boarded for the short flight to California, and before she could pick her seat. I pointed at the one next to mine. “Here.”
She sat down and grabbed her seatbelt and buckled herself in before looking back up at me.
“Comfortable?”
“Almost. I could use something to drink.”
“What would you like?”
“Do you have diet soda?” Mariana asked, biting down on her bottom lip.
“Sure.” I pressed the button, and my flight attendant entered.
“Don Lupo, it’s my pleasure to serve you.”
“My wife would like a diet soda.” Her eyes darted straight at my wife with her mouth parted in shock and a twist of anger.
“Um…we are all out.” I knew we weren’t because I’d requested her favorites before the flight. She hadn’t even bothered to look.
“Get the fuck off my plane now. You’re fired.”
“What? I’m sorry. I mean they aren’t cold, Sir.”
“I said get the fuck off my plane. I didn’t miss the look you gave her. If you don’t get off now, I’ll throw you off mid flight.” She scrambled just as the plane began taxiing. I pressed the button for the cockpit. “We have an unwanted guest on board. Stop, so they can get out.” The pilot did as I requested, and the flight steps were lowered. I would have thrown her out, but it would be too risky at the airport.
The moment she was gone, Mariana stared at me, brows raised and head tilted. “I won’t have anyone disrespect you.” She nodded and then clamped her lips shut.
“So, is there something to drink?”
“I’ll be right back.” I stalked toward the galley and opened the mini fridge. Inside were plenty of zero-sugar sodas. I grabbed her favorite and snagged a water bottle for myself. It wasn’t a long flight, but I had two calls to make.
“Here you go, Wife.” I set it in her hand, my fingers lightly gliding against hers. The insane pleasure I received should be a damn crime. My pulse raced and my heart pounded like I consumed too much caffeine.
“Thank you, Husband.” A low growl ripped through my throat. I quickly took a seat before the joy from calling me husband was visible. She dipped her eyes to her drink, avoiding my gaze.
