Page 23 of Allure

This time, Niko tried it at the same time as me, and when we looked up, we nodded in approval as we continued to eat and talk.

“So, I’m assuming we had to have some of the same responses to this question to be matched. But are you ready to start a family?” he asked before taking another bite.

“Absolutely. I feel like it's time. I’ve experienced all I can imagine in my career, so why not? I have so much I can give to my child or our child,” I responded.

“I feel the same way. It was one of the deciding factors in retiring. I felt that this game wouldn’t give me the time I desired for my kids. I want to be extremely present. I’m not saying it’s not possible. Players like Russell Wilson are doing it and many others, but I want to be there when my child lays down for bed, and when my wife is relaxing for the night, I want to be right there,” he said.

I heard his desires loud and clear, but I also heard something else behind it. Almost like he was a kid who didn’t get those things, so he wanted to make it his job to ensure that his children experienced it. I couldn’t say the same. My parents had been by my side every step of the way. I thanked God for them every day. I was one of the lucky ones, for sure.

“I hear you and I love to hear they made the best decision. Can I ask what made you go to Arranged Hearts?” I asked.

I knew my reasoning, but I knew how much access he had and this was a very unusual decision, even for me. Niko smiled and placed his fork down before clasping his hands in front of himself.

“I had heard good things about them, then I vetted them myself to make sure this was the best option for me and my future wife. Not to mention, they have like a 97 percent success rate so it was a no-brainer. You know, with being a celebrity, I could end up with someone who is trying to get my money and that’s it. I just wanted something real. What about you?” he asked.

I took another bite before responding.

“Honestly, I was way too busy to do the regular dating thing. Also, have you seen this dating pool? I am convinced there’s a little piss or shit in it. I would rather go to professionals, and like you said, have a better chance of finding someone who is on the same page as me.”

Niko smiled and leaned back. I looked away because his stare was always so damn intense, like he was looking through my soul, past everything I shared with him.

“You know it’s rude to just stare at people, right, Mr. Lockwood?” I asked.

Niko laughed and smirked, then moved his chair from the other side of the table to sit alongside me. I rolled my eyes as he leaned in to whisper in my ear and his right hand gripped my thigh. I felt my heart pick up pace at his closeness.

“Not when what and who you’re looking at belongs to you. I’m trying to be everything to you, baby. I can’t believe you’re mine and I’m going to treasure every second I am in your presence. You can believe that,” he whispered, then placed a kiss against my neck.

His hand had found its way beneath my dress and was inching toward my center. The moment he made it, I inhaled at his touch, ready to cum, and he hadn’t done a thing to me yet. I turned to face him as he strummed my clit a few times, getting a few moans out of me. The door opened and the waiter walked back in with new platters.

This man didn’t move fast from his position not one bit before he slid his hand from beneath the table. Then he had the nerve to lick my essence from his fingertips. I couldn’t pull my eyes from his even if I tried as the waiter moved our dishes to place our dessert.

“You can wrap those up and send them to the room. We’re going to finish dessert there,” Niko told him, never looking away.

“Yes, sir. I will send your leftovers as well. I hope you two love birds have a good night,” he said before excusing himself once again.

The moment he left the patio again, Niko leaned forward and kissed me like his life depended on it.

“I just can’t seem to get enough. Damn, you might as well prepare to be eaten up any chance I get.” He groaned against my lips.

“Oh, Mr. Lockwood. I’m counting on it.”

The moment we made our way back up to the room, I stopped again and looked over at Niko, who had a knowing smirk. The room was decorated for a movie night with our desserts on trays in front of the couch in the living room. I held my hand out for him so I could slip out of my shoes, then we walked into the living room, sitting in front of the large screen that he got them to bring up here.

“You’re just filled with surprises and I love every one of them. Thank you for listening to me,” I told him.

He reached for the remote, then handed it to me, but not before kissing me.

“You’re beyond welcome, baby. You don’t have to keep thanking me. This is what a man is supposed to do for his wife. You’re beyond even that to me. Now, what you want to watch? I got one movie in me before I’m gon’ need to sample that pussy again.”

I burst into laughter because I knew just how serious he was, but it was completely okay with me. I didn’t think I was going to make it through this movie, anyway. He had done more than enough to deserve everything I could give.

THE NEXT DAY…

As Niko and I strolled hand in hand through the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the sound of lively music and laughter caught our attention. We exchanged curious glances and followed the festive noise until we stumbled upon an impromptu street carnival. The atmosphere was electric, with colorful decorations hanging from the balconies and local vendors selling delicious-smelling food.

I couldn’t help but grin as I took in the scene before me. Locals were dancing in the street, their bodies moving in perfect sync with the upbeat rhythms of the music. The energy was contagious, and I found myself tapping my foot to the beat.

Niko must have noticed my enthusiasm because he suddenly tugged on my hand and pulled me toward the center of the celebration. “Come on, babe,” he said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Let’s dance!”

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