Page 29 of Dark Seduction

"Don’t worry too much," Maura continues, her voice lowering slightly. "They might appear tough to outsiders, but once you’re part of their inner circle, they're incredibly protective."

I half-smile. "That's a nice thought, but I'm just Lev's PA. I hardly think that puts me in any inner circle."

Maura gives me a look and a smile that suggests she knows better. "Oh, I wouldn’t be so sure about that. I’ve seen the way he looks at you."

Her words catch me off guard, stirring a flutter of surprise and curiosity in my stomach.

Maura nods toward where everyone else is mingling. "Let’s head back," she says.

Chatting with her was a breath of fresh air. "It’s been really nice talking to you, Dalia," Maura tells me, her smile genuine.

"I feel the same," I reply, returning the smile and warmed by our conversation.

Heading back to the group, I feel a bit more relaxed thanks to Maura's kindness. Yet as I sneak a glance at Lev, I can't shake off the uncertainty about where I stand, especially after his distant behavior yesterday.

It doesn't take long before Lev sidles up next to me. "Glad to see you and Maura hit it off," he says, a hint of approval in his voice.

"Yeah, she’s really nice," I respond, glad that he noticed.

He gives a small nod, then his eyes wander down to my dress. "You really do look absolutely gorgeous tonight."

"Thanks," I manage, his penetrating gaze feeling like a physical touch.

Leaning in, his voice drops to a whisper. "Did you make it to La Seduction Lingerie like I suggested?" he asks, a predatory gleam in his eyes.

A blush creeps up my cheeks. "Yes, I did," I admit quietly.

"And what treasure did you find?" His curiosity hangs between us, thick and palpable.

I hesitate for a second, then share, "A midnight blue set.”

His eyes light up with dark mischief. "I can't wait to see you in it," he murmurs, his lusty tone sending shivers down my spine. “And out of it.”

"I’m not sure that’s a good idea," I reply, trying to keep it professional, but his commanding presence and proximity makes it hard to think straight.

He grins, that hungry, knowing smile. "I always get what I want, Dalia.”

Lev leans in closer, his lips barely brushing my ear, sending a thrill of anticipation through me. His voice is low and sultry, dripping with promise.

"If we were alone right now, I'd peel that stunning dress off you inch by torturous inch," he murmurs, his breath warm against my skin. "I’d explore every curve of your body with my tongue, tasting your sweet pussy until you’re writhing and begging for more."

His words ignite a fire within me, arousal washing over me in an overwhelming tide. The image of him doing just that—his hands and mouth all over me—makes my knees weak. My brand-new panties dampen as he continues, the huskiness in his voice expressing his barely contained desire.

"And when you’re desperate for it, I’d slide deep inside you, taking you hard and fast, until you scream my name."

His words send a fire racing through my veins, and I feel my face flush with heat. My body responds viscerally, my pulsequickening, a slick warmth spreading between my thighs.

But before I can reply to Lev's steamy whisper, he's all business again, checking to see if everyone's ready to head inside. I'm still standing there, dazed and more turned on than I should be, when I hear the distinct growl of motorcycles. Turning toward the noise, my heart drops.

Three bikers race down the street, pulling up sharp, right in front of the bustling crowd. They're decked out in all black, faces hidden behind dark shielded helmets. A cold wave of realization washes over me as I spot the guns they're casually brandishing. I grab Lev's arm, my fingers tight against his sleeve.

"Lev, look," I whisper urgently, trying to keep my voice steady despite the sudden spike of adrenaline.

His reaction is instantaneous, his body shielding me as the bikers wield their pistols.

The air cracks with gunfire as bullets begin to fly. Panic grips the crowd as screams and shouts fill the air, echoing through the night.

In the thick of the bedlam, the Ivanovs spring into action. Luk, despite the confusion and danger, manages to grab Maura. He yanks her behind a decorative statue, an improvised shield from the imminent danger.

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