Page 96 of Crave

“Nope.”

CHAPTER 45

LARA

Song, DIE FOR ME, Chase Atlantic

With Alexei’shand on the small of my back, he guides me into the vast building, separating us from the rest of the group. Every time I look back, he has a mischievous grin on his face.

Ushers guide us into the main room. Looking up, I am in awe as butterflies, trees, and the night sky are all beautifully projected on the ceiling, leaving me breathless.

With each step, we move forward, and the security guard acknowledges Mikhail’s presence with a nod. The red rope is untied, revealing our private bar area, nestled upstairs, offering an unparalleled view of the stage.

The booth has pink balloons and roses all scattered around and a “Happy Birthday Lara” banner with a flamingo on the side.

“This is so cute.” I want to squeal and jump up and down, but I stay reserved.

He rests his chin on my shoulder. “Cute, like me?”

I don’t even need to look to know he’s pouting.

When the back of his hand brushes against mine, I shiver. I want more.

It’s like we are the only two people in this room.

Sofia rushes over with two champagne glasses in hand and Alexei backs away, running his fingers through his loose curls. I miss the contact already.

“For the birthday girl.” She hands me a drink and then Alexei’s.

“Na zdorov’ye.For Health.” Alexei holds up his flute.

“Thank you.” I smile sweetly, with one sip my cheeks are on fire.

Holding onto the railing of our private balcony, I look out onto the stage and a buzz of excitement runs through me.

The room gets louder as everyone settles into their seats below.

“You like this band? The screamy ones you blast in the morning?” Alexei settles behind me, his musky aftershave filling my nose.

“I absolutely love them.”

He grabs the bars on either side of me, caging me in. “I’ve noticed. Jax seems obsessed, too. I can’t get away from them.”

“Sacred is one of the best bands in history. It’s more than just screaming. Listen to the lyrics, they speak to the soul.” There’s something that hits so hard when I listen to them. It’s as if they understand the pain I feel that I can’t express.

He sneaks a look behind him and then turns his attention back to me. As he smirks, his warm breath tickles my ear and he leans in, gently brushing my hair over my shoulder.

I let out a soft moan as his teeth graze the sensitive skin just behind my ear, sending waves of pleasure coursing through my body.

“Did you just bite me?”

“Yep. Leaving my mark on you. Don’t worry, I’ll leave more in places only we can see.”

“Mmm, that’s hot. I want more of them.” I am internally scorching right now.

“I know you do. I have a plan. I want you to be sitting there, still feeling what I did to you. Knowing it means you’re mine and I’ll kiss every single one better later.”

“You play cruel games, Alexei.”

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