Page 18 of Mine to Keep

“I’d like to watch a movie before bedtime, Pet.”

“I’d like that.”

“I’ll let you choose it as long as it’s not a chick flick,” he said and grinned.

She rolled her eyes. “Fine.”

“I want to kiss you in the worst way, but I’m afraid it will get out of control, and I don’t want our first time to be here. I want us in our bed.”

He reached out to grab onto her glass when she started to shake.

“Easy, Pet. I won’t do anything until you’re ready. Okay?”

She nodded. “Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course,” he said. “There is nothing you can’t ask me.”

“How did you know I was normal?”

“When you woke up from being drugged, you sounded like a normal woman. I could tell your intelligence was higher than you wanted me to believe. So, when you started acting, it was obvious to me that it was an act.”

“I’m sorry if I deceived you,” she murmured.

“I understand. You had no idea about the situation, and you were trying to protect yourself.”

“So, you are pleased?” she asked.

“I would have taken you either way, but yes. I’m very pleased you are not permanently damaged.”

“I wonder what my father will do when he finds out I’ve deceived him all these years.”

“He doesn’t have to know.”

“Won’t your father tell him?” she asked.

“We won’t tell anyone. Just the two of us will know. My father is not very observant, so I doubt he’ll catch on.”

“Okay.”

“I have some more work to take care of. Is there anything you’d like to do?”

“Not really. I’m fine reading.”

“I’ve got plenty of books to choose from.”

He handed her a tart. “Try one of these. They are some of my favorites.”

His taste buds came alive at the first bite of the sweet and tart taste. He could tell by the smile on her face that she liked them, too.

When they finished, he packed up everything and stood, holding a hand out to her. Without hesitating, she reached for him. Instead of releasing her, he tightened his grip and pulled her snugly against his body. He tilted her head back before lowering his head. The first touch of their lips sent a current of desire down his body.

He had no idea how long they kissed and only stopped when he heard her moan. Roland stared down at her lovely face and smiled. Her face was rosy with desire, and her eyes closed. He waited for her to look at him and then smiled gently.

“I think you like my kisses,” he murmured.

He bit back a groan when her tongue peeked out and slid over her lips, tasting him.

“I’ll give you all the kisses you want, Pet.”

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