Page 46 of Impure Love

"Good girl," I murmur, reaching out to run a finger down her arm. She shivers at my touch, a reaction that sends a thrill through me.

I pull her closer until she stands between my spread legs, my hands gripping her waist firmly. Her breath hitches, and I savor the tension radiating from her.

"Do you know how much you've pleased me?" I murmur, holding her gaze. "The information you gave me about the Vitales—it means a hell of a lot in my world."

Her eyes widen with surprise and cautious relief. She swallows hard, clearly unsure of how to respond.

"Your loyalty," I continue, my voice dropping to a low growl, "deserves a reward."

She blinks, a flicker of hope in her eyes. "A reward?" she echoes, voice barely above a whisper.

"Yes," I say, running a thumb along her jawline. "From now on, you have the freedom to move around the mansion."

Her eyes light up, but I tighten my grip on her waist, ensuring she understands there's a catch. "However, when I call, you bring your sexy ass running. Understood?"

She nods, the relief in her expression almost palpable. "Understood," she whispers.

I lean back, watching the effect my words have on her. The tension in her shoulders eases, and a tentative smile tugs at her lips. It’s fascinating, seeing the mix of fear and gratitude in her eyes.

"What are you thinking?" I ask, genuinely curious. "You look like you're about to cry and laugh at the same time."

She hesitates, then finally speaks. "I—I’m just relieved. And grateful," she admits, voice trembling slightly. "I didn't expect this."

I tilt my head, studying her. "What did you expect?"

"I don't know," she admits, eyes dropping to the floor. "More punishment, maybe. Less freedom."

I chuckle, the sound dark and amused. "You've earned it. And I always reward loyalty."

Her eyes meet mine again, filled with a strange mix of emotions. She’s trying to figure me out, and I can see the struggle in her gaze.

As I watch her, a thought crosses my mind. What would a date with her be like? Taking her out, seeing her in a different setting, away from the constant tension of my world. The idea is both intriguing and unexpected.

"You know," I say, voice thoughtful, "I wonder what a date with you would be like."

Her eyes widen in shock, clearly not expecting that. "A date?"

"Yes," I reply, a smirk playing on my lips. "An actual date. Dinner, maybe a show. Something normal."

She stares at me, clearly stunned. "Why would you want that?"

"Why not?" I counter, leaning back in my chair. "I want to see you in a different light."

She bites her lip, clearly unsure how to respond. The uncertainty in her eyes is almost endearing.

Tomorrow, I decide. I’ll take her to the exclusive Russo-owned restaurant. One my father had a hand in acquiring before his mysterious murder. The implication of taking Aliyah somewhere meaningful is strange to me, and I shake the thoughts off. It’ll be a perfect opportunity to show off my prize.

"Marco," I call out, my voice echoing through the study.

He steps in, always punctual. "Yes, boss?"

"I want reservations at Il Sogno for tomorrow night. Make sure everything is perfect," I instruct, leaning back in my chair.

Marco nods, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Anything specific, boss?"

"A private room. And tell them to prepare the best wine," I add, the image of Aliyah in a luxurious setting forming in my mind. "And flowers. Lots of them."

"Understood," Marco replies, already jotting down the details.

---