Page 92 of King of Obsession

I met her fierce gaze. ‘But we have to be careful. Stay hidden; gather intel only. No engaging unless necessary.’

She nodded. ‘Understood. I’m not looking to play hero, Alessio. I just can’t let you walk into danger alone. Not after everything and your injury.’

Her words sent a pang through my chest.

After all, she’d been through, all the shit and heartache she carried, Cleo still had my back without hesitation.

I jolted, reaching across the table, capturing her hand, and bringing it to my lips.

‘Sei fantastico. I’m honored to have you with me.’ I quirked with a half-smile. ‘There’s no one else I’d rather have watching my six. Now let’s get geared up and head out before the day escapes us.’

Cleo returned my smirk, her moxie shining through. ‘Time to see what secrets the Conti’s property is hiding.’

She stood, the scrape of her chair decisive.

We took off just after 7 a.m. as mist rose over the grass.

Again, I was reminded of my time with the Italian military, how we’d tramped across the Alps at a high elevation not so different from this one.

We navigated the winding paths from Cleo’s acreage to the Conti homestead.

I took her hand, and she smiled as we navigated the brush around us. Which was alive with the sounds of hidden animals, the patter of invisible feet, and the trill of birds.

A comfortable silence settled, evidence of our growingcomfort and connection.

Also expanding in me was a ratcheting desire to love all of her.

At one point, I pulled her into my arms from behind.

‘What was that for?’ she murmured, facing me.

‘Call it innamorato cotto.’

‘Please explain,’ she invited in a whisper, dragging a finger across my lips. ‘What does it mean?’

‘What you think it does. Fotto, I want to make you come so hard when I get a chance.’

She ducked her head, a touch of shyness in her eyes.

‘Cleo.’

She twisted away from my rumbled growl with a roll of her eyes.

I caught the slight smile on her face and dragged her to me. ‘Where the hell do you think you’re going? I’m not done.’

She moved, eyes searching mine.

‘Mouth, now.’

She jolted against me.

‘Now?’

‘Right here. I want more.’

I raked her face, loving how her jade eyes deepened with lust, how her lips parted for me, how her cheeks dusted with a pink blush.

I reached a hand for her nape and tugged her to me.

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