Page 53 of Only If You Dare

Jumeirah beach hotel was home to twenty restaurant and bars with six pools, a dive Centre, a spa, and gym, and of course its own private beach. As the night moved, I began to think Julian had planned this all out. Our four-course meal consisted of Bruschetta, an Italian dish made of grilled bread rubbed with garlic, topped with olive oil, salt, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. That was just the appetizer. An Italian romaine house salad that was prepared with lemon vinaigrette was complimentary. Our Entrée, a beef morcon for him and chicken Marsala for me, sizzled off our dishes. I was on the edge of being stuffed when our dessert arrived. It was unbelievable how my stomach made room for the triple chocolate cake we were presented with. I reached for my glass of red wine and took a hearty sip.

“I don’t think I can eat anymore,” I said although I’d already decided I would take at least two bites of the mouthwatering chocolate treat.

“It’s okay,” Julian said, “I’ll feed it to you later.”

I smiled, tinged with a warmth I was becoming accustomed to.

“Later?” I checked the time on my watch. It was 10:23. Any later than this would call for a night cap.

“You never know,” he drawled, “You may find yourself wanting a snack in the middle of the night.”

My stomach churned, and the thump between my thighs grew. I slid a hand behind my neck and absentmindedly fluffed my hair underneath my scarf. Julian sat back in his seat.

“Take a walk with me, Bella.”

He held his hand out, and I took it, wanting to go anywhere with him.

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