Page 65 of Undercover Savior

Gus grinned. “It would be her fondest Christmas memory to do so here in Thistle Gate.”

“What a lovely name for it,” Sullivan said, looking around the cottage that had never looked cozier.

“One I don’t recall having heard before,” I said. “Gus reminded me of it a few days ago.”

“Only after my mum reminded me.”

I took our bags to the largest of the three bedrooms while Gus gave Sullivan the rundown on the security systems recently installed, including setting up access.

“This is also for you,” I said, walking over to the table where a mobile sat.

Before we left London, I asked Sullivan how she felt about not being with her parents for Christmas. She responded that she hadn’t been for the last few years and it wasn’t an issue. I’d already requested Gus arrange for her to have a secure mobile, but I especially wanted it to be here when we arrived after she said she did wish she could call them.

“If there’s nothing else you need, I’ll be on my way,” said Gus. I’d already checked the kitchen and noted there was enough food prepared that the two of us wouldn’t have to do our own cooking for several days, unless Sullivan decided she wanted to. I’d be happy either way. Truthfully, apart from needing sustenance, just being with her was all that mattered. Especially alone.

“Do the accommodations suit?” I asked when Gus stepped outside.

“It couldn’t be nicer, David. I appreciate this more than you’ll ever know.”

“I hope you can feel somewhat at home here.”

She laughed. “You’ll regret those words should I truly make myself comfortable.”

“Ah, yes, I recall you saying your flat was unorganized.”

She raised a brow. “And that is being generous.”

I squared my shoulders and raised my chin before gathering her in my arms. “I’m an SIS Sniper. I have no fear.” We kissed in the same way we had been for the last couple of days. With passion and a complete lack of propriety, which I was reminded of when Gus opened the door and cleared his throat.

“Your mum’s hot chocolate recipe,” he said, handing me a thermos. It wasn’t among the things I’d requested, but seeing the smile on Sullivan’s face, I was very grateful he’d thought of it. Although it was more likely Mrs. Drummond who had.

“Many thanks,” I repeated, escorting him to the door.

“Con is equally anxious to meet as Fallon is,” he said quietly.

“Noted.”

When I turned around, I saw Sullivan had removed her coat and was warming herself near the fireplace. “This couldn’t be more ideal. Thank you,” she said when I came up behind her and wrapped my arms around her waist.

“Can I interest you in hot chocolate?”

“I’d love it. May I?” She motioned to the boxes.

“By all means.”

I poured two cups of cocoa and uncovered a plate I correctly guessed hid Christmas cookies, then carried all three into the living room.

When Sullivan held up an ornament, I saw her eyes were misty. “This is from your first Christmas.”

I set the cups and plate on the table, then took it from her hand. It was a glass baby shoe, and written on the bottom was my date of birth, weight, and length. “Funny how it takes me back. I’ve forgotten so much about the time before my mum passed.”

After Sullivanand I finished placing the ornaments and had devoured most of Mrs. Drummond’s cookies, we made love in front of the fireplace. The glow of it and the lights on the tree on Sullivan’s naked body made one of the most beautiful things I’d ever seen. Every minute I spent with her, I struggled not to confess my undying love for her. Instead, I lavished it on her with every touch of my hands, my mouth, and cock. With every special surprise I’d arranged and with every gaze when our eyes met. The best part was that I felt that love coming from her in the same way.

Despite wantingto use the excuse that it was Christmas Eve to beg off meeting with the guys and Fallon, I’d rather do it today than on Christmas.

When I broached the subject with Sullivan. She lamented the timing like I had, but concurred today would be preferable over tomorrow.

“How would you like to spend Christmas?” I asked, knowing a big gathering wouldn’t be prudent from a security standpointbut that we might be able to have dinner with Gus and his mum at the castle.

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