Page 34 of The Nanny's Bossy Billionaire

“So, what was that about earlier with the boys?” I keep my tone casual.

“Oh, they were just being silly. It was a game of poker. The loser has to take off a lucky girl’s garter later on,” he explains.

I see. “Did you play?”

“I didn’t lose if that’s what you’re asking.” He chuckles, and I release the breath I hadn’t realized I was holding. He traces the shell of my ear with his index finger, then curls his hand over my nape. “Ethan’s doing the honors.” Ethan is the tall, dark-haired guy in spectacles.

“I don’t see Bonnie yet?” Xavier asks.

“She’ll be here soon, she just texted me.” He nods, playing with the hair on my nape.

“What about Stella? Checked in on her?” I love that he’s interested in me enough to ask about my friends. Although I’d much rather talk about him and whatever is stressing him out.

“Yeah, I sent her photos of my room and the wedding venue.” I smile. “She’s insanely jealous but she’ll live. She’s got Cherise this weekend, so her hands are kind of full anyway.”

“Cherise the singer?” he asks.

“You bet your money it is.” My smile brightens.

“Wow.” He marvels. “Good for her.”

“I know. She’ll be out celebrating tonight. She’ll probably insist she take me out on another celebration night out since I’m missing out on this one.”

“It’ll be nice to take you on a date when we get back,” Xavier says.

“You don’t consider this a date?” I ask.

“I’ve hardly spent any time alone with you.”

My heart starts to pound. “Why do you want to spend time with me?”

Xavier laughs. “Why indeed?” He shakes his head, amused.

“No, really, I’m not your type. You said so yourself.”

“Not this again.” He throws his head back, taking a handful of his thick hair. Then he pins me with a searing look.

“Okay, here goes. No, you’re not my usual type, you’re Brooklyn. You’re funny and smart and sweet and sassy. You’re gentle yet fiery. You’re shy but also decadent and wanton. You’re sexy.” His voice lowers an octave. “Christ, you’re so fucking sexy you drive me insane. I want you, okay? That’s why I want to spend time with you. And I know you want me. So stop fighting this.” His other hand slips into my hair. “And stop running.”

I’m panting now. His words have ignited a fire in me. “I’m not running.”

“Yeah?” He looks deep into my eyes, his hands framing my face. “Come to me tonight then.”

My core clenches tightly at the dominance of his tone, and I want nothing more than to do his bidding. I’m scared by the intensity of what I feel for this man.

I bite my lip, and his gaze follows the movement. His thumb frees my lip, then rubs back and forth over it.

“Your mouth is sinfully sweet, you know.”

I knowhe’s thinking of when I had my mouth around him. I feel emboldened by the desire I see in his eyes. “I like the way you taste,” I say in a husky voice.

“Good.” He takes my lips, kissing me deeply, his tongue delving into my mouth to couple with mine. I moan, grabbing his wrists.

“Guys, behave.” I hear Zoey singsong as she approaches us. “Can’t be stealing the show. Don’t want to give that uptight wedding planner a fit.”

Xavier releases me, and I face Zoey, red-faced. Zoey shoos Xavier away to join the other groomsmen waiting for the cue to begin the procession. She grabs my hand as we head to our seats. “He is absolutely bonkers for you, Brooke. I couldn’t be happier he’s with someone like you.” She squeezes my hand tight. “Thank you,” she says as we take our seats.

Chapter Thirteen

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