Page 7 of The Lieutenant

I did adore his laugh, the deep throaty sound suiting him.

“I’m never wrong. You’re already enjoying yourself.”

What a pompous jerk. Being gorgeous was no excuse.

“You might find yourself disappointed this evening. I’m a woman who enjoys being alone.”

“Self-assured? Bored with men? Happy to provide examples of how to rid yourself of male leeches?”

Just about everything regarding his attitude pissed me off. However, I prided myself in usually not making a scene. Usuallywith a capital U. This time, I leaned forward. Why not take back control? “Yes, yes, and a huge yes. Besides, most men can’t handle me.”

“Tsk. Tsk. I’m not most men.”

While I was mildly irritated, I was also fully aroused. The combination could prove to be dangerous. “Yes, I can see that. You’re much rougher around the edges.” I maintained my position, still able to stare him directly in the eyes.

Unfortunately for me, they were mesmerizing just like the man.

It was also unfortunate that he leaned even further over the table. A single piece of paper was the only thing capable of fitting between our lips. Why, oh why had I slipped into something more comfortable, which had included the loss of my bra in deference to the oh-so short cotton dress? My nipples were pushing hard against the thin material.

The light breeze lifted my long hair over both shoulders, strands whisking against his face. I had so many internal questions, including why his aftershave had awakened my senses. Bold and spicy, there were hints of citrus and chili pepper, a combination of cedar and sandalwood adding to the intoxicating combination.

We remained smack in the same position for an eternity. I wasn’t going to be the one to pull away. Maybe I was being too critical of him. I didn’t know him. The man could set the world on fire with his powerful aura alone.

“If I didn’t know better, I’d say you wanted me to kiss you,asteráki.”

Electricity rushed around our overheated bodies with the single statement. Now I pulled away, immediately reaching for the new glass of wine. “As I said, you might walk away highly disappointed.”

As smooth as a snake, he slowly eased his broad back against the chair, lifting his glass. “What is it that they say in France? Touché.” He continued to radiate sex appeal.

I smiled appreciatively and studied the man who’d accompanied him. He was definitely scanning the street. He was searching for someone. Maybe he had a sixth sense because he turned half his body, throwing me a strange yet demanding look.

“I don’t think Lurch likes that you’re having a drink with a woman.”

“Lurch? Interesting name. No, my bodyguard doesn’t appreciate my tastes in women, nor does he enjoy accommodating my needs on his night off.”

“Your needs?” A rush of heat crept up my face from the way he was looking at me. I was thankful it was too dark for him to notice.

“That I enjoy sitting and talking with an intelligent and beautiful woman without finding the need to take them to bed.” He’d just won the round.

I’d be damned if I wasn’t almost disappointed he hadn’t attempted to lure me into his bedroom. “Would you like me to explain it to him?”

“Actually, I would find that highly amusing.”

He had no idea he was tempting a tigress. I planted my hands on the table and started to stand, shocked when he placed one of his on mine. The sizzling shivers from before returned.

“I don’t think he’ll appreciate your lovely American banter.”

“A scaredy-cat, huh?” I sat back down, winking from my own state of amusement.

“You might be surprised.”

Suddenly, Lurch was headed in our direction. After giving me an irritated side-eye, he hunched his big body over, whispering in his master’s ear. My elusive stranger’s entire expression changed. He threw back something in Greek quickly enough I couldn’t catch a single word.

Lurch backed away into the shadows, but kept his angry gaze directed toward me.

The mystery man pulled out his wallet, tossing a few euros on the table. “I need to apologize. I have business that must be handled.”

As he stood, so did I. “I need to head to my room anyway. Thank you for the drink.”

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