Page 20 of The Billionaire's Bargain

Her pulse flutters visibly at the base of her throat. "I don't understand why. I'm nobody."

"You're everything," I correct her, one hand sliding up to cup her cheek. "And I've been losing my mind having you so close without being able to touch you."

Those wide eyes search mine, looking for deception or mockery. Finding none.

"You can touch me," she whispers, the words so soft I almost miss them.

Permission granted. The thin thread of my control snaps.

My mouth claims hers, no gentleness in the first contact. Just hunger and heat and the culmination of three weeks of wanting. She makes a startled sound against my lips before melting into the kiss, her inexperience evident but her enthusiasm making up for it.

I guide her, slowing down, teaching without words. My tongue traces the seam of her lips until they part for me. She tastes like the tea she was drinking earlier and something sweeter that's uniquely Alice.

My hands can't stay still. They roam her back, her sides, her hips—everywhere except where I most want to touch her. Not yet. Not until she's ready.

Her fingers clutch at my shoulders, uncertain but eager. When we finally break apart, her pupils have dilated, the color in her cheeks deepened.

"Fuck, Alice, if you knew all the things I wanted to do to you…it’s unholy," I admit, my voice rougher than usual.

She blinks, dazed. “Should I be scared?”

"Never," I vow as I press my lips to her neck, feeling her pulse race beneath my mouth. "I would never hurt you."

Her head falls back, giving me better access. “Is this why you offered me the bargain?”

I nip at her earlobe, drawing a gasp from her. "I offered you help because you needed it. This—" I roll my hips slightly, letting her feel how hard I am "—is a separate issue entirely."

"Oh," she breathes, instinctively shifting against me.

The friction sends sparks shooting up my spine.Control.I need to maintain some semblance of control.

"Tell me to stop," I murmur against her throat, "and I will."

Her answer is to tentatively rock her hips, creating delicious pressure where I'm straining against my pants. I hiss through my teeth, my hands moving to grip her waist.

"Careful, Alice. There's a limit to my restraint."

She looks at me then, something new and bold in her expression. "What if I don't want restraint?"

The challenge in those words destroys what little composure I have left. I capture her mouth again, one hand sliding beneathher shirt to find bare skin. She shivers against me, making small, needy sounds that drive me wild.

I want to strip her bare. Lay her across the seats and taste every inch of her. But her first time won't be on a plane, no matter how luxurious. That will wait for the island, for a proper bed where I can take my time unwrapping her like the gift she is.

For now, though...

My hand slides down, finding the waistband of her simple jeans. I pause, waiting for permission or refusal.

"Yes," she whispers against my mouth. "Please."

That breathless plea shatters the last of my hesitation. I unbutton her jeans with practiced ease, sliding my hand beneath fabric to find her already damp for me. The discovery pulls a groan from deep in my chest.

"So responsive," I murmur, fingers exploring gently. "So perfect."

She buries her face against my shoulder, embarrassment warring with desire. I find the bundle of nerves that will make her forget everything but pleasure and circle it lightly.

"Oh!" Her whole body jolts.

"Look at me," I command softly.

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