Page 116 of Desperate Actions

“None.”

And that’s when I finally ask.

“Why did you marry me, Sammy? I want a real answer.”

His fingers tighten around my jaw. “Don’t you know?”

I shake my head, suddenly terrified of the answer.

He leans in, his mouth a breath away.

“Because I can’t imagine a world where you and me don’t end up together. I’ve been wishing for this. Working for it. Since you were barely out of high school. I love you, Aella Ramirez.”

Tears well in my eyes.

“You love me?” I whisper.

His lips curl, his voice raw and unflinching.

“I’m completely crazy for you, you silly woman.” He kisses me slow and deep, like he’s trying to sear the words into my soul. “Can’t you tell?”

I laugh-sob, melting into him.

And just like that, I know—I’m completely his.

Forever.

He is gazing at me with such adoration, I could drown in him.

And maybe I already have.

I need to say it back. I mean, I should say it back.

But then he’s kissing me in earnest, pulling me up his big, hard body so I’m straddling him and all coherent thought leaves my brain.

Tomorrow.

Tomorrow, I’ll tell him I love him too.

Chapter 27-Sammy

Traffic is a nightmare, but I barely notice.

Santos is handling the drive to Volkov Towers, navigating the mess of Monday morning commuters, but my attention is solely on Aella.

She looks devastating.

A navy-blue pencil skirt clings to her perfect curves, accentuating the smooth line of her waist, and the silk blouse tucked in is elegant.

It should read staid and professional. But on her, it’s sexy. Almost obscene.

I am being completely unfair. I mean, she is trying to be provocative. She just is.

Her dark hair falls over one shoulder in a cascade of midnight silk, and my fingers twitch at the urge to wrap it around my fist and pull.

I clench my jaw.

I love how she looks.

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