Page 105 of Cruel Devotion

“I'm still figuring that part out.”

“You now own Lotus Blossom.”

“I do.”

“It's a nice property.”

“I'm sure it is.”

“It's so nice. You'll probably stay there. In fact, it would be crazy to not move in.” Duck picked up another chocolate covered strawberry.

I made sure to not focus on the fruit between his fingers. “Maybe. I'm still weighing my options.”

“Ifyoustay in the East, in Lotus Blossom, barely a five-minute walk from my suite. . .andLei returns to obsessing over Chanel's dead body. . .” Duck popped the chocolate strawberry in his mouth and groaned in delight. “Mmmm.”

Swallowing, I watched as he licked his fingers clean. His tongue slowly swirled around each one, and I felt a warmth build between my legs that I hadn't expected.

Heat radiated within my core.

Duck's eyes met mine and a mischievous grin spread across his face. He knew exactly what he was doing to me.

“Well. . .” I blushed. “I'm just taking this all. . .day by day.”

“As you should.” He placed both hands on the table and threaded his fingers. “Just never forget. . .”

I raised my eyebrows.

“Wolves. Sharp fangs. Bloodied claws.”

“Andyoudon't forget.” I pointed at him.

He eyed me.

“Cousins. Brothers. Best friends. I don't do messy.”

He laughed and then his phone rang, interrupting the crazy conversation. Sighing, he pulled it out, checked the screen, rolled his eyes, and answered. “What?”

I tried to catch the person's voice on the other end.

“Do youreallyneed me?” He frowned. “It'sonedead body. Surely, it didn't go too far—”

The other person must have interrupted him because Duck shook his head and listened with an annoyed expression.

“Yes. Yes.” Duck glanced over his shoulder at the men who had carried me up and gestured for them to come over.

I took it all in.

“Sure. I'll be there.” Duck slowly rose. “Just let me make sure Monique gets back to her tent.”

Oh fuck. Duck has to go too.

I gazed around at all the strangers intently watching me.

Damn it. . .I don't want to be alone on this mountain.

“Yes. Yes.” Duck groaned in annoyance. “I'm just taking her back to the tent. Nothing else will happen.”

That must be Chen.

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