Page 41 of Dirty Play

“Okay,” she nods with a resigned sigh.

She’s been quiet during the entire drive, sitting as far away from me as physically possible.

As the car rolls to a stop outside her apartment, I take a second to soak in the sight of her. She looks tipsy, her cheeks flushed, and her eyes dancing with a wild spark. She stumbles out of the car before I can open the door for her, and I follow.

She fumbles with her keys, all thumbs, as she tries to unlock the door. She’s fucking adorable when she’s flustered.

Without a second thought, I wrap my hand around hers, guiding the key into the lock.

“Here, let me help you,” I say, my voice low as I hear the mechanism click. She shivers at my touch but doesn’t pull away from it.

“Thanks,” she murmurs as our bodies brush against each other.

“You’re welcome,” I reply, letting my thumb run over the back of her hand, watching her lean into me, lips parting in that tempting way. “You sure you don’t need help getting inside?”

“I’m fine,” she breathes out. I can see the desire flickering in her eyes, caught between wanting more and holding back.

“More than fine,” I murmur, watching her cheeks flush at the compliment. Her eyes drop to my lips, her chest expanding as she takes a deep breath.

I lean closer, placing my index finger under her chin, gently prompting her to look at me.

Her eyes are so beautiful. All of her is so fucking beautiful. It steals the breath from my lungs each time I see her. And when she opens that smart mouth to slash me with her sharp tongue, it makes her even more beautiful to me.

I see her part her lips in anticipation, but her pretty eyes are still defiant. Still hesitant.

I want my hellcat begging for me. But looking at her right now, at those big blue eyes, her perfect heart-shaped face, and full lips, I have a feeling that I’ll be the one begging on my knees for her.

I gave her a taste tonight. Let’s hope it’s enough to win the battle with her pride. Until then…

“Goodnight, Livia,” I say as I pull away, leaving her breathless and confused.

I turn and stride back to the car. That’s when I hear her behind me.

“Goodnight, Rowan.” Her voice is steadier now.

I slide into the back seat, turning to look at my hellcat through the window.

“Wait here,” I tell my driver, my gaze glued to Livia as she turns toward her door.

I look around, making sure I don’t see anyone else. I need to see her get inside to make sure she’s safe before we drive away.

I see her open her front door, her steps a little unsteady. I fight the urge to go back out there and help her. Hell, I’d stand by her front door all fucking night just to make sure she’s safe, like an obedient guard dog.

This woman has turned my world upside down in a matter of days, and I plan on returning the favor.

Chapter thirteen

~LIVIA~

I stumble into my bedroom, still buzzing from the night I’ve had. Rowan’s kiss is seared into my mind, his wicked grin making my stomach flip all over again.

God, how did I let him get to me like that?How did I let him kiss me, touch me?

I kick off my shoes and peel off my dress, letting it drop to the floor.

What is wrong with me? I should be freaking out, but instead, I’m tingling all over, remembering every place his hands and lips touched.

I’m drunk; that’s all it is. He caught me drunk and off guard, and it won’t happen again.

---