Page 80 of Faking the Shot
“You’re fucking perfect,” he says, untying my wrists, the silk slipping free. He lifts the lace that was once my panties, giving it an appraising look before tucking it into his pocket. “I think I’ll keep these.”
I’m still catching my breath, my body humming with satisfaction, but one thing is crystal clear: Kaden Crawford knows exactly how to unravel me, piece by sinful piece. His smirk is almost predatory, and I can’t help but follow his gaze as it drops to my trembling thighs.
I glance at the obvious bulge straining against his pants and swallow hard, my voice coming out breathy. “What about you?”
His eyes darken, his grin turning wicked. “No worries. I now know I have access to your cunt, and I’ll be fucking you soon. Probably in the janitor’s closet or an elevator.”
The sheer confidence in his voice makes my stomach flip, his words less of a suggestion and more of a promise. My legs press together instinctively, a rush of heat pooling low in my belly. My body is already primed, desperate for him again, and I can feel the temptation building, almost enough to make me beg him to take me now.
His hand trails up my thigh, slow and deliberate, sending shivers through me. “What’s wrong, Valentina? You look like you’re ready to plead for it already,” he teases, his tone laced with amusement.
I let out a shaky laugh, trying to regain some semblance of control, but it’s futile. This man has me completely at his mercy, and he knows it. The way his thumb brushes over my flushed skin, just light enough to tease but not enough to satisfy, makes me want to scream.
“I—” I start, but the words catch in my throat as his lips curve into a knowing smile.
“Don’t worry, baby,” he murmurs, leaning in close, his breath hot against my ear. “When I do take you, you’ll be begging for it. And trust me, you’ll get everything you want.”
My heart stutters, his words lingering in the air as the car comes to a slow stop. Reality crashes in, the driver clearing his throat politely through the intercom, signaling our arrival. But even as Kaden steps out first, offering me his hand with an air of gentlemanly composure, the heated promise in his eyes tells me this is far from over.
Chapter Forty
Valentina
When He Whispers, You're Mine
Now that we’re at this ball, I can’t help feeling out of place. Being surrounded by so many famous and influential people is overwhelming. This is why I’ve always preferred staying behind the scenes—writing press releases and making plans—rather than being front and center at events like this.
To Kaden’s credit, he keeps his hand firmly on my waist the entire time we’re mingling. He doesn’t leave me on my own, not even for a second. He even tries to steer conversations toward topics he knows I can join in on, making me feel less like an outsider and more like his equal.
As we weave through the crowded ballroom, the chandeliers above cast a warm, golden glow over the sea of gowns and tuxedos. The hum of polished conversations drifts around us—art auctions, charity galas, exclusive vacations. It’s a world so far removed from my own that I feel like an interloper.
Kaden leans in, his lips brushing the shell of my ear, sending a shiver down my spine. “You’re doing great,” he whispers, his voice a low, comforting rumble. “Just remember, you belong here as much as anyone else.”
I glance up at him, grateful for the calm he exudes. His confidence radiates off him, and I find myself standing just a little taller. As we approach a group of people, my heart skips when I recognize one of them—Vivienne Carter, the award-winning actress. Her aura of glamour is dazzling, almost overwhelming.
“Kaden, darling. I was just asking your parents if you would be here,” Vivienne exclaims, air-kissing both his cheeks. Her voice is as velvety as it is commanding. “And who is this vision?”
Kaden’s hand on my waist tightens slightly, grounding me. “My parents wouldn’t forgive any of us if we skip this event. Vivienne, let me introduce you to Valentina Holiday,” he says, his voice brimming with pride. “My girlfriend.”
The word sends a thrill through me, though I keep my composure. I offer my hand, praying I don’t come off as a total mess. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I loved your performance in Shadows in the Rain.”
Vivienne’s face lights up, and she launches into a story about filming in New Orleans when the world thought it was setin Paris. Her charm is magnetic, and as she speaks, I realize something I hadn’t expected—these larger-than-life figures are just people too. Slowly, my nerves begin to settle.
Kaden remains attentive throughout the evening. His gaze never strays far from me. During a lull in conversations, he tugs me gently toward the dance floor.
As we sway to the soft strains of the orchestra, the world around us blurs. The heat of his body radiates through my dress, his hands firm on my waist. The tension simmering between us all night finally starts to bubble over.
“You’re incredible,” he murmurs, his lips brushing against my temple. His voice is a mix of admiration and hunger. “Every man here wishes he were me right now.”
I look up at him, feeling the warmth of his gaze like a caress. “And what about you? What do you wish?”
His hands tighten on my waist, pulling me just a fraction closer. “I wish we were alone,” he growls softly, his voice sending a delicious shiver down my spine.
The intensity in his eyes steals my breath. Emboldened by the moment, I lean in close, my lips brushing his ear. “I’m wet, Kaden,” I whisper, my voice low and teasing. “So wet, I’m dripping. It’s all for you.”
His grip on me almost possessive. “You’re going to be the death of me, Val,” he mutters, his voice rough with desire.
“I wouldn’t mind if you made good on your promise to fuck me,” I murmur, emboldened by the way his pupils dilate.
