“Sometimes she’s as annoying as me,” Worth complained as Oliver laced their fingers together again and they stepped out of the suite to wait for the elevator.
“It was sweet of her to sacrifice her Friday night to have a slumber party with Orion and Zarasha so we could explore the resort,” Oliver remarked.
The elevator arrived, and Worth followed the platinum blond through the doors.
“You’re right. The children were so excited. I should be grateful.”
“You are grateful, but you’re also annoyed that they’ll have fun without you.”
“Owliver, you know me far too well. Where are we headed this fine evening?”
Despite not knowing their destination, the elevator took them to the casino level, and they stepped out.
“Food is unnecessary; we had an excellent meal with the children and Imogene.”
“Yes, I’m still full. Shopping?” Worth asked as he stood next to Oliver. The handsome shifter wore a dark suit with a pink floral shirt Orion had helped him select. It was the same rich salmon color as Worth’s beast, and both man and dragon glowed with triumph that Fate had given them such a wonderful partner.
“I’ve nothing in particular to look for, though perhaps we should consider purchasing something for Imogene and the children.”
“Not a bad idea. But if we start with shopping, we’ll have to lug around a bag or two as we entertain ourselves in the resort.”
“I love that you always think of the practical,” Worth said and was rewarded with a soft kiss from Oliver. “What if we did something entirely unexpected?”
Oliver’s gaze grew wary. “Like what?”
“There is hesitation on your face. What’s wrong?”
Tugging on Worth’s hand to get him to move so they were away from the elevators and had some semblance of privacy, Oliver turned to face him again. “I love you, Worthington.”
“I love you too. Has that suddenly become a problem for you?”
There was no seriousness in Worth’s question. Oliver’s heart belonged to him, and Worth never had moments of insecurity about his other half. There was no need; Oliver was a considerate, caring partner who favored honesty and great communication. It was a delight for Worth to have Oliver in his life. The owl shifter was a better mate than Worth could’ve imagined for himself, and though Fate had waited far too long to bring him into the Duke Argent’s orbit, he tried to thank the goddess instead of cursing her tardiness.
“Absolutely not. I had a terrible thought when you suggested we attempt something entirely unexpected.”
There was a fire in Oliver’s bright yellow gaze that had a lightbulb illuminating in Worth’s gray matter.
“Owliver, did you think I was suggesting we might find some public place to make love? For shame, sir. As if I would share your exquisite body with the world while you are in the throes of passion. I was going to surprise you with the idea of doing a bit of gambling, not running off to the gift shop to buy lube.”
“Honestly, you proposing we make love in public is more in line with your character than finding you at a gaming table or slot machine. You aren’t frivolous with your funds.”
“Neither are you, but I consider it entertainment. A small fee to enjoy myself. Let’s find out if I hate it and spend the rest of the evening castigating myself for throwing money away. Thenyou can purchase some lube and fuck me in Elf’s fancy garden to better my mood.”
Oliver shook his head slowly as if he couldn’t believe Worth’s audacity, but the Duke Argent didn’t miss the tiny smile on his kissable lips.
“Let’s go to the casino, Worthington.”
Falling into step alongside Oliver, Worth gave his hand an affectionate squeeze. “I hope it is understood that no matter which way this evening unfolds, I do expect to have your lovely dick inside me before I fall asleep tonight. A bite from your owl would not be remiss either. My dragon may even want to chomp.”
“My owl and I are happy to make your every dream come true. But upstairs in the privacy of our hotel room. Now, are you playing slots, or are we going to a gaming table?”
“A gaming table would be a waste of time; I have no clue how to play advantageously, and it’d be more efficient to toss my life savings into the bin.”
“Slots it is.”
“Have you ever played slot machines in the past?”
“Me? No, but the bright lights and sounds are appealing.”