Page 4 of Mistletoe Masquerade
Not only is he here but his large hand is curved around my waist, and his scent is melding its way into my DNA.
“Appreciate you guys entertaining my date, but I need to steal her away. Come on, kitten.”
“Yes, Daddy.” The words slip past my lips without anounce of forethought, and I’m reminded of the myriad of times my mother told me I was too sassy for my own good.
I can’t believe I’ve just called this man Daddy in public, but what did he expect? He told me to follow his lead, right? And he called me kitten, after all.
Not only is he unfazed but I can tell Detective Malone doesn’t ruffle easily by the seductive rumble of laughter that tickles my ear as we walk away from my now speechless companions.
“Careful, or you’ll end up on the naughty list,” he murmurs under his breath.
“I’m not the one running around kissing random women I’ve never met before.”
“Touché. That part wasn’t necessary, but I can’t say I’m sorry.”
“You might when you meet my husband.”
He stops mid-step, eyes coming to mine, then flitting to my left hand. “You’re married?”
It’s my turn to smirk. “No, but you didn’t know that.”
A masculine sound of amusement resonates from his chest as his penetrating eyes bore into mine. “Let’s clear all that up right now. Are you here with someone?”
“No,” I say, transfixed by the ocean of aquamarine staring back at me.
“I suppose that still leaves the possibility that you have someone back home. Are you seeing anyone?”
“Why do you want to know?” My voice has gone breathy as my lungs forget how to function.
This gorgeous man leans in, his lips inches from my ear as he murmurs, “I’ve captured the attention of the most radiant woman in the room, and you want to know why I’d ask if she’s single?”
“Well, when you put it like that…”
He pulls back enough for our eyes to lock, then raises a brow. He wants an answer.
“No, I don’t have a date, nor am I seeing anyone.”
His chin dips in a single nod before he takes my hand and leads us toward the drink table. He selects a glass of champagne and lifts it to clink with mine.
“To a night of unexpected delights.”
CHAPTER 2
DEAN
Jesus,I sound as ridiculous as those assholes who had her cornered.
I don’t typically pursue women at work events, but something about this woman has me feeling like I’ll never forgive myself if I let her slip away.
The way my hand circles halfway around her tiny waist.
The aristocratic lift of her chin, and her elegant jawline that begs to be kissed.
The quick bite of her sassy words softened by the innate way sherelaxes into my touch.
Regardless of the reason, this woman is worth a few broken rules.
We both drink to my toast, our eyes reluctant to break contact.
