Page 45 of Secret Silver Nights

Two hours later, after the last encore, she found out exactly what it was.

Chapter 20

“Monique!”

She’d almost made it, had navigated the room and the lobby and the crowd so that she could leave the event without running into him, without having to smile at him and Zaria again. If she hurried, she thought, she could reach the door and make her exit without turning around. Later she’d swear that she didn’t hear him call her name. On a stack of Bibles. In a packed courtroom with the honorable judge whomever presiding. Five more feet—ten, max—and I’ll be free.

Except for the iron-grip hold on her elbow, just before she reached the door; close enough to feel the wind blowing from outside. There was no escaping. So she turned around. “Yes, Niko?”

“Come with me.”

As if she had a choice. He’d lessened his hold but hadn’t let go of her arm. Now he led them down a short hallway, away from the crowd.

Finally, away from prying eyes, she jerked away. “What do you want?”

“I know you’re running. And I know why. The Hakimis are longtime family friends. We’ve known each other for years. Zaria and I have known each other since we were teenagers.”

“Good for you.”

“There is not now nor has there ever been anything romantic between us. I’ve never felt for her what I feel for you. I’m tired of us trying to deny what’s unavoidable, trying to be politically correct and do the right thing because we’re in a race against each other.” His phone buzzed. “Look, let’s get away from town gossip and prying eyes. Meet me in half an hour.”

“I’m not going to a hotel with you, Niko. There’s too many people from P.C. here. I won’t—”

“Shh. Listen. We don’t have much time.” He pulled out a card. “My driver, the same one who took you home the other night, is right outside. He’s waiting to take you to my condo.”

“I don’t think so.”

“Please, Monique. Trust me on this. We need to discuss this situation. And we need to talk tonight.”

Before she could argue, he kissed her and was gone.

Within minutes, she was in the back of a town car, riding through the streets of San Francisco, texting instructions to Lance, leaving a message for Margo and believing that from one single kiss she’d surely lost her mind!

They entered an exclusive neighborhood with beautiful homes and winding roads. The car stopped at the very top, in front of a stately building. The lawn was intricately landscaped and lights cast a soft glow all around.

The driver got out of the car and opened her door. “Here’s the key, Ms. Slater,” he said once he’d helped her exit. “His door is the one on the right. Go right on in. Niko will be here momentarily.” He watched until she’d opened the door and waved. Then he was gone.

To call what she viewed a condo felt like a misnomer. With high, vaulted ceilings, chandeliers and a winding staircase, this place felt like a castle. She pulled off her shoes and had barely begun a self-guided tour when she heard the door open.

“Monique?”

Her heart began beating wildly before she could respond, as if her body knew something that she didn’t. She walked from the dining room to the living room, where he stood.

“Your place is beautiful,” she said when she reached him.

“And so are you.”

With no further words, he pulled her into his arms, their lips immediately connecting in a torrid kiss. Hands were everywhere—chest, breasts, hips, thighs, back, neck and buttocks.

“I know I said we’d talk, but right now there’s something else I’d much rather do.” His eyes were clear and pleading. “Do you want me, too?”

“Yes.” She was breathless and so incredibly hot. Later, it would be the only reason she could think of for her next line. “Unzip me,” she said and turned around.

He did, kissing each inch of skin as it became exposed. She wore no bra and now, standing before him with only a silky white thong and stilettos, felt suddenly shy.

“Don’t.” He placed a finger under her chin and lifted her head. “There is no reason to hide perfection. You are beautiful.” He took off his jacket and placed it around her shoulders. “I’m so ready to make love to you, but I don’t want to rush this moment.” He walked over and opened a console hidden in a panel on the wall. Soon the sounds of soft R & B surrounded them. He took off his bow tie and unbuttoned the top buttons on his tuxedo shirt. “Let me get us something to take upstairs.”

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