“Come,a????. Give me something to hold on to until I see you again.”
His demands are reminiscent of when it was just him and me, lost in our own paradise and locked away from the world. What I’d give to go back to that island. What I’d give to be with him again.
When he moves his hand backward and forward, rubbing every part of me in just the right way, I grow lax and allow him to be my puppeteer. He buries himself deeply, fucking my mouth in rhythm with his fingers.
A string of sweet Russian leaves him before he flicks over my core with a delicious smack. It’s suddenly too much, and my orgasm bursts from me with a strangled sob. Saint holds me tight, wringing every last tremor from me until I flop forward, totally and utterly spent.
I am breathless, and my heart threatens to spill from my chest. But I embrace this feeling because he’s the only one who makes me feel alive.
However, this can’t last forever. I know Alek will come looking for me soon.
When I stop trembling, Saint gently lowers me to my feet. Our eyes lock as he removes his hand and licks his fingers with delight. My cheeks blister, but I can’t stop the feral whimper from escaping.
“You are so beautiful,” he whispers sadly. We both know it’s time to part once again. “I’ll be in touch as soon as I can.”
My head bobbles like a springy toy as I don’t want to say goodbye.
He caresses my cheek, then lays a final kiss over the corner of my mouth. “Dream of me. I’ll see you soon.”
I reach out, clutching his shirt, desperate for him to stay. But he can’t. He grips my fingers, nodding that it’ll be okay. “I’m coming for you. I promise.”
Saying goodbye shouldn’t be this upsetting, but it’s because I know the next time I see him, so much will change. He gives me one final look, his chartreuse eyes luring me in and promising me the world. He opens the door, and just as quickly as he appears, he disappears, leaving me once more.
I stare at the door, hoping it’ll open, but it doesn’t. I’m alone again.
His scent lingers as does his touch on my skin. Each time he says goodbye, he takes a piece of my heart with him. But I will do what he says and dream of him until we meet again.
Quickly fastening my jeans, I wash my face and reapply some makeup, hoping to conceal the fact I was just entangled in my lover’s arms. Once I look semi decent, I take a deep breath and compose myself. Saint is nowhere to be found as I step out from the bathroom.
I walk back to the garage, keeping my nerves in check as I see Alek talking to a man. When he notices me, he says a quick farewell and walks over. “Everything all right?”
“Yes,” I reply in an even voice. “I probably shouldn’t have had all that chili with lunch. I don’t have any antacids. Can we please get some on the way?”
“Of course,” he replies, eyes narrowed as he watches for any signs of deceit. But there aren’t any. Saint taught me well. “The car is almost ready.”
“Great. I really need to lie down.” I leave out the reason that is.
Alek senses something is off, but he nods nonetheless. “I will make you some of my special broth when we get home. It’ll help settle your stomach.”
But it’s not my stomach that needs settling. And when he reaches out to tenderly stroke my cheek, it just confirms the fact that I’m so screwed.
Day 73
TOMORROW IS THEnight of the ball, the ball that will change so much.
My dress hangs from the back of the door, and although it quite possibly may be the most beautiful dress I’ve ever seen, it taunts me. The pure white shade is no accident, no doubt implying my chasteness beneath.
The sweetheart neckline bodice is encrusted with shimmering jewels. The skirt balloons out layer upon layer of ruffled material. The quinceanera-style dress is rather lavish and over the top, which is exactly the point.
I don’t know what tomorrow holds, but it can’t be good. I haven’t heard from Saint, but I guess that’s because his plan is set in motion and there is no changing his mind. This time tomorrow, I will be free and Alek…Alek will be dead.
Since the day he took me to the orphanage, he’s been pleasant, nice even. But I can’t stop thinking about Saint’s warning. Never forget just who he is.
However, when I hear a soft piece of music float across the still air, it contradicts everything.
From what I know, Alek and I are alone after the house has been bustling with commotion for the past two days. Caterers, party planners, gardeners, you name it, have been here as no expense has been spared to ensure tomorrow night’s celebrations go off without a hitch.
I’ve dared not ask about the proper protocol regarding the “ceremony,” and Alek hasn’t mentioned it either. He has been quiet, and I can’t help but think something is bothering him. I overheard him on the phone a few days ago chewing someone’s ear off.