Page 19 of Lust

I’ve been afraid of that. It shouldn’t be important to me. The women in the families often bring profitable ideas to the table and don’t receive any credit. Why should I be any different? I sigh, shifting in the water so I’m sitting up more.

“Are you in the bathtub?”

“Yes.”

“Jesus, woman. What are you trying to do to me?”

That’s a damn good question. I have a better one: what arewedoing? Men like Salvatore are supposed to get married and have kids to carry on their bloodline. Are we headed in that direction, or will I stand back and watch another woman walk down the aisle? Could he watch me marry another?

“I’m taking a bath. Soaking in bubbles that tickle my nipples. Rubbing a soft cloth over my pussy. Thinking of you.”

“I’ll be there in fifteen minutes.”

I burst out laughing, then realize he’s hung up. I suppose the real thing is a thousand times better than my imagination.

20

Salvatore

The casino is full, the families all arriving for the big game. Everyone has a stake in it. In order to play, you have to be willing to sacrifice a piece of your empire. Not some shares in your company or a seat on the board, the whole fucking company, or something of equal value.

“You look sensational,” I compliment Milana, grabbing her arm to make her stop walking.

She takes a deep breath. She’s nervous, and I don’t blame her. Tonight is a big night for her. Although I know my father well enough to know he won’t honor their deal, I still want it to be successful for her.

“Thank you for last night. I needed that.”

I chuckle, releasing my hold on her arm. “You don’t ever have to thank me for an orgasm, Milana.”

Her cheeks blush as she smiles. “Some orgasms deserve a thank you.”

“In that case, thank you.”

She laughs, and for a moment, the stress of tonight isn’t a heavy weight on her shoulders. I wish again that she’d stayed away. She’s too fucking beautiful to be marred by the sins that run deep in this room.

“Are you playing tonight?”

I nod. “Yes. Each family is represented.”

“Hopefully this will bring some peace,” she suggests.

“Not likely. One family is going to win a massive hand. There can’t be peace when there are more losers than winners.”

“Then why play the game?”

“I suppose it’s worth it.”

A noise distracts her, someone calling her name. She politely excuses herself and walks off to a pretty brunette. The game is starting soon, so I need to focus. That’s difficult to do with her around.

Milana Genovese is all-consuming. Her touch lingers on my skin. Her scent is still in the air. Her voice echoes in my ears. I can’t do what needs to be done, consumed with thoughts of her.

Grabbing a glass of wine from a waitress, I head over to the main table. A few players are already seated, discussing business. I opt to stand back, take in my competitors. I’ve been playing cards since I was six years old. The majority of these men are twice my age. Still, they don’t stand a fucking chance. I have one goal: win.

“Lots of competition tonight,” my father states.

“Lots of rewards as well.”

“I trust you won’t disappoint me.”

---