Page 99 of Reckless Desire

He lowers his forehead to mine. “You should sign the lease tonight, so we can come back to finish this.”

I laugh and call out to Jackson. “I’m in.”

* * *

“I can’t believe you’re really dating.” I keep shaking my head as I make a plate of fruit and veggies for my dad.

Our father has been having a great few weeks, and we’re all cautiously optimistic his health is turning for the better. I’m thrilled he could be at Hunter’s opening.

“Yeah, whatever.” London growls.

“Is it serious?” I ask.

“Is what serious?” Bianca appears from somewhere.

For some reason, I decide to mess with London. “London is dating,” I explain.

“Of course it’s serious. They are perfect together.” Bianca smiles and Lo shrugs, the emotions on her face as far from joy as possible.

When Bianca and Dad walk away, I glare at Lo. “Am I the only one who hasn’t met him yet?”

“You were busy with your own shit.”

“Why didn’t you bring him?”

London glares at me for a moment and I swear there are tears in her eyes. Before I can find out what the hell is going on, she shakes her head and walks away. I can’t imagine London getting attached, but by the looks of it, something is not right.

“Hunter tells me you found the space for your learning center.” Gio startles me. I turn and meet his eyes, which surprises me even more because usually I would see his frowning forehead as he focuses on his phone. Is he off the screen?

He looks dashing in his bespoke suit that hugs his strong, muscular figure. He’s not as tall as Massi, but he’s impressive, nevertheless.

“More like he found it, but it’s perfect. Thank you for offering to loan me money.”

He shrugs. “Rather me than fucking McFadden. What is she doing here?”

I follow his frown. “Mila? She’s one of the best event planners we know and was able to get this all together on a short notice. What’s your problem?”

He groans and pulls out his phone. The conversation is over. I know Gio has a caring side because I’ve known him for a long time, but Jesus, he really can be a jerk.

“Hello, beautiful. I think everything turned out well.” Hunter sneaks his arms around my waist from behind, nuzzling my throat gently.

I whip around in his arms to face him and kiss his cheek. “I’m proud of you.”

“Has anyone given you a tour yet?” he whispers.

I laugh. “I’ve been here several times already.”

He wiggles his eyebrows, takes my hand and leads me away. We climb the stairs to his office and Hunter locks the door behind us, then draws the blinds on the inner window that overlooks the party below.

“Hunter, everyone saw us coming up here,” I protest, but my core contracts and my heart sets a dangerous tempo.

“It’s my office, Sydney.” He hisses my name in that sensual way only he can. “I’m expected to take care of business here.” He pulls me to him and walks me backward.

My back hits the door and my objections die with his lips on mine. Hunter grabs my wrists and pins them above my head, imprisoning them in one of his large hands. The other hand finds my breast as he continues ravaging my mouth. My jaw. My neck. My clavicle.

“And it’s my business, Mrs. Lowe,” he mumbles against my skin, “to take good care of you.”

With his knee, he spreads my legs wider. “Keep your arms up,” he demands.

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