Page 69 of Twisted Embrace

“You’re perfect.”

“Perhaps I’ll consider forgiving you.”

She had a way of making me smile. I walked closer, the scent of her perfume thoroughly infusing every cell in my body. Using a single finger, I slowly traced it down the length of her arm, grinning seeing the number of goosebumps there. When I slid it under her ring finger, she followed my gaze.

“When?” she asked as if reading my mind.

“Soon.”

“I want my parents there.”

Exhaling, I shook my head. “It’s too risky, Joy. Your parents are safe in Florida, but once I make the announcement about our upcoming nuptials, all eyes will be on us.”

“I understand even if I don’t like it.”

“Mmm… Why do I have a feeling you’ll find a way of making me pay for their absence?”

She laughed, her eyes sparkling. “Because you’re starting to know me far too well.”

“Not nearly enough.” I rolled my finger down her neck to the swell of her breasts, drinking in her intoxicating perfume.

She’d asked dozens of questions over the last few days, learning more about the businesses I was involved in than I’d told anyone. I’d provided the information freely, curious as to her reactions. As usual, she’d surprised me with intelligent and very wise comments, suggestions that could strengthen the bottom line.

“What about a wedding dress?” She gave me a sly look then rolled the tip of her finger down my cheek.

I snagged her hand, pulling it to my lips. “I think we can arrange that.”

“I want Lucia to join me. She is my best friend.”

“If all goes well tonight, I’ll consider it.” Taking her off the grounds was also a risky maneuver, but necessary in order to add layers to the plan Dar and I had arranged.

“You are a ruthless man.”

“And you thought otherwise?” I backed into the room, tugging her with me. After closing and locking the door, I moved to the walk-in closet, selecting a coat. She gave me a funny look when I was determined to hold it out for her.

“I didn’t know you were such a gentleman.”

“I’m not.”

She laughed again and my balls started to ache. The woman had already gotten too far under my skin. “And where are we going?”

“Somewhere special.”

“You don’t want to tell me anything, do you? Are you really afraid I’m going to run away from you now?”

I spun her around, tying the sash then using it to yank her closer. “You know what would happen if you did.”

“Maybe I want to test the waters.”

As I rubbed my finger across her nose, she gave me a sultry look. “I suggest you don’t. To answer your question, we’re close to Pozzuoli, a small coastal town in the west of Italy.”

“Near Sicily?”

“Eight hours.”

“Hmmm… I’ve always wanted to visit the island.”

“Perhaps one day.” I led her down the stairs, noticing Anthony waiting by the front door. While he opened it, he gave me a hard look.

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