Page 62 of Lust

“We can talk plenty this weekend, but let’s keep the topic off sex.” He smiles faintly. “Even if it’s sex in the Bible.”

I grin. “Such a kinky book.”

“Watch it, young—” His lips close.

Goddamn it, Brandon. Just say it. Call me young lady. Call me your naughty girl.

The rest of the drive is rife with tension, and all I can think is what a long weekend it’s going to be if he stays this bottled up.

ChapterNineteen

Brandon

I’m about to check into a hotel with the woman I’m dying to get my hands on but can never touch again.

Fuck this.

Fuck everything.

I can’t even enjoy the gorgeous resort, which would normally make me feel as close to God as ever. Redwood trees surround us, and the ocean crashes against the cliffs in the distance.

I’m in a romantic setting with the object of my desires. For two whole days. And nights.

Please God. Help me get through the weekend without sinning again.

Not a kiss.

Not even a light brush of the hand against her beautiful skin.

The receptionist hands over our keys. “Pastor, Ms. Hernandez, you’re in bungalows five and six. They’re side by side for your convenience.” She smiles warmly.

“No,” I say too sharply. I swallow, attempting a casual tone. “Ms. Hernandez should be closer to the conference hall. For logistical reasons.”

Mari turns to me—probably frowning in question—but I can’t look at her. Not when I’m telling a bald-faced lie.

The receptionist blinks at me. “We’re all booked. I thought you…” She looks at Mariana. “Your PA arranged it all.”

“Yes, I did.” Mariana’s tone is sharp. “You never told me you wanted me next to the conference hall for…logisticalreasons.”

I inhale a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves.

I can’t have her right next to me.

I’ll go utterly insane.

I shoot Mariana a hard look, and she raises her chin. Fuck, I love how she does that. I love how she never lets me steamroll her.

Just as I’m about to tell her she’s right, the receptionist speaks. “Bungalow twenty-seven is available. We don’t usually book it, but we could…make an exception.”

Twenty-seven. That sounds far away. My breath stutters out of me in a rush of relief. “That’s fine. Thank you.”

Mariana

The key turns in the lock with a rusty squeak, and the door swings open, revealing my accommodations for the night.

Oh my God.

No wonder the hotel clerk seemed so horrified when Brandon insisted I stay in this room.

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