Page 48 of Where We Belong

Chapter Twenty-Six

Cory

The following Monday finds us standing before the weathered façade of the old inn, accompanied by Elliot. I’m surprised to see he’s already carrying detailed blueprints and has set up an architect’s table displaying sketches of the property.

“We can create a château aesthetic while also increasing the number of rooms,” he explains, finger tracing over the drawings. “The spa would fit nicely here, and we could do standalone ballrooms nestled within the gardens for events.”

“Convenient,” I murmur, carefully studying the plans. “What’s your estimate for completion time? And the overall budget?”

Ben jumps in before Elliot can respond. “Don’t worry, I’m covering it.”

I shake my head. “We’re partners now in this venture and our relationship. I want to contribute equally.”

Ben grins and nods. Though I love that he’s trying to buy me the world, I want us to learn how to share responsibilities not only in our relationship but also as business partners.

Looping my arm through his, I draw us closer. “We’re doing this together, right?”

“You’re absolutely right, together.” He brushes a kiss over my temple.

“Then you’ll have to let me pay my share,” I insist with a playful nudge.

He grins. “You’re right. I have to learn how to do this relationship thing better.”

Elliot smiles at our exchange before he begins to roll the blueprints.“Well, I’ll work up some solid estimates on timeline and budget. This is going to be something special when it’s finished, but it might take a couple of years to build.”

I gaze up at the old inn, picturing the stunning new building that will take its place. Not just a business, but a legacy for us and our family.

Once we’re done at the inn, we head to my apartment. I promised Ben lunch before getting back to work. We could’ve gone somewhere else to eat, but I want privacy for our conversation.And if something else came out of this little reunion—like a kiss—I wouldn’t certainly not object to it.

Last night left me unsatisfied if I’m honest. Dinner was lovely, but dessert should’ve been me, served up on the table for Ben to savor, not poached pears. All I wanted in that moment was at least a nibble of Benedict, and I got nothing.

As we enter my apartment, Ben quickly sheds his lab coat, revealing the sharp lines of his suit beneath. The sight of him always a tad overdressed brings a smile to my face. “Ever thought of going casual for work?” I tease, eyeing the knot of his tie, fingers itching to draw him nearer.

He narrows his eyes at me, a playful suspicion dancing in their depths. “What are you thinking?”

I bite my lower lip, hesitating briefly, then boldly step into his space. My fingers find the silky texture of his tie, and I use it to bridge the gap between us. “I believe,” I whisper, “you owe me a kiss.”

His hands slide to my hips, drawing me against the hard lines of his body. The world narrows down to just the two of us, our lips colliding with a fervency that far surpasses our previous encounters. His warmth engulfs me, and a gentle tug at my hair from his fingers sends a shiver down my spine. The intimacy of the moment has me pressing closer, my hands wandering over his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heart.

He pulls back ever so slightly, our breaths mingling. The longing in his green eyes is palpable. “Cory,” he starts, voice ragged. “I didn’t come here to—”

Cutting off his words with a gentle touch to his lips, I whisper, “But I want you to.” The vulnerable hope in my eyes is clear. I pray he doesn’t turn me away.

His gaze searches mine. “Are you certain?”

With every fiber of my being, I nod. “Absolutely.”

The intensity of his gaze has me trapped. Drawing me in, he cradles my face and our lips meet, a magnetic pull neither of us can resist. The world fades as he traces a path down my neck, setting my skin ablaze. My pulse races under his touch, every nerve ending on fire.

He nudges my shirt off my shoulders, pausing to appreciate the sight before him. A startled gasp leaves me as his lips find my collarbone, every kiss sending sparks throughout my body. With deliberate slowness, he undoes each button, revealing the delicate lace beneath. As he traces the edge with his thumb, my body arches toward him, seeking more of his touch.

“Stop toying with me,” I whisper urgently, aware of the little time we have for us. “Ben…”

His eyes, full of mischief and promise, make silent promises I hope he can accomplish right now. Swiftly, he removes the last barriers between us, leaving me vulnerable and expectant. In one fluid motion, he lifts me, carrying me to the waiting bed.

As he sets me down, he hovers above, our bodies close, and our eyes lock again. My breath catches, the emotion in his eyes so evident: a mixture of raw passion and deep love. Our lips reunite, hands exploring every inch, every curve. The warmth from his skin and the rhythm of his heartbeat resonates with mine.

He unclasps my bra, helping me take it off. His hands swirl around my breasts, slowly, methodically, making me shiver. My nipples tighten until they ache. He bends to claim one side with his mouth, sucking the flesh, tormenting me with his tongue. Needy moans leave my throat as he continues.

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