Page 14 of Vengeful Vows

“Maybe around eight.” Why am I agreeing to this? But it’s as if I am helpless to resist him.

“Give me your phone.”

“My…” Confused, I blink.

“Phone. So I can put my contact information in it.”

Nodding, I do as he says.

After he’s finished, he hands me back the device. “Text me the address where you’ll be, and I’ll pick you up.”

Once I agree, he tenderly places his hands on my shoulders. Then he leans forward, and we’re breathing the same air. My heart dances a jig in my throat.

“I meant every word I said to you tonight, Bella. Don’t forget it.”

Will he kiss me? I’m almost willing to beg him to do so.

“May I kiss you?”

It’s too soon.“Yes,” I whisper.

At first, he’s gentle, lightly brushing his beautiful lips across mine. Then he backs me against the door.

“Open your mouth for me.”

I do. His tongue seeks and finds mine, electrifying me in a way I’ve never known before.

He tastes of seduction and whiskey, a potent combination.

When my resistance melts, he claims more, deepens the kiss, and it becomes passionate, arousing me.

One hand is in my hair, the other on my lower back, as if he’ll never let me go.

His tongue thrusts into my mouth in crushing demand. He overwhelms me, and my unbridled response to his passion frightens me.

Still, he’s not satisfied.

Marse devours me, making the world spin.

Only then, when my lips are swollen and my knees are weak, does he slowly let me go.

His eyes are stoked with satisfaction. And I want more.

After steadying me, he steps back to capture an escaped tendril of my hair that he tucks behind my ear.

“There’s one thing you need to remember.”

Considering him, I cock my head to one side.

“No one touches what’s mine. Are we clear?”

He’s claiming me as his?

“Tell me you understand.”

Not for the first time, I wonder if he’s a little mad. Still, I can’t help but obey his command. “Yes, Marcello.”

“Sleep well.” He nudges my door open and makes it clear I am to go inside. Then there’s a soft click as he pulls it closed behind him.