Hidden Paradise

by A. M. Guilliams

  Chapter 19

  Lily

  I couldn’t believe I had agreed to go to the hotel opening. In Milan. Trevor had always loved everything about Italy, and I was happy that his dream to finally have a hotel there had become true. That was one of the reasons I wanted to go. To see his dream become a reality. While I hated leaving Hali, I knew she’d be well taken care of by my parents while Thorn and I were away. Furthermore, I was only one of a few people in the company who had been invited to attend the opening. I’d seen pictures of the renovations of the building that Trevor had procured, and I couldn’t wait to see the final product in person.

  “Are you ready to go?” Thorn asked as he entered my bedroom.

  “As I’ll ever be,” I replied as I looked around the room to make sure that I’d grabbed everything.

  We’d had an early flight and had dropped Hali off at my parents the night before. I thought it’d be easier than having to leave her today. Last night had been hard, but Thorn had been a trooper the entire time. He had tissues and ice cream waiting for when we returned to my place. I cried for an hour straight and complained about being the worst mother on the planet for leaving our little girl behind. He assured me that the feeling was normal and would pass. I wasn’t so sure, but I woke this morning and had to stop myself from going in her room. I’d have broken down again and looked utterly horrible for our flight if I had gone into the room.

  “You look amazing in those yoga pants by the way,” he said as he grabbed our bags and followed me out of the apartment.

  I knew what he was trying to do. I half smiled when I turned back to look at him, hoping that this feeling would pass and I didn’t ruin our entire trip.

  “She’s in good hands. Just breathe and relax. Anytime you feel the need to cry, lean on me. I don’t mind lending my shoulder,” he told me as we sat in our seats aboard the plane.

  “You’ll more than likely be my shoulder to cry on more than once on this trip. I’m having anxiety about this plane taking off. Once it’s off the ground there would be no turning back.”

  “We’re going to have an amazing time. Stop worrying. Plus, we can video chat your mother any time we’re there so you can get your baby fix. I may be taking her up on that offer myself,” he reassured me.

  I laid my head back on the headrest and shut my eyes when the captain had come over the speaker. I could do this. I wasn’t a bad mother. I just needed to keep repeating that mantra, and I’d be just fine. Maybe.

  The flight was uneventful and did little to alleviate my thoughts of leaving behind my young daughter. If I could, I would get a flight straight back to the United States. But Thorn smiled when he looked over at me, and I didn’t want to let him down. Let Trevor down. I could get through this. It was only four days. I’d be back home before I knew it. Two of those days were traveling anyway.

  We picked up our bags once we de-planed then hailed a cab to take us to our destination. I’d been to Italy several times on assignment, but never to Milan. The city was beautiful.

  The cab came to a stop in front of Hotel Paradiso. I loved the name that Trevor had chosen. He’d always incorporated the word paradise in the name of his hotels.

  Thorn paid the cab driver and grabbed our bags from the trunk. I stood to the side of the car and looked up at the eight-story building in awe. The building had been in ruins when Trevor purchased the space. He’d restored it to its original beauty. The front of the hotel was mostly windows with a rustic brick exterior. There were lights in the front of the massive structure which illuminated the windows. I had no words. If the inside was as beautiful as the outside, this hotel would be one of the most sought out in the city.

  We walked up to the door, and the man asked for identification before we could enter. Since the hotel didn’t open officially until tomorrow, Trevor had security make sure the people who entered were allowed to be on the premises.

  Thorn pulled out our passports and the guard looked over each with precision before he scanned the keycard to allow the double doors to open.

  What I found on the other side took my breath away.

  Artwork adorned the walls. The furniture was all deep blues and grays. The woodwork was dark, and the furnishings held low lighting giving off a romantic feel of the space.

  Trevor walked over as I spun around to get the full affect.

  “I’m glad you two made it safely. What do you think?” he said as he walked up and shook Thorn’s hand before he pulled me in for a hug. I wrapped my arms around his frame and gave him a brief hug in return before I pulled back.

  “It’s beautiful. You’ll have a big hit on your hands with this space. Especially during Fashion Week,” I replied.

  “That’s the plan. We’re at full capacity starting tomorrow night for the next two weeks. I’d call that success,” he replied.

  “We’re going to check in and get settled. Where shall we meet you once we freshen up?” Thorn asked.

  “There’s a few hours before dinner. Take your time getting settled. We can meet in the restaurant on the second floor for a meal. The chef here is amazing. I’ve probably put on ten pounds in the last two weeks from trying every dish on the menu,” Trevor replied. That’s why he was so successful. He made sure everything was perfect for his guests before he opened the doors. From the staff to every amenity the hotel offered.

  This particular hotel offered spa services on the second floor and a rooftop bar for evening enjoyment. If I ever came back to Milan for a vacation, I’d want to stay here just for the relaxation aspect this hotel offered.

  “Make sure you bring your keycard to dinner. That’s the only way to enter the restaurant,” Trevor informed us before he walked over to the reception area to handle an inquiry from an employee.

  We checked in easily enough. I was surprised to find that our room was on the top floor. Those rooms were the most expensive for the stay here. I figured he’d want those rooms open for availability to the public for the grand opening.

  Thorn took the key card and scanned it over the keypad. Once the chime sounded, he opened the door and we both walked inside.

  The room was beautiful. A king-sized bed sat in the middle of the space. A desk sat off to the right side of the room, and a television hung on the wall in front of the bed. To the left side was the bathroom. A massive tub was the first thing I noticed when I peered inside. I’d seen sketches, but they didn’t do the actual visual justice. A separate shower was behind the door and a double sink was off to the left of me.

  “I can’t wait to see you in that tub covered in bubbles,” Thorn said as he turned to face me.

  “That sounds heavenly,” I replied as I pulled on the belt loop of his pants to bring him closer to me.

  “We’re going to enjoy every second of this trip, Lily. I plan to use the next three nights to my advantage without the interruptions of our precious little girl.”

  I’d hold him to that too.

  “How about we shower this plane ride off us and get ready for the evening,” I suggested as I walked into the living area and sat down my carry-on bag.

  He placed the suitcases on the bed and picked me up, throwing me over his shoulder.

  “What are you doing, you beast?” I squealed as I smacked him on his ass.

  “Getting you to the bathroom faster,” he said as he carried me the short walk to the bathroom.

  We showered quickly, kissing and teasing each other in between washing our hair and bodies. As much as I wanted to continue what we had started, I needed nourishment to gain energy from the early flight.

  We walked out to the living area wearing nothing but the robes that were left in the bathroom. They were so soft and plush that I wanted one of these for at home.

  I rummaged through my suitcase and grabbed everything I’d need to get dressed for tonight. I wanted to surprise Thorn with one of my new wardrobe choices.

  Placing the clothes and makeup bag behind my back, I walked backward to go back into the bathroo
m.

  “What are you doing?” he asked as he looked up at me at me from the bed.

  “I’d thought you’d join me for a bit.”

  I knew what he was trying to do, but I wasn’t giving in.

  “I need to get ready. It takes time to get beautiful,” I replied as I made a quick dash to the bathroom and locked myself inside.

  I took my time blow drying and straightening my hair that had grown out since my last cut. Once I’d straightened every strand, I took the time to pick out the perfect shade of eyeshadow and gave my eyes a smoky, seductive look.

  I looked up at myself in the mirror, impressed at the reflection staring back at me. I was so glad I watched the videos to learn how to do this look the right way.

  I pulled on my white boy shorts and matching strapless bra. I could walk out of the bathroom just like this and give Thorn the show he’d most likely wanted, but we’d never get out of this room in time for dinner. Instead, I finished dressing in the black, high-waisted pants and off-the-shoulder white silky top. I tucked in the top and looked in the mirror. I’d bought this outfit on a whim when I started shopping for a few new pieces to bring with me, loving the fact that I’d decided to purchase it once I’d seen it on. I slid on the sleek black heels to match and brushed down the material before I opened the door to reveal myself.

  I walked out of the bathroom to find Thorn with his back to me. He’d gotten dressed in a gray button-down shirt and black slacks. I could see the muscles through his shirt as he bent down to grab something off the bed.

  I cleared my throat to gain his attention. He turned around at the sound and whistled low when he saw me standing behind him with one arm leaning myself against the wall. The top few buttons were left unbuttoned on his shirt, allowing his chest hair to peak through the top. He was sexy, and he knew it.

  “είσαι όμορφη, αγάπη μου,” he said in what I assumed was Greek. The sound of what he’d said was sexier than anything I’d ever heard him say in another language.

  “What did you just say?” I asked.

  “You’re beautiful, my love,” he replied as he walked toward me. I felt my cheeks blush at his revelation of what he’d spoken. I felt myself grow wet at the sound of his accent paired with his native language.

  “I’m afraid to tell you that we’re not leaving this room. Seeing you all dressed up is turning me on more than you did in the shower,” he confessed as he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me against him.

  “That sounds tempting, but Trevor is expecting us. We can’t let him down the night before the opening.” I stood up on my toes and kissed the tip of his nose before I pushed away from him and walked around his body.

  “He’ll understand. I’ll make him understand.”

  I wanted to stay up here with him more than anything and feel the pleasure that I knew only he could give me, but the anticipation of what would come later would only heighten our pleasure.

  I repeated my last thought to him and he groaned, knowing that he would win this battle. After I transferred my contents into the black clutch that I packed, I patted his chest and told him it was almost time to meet Trevor.

  We headed down to the second floor and followed the signs to where the restaurant was located.

  Thorn used the key card to enter and opened the door for me. A complete gentleman he was.

  We found Trevor speaking in low tones to the staff about tonight. A few people, most of whom I recognized from the office, were seated at a few tables surrounding each other.

  He stepped aside once he was done giving the instructions and walked over to greet us.

  “I’m so glad you both could make it. I won’t keep you too long tonight. I know you’re tired from the flight, and I want you both well rested for tomorrow night’s party on the rooftop. Lily, you look amazing as usual,” he said, motioning us to have a seat at one of the tables in the section he’d chosen.

  Thorn pulled out my chair and waited for me to be seated before he slid my chair up to the table. He sat on the opposite side of me and smiled as he sat down.

  “He spared no expense. This space alone is as beautiful as the rest of the place. I can only imagine what the rooftop will look like,” he stated, grabbing my hand from across the table. He caressed the inside of my wrist, knowing my weakness for the simple touch. I looked, and he winked at me. The man winked. He knew what he was doing that was for sure. I’d be writhing before dinner ended if he kept up at this rate.

  “It is gorgeous. But, then again, everything that Trevor has created has been,” I replied, trying to pull my hand away before he turned me on any further. Only he wouldn’t let go. He just smiled at me, knowing the effect he had on me. This was my payback for not giving into him. Two could play that game.

  “I’ve taken the liberty of having the chef prepare his infamous fettuccine alfredo. I hope no one minds. It’s to die for,” Trevor announced. I had no objections, and no one else seemed to either.

  The waiter brought out different types of wine, allowing everyone to sample before they chose which one they liked best. Just when Thorn took a sip of the white wine being offered, I lifted my foot and caressed his crotch with the tip of my shoe. He jolted momentarily before he sat still again so no one would notice. I pressed a little harder and moved my foot from side to side, enjoying the hold I had over him.

  He leaned into the table and whispered so no one could hear, “If you get me hard, we’re walking straight out of this restaurant and I’m taking you upstairs to have my way with you.”

  That wasn’t so much of a threat. I wanted him to have his way with me. As soon as we were able to leave.

  I put my foot down and gave him a sly grin. I could get him hard without touching him.

  We had an easy conversation going on around us when the waiters brought out our plates of alfredo. The aroma alone made my mouth water. I was picky when it came to Italian food because I loved it so much and was anxiously awaiting trying the course Trevor had selected. Knowing him, he made sure it was perfect or he wouldn’t have suggested it.

  Picking up my fork, I twirled some of the noodles around and took a bite, moaning at the taste. The sauce was pure perfection. Thick and rich of flavors. Not too much garlic, just enough.

  With each bite, I made sure to make some sort of erotic sound. He grunted from across the table when the last moan exited my throat. My game was working. Maybe better than expected.

  By the time we were finished eating, he was the one fidgeting in his chair and looking like he was ready to leave. I decided to play coy and act oblivious to what I’d been doing the entire time.

  “Are you okay, Thorn? You look anxious,” I asked, trying not to laugh and give myself away.

  “Yeah, I’m perfectly fine. Just extremely full. That was delicious,” he replied, rubbing the back of his neck.

  Yeah right. I knew the look he was giving me. That was the Thorn was turned on look.

  “You sure?” I asked. To push matters even further, I rubbed the same spot I had with the tip of my heel, causing him to squirm in his seat.

  He scooted back his chair from the table. I tried, but failed, not to laugh.

  “It’s time to go. Let’s go thank Trevor for dinner and turn in for the night,” he demanded in a low tone.

  “But I’m not tired. I thought we could explore the city some,” I replied as I wiped my mouth with the napkin and tossed it down on the table.

  “We’re not going to sleep. With what I have planned, we won’t be sleeping for hours.”

  Success.

  I moved back from the table and stood. Seductively, I walked over to him and placed my hand around his waist.

  “Lead the way,” I said with a smile.

  I knew without a doubt he’d follow through with his threat. But it wasn’t really a threat when it was exactly what I wanted to occur.

  Chapter 20

  Lily

  Thorn didn’t disappoint last night. He pleasured my body
repeatedly, finally leaving me spent in the wee hours of the morning. We woke with half of the day already gone. We ordered room service and spent the day in the bed. I’d caved and video called my mother once she told me Hali was awake from her nap. I had to see that my little girl was okay. Thorn and I took turns talking to her, receiving baby gibberish in return. She smiled just when I was about to end the call with my mom, causing my heart to melt and wish that the next two days would pass in a hurry so we could get on the plane to go home.

  Tonight, we were going to a private party that Trevor was hosting on the rooftop, and tomorrow we were supposed to go sightseeing before we left the next day. I wanted to see Thorn’s jaw-dropping reaction the same way I had the night before. I felt sexy. Wanted. Especially when he looked at me longing to have me. I was thankful that I went and purchased that little black dress that all women should own. I’d never wanted to try this hard to please a man, but with Thorn, there was something about him that made me want to show him just how much I wanted him.

  Trevor had called Thorn away at the last minute to assist him with something before the party began. It was perfect timing if you asked me. He kissed me on the cheek before he left, telling me he couldn’t wait to see me under the moonlight tonight on the top of the building.

  I’d curled my hair and pinned it up on top of my head in an elegant up-do. I’d picked out a black lacy bra and panty set to wear just with this dress tonight. Looking at myself in the mirror wearing the beautiful lingerie, I felt sexier than I ever had before.

  I pulled the dress off the hanger and put it on. I enjoyed the feeling of the silky material against my skin. The form-fitting dress fell just above my knee. The front of the dress came down in a v, showing off my cleavage perfectly. I paired the outfit with silver bangles and hoops and black sandals. I put on some lip gloss to finish off the minimal makeup look. Grabbing my clutch, I headed out of the room to attend the party.