by Anna Antonia
“You assume correctly.”
Jorge stood there. His broad face held a question that only Killian knew the answer.
The King heir sighed. “We’ll be safe. I’ll keep Miss Martin out of trouble. Straight there. Pass that along to my grandfather and you’ll be golden, got it?”
Jorge nodded. “Very good. I’ll see you in the morning.”
“Yes, yes. Good night. Wait a minute. Let me get my stuff.”
Seriously?
Killian plucked the bags out of the back of the SUV. He moved it all in one hand and gave Jorge a jaunty wave with the other.
“You sent our ride away and now you’re stuck carrying all that.”
“Relax, Lucy. I’ve got it under control. Besides, you’re going to help.”
Automatically taking three or four smaller bags, I said, “I’m warning you now—my feet seriously hurt. I’m not in the mood to walk more than a block. I’ll dump this stuff and find a driver of my own if you try to make me go past that crosswalk.”
Killian shook his head and sighed, “Are you done?”
“Are we clear?”
“Of course, mi amor. You sit on this bench while I make a phone call. We’ll be out of here before you know it.”
Killian’s purr mocked me, especially by calling me his love. I’d done it to be convincing. He did it to disturb me.
Or remind me he hadn’t forgotten and I’d have to answer for it.
All the guesses in the world wasn’t enough for me to know.
I sat on the bench, watching him out the corner of my eye as he spoke on the phone. Suave. Such a soft voice, but clear. Smooth. It made you want to listen to him talk. Never knowing whether he was going to be kind or sharp added to the spice.
Shivering, I wished I’d brought my coat instead of leaving it at the office.
That’s the only reason why I’m shivering. Yup.
Killian turned to me, focusing hard. I froze.
“Of all the things…” His muttering ended in two steps when he reached me. “Seriously, Lucy. How have you survived this long in the world?”
“I’m a pro at it.”
That was a truth I didn’t mean to share. Killian seemed to take it as a joke. Or something.
“Mmm…I doubt that, Miss Lucy. You’re going to become a little block of ice if I don’t do something about it.”
I bit into my mouth, deeper when his focus sharpened on the stinging spot. I remembered the way his hands lifted me up. The exhilaration when I realized exactly how he was going to punish me for defiance. I was right there. My heart quickened and I wanted Killian to kiss me again.
Not for a second. Not for a minute. Not stopping until I melted right into him, becoming one with his secrets and pain…
“Lucy.”
“Yes?”
“What are you doing?”
Snap. I’d shown too much. Straightening my back, I tilted my head. “Just waiting to go home.”
The words took on a different meaning because they felt right.
Too dangerous.
Killian lifted a hand, curling it gently under my chin. “Don’t look at me like that.”
“Like what?”
His lips turned down into a tragic smile. “Like I’m everything I’m not.”
Wings clipped. Just with five words.
“Duly noted.” I shifted on the bench, trusting I’d find a way to suppress the disappointment crashing about in my chest. “So did you call for a car?”
Killian didn’t answer immediately. He just watched me, gaze gliding over my face. “Don’t look at me like that I said.”
“I’m not looking at you in any way.”
“Yes, you are.”
Killian crouched before me. He rested a large hand on my knee. It burned with intimacy.
“How am I looking at you?” The words were hard to say, giving them a raspy texture.
Killian didn’t answer. He just continued to look at me, really look at me. No calculation in his sky-blue gaze. It was open and inspired me to be open as well.
I placed my hand over his, taking comfort when he didn’t snatch it away.
We stayed like that for an eternity lasting only a blink of an eye. Killian stood up, fluid and graceful as ever, and sat next to me. I scooted over only to have him brusquely pull me back.
Killian undid his coat buttons, holding it open. I stared at the invitation blankly, as if I didn’t understand. I understood, but did he?
“Come on. You’re letting the cold in, Lucy.”
“No. I’m okay. Thanks.”
“Liar. Now that you’re not pissed at me you’re finally feeling the weather. It’s cold and how are you going to be able to come to work and irritate me if you’re laid out with a fever?”
I wanted into that space, right by his side, but…
But what?
Carefully, I slid an inch or so closer. Killian covered me as much as possible. My legs were still exposed, but the heat from his body was more than enough to keep me warm.
I knew this man for a devil, but right now, he felt too much like the angel he once was. The angel he could become if only I could reach him…
The need for protection came over me. I rarely ignored my instincts, but this was one time I wished I could.
“You know a gentleman would just give me his coat.”
“I’m no gentleman. Besides, you were the one stupid enough to leave yours behind. Just be glad I’m willing to share.”
“I’m not stupid. Don’t call me that.”
Killian snorted. “You realize you’ve given me a weapon, don’t you? Silly girl.”
Yeah. I was silly. Stupid actually. Stupid because I wanted to sit on this cold bench forever. Stupid because for the first time in my life, I wanted a man for myself. Stupid because I knew Killian King wasn’t the man for me and I wanted him anyways.
A limo pulled up, sleek, black, and spotless.
“You could’ve gotten something less over-the-top.”
“I could’ve, but life is so short. Why not ride in luxury when you can?” A sly look entered his eyes. “Will I be your first?”
What?
I babbled but managed to choke out, “What do you mean? I don’t…what?”
“Your first limo ride, Miss Lucy Martin. Whatever else did you think I possibly meant?”
The driver jumped out and hurried to introduce himself while simultaneously gathering all our bags. I could’ve shook his hand for saving me from floundering further.
At least if he hadn’t avoided looking at me for longer than a split-second. I didn’t understand why until I realized I was still wrapped under Killian’s coat.
I knew then what I looked like—a rich man’s lover.
The speculation should’ve disturbed me. It would’ve under normal circumstances. I guarded my reputation with a fierceness that bordered on fanaticism.
However, I was reluctant to move away from beneath Killian’s protection even though I had to. I wouldn’t have Killian thinking I’d grown inappropriately possessive over his touch.
Inappropriate? You think about that now? How funny!
Killian slowly released me. I didn’t want to think he’d fallen under the same spell. It probably meant nothing to him. A way to torment his Grandfather’s spy. Or maybe it was just his brand of politeness.
That or he was always a bit of flirt anytime he was around a woman.
Bingo!
I wasn’t going to give it more weight than it deserved. Never mind the fact I’d replay this over and over again and smile every time I remembered how good he smelled or how firm his body was against mine. Or how safe I felt.
Killian kept his hand on my back as I got into the car, but he didn’t get in behind me. Instead, he walked to the trunk where the driver instantly opened it. I heard a rustle and then Killian was there next to me.
Looking at the bag, I knew what it was. Richart Chocolates.
The limo pulled away from the curb, gliding into traffic easil
y. I thought back to Killian’s wishes for Jorge. Apparently, we were in danger of hitting the same backed up toll booths and traffic. I didn’t understand why we couldn’t have just stayed with Jorge, but there was probably a method to Killian’s madness.
The rustling of a package snared my attention. Politely, I looked out the window so Killian could eat his overpriced treat in peace.
“Here.”
Surprised, I turned to him. A colorful square festooned with pink circles rested on his palm. Before I could deny the sweet, Killian pushed it into my mouth.
He gazed at me with his typical spite-tinged satisfaction. “Saves us both time. Now chew and tell me it’s heaven.”
What a telling choice of words.
I chewed slowly, parsing through the new flavors. “It’s good. Not $150 a pound good, but good.”
“Good. How uninspiring.”
“I’m a Hershey’s kind of girl so…”
Killian rolled his eyes. “What’s that phrase again? Something about pearls before the—”
“Finish it and see what happens.”
Sparks lit the space between us. It invigorated.
“I like a good challenge, Miss Martin. Tell me how you’d do your worse.”
“No need to tell. You’d just have to find out.”
Killian tapped his chin. Just when I thought he was on the verge of pushing me, he laughed. “Definitely not boring. Lucky you.”
He popped a chocolate in his mouth. I didn’t realize I was smiling until he winked.
I could get used to his good side. I wondered how many other women found themselves in this position, thinking they could tame Killian King into something as sweet as the candy on his lap.
“Do you want some more?”
Yes.
“I’m good. Thank you.”
“Suit yourself.” Killian took a bite and then said, “On second thought…”
Suddenly, he leaned into me, half-eaten chocolate perched between his perfect lips. I moved my head back, but he only followed me. I didn’t have to look in Killian’s eyes to see his dare.
Temptation your name is Killian King. Hershey’s got nothing on this.
Leaning forward just ever-so-slightly, I wondered what would happen if I played along with Killian. Would he have me eat the chocolate right out of his mouth? Better yet—would he kiss me again?
Wait.
What was wrong with me? The driver was right there! I’d only known Killian for a couple of days. In fact, we weren’t dating. We were coworkers. Nothing more.
Nothing more? Really? You don’t want more? Yeah right.
Killian’s gaze sparkled with sly mischief. He probably could see all the wicked lust and wanting right there on my face. How embarrassing!
Fire high-stepped across my cheeks. I barely resisted the urge to slap my palms across them in a weak attempt to shield my bodily reaction.
Firmly, I looked away.
“You’re no fun…”
I opened my mouth to retort when Killian pushed the chocolate past my lips. Delicious cocoa melted on my tongue. Vaguely, I wondered if this was how Adam felt when he took that infamous bite.
A tiny moan of pleasure escaped. The taste grew sweeter. I didn’t have to guess why.
“Better?”
Words failed me. I nodded instead.
“Good girl.” Killian poured a splash of something bubbly from the bar. “Try this.”
Holding up my hand, I shook my head. “I don’t drink.”
“As in ever?”
“No.”
“Why? Is it a religious thing?”
“No.” I wasn’t comfortable explaining. I defaulted to my go-to answer. “I just like to keep my wits about me.”
“I’m hardly going to get you drunk on chocolate and champagne.” A wicked smile flirted with me. “At least, not here anyways.”
“You’re unbelievable.”
He laughed. I liked it and 100% believed Killian should do it more often. At least like this.
“I know.” He tossed back both flutes. “Hmm…you missed out, Lucy. Maybe next time.”
No. Not if I wanted to keep my head above water.
Mercifully, the ride ended soon afterward. Not because we found a secret way into the city. Rather, Killian found another way to overcome pesky mortal annoyances like traffic and distance.
Wide-eyed, I stared at the black helicopter crouched on the pad like an oversized, yet fragile, insect.
“You mean we’re flying back to the city?”
“Of course.” Killian grabbed my hand. “Come on. With any luck, we’ll fly right over Jorge and see him suffering for your stunt today.”
“Then what’s my punishment?”
Oh my goodness. That sounded way too flirty.
Killian apparently thought so too. He squeezed my hand just a bit harder. “I’m sure I’ll come up with something terrible. Just wait.”
15
KILLIAN
My kingdom for her smile. Lucy still hadn’t let go of my hand. Or my mind if I was being perfectly frank.
Today was a day of many firsts.
It was the first time I ever took Carter up on a favor although we’d ran in the same circle for years. (Probably would owe him something more than cash. Oh well. I needed use of the helicopter.)
It was the first time I chased after a woman. (Who had the time? Or the patience? Apparently, I did. At least for Lucy Martin.)
It was the first time I tangled with Russian mobsters. (I still could put Lucy over my knee for that one.)
It was the first time I played with a woman and didn’t expect her to drop to her knees for me. (Although I wouldn’t turn Lucy away, even on my deathbed.)
And today was the first time I actually enjoyed being up in the air. Lucy distracted me enough to make me forget how much I loathed flying.
The trip across the Atlantic to the Von Hügel castle was enough to sour me on flying forever.
But now wasn’t the time to sink into those memories. Especially when Lucy turned to me with an ecstatic smile and yelled, “Have you ever seen anything more beautiful than the city at night?”
I shook my head. She squeezed my hand and turned back to the window. I’d fly every day as long as Lucy wanted it.
Damn.
How had my goddess gotten me to kneel at her altar so quickly?
That wouldn’t do.
I was supposed to be in control of this. Not her. Lucy already had too much of an advantage between her position at King Cosmetics and well, all the beautiful bits I’d yet to see, feel, and taste.
Speaking of taste, I’d never be able to eat chocolate and not think of Lucy. Not after the way she stared at me tonight, teeth digging into her lips and lust practically vibrating between us.
I definitely could have her in my bed within the hour. Fuck! I wanted her there, naked, legs spread so I could see her perfect pussy begging for my fingers, tongue, and cock.
We wouldn’t show back up at work for a month. Not until I slaked this hunger. Maybe not even then.
Which brought me back to the wasteland of my life.
As soon as my dick pushed inside, I’d push Lucy out. All of this…whatever it was…would be over and done with.
Somehow that didn’t sit well with me.
Not because I saw or even wanted more, never that, but the ever-present boredom and frustration would stomp back into my life without Lucy in it. I wasn’t ready for it.
Not just yet.
I was supposed to make my newest toy last. Somehow between the kiss and the chocolate, I’d forgotten that none of this was real.
Apparently, Lucy wasn’t the only one prone to making stupid mistakes.
Soon we landed at Carter’s family headquarters. I helped Lucy take off her headphones. Her luminous smile was almost enough to knock me on my ass.
“You’re right. That was so much better than sitting in traffic. I was scared at first, but…oh. I’m so glad I got to do that. Thank yo
u, Killian. Really.”
Shit. No almost about it. Concrete met my ass.
I waved off her joy. “No thanks necessary. It’s been a long day and I’m just ready for it to be over.
Lucy’s smile disappeared. Gone as if it never was.
“You’re right. It has been a long day. We can part here. If you want.”
No, I didn’t want, but Lucy didn’t need to know that.
“Sure. Can you handle getting home or do you need a cab?”
“I can handle it.” She looked around as if she’d find a ride up here on the roof. Of course, she was being silly. There was no way I’d actually hurt her just now and there definitely wasn’t a chance that I caught sight of tears.
Not on a girl who negotiated with gangsters as easily as one ordered coffee.
Keep telling yourself that long enough and eventually it’ll be true.
“Well, come on then.”
I didn’t look back to see if Lucy followed. I just slowed my steps down long enough to hear the crunch of her small shoes against pavement.
We were fine. Everything was about to turn back to status quo. Tomorrow, I’d fuck around with her for being a snitch and she’d annoy me in no time flat.
But I wouldn’t forget about tonight. Not in a million years.
16
LUCY
Almost there.
There were a couple of times I wasn’t confident I’d make it, but the worse seemed behind me. I had a misstep or two in Jersey. I’d let myself get swept up in the moments between anger and longing, a kiss and a helicopter ride, but my feet were firmly planted on the ground.
As they should be.
Now I was almost finished with my first week. I’d done as Mr. King had asked. I’d observed his grandson, trying to learn how he worked, what engaged him, and what closed him off.
I knew enough to give a full report.
Killian worked with single-minded focus, but the problem was it only involved tasks he believed were necessary. Anything he deemed a waste of his time could rot into eternity before he touched it.
Killian liked to solve problems, big or small. Anything that made department heads throw their hands up in the air were his favorite kind.
Killian always closed off when the reason why I was there came up. Never in front of either of us, but rather the knowing glances and barely-concealed smirks. My hand itched to smack heads when I saw it. They had no room to judge. I was sure things weren’t all sunshine and rainbows in their families!
