Page 27 of Brutal Mercy

“That’s it. Gabriella, Kate, and Rosa all have their own places on the property. My bodyguards have a house they all stay in.”

“It’s a lot of house for just the three of you.”

“Technically, it’s my house. They just have a room here. They have their own places in the city, as do we. But we work together as well, and it makes more sense to stay together.”

“That’s nice. It’s been different since I became Lyla’s guardian. I’m no longer just her sister but a parental figure, so we’ve butted heads over the years.” My bottom lip quivers thinking about her.

“I swear we’ll get her back. My brother is the best tracker I know. If anyone can find your sister, it’s him. And he’s already begun his search.”

“Really? But it’s night.”

“And every minute with something like this counts. I didn’t tell you this so that you would worry. But to ensure you know that I keep my word. So, do you want to go explore your new home, Mrs. Massimo?”

I do, but my body seems to have other ideas. “Actually I’m pretty tired. Sorry, it’s been two long days, and I just want to crawl into bed. I hope you don’t mind.”

He smiles. “Not at all. It’s understandable. Your body is working hard to heal your injuries, and sleep is the best thing for you. Let’s get you ready for bed. Stay here for a minute, and then I’ll come get you.” He rises and tosses his napkin on the table.

He removed his suit jacket during dinner. And I gotta say, my new husband looks sexy in his dress shirt and slacks. He returns to my side a few minutes later and carries me into the bathroom, where he helps me brush my teeth and wash my face to remove all the makeup. He even brushes my hair for me with an expression that tells me he’s enjoying it as much as I am, and I’m feeling pampered.

Weird but true.

It’s when he helps me undress and remove what was essentially my wedding dress that it gets awkward—for me at least.

Hades sets me down on the vanity counter and unzips the back of the dress, then draws the spaghetti straps down my shoulders. His eyes are blue flames, deepening and darkening as my skin is revealed. But once my chest is exposed, his gaze latches on with such hunger I almost tell him I’m okay with having sex tonight.

I know it’s not the first time he’s seen my naked tits. But it still feels new and will take a hot minute before I’m comfortable being nude around him.

It takes our combined effort to remove the dress with me sitting. But once he does, I’m in nothing but a tiny slip of lace. And he likes what he sees. It’s not lost on me that he’s fully clothed while I’m almost completely naked.

His hot gaze lingers on my breasts. And beneath his slacks is the firm proof of his desire. My pulse thumps wildly, and I wish we could consummate our union. I might wind up being the only bride to wake up the morning after her wedding still a virgin.

He can’t be that large. It’s not possible. I don’t even know how he would fit inside me.

“Let’s get this on you.” He lifts a T-shirt up, bunching it up so he can fit it over my head.

And I realize it’s one of his shirts. I know his bodyguards were getting all my stuff from the house, but I like that I get to wear his shirt. How mental does that make me?

At his urging, I raise my arms. The soft, dark gray cotton shirt is smooth as silk as it covers me. And I resist trying to smell it. But then, his scent is everywhere, and it makes me hot.

“Okay, let’s get you into bed.”

“I, um, need to pee first.” I blush. I know he’s my husband now, but it still embarrasses me.

“All right, let’s get you over to the toilet then, shall we?” He carries me over and says, “Keep your arms around my neck.”

I don’t argue. Not when he’s been so great. But then his hands lift the hem of his shirt up.

“What are you doing?”

“Pulling your panties down so you can go.” His palms linger when he hooks his thumbs beneath the lace. And he drags them down my thighs slowly, his gaze trained on my body, more specifically, my pussy.

I know I’m blushing to high heaven. I feel the heat creeping up my cheeks.

“I like that your pussy’s bare,wife.” His voice deepens on the endearment. “Once you’re healed, I’m gonna spend an inordinate amount of time with my face between these thighs.”

I’m burning alive. Incendiary heat engulfs me at his wicked words.

“Have you ever had a man eat this pretty cunt?” He traces a finger over my slit. His light touch arrows straight into my soul. And my body is seconds from dissolving. Tingles of pleasure race along my spine. And I wonder if I’ll come just from him touching me. If he reaches a little further down, he’ll find my pussy slicked with dew.

---