Page 24 of Bad Rio

Together they sat, companionably eating the apple and granola bars. Offering her a sip of water, he asked, “Are you thinking about it? You know ... us? Over there?” He pointed at the bed.

She pursed her lips, appearing to hide a smile. “Yes, I’m thinking.”

“Are you thinking ... about me making you happy? Have you considered what I can do for you with these?” He held up his hands and waggled his fingers.

Her mouth twisting, she tried harder to suppress her smile.

“How about my mouth?” he asked. “Have you thought about that? Or my tongue?”

In a brief flash, her eyes glowed and he saw it, dammit. He saw the telltale spark of sensual interest. But then, they glinted in renewed humor.

“Or this?” Dropping his hand to his pants, he cupped his sex. “Come on, Becca. A woman doesn’t come by opportunities like this often. I’ve got mad skills. Come and get it.”

Becca burst out laughing.

Not the reaction he’d been hoping for, but not bad. He could be charming if the situation warranted. He shook his head in pretended regret. “Your loss.”

To Rio’s everlasting regret, Becca spent the entire daythinking.

When the shadows lengthened, he knew it was time to leave. He wasn’t going to bed Rebecca De Monte after all. The idea soured his mood and he became curt with her.

“Get ready and put on your hat,” he said gruffly.

She didn’t seem to notice. “We’re leaving? Now?”

He nodded once. “I’ll get the scooter. We’ll be at the rendezvous in about an hour.”

“Great!” she said. “Do you want me to turn out the lamp?”

“Yeah.” He banged out the door and stamped towards the Vespa. Damn women! Once he made the delivery, he’d never see her again. He really hated lost sexual opportunities.

Maybe he’d even miss her a little.

Chapter Ten

Afull moon offereddiffused light to the outside landscape. Its glow illuminated the hills and trees and emphasized shadows. The woods smelled like damp, leafy foliage. With a sure hand, Rio drove the scooter efficiently through the forest, and down mountain paths, and finally, onto paved roads.

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