Page 98 of Wild Tangled Hearts

His head tilts back as his laughter fills the air, a warm, melodious sound.

“Should we go back inside?” I ask.

“Yeah.” His breath is warm against my mouth. “I was wondering if you could take a few days off this week.”

“Why?”

“I have to go to New York for a few days and I was hoping you’d come.” He adds, his voice low and seductive, “I swear I’ll make it worth it.”

A rush of excitement courses through me at the thought of exploring New York City with him. His sexy smirk and the promise in his eyes only add to the temptation.

My palms rest on his stomach, and through the fabric of his shirt, I can feel the sculpted contours of his abs. The idea of spending three days alone with Sebastian in a hotel room is incredibly enticing. “I’d love to go,” I say, my voice filled with desire, “but I’ll have to check and see if I can manage it.”

Sebastian kisses me again. The potency of our connection electrifies the surrounding air, and I can sense his desire mirrored in every touch, every embrace.

When he finally pulls away, he looks into my eyes with a smoldering intensity. “If you can’t make it to New York,” he says, his voice husky, “I’ll block off next weekend just for you. Either way, Bella, I’m going to have you in my bed for three days straight.”

His words send an aching warmth to my core, and I don’t know what to choose, because both options sound absolutely delicious.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

Even if it means getting in trouble, take time off work and go to New York with Sebastian. Turn to this page.

As fun as New York sounds, it’s not a good time to go away. Miss him for a few days while he’s gone, and spend the entire weekend with him when he returns. Turn to this page.

PartSeven

Not What They Seem

In the theater of love, some wear masks so well, we may not see the true actors until the final act unravels.

Chapter43

Damien

THE TURNING POINT

The seconds drag on like hours as I clutch Sebastian's phone, my trembling fingers nearly slipping off the edges. The police are still in my house, going through the shattered remnants of my once-peaceful home. The intrusive flashlight beams dance across my living room, casting eerie shadows on the walls.

I've already given my statement. The words were heavy on my lips as I recounted the terrifying intrusion. The man's threat still echoes in my ears, and my heart races with fear. But it was nothing compared to the call I made to Damien, hearing the anger and fear in his voice that mirrored my own.

Sebastian hasn't left my side, and I'm grateful for his presence. But it's Damien I honestly long to have standing beside me.

A shiver races through me, and I rub my arms. “I’m not sure why I’m so cold.”

“Here.” Sebastian grabs a blanket from the couch and places it over my shoulders, and he pulls me against him, rubbing my back. “You’ll warm up soon. I have an aged malt whiskey that would help if you change your mind about coming to my place.” He winks and gives me a teasing grin.

“Thanks, but my boyfriend...” I stumble over the word because I’m not sure that’s what he is. We’ve never really named what we are. “He’ll be here soon.”

I hear the front door open, and my heart skips a beat.Damien.As he steps inside, his eyes lock onto the scene before him, and I can see the jealousy that flickers in his gaze.

Sebastian releases me and extends a hand. "Ah, the infamous boyfriend, I assume?"

Damien grunts, ignoring Sebastian's outreached hand, and strides directly to me. He pulls me so tightly against his chest that I can hardly breathe. His lips press against my forehead, and he growls, "So damn sorry, Bella."

"I'll leave you two alone," Sebastian says, his voice low, and even in Damien’s presence, he doesn’t back down. "But remember, Bella, call me if you need anything.”

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