Page 70 of Enchanted Hero
She melted in his arms, surrendering to pure sensation. She parted her lips for him, moaning softly as he stole her breath, as she began her own exploration. Heat raced through her, sensitizing her most delicate spots, making her swollen and achy and ripe. She clutched his arms, pulled him even closer.
Then, from across the room, came a soft gasp.
Everleigh and Alexander froze at the same time, breaking apart like two guilty teenagers caught in the back of a rusty pick-up truck. Yet she couldn’t turn away. His eyes flashed, his muscles flexed, and he was anything but in control. But his power?It soared.
“Just get us a variety of dishes, Henry.” Alexander didn’t shift his gaze, his forceful tone belying any claim to calmness. He stood like a powerful predator, poised to pounce. His prey?
Her.
“Of course,” the waiter sputtered. “I’m sorry.”
Alexander didn’t give a response, and the waiter clearly wasn’t waiting for one. The rapid patter of footsteps signaled his departure.
She spoke first, “I’m sorry.”
He raised an eyebrow. “That wasn’t the reaction I was hoping for.”
Heat washed over her. “I didn’t mean it like that.” She fought for focus. Somehow managed not to leap back into his arms and finish what they’d started. “We can’t do this.” She drew a raspy breath. “This can’t happen.”
He folded his arms across his chest.
“It’s not a good idea,” she whispered, even as her traitorous body protested it was an excellent idea. “Our relationship must stay professional.”
Again he didn’t object, yet challenge burned. If she could deny the attraction, it would be easy, but all she wanted to do was lick him up like an ice cream sundae. “I can’t discuss this now. Please.”
His expression softened, as he clearly recognized her unease. “I’ll let it go for now.” His voice was almost as growly as hers. “But no matter how much you deny it, this isn’t over.”
No, it wasn’t.
Yet at least she had a postponement of the reckoning, as Alexander led her back to her seat. He brushed his hand against her back, and she fought not to lean back into his touch, to return to the heat. Keeping her face passive was an accomplishment of self-discipline as he retook his own seat. The conversation began lightly, mild matters such as the restaurant and the sea life it celebrated, before moving to business. “I think the employees are transitioning well.”
She relaxed enough to allow a soft smile. “You gave them a raise and free food. What’s not to like?”
He nodded his acknowledgment. “Bribery can be effective, although it didn’t work for you.”
“When it didn’t work, you resorted to blackmail.” She smoothed the linen on her lap. “While I obviously don’t like your methods, I appreciate how you treat my employees. They like you.”
“Despite you making it seem like I’m a wicked witch?”
“Don’t be silly.” Everleigh allowed a wider smile. “Witches are female. You’re a wicked warlock.”
“A warlock?” He rubbed his chin. “I suppose the name fits. As long as you add all-powerful to it.”
She laughed softly. Somehow the man could take them from an awkward situation to comfortable camaraderie within minutes. “How did you get started in business? Everyone probably already knows this, but I’m behind in my Alexander Stone history. All I know is you’re self-made.”
“I didn’t inherit my wealth from my family, although they’re very supportive. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
It was a refreshing stance. So many successful people took their upbringing for granted.
He continued, “When I was young, I realized I had certain… talents.”
A whisper traced through her, as if it was significant somehow. He obviously wasn’t trying to brag, just find the right word. “Talents?”
He hesitated. “Talents in business – negotiating, managing people, networking.” He waved his hand, yet still something seemed missing from the list. What wasn’t he saying?
“Getting everyone to do your bidding?” she offered.
He gave her a pointed look. “Almost everyone.”
