Page 8 of Dangerous Allure
I've always lived my life to my own beat, but with him, everything fits perfectly—like he was heaven-sent. I swallow, and then whisper, “I love you too.”
Marcus’s face lights in a happy grin as he lifts me off of him, both of us a sticky, satisfied mess. “Good.” He chuckles. “I didn’twant to have to keep you against your will, but I would have, if it came down to it.”
I laugh, pressing my forehead to his. Our mingled release drips down my thighs, leaving a wet spot on his bed. He scoops it up with his fingers, rubbing the mixture between my breasts before tweaking my nipples one last time.
He tips his head, his grin turning adorably lopsided. "You look freshly fucked, sunshine, but so damn cute."
I laugh out loud, the sound bubbling up from deep within. "Thanks, I think?"
He pulls me close again, pressing a tender kiss to my forehead. "Looks like happiness makes you horny, baby. That means I'll be getting laid a few times a day because I plan on keeping you completely blissful."
For a long moment, we lie there in silence, the only sound our ragged breathing. The world outside the tent seems distant, a mere backdrop to the profound connection we’ve just forged.
“Clara,” Marcus whispers, his voice filled with wonder. “You’re so incredible.”
I smile, feeling a warmth spread through me. “You are.”
He holds me close, his fingers tracing lazy patterns on my skin. “I meant what I said, Clara. I’ll protect you, no matter what.”
“I know,” I reply, my heart swelling with a mix of love and determination. “And I’ll be right by your side, no matter what we face.”
The future is uncertain, filled with unknown dangers and challenges. But with Marcus by my side, I feel ready to face whatever comes our way. Our fates are intertwined, our journey just beginning. And as we lie together, our bodies still humming with the aftershocks of our passion, I know that we’re stronger together than we could ever be apart.
The night deepens, the flickering light casting a warm glow over us. In this moment, everything feels right. Our partnership, our love, our future—it all feels possible, as long as we’re together. And as I drift off to sleep in Marcus’s arms, I know that whatever comes next, we’ll face it as one.
Chapter Six
Clara
The circus grounds hum with the vibrant energy of preparation. Performers flit between tents, each absorbed in their routines, the air thick with the scent of sawdust and anticipation. I weave through the crowd, feeling the curious and sometimes wary glances from my fellow performers. Their emotions swirl around me—excitement, jealousy, concern. I try to focus, pushing the distractions to the back of my mind.
Dante, the ringmaster, calls my name, cutting through the chaos. I turn to see him standing at the entrance of a practice tent, his expression serious. My stomach tightens. This isn't a casual summons.
Inside the tent, the atmosphere shifts. The noise of the circus fades to a muffled backdrop, replaced by a calm, almost solemn stillness. Dante gestures for me to sit, his eyes never leaving mine. His tent is filled with mementos of the long history of the Misfit Cabaret—old posters, faded photographs, and a collection of trinkets that seem to hold secrets of their own.
"Clara," he begins, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken concerns. "I've noticed the growing connection between you and Marcus."
I nod, feeling a mix of defensiveness and curiosity. "Yeah. We've been working closely together."
Dante’s gaze is steady, a mix of paternal concern and stern authority. "I've seen what happens when performers get too entangled with Marcus. There were others before you, Clara. Talented, promising performers who got too close and paid the price."
His words hit me like a punch to the gut. I knew Marcus had a past, but hearing it laid out like this is unsettling. "What do you mean,paid the price?"
Dante sighs, leaning back in his chair. "Marcus is driven, sometimes to the point of recklessness. His search for that fucking artifact, whatever it is, has consumed him. Those who got too close to him were dragged into his obsession. They lost focus, lost themselves. Some left the circus; others... well, let's just say it didn't end well for them."
I swallow hard, the gravity of Dante’s words sinking in. "Marcus told me about the artifact. About his parents. I understand the risks."
Dante’s eyes narrow slightly. "Do you, Clara? Do you really understand what you're getting into? Marcus's world is filled with shadows and secrets. It's dangerous."
I feel a surge of defensiveness. "I know it's dangerous, Dante. But I care about him. I believe in what we're doing. And I believe in him."
Dante’s expression softens, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "I don't doubt your feelings, Clara. But feelings can blind us to the truth. Just be careful. You’ve only been here a week–he told me you already quit your other job and are joining us on the road. I just don't want to see you get hurt."
I nod, my emotions a tumultuous mix of defensiveness and understanding. "I appreciate your concern, Dante. Truly. But my feelings for Marcus run deep. I'm standing by him."
Dante studies me for a long moment, then nods slowly. "Very well. Just promise me you'll stay vigilant. And if things start to spiral out of control, come to me. I’ll help you."
"I will. I promise."
