Page 72 of Lessons in Love
“It’s not midnight yet. I thought we’d kiss as the clock strikes twelve and all that traditional stuff that couples do.”
“I was thinking we’d do something else.”
“I’m open.”
“That’s part of the plan.”
A devious smirk accentuates her red lips. “I’m liking the sound of this plan. Should I say my goodbyes?”
I send her a wink. “You should definitely say your goodbyes.” Stepping back, I add, “Meet me at the elevators in ten minutes.”
“I’ll be there.”
I could stand here all day, watching her sway through the crowd, but there’s no way I’m missing this very important date. Screw the lesson plan, this is a date with destiny.
The elevator arrives just as she does. When we step on, she asks, “Your place or mine, big boy?”
“Mine,” I reply, referring to the apartment and the girl.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Thirty minutes until midnight. The countdown is on and the door is open. I had only enough time to do the basics, but I think she’ll like it. When we walk into the large apartment, her mouth drops open. “This is all yours?”
“Yes.”
“You own the entire fourth floor?”
“I own the entire building.”
She does a double take. “Guess I chose the right bartender then.”
I chuckle. “Guess so, but I think fate had us locked up long before we met.”
Walking around the empty space, she stops to look out the windows. Her hands press to the glass and she looks around at the neighborhood. She looks damn good taking up that real estate. When she turns back, she’s smiling, but it’s soft like her delicious curves. “You’ve always been quite the romantic.”
“Only for you, V.” I hold my hand out to her. “Come here. I want to show you something.”
I lead her to the master bedroom. Just inside the doorway, she halts in surprise, a hand covering her mouth as her eyes get glassy. “Hardy.”
“Virginia.” I had to have a little fun.
“You did this for me?”
“Yes.” I’m quite proud of myself. Finding a mattress company to deliver on the eve of New Year’s Eve was tough, but that’s what is so great about this city. You can find anything you want at any hour for the right price. Money talks. Fortunately I’ve got enough to hold the conversation.
She walks to the bed and sits on the fluffy blanket that matches hers. I thought it would make her feel more at home, more relaxed, and comforted. Battery-operated candles fill the floor along the far wall and I rigged some drapes into place this afternoon. I hate to be fucking blinded in the morning. And if all goes according to plan, we’ll be sleeping late.
I have a bar cart set up with bottles of water, liquor, some snacks, and a bucket of chilled champagne. It’s New Year’s, which means celebrating, which means champagne. I pop the cork as she slips off her shoes. I want those damn shoes on, but I want her in bed naked more. “This place is beautiful and what you did in this room . . . Hardy, you’ve stolen my heart.”
When I sit next to her, I say, “I don’t want to steal your heart. I just want to be a part of it.”
“You’re more than a part. You own the whole entire thing.”
We kiss and then toast, “To us.” Simple. Sweet. And uncomplicated. Just like the woman before me. After we take a sip, I set the glasses on the floor, and cup her face. “I want to make love to you.”
Her hands cover mine, and without hesitation, she says, “I want that too.”
Languid lips become eager as I move my hand to the back of her head, holding her close. The fire ignited at the partyflames the passion that’s burning within. Kissing her is one of my favorite pastimes, but I wonder if it will be the victor after tonight. Our tongues touch, but our hands are tentative. I whisper, “I’ll go slow.”
