Page 233 of The Right Sign

“As opposed to what?” His eyebrow arch is downright naughty.

Something catches in my throat and I cough.

Thankfully, the elevators open.

I rush out in a cloud of embarrassment.

Once we get to Dare’s hotel room, my embarrassment disappears in a plume of fragrant smoke.

Shyness takes over in its place.

It’s been a while since I’ve been with anyone.

Okay, it’s been forever.

And I’m sure Dare’s had way more, uh, practice than me. What if this doesn’t go to either of our expectations because of our differences?

Don’t freak out. Just get undressed first.

I shrug out of my jumper, standing in my T-shirt and yoga pants, before suddenly freezing in the doorway.

Wait. Why am I alone here?

Dare was walking toward the balcony, but he notices that I’m not with him. He turns and his eyes meet mine.

I blink.

One side of his lips arches up darkly. He beckons me.

My feet are rooted in place, but my heart pops out of my chest and races around the room like a hairball in a hurricane.

Dare’s eyes glint in the semi-darkness. He approaches me with measured steps. A shadow gliding across a gilded room. It’s not long until he’s standing there, hovering over me. I retreat, suddenly fearful.

The doorknob digs into my back.

I tell myself to calm down as he reaches out to me.

My heart picks up speed.

So we’re doing this now? I quickly take stock of my presentation. I’m wearing my nude underwear from the show. I shaved, again… for the show. And my hair is a fresh install… thank you Tru Essential Fashion Show.

But I’ve had hours of traveling. Should I brush my teeth first? And does Dare have protection?

Three thick thumps vibrate the door at my back. Is someone knocking?

My head whips up and I take in Dare’s fond little smile. A second later, he twists the door knob… which was what he’d been reaching for earlier. Not me.

Another wave of heat hits my face and I realize I might die of humiliation before any clothes can come off. In fact, I’m already half-liquid. By the time Dare actually has his way with me, I’ll be a puddle of human goo.

The door opens wider and the hotel staff wheel in our dinner. They leave after receiving a tip and Dare closes the door.

We’re alone again.

He shakes his head slowly. “What wild thoughts are you thinking, sugar?”

I feel dizzy when I see Dare making the ‘cute’ sign with all four fingers.

A slow, burning pleasure washes through me. It’s like he put those fingers on my body.

---