Page 5

“Miss Michaels, the pilot has just announced that we’re at cruising altitude. Would you care to be escorted to the Ozone Bar for cocktails?”
“Umm, sure. But I can find my own way there, thanks.”
“Are you sure? It’s really no bother,” he insisted.
You need to let go a little. Face your fears.
“On second thoughts, I’d love be escorted.”
“Great, I’ll be right outside when you’re ready.”
Since she’d dressed before unpacking, there was nothing left to do but slip her feet into the black Louboutin heels that she’d splurged out on a week ago in anticipation of her trip, open the door, and step into the corridor.
“This way, Miss Michaels.” Bjorn, blond and buff with a smile that lit up the whole plane, stepped forward and shut the door for her.
“Thanks.”
Leia waited for the flash of warning, of danger, and breathed a sigh of relief when her senses remained calm.
She walked alongside him, unable to stop her gaze from lingering on his well-toned biceps. The inch-thick guide that had come with her ticket had mentioned the exclusive use of valetsin every way.
Thesexpart of the guide had made her stomach dive and quiver anxiously, despite her determination to go ahead with the trip. But the clamoring had finally grown too loud to suppress. The need had surpassed the fear.
She realized she was still staring at Bjorn when his smile slowly turned curious… then carnal. He moved closer, and she caught a whiff of expensive aftershave.
“Where’s the Ozone Bar?” she asked to divert his attention. Whether or not she would choose to take advantage of what he was offering, it was inappropriate to gawp like a bitch in heat. Even if that was exactly what she felt like lately.
“It’s on the lower deck, two floors below. We can take the elevator, or we can take the scenic route.” He paused beside a sleek glass elevator, one golden eyebrow raised.
The thought of being confined with him in the small space washed away a layer of the excitement that had suffused her moments ago.
“I prefer the stairs.”
His eyes widened slightly at her abrupt tone, and Leia curbed the urge to apologize.
“I always like to get my bearings as quickly as possible when I visit someplace new.”
Always have an escape route in mind. Mentally and physically.
She pushed Warren’s voice aside and mustered another smile.
Bjorn nodded. “Of course. Great idea. The design of the plane is such that you can avoid certain lounges if you prefer. I’ll show you the whole layout before we go to the Ozone Bar, if you like?”
She shook her head. She’d already memorized the layout of the various lounges. “That’s fine. I don’t need a full tour just yet. Just take me to the bar, please.”
“Sure.” He gestured for her to go ahead of him at the top of the wide, low-lit indigo-colored set of stairs that led downward. As she took the first step, her heel caught in the carpet.
Bjorn caught her around the waist. “Easy there.”
She tried not to panic at his touch, but her senses flared with enough adrenaline to make her jump.
Again, his eyes widened before a small frown creased his brow. “Are you okay?”
“Yes, thanks. That could’ve been embarrassing,” she said quickly.
“Good thing I was around, huh?” His white grin flashed.
She smiled back and gripped the railing. “Yeah.”