Page 69

“You’re not ruining my tires on hard asphalt. Or sinking the handbrake system for that matter.”

“But it was okay to do in the Mustang?” Olivia challenged.

“The hire company has a budget for it.”

“Really? They do?”

“Of course.” Grace had no idea, and probably not, hey...

But she enjoyed watching Olivia’s gorgeous eyes widen in astonishment and making her laugh. They strolled hand in hand through the streets of Little Havana, stopped for coffee, and explored a bustling artisan market they discovered on a side street. Then finished at Cafe La Trova, known for its delicious Cuban food, exotic cocktails, and Live Music. Toward the end of the meal, shared tapas and mojito criollo, Olivia slid a small jewelry box across the table.

“What’s this?”

“For you, Grace.” Olivia smiled. “Open it.”

In the box was a cute silver bracelet with five little stars engraved on it.

“Oh…”

“I bought it when you were talking to the glass maker at the market.”

Grace looked at the bracelet, back at her, and slowly raised an eyebrow. She was inexplicably moved and wanted to give herself time to digest.

“What’s the occasion?”

“Souvenir of a wonderful weekend.”

“Hmm.” Impossibly tongue-tied, Grace did not move.

“May I put it on you?” Olivia asked softly.

“Sure.”

She did and smiled in approval. “Perfect. Do you like it?”

“Yes, I… I really do. Thank you., Olivia.”

“And to you. I had a brilliant time.”

“Well.” Grace cleared her throat. “It takes two, of course.”

They went straight home after dinner. Olivia easily took her hand as they entered her spacious home. Grace followed her up the stairs and into the bedroom.

“Are you okay?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You were quiet on the way back.” Olivia locked her arms around her neck, pressing gently into her. Her eyes shone in the moonlight that filled the darkened room. “And I’ve been getting used to you backing me up against doors and walls, ravishing me with your mouth. So…”

“Are you saying I am failing in my duties?” Grace tried for an ironic tone that fell a little flat.

“Not at all.” Olivia kissed her. “I’m just making sure you’re alright.”

With a folded knuckle under her chin, Grace tilted her head back to brush her lips over the underside of her jaw. There was a sensitive spot right there; she had learned, closer to her ear, which always made her lover shiver. This time was no exception, and it elicited the same reaction in her.

“I love how responsive you are.”

“To you,” Olivia murmured. “With you, Grace.”