Page 122 of Claim Me

“Mmm… I suggest you keep that in mind.” Her laugh sparkled like glass inside the cab. She stroked me for a few seconds before pulling her hand away. “Are you certain this is going to work?”

I placed my hand over my heart. “You’re doubting me?” She was now my full partner in the resort, even insisting on tweaking the contract as prepared by the unwanted attorney. I had to give the woman credit. She had a good business head on her shoulders.

“Doubting you? Of course not. But do I know you? Yes. You’re not finished with Popov yet.”

My laugh was enough of an admittance for her. “Perhaps you do know me far too well. I have a little surprise.”

As Ryker pulled in through the gates leading to the jet, she narrowed her eyes then pinched my jaw with her fingers. “You didn’t do anything stupid. Did you?”

“Not this guy. I have too much to live for. You should keep that in mind.”

“That scares me even more. But I don’t want anything to happen to you and you can be reckless.” Marissa was suddenly more serious.

“Reckless. I take offense to that,” I teased. “Nothing will happen to me. We’re a team.”

“A team, huh? Then I need to ask you about forging a deal for the Seattle Symphony to play in one of your resorts.”

I burst into laughter as Ryker pulled to a stop. “I think we can make that happen. If you’re a good girl.”

“I’m always good. Remember?”

As I stepped out, I nodded to my family members, who had already arrived. They were waiting by the jet for the entertainment of the evening. I reached into the back of the carto help her out. Once her foot was on the tarmac, I pulled her into my arms. “Mmm… You smell divine.”

“Champagne?” she asked. “What are you hiding?”

“This is just a celebratory send-off. Nothing more.”

“I don’t believe you.” She pressed her hand against my chest, arching her back as she leaned into me. As I lowered my head, she blew across my face.

“My perfect virtuoso.” I captured her mouth, instantly slipping my tongue between her lips.

“Get a room!” Alexsey yelled.

“Not allowed on the plane,” Mikhail bellowed.

I lifted my middle finger in response while enjoying the kiss tremendously. The way she was clinging to me reminded me just how lucky I was.

As a man. As her partner.

And as her lover.

Maybe to become her master. At some point.

When she pushed away, she rubbed her thumb across my lips, bringing it to her mouth and sucking. I shook my head. “So naughty.”

“Mmm…”

“Champagne?” Mikhail asked.

“Why not? As I said, we are celebrating.” I handed her a glass and checked my watch. “Any minute now.”

“For what?” Marissa pressed. “You will tell me.”

“Patience, my darling woman. Have patience.” I laughed and turned her to face the direction of the port, pulling her tightly against me.

The champagne was refreshing, the evening beautiful, and everything was set in motion.

As the seconds ticked by, I started to relax.