Page 43 of Claimed By the Villain

“What we have…” he blurts out.

“It’s perfect. But I need more. I need intimacy. I’m not going to go against what I believe just because I’ll be your wife. If you want me in the literal sense, you’re going to have to meet me halfway and build a bond between us.”

Chapter 23

After throwing her conditions at me, Jackie wanted to go home. I told her no—that she should pick one of the rooms, because I need at least a minimum level of control over this infuriating woman.

Where the hell is the sweet girl I imagined she was? In her place stands this goddess of lust, demanding that in order for me to have access to her sweet pussy, we have to build a connection.

As I drive through Manhattan’s empty streets in the middle of the night, I weigh my options, but from where I stand, I see no other choice but to make her my wife.

Connection.

Men don’t build connection. We get turned on and fuck the woman in question. When that desire lasts, I guess that’s called marriage.

If it were any other woman I was being forced to marry, I’d keep things on paper only and keep seeing my partners, butI’m honest enough to admit there’s no way I could have her as my wife for five years and still look at other women.

Fuck, she drove me insane with the way she came for me earlier today.

I don’t even realize I’m nearing her place until I spot the redhead, Taylor, on the sidewalk.

Jackie told me she’s pregnant, so my conscience won’t let me leave someone who’s already been through hell, like she has, exposed to risk. I don’t know how much the person—or people—after me know about the two of them.

I shut off my car and pull my hood over my head.

She startles when she sees me, but recognition sets in quickly.

“Be careful,” I warn.

Taylor looks at me, alarmed.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Exactly what I said. I have enemies. You should stay close to your boyfriend.”

“Where’s Jackie?”

“With me. She’ll be moving into my place soon.”

I just made that decision. I’m not taking any chances with her safety.

“I want to talk to her.”

“Call her tomorrow,” I say. “Now go home, Taylor.”

As I start to walk away, I catch sight of her baby’s father approaching. I didn’t exactly grow up with a shining example of fatherhood at home, but this guy has managed to set the fucking bar even lower. With a father like his, you don’t need enemies.

I get back in the car and drive straight home.

There’s no way out. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect her. Tomorrow, I’ll tell her I accept her conditions. I doubt she’ll stick to that sentimental idea for long, anyway. I’m experienced. Jackie burned like fire in my hands. Our desire is mutual anduncontrollable. Let’s see how long she lasts having me as her husband without fucking me.

In my building’s garage, I cut the engine and wave off the security detail that followed me with a nod.

I take the fire stairs instead of the elevator.

Inside the apartment, the silence tells me she’s probably already asleep.

I head straight for the shower and let the almost-cold water run over my naked body for a long while.