Page 61 of Dirty Husband

My world goes white, nothing but blinding light, nothing but the purest bliss in the universe.

"Beautiful." Shep's voice is a low growl. Equal parts demand, dare, appreciation. He takes one step toward me. Places his hand on my hips. Steadying me.

Then his arms are around me and I'm melting into his body.

He holds me closely for a long moment, then he helps me up, smooths my dress, presses his lips to mine.

It's not a kiss for show. It's not the peck of a friend. It's pure, deep need.

For my body? My obedience? My love?

I'm not sure. I'm not sure what I'm offering when I kiss him back. Only that I want all of it. Everything.

He pulls away with a heady sigh. "I'll go back to the table first. Wait a minute, then join me."

"They'll know—"

"Does that bother you?"

Maybe it should, but it doesn't. I shake my head.

He smiles. "Dirty girl."

Maybe that should bother me too, but it doesn't. It only makes me ache for him.

How can I be needy and satisfied at once? It defies reason. But then Shep always has.

I let him unlock the door and leave the room. Then I smooth my dress, check my hair and makeup in the bathroom, wash my hands.

I was wrong about the dress. I'm the one out of my mind. But I was wrong about caring too.

I'm going to take his dare.

I'm going to get on my knees and beg.

But that isn't losing. It's winning.

I'm going to get what I want.

I'm going to get every single thing I want.

Chapter Seventeen

Jasmine

Steady feet, subtle smile, effortless expression. I smooth my dress. Hold my bag to my hip. Walk casually, like I've been in the bathroom perfecting my lipstick, not in the closet touching myself.

There are eyes on me. People are staring. There's something in my posture, my smile, my ruffled hair. Something that gives me away.

Do people know? Does it matter?

I suppose it's better for Shepard this way. It adds credence to the wholewe're madly in lovething.

There. I approach the table. Try out an aloof expression.

Shep does nothing to hide his satisfied smile. He might as well screamthat's right, I fucked my fiancée.

"Long line?" Ian looks to Jeff and raises a brow. The restaurant is quiet. And more than half the patrons are men. It's clear there isn't a long line.