Page 24 of Her Greek Protector

Chapter 7

Alexi heard her words, but between her hands on his body, and the delightful smell of her shampoo wafting towards him, there was no way he could “relax.” His body was strung tight, his physical response to her nearness growing with each encounter. He mentally wondered if she was feeling the attraction just as much as he was. Each time he was near her, the sexual chemistry seemed to escalate. Try as he might, he just couldn’t convince his body that Aimee wasn’t for him.

If I wasn’t in so much pain, I’d have my hands on her body and my lips on hers. I wouldn’t be sitting here, trying to pretend I’m not affected by her nearness, both rejoicing and cursing the fact that she’s touching me. How pathetic is that?

Aimee massaged his hand for several long minutes. “How’s your head feeling now?”

Alexi cracked one eye open and gave her a soft smile. “It’s getting better.”

She smiled back at him. “Want to tell me what set your headache off this time? I’m a good listener and since I barely speak Greek, it’s not like I’m going to be able to share much of what you tell me with anyone.”

Alexi opened both eyes, watching her carefully for a few moments before speaking. “You know about the stock transfer?”

She nodded. “Yes, and I know that Gemma didn’t want the stock and transferred the shares to Damien with Leo having the voting rights until he reaches his majority. But that will all go away now, won’t it?”

Alexi shrugged. “That remains to be seen. My brother and I briefly discussed this issue and he isn’t inclined to return the stock to me without having a big family meeting.”

“But won’t everything go back to the way it was before? The only reason the stock was transferred was because everyone thought you were dead. You clearly are not dead. You should talk to Gemma.”

“I do not have to discuss this with Gemma as the ultimate decision lies with my brother. He likes his new role in the company and wants it to continue. In my absence, it seems my brother has discovered he likes working and seeing the fruits of his labors.”

Aimee shook her head. “I take it you and Leo never worked together before your disappearance? You two can’t figure out a way to share the company?”

Alexi was bemused by her questions and reached up a hand, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Efkharisto.”

“For what?”

“For helping make my pain tolerable and for listening. Now, I would like to return the favor. You seemed saddened by something earlier. On the balcony. I, too, am a good listener.”

Aimee sighed and then tucked her feet beneath her. “I was just feeling a bit sorry for myself. It’s nothing.”

“I disagree. Why would you need to feel sorry for yourself? You are a beautiful young woman with the world at your disposal.”

Aimee gave a derisive laugh. “That may be the world you live in, but not all of us have an endless bank account or the ability to do and go wherever we choose.”

Alexi searched her eyes for a moment. “So, pretend. If you had no financial worries and could go and do whatever your heart desired, what would you be planning for your future?”

Aimee cocked her head and then bit her bottom lip. “It sounds stupid. I mean, I don’t even know if I’m any good.”

“You’ve already lost me. Good at what?” Alexi watched the play of emotions cross her face.

“Photography,” she told him, waiting as if she expected him to shoot down her dream.

“Many people make a very good living taking pictures. Why would that be stupid?” Alexi questioned her.

“Well, I mean…I don’t have any formal training...”

“So, enroll in a photography school. That problem is easily solved,” Alexi told her with a confident smile.

Aimee laughed again. “So says you. For your information, I did check into some schools, both here and back home, but it would take me years to save up that kind of money.”

“How much does a school like this cost?” His hand started to reach for her again, but he tucked it beneath his thigh.

“Six thousand dollars plus equipment. I know…”

“Done. You will tell me where to write the check and I will have it for you tomorrow.”

Aimee surged backwards, shaking her head. “No way! I’m not letting you, or anyone, pay for my schooling. Why would you even make such an offer? You don’t even know me.”