Page 51 of Legacy Of Ashes

"And if I refuse?"

Her smile could stop hearts. "Then Conall escorts you outside, and we see how well you swim with broken legs."

Heat rushes through me at the way she says my name. Like she owns it. Like she owns me.

I step forward, gun pointed at O'Brien's chest. "Your choice. Ireland or the harbor."

He deflates. "Ireland."

"Smart man." Saoirse nods to the guards. "Help Danny pack. His flight leaves at midnight."

As they escort O'Brien out, he stops at the door. "This isn't over."

"Yes, it is," I say quietly. "And if you contact anyone about family business, that cottage will need a new tenant."

After the door closes, Saoirse addresses the remaining men. "Anyone else have concerns?"

Silence. Complete submission.

"Excellent. Council meetings will be monthly. Questions?"

The lieutenants file out, offering respectful nods. When we're alone, I holster my gun and move to the window, but I'm watching her reflection.

"You handled that perfectly," I say.

"I had good backup." Her voice comes from right behind me.

I turn, and she's close enough to touch. The scent of her perfume makes my head spin.

"O'Brien was always going to be a problem," I tell her, stepping closer.

"Will he stay quiet?"

"He'll disappear if he's smart." My hand finds her waist. "If not, I have friends in Cork."

Her eyes search mine, and I see hunger burning there. The same need that's been eating at me for months.

"Conall," she whispers.

"Saoirse." My thumb traces her lower lip. "Do you know what watching you command that room did to me?"

Her breath catches. "Tell me."

"Made me hard as a rock." I press against her, letting her feel my erection. "Made me want to bend you over this table and show every man here who you belong to."

"Who do I belong to?" she asks, voice breathless.

"Me." I grip her hair, tilting her head back. "You're mine, Saoirse."

"Then take me."

Our mouths crash together, months of wanting exploding into desperate need. She tastes like sin and power, everythingI've craved. I back her against the wall, my thigh pressing between her legs.

"Someone could walk in," she gasps.

"Let them." I bite her neck, making her moan. "Let them see their queen getting fucked by her king."

Her hands fumble with my belt. "Your apartment. Now."