Page 116 of The Empress

She nods, looking like she’s about to wet herself.

“But to you, I’m just your best friend’s husband. I promise you’ll be safe while visiting here.”

“Okay.” Kisten lets out a breath of relief. “That’s good to know.”

I step to the side and gesture at the front door. “Come in. You must be tired from the long flight.”

“Did you sleep on the plane?” Haven asks as she pulls Kristen into the house.

“Nope. Not a wink, but don’t worry, I’m not tired.”

When I walk toward the kitchen, I ask, “Would you like anything to drink, Kristen?”

The women pause in the foyer and turn to look at me.

“Coffee would be nice,” Kristen replies.

I head through the doorway and get busy making coffee, and when I hear footsteps behind me, I ask, “What would you like,principessa?”

“Another cup of tea, please.”

When I’m done, I place their beverages on the island and say, “I’ll give you some time alone so you can catch up.”

Haven’s eyes dart to my face. “You didn’t say anything about going out.”

“I’m not. I’ll be in my office doing some research on your Kindle.”

Haven blushes something fierce, then grumbles, “Don’t you dare.”

A wide smile spreads over Kristen’s face. “I have a few books I can recommend.”

“Hush!” Haven playfully pushes Kristen’s shoulder.

I walk to my wife, and wrapping my hand around the back of her neck, I tug her closer while leaning down. My lips nip at hers a few times before I give her a tender kiss.

I pull back, and locking eyes with her, I smirk while dropping my voice to the seductive tone she likes. “I’ll make lunch around two.”

She can’t keep from smiling as she replies, “Thank you.”

When I walk out of the kitchen, I hear Kristen squealing. It’s followed by Haven’s bubbly laughter, which I’ll never get tired of hearing.

I was kidding when I said I’m going to do some research on Haven’s Kindle. I have a client who’s in the running to become the CEO of one of the largest construction companies in the world. I have to create false information that will make it look like his competitor is mixed up in dark shit.

I’m also planning a surprise for Haven, which I hope will be ready on time.

HAVEN

“Uhm, excuse me, ma’am,” Kristen shrieks, fanning her face with her hand. “Principessa?” I watch as she swoons hard. “And that kiss. Wowza!”

Shaking my head, I pick up my tea and take a sip.

“Now I understand why you’ve fallen in love with him. That smirk will turn any woman with a pair of working ovaries into mush.”

I laugh at her silliness, then she picks up her coffee and says, “Give me a tour of this gorgeous mansion.”

As we walk out of the kitchen, I ask, “So, how was the flight with Edoardo?”

“He’s so damn quiet. I had to do most of the talking. It was like pulling teeth.” She glances at me, then shakes her head. “No, get whatever plan you’re scheming out of your pretty little head. Edoardo might be hot, but he’s way too serious and quiet for my liking.”