Page 49 of Thorns of Desire

“Don’t,” I whispered, my heart thudding erratically. “Don’t appease me just because I called you out on it,” I said, laughing uncomfortably so he couldn’t tell it hurt me not to hear from him.

I didn’t know why, but damn it, it felt like being abandoned. Again.

“I’m not in the habit of saying what I don’t mean, Athena.” He took my chin between his fingers and I grew distracted by his hand. It was strong and veiny, and I knew how good it feltagainst my skin. “I’ve been working on chasing leads on the Triads. To keep you safe.”

His gaze dropped to my lips and a flash of something sinful passed his expression before he seemed to cave in to this pull and brush his mouth against mine for the briefest moment.

“No man, dead or alive, could forget you,” he said, breathing life into me.

Butterflies fluttered in my stomach as I inhaled his intoxicating scent. I met his dark gaze, every nerve in my body tingling in expectation.

“Now tell me what you’re doing here,” he demanded softly.

“Dancing?” My answer came out as a question. “How about you?” I asked bravely, my senses engulfed by his closeness. “Dance clubs don’t seem like your scene. Too old and all?—”

“Don’t you say it,amorina,” he teased, and my spirits instantly lifted. I should be alarmed at how easily my mood changed knowing he hadn’t just abandoned me. “We both know you need an experienced, firmer, andolderhand, and none of thestronzosin this club fit the bill.”

“Well, I wouldn’t say none,” I said, straight-faced. “You’re in this club, aren’t you?”

He brushed his thumb over my bottom lip before dipping it into my mouth. On instinct, I sucked on it and watched his eyes flare with heat.

I hummed in approval as I closed my eyes and swayed on my feet.

“Youaredrunk,” he groaned, giving me a dry stare.

“Not drunk enough, handsome,” I murmured, and he immediately stiffened. “What, you don’t like that title?” I sighed when his expression didn’t ease up. “Italian daddy?”

“Stop, Athena. Being drunk and alone in a nightclub is never smart.”

A playful grin curved my lips. “I’m not drunk. Not for long anyhow. I just drank an entire bottle of water. And I’m not alone.”

He wrapped his strong arm around my waist. “You’re leaving now.”

My eyes snapped to him. “I can’t leave Raven.”

“Trust me, she’s in good hands.”

I shook my head. “No, she’s not. Aiden Callahan is the devil, horns and all.”

He chuckled. “Really? I must have missed those.”

I nodded seriously despite the nausea flooding my stomach. “Trust me, we have to take her with us.”

He let out a sardonic breath. “As you wish. Let’s go find her, and then I’m taking you both home.”

I leaned toward him, burying my face into his well-carved chest. “Maybe we can hook up again tonight.” I took a deep whiff of his scent before I slurred my next words. “You smell so good, it makes me horny.”

Manuel’s lips brushed my ear, sending goose bumps scattering across my body. “Not until you sober up.”

I snorted and broke into a fit of giggles for no good reason. I tried to regain control of myself but failed. Maybe Iwasdrunker than I thought.

I muttered something about using the bathroom, and Manuel followed me inside.

“Everyone out,” he barked while I struggled to pull my dress over my hips.

Heels clacked against the floor and then the door shut.

I sighed, suddenly feeling better already, and exited the stall.