Book 1 - Page 98 (2/2)

That's the bottom line. I want to be with him. My inner G.o.ddess sighs with relief. I reach the conclusion that she rarely uses her brain to think but another vital part of her anatomy, and at the moment, it's a rather exposed part.

”Don't,” he murmurs.

I frown and turn to look at him.

”Don't what?” I haven't touched him.

”Over-think things, Anastasia.” Reaching out, he grasps my hand, draws it up to his lips, and kisses my knuckles gently. ”I had a wonderful afternoon. Thank you.”

And he's back with me again. I blink up at him and smile shyly. He's so confusing. I ask a question that's been bugging me.

”Why did you use a cable tie?”

He grins at me.

”It's quick, it's easy, and it's something different for you to feel and experience. I know they're quite brutal, and I do like that in a restraining device.” He smiles at me mildly.

”Very effective at keeping you in your place.”

I flush and glance nervously at Taylor, who remains impa.s.sive, eyes on road. What am I supposed to say to that Christian shrugs innocently.

”All part of my world, Anastasia.” He squeezes my hand and lets go, staring out of the window again.

His world indeed, and I want to belong in it, but on his termsI just don't know. He hasn't mentioned that d.a.m.ned contract. My inner musings do nothing to cheer me. I stare out of the window and the landscape has changed. We're crossing one of the bridges, surrounded by inky darkness. The somber night reflects my introspective mood, closing in, suffocating.

I glance briefly at Christian, and he's staring at me.

”Penny for your thoughts?” he asks.

I sigh and frown.

”That bad, huh?”

”I wish I knew what you were thinking.”

He smirks at me.

”Ditto, baby,” he says softly as Taylor speeds into the night toward Bellevue.

It is just before eight when the Audi draws into the driveway of a colonial-style mansion.

It's breathtaking, even down to the roses around the door. Picture-book perfect.

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