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“I’ll give you some privacy.” He gave a subtle nod before spinning around.
“Wait,” I called out.
He stopped in his tracks, his eyes meeting mine.
“You don’t have to leave. I…” I blew out a breath. “I wouldn’t mind some company.”
He arched a single brow. “I thought you needed some time to yourself.”
“More like some time away from all of them.” I nodded toward the bay windows overlooking the pristine grounds.
“I take it this isn’t how you pictured celebrating your birthday.” A small smile tipped on Gideon’s mouth as he slowly walked toward me.
“Not in the least.” I brought my wine glass to my lips and took a sip.
The intensity of his gaze held me captive, like a caged bird unable to break free.
Or perhaps, unwillingto break free.
He leaned casually against the ornate desk in the center of the room, his dark suit clinging to every ripple and bulge of his physique. The warm glow of the subtle light cast shadows across his face, adding an air of mystery to his already intriguing presence.
“Then tell me, Imogene Prescott…” He crossed his arms over his chest, everything about him exuding power and control.
Somuch control.
“How wouldyouprefer to spend your birthday?”
“A scavenger hunt,” I answered before I could stop myself.
“A scavenger hunt?” he repeated, as if uttering words he’d never heard before.
“A few years ago, a…friend planned a scavenger hunt on my birthday.” I stared into the distance as the memory danced in front of my eyes like an old movie. “That morning, a courier dropped off my first clue. And throughout the day, each clue led me to a different part of the city with a different surprise, all things he knew I’d love. Until the final clue led me…” I trailed off, my chest aching.
“Well, it doesn’t matter. It was a fun, unique way to celebrate the day. Don’t get me wrong,” I added quickly. “I’m grateful that Liam went through the trouble of throwing this party for me.”
“But you don’t need all the attention.”
It wasn’t a question. More of a statement.
“Exactly.”
“Answer me this...” He pushed off the desk, his long strides bringing him closer. “Whatdoyou need?”
There was a sensuality to his tone that had the tiny hairs all over my body standing on end, an electric current slowly snaking through me.
“What do I need?”
“From what I’ve observed, you tend to put other’s needs ahead of your own. You don’t like big birthday parties, yet you let your friend throw one for you.”
I parted my lips, but what could I say? He wasn’t wrong.
“So tell me, Imogene. What doyouneed?”
I swallowed hard, my mouth becoming dry as he continued inching toward me until there was barely any space remaining between us. His scent engulfed me in a heady mixture of leather, spice, and danger.
I sensed it from the beginning. This man was dangerous.
Yet I couldn’t find it in me to care.
