“Hey, that was a very professional demonstration.”
“You were flirting.”
“Multitasking.”
He studied me with a level of focus that sent a ripple down my spine. “Why lingerie?”
I hesitated. Because that question opened a door I’d shut, and I’d never confided in anyone about my dream.
But the soft hum of the plane and the steady warmth of Elijah’s presence made something inside me loosen.
“I studied fashion design,” I said slowly. “Though I didn’t finish.”
“Why not?”
“Life.”
His gaze stayed on me. No pressure or judgement. Just curiosity or even fascination over me.
So I continued. “My mum got sick during my third year. Bills piled up. I needed to work and support her.” I shrugged. “Once you step off that track, it’s hard to climb back on.”
Elijah didn’t speak for a moment. Then he said quietly, “Yet you still design. And Crowley’s?”
My jaw tightened. “That didn’t go well.”
He set his elbows on his knees. “So they were a potential buyer. What would you do if nothing stood in your way?”
I stared out the window.
Clouds drifted past in silent white oceans.
“I’d launch my own line. Comfortable, sexy pieces that make women feel incredible. Not the torture devices some brands sell.”
His mouth curved. “You’re passionate about it.”
“Of course I am. Underwear sits closest to the body. It should feel powerful.”
He nodded slowly. “I’d buy that.”
“You don’t wear bras.”
He barked a laugh. It warmed me all the way through. Not only at his interest, but at his instant acceptance and support. I’d never had it.
He nudged my knee with his. “Smartass. Can I ask more?”
“Not yet. Maybe later.”
His gaze turned heated. “Then can you take that shirt off so I can get a closer look at the merchandise?”
I peeked at the door to the cabin, fever rising through my body.
Elijah smiled, sharklike. “Don’t worry about the crew. See this little button? If I press it, they won’t disturb us.”
I kicked off my heels and toed the button in question. If I had to be all fancy and fly private, there was no chance I was missing out on the Mile High Club.
As always, Elijah didn’t disappoint. At however many thousand feet, he spread me out like a feast and showed me how badly he wanted me. And I didn’t hide any part of how much I needed him back.
He made me come somewhere over the middle of the country, millions of people beneath us unaware.
