But I know one thing for sure. She’s hiding something. And it’s something she can’t bring herself to think about because I saw the fear enter her eyes when I asked the question.
I will find out what it is.
My sister’s words ring through about “wine and dine,” shifting it from just sexual. Is that what I want with Leonore? I can’t stay away from her and only want to learn more about her.
“Have dinner with me.”
She looks at me. “We’re literally eating right now, which by the way, you haven’t paid in full yet.”
“I’m talking about a proper date. Tonight, you and me and somewhere ridiculously decadent. You’ve given me your sunrise, now give me your sunset.”
Her gaze narrows on me, those dark circles beneath her eyes harrowing against sharp cheekbones. She’s internally fighting with herself. I can see it in her gaze.
She lifts an eyebrow. “What were you thinking?”
I can’t help the smirk. It looks like the black cat is becoming more curious.
“Dinner at The Sage Leaf.”
Her eyebrows lift. “Reservations there are impossible to get.”
“And I am an expert at making the impossible possible.”
“Does that involve a body coming across my table?”
“Only if they don’t play nice. I can be a reasonable man, Doc.”
She scoffs into her coffee as she takes a sip but finally says, with a tone as if she’s granting me a favor, “Fine, I’ll let you wine and dine me at The Sage Leaf if you insist, but only because of the food. I heard it’s the best in town.”
“And then afterward, I plan on filling your cunt with my cock for dessert. I can also be very charming?—”
“Which is debatable.”
“And make sure that you can’t walk or speak with how tightly I pin you down by your throat.”
Her eyes widen for just a split second before the small smile plays on her luscious lips. “Careful what you wish for. Maybe I won’t play nice.”
My cock jumps. I’m betting on it.
Her amusement softens, and she reaches over and swipes her thumb across my chin.
“The savage killer has food on his face.” She holds up her thumb and then slides it between her plush lips, slowly sucking ketchup from the tip. I watch, mesmerized, knowing she’s intentionally teasing me, especially when she makes a popping noise with her lips. “Very intimidating.”
Her gaze dances with mischief.
And that’s when it hits me like a fucking bullet.
This is beyond obsession. This is the fucking need to claim her as mine.
34
LEONORE
The restaurant is ridiculously opulent. No wonder it takes months to get a reservation. With its decadent decor and a guest list that reads like a who’s who of high rollers, it screams money, power, and importance. Crystal chandeliers spill soft warm light across marble floors, and my date sits at the very center of it like he is the king.
Which in this town, he is.
Despite knowing better than to agree, I did. Though the truth is, I was surprised by our morning. I didn’t like how many questions he asked. But in the silence that remained between each, we sat there comfortably. It’d been a long time since I’d so easily just sat in peace with someone else. And I hate to admit it, but I have become curious about him. Though I know it’s more than that, no matter how much I try to fight it myself.
