Page 136 of Beguiled

Everything was working as it should. The one piece that continued to irritate me was that Saige was involved.

The moment we were in the elevator heading to the top floor, I pushed her against the back wall. “You should head to the hotel room. I’ll handle it from here.”

“And you know damn good and well if I’m not seen on social media he’ll turn around. Relax. You’ll protect me. My hero.”

She’d tossed the word around as if it was actually true. “Just do as I say or else.”

“Yes, sir.” She saluted me, laughing as she did.

The terrace had been closed in preparation for the upcoming party on the next night, which would also provide cover and security for our guests. We didn’t want them wandering into a bloodbath.

Once outside, she led us toward the edge almost exactly where we’d been the night we’d met, pulling out her phone.

“Smile and cuddle,” she instructed while positioning the screen just so.

“That’s the easy part.” I pulled her close, enjoying the way she felt in my arms.

After she uploaded the photo, we both took a moment in silence.

However, I took her into my arms again, pulling her into a sweet dance. “We might as well enjoy the stars.”

She threw her arm over my shoulder, swaying her hips. “That sounds like a wonderful idea.”

We moved in time to unheard music, staring into each other’s eyes.

Several minutes passed.

“He’s in the elevator. Four men lingering outside.”

Neither one of us responded.

“You’re very handsome tonight,” she said in her soft voice.

“And you’re beautiful.”

On purpose, she batted her eyelashes. “I’m curious. Do you love me?”

“What?” Love hadn’t popped into the conversation as of yet.

“A simple question needing a simple answer.”

I spun her around, even dipping her. While in a deep arc, I lowered my head. “Yes. How about that?”

Her entire face lit up. “You better.”

As I yanked her back into position, our lips were just a breath apart, both ceasing to move. “You’re a very special woman.”

“And you’re a very special man. Never forget all that your mother taught you.”

“So you think I’m also a decent man.”

“I do.” She cocked her pretty little head in a challenge.

“Viper got off on the wrong floor,” Jason snarled.

“Don’t worry,” I said, “he’s on the move. He’s ensuring he’s all alone.”

“Leave the stairwell alone,” Kazimir instructed.