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I managed to meander away without him noticing, finding the bar on my own. Reggie could mingle all he wanted to. I’d enjoy another glass of cabernet and find a dark spot to hide in.
I laughed to myself as I approached the bar, enjoying the eye candy serving drinks. The tall, buff blond hunk of a man I wouldn’t mind spending time with.
“What would you like?” he asked, his deep baritone sending a little thrill right through me. Funny how that hadn’t happened with Reggie. Not once.
“Cabernet, the darker the better.” As I always did when I was in this situation, I rubbed my neck. I’d chosen not to wear my favorite necklace tonight. The reason why? Reggie hated it. He’d always thought the stunning ruby and diamond piece had been given to me by another lover. I’d laughed in his face. Then he’d tried to yank it from my neck, breaking the clasp.
That was the first time I’d wanted to break his nose and somehow, I didn’t think it would be the last. I should have learned my lesson that day instead of sticking around for more. My mother would tell me I was testing my boundaries. Perhaps that was the truth.
The sexy bartender grinned and turned away, selecting one of the many varieties of wine. Sighing, I took the time to survey the room. There was no one else of interest that I could see. Maybe I could fake getting sick. Just before I started to turn around, I noticed a lone figure standing across the room near the set of French doors.
My breath was suddenly caught in my throat.
That’s one incredible taste of sin.
Nothing could have prepared me for the first glimpse of him or the way my body responded immediately. Even from this distance, I could tell he was extremely tall, undeniably handsome. He had the kind of devilishly good looks that stopped everyone when he walked into a room.
He also had an aura of mystery and power, exuding danger. His suit was impeccable, the dark color and well-tailored cut highlighting a body he’d honed to perfection. I dragged my tongue across my lips, unable to take my eyes off him.
There was something about him that created a wave of trepidation, and it was obvious he was staring straight at me, a slight smirk appearing on his face. His features appeared angular, chiseled with a strong jaw, and he had thick blond hair. He lifted his drink in a slight salute, allowing me to catch a glimpse of ink curling down from his forearm, licking against the top of his hand. I had the irrational desire to jerk off his jacket and shirt, exposing not only his tattoos but the glorious, rugged body hiding underneath.
Lightheaded, I almost found myself walking toward him, until I was pulled out of the sweet fantasy.
“Here you go, miss.”
The sound of the bartender’s sultry voice kept me from doing anything stupid. Exhaling, I took a deep breath as I turned around, fanning my face with my hand. “Thank you.” After wrapping my fingers around the glass, I quickly shifted, hoping to find Mr. Sexy in the same place.
Disappointment rushed into my system. He’d disappeared.
“There you are,” Reggie cooed as he walked closer. “I’m glad you got a drink.”
I took a sip then a gulp, trying to catch my breath.
“Why don’t we take a walk? I need to talk to you about something.”
I’d been far too caught up in my filthy thoughts, catching only a part of what he’d said. “A walk?”
“Come on. I know how you dislike the crowds. Let’s go somewhere quiet.”
I scanned the room before we left, unable to catch sight of him. A stranger. I’d been attracted to a mysterious man, almost like in a romance novel. At least a girl could dream.
Talk? Was he kidding me? Reggie wasn’t smart enough to carry off an intelligent conversation. Although… Maybe this was the time to tell him we weren’t made for each other. Even if I had to call a taxi, it would be worth it.
“Sure. Why not?”
He took my hand, squeezing my fingers. I allowed the gesture, trying to find the right words to say to him.
Reggie, it’s been fun, but I need a real man.
Reggie, I think it’s time you dropped off the face of the earth.
Reggie, I should squash you like a bug.
I resisted grinning at the ugly thoughts. I’d never say something so rude unless pushed, but he had the capabilities of infuriating me quickly.
He led me up two flights of stairs and far removed from the party.
“Hold on. What it this?” I asked, jerking away.
