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“That’s what happens when there’s a full moon,” he said softly. “You should see it in winter. It’s like another world, though it can be dangerous… Last year I got snowed in for a couple of weeks. Needless to say I’m now the proud owner of a snowplow.”
“It’s simply gorgeous,” she murmured, as they reached the window. “I bet it’s really dramatic during a storm.”
“Like you wouldn’t believe. That’s why the trees have been cut so far back. We always end up clearing away downed branches.”
“Do you see much wildlife?”
“All the time. Bears, deer, wolves… we often hear them howling.”
“Really? I hope they’re out tonight.”
“Time for bed,” he said, lowering his voice. “Take off your clothes and lie down. I’ll be back in a minute.”
She expected him to walk away, but he abruptly moved his arms around her, pulled her into his chest, and hugged her tightly. Closing her eyes and melting against him, she never wanted the moment to end, but his hand slid into her hair and tugged back her head.
She waited, breathless, for his lips.
They brushed against hers, then he suddenly pulled back.
“You’re as tempting as the dessert I’m going to bring you,” he said huskily. “I won’t be long. When I get back I expect to find you naked.”
She didn’t want him to leave, and letting out a frustrated groan as he marched away, she quickly slipped out of the socks and track suit. Pushing back the bedcovers, she discovered crisp, cool white sheets, and stretching out, she found the bed amazingly comfortable.
Three lamps burned in the room, one on each of the nightstands, and another over a man’s portrait above a marble fireplace. Holding a brandy snifter, wearing a sardonic smile and a twinkle in his eye, he bore a striking resemblance to Marco.
“My father,” Marco declared, entering the room carrying a bowl.
“I know,” Steph remarked. “He was such a handsome man. What’s that you’ve brought me?”
“Another of my grandmother’s specialties, tiramisu mousse,” he replied, placing it on the nightstand, then reaching into his pocket he pulled out a blindfold.
“Sit up and close your eyes, little girl. It’s time for dessert, then you’re going to sleep.”
* * *
Marco loved to tease.
Being unpredictable was just as delicious.
Securing the mask at the back of Steph’s head, he took his time undressing, watching her as she waited. Her apprehension was almost palpable. First she toyed with the sheets, crossed and uncrossed her arms, then brought her knees to her chest and down again.
“Are you nervous in that blindfold?” he asked, finally sitting on the side of the bed.
“Not nervous exactly,” she softly replied.
“You find it exciting, though. Am I right?”
“Yes, it’s definitely exciting,” she replied, letting out a breath. “Can I ask you something?”
“You can ask anything you want, but I can’t guarantee an answer.”
“May I call you Marco instead of Mr. Moretti or Sir?”
“You may, except when I’m disciplining you, or I have you in bondage, at the club, situations like that.”
“So… right now?”
“You’re wearing a blindfold. What do you think?”
