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I grabbed the two key cards, happy to be back on the property. The couture hotel had been recently renovated, the location absolutely gorgeous and the view spectacular. It was one of the smaller wineries we owned, the property backing up to a series of rolling hills.
As Kendrick sauntered toward me, his nostrils flared. “Down, big boy,” I told him.
“You know him.”
“As I mentioned, this is a location my father has owned for years, Jose a long-term employee. If you dare try and lay a finger on that man, I will kill you myself.”
He laughed and pressed his hand against the small of my back as he’d done before.
The valet already had our bags, rolling them toward the wing I’d chosen. There were several different areas, including rooms for families. I’d selected the most private location complete with an outdoor terrace surrounded by a stone wall, dozens of plants and flowers, and a hot tub. I’d thought I was going to be alone, selecting a king-size bed.
The stay would be interesting to say the least.
We both remained quiet while the man that I’d never seen before pushing the cart went on and on as if we were tourists visiting the dozens of wineries in the valley. I could sense Kendrick’s increasing amusement, but he said nothing as we were led to our room. After unlocking the door for us, he allowed us inside first before rolling the cart in. Then he proceeded to take long strides toward a set of French doors, opening them to allow fresh air in.
I found it enjoyable as I used to when I thought for certain I’d be the one taking over as being the person in charge of our wineries and hotels. He’d been well trained, likely due to Jose and his old school methods. The young man made certain everything was as it should be in every room, including the bathroom. Then he moved toward the basket that had been placed on the granite counter of the bar area, giving a single nod.
Once the bags were in place, he approached the door without a second of hesitation.
Kendrick cut him off, but the bellman shook his head. “Not for the daughter of the owner. That is unacceptable.”
“And what I find unacceptable is for a man of your caliber to go a day unrewarded.” Kendrick shoved the money in the man’s pocket.
“Thank you, sir.”
I shook my head and moved further into the room, kicking off my shoes and brushing my fingers across several of the surfaces. I was surprised he remained quiet, but I sensed his eyes watching me as I checked out the marvelous room.
The living room was complete with a small stone fireplace for quiet evenings after enjoying a visit to a winery or two. There was a bar that I knew was fully stocked with the most expensive wines and liquors. I rolled my hand across the smooth granite top, settling in front of the basket of goodies. As I started to pull a few items out, he finally approached, watching me intently.
“We have plenty of treats for later.”
“The only treat I need is standing in front of me.”
Laughing, I backed away, giving him a onceover as he’d done to me. “Why don’t you make yourself useful and open a bottle of the wine. We have some time before we need to go.” The look on his face made me laugh. I spun around, floating toward the bathroom. Millions of dollars had been spent on the renovation, the tub big enough for six, the shower for eight or more. I couldn’t help myself and counted the number of showerheads. Ten. Who needed ten showerheads?
There were plush towels and shampoo for the rich and famous in baskets just begging to be stolen.
I moved back into the bedroom, eyeing the king-size canopy bed. There was even gauzy material draped over the trestles in a lovely shade of violet. I’d been the one to recommend the romantic aspect, something my father had laughed at. It would appear he’d used several of my suggestions. Hmmm…
The room was gorgeous, another set of French doors leading to the stone patio. I threw them open, the scent of flowers immediately assaulting my senses. When I walked outside, I couldn’t have been more impressed. The furniture was iron and steel, but the cushions were plush. There was a small but adequate pool and an attached hot tub. The suite was fit for a queen.
At least a tarnished princess and her… I wasn’t certain what to call Kendrick at this point. I held up my hand in the sunlight, allowing the sparkling jewel to create prisms of color. It was too bad the ring was as fake as the way we felt about each other.
Or was it?
I honestly wasn’t certain any longer.
I felt his presence behind me and didn’t bother turning around. He remained hovering near, silent as a church mouse. That was okay. The hard thudding of my heart echoed in my ears. He finally eased his hand around to my throat, lifting my chin with his fingers while rubbing his thumb back and forth across the choker.
“When we return tonight, I want you in your pearls and nothing else. Is that clear?” His voice was huskier than before, the tone sliding over me like a soft velvet blanket.
“Yes, sir.”
He squeezed my neck with enough pressure a single moan slipped past my lips. “I do love to hear you call me sir. I think I’ll make that a requirement.” He took his time, running the fingers of his other hand down the length of my bare arm, sending an array of tingles and goosebumps into my system. Then he lowered his head, pressing his lips against my shoulder blade, brushing them back and forth aimlessly.
His tender touch set me on fire. Shuddering, I realized my body was swaying from desire, the longing for the man too intensified to fully understand. He had a way of creating a deep-seated need that refused to go away.
“Having you as my possession is delicious,” he whispered then dragged his tongue across my shoulder blade. When he leaned back, there was another strange look of sadness in his eyes.
