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She cocked her head. “So how come you call me by my name sometimes and Ms. Moretti at others?”
“I don’t know. Guess it’s the business side of me. Why, do you not like it?”
“It’s just kind of formal. I don’t know how to take it when you call me Ms. Moretti. It’s like you’re mad at me or something.”
“No, it doesn’t mean that.” I liked calling her by her last name. I found it kind of sexy. But I didn’t want to sound creepy, so I kept it to myself.
“You want to come in for some coffee?” she asked, looking back at the house.
“Thanks, but actually, I’m going to have to take a raincheck.”
“Oh. Okay.” I could hear the disappointment in her voice. Encouraging.
“I’d like to, but I have a lot to take care of today.” I smiled, hoping she wouldn’t take my decline personally. I really had a ton of stuff to do, and I was already behind on my work. But I just had to see her this morning.
“It’s okay. I get it.”
“I’ll see you later?” My statement was more of a question, and I hoped she’d accept.
“Okay.”
I walked to her, taking her hands in mine. “Thanks for joining me.”
“No problem.”
“I’m glad you came.”
“Me too.”
I leaned into her. So close, I could smell a mix of sweat and lavender. Her breath hitched. I knew she was willing as I ran my hands up her sides and up to her neck, where I could feel her pulse under my thumb at the base of her throat. It was wild, fluttering erratically. I looked into her eyes and brought my lips to each cheek, the way she and her grandmother did.
I wanted more; I really did. I wanted so badly to grab her in my arms, pull her into me, and cover that sweet mouth. I knew I’d regret not taking the chance right then and there. But this wasn’t the time . . . or the place.
Siena
Iwas feeling confident asI sashayed downstairs. I hadn’t seen or heard from Michael since our run yesterday morning. He clearly got too busy with work, hadn’t come by like I thought he would. I was hyperaware of the clashing emotions coursing through me. Exhilaration. Suspicion. Anticipation. Anxiety. I couldn’t deny I was excited to see him, but I was not looking forward to another fight about the hotel. And something told me a fight was inevitable. I’d have to remain calm, keep a neutral demeanor. I just didn’t know if I had it in me when my grandparents’ livelihood might be at stake.
My hair was pulled back into a low ponytail, draped over my bare shoulder. I wore silver hoops in my ears, a dusting of brown eyeshadow, mascara, rosy blush, and pink lips. And a matching set of red lace lingerie.
Michael was bringing the plans for the hotel. I was bringing my A-game.
Grams had fresh coffee brewing and was working a crossword puzzle. “Seven letter word for a scoundrel,” she mumbled.
“Michael,” I said as I looked out the window.
“Siena!” The sheer pitch made me cringe.
“No, Grams.” I stuck my finger in my ear, wiggling it to quiet the ringing, “Michael ishere.” I walked to the door, shaking my head. “Although, who knows. It might turn out to be quite apropos,” I added as Michael followed me in.
“You need to dial your feistiness back a few notches.” Grams’s laughter warmed the room as she rose to greet him. She kissed each side of his face, her hands framing his chiseled jawline. “So nice to see you, Michael. Can I get you some coffee?”
“Yes. Thank you.” He set his plans and bag against the wall. “Why didn’t you greet me like she did?” he whispered as he passed me.
The hairs on my neck rose in excitement, my arms broke out in goosebumps, and I had to clear my throat to get my words back.Damn it.Why did he have this kind of effect on me? Not even two minutes in his presence, and I was a pile of mush.
As I moved to get a coffee for myself, I felt his eyes on me. A heat rose from my toes and spread through my body. I knew I wasn’t coming down with something. This heat wasn’t a fever of sickness—it was a fever of lust. And my loins were on fire.
Grams slid his coffee to me.One, two, three, four, five. I felt myself counting through deep breaths.Act natural!I avoided eye contact with Michael as I took a seat. I stirred my coffee, not looking up, hoping Grams would hurry and get her butt back in her chair.My god, woman, what are you doing over there?I smiled meekly, stealing a peek at Michael before turning away to see what the hell was taking her so damn long.
