Page 31 of Jingle Spell Rock
“No, you’ve seen my world.I want to see yours,” I’d said.And now I was glad I’d made that choice.
Our new home,my panther purred.She stretched her paws, anticipating the sweet discovery of hidden secrets.
Home,I echoed.With Darius, I finally felt like I’d found my other half, where I belonged, where I could thrive.
“You know, I have another opportunity we might want to explore,” I said, my voice lilting higher.
“Oh?What are you up to, kitten?”His eyes twinkled with mischief.
“You see, Marlene and I got to talking.”
His brows shot upward.“Cedric’s wife?”
“Yes.And we’ve been in contact since they left the ship.She loved our performance on Christmas Eve, and after we had a drink or two, I revealed the way we’d met.The whole fake relationship you’d concocted.She laughed, thought it was hysterical the things men do to pursue what they want.”
He grumbled.“Maybe it was a bit foolish.”Then grinned and took me into his arms.“But look what it led to?”
“Indeed,” I agreed with a warm smile.“Anyway, let’s just say that thanks to yours truly”—I pointed to myself—”that proposal is back on the table.I told Marlene I’d reconnect with her once we moved to the island.”
He beamed down at me with pride.“You’re full of wonderful surprises.”
I raised an index finger.“But only if Marlene and I are involved.We have some great ideas.”
Darius chuckled.“A brilliant negotiator, I see.”
“I’ve learned from the best.”I flashed him a half-smile.
“Of course, my brilliant, beautiful mate.Anything you want.”He lifted me off the ground and spun us.When he put me back on my feet, he said, “Come on, there’s so much more to see.”
“Yes, my panther is eager to explore.”
His eyes twinkled.“And my dragon is eager to show you the view of the island from above.”He bent down and kissed me.
Our lips lingered as the golden sun brushed our skin.Waves kissed the shore and birds sang in the distance.When we broke apart, I gasped for breath.
“Oh yes, show me everything you’ve got, dragon,” I said in a sassy tone and wedged my hand onto my hip.
“How about we start with a tour of the house?”His amber eyes darkened with hunger.“In particular, our bedroom.”
He scooped me into his arms and I squealed and laughed.As he carried me up the beach, I leaned into his warm, solid chest, smiling at what was to come.
We were off to a brilliant start.
