Page 95 of Wicked Dares
“That’s fine. You’re about to see it for real.”
Levi heads back to the helm and adjusts something so the yacht slows as it glides closer to the cove. The water gradually becomes calmer.
This place is stunning. Sunlight dances across the surface in ripples while rocky cliffs curve around the little stretch of ocean.
The engine quiets, and the boat settles into a gentle rock against the water. “That’s us,” Levi says.
I look around, realizing there’s nobody else nearby. Nothing except open water, cliffs, and the two of us floating in the middle of it all.
“Do you always come out here by yourself?”
“I do. I’ll be back in a sec.” He winks and disappears below deck.
I stay near the railing, taking in the surroundings.
I have to admit this is better than what I had planned today. I was going to look at more office locations just in case I’m not successful with the building I really want.
Then there’s still the matter of Levi insisting that I stay with him.
I already know that I can fight him on it all I want; he’ll find a way to stop me from saying no.
So… maybe I could stay.
But just for a little while. It will save money I want to spend on setting up the business.
I’ll start looking tonight, though. Last time, it took forever to find a suitable apartment, and the one I got was the best I could do.
I can do better now, but I don’t want to spend too much. I also need to get my deposit back on the old apartment and this month’s rent. No way am I going to allow the landlord to keep it when I just paid. The building was never safe.
Levi reappears carrying a cooler bag over one shoulder along with a couple of wine bottles tucked beneath his arm.
“Wow.” I blink at him. “You came prepared.”
“Always. Follow me.”
I walk behind him, following him to the back deck of the yacht. There he drops the cooler onto the counter beside a sleek stainless-steel built-in grill.
He unpacks containers, drinks, and a large bowl of strawberries, which he slides toward me with a knife. “Cut those up for me.”
“Sure.” I lean against the counter and start slicing the strawberries.
Levi switches on the grill. A hiss fills the air before he places down slices of steaks.
The smell alone makes my stomach growl, and I realize I’m actually hungry.
When I’m done with the strawberries, he gets me to sit on one of the bar stools and watch him.
Levi Vale cooks with the same confidence he seems to do everything else in life. He works the grill effortlessly, flipping steaks and seasoning vegetables without ever once looking uncertain.
And there’s something ridiculously attractive about watching him like this.
Not just because he’s shirtless. I like that he just takes control.
Soon, the meat and vegetables are done and he serves me a plate.
“Try that.” He motions toward the food with his chin.
I take the first bite, and my eyes nearly roll back into my head. The steak is perfect—seared crust, juicy center, butter and garlic melting on my tongue then hitting every tastebud in my mouth.
