Page 75 of Range
“I’ve been looking forward to this evening,” I stated, honestly.
I had been.
I always looked forward to spending time with Kason, because it usually ended on a high note. It wasn’t until lately that I had begun to feel a sense of obligation during our visits. As if I was analyzing, observing more closely, taking more notes, and comparing him to a man with cuffed wrists and ankles.
Shame.
“Have you now?”
I nodded, arms wrapped around the handsome man in front of me. He stepped backward, deepening our presence in the beautiful suite. The dive into Kason’s finances left breadcrumbs that hinted at a small investment in the property. It was one of the few he’d shelled out money for. All were incredibly smart investments.
“Um hmmm.”
Candles flickered in my peripheral vision. A golden glow coated the walls. Blue lights led us toward the balcony where a private pool awaited us.
“I didn’t bring swimwear.”
“That won’t be necessary.”
I placed my hands against the railing. The late evening breeze caressed my skin. Clarke’s skyline reminded me of the city’s beauty. It was breathtaking.
Chlorine-filtered water bubbled in the background. Serenity surrounded me. My chest rose and fell with each breath I took. Contentment was near, yet so far away. I was in the in-between, but absent of complaint.
This is fine. Right here. Right now.
My top slidfrom my body with ease. My jeans followed. Every piece of jewelry and garment rested on the soft cushion of the poolside sofa as I tiptoed across the concrete. I lowered my right foot into the water. Warmth coddled me.
I inhaled, pulling in a large body of oxygen. My lower half was submerged by the time I exhaled. I didn’t stop in my quest to find comfort. My long limbs made it impossible to deepen my frame in the warm water. As an alternative, I lowered my body onto the bench that started at one end and trailed the outline of the pool.
“Mm.”
“Champagne?”
Kason’s disappearance proved to be beneficial. Not only because I appreciated my solitude as much as I despised it, but because he didn’t return empty-handed.
“Yes.”
Pop.
Fizzzzzz.
Clink.
The dynamic trio were music to my ears. Seconds after their debut, Kason stepped into the dimly lit pool.
“I had the staff increase the temperature. Please let me know if it’s too warm.”
“It’s perfect,” I responded, taking the champagne flute he’d extended in my direction.
“Aside from you,” he paused, kissing my lips. “I didn’t think that was possible.”
My smile started at the center of my face and crept up the sides. Genuinely appeased by his gentleness, I leaned into him, pressing my breasts against his skin. My nipples hardened on contact. It was becoming increasingly clear why Kason hadn’t expected swimwear.
“Is that right?”
“That’s right, baby.”
As the champagne glass touched my lips, Kason lowered his. He took my right nipple into his mouth, forcing me to lower the flute.
