Page 220 of Titus

“That’s not even a question,” I said. “Where?”

“The fish shack,” he chuckled, and the most adorable, handsome expression crossed his face.

“Really?” I chuckled. “Of all the places you can go to eat after two weeks of government gruel?”

“It was our first date,” he said, bringing the back of my hand to his lips. “And who knew that two weeks in federal detention would make one crave certain foods?”

“Let me grab my things,” I said, turning back to my desk.

When I gathered my stuff, I turned back, and I was suddenly in his arms again.

I glanced up, and he gently brushed a loose strand of hair from my face.

“I have no desire to do anything but make up for not having you in my arms over the past two weeks,” he said. “The company can wait.”

“That sounds amazing.”

“You’re amazing, preciosa,” he said, his eyes studying mine. “Do you mind if I steal you away to my home in the Palisades for a couple of days?”

“Is that even a question?” I said, running my fingers along his freshly shaven jawline.

“How many times did I imagine you returning my feelings like this when you couldn’t stand being in my presence?” he said. “I am truly fortunate to have you in my life, Catalina.”

And then his lips were on mine, and judging from the power of this delicious kiss, I wondered if we’d even make it out of my office, much less his home in Pacific Palisades.

The helicopter touched down on the private landing pad overlooking the Pacific just as the sun began to sink beneath the horizon.

Having been here before, I shouldn’t have been silenced by the view, but this trip to his home felt completely different. Maybe because two weeks ago I wasn’t sure when I’d see him again.

From the moment we stepped off the helicopter, Titus hadn’t let go of my hand, his grip firm and strong. He had been quieter than usual, even when we stopped by my house after dinner to grab a suitcase before we flew here.

The ocean breeze swept across the cliffs as we headed toward the house. The familiar glass-and-stone structure glowed beneath carefully placed landscape lighting.

Staff members greeted him immediately when we entered. “Welcome home, Mr. Hawk.”

Titus nodded. “Thank you.”

The house manager smiled warmly at me. “Ms. Veléz,” he nodded. “Welcome back.”

“Thank you,” I said, smiling back as Titus continued walking.

He didn’t stop or pause once, moving through the massive home with purpose.

His hand stayed firmly intertwined with mine as he headed straight toward the floating staircase.

I glanced up at him. “Where are we going?”

His gaze shifted toward me briefly. “Upstairs.”

My stomach immediately fluttered with anticipation. Titus must have seen my expression change because he smiled in response.

“You’re nervous…”

“I am not.”

His smile widened. “You most definitely are.”

“Well, you’ve been quiet as hell, and now you seem to be leading me to your room?”