Page 35 of Riptide

“About tonight.” Seth carefully slid the bronze mask over his head.

The majestic warrior’s face, topped with black feathers, stared at her, stirring mixed emotions of both fear and desire. She imagined Seth as a great fighter, a protector, a lover…her lover.

“Club Altura?” She averted her gaze to her mask, her cheeks heated. Evan hadn’t elaborated about his own experiences, but she suspected he participated in more activities besides jumping out of planes.

“I’m not sure how it will be. I just want to be clear that if anything makes you uncomfortable, we can leave.” Seth sat next to Kaimana and reached for her hand.

“No, I’m good. I can handle it,” Kaimana said with feigned confidence.

“You just say the word if you’re not feeling it, tonight.” Seth removed the mask and shook his curly blond locks, running his fingers through them.

“What are we wearing?” she said, changing the subject.

“I ordered you some clothes. Something to match our mask.”

“Maybe I should go get ready.”

“Maybe I’ll join you.” Seth reached for her and brushed his thumb over her inner wrist.

Kaimana’s body lit on fire with his feathery touch. She looked up to him, his sultry grin stirring desire within her belly. “Last night…”

“Last night was amazing,” he told her, his eyes locked on hers.

“Seth, I—” She struggled to articulate her thoughts.

“And I think it’s something we should explore. Tonight, don’t go too far from me.”

Kaimana sighed as he brought her wrist to his lips. “Seth…”

“You belong to me. You’re mine,” he promised.

She released an audible breath, her body on fire. As he withdrew his hand and stepped away, her body yearned for his touch. Watching Seth turn with a smile, leaving her wanting him, she considered he’d do more than test her limits.

* * *

Kaimana stood in front of the mirror and smoothed her hands over her black silk dress. With a plunging neckline and low back, it fit her perfectly, hugging every curve of her body.

It had been years since she’d worn a gown. Between working and going to school, she rarely dressed up anymore. In another time and place, she imagined a night with Seth, dressed to the nines, would be spectacular.

“You’re stunning.” Kaimana’s body went on alert at the very sound of Seth’s voice.

She swallowed and turned to face him. His hair had been pulled tight in a short ponytail. Wearing a fitted black and gold beaded tuxedo and a clean-shaven face, the surfer had transformed into a sophisticated gentleman.

“You, um,” she grinned. Look sexy as fuck. “You look great.”.

Seth eyes painted over her. It was as if he’d made love to her without ever touching her. He extended his hand, and she placed her fingers in his.

“You sure you want to do this?” He cocked his head.

“One hundred percent,” she replied without hesitation.

“Remember.” Seth’s eyes darkened as he spoke to her in low and sexy voice. “Tonight you belong to me, Kaimana. All of you.”

The dominant tone of his statement embraced her as she stared back at him with defiant eyes.

“This isn’t the boat,” he warned.

Her body flushed as he stepped closer. Her fingers pressed to his chest, her gaze locked on his.