“Don’t,” I breathe, still in a state of euphoria. I slide my leg from his shoulder, the position starting to become uncomfortable.
“It will likely bruise.”
“Then I’ll wear it proudly.”
His eyes blaze and he stands quickly, letting my dress fall as he reaches around the back of my head and pushes me up against the wall. As he kisses me, I taste myself and a night full of passion on his lips. He pins his hips to me, gently rubbing his erection against me.
Suddenly all I want is to leave.
Voices drawing closer force us to break apart, my heart rate sparking even more than it already is, realizing we’re moments from being caught.
We could have been caught while his face was between my legs, too.
We’re both breathy as we listen, waiting for the footfall to either get closer or retreat.
When the corridor grows silent again, Sly places a quick kiss against my cheek.
“Come,” he says. “Let’s say our goodbyes and you can meet me in front of my apartment.”
He helps smooth my dress, and as we’re looking down I realize my panties are still around my feet.
“Leave them,” he growls.
Looking into his smoldering eyes, I suppress a smile. “I might be a little longer than we’d both like. I need tohave my driver take me home, then I’ll need to leave again.”
“Whatever it takes, piccola ladra. Just make sure to stay in that gown. I’ll be the one taking it off you tonight. Now go, we’ve been gone too long.”
Stepping out of the delicate fabric of my panties, I take a few steps before glancing back to see Sly reach down and pick them up.
“You know, that’s the second pair you’ve stolen. Are you sureyou’renot the thief?”
He chuckles, opening his coat and slipping them into the inside pocket. “I assure you, what you have stolen from me is far more valuable than the two scraps of lace I have stolen from you.”
The underlying meaning of his words makes me grin. “What are you doing with them?”
“Probably not what you’re thinking. What do you take me for?”
Laughing, I shake my head. “A man, Sly. I take you for aman.”
Then I walk away, heading back in the direction of the ballroom. When I make it to the bend, I look back just in time to see Sly disappear in the opposite direction and I wonder if he’s seeking out another exit or if I’ll be able to sneak more glances at him before we go.
Chapter 24
Sly
Imake it back into the ballroom several minutes before Vincenza does, thanks to my knowledge of this building. Cutting through the parlor, I walk back into the crowd with purpose, crossing to where Enzo and Sullivan have made themselves comfortable at the open bar.
“Where’ve you been?” Sully asks, gesturing to the bartender for service. “We thought you may have gotten lost.”
Enzo watches me with scrutiny from over his crystal lowball, holding it at his lips but not drinking.
The lie slips from my tongue with ease. “I ran into an associate of Papà’s out in the foyer.”
The bartender approaches, and Sully orders himself and me another bourbon.
“Enzo and I were discussing going to Metamorphosis tonight. This party’s a little dull,” Sully says, turning his body to look back into the sea of people.The majority have retreated to the dance floor, while others are engaged in conversation within small groups around the room and at their tables.
“It’s a benefit gala,” Enzo retorts dryly.
