I nodded curtly and climbed into the driver's seat. I fired up the engine and glanced at her, waiting for the familiar click of her seatbelt. As soon as I heard it, my fingers found the remote in my pocket, and with a sly smile, I pressed the button.
“Oh, shit!” she exclaimed, her body jerking slightly. “Damn you, Nico!”
I bit my lip to suppress a laugh, feeling my body’s immediate response to her reaction. I shifted in my seat, trying to regain my focus on the road. “You alright over there, baby?” I teased, glancing at her briefly.
“You asshole!” she hissed.
I chuckled, resisting the urge to take things further. I wanted to play with her a little longer, though, so I kept the anticipation building by pressing the button again.
“Oh, my God,” Gigi moaned, gripping the car door like it would give her relief.
I switched off the remote.
“I hate you,” she whispered, a mix of frustration and desire dancing in her voice.
“Making you come isn’t the purpose.”
She shot me a look that saidI'm going to kill you in your sleep. “Really? Then what the hell is the point of this?”
I smirked, leaning back in my seat and enjoying our little game. If only she knew what I had planned for her.
The rest of the drive to the restaurant was met with silence. The only sounds came from the bustling city of Chicago. I stole glances at my angel, but she remained absorbed in the world outside the window.
Then, in a fleeting moment, our eyes met through the reflection in the glass. Time slowed, and the city noises faded into a distant echo. I felt the brief connection in my bones.
As we pulled up to the entrance of the restaurant, I parked the car.
“Wow,” Gigi murmured. “This place is beautiful.”
And all was forgotten.
The restaurant featured private dining options and two penthouses. Usually, a building contained only one penthouse, but this hotel was spacious enough to provide two, with multiple private rooms for visitors. I had booked one of the penthousesfor the night, hoping to have a moment alone with her without interruptions.
I stepped out of the car and approached Gigi’s side. I extended my hand toward her, and warmth spread across my chest at the softness of her skin against mine.
A valet worker smiled and greeted me. “Mr. Moretti, welcome.”
I handed him my keys and placed my hand on Gigi’s lower back, a rush of electricity coursing through me. It was a familiar spark I always felt when we were together.
The owner, Mr. Fiori, was waiting at the door, his expression welcoming. “Ah, Mr. Moretti! It’s a pleasure to have you with us tonight,” he said, extending his hand.
“Thank you, Mr. Fiori. This is Gigi,” I said, gesturing toward her. “Gigi, this is Mr. Fiori, the owner.”
“Nice to meet you,” Gigi replied.
Mr. Fiori took her hand and pressed a soft kiss to it, the movement stirring a primal possessiveness within me. It was stupid, considering the man was old enough to be my grandfather, but the thought of another man’s lips or hands on my girl drove me batshit crazy. I clenched my jaw, trying to rein in my jealousy.
“Please, come this way,” he said as he led us through the restaurant.
The interior exuded modern elegance, with warm brown and maroon tones. The dim lighting created a romantic ambiance, perfect for intimate conversations.
As we stepped into the private dining room, the soft lighting, elegant decor, and sense of seclusion made it feel like we were in our own little world. There were only a few guests scattered around the six tables, but I had reserved the chef’s booth that offered just the right amount of privacy.
I watched as Gigi slid into the booth, her back gently resting against the plush cushion. I took my seat across from her.
“Take your time ordering and enjoy your evening,” Mr. Fiore said.
“Thank you,” I replied, my gaze shifting back to Gigi. She was looking at me with an intensity that made my heart race. The woman had the power to weaken me.
