Chapter Sixteen

Annabelle

The next day my legs are sore from the run, but otherwise I feel great. I crashed hard last night and slept well.

I’m done packing. Somehow I managed to get everything into one large suitcase. Elliot’s only taking one, and I didn’t want to be the stereotypical over-packing woman.

Since we’re going to the tropics, I put on a sleeveless pink orange wrap dress and wedge sandals, keeping my makeup light and simple, and go downstairs to join everyone for brunch.

A spread of bagels, cream cheese and lox sits in the center of the table. Thinly sliced red onions and tomatoes and capers garnish the platter. A pitcher of freshly squeezed orange juice and three bottles of cold water take the spot next to the food. There’s a cup of coffee in front of Elliot.

Nonny’s in pink and yellow pajamas, busily texting, her hair a messy bun. The sight brings a smile to my lips. She must be feeling more secure and comfortable now to dress like that.

Elliot is sitting to her left, and his gaze darts in her direction from time to time, checking out whatever’s on the screen. A white button-down shirt drapes loosely over his lean frame, and the light linen pants are pristine, not a wrinkle in the cool fabric. He’s also wearing a blazer, which makes me tilt my head. It isn’t like him to wear one, especially when we’re going to someplace hot.

His face is set in a protective mask as he leans a little closer. It reminds me of the way he held me last night, as though I’m precious and worthy of his affection. I soak in the scene, trying to etch it into my memory forever, as my chest aches. Even though I know it’s going to end, I want this and more.

I want Elliot all to myself. Not just him, but his heart too.

Such an impossible dream. It isn’t that he’s incapable of affection. I’ve seen how he is with his siblings and with Nonny. But I don’t know if he can love me the way I want.

I’m in love with the man. I might’ve been able to resist him if he were just handsome and sexy, but he’s brilliant, kind, generous and surprisingly thoughtful. He touches me in ways that make me long for fairy tales and happy endings.

And that cuts me to the core because I won’t live a fairy tale with him. My life is a story that most likely won’t have a happy ending. I’m doing everything in my power so it doesn’t end up a complete train wreck.

I grab a coffee, sit at the table and help myself to the stuff on the platter.

“Good morning,” Elliot says.

“Morning.” I clear my throat and take a healthy swallow of the coffee. “When is the car coming to pick us up?”

“Soon. You have time for breakfast though.”

“Good. I’m hungry.” I bite into the bagel layered with cream cheese and lox. It is surprisingly good, the salmon exceptionally fresh and flavorful.

Elliot leans toward Nonny again to spy on her text, with the mug at his lips…as though that will disguise the fact that he is rather shamelessly snooping.

She places her half-eaten bagel on her plate. “Elliot, please,” she says, her voice annoyed.

“I’m making sure you aren’t texting some jerk.”

“He’s just a boy in my algebra class.”

“There is no such thing as just a boy.”

“You know this because?”

“All men are animals,” Elliot says good naturedly, but there is an edge to his tone that promises anyone hurting Nonny is going to answer to him.

“He’s not even that smart. He wants me to help him with his history homework.” Nonny huffs.

“I thought you said algebra class.”

“We also have history together.”

His brow knots. “And how many other classes?”

The doorbell rings, cutting Elliot’s inquisition short. I go open it and see Elizabeth on the other side.

“Hi!” She gives me a tight hug, then marches in, dragging a suitcase behind her. She’s in a bright magenta jersey dress and nude pumps. A purse the precise shade as her dress hangs from her slim wrist.

“I can’t believe Ryder let you carry it.” Elliot gets up and wraps her in his arms for a warm embrace. “He didn’t send any muscle with you?”

“Oh, stop. Ryder’s staff put it in the car for me. And I’m not going to break from carrying my own suitcase.” She stops and returns a hug from Nonny. “So. You heard about the plan, huh?”

“Yup.” Nonny beams, annoyance with Elliot’s overprotectiveness apparently forgotten.

“You and I are going to have a great time together. Ryder invited us for dinner and a movie Friday.” She turns to me. “I hope that’s okay?”

Wow. That’s very kind of him, and I suspect it also has something to do with Elizabeth, since he has no reason to extend the invitation. Based on what I know, I’m beginning to suspect the men in her family adore her.

When the silence stretches for more than half a second, Nonny falls forward on the table. “Ohmigod SAY YES, PLEASE! I’ll do anything!”

I blink at my sister’s dramatic display and laugh.

“If you let me see who’s texting you,” Elliot interjects. “I’m interested in boys only.”

“You’re kidding,” Nonny whines.

“I don’t think he’s being entirely unreasonable,” I say. “It’s important to make sure you don’t associate with the wrong kind of guys.” I know how harrowing it can be when a guy decides to do whatever he wants without any regard for the girl involved.

Nonny rolls her eyes. “The worst that’s going to happen is we go out and break up.”

No, that’s not the worst. There are many more things, the kind of stuff you have nightmares about and make you break down in front of other people who just don’t get it. But I don’t want to rob Nonny of her innocence or youthful zest for life. I want to protect her without being completely smothering. “Let’s compromise and say that if you’re going to be serious about a guy, let us meet him first.”

Another eye-roll. “Okay, fine.”

I turn to Elizabeth. “Thank you for the offer, and also for staying here to keep an eye on my sister.”

“No problem. Have fun. St. Cecilia is beautiful. I was there for the resort opening, and it was fabulous.”

“You know me. Always the best for my bride.” Elliot places a kiss on my forehead.

My cheeks flush. He’s so good at that—being naturally affectionate and lovable. It’s disconcerting to my emotional balance. He’s easier to handle when he’s not so charming.

He checks his buzzing phone. “Our ride’s here.”

A few moments later, a man in a crisp black suit walks in. His large hands are encased in snowy white gloves. Elliot points to the bedroom, and the man goes up and grabs our suitcases.

“Time to go,” Elliot says. He turns to Elizabeth and Nonny. “Be good. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

“Ha! That gives us totally free rein.” Elizabeth waves. “Have fun, you two!”

“Don’t forget to send postcards!” Nonny beams.

Elliot puts a hand at my elbow. The contact feels sweet and possessive. I lean slightly closer toward him as we step into the waiting elevator.

“Thank you,” I murmur.

“For what?”

“Everything. You took care of every detail.” So nice not to have to be the one in charge.

“As your husband, it’s my pleasure to take care of you.”

My heart thuds. When he speaks like this, I feel like I’m truly married. “Still…”

He places a finger over my lips. The contact sends shivers down my back.

“You’re welcome,” he says.

Two heartbeats pass, and he shifts closer, dipping his head as though he’s about to say something more. But then the elevator opens, and we’re off to a waiting white limo. A uniformed chauffeur opens the rear door.

“Rather extravagant.” I slide next to him on the leather bench that feels clover soft. The partition between us and the driver is already up, giving us privacy.

“It’s a honeymoon. It’s supposed to be extravagant.” Elliot waits until I’m settled down next to him. “Something to drink? Maybe water?”

“Please.”

He hands me a bottle of cold water. I take it gratefully, then note that we don’t have any champagne, which is what I would’ve expected.

He takes another water for himself. I’ve seen him drink scotch at this time of day before, and it is our honeymoon. “You don’t have to go without because of me,” I say.

“It isn’t going without if it’s by choice.” He takes a quick sip. “I want you to feel comfortable and happy on the trip.”

“Elliot…”

His fingers link with mine. “Let’s not think about the past. The only thing that matters is the present. It’s the only thing we can be sure of.”

“How about the future? You don’t think about that at all?” Like what’s going to happen in a year?

“Not particularly.” He kisses my knuckles, one bump at a time. His mouth is warm and wet as it moves over my delicate skin. “What’s the point? For all we know, I might get hit by a truck tomorrow.”

The horrible possibility, no matter how remote, chills my body. “Well, I’m sure you’ll survive. And if you don’t, I won’t either since I’m going to be with you.”

A lopsided grin tugs at a corner of his mouth. “Nope. You probably will survive it. You’re a tough woman, Belle, a lot stronger than you think.”

He turns my hand over and presses his lips to my pulse point at my wrist, then licks, the tip of his tongue flickering over the fluttering spot. My heart pounds, and it’s all I can do not to squirm as liquid heat pools between my legs. I never knew my wrist could be so sensitive.

His mouth travels along my arm, his fingers still linked with mine. His other hand wraps around the back of my neck. As anticipation builds, I part my lips, my breath quickening.

“Beautiful. So responsive all over.” His voice rasps hotly over me.

My cheeks heat. “It’s you. You’re making me responsive.”

He hums with satisfaction. His mouth is at the crook of my neck, his breath fanning over my sensitive skin. I moan, clutching his shoulder. “Kiss me,” I whisper. “Please.”

Elliot pulls me toward him, and I’m straddling his thighs when our mouths meet. The touch is feather-soft and tender, his lips impossibly soft as they brush over mine. He traces the shape of my mouth, every flick of his tongue teasing and coaxing. I lean into him and open up for more, something deeper and carnal.

When he licks my tongue, I capture his in my mouth and suck. A deep groan spills from his chest, and his hand fists around my hair. My breathing is ragged, and I dig my hands into his shoulders.

“Beautiful, slow down.” His lips press against my neck. “I’ll take care of you.” A lick. “I promise.”

He undoes the buttons and ties that keep my wrap-dress together.

Our gazes lock. His eyes are dark, impossibly dilated. Flush colors his cheeks and lips swollen from our kisses. Stark need etches his face, and I love it that he doesn’t hide his desire for me. It’s impossible to be shy before a man who wants me the way Elliot wants me.

My garment parts, revealing my lacy bra and bare belly. He caresses my ribcage. I reposition myself so I can feel his cock pressing against me.

A deft flick of his fingers and the front clasp of my bra comes undone. My breasts spill into his waiting hands, and I let out a groan as the touch sends sharp pleasure raking through my insides. My nipples bead until they become two tight points, begging for his attention.

His tongue darts out and licks his lips. He brushes the fleshy pads of his thumbs over my nipples. Fire burns in my belly, and my toes curl in my sandals.

“I wish I had half the artistic talent my grandfather had,” he murmurs, breathing over my nipple. It tightens further, the sensation almost painful now. “Then I’d be able to capture this moment.” His gaze tilts upward until it ensnares mine. “I’ve never been with a woman as honest in her desire as you.”

The air is too heavy, his words digging into my heart and finding something raw and vulnerable deep inside. I let out a shaky laugh. “With all the women you’ve been with, at least one of them had to be honest.”

“They just wanted to fuck a billionaire…or Ryder’s half-brother. You want to fuck me.” He licks the tip of my breast, stealing my breath.

“Elliot…”

He pulls my nipple into his mouth and sucks hard, trapping me between his tongue and the roof of his mouth.

Coherent thoughts are impossible now. I cry out softly and let myself feel, appreciating the pleasure he’s giving me.

He is so intent, focused on capturing even my smallest response. Hot bliss courses through me, and the tension in my gut tightens.

His hand slips underneath my skirt and fingers my clit through the wet fabric of my panties. “Fuck you’re hot.”

“Yes,” I whisper.

His breath on my fevered flesh feels cool, and I shiver. He takes my other nipple, and my eyes shut as my body rides wave after wave of pleasure.

Something cold and smooth slips into my swollen pussy. It feels nothing like his fingers, and I stiffen.

“Shhh,” he whispers. “It’s just a vibrator.” As though to prove his words, the item buzzes, sending a shockwave of ecstasy through me.

He takes my nipple back into his mouth, his hand at my clit, circling it and rubbing it. I moan and cry out as the tension coils tightly in my belly. The throbbing deep inside me grows stronger, and my chest heaves.

I’m so, so close. “Elliot, please…please…”

His teeth nip me as the vibration increases its intensity and his thumb moves with greater force. The sharp pain mixing with the blissful sensation pushes me over. I cry out as my entire body shakes with blinding rapture. Even the soles of my feet are hot and tingling.

When I open my eyes, the vibrator is inert, and I notice he is still hard. I want him inside me. I reach for him, and he shakes his head. “I didn’t bring a condom.”

I blink at him. “Why not?”

“Because I didn’t think we’d be having sex here in the limo.”

“No problem,” I say, with a glance at his pants. I kiss him.

He returns the kiss for too brief a moment, then pulls back. I clutch his shirt with a moan of protest.

He gives me a lick on my lips. “I hate to say it, but…we’re here.”

“What?” After a moment, I realize the limo’s stopped. I can sense the driver standing outside, waiting for our signal.

Elliot kisses my forehead. “The chauffeur will wait until we’re ready. He knows we’re newlyweds. But our pilot has a schedule to keep.”

“Okay.” I swallow. “I, uh, should probably get the vibrator out.”

“No. Keep it inside you.”

“Why?”

He gives me a wicked smile, his eyes bright. The toy suddenly starts humming again at a low, steady clip. I gasp at the pulsing sensation. It isn’t enough to make me pant or come, but it is just enough to heighten my awareness of the slick heat between my legs. Then the buzz stops.

“How long?” I ask breathlessly.

“Until we’re at the resort and ready to fuck our brains out,” he whispers into my ear. “Don’t worry, I won’t have it on the entire time. That wouldn’t be pleasant, but you’ll feel the vibrator sitting there, ready.”

My face is so hot, I fan myself. I move off his lap and rearrange my bra and dress. Thank god I didn’t put on much makeup this morning. I reapply lip gloss, while Elliot adjusts himself and runs his fingers through his hair.

Suddenly I can’t help it. I laugh.

“What’s funny?” he asks, an eyebrow arched.

“This. We’re like high school kids getting caught doing something naughty.”

“We may not be in high school, but we’re definitely naughty.”

“I’ll bet you were incorrigible. I, on the other hand, have never done anything like this.”

Elliot’s handsome face takes on an odd look.

“What?”

He shakes his head. “Nothing. Ready to join the Mile High Club?” He extends his hand.

Taking it, I nod. “Yes.”

* * *

Elliot

One good thing about flying private is that we can do whatever the hell we want. So as soon as the plane takes off, I drag my wife to the full bedroom in the back and we have a little soixante-neuf. Nothing compares to being inside her mouth while she comes against my face. A lot of women think there’s some super technique to a blow job, but really there isn’t. It’s all about how much she wants her man, and the noises she makes in the back of her throat and the way her eager mouth moves…

My dick’s hard again. I shift, adjusting myself in my seat.

My wife’s happiness with the private jet is palpable. Now that I’m no longer making her come over and over, she checks every room and feature, her emerald eyes bright and wide. It is fun to spoil a woman who takes such joy in everything.

To me everything inside the jet is sort of…there. To her, it’s all new and interesting.

I try to look at it through her eyes. I suppose the soft leather seats are nice and comfortable. And the bed is nice too if you want to sleep or screw around. The giant screen is pretty cool if you feel like watching a movie. And the shower is convenient if you want to freshen up before landing.

It probably shows how spoiled I am that I can’t muster even half the enthusiasm my wife does. Even when I was younger and didn’t have my own jet, I always had access to lounges and showers and lie-flat seats. Dad may hate us, but he couldn’t tolerate even a whisper that he wasn’t providing for us, and providing in style. It was—and is—important for him to maintain the appearance of superb fatherhood.

Belle sits down next to me, secures her seatbelt. Her cheeks are still flushed and her eyes shine with the after-effects of erotic excitement. The vibrator is something I picked up while she met her best friend. The remote control in my pocket dictates the intensity. Right now it’s off. There’s no reason to torment her for the hours we’re going to be flying. Over-stimulation would be a huge turnoff.

Our cabin attendant is actually a butler in his late forties. Medium-height and carefully dressed in a crisp dark suit, Parker does everything a typical cabin attendant does and more. He doesn’t suggest any alcohol, as per my earlier instructions, but he offers us soft drinks and juices. Belle takes a glass of mango juice, and I take sparkling water.

It feels a bit weird to fly without any alcohol. Champagne is generally de rigueur, but this is just as much about Belle as me. I can’t stomach serving it, knowing what happened to her.

“Would you like me to prepare your pajamas?” the man asks. “I can have them warmed or cooled, depending on your preference.”

“That won’t be necessary for me,” I say, while my wife goggles at the man. I dip my head so I can whisper in her ear. “Do you want them?”

“No, thank you,” she says.

“Excellent, sir. Madam. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.” He makes a smart turn and leaves us alone.

She watches him go and shakes her head. “I don’t think I’m ever going to get used to him.”

“Why not?”

“Because… He’s a butler.” She leans close and whispers, “I thought butlers didn’t exist anymore.”

I chuckle. “Oh, they do. Dad has one, although he’s not that great. Geraldine’s family has one…which is why Dad hired his. Gotta keep up with the Joneses.”

She bares her teeth at the mention of my dad. It’s sweet how she is so ferocious on my behalf.

Still, there’s a feeling that warns me not to take everything here at face value. Belle has too many secrets, and until I know what they are, I can never be sure of her, no matter what my heart tells me.