It was very late when Gisele fell asleep in Micah’s arms. She was tucked against him with her back against his chest, her breathing steady. Low light from outside shined through the window, bathing Gisele in a soft glow. Her long hair cascaded across the pillow and over one shoulder, giving her a sleeping-goddess appearance.
Her skin was still flushed from the night’s passion, her body relaxed against his. Micah kept one arm around her waist, hugging her close. He buried his face in her hair, high on the perfume of sex. Gisele was soft and warm next to him, and Micah was in no hurry for sleep.
Micah put his hand over Gisele’s slender forearm, feeling the softness of her skin. He thought of earlier when she’d been pressed against him, crying out in pleasure. He could see her face in the throes of climax, and the vision of her breasts gently bouncing as he fucked her.
The evening had gone even better than he’d hoped. Women hadn’t been a problem for Micah. He could have whom he wanted. Being a boxer, he was a sort of magnet for fighter groupies. Although there were advantages, and certain delights to be had, no experience had matched the evening he’d just spent.
Gisele stirred next to him, and Micah brushed a few strands of hair away from her cheek. He wondered if she knew how beautiful she was, as she seemed very humble when he told her. And he had told her more than once.
Micah intended to see her again. There were questions in his mind, mainly due to her family. Yet they’d managed to get away without the supervision of her bodyguards, a promising turn of events. Finally being alone had been worth waiting for.
That didn’t mean that any issues Gisele had would simply vanish. What Micah didn’t know was how much of an obstacle they would be. But he wasn’t naïve. Hanging around with the mob, whether a patriarch’s foster daughter or not, had its dangers.
Micah just wasn’t clear on how entrenched Gisele was. And he was concerned for her. He could handle himself, and had done so in the past. The Russian mob had their hand in fighting, for the money to be had. Micah knew how lucrative betting the odds on fights could be, especially in the underground circuit. It made sense the mob would cash in on an opportunity like that. Mayhem, even murder to get what they wanted didn’t make them bat an eye.
The thought of Gisele caught in their web was unsettling. But he’d only just met her, and could hardly start telling her what to do, especially a woman like her. Gisele was feisty and could hold her own. She’d done so with him, and most likely wouldn’t hesitate to hold the line when she needed to.
Still, Gisele was a woman alone, immersed in a culture of power and greed. It wasn’t a setup for happily-ever-after. But Micah wasn’t one to back off from a fight, and if he had to fight for Gisele, he would. No thug, even if a father or brother, was going to hurt Gisele. That wasn’t going to happen as long as he was around to prevent it.
There was a chance that he was making too much out of it. Maybe Gisele’s family had her best interests at heart, and wouldn’t let harm come to her any more than he would. He hoped that was the case, but his gut told him otherwise.
Gisele turned onto her back and lifted one arm over her head, resting it on the pillow. The sheet draped across her ribs, exposing one luscious breast, tempting him. She slept soundly, and Micah leaned over to kiss her cheek. “Sleep well, beautiful,” he whispered to her. I’m here to protect you.
*****
Micah woke up in the morning with light streaming through the window. He opened his eyes, then squinted and put his arm over his forehead. The dull headache he’d had after the fight was now throbbing pain. He felt like he’d been in a car accident, his body achy and stiff.
The day after a fight Micah was normally sore everywhere, so this morning was no exception. He lifted his arm and glanced at Gisele. She had the sheet up to her chin, the fluffy pillow stuffed under her cheek. He’d let her sleep.
Quietly, Micah slid out of bed and closed the curtains. Then he went to the bathroom to examine the damage. His eye had puffed up overnight; he’d need some ice for that. The bruises on his legs had darkened. His back and shoulders were stiff, but there was no time for a massage, even if there was a spa on premises.
Micah looked like hell, but he felt great. Winning the fight, followed by the night with Gisele, had spiked his morale. A few aches and bruises couldn’t get him down. He went out to find his clothes and fished in his pocket for a painkiller, then went to the kitchen to swig it down with water. That should help.
Then he slipped on his clothes and headed out for a jog. All he had to wear were his jeans and polo shirt, so they would have to do. The midmorning air was mild, as the heat of the day had not yet arrived. The sidewalks through the lush grounds made an acceptable jogging trail. He looped around a few times, staying on the walkways. Farther from the resort, there was only an empty expanse of desert, not an inviting place for a jog.
The workout loosened up some of the stiffness and brought life back to his achy body. The painkiller had dulled the headache. Feeling better, Micah headed back, but stopped at the gift shop on the way. Micah hadn’t planned for an overnight stay, although he should have, and neither of them had any fresh clothes.
He ducked into the shop and, with the clerk’s assistance, bought some shorts and tops for each of them, along with some undergarments. He included a pair of sandals for Gisele and some grooming items, including toothbrushes. After the clerk stuffed it all in a shopping bag, he headed for the elevator.
Micah entered the suite, and heard the shower. He dumped the bag on the bed and stripped off his clothes. Pushing open the door, he saw Gisele naked with the water spraying over her shoulders. He took a moment to drink in the sight of her; he was hard for her before he reached for the shower door.
Gisele looked up and, upon seeing Micah, opened her arms. Her long hair was soaked, and he grabbed a handful of it to tip her head back. The hot kiss she gave him sent heat flooding his belly. He dipped his tongue next to hers, and his desire surged.
Micah slid his hands over Gisele’s slick skin, feeling every dip and curve. He cupped her sex and rubbed his palm over her vulva, making her moan. She gasped then gyrated her hips to encourage him. She wrapped her hand around his cock, squeezing and stroking until he was crazy with lust.
With his hands on her waist, Micah lifted Gisele and leaned her against the shower wall. She wrapped her legs around his waist and hugged his shoulders, kissing his neck and jaw. Micah lifted her just enough to slide inside. She was so hot and wet for him.
Micah groaned and pumped into her, and Gisele whimpered with delight. Her breasts grazed his chest as he fucked her, and her stiff nipples raked his skin. It was too much; his balls tightened and his abdomen flattened. With every muscle taut, Micah exploded inside her, just as Gisele pulsed over his cock, waves of climax taking her.
Panting and moaning, they came together, releasing hard against each other. When Gisele calmed, Micah let her legs slid down his body until she could stand. He kissed her, long and tenderly. When she looked in his eyes, Micah mouthed, “Good morning.”
Gisele smiled. “I didn’t know where you were. I thought you went to get food or something.”
“I should have. But I did get clothes for us.”
“We’re not going back?”
The way her eyes sparkled told Micah that she didn’t want to leave any more than he did. “Not yet,” he said. “I thought we’d do something today.”
“I hope you’re going to feed me first.”
“That’s my plan. There are enough restaurants here, so that shouldn’t be a problem.” Micah soaped up, then handed the soap to Gisele. “Once we dry off and get dressed, we’ll go find a place for breakfast.”
Soapy all over, Micah washed Gisele, while she washed him. They were both so sudsy that they started laughing, and ended up having a soap fight. Then Micah took the nozzle from the hook and sprayed them off. He stepped out first to dry. “If I don’t eat soon, I’ll be chewing on the towels,” he said.
It didn’t take long to get ready. To save time, Gisele even left her hair damp. “I need coffee,” she said.
The café in the plaza had a breakfast buffet, and they got in before it closed. The place had a view of the landscaped pool area, so Gisele opted to eat on the outdoor patio. They ordered coffee, then went to check out the food.
While Gisele chose what she wanted, Micah piled his plate without being too picky. The breakfast included omelets, fruit, biscuits, bacon, and potatoes, so he had some of everything. If he was still hungry, he’d come back, since there was no more room on his plate.
Micah ate like a starved man, which he was. He thought the food was good, although he barely tasted it as it was going down. The fruit was refreshing, and after devouring most of what was on his plate, he savored a few bites of melon and gulped some coffee.
Gisele looked across and smiled at him. Her plate had a muffin she’d torn apart, half-eaten scrambled eggs, and some remaining melon. She sipped her coffee. “Are you getting full?”
“Getting there,” Micah said, admiring how fresh and lovely Gisele looked. “Being around you works up my appetite.”
Gisele gave him a coy look. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”
“I’m glad you could come away with me,” Micah said.
“So am I…very glad.” Gisele pushed her plate to the side and leaned back, looking satisfied.
“I’m curious about all those guards at the complex.” Micah decided it couldn’t hurt to ask. “Do they only watch you when you have visitors, or do they follow you around?”
“There’s no reason to follow me,” Gisele said. “The guards are there as protection, but it’s for business. I don’t have a personal bodyguard, if that’s what you’re thinking.” She furrowed her brow. “You’re not still mad because Alek wouldn’t let us leave that night, are you?”
“I can’t say that he won any points with that move,” Micah said, munching on a chunk of fruit. “I get being cautious. But he knew who I was.”
“Sure he did,” Gisele said. “My brother checks out each player before they are allowed into the game. He’s just overprotective, that’s all.”
“That’s what you call it? Overprotective?”
Gisele frowned. “You haven’t seen what I have. He has reason to be.”
“I’d like to ask about that, but I’m afraid you won’t tell me.” Micah studied her.
“I’m having a good time, so it’s not something I feel like talking about right now.” Gisele rolled her shoulder. “It would probably bore you anyway. You’re a tough guy. You’ve seen it all, right?”
There was an edge to her voice that Micah didn’t like. “What’s wrong with being tough?” He hesitated. “Sometimes that’s what it takes.”
“So I’ve heard,” Gisele said.
“Meaning what?”
Gisele shook her head. “You don’t get it, do you? It’s not like I was raised in suburbia. I’ve lived around…more violence and power-hungry, greedy men than I care to admit.”
“That’s what worries me,” Micah said. “You should consider getting out of there.” It was none of his business, but he had to say it.
“I plan to,” Gisele said. “I turn twenty-one soon, and I’m done with all that glitz and glamour.”
“What are you going to do?”
“Can we talk about something else?” Gisele’s expression conveyed that the discussion was over.
“Sure.” Micah finished his coffee. “What would you like to do today?”
That brightened her up. “I’ve lived in Vegas for years, but I’ve never been in a hot air balloon,” Gisele said. “It’s a good day for that…sunny, light breeze.”
“A hot air balloon it is, then.” Micah pushed back his chair. “Are you expected at work tonight?”
“I’ll just text Alek and let him know I won’t be able to make it.” Gisele stood up and took Micah’s arm. “I have other plans.”
Micah’s date with Gisele was turning into a weekend together. He liked that idea. When they got to the car, Micah scrolled on his phone, and was able to make reservations for the balloon flight. The closest location for the hot air balloons was a bit of a drive, but he had the Mustang, so the trip wouldn’t be bad at all.
Buying the pair of shorts for Gisele had been a good idea. During the drive, Micah had a nice view of her long bare legs. He put his hand on her knee, and she stroked his forearm affectionately. “So have you and Luke been friends for a long time?”
“Yeah, we met when he was still fighting. He’s from Jersey, so we ended up in some matches together.” Micah kept his eyes on the road, but was acutely aware of the sexy woman beside him.
“Does he still fight?”
“Not officially. He’s had more than his share of injuries, so he doesn’t compete.” Micah told her a bit more about his friend, how they’d formed their partnership, and Luke’s role. “He’s a good guy to have around. We make a good team.”
“So it seems.” Gisele put her hand on his thigh, and Micah’s body responded. “What about your family? Do you see them often?”
That was a sore subject. Micah just wasn’t so good with family stuff. It’s not that he wasn’t close to his brothers; he just didn’t remember birthdays and stuff. If it wasn’t for talking to his mother Sophia, he wouldn’t have a clue what anyone was up to.
“I haven’t seen them in a while.” Micah tried to brush it off. “I call my mom sometimes, just to be sure everything’s okay. And once in a while I talk to my sister Daniela. She has her career in New York.”
“Don’t you miss your brothers?”
Micah shrugged. “Sure. It’s just that…well, I guess I was always the wild one. I drifted away, got totally wrapped up in fighting. I don’t know…the months go by so fast.”
Gisele just watched him.
“I’m just different…I suppose that’s the only way to put it.” Micah checked his rearview mirror. There was no reason to think they were being followed, but he couldn’t shake the feeling.
“My brothers are more…refined. Gianni is some sort of fashion billionaire, Jacob took over the family importing business, and Stephano is a professional photographer.”
Micah glanced at Gisele, noting that she was still interested. “They have conventional careers, will probably get married and have a family.”
“And you?”
“I fight. That’s what I do.”
Gisele squeezed his thigh. “And gamble.”
Micah smiled at her. “And gamble…if the stakes interest me.”
Gisele’s soft laugh was heartwarming. “I’m glad you found me worth it.”
Before long, they were close to the launch site, and Micah followed the directions, finding it with no trouble. Colorful balloons were visible long before he turned into the parking lot. Taking to the skies in a hot air balloon hadn’t been one of Micah’s aspirations. But he was willing to give it a try, especially since Gisele was so excited about it.
It took a while to board, but the one-hour flight was worth it. The balloon soared over the neighborhoods of Las Vegas, and provided views of majestic Red Rock Canyon. Gisele nestled close to him and leaned over. “It’s so gorgeous, isn’t it?” Micah just nodded.
Floating in the sky, they had an unobstructed 360-degree view of the valley. Micah soaked in the feeling of peace and tranquility. The pilot was knowledgeable and had a good sense of humor, which made the flight more enjoyable.
Micah had booked a semiprivate flight, so only one other couple was with them. The balloon was surprisingly stable, with no rocking at all, and Gisele seemed to have no fear of heights. The precise landing was impressive; the pilot managed to bring the balloon down exactly where he intended to.
After the flight, mimosas were served with a light lunch. Micah took delight in seeing Gisele’s joy over the experience. “It was so romantic,” she said. He couldn’t argue with that.
By the time they left, it was late in the day. Once they got back to the resort, Gisele suggested they go to some of the shops. Holding hands, they looked around the quaint, Italian-inspired village. “This place reminds me of something out of a storybook,” Gisele said.
They took a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, and visited a couple of the boutiques so Gisele could do some shopping. “I need a jacket. It might get chilly later.”
As the sun began to set, Micah took her to one of the more elegant restaurants, featuring steak and seafood. He was in the mood for a juicy steak. Out the window, they watched the sun go down. The sky changed from blue to purple, then to fiery orange-red.
“I bet this sunset would be amazing from up in the balloon,” Gisele said. “And up that high, we’d see the lights come on at the Strip when it gets dark.”
“We’ll have to take a sunset ride sometime.”
“I’d love that,” Gisele said.
Micah ordered a bottle of red wine, and they drank while waiting for the food. Gisele talked about her friend Abby, and told him about her brother. She shared some tales of growing up in Chicago, without revealing anything too personal. Micah knew she was holding back, but that was okay with him.
“That balloon ride was quite something,” Micah said. “It gave me perspective, being up so high, floating above everything.”
“Yes, it was the same for me.” Gisele sipped her wine. “Up there, no one can touch you. You’re up in the clouds, above it all.” She looked into his eyes. “Just for a while, we were…away.”
Micah was about to ask more about that, but the waiter arrived with the meals. Gisele had selected the fresh fish with grilled vegetables. Micah had ordered the thickest steak they had, and wasted no time cutting into it. The meat was not a disappointment; it was tender, hot, and juicy.
While eating, Micah glanced at Gisele. Her hair was windblown from the balloon ride, and he liked that she hadn’t fussed over it. She looked damn sexy at the moment. Actually, she looked sexy every time he’d seen her. She was just hot; that’s all there was to it.
Gisele looked over as he carved into the baked potato and dumped on the sour cream. “I like to watch you eat,” she said. “You do it with such…gusto.”
Micah laughed.
Gisele’s eyes filled with emotion. “Just like you do…everything you do.”
Micah put down his fork to reach over to take her hand and kiss her fingertips. His lips tingled and his pants were uncomfortably tight. God, how he wanted her. “Gisele…”
She rubbed his knuckles against her cheek. “I’m yours for another night.”
Micah’s blood heated. He couldn’t wait to get her back to the room. Gisele stirred urges that weren’t easily satisfied; maybe they couldn’t be. But he’d like to try. The vision of Gisele naked in his arms, the feel of her body pressed to his, sparked his growing arousal.
Micah didn’t know what would happen tomorrow or the next day. When it came to women, he didn’t think in those terms, or he hadn’t. With Gisele it was different. There was something special about her, and he wasn’t anxious to let her go.
There was no certainty of anything permanent. That hadn’t been Micah’s strength. But he had her for another night, and he intended to give Gisele all the pleasure she could handle. And if the night before was any indication, she could handle a lot.
Gisele turned his hand over and stroked her tongue up his wrist. The look in her eyes lit a fire inside him. “You know what you’re doing to me, don’t you?”
Gisele’s reply was to put the tip of his finger in her mouth and suck, while not taking her eyes off him. Micah reached into his pocket and threw some cash on the table. Then he stood up and pulled Gisele into his arms.
Micah gave her a deep, passionate kiss, not caring who saw. Gisele emitted a screech when he scooped her into his arms and headed for the exit. “We’re done here,” he said, and strode toward the hotel.