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Something Like Hate: An Enemies-to-Lovers Billionaire Romance

Page 18

by Harloe Rae


  “That could be arranged.” My voice is husky, betraying the quiver that’s hypnotizing my lower half.

  “No one will dare to interrupt us.” His assurance isn’t necessary.

  A quirked brow meets his confident smirk. “I can imagine the wrath anyone foolish enough to stride through that door would face.”

  “The penalty is steep.” He holds out a palm to me. “Come here.”

  I snap my attention to his proffered gesture. His hands are strong and powerful, thick in ways I imagine will work well in my favor. A contradiction to his life as a billionaire executive. Callouses litter the base of his fingers. There are several scars too. He’s not flawless. I’m not sure he pretends to be. The sight suggests he doesn’t mind getting rough and dirty. Why does that visual turn me on?

  A snarky retort claws at me, but I wrestle it into submission. “That better be an innuendo.”

  Landon’s expression is smoldering. Those brown depths captivate me as I shed the last of my hesitation. I slip my hand into his, letting him lead me to the leather chair that’s angled toward us from behind a huge desk. A person could easily sleep underneath this behemoth without being noticed.

  With a hand to my shoulder, he instructs me to sit. “I’d like to spoil my appetite by having dessert first. Would that be okay with you?”

  Fiery heat races up my neck as the steel ridge of his own excitement juts at me. “Someone is happy to see me.”

  “Ignore that.” He tsks. “This is just about you.”

  “Oh, I didn’t peg you for a selfless giver. You don’t expect anything in return?”

  “Not yet.” He checks his watch. “We have all day—and night.”

  “You’re making a lot of plans.”

  “Do you want this with me?” He stands in front of me, ready to drop at my command.

  I’ve never been one to shy away from my sexuality. Mature adults can fool around—without any strings attached—while maintaining a professional relationship. But this is Landon Winters I’m considering. He’s the bane of my existence. If I agree to this, our roles will shift into a more complicated maze. Gaining the upper hand will be that much harder. Weighing the decision while his gaze threatens to incinerate my clothes is proving to be futile. Regret can find me later.

  “Proceed, Lannie.” Then I spread my legs in offering.

  He doesn’t bother trying to kiss me. We’re not intimate lovers making a romantic connection. This isn’t a tender moment where emotions need to be blended into the mix. He crouches and bunches my skirt around my hips. His finger snaps the thin elastic protecting my modesty.

  “These are sexy.” Landon’s voice resembles a growl as he stares at my covered folds.

  “Thanks.” It’s not like I chose the slinky thong with him in mind.

  “They’re also in my way.” He tugs the scrap of lace down my legs, pocketing the evidence.

  I shiver, my nipples puckering beneath silky satin. That slight rasp is more potent than an electrical shock. I bite my bottom lip to trap a moan from escaping as he bends toward me.

  He peppers kisses along my inner thigh, then treats the other to a similar fate. The tingles from those teasing touches aim straight for my core. I clench at the emptiness, a whimper almost escaping. He’s certainly taking his time, lavishing the area around my center with licks and nips. His shoulders spread me wider as he notches himself against me.

  Cool air whispers across my slickness and I shudder from the tantalizing sensation. My nerves are hyperaware as I hang in the balance for his next move. His methods are intentional, getting me turned on until my mind shuts off and allows my body to take over. I’m ready to shove myself into his mouth at this point. When Landon finally connects with my slit, I’m so eager that I nearly rocket off the chair. Static convulsions collect in my lower belly, sending off sparks that make me gasp. I’m a throb of greedy desire—hot and yearning—ready to explode.

  Landon drags his tongue along my most sensitive bits. I spear my fingers through his hair, anchoring us together. He swirls around my clit before latching on and sucking hard. A wheeze trips from my gaping mouth. The man is good. He doesn’t even need to use his hands for me to melt in his freaking clutches. His technique should be published in a sexual guide for dummies.

  I’m already racing toward the edge after mere moments under his expert tongue. I grind against his face like a shameless hussy. Seeking relief is all I care about. I’m lost to his wet caress and disconnecting from our surroundings. Higher and higher he pushes me. A scream tickles my throat and I gulp to chase the sound away. Locked in the lion’s den we might be, but I don’t need to draw attention.

  The mounting pressure is ratcheting loud enough that I don’t hear the door open. Clarity pierces the fog as Walt strides forward, directly toward me.

  As if sensing our unexpected company, Landon shuffles sideways and remains out of sight. He adjusts our position while dipping under the desk, dragging me with him. As he shifts us, I’m left facing Walt while his tongue continues assaulting my clit. He doesn’t detach for a single second, keeping me on the precipice regardless of our interruption.

  I shove at Landon’s head that’s still very much lodged between my thighs, but he doesn’t budge. Quite the opposite, actually. The bastard continues assaulting my sex with renewed vigor. My eyes roll back without consent as he strikes again. I squirm and wiggle on the chair, but only scoot an inch. He bands an arm across my hips, anchoring me in place. The message is clear—I’m not going anywhere. He expects me to sit here and take it while his assistant gawks at me. I grip the desk until my knuckles are white.

  “Ms. Simons?” Walt is squinting at me while I attempt to stave off the most powerful orgasm of my life.

  “You need to leave,” I spew out through gritted teeth. Sweat tickles my hairline.

  He moves closer and I choke on my own spit. “Are you feeling well?”

  “Not at the moment. I will be once you get out.” I wave a sloppy palm toward the propped door. Landon chooses this moment to shove a finger inside me, wiggling that digit in search of my hidden sweet spot. “Oh, sweet Lord.”

  Walt peers from left to right, a crease forming between his brows. “What’s wrong, Ms. Simons?”

  I slap a palm to the smooth wood under my grasp. “You.”

  He recoils, a hand on his chest. “That’s harsh.”

  As if he isn’t used to it. I narrow my eyes, battling again the molten embers surging my veins. “Why are you still here?”

  Walt keeps his feet planted. “Where’s Mr. Winters?”

  “Get out, get out, get out!” The chant follows the rush of flames lapping at my core.

  A chuckle erupts from Landon, buried from view beneath me and the freaking desk.

  Realization stains Walt’s cheeks. “Um, okay. Good luck with that.”

  He scurries from the room as if his ass has been cracked with a whip.

  A sigh deflates the tension flexing my posture. Landon still doesn’t let up, attacking my pulsing bundle with an intensity that could make me black out. I tighten my hold on his hair. “You’re an ass—”

  I’m cut off when he hums against my center. A yelp is ripped from me before I can stem the telling sound. I muffle the noise with a palm across my lips. With another harsh tug of suction, I’m sent into the welcoming abyss. White steals my vision for a second as I blast into climax. My limbs lock up as I twitch against this immovable force. Even though I’m already soaring, Landon still eats at me.

  When I sag into the chair, the filthy man on his knees finally lets up. His mouth is glossy from me and the sight does stupid things to my resolve at staying angry.

  My exhales are breathy puffs as I prepare to scold him. “You did that on purpose.”

  “There’s no proving that.”

  “Liar.”

  “Should I make it up to you?” He blows a steamy exhale across my exposed center.

  “That’s not necessary.” I attempt to snap my legs shu
t, but he’s blocking the way. It probably doesn’t help that my muscles resemble the consistency of a jelly puddle. “You’ve already done plenty. I’m not sure if I’ll survive another.”

  “Do you want a new confession from me?” He’s still worshiping at my throne, making no move to retreat.

  I sprawl in a lazy heap without concern for decorum. Let the man have his fill. “Sure, why not.”

  It’s not like I’m going anywhere.

  “Listening to you argue is arousing as fuck, but hearing you shatter by my doing? That’s irresistible, sugar.”

  I let my jaw go slack while he dives back in, proving his conviction.

  I glare out my window as the limo putters along Walton Street. The bow tie around my neck threatens to choke me as I allow the memories from earlier to seep in. My mind indulges in the interesting twist in our dynamic that this morning delivered. Vannah shocked me with her enthusiasm. Her initial reluctance at another round vanished once my tongue returned to her pussy. She left gouges in my scalp from her yanking. That woman has an appetite that can rival mine, which I’ve never found until now. Just further proof that Vannah is changing the game. She might not even realize it. I’ll need to recalibrate my strategy after I’m done fucking her.

  Speaking of getting shit done, we had a semi-productive afternoon. I alternated between staving off my increasing hunger for her and answering emails that required no real effort. My brain took a vacation after she clamped her knees around my ears for the third time. In hindsight, that move probably protected my hearing. Vannah is a screamer. Just recalling those high-pitched squeals gets me hard all over again. I adjust my dick, cursing the damn thing for refusing to quit. Jacking off in the shower didn’t take the edge off. Too bad she wasn’t there to watch—or lend a helping hand. We can explore those options later.

  Karl pulls the limo up to the wraparound entrance at the Waldorf. I sent Vannah a text three minutes ago to let her know we would be arriving soon. That’s about the extent of her knowledge as to where this evening leads. Other than choosing a wardrobe fit for royalty, she’s left the rest up to me. Not that getting her to agree—and blindly trust me—was easy. That’s where her third climax came in handy. My lips tingle with a phantom sensation as if her quivering pulse lingers there. Her tangy essence still stains my tongue, a pungent mix of honey and dirty fantasies. Reminiscing about her taste isn’t doing me any favors in the erection department. The last thing I need is more blood rushing to my cock. I stifle a groan and shift along the wide seat.

  An unmistakable redhead with gemstones sparkling in her auburn curls appears just beyond the curtained foyer. Another green dress molds to her curvaceous figure. This one is a floor-length gown, the hem kissing her stilted heels. Her eyes are a similar color, lined in black and demanding notice. Thanks to the summer heat, her shoulders are bare and on display. The diamond necklace I sent over drapes around her slender neck like an affectionate embrace. I allow a smirk to appear as her glittering embellishments catch the light. My brand is marking her, even if the significance is only mine to comprehend.

  Karl unbuckles his belt and moves to get out. I hold up a hand to stop him. “I’ve got this handled.”

  He glances at me in the rearview mirror. “Are you sure, Mr. Winters?”

  “Positive.” I tug at the bow tie that’s still too tight. “No one touches her but me.”

  Crinkles form around his eyes. “Understood, sir.”

  I step onto the cobbled road, propping my hip against the vehicle. Vannah’s gaze clashes with mine and a slow smile curls her ruby lips. That glossy stain will be a pleasure to remove.

  She sashays from the hotel exit in all her strutting glory. Her slinky stride exposes the tantalizing skin on her upper thigh. The slit on her dress nearly reaches her hip. The message she’s sending throbs at my temples. Her glitzy ensemble will attract the attention of the entire guest list. Ladies will turn a darker shade than her dress in envy. The gentlemen will ditch their moral high ground and beg to take her home.

  When she’s within reach, I hold out my hand. “You’re quite striking, Savannah.”

  She slips her palm into mine. “Thanks to you hiring people to pamper me. I figured playing the role to the best of my ability was the least I could do to return the favor.”

  I lift her fingers clutched within mine, dusting kisses along each knuckle. “The end result is better than a wet dream.”

  “Someone is in a flattering mood,” she muses. “The hairstylist and makeup artist were a bit overkill, though.”

  “Nonsense. You deserve to be spoiled. Tonight is a special occasion.” I gesture to the backseat, assisting her as she settles against the leather.

  “Are you going to tell me where we’re heading? In a stretch limo, no less.” Vannah watches me with laser precision as I slide in beside her.

  I inhale a gluttonous breath, gorging on her flowery scent until my lungs ache. She smells good enough to eat for every meal. This insatiable appetite will need to be fed. “We’re attending a charity gala to support underprivileged youth. A worthy cause I fully support and already donate regularly to. My check tonight will be enough to feed three families for a year.

  “Wow, that’s incredible.” She schools the fascination slacking her features. “Are you trying to win me over?”

  Always the skeptic, this one.

  “I’m well aware there’s no sense in doing so. That was just me stating facts.” I finger a red wave near her encrusted ear. She’s dripping in my jewels. “Have you forgiven me yet?”

  Vannah wasn’t very impressed that Walt barged in on us, to say the least. I left her out to dry or some nonsense along those lines. Truth be told, I kept her drenched and satisfied. Her frustrations poured out with each flick of my tongue.

  “What do you think?” She takes a meaningful glance at her exposed thigh.

  I trace her seductive peek-a-boo with fire in my gaze. “Oh, this is payback. I should’ve smelled the revenge plot when you first walked out.”

  Her pert nose lifts into the air. She’ll fit right in with the company we’re about to keep. “Looking and not touching serves you right.”

  “You won’t let me slip under here?” I skate a finger along the silky fabric where it caresses her leg.

  “I haven’t recovered from your last apology. My freaking clit is numb.”

  “Should I take a look?” I skim closer to the juncture where she’s crossing her legs.

  She grabs my wrist, plopping my advances onto her knee. “Maybe in an hour or two.”

  “That sounds promising. If nothing else, I want to thank you for accompanying me this evening.”

  “Did I have a choice?”

  “You can always refuse, and please believe I’ll listen.” I furrow my brow, waiting until she looks at me before I go on. “This is uncharted territory for me, Savannah.”

  She turns in her seat to face me. “What do you mean?”

  Warning her is probably in our best interest. “I never arrive with a date to these affairs, in any capacity. Inviting you will cause quite a stir.”

  “How scandalous.” She presses a palm to her cheek, staging the scene.

  “People won’t be able to stop talking about you.” The fact that she’s attached to me is even better. My chest expands on its own accord. I have the beauty of the ball.

  Vannah laughs, the tone soft and lyrical. “Providing gossip material for the rich and bored has been on my bucket list.”

  I trace the shape of her angular chin. “People won’t be able to keep your name from their mouths. You’re a showstopper on a daily basis, sugar. Tonight is an entirely different story.”

  “Dammit.” She curses a filthy slew under her breath.

  I can’t imagine what’s her latest affliction. “Problem?”

  She’s glaring out the window. “I don’t like it when you’re decent. If you were hauling me to an ostentatious soiree for no reason other than to spend a small fortune on frivolous things
, it would be easier on my resolve.”

  “Not that predictable after all, huh?”

  “Don’t sound so smug.”

  “I wouldn’t dare.” We both know that’s a lie.

  Vannah studies me for a beat, then crosses her arms with a huff. “Well, for what it’s worth, I’m a little impressed.”

  Small or not, any victory against her is monumental. “Does that deserve a reward?”

  She bats her lashes in that ridiculous way I’m growing attached to. “Should I straddle your lap?”

  I bite my fist with a groan. “You temptress. I’d hate to ruin your flawless appearance.”

  A shrug meets my sound reasoning. “I don’t mind being mussed. A pristine presentation is overrated.”

  “Not in this case.” I’m all for breaking society’s rigid expectations, but I refuse to let Vannah become a laughingstock. She’s not from this world and doesn’t understand the hell it can bring.

  Her expression hardens. “Right, I almost forgot.”

  “After,” I promise. I’m not sure if that vow is for me or her.

  “We’ll see.” Her voice is flat and bland as she drops her gaze.

  “Savannah.” I reach for her hand again, threading our fingers. Even I can offer tender contact when necessary. “I didn’t mean to ruin the moment.”

  “It was bound to happen eventually,” she mutters. “Don’t worry about it, Lannie. I know where we stand. The Haters Club, right?”

  My chance to make amends is stolen from me as we reach our destination. The planetarium is already teeming with activity when Karl steers to the front entrance. An attendant rushes to open my door, sweeping into a low bow like we’re the king and queen. The performance these organizers insist on providing is a tad over the top. I imagine most of this crowd loves being doted on, though.

  “I suppose this counts as a private tour.” Vannah’s whisper reaches me while I offer a hand to help her from the low seat.

  “With a hundred others included.” Not nearly secluded enough for my liking. Every man at the event will be breaking his neck to get a look at her. She’ll be on my arm, though.

 

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