Chapter 33
SHANE
“Liam, this is not the time for jokes,” I say, trying to keep seriousness in my voice while I finish biting my sandwich. Worry is building up in my chest, and I need to get it out, especially one that resonates heavily in my head. “You know what I mean. I can’t keep ignoring the fact that we haven’t been using protection.”
He frowns, his expression shifting from amusement to a more serious focus.
“I see. But I want you to know something important: I’m clean of any STIs. I had a checkup recently, and everything came back fine. I can show you if you want.”
I take a deep breath, feeling momentary relief, but my unease is still there, as it’s not just about STIs. There’s also the issue of an unwanted pregnancy.
“Okay, I believe you. I… the truth is I don’t have one since I was a virgin until recently, but I promise I’ll catch up on that.” His eyes shine, and I know he’s recalling the exact moment I gave him my virginity.
“I love knowing you’re mine.” My cheeks flush.
“But STIs aren’t the only problem,” he shifts the conversation, as I see a look on his face that says, “I’m going to fuck you right here and now.” “There’s also the fact of a potential pregnancy.” I whisper the words, not daring to look at him. I know that we took precautions the first time, but we haven’t in the last two, and I recognize the irresponsibility on my part.
“And so what?” he says, his expression surprised. “Actions have consequences, Shane. We’re adults and can handle things as they come.”
Something within me sinks; does that mean he doesn’t want kids? Would he see it as a problem to be solved? My mood drops a little.
“Fine,” I say, swallowing the lump in my throat. I won’t let this discourage me; we’re just starting a relationship, and it’s totally normal that a baby isn’t in the equation yet. So I make a mental note to go to the doctor for some form of birth control.
“Wolf…”
“Rule number 1: you can’t come looking for me at work. Rule number 2: no one from my work can know we’re together until your mother’s house renovations are done. I don’t want my boss to find out about what’s happening between us. The last thing I need is for them to interfere in my personal life. The rumor could spread and cause me a lot of trouble…” A loud growl resonates, making me jump out of my seat. I look around, searching for the dog I’m sure is there. “D-do you have a dog?” I stammer.
“Wolf. And he won’t bite you,” his voice has become very serious. “Sit down, Shane. We’re not done talking yet.”
I’m surprised by his firm tone as I look at him, seeking some explanation, but I find myself trapped in his intense gaze. How the hell did he bring a dog here?
I sit back down, and Liam leans forward, his eyes fixed on mine, ferocity apparent in his expression.
“What?” I ask, feeling a mix of unease and anticipation.
“Listen closely,” he says, confidence resonating in his voice with each word, “I won’t let anyone dictate our lives. Not to me, nor to what I feel for you. I don’t give a damn who sees us together. You are mine, and that is undeniable. The world can think whatever it wants.”
His protective attitude makes me smile despite the anxiety. There’s something about his demeanor, that raw energy he emits, that gives me a slight hint of comfort. Still, I can’t shake off the worry about the possible implications of our relationship.
“Don’t you understand? You own an empire, Liam. I don’t. I have to take care of my job.”
“And you will, but you can also be yourself. I promise I won’t create problems in your professional life. I’ll do what you say… for now.” A playful glint appears in his eyes, and I can’t help but smile at his challenging attitude. It’s a strange mix of power and tenderness.
“That sounds like a huge concession,” I reply, feeling a little relieved.
After breakfast, I escort him to the bedroom, watching him go to the closet. I lean against the doorframe and watch him get ready for the day. He dresses in a black three-piece suit that accentuates his figure and leaves me breathless. He always knows how to look stunning, but right now, I want him to be just mine.
“Where are my panties?”
“What?” He looks over his shoulder at me.
“You know, those that women wear…”
“I know what panties are, smartass. I just don’t understand what you mean.”
I smile because I can’t help but like this relaxed side of him.
“Where’s my dress and my panties?”
“Oh, now that I can answer! Like a little kid who knows the multiplication table- I’ve put them in the bathroom for the cleaning staff to handle.”
“What?” I straighten up, stepping inside the closet. “Liam, my panties were in there! God, what am I supposed to wear now?”
“I’m sorry, little wolf. Just grab one of my boxers.”
“Uh-huh, care to explain how I’m supposed to fit these thick legs and my butt in those? No thanks, I’ll pass. I’ll go like this; after all, I’ll only get out of your car once.”
He nods with a playful sparkle in his eyes. When we’re finally ready to leave, I pick up my heels from the floor and we head down the stairs. As I grab my purse, I try to maintain whatever dignity I have left, ignoring the fact that my outfit highlights every curve of my body.
“Wipe that silly grin off your face,” I tell him, pointing at him with a hint of challenge as the elevator doors close, creating an intimate space just for the two of us.
“I can’t. You look too sexy in my shirt.” His gaze roams me up and down, filling me with a burning thrill that makes me blush.
“Shut up,” I reply, trying to sound serious, although the intention behind his words, the way he looks at me, stirs something deep within me.
“Shut me up.” Suddenly, his hands are hovering over my face, and in an instant, his lips crash onto mine. The kiss is fierce, deep, charged with a need that ignites around us.
The elevator descends. Our bodies move closer, sensations intensifying with every passing second. His tongue dances with mine, soft and passionate caresses.
When the elevator finally stops and the doors open, he lets me go, but the air between us is thick with tension, our breaths quickened. Our eyes meet, filled with desire and hunger, as we try to catch our breath in the brief moment before facing the world.