Total pages in book: 29
Estimated words: 26739 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 134(@200wpm)___ 107(@250wpm)___ 89(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 26739 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 134(@200wpm)___ 107(@250wpm)___ 89(@300wpm)
“I’m glad I made you laugh. The sound is melodious, my lady, and your courtier is here to please you.”
I giggled again.
“Thanks, kind sir. I’ll keep that in mind.”
He made another sweeping bow.
“Call me Sir Adam, my lady. And I shall call you The Fair Lady Kimberly.”
Now, this was getting out of hand.
“Okay, okay, I get it. Despite your handsome, untouchable exterior, you’re actually a goofball at heart.”
He grinned again.
“I am thus revealed, dearest Lady Kim. Also, I’m very touchable, if you would be so inclined.”
My heart expanded, pushing painfully against my chest as I nodded. I had been nervous about touching him for more than one reason and his words helped ease that a bit.
Glancing at his hand that he still held extended, I took it with only a slight hesitation. His skin was rougher than mine, but as his fingers closed around my hand, I felt nothing but comfort. When was the last time someone had just held my hand? At least in middle school, if not further back.
A light squeeze pulled me back to the present.
“So what do you want to do today? Your wish is my command, my lady.”
Smiling, I thought for a moment. Everything he suggested sounded divine, but for now I wanted to just relax for a bit with him. The best place for that would be the kitchen, what with my love to cook. Maybe he would let me use his fancy convection oven.
“Maybe let’s cook something together? I didn’t get around to eating lunch and I’d like to throw something together to appease my growling stomach.” None of that was a lie; although I had been too nervous to eat earlier, I had also been too busy. The duffle bag that still sat in my car had been packed and repacked so many times I’d lost track. I hadn’t been sure what to bring, and my nerves were frazzled. I eventually just threw random things into the duffle before zipping it closed emphatically. I would have more chances to fine tune what to bring with me on future weekends, after all.
Adam immediately smiled, the sight dazzling me for a moment before I focused again.
“Absolutely, I have all the best equipment for you to use. Would it be presumptuous if I asked you to make enough for me too?”
I giggled, and as he wrapped his arm around my waist and led us to the kitchen, I relaxed into his side.
“That wouldn’t be too bold of you. I enjoy cooking and I was already planning on making enough for you if you wanted some. I just wasn’t sure if you were hungry.”
He flashed another smile that had me fighting to stay in the present before stopping outside of the kitchen.
“I’ll never refuse food made by you, my lady.” Before I could dismiss his compliment, he continued. “Here we are. We should have any ingredients you need, but if we don’t just let me know and I’ll have them delivered. Meanwhile, I await your delightful concoction, my lady.”
With that, I giggled and got to work, my cheeks flushed. I’d imagined being ravished immediately upon my arrival today, but instead, I’m cooking in the kitchen with a godawful attractive man. Plus, he seems to find me pretty, and is able to temper his alpha dominant ways with a dose of humor that disarms me. Adam’s a tempting package, to be sure, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
7
Kim
The kitchen was gorgeous and it was all I could do not to run around like a kid in a candy store. There was a huge Sub-Zero fridge, two giant convection ovens, a microwave that opened and closed using a remote, as well as a six-top stove. Plus, the black marbled counters were sleek and custom dark cherry cabinets completed the look.
The open kitchen allowed me to move around easily as I explored my new tools. My excitement had me bouncing in place as I kept finding new things to be thrilled about. I heard a chuckle from the doorway that froze me in my tracks. Shifting between my feet, I looked anywhere but at Adam. I couldn’t believe I’d just yelped from excitement!
His feet came into view before strong arms wrapped around me. Suddenly being clasped to Adam’s chest made me jerk in surprise before relaxing into the embrace. I could feel the lean muscle of his arms against my back and the solid plain of his chest against my front. It made me feel…safe. It’s strange because alarm bells should have been ringing. I should be cringing whenever he comes near, but instead, all I feel is safety and comfort.
When Adam didn’t immediately pull back, I took the opportunity to return his hug. My arms settled around his waist, the position reminding me of couples dancing before I shook the thought off. Maybe someday we could go out dancing, but for now I’d enjoy the peaceful moment.