Hard Case by Elizabeth Lapthorne Read Free Book Online Page B

collect themselves. When Steve turned to glance at Troy, he was already facing him.
    Steve grinned, feeling decadent and naughty. He’d been a teenager the last time he’d necked seriously in a car. While the randy feeling was no different, he could force himself to act maturely now. He held a far greater measure of control today than he did back then. He focused on the task ahead of them, willing his erection to subside at least until they could get somewhere more private and suited to all the sensual plans he had in store for Troy.
    Troy had a sparkle in his eye. Steven would have bet heavily the man’s thoughts were as naughty—if not more so. Steve licked his lips, eager to learn and experience first-hand just how down and dirty Troy could get. He anticipated a long string of intimate encounters that could continue to fuel his fantasies for years to come.
    Without needing to say a word, they seemed to promise each other the same thing.
    Not much longer. I’ll spread your cheeks and fuck you insensate very soon.
    “Shall we get moving, then?” Troy said.
    Steven nodded. “Absolutely.”
     
    * * * *
     
    It took them almost ten minutes to pass through the security checks and visitor pass form-signing. As they were directed through to Marshall’s personal assistant, Troy took a minute to study the interior of the old building. It reeked of old money, power and prestige—wood paneling that never went out of style but merely became more aristocratic. There were a number of oil paintings covering the walls. They depicted various landscapes and a few hunting scenes, the sort Troy could believe hung in men’s clubs and ancient castles in days gone by.
    The hushed atmosphere reminded him of certain libraries and galleries—the sense that one could only speak in low tones or risk coming across as vulgar. It all added up to layers of lies, deception and power plays—the sort of thing Troy usually avoided like the plague.
    Worried Steven might feel right at home here, Troy cast a quick glance at him. He had to smother a smile. Steve appeared rougher here among all the refined snobbery. The small scar above his eyebrow, the clear indication his nose had been broken at least once and his sturdy, well-muscled build weren’t hidden by the expensive coat, designer jeans or the softness of the cashmere jumper he wore.
    Troy had no doubt Steve could follow all the rules these people had in the book, but he’d never let it change who he was. His respect and admiration for Steve rose several notches. Just as he finished his assessment, Steven caught Troy’s glance. Steve stuck his tongue into his cheek and rolled his eyes—clearly expressing his thoughts on all the pageantry and richness surrounding them.
    Clearing his throat, Troy looked away, not wanting to shame them both by cracking up into some entirely unsuitable laughter.
    The sharply dressed woman paused outside a door identical to all the others, dark wood polished to a high gleam. She gave them both a discreet but unmistakable once-over, a twinkle in her eye showing she that seemed to appreciate the eye-candy.
    “Mr. Knox has been informed of your arrival. As stated in the security documents you signed, you’re to stay either with him or Mr. Marshall at all times. Visitors are not permitted to be unescorted,” she recited in well-bred tones.
    They nodded.
    She knocked on the door and someone called for them to enter.
    “I’m Ms. Roberts,” she murmured to them both as she bent to take the door knob. “Do feel free to contact me if you require anything further.”
    Troy shot a quick glance at Steven. Ms. Roberts looked at them each in turn, seeming to feel her offer was open to either—or perhaps both—of them. Troy grinned his most charming smile, not willing to burn any bridge. In places like this, it always paid to keep friends and not offend anyone unless it became strictly necessary.
    “Thank you, Ms. Roberts. You’re most kind. I believe we’ll be