a good time.”
“Hey.” He took Rosalie’s hand and pulled her to him, ignoring his new admirer. “You look amazing.”
“Who’s your friend?” Rosalie glanced at the bar.
“Occupational hazard, sweetheart. It happens everywhere I go.” He kissed her cheek, taking in her sweet berry scent. “I told her I was waiting for my date.” That was a first for him. “Do you still want to be my date?”
“I bought a new dress.”
“It’s stunning.”
“I hoped you would like it.”
“I love it.” He placed his hand on the small of her back and guided her to the elevators. “We’re eating on the top floor tonight.”
“At Anton’s?”
“You know it?” Of course she would. Her family came from money, and her sister had lived in New York City before moving to Kingston.
“I’ve eaten there with my parents. It’s fantastic, but how did you get reservations on such short notice? It usually takes us six months to get in there. My dad plans his trip to the city based on when he can dine there.”
“Sometimes, being a major league pitcher has its perks.” He pressed the button to the elevator that went to the highest level of the hotel. “Having a senator for a father doesn’t hurt either.”
“The view up there is incredible.” They stepped into the empty elevator. “It’s a great choice. I’m impressed.”
“I’m happy you’re pleased.” He hit the button to the top floor before pushing her against the far side of the elevator, caressing her neck. “Can I get a kiss?”
“You’re asking this time?” Her flirty laugh echoed through the tiny space. “I like when you just take what you want.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.” He lowered his lips to her jaw as he took her waist in his hands, pulling her soft form close to his. The silky material of her dress left little to the imagination. She wasn’t wearing a bra, he would bet his salary on it. “About that kiss.” He tilted her chin, focusing on her mouth. “I’ve been thinking about doing it all day.”
“Stop thinking.”
“Eager?” He took her bottom lip between his teeth, gently tugging on it. When she shivered, the urge to kiss her became even more prominent, but he had to control his actions. This was about seducing her slowly, making her give in to his way of thinking. “Just a quick one.”
She leaned into him, connecting with his mouth before he could make the move. He smiled against her as she slipped her tongue inside, seeking out his. Their bond was slow, tender, and sensual. Sliding his hand from her chin to her hair, he massaged his fingers through her long locks. It all ended much too soon when the ding of the elevator indicated the door would be opening in a matter of seconds.
She stepped back, holding his gaze in her haunting charcoal-colored eyes. They seemed darker in the dim lighting, filled with a desire he hadn’t noticed before. Maybe it was his desire. She had his thoughts jumbled. He’d kissed many women before, but every time he locked lips with hers, he hated when it ended. Their interactions were never long enough. He had to have her. Patience wasn’t one of his better qualities.
“Was it worth the wait?” She wiped the smeared lipstick away from his mouth with her thumb.
“Huh?” When she touched his lips, the urge to kiss her again overtook him.
“You said you’d been thinking about kissing me all day. Was it what you expected?”
“You’re never what I expect, sweetheart.” He led her into the restaurant. “That’s what I like about you.”
“The unexpected?”
“Unexpected is always better than the same old story. Wouldn’t you agree?”
“Are we back to romance novels and fairytales again?”
“You’re a smart girl.” He took her hand in his because he wanted everyone to know she was with him. “You’ll figure it out.”
“I’m trying to figure you out.”
“What do you mean?”
“The date, the fancy restaurant. For a guy who only wants physical, why