Total pages in book: 92
Estimated words: 86226 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 431(@200wpm)___ 345(@250wpm)___ 287(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 86226 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 431(@200wpm)___ 345(@250wpm)___ 287(@300wpm)
“Yes.”
I turn my attention back to the monitors, and as I watch, I quickly develop a newfound respect for Phoenix and his work. He has Post-it notes about someone being suspicious, and there are notebooks full of paragraphs on people he’s keeping a close eye on. He’s an excellent observer and a master of detail, and I begin to understand why he values secrecy and security so highly. This is his family’s company, and he takes it seriously.
“But why not do this in Seattle? At Medusa?” I ask.
“I like it here. I do have a penthouse in Seattle, and sometimes go when I’m truly needed in the office by my sister. But my choice is to remain here, if possible.”
“Does anyone know you are up here?”
“Those that matter do.”
His hand brushes mine. His large, broad shoulders crowd my space as he leans to flip a switch. Every time he touches me, electricity courses through me.
At first, I’m not sure if Phoenix notices my reaction. But after a few times, it’s obvious he does. He always pulls away quickly and apologetically, but the spark between us continues to grow.
“I wanted to bring you up here to show you I’m turning off the camera in your room. I want you to see me do it so you know for a fact that I won’t invade your privacy any longer.” He turns a switch, and I see the guest room come up on the screen.
“How do I know you won’t just turn it back on?” I challenge.
“My word is everything. I detest liars more than anything in this world. If I say something to you, I honor that. I’d never lie.” With that, he flips off the camera, and the screen goes black.
Phoenix rises and makes his way to the open window allowing the sea air inside. I follow him so I can take in the view of the waves crashing against the cliff below.
“It’s the best view in the entire house,” he says.
The Salish Sea is beautiful, twinkling underneath the sunlight peeking out from the storm clouds. Olympus Manor sits on a cliff, but from this angle, it almost feels as if we are floating over the sea. I’m getting a glimpse of what being a God feels like. We are in Olympus staring down at the mortals below.
“It’s beautiful outside, and the rain has stopped. We should go for a walk,” I suggest.
“I don’t like going outside. I rarely leave the attic.” His eyes focus on the large willow tree balancing on the edge of the cliff.
I widen my eyes and turn my body to fully face him. Having to tilt my head back far so I can look into his eyes, I say, “But you went outside today.”
“For you. I did it for you,” is all he says.
Remembering how sweaty and agitated he got, it all makes sense now.
“You never leave?” I’m still not truly processing what he’s telling me.
“Not unless I have to.”
“Why?”
He shrugs. “Stuck.”
He looks down at me, possibly waiting for me to judge him, which I don’t. We all have our demons, and if this is his, I’ve seen worse.
“Thank you,” I whisper. Our bodies are so close, but neither of us is taking a step back to make space.
“For what?”
“For pushing past your boundaries for me. I don’t take that act lightly.”
Phoenix reaches out and takes my hand in his. His touch feels electric, like a wave of heat that washes over me. His gaze is intense, and he doesn’t say a word. Instead, he leans closer, lowers his head, and lightly brushes his lips against mine.
He tastes sweet, like honey, and his kiss sends a jolt of pleasure through my body. The kiss lingers for a few moments before he pulls away, leaving me wanting more.
I’m desperate for more of his touch, so I stand on my tiptoes and wrap my arms around his neck and pull him close. Our kiss deepens, and the heat radiates from his body.
His hands wander over my curves, exploring every inch of my skin. He moves his lips down to my neck and lightly nibbles my earlobe. I press myself against him and let out a soft moan of pleasure. He brings his hands further down my body, causing my skin to tingle with anticipation.
My breath is coming in shallow gasps as he stares into my eyes, and he begins to caress my body with slow, gentle strokes. He moves down my neck and over my chest, exploring every inch of me and driving me wild with desire. With each touch, my heart races faster, and I long for more.
His hands wander lower, tracing circles around my navel with his fingers before he reaches my waist. His touch is gentle but firm, stroking my skin and setting my nerve endings aflame. I’m lost in sensation as he slides his hands up and down my body, exploring every curve and driving me to the brink of pleasure.