And I wish your hands were stroking my—
“I booked The Great Escape for the evening, so we can watch the sunset from the comfort of a luxury yacht,” he continued. “Demi, let’s go. Adventure awaits.”
Demi stared at him with wide eyes, wondering how he’d pulled off the surprise without her knowing. They’d been practically joined at the hip since they’d left the hotel but before she could question Chase about how he’d arranged the private tour, the captain exited the vessel, speaking in a booming voice.
Introducing himself, he clasped her hands and shook them vigorously. “You’re going to have the greatest time of your life,” he vowed, flashing a gummy smile. “I hope you like champagne because I have Dom Pérignon Rosé on board!”
Captain Teo spun around, beckoned them to follow him, and marched onto the yacht. Spanish music was playing on the sound system and the slow, sultry love song made Demi think about kissing Chase—and more. Intelligent, sincere and charming, he was the kind of guy women swooned over and exploring Ibiza Town with him was a thrilling adventure. Rich in history and culture, Ibiza was paradise on earth, a favorite vacation spot among celebrities and jet-setters, and Demi loved everything about the small, picturesque island.
“Welcome to The Great Escape!” said a female voice with a French accent. “I’ll be your steward tonight. I look forward to serving you.”
The brunette, in a fitted black dress, held a gold-rimmed tray filled with cocktails and appetizers. A heady aroma sweetened the air, but Demi wasn’t hungry. Still full from lunch, she politely declined the offer and moved to the rear of the boat to admire the view.
“Come on,” Chase urged, coming up behind her. “You have to eat something.”
“I can’t. I overdid it at the tapas restaurant and my waistline can’t handle any more rich meals, decadent desserts and tropical drinks.”
“Demi, you’re in Ibiza. Indulge in everything the island has to offer.”
Really? Then why are you playing it safe? she wondered, wishing Chase would take his own advice. He had a knack for making her laugh, for making her feel desirable and sexy, and Demi wanted to experience the pleasure of his kiss.
“I heard the sunset cruise is second to none, and I want you to experience everything The Great Escape has to offer, so drink and eat as much as you want. It’s on me.”
“It should be on me. It’s your birthday, not mine.”
“Don’t worry, Demi. We’ll have plenty of time to celebrate later in my suite.”
“Someone’s confident,” she said, raising an eyebrow.
Water taxis and Jet Skiers cruised past the dock, and swimmers frolicked in the turquoise water, laughing hysterically. Ignoring the world around her, Demi raised her voice to be heard over the noise and moved closer to him. Met his dark, smoldering gaze. He was flirting with her, slowly caressing her shoulders, and Demi loved every minute of it.
“What makes you think I’m going to your hotel suite later? Did it ever occur to you that I might have plans with someone else once I leave Ibiza Town?”
“No, never, why would you when you could spend the rest of the night with me? In case you haven’t noticed, I’m one hell of a guy.”
Demi whistled. “Wow, with an ego that big, it’s a wonder you can keep your head up!”
“I’m not conceited. I’m confident,” he whispered against her ear. “There’s a big difference.”
A shiver raced down her spine. Demi wanted to speak, but she was so turned on by the sound of his voice that she couldn’t free the words from her mouth.
“Go big or go home isn’t just my mantra. It’s a way of life.” Chase wore a broad grin. “I want you, Demi, and I’m going to have you before the night is over.”
Chapter 5
Blinking uncontrollably, Demi closed her gaping mouth. Did he just say what I think he did? she wondered, needing a moment to collect her thoughts. Standing as still as a statue, she gazed deep into his eyes. They were filled with mischief, bright and piercing, and the longer Demi stared at him the harder her limbs quivered. It took everything in her not to pounce on him, but she kept her hands at her sides and off his chest. Fantasizing about kissing him, Demi moaned inwardly at the thought of finally tasting his lips. He desired her. It was evident in everything he’d said and done during their sightseeing excursion. So what was he waiting for?
Frowning, Chase reached into the back pocket of his shorts, took out his cell phone and glanced at the screen. “I have to take this call,” he said with an apologetic smile. “Captain Teo, can you give Demi a tour of The Great Escape while I check in with my COO?”
Captain Teo nodded. Sidling up to her, he spoke in a husky voice. “Nothing like spending time with a young, scintillating woman to make an old man feel spry again.”
Old is the right word, Demi thought, resisting the urge to plug her nose. He smelled like an ashtray and the putrid scent made her eyes itch and burn. He led her through the lounge space, past the observation deck and into the enclosed command center on the lower deck.
“How long have you two kids been dating?”
“We’re not a couple. We met last night.”
“So you’re single?” Salivating all over his crisp white uniform, Captain Teo dropped his gaze from her eyes to her cleavage. “I finish at midnight. We should hook up later.”