Niall (Vigilance 2)

I didn’t sleep. I ran my hands over him, enjoying the chance to explore and focus on how beautiful Niall was. At least if I concentrated on him, I wouldn’t think about what an enormous mistake I’d just made. I’d wanted to see how far I could push him, but in doing so, I’d put myself in danger. I’d known I would enjoy taking charge with him. I’d known I would get a thrill out of dominating him and breaking down his arrogance, but I hadn’t known how much I would feel watching him come apart and accepting his own pleasure. I hadn’t been prepared for the tender feelings that warmed my chest as I lay there with him. Those feelings were utterly unwelcome.

When this mission was over, nothing would continue between us. Back in the real world, we’d resume our hatred of each other. We might work together again, but not like this. I needed to remember not to let myself get too invested.

How was I supposed to do that when I needed to protect him? He’d be angry if I said that, but I’d seen the vulnerability. I didn’t doubt he was an excellent agent. A man like X didn’t work with anyone less than stellar, but whatever had happened the last time Niall had been undercover had fucked him up. I needed to make sure that didn’t compromise him now.

An hour later, after showers and snacks, Niall and I headed for the pool. He was wearing the blue Speedo. He’d put it on without any prompting. I wanted to kiss him as a reward, but something held me back—fear I was falling for him, maybe?

He wore a white cover-up that was essentially see-through, but I could tell he felt better not being so exposed. I knew Arlington would expect me to enjoy parading Niall around, but part of me didn’t want anyone else to see him. I wanted that scrap of a suit to be for me and me alone, but I couldn’t let myself think like that when I wasn’t acting. The problem was those lines were already blurring.

My black swim trunks were not nearly as revealing as Niall’s swimwear, but I saw him watching me, and I liked it.

Arlington and the rest of the party arrived not long after we’d settled at a table by the pool with water to keep us hydrated and cocktails to give the right appearance. A few of the cats were sunning themselves, but none of them approached us.

“Mr. Ricci,” Arlington called across the pool deck. “I see you made it safely.”

I waved to him. “We did.”

“I’m so glad you could join us. I think you’ll be well amused by my little island.”

I gave him a huge smile. “I already am.”

“Do introduce me to your charming companion.” Arlington looked Niall up and down, and I wanted to wrap Niall up in one of his FBI suits. I did not like the hungry look on Arlington’s face. I hoped like hell I got a chance to punch the shit out of him before all this was over.

“This is Niall. He used to work for me, but I found I enjoyed it much more when he was simply a companion rather than an employee.” We’d decided our cover story was that Niall had been part of my household staff.

“I can see why.”

Niall gave him a simpering smile and held out his hand. Arlington wrapped it in both of his and held it for much too long.

When he let go, Niall eased back in his chair, stretching his legs out and making sure his cover-up fell open, exposing himself. He was like a completely different man, and damn if I could keep from staring. “I am so very glad you’ve joined us, Niall,” Arlington cooed.

I met Arlington’s gaze. “Look all you want, but I don’t share.”

“You like things exclusive?” he asked, brow arched.

“I like my men to be exclusively mine.” I didn’t think these men would respect anyone who adhered to monogamy.

“I see.” Arlington gave a condescending smile. “We’ll see if we can change your mind during the week. We have a lot of fun activities planned.”

“I won’t change my mind about Niall, but I’m looking forward to the week and to hearing more about your business proposition.”

“Yes, we’ll talk business when we have some time alone.” Arlington glanced at Niall.

“If you want to talk now, I’m sure Niall can find a way to amuse himself, or he can rest up in the suite so he’ll be energized for tonight.”

Niall didn’t even flinch. Damn, he was good. I’d thought I’d have to say Niall was shy, but he was pulling off his role admirably. He was a professional. I’d known that, but seeing him in action with Arlington was so different than when it was the two of us.