“There are so many people.”
“After it’s over, we’re going somewhere, just the two of us. I want to show you something.”
“Already saw that today.”
Blake narrows his eyes, and I can’t wait for his comeback. Would it be witty, sexy, both? He surprises me by not saying anything, instead pulling me behind a black panel. From the cables and tools strewn on the floor, I suspect this is a backstage of sorts for the technical team, which is not here at the moment. Blake either knew this or suspected it, because he leans into me like a man with a plan. He kisses my neck, biting me gently. We’re shielded from everyone’s view, but still. This man has no shame, or mercy. And I love every second of this, even though I shouldn’t.
“Blake!” I intended to work severity into my tone, but it sounds wanton even to my own ears. “You can’t touch me like that in public.”
“Keep talking like that and I’ll kiss you against this wall, just so you know who’s in charge.”
“Is it bad that now I’m thinking of ways to provoke you?” I lick my lips, shaking my head.
Blake steps back. “I’m making an effort here.”
I wiggle my eyebrows. “This is what makes it more fun.”
He’s reckless, but hot damn, whenever I’m with him, I want to throw caution to the wind.
“Come on. Let’s sit before I do something crazy like throwing you over my shoulder and walking out of here.”
Taking my hand, he leads us back into the room. If possible, the place seems even fuller than a few minutes ago.
For the first time, I focus on the people and not the decor. All men are wearing suits, and the women have exquisite dresses. As is always the case with such events, I feel out of my depth. It’s not that I feel inferior to everyone else, because I don’t. But I just feel like I don’t belong, like this is all just make-believe. In a way, it is.
We walk up to one of the tables nearest to the runway, where Christopher, Max, Daniel, and Logan are sitting. There are two empty chairs. The brothers look up, and their reactions when they see me are almost comic. Daniel and Logan mask their surprise more skillfully, only a slight jerk of their head giving them away. Christopher and Max—I can’t tell who’s who—rise in unison. One claps his hands; the other opens his arms wide, as if thanking the skies. I can tell they’re about to roast Blake. I’ve been around the family often enough to know the dynamics. But I never can tell how they’ll choose to torment Blake, and I dearly wish I could pick up on it faster so I can join in on the fun.
“I never thought I’d see this day,” one of the twins says. I make a concerted effort to tell which one he is. Judging by the way he winks, and the cocky smirk, it must be Christopher. I have a fifty percent chance of being right.
“Watch it, Max,” Blake warns. Okay, so I failed one hundred percent.
“Clara, please give us the rundown. Is he treating you well? Should we kick his ass?” the actual Christopher asks.
“Or give him pointers?” Max adds.
“Anything you two want to add?” Blake points at Daniel and Logan.
Logan drums his fingers on the table, narrowing his eyes in mock concentration. Then he perks up, as if he has the right answer. “No, I think Max and Christopher about covered the range of scenarios.”
Daniel flashes a grin, pointing with his thumb at Logan. “I agree with him.”
“I’ll have you know he’s being a swoon-worthy gentleman.”
Logan cocks a brow. Next to me, Blake nods.
“He bought my favorite flowers and planted them on the balcony.”
Christopher and Max both feign shock. Teasing is an art in this family. I can only hope I’ll be as good one day.
“‘Atta-boy,” Logan exclaims.
“I think he’s giving all of you a run for your money in the charming department,” I add for effect. The brothers look slightly affronted at this, and Blake smiles proudly. Too proudly. Hmm, my wicked side rears its head. Having Blake’s back is good. Riling him up is even better.
“But he’s also very inappropriate.”
He cocks a brow at me. “You’ll pay for this.”
“I’m looking forward to it.”