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“What’s going on outside?”

“Nothing you should concern yourself with.”

“I’m beginning to hate surprises.”

“Why?”

“Because you always do them for me, and I don’t do them for you.”

“You can.”

“Not to the extravagance you do.”

Oliver eyed me as I removed my towel and went into the closet naked. I dug through my duffel bag, finding a burgundy bra and thong set. I slipped the body-hugging black dress Oliver got me over my head and adjusted the hem. It was short and accentuated my breasts.

When I came out, Oliver couldn’t take his gaze off me. I saw him in the mirror while I applied a light layer of makeup, finishing with some bubble gum lip gloss. I put my hair in a ponytail and wound it into a loose bun, so it was off my neck.

“How do I look?”

“Good enough to eat.”

“What do you have going on outside?” I asked again.

He gave me a mischievous smile. “Wait and see.”

“Now?”

“Now.”

He rose from the bed and opened the drapes. I could see a table set with a white linen cloth and two place settings. A waiter in a black uniform stood next to a raised bucket holding a bottle of champagne.

“For me?”

“Well for us. I’ll be eating too.”

I went to him claiming his lips in a hard kiss. He licked his after I pulled away. “Mmm, bubble gum.”

Oliver pulled open the slider and led me out. I had neglected to put on shoes

but it didn’t matter. The patio was warm from the summer sun.

After a meal of arugula salad, filet mignon with asparagus and Dutchess potatoes, I was stuffed. Oliver had the meal cooked and catered by the same chef who made us breakfast. I leaned back in my chair as Oliver sipped champagne.

“Full?” he asked.

“Yes. That was so good,” I said, rubbing my tummy.

“Anything for my bride.”

“I could get used to this. You’re spoiling me.”

“Don’t fault me for wanting to make you happy.”

“I’m happy without the spoiling. I have you.”

“For the rest of your life,” he added.

I reached over and stroked his hand. I loved Oliver’s hands. They were perfect, soft and he got his nails manicured once a week. What’s more, I loved when he put them on me.