Page 55 of Watching Her

“Stalking?” Could she tell my cock was almost fully aroused? “Such a harsh word.”

“I’m certain given your powerful aura you have plenty of women who do. While sexy in books, the practice is annoying in real life.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “From time to time I have my share of women who invade my privacy and stalking does have a twisted sense of dark excitement some people find exciting.”

The shimmer in her eyes indicated she was someone who did.

“What a shame I’m not rich. Therefore, you would find me boring.”

“There is nothing boring about you, Penelope. Quite the opposite.”

“Well, while it would be nice to have money, I’m perfectly capable of making my way in the world. Even if it might take me a little longer than I’d originally hoped. The question stands. Are you worried your paintings will be considered a weakness?”

I lifted my glass in both appreciation and respect. “Touché, Penelope. And please call me Christian. If a round of hot coffee doesn’t put us on a first-name basis, then perhaps nothing would.”

“Fair enough. As long as you answer the question.”

“You play hard ball. I like that. I’ll let you in on a little secret. You are correct in that there are plenty of my enemies who would enjoy using my erotic style artistry as a ploy to win bids on various pieces of real estate I’m interested in. But that’s child’s play for me. I have to satisfy an endless dark passion that even sex can’t fulfill.”

Did she know the filthy thoughts I had, the desire to fuck her right here in front of everyone?

My answer was honest, more so than I’d ever given anyone.

She darted her tongue across her bottom lip. “Why not sports to ease the… pain?”

“I’ve played hockey, basketball, even taken up boxing. Very little satisfies me. Only painting, and women who understand my needs are entirely different than most.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, it is. I hope you’re pleased with the painting. It’s a favorite piece of mine.”

“It’s stunning and I love it.”

“Good. Now, how about that dance?”

She took a deep breath while keeping her eyes locked onto mine. “While I very much enjoy dancing, for tonight I would prefer getting to know you. Much better.”

As my balls tightened, the predator breached the surface. “Then come with me.”

I wasn’t about to tell her that as of now, there was no turning back.

CHAPTER 13

Penelope

Christian Tempest.

A powerbroker.

A player.

A highly intelligent, sophisticated businessman.

He’d been called many things within the hospitality industry.

He was also a man not to be questioned, ruthless in every endeavor. Now a question lingered in my mind. Should I consider him a true predator?

A tingle of excitement swept through me, a delicate balance of believing he’d been stalking me over the last three weeks and wondering if I was losing my mind.