Layers(62)

“You can count on it. Let’s go, baby.”





Chapter 24: At The Depths of A-1


Securing my hand in his, Daniel guides us to the ramp coming out of a parked red and white aircraft.

“Here.” He gestures for me to climb in first, following behind, holding me by the waist. “Love the view,” he whispers in my ear, gently slapping my butt, making me jump in parallel to sparking a sweet ache deep in me.

“To the left please. Third row on the right.” An elderly, beautiful flight attendant in a Virgin uniform shows us to our seats.

“My name is Beverly and I will be your flight attendant for today. Welcome back, Mr. Stark.” She flashes a bright red smile, appraising Daniel in a disturbing way.

Daniel nods; impassive to her gaze, he links his hand in mine and steers us toward the designated seats.

“Window or aisle, ma’am?” he asks playfully as we reach our row.

“Window,” I smirk back at him.

“After you.” He waits for me to take my seat. Settling in, laid back, he takes my hand and brings it to his mouth. He takes his time kissing the tips of my fingers, providing attention to each finger individually. I look around, admiring the luxurious surroundings, surprised at the posh, spacious interior.

“Penny for your thoughts.” Daniel studies me closely.

“Just, all of this.” I gesture my free hand toward the cabin.

“What about it?” His eyes taper slightly, questioning.

“It’s my first in first.” I simper, feeling somewhat timid.

“Just more comfortable and private,” he mutters casually, and shrugs. Should I be offering to pay for my part? I’m disturbed at the thought, knowing it would severely hurt my budget.

“What’s bothering you, baby?” He presses his thumb at the furrowed spot between my eyebrows, and gently rubs it to soothe.

“Just … mmm, it’s a bit too much. I should be paying for my ticket.” I say, determined, inwardly cringing at the thought.

He observes me for a long second, his eyes a shade somber. “I’ve got it covered. I was the one who invited you.” He sighs in frustration. “Let’s not talk about it anymore.” His look says, ‘end of discussion’.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the Captain has turned on the fasten seat belt sign. If you haven’t already done so, please stow your carry-on luggage underneath the seat in front of you or in an overhead bin. Please take your seat and fasten your seat belt. And also make sure your seat back and folding trays are in their full upright position.” The in-flight announcement blends with the fuss of passengers getting situated.

“Beverly seemed glad to see you, Mr. Stark,” I say teasingly, trying to change the subject. He rolls his eyes and proceeds to work on my left hand, starting with my pinky this time.

“You really want to go there?” he murmurs to the tip of my finger, studying it attentively.

“Meaning?” Curious, I observe him.

“That f**ker, David, sounded eager for some additional tributes,” he states dryly.

Oh, that there, D. Is this still an issue? Wait a second, why is he bringing that up now? Does it mean him and Mrs. Geriatric Red Lips here have been doing the wild thing? I am revolted at the thought.

“Are you implying … did you and … did you two?” I stammer pathetically, trying to ask my question but not exactly succeeding.

“Miss Grace.” He beams at me impishly. “You seemed so much more coherent a minute ago! Have you lost your words? Do you need a moment?” He chuckles, turning to suck my middle finger, this time way too sensually, biting it gently as he pulls it out of his mouth.

“No, we haven’t,” he confirms lazily. His grin widens at my embarrassingly noticeable relief.

“Were you just jealous now, Hales?” Daniel teases, smirking from ear to ear.

Yes, I most certainly was!

“I like you jealous,” he adds, his amusement unmistakably growing.

“No, not at all. Just thought you could do better.” I raise my chin decisively and smile.

“Oh,” he chuckles. “Oh, I am doing much. Much better. Matter of fact I would really like to do my much better right here and now.”

I observe his fervent with a pinch of sin expression for an energy-charged moment, and bite my lip. With my pulse raising a notch, I grab the lapel of his shirt and pull him to my eagerly-awaiting mouth. There are sparks flying from the intensity of the encounter of our tongues colliding, tracing alongside each other, crazed. Daniel’s body is gradually pressed more firmly against mine, and I draw toward him as our kiss deepens. A rush of desire covers me; I need to gather all my willpower to stop myself from jumping on him.

“I’m taking you to the bathroom soon,” he murmurs hoarsely to my mouth. Always the gentleman. Sliding his hand under my breast, he strokes its side with his thumb. I feel it swell in response. Realizing our breaths and gasps have become far too noticeable, I pull back a little. Daniel, flushed, tilts his head in question, observing me mildly annoyed.

“We’re making an X-rated scene …” I whisper, glancing pointedly at the seats around us, still breathing hard.

But Daniel’s still on-target; he yanks his buckle open. “Come, Hales,” he gasps, taking my hand as he starts to stand up. Come Hales. I smile to myself at the double entendre.