Sheikh's Bed (Complete)

Chapter 16

The grass crushed under her feet with each step as they padded along the manicured lawn. Out in the distance, she could see torches that outlined the property.

Karen held tightly to Tamir's hand as he led her down the side of the mansion and they slipped between a small space that separated the two buildings.

He stilled her, resting both hands on her shoulders before putting a finger to her lips, anticipating she would say something.

A few minutes later, they heard running.

Her heart accelerated at the sound. She was too afraid to look back and Tamir's deep red tunic engulfed her vision. It all reminded her of when they were running in Marrakesh. Even though the situation didn't feel quite as perilous, she still felt the adrenaline. It combined with the heat with her that blossomed from his nearness. Her body truly didn't care what was going on.

After a moment, he took her hand and jutted his head in the opposite direction.

They emerged on the other side of the building that had a view of the ocean and the lights from the city burning like gold on the coast.

She had no idea if Tamir knew the layout of the property or if he was going on instinct, but she trusted him to keep her safe.

Always.

A small door that easily went unnoticed by her was opened by Tamir. She thought she saw a set of steps and realized she was right when he pulled her inside.

The stairs twisted up until they were on at the top of a round tower that overlooked the entire property out over the Mediterranean.

From their obscure perch, she could see Sulia and Dira running along the lawn, shouting in Arabic at the men.

"Do you think they'll guess we're up here?" she asked.

"No."

Feeling cool from the ocean breeze, Karen folded her upper arms. "We really have a knack for finding trouble."

"Do not worry. They have all of Monte Carlo that they can search through the night."

Karen took a breath. This night had taken quite an unexpected turn.

Tamir leaned against the wall of the tower. "I am grateful that you won me. Dira seemed very aggressive."

Karen silently agreed. "I wouldn't try it a second time."

"Then I am wounded."

She shook her head slightly, trying to keep the smile off her face. "Why?"

"Because I believe we should always fight for what we want."

She was lying, but she wasn't sure if he knew it. She would probably fight Dira and Sulia if she had to for him. And she could have told him that.

Instead, she lifted her face and in less than a breath, his mouth was on hers.

His lips were soft as well as the clipped beard that grazed her top lip and chin.

The kiss wasn't forceful; it was a blatant sensual caress that drowned her senses.

Tamir pulled away, as if the touch had been a test for her. To see if she still felt anything for him.

"I ap-"

She pulled him down to her again, pressing his mouth hard against hers, smothering his apology.

Tamir didn't hold back, pulling her body to his easily by her hips.

The touch of his mouth felt like home.