happened over the last seven days had been blinding, leaving his family in shambles and his business in need of reorganization.
Making him even more of a shell.
I’d also learned that Rafael Santiago was a true leader, dangerous and ruthless, but even under his coat of steel, he did have a heart buried under his brawn and muscle. If only he would allow me inside.
I’d seen his huge heart in action not only once but twice in saving both his brother’s and his enforcer’s lives, though there’d been directives put in place. No one was to ever talk about what had occurred again. I had no idea what their fate would be and in truth, I didn’t want to know. I realized just how cruel the Galicia mafia could be by hearing only a few stories. However, Rafael had been devastated by the loss of both of his brothers in entirely different ways.
At least Dartanian had called down his soldiers, preventing a significant loss of life. That had been the last piece of business that Rafael had shared. Now we were simply spending time together at the A Coruna beach house, days taking walks and exploring the various tourist attractions. Nights were all about passion.
But he never talked, had never said even once that he loved me. He was still a shell of a man, one incapable of letting go. Still, as he’d held me in his arms, I’d been able to see the love in his eyes. But honestly, that wasn’t enough. I couldn’t just be his possession.
He’s also never mentioned a word about my stepfather again although I’d asked more than once. I had a terrible feeling that I knew exactly what he’d done, his connections in the United States just as powerful. I wasn’t certain how to handle the news once I found out.
He lowered his head, taking several deep breaths before capturing my mouth. The weight of the world would always be on his shoulders, but at least he lost himself in the glory of our togetherness.
I had no idea how I was going to say goodbye.
As he fisted my hair, holding me in place, he pushed his tongue past my lips. I could taste the hint of scotch, even a touch of cinnamon and all I could think about was surrendering to his every need.
I wiggled in his hold, luxuriating in the feel of his throbbing cock, my mouth watering at the thought of having him inside of me, filling me. He dominated my tongue, sweeping his over mine like a wild animal devouring its prey. I was completely aroused, my nipples aching and my panties already soaked. I knew if he hadn’t been holding me that I wouldn’t be able to stand without swaying.
He had that kind of hold over me.
Hypnotic.
Possessive.
As the kiss continued, I felt the rapid beating of his heart, could feel the flex of his muscles as he remained tense. Even in his sleep he never seemed to relax, always worried about the next level of opposition or another betrayal that he’d be forced to deal with. I couldn’t imagine what he was going through.
And I couldn’t live the rest of my life in the shadow of his fear. At least I had an excuse for staying in the country, enjoying his attention. I would honor my aunt by keeping her galleria running. I’d truly learned the meaning of the word loyalty during the last few days.
He gently pushed me away with a low and husky growl before tossing me over his shoulder. “Time for that spanking.”
“No!” I exclaimed, laughing as he took long strides in the direction of the house. Even though I pummeled my fists against him, it didn’t seem to have any effect. He was big and strong, refusing to fall into my temptress ways.
He took the stairs two at a time, moving quickly toward the back door, yanking open the slider with ease. When he walked me into the kitchen, I was surprised but even more so seeing the array of implements positioned on the counter. I gulped, realizing that he was serious about the harsh spanking.
Maybe I did deserve one but oh, my God. There were paddles and wooden spoons, the bath brush I’d come to hate, two different straps, and his thick black belt curled like a snake. There was also a cane and a switch of some kind positioned just so.
As he eased me down onto my feet, I groaned, backing away. He lifted a