Page 40 of Eternal Craving

She nodded, staring off into the distance, as though lost in thought. “I have friends in the senate who’ll watch out for Salvador.”

“I’m in your debt,” I said, strolling behind her.

She was breathing faster now, and I noticed her embroidered laced-up bodice appeared confining, designed to restrict her desires, it seemed. I imagined that as each ribbon loosened, so would her passion.

“I’m going to walk away now,” I whispered, close to her ear. “Forgive me, but you know why.” I reached up and caressed the fine, blond hair on her nape, and she shivered beneath my touch.

Although the evening was unfolding as planned, I recognized the illusion of this inner stillness. Rippling sensations of pleasure almost convinced me to take her as she let out a deep sigh.

But I turned and sauntered away.

Chapter Seventeen

The Morans’ butler asked me to wait in the foyer. This time, though, he respectfully offered me mulled wine before leaving to fetch his master.

Instead of waiting, I headed up the staircase to look for Salvador myself. Several months had passed since my dinner party and Salvador had returned the favor and extended an invitation to dine at his father’s home. With his family out of town, our privacy was assured. He’d taken up his appointment as aide-de-camp at the senatorial residence, and I looked forward to questioning him. This visit promised to be interesting on all levels.

The great house had been restored to its former glory after a recent royal visit inspired a refurbishment. Whitewashed walls loomed resplendent.

I caught the butler’s disapproving glare from the base of the stairs and threw him a big smile. He quick-footed it out of sight.

Salvador greeted me halfway along the passageway. His expression was difficult to read.

“You never told me you had a sister.” He frowned playfully.

Pausing, I tried to remain calm. “How is she?”

“Why don’t you ask her yourself?” He pointed to the end of the hallway.

I hesitated.

“She’s been looking forward to seeing you,” he said.

I clutched Salvador’s arm and guided him along the corridor. “What’s she doing here?”

“I had to get her out.” He rested his hand over mine. “She’s not going back.”

“What happened?”

“Felipe was beating her.”

I stopped walking and stared off down the hallway.

He looked over at me. “What’s wrong?”

“You’re both in danger. Felipe will come after you.”

“Maybe.”

“You can’t stay here.” I glanced at him, trying to ignore my badgering conscience that said all this was happening because of me.

But Alicia was safe now.

“Salvador, there’s something I have to tell you…”

“I think I know.” His expression was kind. “But go on.”

My heart ached that I might lose a friend by revealing the truth.