The billionaire's baby bargain

Chapter 3

Andrés stared down into her wide eyes, fascinated by the flecks of amber in their brown depths. The hint of exhaustion in her stare made it clear she’d worked a long day, and yet still she was stunning. The white button-up blouse she wore hugged the curve of her breasts, while the black skirt encased her round bottom and clung to trim thighs before ending just above her knees. Her hair was pinned up in a blonde coif, severe and sexy, with not one tendril granted permission to escape. He could well imagine her downstairs, serving the guests at his resort, perhaps flirting her way into their favor and larger tips the way he’d noticed some of the waitresses doing. Jealousy stabbed through him. “When do you finish your shift?” “Six,” she replied breathlessly. “I shouldn’t be here. I didn’t realize… Just who are you, Andrés?” Did she truly not know? He narrowed his eyes and searched her face for any signs that she might be lying. But there was nothing there other than the refreshing mix of wariness and reluctant interest. “I am a guest here,” he finally answered with a half-truth, and moved his palm down to the small of her back, pressing their bodies more intimately together. Chloe’s eyelashes fluttered downward and she said desolately, “Oh, Andrés…that’s exactly why I can’t become involved with you.” Andrés stilled but was careful not to let the surprise show on his face. “I won’t let myself become caught up with guests of the hotel,” she continued. “It can only lead to trouble, and I need this job to stay in Spain.” “Your job will not be at risk, cariño.” She gave a skeptical laugh and shook her head. “You may be staying in the penthouse, but I hardly think that gives you the power to save my job if it came into question.” Now it was his turn to laugh, but he did so silently. So it was true. Chloe genuinely had no idea who he was. The discovery was such a novelty that it sent a thrill of wonder through him. Somehow he’d stumbled upon one of the few women in Spain—who worked for him, nonetheless—who had no clue of his true identity. This was a woman who, for once, didn’t want him for his immense fortune or social status, but instead because of a random, passionate encounter on the beach. She wasn’t looking to get close to him, dig up dirt and sell a story to the tabloids for a few bucks. His decision not to use a contract for Chloe to become his lover seemed even more justified. And she would become his lover tonight. Perhaps one night would be all it took to divest this feverish need for her in his blood. “Spend the evening with me,” he commanded, and gave a gentle, coaxing smile. “I will find somewhere else to stay, if you’d like, so there is no…conflict of interest, shall we say?” Her eyes rounded with shock. “You’d leave the resort? Just so—” “Chloe, I want you.” He lifted her hand to his mouth and turned it over, palm side up. Then he brushed his lips over the frantically beating pulse on her inner wrist. “And I will do whatever it takes to have you. If my being a guest here is a problem, then I will leave.” Disbelief flickered in her eyes, then finally pleasure. He saw her pupils dilate, heard the catch in her breath; they were the signs of a woman growing aroused. She wanted him. She was so close to capitulating. His blood surged and desire stirred in his loins. He nipped at the soft flesh of her wrist. “I will do anything.” He just barely stopped himself from uttering the words name your price, knowing it would annihilate any chance he had of swaying her. For Chloe, he suspected, it would never be about the money. And he would do well to remember she could not be approached with the same calculations of a business negotiation. But he’d meant it—there weren’t many lengths he wouldn’t go to in order to have her in his bed. She ran her tongue over her bottom lip and groaned. “I don’t know. I keep thinking—” “That is the problem. You are thinking with your head instead of your heart,” he murmured huskily, scarcely believing the words had come from him. He was by no means a romantic, and was hardly one to follow his own advice. Every decision he made was carefully weighed and considered using logic. But his words proved to be the tipping point for Chloe. Her body softened against him and the hesitancy slipped from her eyes. Something flickered in her stare. Something that said Chloe was a romantic, and his words about using her heart had surreptitiously manipulated her into agreeing. His gut twisted, but any guilt he had was vanquished when she gave a slow nod. “You don’t need to move to another hotel, Andrés. I’ll say yes regardless,” she said quietly. “I can’t leave you again tonight. I already regret leaving you last night.” A thrill of triumph rocketed through his blood at her acknowledgement and he tugged her hard against him. Her soft cry of surprise faded into a sigh when he nuzzled her neck, inhaling the scent of her jasmine perfume and the essence of her. Of Chloe. Dios, she tempted him like no woman ever had. And soon she would be his. “Let me make love to you, cariño.” He kissed the furiously beating pulse in her neck. When he lifted his head to stare down at her, her gaze was full of passion and trust. “Yes,” she agreed, and lifted her arms around his neck. “Please, Andrés. I want you so much.” It was the only acquiescence he needed before he drove her lips apart with his own to satisfy the savage hunger inside him. Please don’t let this be a mistake, Chloe thought, leaning into Andrés and surrendering to the pleasure of the moment. Kissing him back with a fervor that left her breathless. She was swept off her feet, literally and emotionally, when he lifted her into his arms and carried her toward the bedroom. Perhaps she was a fool, but something deep inside her was begging to take this risk. To gamble with her heart and delve into this explosive passion between them. It all just seemed so right. She was in Spain, being seduced by a man who could make her tremble with want from just a look. For the first time in her life she desired a man with a force that almost terrified her. The idea of walking away now, of telling him no again, left her chilled and had her stomach knotting. No regrets. It was her motto in life and it had also been the theme in the diary. Her body hummed with excitement as he laid her atop the plush bedding in his room. He reached for the first buttons on her blouse with a dark, sensual promise in his eyes. Chloe shivered with anticipation, wanting his mouth on hers. She craved his mouth and hands on her body—the weight of him on top of her. She wanted him and everything about him. She was alive with the moment, had thrown herself into it entirely. “I want you,” she said, and then blurted honestly, “more than I’ve ever wanted anyone. You go to my head in the most dangerous way.” He paused, his finger stilling on a button on her blouse, to lift his head and look down at her. She knew her words had pleased him. His mouth curved almost into a smile, while his gaze held a seductive mixture of triumph, possessiveness, and raw desire. “Show me,” he said softly, taking her hand and placing it upon his chest. Emboldened by his challenge, Chloe sat up on the bed on her knees so that they faced each other. Running her tongue over her lips, she gripped the soft cotton of his shirt and worked it up and over his body. The revelation had her inhaling swiftly. Darkly golden skin covered the firm ridges and muscles of his chest. His n*****s were brown disks of temptation. Remembering the pleasure that his mouth had given to her, she wanted to return the treatment. She leaned forward and pressed a light kiss to one n****e; watched it tighten. His following hiss of pleasure told her she’d done something right. Letting her hand explore the contours of his chest, she moved her lips to the other n****e and repeated the treatment. “Basta,” he growled and gripped her shoulders, lifting her away. “I changed my mind.” Andrés realized his hands were less than steady when he reached to undo her perfectly styled hair. He wanted those curls free to touch. To see them spilled across his pillow when the time came. Vixen. She was quite skilled in her touch and knew just how to drive him to the brink of madness. Her eyes burned with passion as he freed the coif, threading his fingers through the soft strands so they hung over her shoulders. He followed one tendril down to where her blouse was only partially unbuttoned and the fabric gaped. The tops of her creamy breasts were exposed over a white satin and lace bra. “So beautiful,” he murmured, and drew the pad of his thumb over one pale curve. He smiled at the resulting shiver that took her body; reveled in the soft groan spilling from her lips while she swayed toward him. “Please. Now, Andrés, I need you.” Her throaty plea ignited him, snapped any control he had left. Grabbing the edges of her blouse, he jerked them apart, sending buttons flying—knowing it could be easily replaced. With practiced ease, he shed her shirt from her and then unfastened her bra, tossing it aside. Her full breasts spilled into his waiting hands and he made a murmur of appreciation. Andrés crushed her mouth beneath his again, delving his tongue deep to claim hers while he thumbed the tips of her soft mounds. She was a fire in his blood, consuming him and burning up any ability to think rationally. But rational thought did not matter right now. Nothing mattered but having her in his arms, in his bed and, in moments, being inside her. Claiming her. Easing Chloe back onto the mattress, Andrés followed her with his body. He caught one succulent, pink n****e in his mouth while he used a hand to slide up her smooth thigh, cupping the heat of her core through silky panties. Beneath him, Chloe arched, and he caught her cry of excitement with his kiss. He worked a finger beneath the thin fabric to discover the hidden slick folds. His blood pounded through his veins at the evidence of her arousal, heightening his own desire, pushing him further toward the edge. Lifting his head, Andrés stared down at her. He worked a finger inside her tight channel, probing her slick center. Amazing. Her face pinched with ecstasy while she shuddered with sensation; her eyes squeezed shut. Beautiful. Her golden hair spilled across the black silk pillowcase of his bedding. Her head moved from side to side, little gasps spilling from her lush, parted lips. This was how he wanted her. Uninhibited. Submissive. Ready for his taking. He swept his thumb over the secret bud between her thighs. “Andrés.” Her body clenched around his finger. Basta. Her sweet cry ripped at his own control. It was too much, and yet it wasn’t enough. He needed her now. Andrés pulled her skirt and panties off and then shed the rest of his clothes. Spreading her thighs wide, he settled between them and buried himself in her with one smooth thrust. Her sweet body gripping him had a groan spilling from his lips. So hot and tight. This was surely nirvana. Chloe struggled to catch her breath. Pleasure as she’d never experienced encased her body. The sensation of Andrés filling her, stretching her, had every nerve tingling and on alert. She couldn’t help but dig her nails into his shoulders when he simply stayed buried within her. As if he, too, were overcome with the moment and he simply needed to let it sink in. But she wanted more. Couldn’t wait. She ran her tongue over her lips and lifted her hips experimentally. Andrés let out a hiss as he sank deeper into her. His gaze met hers, and the heat and possessiveness there made her insides melt and her body quiver. “Oh, how you please me, cariño,” he muttered and made a long, delicious stroke inside her. The sweet ache bloomed inside her once more, engulfing her and building in intensity with each powerful thrust he made. She moved her hands to his back, tracing her nails over his skin while matching the sensual rhythm he created. The pleasure built. Climbing higher and higher, spiraling to a place she’d only dreamed of going. She gasped as the sensation finally exploded, hurling her over that heavenly peak. She shuddered, clutching him and sobbing with ecstasy while he continued to plunge into her. A moment later he let out a shuddering groan. He reached his own release and then the weight of his body fell on top of her. When she could finally form a coherent thought, she became acutely aware of the weight of Andrés’s body pressing her into the softness of the mattress. A wave of shyness swept through her as the magnitude of what she’d just done hit. Andrés moved off her and onto his side, nuzzling her neck. He slid an arm around her waist. Butterflies fluttered in her belly; warmth slid from her head to her toes. Her pulse quickened and her throat tightened with emotion. This moment felt right. Completely natural. She was thankful she’d listened to her heart. Andrés was a tender and skillful lover, even when they’d both been fervent with passion. The lovemaking had been so intense and emotional. Where there seemed to be a connection between them that went far beyond the physical. Chloe stroked a hand through his hair and drew in an unsteady breath. Her heart squeezed. Andrés was a man she could fall in love with all too easily. “Chloe,” Andrés murmured against her breast. “Do you have any idea—dammit.” At his sudden curse she stiffened, wondering if she’d done something wrong. “What is it?” He lifted his head, disbelief flashing in his eyes. “I did not take precautions.” “Take precautions?” she parroted. His meaning sunk in and then her cheeks flamed. He hadn’t used protection. “Oh.” He swore softly in Spanish and moved from the bed. He paced the room, thrusting a hand through his hair. “I cannot believe this.” Chloe’s stomach sank and the exquisiteness of the moment deflated like a pinpricked balloon. She sat up in bed, drawing her knees up to her chest and wrapping her arms around them. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, her mind reeling at how quickly things had gone from magical to awkward. Wanting to ease some of his frustration, she said, “This is my fault too.” Something in her voice snapped him from his own agitated thoughts. He spun around and saw her, curled up almost defensively, and cursed himself. “Forgive me,” he muttered thickly, and moved back to the bed, drawing her once more into his arms. “This is not your fault, cariño.” He brushed his lips across her forehead in an effort to ease her worries, but could not completely eradicate his own. When he’d realized how careless he’d been, his entire world had come to a halt. He’d never—ever—made such a gigantic blunder. Memories of his own childhood, dark and painful, threatened to surface, but he shoved them ruthlessly back into the shadows of his soul. “Andrés,” she began hesitantly, lifting her head from his chest to look at him. Her cheeks were red and discomfort flashed in her eyes. “There’s probably no need to worry. A few years ago I was diagnosed with a condition…” She bit her lip and shook her head. “I’m sorry, it’s embarrassing to discuss, but what I’m trying to say is that when I do decide to have a child, it will likely be a challenge to conceive.” Andrés blinked, a bit taken aback at her bleak revelation. One that was obviously quite difficult for Chloe to make. His gut twisted for the sadness in her and he pressed a kiss against her forehead, tightening his arms around her. “Lo siento, cariño. I am sorry.” Yet at the same moment—and he knew it made him a bastard—some of the tension eased from his body at her admission. A child from his seed was never to be. Which was why he was usually meticulously careful. Except for tonight. Even with Chloe’s condition, he would use protection regardless when they made love in the future. He simply could not afford to take that risk. “I’m a fool,” he murmured, keeping his tone light. “Forgive my overreaction. I simply have never lost my head quite so quickly. You enchant me.” He lifted her chin, relieved to see the pained expression leave her eyes once more. He pressed a soft kiss across her swollen mouth, and her lashes fluttered down to shield her gaze, her body shivered against him once more. Andrés moved his mouth down her jaw line and onto the delicate curve between her neck and shoulder. Anointing the silky soft skin with soft kisses. Loving the soft mew of pleasure she made. He reveled in the way she squirmed beneath him, her breathing shifting in a clear sign that her excitement was mounting once more. His groin tightened and he closed his eyes, inhaling her scent. How was it possible he wanted her again so soon? Usually he made love to a woman and could last at least a day without touching her again. He moved from the bed, his mouth curving slightly at her cry of disappointment. A moment later he swept her naked body up into his arms. Chloe’s eyes widened. She looped her arms around his neck. “Where are we going?” “To bathe.” “But…but you just showered, I thought.” “Sí. I did,” he admitted and then gave her a look that he hoped conveyed his intent. Chloe’s head fell back against his shoulder. She laughed and stared up at him with sparkling eyes. “Oh. Well, then. Lead the way.” Andrés smiled, carrying her into the bathroom and kicking the door closed behind them. Chloe sat on the balcony, watching the glorious sunset from a lounge chair while she reflected on how surreal her evening had been. But the ache in her thighs was the only reminder she needed to know that this was, indeed, real. Every sensual, intense moment of it. Andrés had made love to her again in the massive sunken bathtub, only after bringing her pleasure by using his mouth on her most intimate place. Taking her to the brink of madness until she’d begged him to fill her again. Just the thought of how she’d come apart in his arms sent a warm shiver through her. Once again she could not help comparing what was happening between her and Andrés to the lovers in the diary. Of course she’d always hoped to someday find the same thing, but would fate really deliver such a strong coincidence? As if her thoughts had summoned him, Andrés strode out of the bedroom and headed for the balcony. She sat up quickly, having not heard him return to the suite. Just the sight of him sent her pulse racing and her knees weakening. “We’re going out,” he announced. “Really? Where?” “Dinner. Dancing.” He came to sit on the edge of her lounge chair and drew his thumb down her cheek, his stare turning intimate. “Wherever the night takes us. Does it matter?” Chloe’s pulse thudded. How could he make her quivery with just a look? She gave a slight shrug and fidgeted with the lapel of the resort’s silk bathrobe she wore. “No, of course it doesn’t. I’m enjoying being with you, Andrés. But I should probably go by my apartment to grab a change of clothes. I only have my uniform. Oh, but never mind. You ripped my shirt.” His lips curled faintly and he extended a hand to her. “Come.” She placed her hand in his and allowed him to pull her to her feet, following him back inside and to the bedroom. Frowning, she hurried after him, trying to consider what he was up to. Once in the bedroom she came to a halt behind him and followed his attention to the bed. A black cocktail dress lay across the comforter with a pair of black heels beside them. Casting him a quizzical look, she asked, “What’s this?” “They are for you. To wear out tonight.” The air locked in Chloe’s lungs and she blinked in disbelief. “You…bought these?” she croaked out. “For me?” “Sí. Of course.” His brows drew together. His tone feigning seriousness. “I’m afraid they will not fit me.” A disbelieving laugh gurgled from her chest. She shook her head. “But why? We could’ve just driven to my apartment and picked up—” “Because I wanted to. It is hardly a bother.” He slid his arms around her waist, pulling her against him. Then he brushed his mouth against hers in a short, but tantalizing kiss. “Because I saw the dress and imagined you in it.” Chloe’s eyes fluttered open from having closed during the kiss. Already her body heated in response to his touch. A man buying her clothes? It was mind-boggling. She lifted a hand to his cheek with a shy smile. “Andrés, I don’t know what to say. But…thank you.” She bit her lip, then blurted, “And I hope you didn’t pay too much for them.” He gave a soft laugh. Covering her hand with his own, he turned his head and pressed a kiss into her palm. “Of course I paid too much. I bought it in the shop downstairs.” Her eyes widened. She pulled away so fast she nearly tripped over her feet to get to the bed. “No,” she muttered, shaking her head. “Tell me you’re lying.” Amusement pricked at him to see her search the dress for price tags that had never existed. “Why would I lie? The dress will look lovely on you, Chloe.” She lifted her head, alarm remaining in her eyes. “But…but that shop is ludicrously expensive. And most of the clothing in it isn’t even that attractive.” “Indeed?” He c****d his head. He hadn’t really glanced through the items that intensely, but perhaps he should have. He made a mental note to meet with his buyer later on in the week to discuss the fashions in the shop. “Do you not like the dress, cariño?” He couldn’t resist teasing. Her cheeks turned scarlet. “No. Yes. Oh, I’m getting this all wrong. I love the dress, Andrés. Forgive me for making such a complete fool of myself. You must think me horribly rude.” “Actually, quite refreshing,” Andrés replied honestly with a brief smile. “However, I am getting hungry. If you would indulge me and—” “Of course.” She nodded quickly and reached with unsteady hands for her robe. “It’s just, I’ve never had anyone buy me something so utterly extravagant.” She’d better get used to it. The thought flickered through his mind unwanted. Surprising. Interesting, because that would imply longer than a few nights. The same hunger that always seemed to linger for her rose again when she fumbled with the ties on her robe. “Let me.” Her pupils dilated and he heard her breath catch. He deftly unfastened the knot that held the silk together. Once he eased the robe from her shoulders it slid in a whisper to the floor. She moved to cover herself, but he caught her hands, pulling them back so he could take a moment to drink in her sweet curves. “Let me look upon you for a moment, Chloe.” His gaze slid over her lush naked body and he gave a murmur of appreciation. “So beautiful. You are so very beautiful.” Andrés knew he was dangerously close to losing control and taking her again. Basta. It was insane how easily she went to his head. “Get dressed,” he said more gruffly than intended. He strode to the door. “I will wait in the other room.” Alone once more, Chloe closed her eyes and muttered a soft curse. She’d probably annoyed him with her stupid comments. What had she been thinking? Would she ever learn to watch her mouth and think before she spoke? Lifting the dress up, she slid the slinky material between her fingers and bit back a sigh. She wouldn’t be able to wear a bra with this. It was a halter and the fabric was too thin. Something caught her eye on the bed, something tiny and black. She reached for it, hooking a finger under the black scrap and lifting it to eye level. Her brows rose at the tiny silk thong. No bra, but apparently some very scandalous panties. She bit back a giggle and slipped into them, trying to remember the last time she’d worn anything of the sort. Next she put on the dress and tied the silky straps behind her neck, following it up by stepping into the heels. A quick glance in the mirror had her wishing for her makeup bag since she’d washed her face clean while in the bath with Andrés. Refusing to let her mind drift back to that sensual moment, she pinched her cheeks to add some color and gave her hair one last fluff. She drew in a nervous breath then walked out of the bedroom. Andrés stood by the balcony doors, a snifter of brandy in his hand as he stared out at the fading sunset. He must’ve heard her approach, because he turned and stared at her. Hot desire flared in his eyes. “Ah, Chloe, you tempt me to stay in after all.” She smoothed a hand over her stomach and gave a shy smile. “I wouldn’t mind.” He gave a small shake of his head and approached her. “I want to show you my city, cariño. I have a quaint restaurant in mind. Intimate. Wonderful food.” She gave a wistful smile. “That sounds amazing. Should I call down to the front desk and have them order us a taxi?” Andrés set the snifter down. “No, that won’t be necessary. I have my own car and driver.” His own car and driver? Chloe’s knees went weak at the reminder that she basically had no idea who Andrés was. She’d slept with a man she barely knew, who was a guest at the resort. She bit her lip, trying not to think of how many self-imposed rules she’d broken tonight. Good lord…had she even clocked off from work? “Is anything wrong?” Andrés asked quietly, stepping toward her. “You look distressed.” “No.” She shook her head and said quickly, “No, it’s nothing. I-I’m fine.” His gaze swept her face and she knew he didn’t miss a thing. Andrés was far too perceptive. “Are you sure?” “Yes.” She gave a swift nod and looked away, but the seeds of unease had already been planted. “Shall we go?” Andrés finally nodded. “Sí. Let us leave now.” The possessive hand he placed on the small of her back sent shivers through her while he guided her from the suite. When they stepped out of the elevator downstairs, Chloe was all too uncomfortable. Men and women alike stared at Andrés, and employees of the resort would nod in acknowledgment. The hairs on the back of her neck lifted. Just how important of a guest was he? And had the employees recognized her? Would they be gossiping already that Chloe had left with the man in the penthouse? As they stepped outside, a sleek black Rolls-Royce pulled up front of the resort and her mouth fell open. A uniformed driver exited and came around to open the door for them. “After you,” Andrés murmured, and held out his hand to help her into the vehicle. Chloe blinked away her awe and accepted his hand. The electricity that seemed to pass between them had her biting her lip.