“Vera, the hottie.” A male voice called.
I turned toward the sound as unseen male rolled from his seat, the female in his lap sliding off. Standing, he strode toward me, and as the shadows peeled off his features, I recognized Baron James.
“My lord.” I dipped my head respectfully.
“My girl,” the Baron said warmly, reaching for my jaw as he leaned close to kiss me.
I turned my face away automatically.
“Ah, of course. I forgot your distaste for kisses,” he chuckled, then pressed a hot, possessive kiss to the side of my neck. One arm wrapped around my waist while the other slid lower to cup my behind firmly. “Forgive me, sweetness.”
I did an internal eye-roll. “Apology accepted, your lordship.”
“Come. Sit with me,” he caught my wrist in his.
But, I drew my hand back politely. “I am af
