35. Lara

Chapter 35

Lara

“ T his place is incredible,” I say, more to myself than Carter, as he exits the lift and strolls into the penthouse suite. His penthouse suite, apparently. I assumed Carter had money, but I never stopped to wonder where he might live. I suppose a penthouse in Kensington makes sense; I imagine a place like this would cost an eye-watering amount.?

My attraction to the rear of a man never ceases to amaze me, but it’s hard not to be when he looks like Carter. Tonight, he’s paired a deep navy shirt with a pair of cream trousers that fit him like a glove. The muscles of his broad back ripple beneath his shirt.?

Would it kill the man to wear a shirt that didn’t always risk bursting at the seams? Or a pair of trousers that didn’t make his backside look quite so slapable??

Realising I’ve spent too long checking out Carter’s arse, I take a deep breath. As I step inside, I’m met with a floor-to-ceiling mirror on my left, and I take a moment to check myself over before continuing into the apartment.

The outfit I chose to wear is one of my sexier numbers. The entire trip over here was spent contemplating whether I’d made a huge mistake selecting it. This isn’t a date, and it was never going to be, but my clothing choices might say otherwise.

The girls told you to wear something you feel good in, and you listened. It’s not a date, and it’s not a big deal.

The deep V-neckline burgundy blouse has me feeling a little out of my comfort zone, but my arse looks incredible in the black trousers I paired with it. The firm fit accentuates my backside better than anything else I own. Truth be told, that’s the main reason I purchased them in the first place. Who says trousers can’t be hot? Add in my favourite pair of black heels, and we’ve got the ultimate sexy and sophisticated ensemble.

I gather my hair in both hands and throw it over my shoulder, only the blonde strands framing my face remaining. With one final check of my favourite nude lipstick, I take a deep breath and turn to follow Carter. The apartment has a touch of his signature sandalwood and vanilla scent, but there’s something else behind it—a rich, sweet smell permeates the air, similar to the aroma of burnt sugar and butter.

The expansive entryway is framed by sleek white oak wood panelling and opens up into a stunning open-plan kitchen and living room. A long granite benchtop flanked by plush emerald stools stands to my left, while a sunken charcoal lounge and decadent fireplace are on my right.

Unbidden images flood my thoughts as I gape at the wealth and beauty nestled within this room. Images of me, snuggled up in front of the fireplace with a good book, a glass of wine, and the man in front—no.?

Me, here, with Carter, for something other than dinner and a fuck? Not going to happen.

As I make my way through the space, shaking off the lingering image of Carter and I snuggling, my eyes catch on what’s possibly the most remarkable panoramic view I’ve ever seen; the London Eye lights up the sky, and Big Ben stands tall in the background.?

“It’s a little oversized for one person, but I like it all the same.” Carter comes to stand beside me, a small smile on his lips as he turns towards me. The signature scent of his cologne is so inviting, the faint undertone of salty sweat giving him an ‘I worked out today, but I also understand personal hygiene’ vibe. “Let me show you around.”

Clearly not having registered Carter’s offer, I don’t move, too entranced by the skyline. “And this view, my goodness, it really is something.”?

“It is indeed.”

I turn toward Carter, the smile on my face faltering slightly as I do so. Heat blooms in my cheeks as I realise he’s looking right at me rather than out the window behind me. He takes a step closer, and another, and I’m grateful the skyline is our main source of light as my cheeks burn.

Feeling a little self-conscious from his stare, I attempt to take a step back and return my gaze to the view. As my heeled foot moves, Carter grips my jaw with his hand to keep me from moving. “Where do you think you’re going, love?”?

“Nowhere, just wanted to admire the view a little more.” Excitement and anticipation flood my veins, causing my lower belly to tingle from his intense gaze.

Carter smirks. “I didn’t anticipate having to fight with the view for your attention.” He leans in closer, voice lowered, lips mere centimetres from mine. “It appears I need to up my game.”