CHAPTER FIFTEEN

One drink had turned into a few too many, and I was pleasantly buzzed. The city lights blurred into streaks of color outside the window, creating a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere. I slouched in Mateo's passenger seat, more comfortable than I should've been as we headed back towards the estates. I glanced over at him, his profile illuminated by the passing streetlights. He looked composed, every bit the powerful man he was, even in this relaxed setting.

My mind swirled with the events of the evening, his words, his promises, and the undeniable pull between us I was trying to ignore. I laughed to myself wondering what the point of that was. If I were to be this man's wife, I would most certainly be in his bed. I didn't entirely hate the idea of being pinned beneath him. If that's what it took to bring my sister back to me, well, I could think of worse fates .

"You seem to be in a good mood," he observed, his tone casual but with an undercurrent of satisfaction.

"I am, I think," I admitted.

He chuckled softly, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the steering wheel. "Good."

I leaned back in the seat, closing my eyes for a moment. The reality of my situation was beginning to sink in, but in this hazy state, it didn't seem quite as daunting. I knew that once the buzz wore off, the weight of it all would return, but for now, I allowed myself a moment of respite. Melody and Peyton would have had a stroke if they had seen me right then.

It wasn't until we passed through the gates that I realized Mateo's destination was his own home. The mansion loomed ahead, impressive and intimidating despite the darkness. The driveway curved elegantly around a central fountain, its waters shimmering under the soft ambient lighting .

As we approached, I spotted two men patrolling the perimeter, each moving in a different direction. I knew there were probably more unseen guards ensuring the safety of the estate.

My first instinct was to message Peyton and Melody about my whereabouts. I hurriedly pulled out my phone from my clutch and sent them a quick update. Just as I hit send, Mateo drove into a massive garage filled with three other luxury cars that easily cost more than my entire life. He parked and turned off the engine, leaving us in an eerie silence.

"Why did you bring me here?" I asked, trying to sound brave.

"To do exactly what I promised," he replied with a smirk as he stepped out of the car and came around to open my door. He offered me his hand, which completely engulfed mine. His grip was strong yet surprisingly gentle. As I followed him out of the car, his presence seemed to fill up the entire space around us .

Mateo’s eyes met mine, a flicker of something unreadable in them. "Come," he said softly, his voice a mix of command and invitation.

We walked through the garage, the luxury cars gleaming under the soft overhead lights. I felt a sense of unreality as he led me through a side entrance into the house. The interior was just as opulent as I had imagined, with high ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and an artful blend of classic and modern decor. The air was scented with something subtle and expensive.

The space between us crackled with unspoken tension as he leaned in closer, his voice low and dangerous. "There are a few things we need to discuss, but first, would you like another drink?"

I felt my heart race at the suggestive tone, but I played it cool. "Trying to get me drunk?"

He chuckled. "I'll cut you off when you've had enough. You'll want to remember everything that happens tonight. "

My mind swirled with desire and confusion as I struggled to keep up with his game.

"Is that a yes?"

I nodded, unable to resist the magnetic pull he had over me. "Yes...please."

He guided me into a luxurious room that took my breath away. The space was a perfect blend of opulence and comfort, designed to impress. The first thing that caught my eye was the stunning pool table at the center, its dark, polished wood gleaming under the ambient lighting. A rich, black carpet lay beneath it.

Above the table, intricate chandeliers hung from the ceiling, their crystals catching the light and casting a warm, inviting glow across the room. The chandeliers themselves were works of art, with branches of gold intertwined and adorned with delicate crystal drops, resembling a cascade of light. To one side of the room was a stocked bar, its shelves lined with an impressive array of spirit s

Behind the bar, a mirrored backdrop reflected the room. Golden accents and artistic designs complemented the overall decor, giving the room a cohesive and sophisticated look. Plush chairs were arranged strategically, offering intimate seating areas for conversation and relaxation. The overall effect was one of refined luxury, a space designed for both entertainment and relaxation.

"Make yourself comfortable," Mateo said, gesturing to the barstools as he moved behind the bar to mix our drinks. He went behind the bar with practiced ease, selecting a few bottles and ingredients. He began to mix a drink, his movements smooth and confident. A moment later, he handed me a beautifully garnished glass filled with a light, pink-hued cocktail.

"This is a French 75," he said, watching my reaction. "It's lighter than what I'm having."

I took a tentative sip, the refreshing citrus flavor mingling with the subtle sweetness of the champagne .

"It's good," I said, genuinely appreciating the choice. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," he replied, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

He came around the bar with his drink and took a stool beside me, his presence as imposing as ever. We sat in a comfortable silence for a moment, the luxurious room providing a backdrop to the weight of our conversation.

“Tell me more about yourself.”

I took another sip of my drink, gathering my thoughts. I’d already given the basics at the restaurant. "There's not much more to tell," I started, unsure of how much to reveal. "I've spent most of my life trying to stay out of trouble and looking after my sister."

Mateo nodded, his eyes never leaving mine. "And what about your interests? Your dreams?"

I hesitated, surprised by the genuine curiosity in his voice .

"I used to dream of traveling, seeing the world," I admitted. "But those dreams took a backseat as I got older."

He listened intently; his expression thoughtful. "I understand," he said after a moment. "Things will be different. You're stepping into a new life, with new possibilities. You give me the location and I will make sure we go."

I looked at him, trying to read the intentions behind his words. I couldn't detect an ounce of deceit. It wasn't as if he needed to butter me up with pretty words or empty lies. I could see myself jet-setting with him as easily as I could being his wife--not very clear at all. "What about you, Mateo?”

He leaned back slightly, considering his response. "Power, control, and the need to protect what is mine," he said finally. "Many assume all I have is inherited like I was some fucking trust-fund, spoiled asshole.”

“I don’t. ”

“Because you’re sweet,” he acknowledged with a dimpled smile. “I admit, I learned much from my father and the other men who raised me, but I've built my side of this empire from the ground up, and I will do whatever it takes to maintain it."

His honesty was both intimidating and oddly reassuring. This was a man who knew exactly what he wanted and how to get it. As I took another sip of my drink, I realized that understanding him was crucial to navigating this new reality. We continued to talk, the conversation flowing more easily as the hour progressed. Despite the circumstances, there was a strange comfort in the way he listened and responded, a connection forming between us that I hadn’t anticipated.

Or maybe it was just the alcohol talking.

"Isn't this where you're supposed to be showing me what being your wife is like?" I asked, the alcohol giving my voice a sultry tone .

Mateo's eyes sparkled with amusement. "I haven't forgotten. And I've been thinking about where to begin since I saw you in that stunning dress."

My cheeks flushed at his intense gaze, and my heart raced. "That's not what I meant."

"Regardless, let me make good on my promise," he said with a mischievous grin, finishing his drink. The ice clinked as he set down the glass and moved closer to me. As he closed the distance between us, I could feel the heat of his body against mine. He turned my stool and took hold of my face. His touch was amplified by the alcohol swimming through my veins, electric as he traced a line along my jaw, his eyes never leaving mine.

There was a hunger in his gaze that both thrilled and terrified me. I tried to steady my racing heart as he leaned in, his lips brushing against mine in a tantalizingly soft kiss. Time seemed to stand still as we lingered in that moment .

One hand tangled in my hair, pulling my head back to deepen the kiss. The other slipped under my dress, roaming up my smooth thighs. His movement faltered when he reached the hem of my lacey thong. His grip on my hair tightened and he pulled away from my mouth. “I don’t recall sending underwear with this dress.”

“I couldn’t go without,” I replied softly, the warning in my head distracting me.

“Already doing as you please?” He stared down at me. “I need to get you upstairs.” He stepped back and pulled me to my feet with a gentle but firm grip, his eyes never leaving mine.