Boxed Set: The Billionaire’s Desire Complete Collection (Books 1-3 and Bonus Books 1 and 2) (Submitting to the Billionaire) (16 page)

            He hesitated and then gave me a quick wink and a smile.  "I'd say the odds are in your favor."

           
Did he really just say that to me?
  I had to quickly compose myself and refrain from flinging my arms around him.  I was happy we were headed to the dining room.  Lunch was a welcome distraction.

CHAPTER 5

            After lunch, Joshua, Jake, Ethan and a couple of the men left for their 2:30 tee time.  Everyone else went back to Bunny's house.  I told Bunny I was tired and I was going to take a quick nap.  She wanted to show me the gallery later in the afternoon and said she would come to my room to get me in a couple of hours.

            I took a quick shower and then lay in bed and thought of Joshua’s soft kisses and caresses.
  For such a rigid man, he really has a soft side.
  I was in such a state of bliss as I dozed off to sleep.

            A couple of hours later I was awakened by a light knock on my door.
  Bunny!
  I must have been exhausted because I slept through my alarm.  I hopped out of bed and quickly grabbed my brush.

            "Coming!"  I quickly tore the brush through my hair and grabbed my sundress out of the closet.  I made myself presentable and opened the door.

            "I hope I didn't wake you."  Bunny was so sweet.

            "Oh, not at all.  I was brushing my teeth and must not have heard you when you first knocked."  I felt a little guilty telling the small fib.

            "I would love to show you the gallery.  Would you like to see it now?"

            "I would love to Bunny.  I've been looking forward to it since you first mentioned it."

            We walked downstairs to the gallery and the moment I stepped inside I was transfixed.  Bunny had original works of Botticelli, Titian and Giotti among other artists I did not know proudly displayed on the walls.

            "You love the Italian Renaissance also I see.  These paintings are simply magnificent Bunny."

            “Thank you dear.  It was such a nice surprise to hear that this is your favorite period also.  I knew there was something I liked about you.  You're a very bright girl with a good head on her shoulders, I like that."

            I was so flattered that she liked me.  This wealthy and powerful woman, the mother of the man I cared for, liked me.

            We slowly walked around in silence as we admired the artwork.  I was standing in front of a work by Titian, studying the details, when Bunny walked over to me.

            "This is one of my favorite pieces.  I bought this when Joshua stepped in and took over the company after his father passed away.  He became a man that day and this picture expresses that sentiment to me.  Joshua has always been very sensitive you know.  It is difficult to know that because he has such a tough exterior.  But once you get to know him, you'll see the softer side."  Bunny turned to look at me.  "I suppose you've already seen that side of him."  She looked back at the painting.  "You wouldn't be here if he hadn't opened up to you in some way.  I know my son.  I can see that he cares for you.  I have never seen him happier.  When my sons are happy then I am happy."  She turned to me again and looked me in the eye.  "Be patient with him Sarah.  He is not the type who openly expresses himself right away.  It takes time for him.  When he does decide to express his feelings for you, one thing is for sure.  He will not waver, there will be no games."

            Bunny hesitated and then lightly touched my arm.  "I just ask one thing of you."

            I looked at her, silently asking what she wanted.

            "If he decides to give his heart to you, please protect it and cherish it with everything you have."

            I was stunned speechless with the entire talk we just had… well, she had.  I just listened.  Bunny basically told me to wait patiently for Joshua to express his feelings for me.  I really didn't know how to react but I was starting to feel extremely giddy. 
She seems to approve of me!  Can this be real?

            As I stood there dazed, not knowing what to say, Bunny looked at her watch.

            "Shall we go join the others?  The boys should be back from their golf game soon."

            As we walked out of the gallery, I realized that I would probably remember that conversation for the rest of my life.

CHAPTER 6

            The next day I woke up in a panic because I remembered that the party was the next night and I didn't have anything to wear.  I quickly showered, walked over to Joshua's room and knocked on his door.  When he opened the door he literally, once again, took my breath away.  There he stood, hair tousled all over his head, bare chest, wearing just pajama bottoms looking sexy as ever.  For a second I forgot why I was there.  He smiled at me as I stood there tongue-tied.

            "This is a nice surprise.  Are you coming to get me for breakfast?"

            "Yes, I suppose so.  But I'm really here because I don't have anything to wear for the party tomorrow night."  I was whispering because I didn't want anyone to hear me.

            Joshua pulled me inside and closed the door.

            "Don't worry Sarah.  That's already been taken care of.  You will receive a delivery this afternoon and you have a nice selection of gowns to choose from."

            I was being so spoiled and I was starting to really like it.  I enjoyed the luxuries I had been experiencing.  And why not?  This was a once-in-a-lifetime thing and I wanted to enjoy every minute of it.

            "Thank you Joshua.  I don't know how I will ever repay you for this experience."

            "Just work hard and make partner.  That will be thanks enough."

            He held my gaze and this time I saw a new look in his eyes.  I saw tenderness in his gaze as he looked at me.

            "Well, I should hop in the shower.  You're welcome to stay and wait if you'd like."

            I decided to wait in his room for him and he seemed happy that I did because he whistled on the way to the shower.  I was watching the morning news when Joshua emerged, a towel wrapped around his waist, water still glistening on his skin.  My eyes roamed slowly over his delicious body. 
Dammit he is so gorgeous.  Oh the things I'd like to do to you right now.

            He caught me looking at him and gave me a sexy smirk.  He walked over to me and leaned down to whisper in my ear.  The smell of fresh soap and coconut scented shampoo flooded my nostrils.

            "I guess you like what you see."  He stood back and winked to me, grabbed his underwear from the bureau, and retreated to the dressing area.  I could feel my cheeks flush as he teased me.  Butterflies danced in my belly as I thought of how perfect things felt between us.  I loved being there with him.  After he got dressed we made our way down to the breakfast nook and joined everyone there.

            Later that day I was chatting with Jake and Vivienne by the pool when Joshua told me a delivery had just arrived for me.  I went to my room and there were two full racks of designer dresses for me to choose from.  I stood with my hand over my mouth completely amazed. 
What has he done?
  A couple of minutes later I was still standing there looking at the dresses when Joshua sidled up beside me.  I turned to look at him, gratitude filling my eyes.

            "Joshua, I don't know what to say.  These are all so beautiful, thank you."

            "I want you to feel comfortable tomorrow night and I know that if you like what you're wearing you will be."  He turned to close my door and then sat down in a chair.

            "Try them on."  His words were a command.

            "Now?"

            "Yes.  I want to see each dress on you."

            I chose the first dress on the rack and turned to go change in the dressing area.

            "No, Sarah."

            I stopped in my tracks and turned to look at him, his steady stare unflinching.

            "Try them on in front of me."

            I felt self-conscious because he had never seen my body in such bright conditions.  The sun was beaming into my room and Joshua would be able to see every flaw.  My heart was pounding as I undressed in front of him and tried on the first dress.

            "Do you like it?"  My question hung in the air unanswered as his eyes roamed over my body.

            "Next dress."  His terse tone shocked me and even annoyed me a little bit. 
He can be such a jerk sometimes.

            We went through this routine for each dress, and each time Joshua still did not answer me.  Finally, on dress number 18, he said something.  It was a dark pink strapless Valentino full-length gown.  It hugged me in all the right places and it was my favorite so far.

            "That's it.  That's the one."  Joshua got up, walked over to me and led me to the full-length mirror.  He stood behind me as we looked in the mirror together. 

            "This is beautiful on you Sarah.  You look stunning."  His warm breath on my neck sent tingles down my back.  "One of the best hairstylists and make-up artists in the Beverly Hills will be here tomorrow to help you get ready."

            He turned me around to face him.  He slowly ran a finger down my arm and leaned in to whisper to me.  "I am going to have my eye on you all night.  Remember, you belong to me."

            I looked him right in the eye and said the words I knew he wanted to hear.

            "Yes sir."

CHAPTER 7

            My hairstylist did a beautiful job and my makeup artist was putting the finishing touches on my lipstick when there was a knock at my door.  She opened the door for me and Joshua stood there looking gorgeous and dashing in his tuxedo.  He was perfection head to toe. 
So beautiful.
  I was really looking forward to this party.

            "You look beautiful Sarah."  I saw the guarded yearning in his eyes and wanted to put my arms around him.

            I smiled at him wishing so badly we could be a real couple. 
I'll just have to cherish the time we have together.

            "Thank you."  I started to feel nervous as he held his gaze on me and my throat felt dry.  We had to get to the party or I was going to want to attack him right there in front of my makeup artist.

            "Shall we go?"  Joshua held out his arm for me and I happily put mine through his.  As we walked down the winding staircase to the party, I felt so beautiful standing beside Joshua.  My gown fell perfectly around my feet as I glided down the stairs.  Vivienne was the first person I saw as we joined the party and she looked green with envy.

            "Sarah, how lovely you look."  Her forced smile did not fool me. 
I can fake it too sweetheart.

           
"You're too kind Vivienne.  You look stunning, I love your dress."  I flashed her a smile that should have won an award.  "Where is Jake?"

            "Did I hear my name?”  He leaned down to kiss me on my cheek. “Sarah, you take my breath away.  You look gorgeous."

            Jake was so sweet and I could see that Vivienne was nearly pouting. 
She’s boring
and
a brat?  I don't know how he deals with that.

            "Jake you're too sweet.  Thank you kind sir."  I gave him a mock curtsy as he chuckled at me.  Vivienne was now seething. 

           
"Joshua, dashing as always."

            "I can say the same thing to you my favorite brother."

            "Your
only
brother," Jake chuckled.

            I really enjoyed the comfortable banter between them and it was evident that they cared about each other.  No sibling rivalry at all.  It was so refreshing.

            "Shall we go find mother?"  Joshua led the way as we all walked over to Bunny.

            "Happy birthday mother!  You don't look a day over 35."  Joshua leaned down and kissed her on the cheek.

            "Yes mother, you are ageless and you look beautiful.  Happy birthday!"  Jake leaned down and gave his mother a kiss.

            Bunny was beaming with pride.

            "My two handsome sons.  I'm so happy you're here to celebrate with me."  She gave them a big hug.  As she stepped back, she glanced at Vivienne.

            "Vivienne."  That's all she said! 
Wow, she really does not like that girl!
 

            “Happy birthday Bunny.”  Vivienne looked embarrassed. 

            Then Bunny looked at me and a huge smile spread across her face.

            "Sarah, you look absolutely beautiful!  Thank you so much for being here."  Bunny gave me a big hug.

            "Thank you Bunny.  I am so happy to be here to celebrate with you.  Happy birthday!"

            "Please help yourselves to refreshments.  The waiters are making their way around the ballroom with trays of hors d'oeuvres and glasses of wine and champagne.  I must go mingle with the guests!"  And off she went.  Bunny looked like such a social butterfly and she seemed very happy. 

            I turned to Joshua and Jake.  "Your mother seems to be in her element."

            "She loves to entertain.  I think throwing parties is her favorite past time."

            "Well, well, well, if it isn't the golden boy and his groupies."

            Ethan's sarcastic voice rang out behind us.  As we turned Joshua put his hand on the small of my back.  Ethan was sneering at Joshua. 
Even with that nasty look on your face you are so damned good-looking.  This family has incredible genes!

            I could feel Joshua stiffen.  I looked up at him and his jaw was clenched, his face like stone.

            "Ethan.  I hope you're staying out of trouble."  Joshua's tone was cordial yet firm as he shook his hand.

            "Of course dear cousin.  I wouldn't dare start any trouble at my adoring aunt's birthday party." 

            I could see that Ethan's cocky smirk put Joshua on edge.  Jake stepped in to smooth things over.

            "Ethan, let's go grab a drink."

            Ethan seemed to be placated by Jake and he walked off with him to the bar.

            "Ethan is not so bad Joshua."

            Both Joshua and I were shocked to hear Vivienne come to his defense.  I couldn't help but say something.

            "Oh really, Vivienne?  Because I just saw a very rude display.  Do you know him very well?"  My eyes captured hers as she tried to look away. 
Oh no, no missy.  You're not getting out of this one.

           
She stumbled over her words as she tried to downplay her relationship with him.  "No, not that well.  I've seen him at family functions and he's always been kind to me.  I think he's a nice person and doesn't mean any harm.  That's all I meant by that."

            I decided to let her off the hook but Joshua wanted to add one more thing to no one in particular.  "Ethan needs to learn his place and stay there.  His mouth is going to get him into real trouble one day."

            Vivienne looked very uncomfortable and excused herself to the ladies’ room. 

            I tried to comfort Joshua.  "Don't let him get to you.  You told me he has animosity toward you so just ignore him."

            "I wish it was that easy.  He works for the company so I have to see him all the time.  Mother insisted that he have a senior-level position, so when we took over, Jake, myself, and Ethan became automatic partners in the company.  That was the one case of partners not having to earn their position.  Since we had to run the company mother felt that dad and my uncle would have wanted all of us to run it together.  But like I told you, Ethan got sloppy and partied too much.  So his voting power was reduced drastically.  But he still has personal interaction with clients and he does bring in new business, so I am forced to put up with him and his antics.”  He stopped and looked at me with those gorgeous eyes.

            "You know what?  You look beautiful, and we are at this wonderful party.  We shouldn't be wasting time talking about Ethan.  Would you like to dance?"

            There were the butterflies again. 
You’ll probably affect me like this forever.

            "I would love to dance with you."

            Everyone in the room melted away the minute he pulled me into his arms.  As we moved to the music, our bodies pressed together and I let out a soft sigh as I laid my head on his shoulder.  I wish I could have frozen that perfect moment in time. 
I want to stay like this with you forever.
  There it was.  I finally gave in to my feelings for Joshua.  I decided to completely embrace my feelings for him realizing I would just have to take a chance that he had real feelings for me also. This was more than a contract.  I wanted so badly to tell him how I felt but I didn't want to scare him away.  His thumb slowly rubbed my back and he pulled me tighter to him.  I could feel his erection as our bodies molded together.  We stayed like that until the song ended and then Joshua held the back of my hand to his lips and kissed it.  He looked at me, his eyes smiling at me.

            "Thank you for the dance.  I'm going to the restroom and when I get back we can go mingle.  I will introduce you to some of mother's friends."

            "Okay, I will be here waiting."  I smiled at him as he walked away. 
This night could not be more perfect. 

            I was fluffing my hair when I felt a hand touched my arm.

            "Would you like to dance?"  Jake was smiling down at me.

            "I would love to."

            As we were dancing, I decided to find out where his head was regarding Vivienne.  "So tell me, how are things with Vivienne?"

            "Moving right along, I suppose.  Although, I think she has something going with Ethan."  He was completely unfazed.

            "Are you serious?" 
I
knew
something was going on there.

           
"Pretty sure.  I've noticed that they've been spending a lot of time together.  Honestly, I don't care.  That probably means something, huh?  Indifference is worse than getting angry in my book because when you're angry that means that you still care on some level.  You know what Sarah?  I've been doing a lot of thinking since we talked.  You had a lot of valid points and I think I might end things with Vivienne pretty soon."

           
Good for you Jake.
  "Well, I just want you to be happy.  Life is too short not to be."

            We were just finishing our dance when Ethan appeared.  "May I cut in?  I'd like a chance to twirl around with the belle of the ball."

            I looked around for Joshua but didn't see him anywhere.  I didn't want to be rude so I indulged him.  Jake looked at me and raised his eyebrows, silently asking if it was okay if he cut in.  I looked at him and nodded.  He then stepped aside and Ethan stepped in and pulled me a little too close.  We glided across the floor effortlessly.

            "You can relax your grip on me anytime now."  Annoyance was bleeding into my voice.

            "I just want to be close to the girl who seems to have captured my cousin's heart."  I stiffened in his arms, irritated that I was intrigued by what he was saying. 
I've captured Joshua's heart?
 He pulled me closer and whispered in my ear.  "Relax."

            I tried to push away from him but he held me tight as he twirled me across the floor.  I fixed my steely gaze on him and pursed my lips.  Amusement danced in his eyes as a smirk tipped up the corners of his mouth.  "Now, now, calm down.  I would just like to dance with you.  The Hunter brothers aren't the only ones allowed to do so, are they?"  He looked at me and had the most obnoxious look on his face.  My expression must have given something away.  "Oh, wait a minute!  Has my dear cousin Joshua captured your heart as well?"  His hand started to slide down over my backside.