Rogue Tide, Clean Heart novel Chapter 4

Before she could even let out a sigh of relief, large hands gripped her waist. In one smooth motion, the man lifted her off the ground and set her down on the cold marble counter.

Before Yanet could process what was happening, Barrett cupped the back of her head and crashed his lips onto hers.-

The cool, crisp taste of mint filled her mouth. Instinctively, Yanet reached out to grab his collar, only to realize he was shirtless. Her hands met hot, hard muscle. As she tried to pull back, Barrett caught her delicate wrists with his free hand, pinning them firmly against his chest.

Her eyelashes fluttered wildly. When she opened her eyes, she was met with his dark, predatory gaze. He looked like he wanted to devour her whole.

He kissed her until her lips parted instinctively, allowing him to deepen the kiss, completely taking over. By the time he pulled back, Yanet was completely breathless. Barrett looked highly satisfied. "Still sleepy?"

Yanet's toes curled in the air. "Can I put on a different bra?"

"You're wearing one?" He arched an eyebrow. He definitely hadn't felt one.

"I'm not wearing anything underneath this."

"Then what are you changing..." Barrett trailed off, finally realizing what she meant. He planted his hands on either side of her thighs. "Change after we're done."

Yanet pressed her hands lightly against his chest to keep him at bay. "Then I need to shower first."

Barrett stared at her intently for a moment. Yanet quickly explained, "I know it kills the mood, but if I don't shower, it's all I'm going to be thinking about. I have a bit of OCD about it."

Barrett chuckled softly. "Why are you explaining so much to me? You have every right to turn me down. I'm not going to throw a fit."

Yanet looked at him earnestly. "In movies and books, lack of communication causes so many unnecessary misunderstandings. I think it's better to just be clear with you."

Barrett realized his new wife was a bit of an adorable stressball. Why was she so terrified of making people mad?

He looked down at her. Yanet blinked up at him, her beautiful eyes shimmering with a soft, watery light. They were deeply alluring eyes, set in a face that looked like it belonged to a spoiled princess, yet her personality was incredibly endearing. At the very least, he was highly intrigued.

Barrett's fingers twitched with the urge to touch her. He reached out and gently pinched her cheek. "You're my woman now. You're allowed to be spoiled and demanding. I can handle it."

Yanet's eyelashes trembled. Before she could process his words, Barrett stepped back, giving her the bathroom.

Yanet took a long time getting cleaned up. By the time she changed into fresh clothes and slipped out, the man was already asleep.

"I'm not going. Happy early birthday."

He clearly hadn't expected that answer.

"Why not?" Harlan demanded instantly.

"It's not convenient."

"What's not convenient? You've never missed a single one of my birthdays since we were kids. Why are you suddenly skipping this year? Are you still holding a grudge over what happened yesterday?"

"I have a tour coming up. I'm not your personal assistant waiting on your beck and call. I need to make my husband breakfast now. Bye."

The moment she finished speaking, she realized Barrett and that giant dog, Princess, were standing in the doorway of the kitchen, watching her.

Barrett had his arms crossed over his chest. Before Yanet could react, he closed the distance between them, leaning in and capturing her lips.

The call hadn't disconnected yet.