Sapphire Read online

  He gripped her tight in his arms. He would never let go of her.

  She felt as if she were floating in the air, and yet she’d never been more present, more alive, than in that moment.

  She felt the rush of another orgasm building inside of her, one that flushed through her system like a tidal wave, washing away all conscious thought. The only thing that remained was pleasure.

  Luca erupted as well, squeezing her so tight against his broad chest that she thought he might crush her. She didn’t care if he did. She would endure anything for him.

  At last they collapsed back on the bed.

  They could hear the sound of samba music drifting in the window from one of the cafes down on the street. Perhaps they’d go there later for a drink and a dance. Lex could already imagine how smoothly and sensually Luca would dance, how perfectly their bodies would move in tandem.

  “I have something for you,” Luca said, rolling over on his side to look at her. “Don’t worry, it’s not a ring.”

  His caramel-colored eyes were laughing at her, remembering their fight in the car, which already seemed ridiculous and long ago.

  In truth, Lex wouldn’t have minded so much if it was a ring. The idea didn’t terrify her anymore.

  But there was plenty of time for that.

  “What is it?” she said.

  She was curious by nature. She loved a good reveal, though it was rare for anyone to manage to surprise her.

  He handed her a flat gift-box, about the size of a paperback book.

  “You bought me something?” she said, wondering when he’d done that.

  “Bought!” Luca scoffed. “Come on now, you know me better than that.”

  Lex pulled the lid off the box.

  Inside, nestled in cotton, was the Romanov Cross.

  She laughed delightedly.

  “From our very first date!” she cried, grinning at him.

  She leaned over and kissed him, long and slow.

  “I stole it from Bruni, when I brought him the diadem. He took me down to his vault. Not very wise of him, bringing the fox in the henhouse.”

  “You’re so thoughtful,” Lex said, kissing him again.

  “I thought you might want to start a new collection,” Luca said.

  Lex looked at the cross. She was extremely glad to have it. But not for the same reasons she had once wanted it. It represented something completely different to her now. It reminded her of the first time she’d laid eyes on Luca.

  And though she liked it very much, and it was as beautiful as ever, she found her eyes drawn away from it, back to the gorgeous man lying next to her in bed. She would rather run her fingers over his warm, smooth skin, and feast her eyes on his chiseled body and handsome face.

  “I love it,” Lex said, sincerely. “But I love you more.”

  “I’m so glad to hear you say that,” Luca said.

  He rolled over on top of her once more, kissing her into oblivion.

  The End

  Thank you so much for reading

  Colors of Crime Book 1: Sapphire

  Do you wish that Byron Black could get his happily ever after as well? Read on for a preview of the thrilling sequel “Black”:

  Colors of Crime Book 2

  Even heroes have their secrets…

  Sixteen years ago, Detective Byron Black narrowly avoided a terrorist bombing. Now, an old enemy is back, threatening the life of one of London’s most popular politicians.

  Black must team up with childhood friend Holly Summers to find the bomber. As time runs out, he may be forced to choose between the woman who taught him to love again, and the lives of countless innocents.

  “Black” is a romantic suspense story. It is Book 2 of the Colors of Crime series. It’s a standalone novel complete with happy ending and no cliff hanger.

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  Rowdy and Romantic

  Sophie lives with her husband, two boys, and baby girl in the Rocky Mountain west. She writes intense, intelligent romance, with heroines who are strong and capable, and men who will do anything to capture their hearts.

  She has a slight obsession with hiking, bodybuilding, and live comedy shows. Her perfect day would be taking the kids to Harry Potter World, going dancing with Mr. Lark, then relaxing with a good book and a monster bag of salt and vinegar chips.

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