Free The Billionaire's Bargain by Sam Crescent

feelings
building inside him, he couldn’t keep them out. Tess did something to him. She
made him feel and want things he’d never wanted before. He knew she was loyal
with the way she’d helped her father. What would it be like to have a woman be
as loyal as that to him?
Duncan
watched as she glanced at her father. After everything the older man had done,
Tess still loved him.
Duncan
saw it, and for the first time in his life he wanted her love radiating back at
him.     
    In no time at all she stood before
him, her gaze on him and him alone. The emotion he saw within her depths
shocked him. He needed to give her comfort. His stylists weren’t wrong when
they said she looked ready to bolt. Even now, standing before him in the
church, he saw the slight shake of her body as the nerves got the better of
her.
Duncan
couldn’t stop himself. He stroked her cheek in an attempt to reassure her. He
wanted her to know he wasn’t going anywhere. He was there for her no matter what.
    She gasped at his touch. He felt the
chemistry ignite between them. She might not want to admit to the passion, but
her body was the best evidence he needed. He dropped his hand from her cheek
then offered his arm. Erik gave her to him then backed away.
Duncan
turned them both to the priest to
allow him to conduct the ceremony.
    Tess spoke the words required of
her. When it came to him,
Duncan
stared at his bride then spoke the words. He meant every single word he spoke.
The priest spoke to both of them.
Duncan
frowned when she stuttered over her last words. She kept glancing at the floor.
Her hand shook in his. He held her tightly, letting
her know through his touch he’d never hurt her or let her go.
    Duncan
didn’t understand where his
protective instinct was coming from. All he understood was his need to make
sure Tess was at his side where she belonged.
    He didn’t care if she didn’t want to
go through with the wedding. She’d agreed to it, and he wanted her more than he
wanted vengeance. Soon, he’d have everything he desired most. His mother in her place, Miranda in the dirt, and Tess in his bed.  
    The priest asked the audience if
there was any reason they couldn’t be together. When no one spoke he announced
them as man and wife. Tess stared at him as he cupped her cheek. It was too
late for her to back out. He sealed their vows with a kiss. Her eyes closed,
and her lips opened. He took advantage, plunging his tongue inside the heat of
her mouth. She moaned but didn’t back away. There was a round of applause. Mark
slapped him on the back.
Duncan
knew he was being indecent. He didn’t care. The whole church would know without
doubt that Tess was now his. She had his name. Tess was his.
    Duncan
pulled away. There was a round of
applause all around the church. He couldn’t believe the satisfaction he felt
knowing she was his to love, honour, and cherish.
     
     

Chapter Eight
     
    When they got to the reception,
Duncan
watched as Tess was
whisked away from his side. She was congratulated by everyone. All his friends
and clients took her hand and kissed it. He followed her around observing the
fake air kisses on the cheek from other women. When Tess turned away from the
women she was glared at. He got a chance to see the real animosity from the
women who claimed to be different. Men complimented her on how beautiful she
looked and how lucky
Duncan
was to have such a mesmerizing bride. He was proud when he didn’t growl at the
men to stay away from her. She looked so shy and reserved compared to all the
other guests. The after-party was held in one of the most notorious hotels.
He’d wanted the best for Tess on her last day as a single woman. The champagne
flowed for all the guests, and canapés and other little finger food were
offered. No expense had been spared for his wedding. Tess would look on this
day with pride. He’d made sure of it.  
    Duncan
observed her going through the
motions, smiling and cheering and working