Free The Tycoon's Socialite Bride (Entangled Indulgence) by Tracey Livesay Page A

his suit jacket. Marcus watched him, his eyes hard, his lips a thin line.
    “Pearson,” Devin bit out. “I understand you’re not used to the way we do things, so let me give you a piece of advice: don’t leave Pamela Harrington sitting by herself. If you’re not careful, someone will come along and steal her away.”
    “I don’t let anyone take what’s mine,” Marcus replied, his voice low.
    Devin turned back to her. “Pamela, think about what you’re doing, the people you’re alienating. What will you do when he’s gone?”
    “She won’t have to worry about that, because I’m not going anywhere.” Marcus slid a strong arm around her waist and pulled her close. The heat from his presence warded off the lingering chill of Devin’s proximity and she melted into him, her body craving his warmth.
    A muscle in Devin’s cheek jumped. He stared at the juncture of their joined bodies. “Remember what I said.” With a dismissive nod to Marcus, he strode out of the pub.
    She was ashamed of the power she’d given him. Looking at him now as he walked away, she didn’t see a monster.
    Just a man.
    “So that was your ex?” Marcus released her and reclaimed his seat.
    “Yes, I—wait, how did you know?”
    “Same way you knew I grew up here.” He studied her. “Are you okay?”
    She nodded, smiling slightly. “I’m fine.”
    “Good. Is he going to be a problem?”
    “No.”
    “This may be a marriage in name only, but it has to look real to the outside world. And no one would ever believe I’m okay with my wife fooling around.”
    “Trust me, that won’t be a problem.” She held her breath, afraid to ask the question. “Does that mean we’re still on?”
    His gaze flickered to the pub’s entrance before coming back to her. “Yeah, we’re still on.”
    Thank God.
    “But no more meetings with your ex-fiancé.”
    “That ship has sailed. If I wanted to be with him, I would be.”
    He watched her, his eyes taking inventory of her face. She stayed still, sensing they had reached a critical juncture. What was he thinking? Did he believe her?
    “We have a wedding to plan. Unfortunately, I have a meeting back at the office. We’ll talk soon.”
    She wanted to shout for joy. Later. When she was back at her hotel suite, without the intrusive eyes and ears. That’s also when she would truthfully examine how much of her was relieved for the shelter and how much just for her. For now, the knowledge that it wasn’t over was enough. She nodded, a smile threatening. “I’m going to stay and have a late lunch.”
    He leaned across the table, reached out and cupped the back of her head, and gave her a quick, hard kiss. Her heart thudded in her chest and desire spiraled in her belly. His lips were cool, the pressure firm, and she laid her palm against his cheek, wanting more. She parted her lips, intending to deepen the kiss, but he pulled back an inch. They were so close she could see the midnight-blue streaks that rayed around his irises.
    “I don’t share. And I won’t be made a fool. Not by you, not by anyone.” His voice was raw, his eyes fierce as they stared into hers.
    “I’ll keep that in mind.”
    He strode away, the object of many covetous looks.
    She’d had an out, but she didn’t take it. What had she gotten herself into?
    …
    Marcus ran along M Street, the primary commercial corridor of Georgetown, the District’s oldest neighborhood. Beside him, Carter panted and mumbled under his breath. Although it was early in the morning, the infamous DC humidity was on full blast, making the run more difficult. Perfect. He needed to be punished. Why had he agreed to continue with their arrangement when he should have ended it? That would have made the best business sense. But if he were honest, he’d ceased being guided primarily by business the moment he first kissed her. He was an idiot. Keep it professional . He upped his pace and heard Carter swear.
    “That’s it, I’m done.”
    He looked