Detonate: A Dark Mafia Romance (Beneath The Mask Series Book 2)
Detonate: Chapter 29

As soon as we touched down in London, Grayson had us whisked off in a black limousine outside Heathrow Airport. I have no idea where we are staying or what he has planned, but I don’t care.

The limo drives through the busy streets of London, and I’m pretty sure we stop at every single set of traffic lights on the way. Not that I mind; I’m happy sightseeing from the window. Grayson is busy tapping away on his phone, his other hand encased in mine. London is pretty gray this morning… well, it’s the afternoon, according to my phone. Time zones aren’t my thing; it hurts my head just trying to work that out.

The streets are bustling with people. Much like a smaller version of New York. The big wheel catches my attention. Sienna always went on about how stunning the view is over sunset. Grabbing my phone, I snap a quick picture and send it to her.

“Hey, Grayson.”

“Yes, Baby?” He rests his phone down on his lap.

“Could we go on the London Eye?”

“We are going to fit in as many tourist attractions as we can in forty-eight hours, or, well, whatever we can manage between me fucking you overlooking the skyline, that is.” He winks, and I have to bite my tongue, literally, not to squeal in excitement.

“Thank you for bringing me here. Best. Date. Ever.”

“Anything on top of your sightseeing list?”

“Buckingham Palace. The Tower Bridge lit up at night. Ohhh, and maybe a little bit of shopping on Oxford Street.” I pout.

“I take it Sienna has given you an extensive list.”

“I might have texted her.”

“How about, whatever we don’t fit in, we do next time?”

Next time.

My stomach flips at the thought.

“Deal.”

The car comes to a stop outside the red carpeted entrance. Flashy cars are lined up along the street. “This looks amazing, Grayson.”

“Only the best for my woman,” he replies, getting out of the limo. The serious-looking, black suited driver holds my door open, and Grayson comes into view, holding out his hand for me.

Two men dressed in black uniforms with the funny hats remove our luggage from the trunk. Grayson whips out his wallet and hands a wad to the driver who gives him a nod.

“You ready, Baby?” he says.

I nod, unsure what else to do. As we walk toward the glass revolving doors of the Shangri-La, I’m completely overwhelmed being surrounded by glitz and wealth. I don’t belong here. My biker boots squeak against the shiny gray marbled floors. The essence of bergamot wafts through the reception area. Perfectly detailed with gold against the marble.

Grayson checks us in, and I wait behind him. He takes my hand in his, giving me a reassuring smile, before walking us over to the elevator, passing huge displays of bright red flowers with impressive crystal chandeliers hanging above.

An empty elevator greets us. I stay cuddled up against him as we walk in. The elevator dings on the 39th floor. I gasp as the doors open, revealing our suite. The room is filled with neutral tones and floral silk wallpaper. Grayson leads us in, and my eyes immediately gets drawn to the London skyline. I can’t help but admire the Tower Bridge. I walk past the cream couch, scattered with an array of brown pillows. A little Chinese tea set sits on the coffee table.

Our luggage is neatly placed next to the bed. Excitement zips through me as I launch myself over and jump onto the mattress, sinking in the luxurious covers. I sprawl out on my back and starfish. “Grayson, get over here. This is the comfiest bed I’ve ever been on.”

The mattress dips as his massive frame joins me. Resting my chin on my hand, I turn to face him. His sandy hair is ruffle, his chiseled jaw not as tight as it usually is. Damn, does he look good in all black.

“We have to be somewhere in an hour.”

“What are we doing?”

“That would ruin the surprise element.”

He runs the pad of his thumb along my cheek. “You are so beautiful, Maddie.” I lower my gaze. I guess when you’ve been brought up by a mother who never fails to pick out your flaws, it’s all you become used to.

He tips my chin back up with his index finger. “You are the most beautiful woman on this whole damn planet. Don’t hide from me, Sunshine. Embrace it.”

“I’ll try.”

“Good, I’d never lie to you.”

Our kiss is slow and sensual. His hand cups my jaw as he deepens it. I hook my leg over his thigh.

I bite down on his lower lip, and he groans into my mouth. “Mine,” he rasps, bringing his forehead to mine.

“Yours,” I say through a smile.

He catches my wrist and brings the palm of my hand to rest over his heart, which beats strongly through his ribs beneath my fingers. “And this is yours.”

“Thank you for trusting me with it,” I whisper. I don’t want to push him too far; I know his scars run deep. This is just enough confirmation to know he feels the same way.

“Come on, let’s get showered and to our appointment.” As he sits up, I snatch his wrist, catching his Rolex. He turns his head back to me, cocking his brow. I grab his hand and lead it along my thigh, opening my legs for him.

“Shower. Now.”

I don’t need to be told twice. I jump off the bed and shuffle out of my dress, leaving it in a pile on the floor. A naked Grayson watches my every move. I stand before him, biting my lower lip, and say, “I’ll go get started.”

He chases me.