“You’re amused by my shit luck again,” I pointed out as I leaned in to kiss her cheek, bringing my hand to her waist too. I didn’t just give her a quick peck. I lingered, laying one corner of my lips close to hers. I was going to claim that beautiful mouth of hers today. But I knew I wouldn’t be satisfied with a simple kiss. I wanted more from Val, and from the sweet way that she pressed herself into my touch, her sharp intake of air as she returned the kiss on my cheek, I knew she would surrender to me.

I couldn’t wait to be alone with her, to kiss her until she was wet for me. I’d work her up until she panted out my name, begging for more.

“Ready for fun?” I murmured in her ear. She smelled fantastic—some flower I couldn’t name— but also spicy. The tremor that coursed through her told me everything I needed to know.

“Yes. Is Peyton here too?”

“No, she’s at a playdate the whole day. She’s not a strong swimmer yet, and being on the boat all day would have been too dangerous for her.”

She watched me with warm eyes as we headed aboard together.

April was ecstatic when I introduced her to Val.

“I’ve heard so much about you, April.”

“Really? Well, my uncle kept you a secret until a few days ago.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll keep him out of your way so he doesn’t embarrass you.”

Wait a second, what?

“You will?” April looked like she might hug Val.

“I happen to be an expert at taming overprotective genes.”

My niece was grinning as if this was the best news she’d heard all day. After she went back to her group, which was huddled together at the other end of the deck, I cocked one brow at Val. She blushed and looked away, then peeked at me from the corner of her eye. I stepped closer. She half turned to me.

“So, you’re banding with April against me.”

“Well, it’s best if she thinks someone is on her side.”

“You’re playing double agent?”

“Not exactly. Let’s make ourselves scarce before you ruin the poor girl’s party.”

“Are you implying that I’m an ogre?”

She tilted her head playfully to one side. “Haven’t made up my mind yet.”

“I think you just want to be alone with me. To... what was the phrase? Tame me. How exactly do you plan to do that, Valentina?” Her cheeks turned pink, and I went even closer. She licked her lower lip. I almost crushed my mouth to hers. “If I’m going under, I’d at least like to know how.”

“Don’t you need to get this boat started?”

“Yes, I do. Want a tour before?”

She hesitated.