“Why? You don’t like it when women touch you?”
He swallows hard, his jaw clenching. “I’m not used to being touched.”
“Then why aren’t you pulling away?”
“Because I don’t want to hurt you.”
My hand slides down his chest and over his abs, and I feel him trembling beneath my touch. I look down and see the unmistakable ridge against his grey sweatpants.
“Have you ever been with a woman, Taras?”
His jaw clenches tighter.
“It’s okay if you haven’t,” I say softly.
“I’ve done things,” he mutters.
“What things?”
“I don’t want to talk about this.”
“You’re a virgin,” I realize, a smile tugging at my lips. “That’s sweet.”
“It’s not…”
The intercom crackles, breaking the spell. “Taras? Is Anya in there with you?”
He jerks back, practically jumping off the bed. He clears his throat before answering. “Yes. She got lost. I was showing her where the elevator is.”
“Uh huh. Send her down. Dinner’s getting cold.”
“I will.” He hangs up, the room suddenly feeling a lot colder.
I stand up and smooth out my clothes. “I should go.”
I head for the door, but his voice stops me.
“Wait.”
When I turn back, he’s standing there, looking everywhere but at me. “The watch. You can have it.”
“What?” I mutter in disbelief.
“It’s yours. I want you to have it.”
“Taras,” I shake my head. “I was joking…”
“I know. But please take it.” He finally looks at me, his eyes full of a strange hope. “In exchange… can I have your number?”
I stare at him. This massive, dangerous-looking man is negotiating for my number like his life depends on it. “You’re giving me a 200,000 euro watch for my phone number?”
“Yes. Please.”
“Okay.”
His eyes light up instantly. “Really?”
“Give me your hand.” I grab a pen from the vanity and write my number across his palm. “There. Don’t wash it off.”