Emily's hands went to Brandt's powerful biceps and squeezed gently. She felt the tension in Brandt's hold and wanted him to know she was his.

His muscles tightened fractionally and then he released her. His hand stroked down to her backside and gently cupped one cheek through the yellow silk. He whispered in her ear, "You're mine," before releasing her entirely.

Thomas walked to a sideboard and took out glasses without acknowledging his son's implied threat. "I propose ...