Sweet Temptation by Cora Reilly

“No sex in the ocean. I’ll freeze off important assets if we stay in the water
any longer.”
Cassio laughed deeply against my skin. “What kind of assets?” His mouth
traveled south then closed around my nipple.
I clutched his head, nodding. “That one for example.” I searched the row of
houses lined up on the dunes. Light shone in some of them, and I wondered if
they’d be able to see us if they looked out toward the ocean.
I didn’t care.
“I’ll keep your assets warm, don’t worry,” he murmured against my skin, and
I decided freezing to death might be worth it.
After a quickie in the ocean, I managed to convince Cassio of another round
on the beach, which I regretted afterward… just like he’d predicted. A thick
coating of sand covered every inch of my body, and more than one grain of sand
had found its way in crevices I preferred sand-free. After a long shower, I still
felt sore as we settled on the swing once more. Cassio’s I-told-you so face was
additional punishment.
Someone knocked at the window. Simona pressed her nose against the glass
and hammered her little fists against it. Cassio opened the door and picked her
up before he settled with her on his lap beside me. Simona snuggled against him
and gave me a tired smile. I ruffled her dark blond locks and curled my legs
under my body. Cassio kept the swing in motion with his longer legs.
Not long after, the terrace door opened again, and Daniele stepped out onto
the porch barefoot. Rubbing his eyes, he stumbled toward us. I hoisted him onto
the swing between us, and he rested his little head against my chest.
I’d never considered myself ready to become a mom. I’d felt like a child
myself most days before Dad told me about my engagement to Cassio. It was
true that you rose to the tasks presented to you if you only faced them head-on.
I’d probably mess up often raising these kids. I’d have to learn with them.
Cassio leaned his head back, looking at peace and content. I wanted to be his
safe haven. His work was full of blood, conflict, and death. I didn’t want that at
home. He caught me staring and gave me a tired smile.
I’d take care of Simona and Daniele, I’d protect them from everything, even
the truth. I swore I’d never lie to Cassio, but the truth his father told me would
have to be the one exception.
Lies had a way of catching up with you eventually. I hoped this was one of
the cases where they didn’t.