Theirs to Corrupt (Titans Captivated #5)

Chapter 17

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

Tessa

“And do you have rings?” Reverend Clara asks, looking between Link and me.

Rings?

What does it say that I never considered that we’d need them?

“We do,” Link replies.

Blinking my surprise, I look at him. “We do?”

“For all of us.” He looks at me. “I wouldn’t have proposed without a ring.”

“I hope it’s just a plain gold band.”

“Mm.”

Which can mean anything from him. “Link, I mean it.”

“Of course you do.”

He strokes his thumb over the back of my hand in a soothing, reassuring touch that has me forgetting my own name.

Right now, Link, Pax, and I are seated in the Sky Chapel across from Clara, and Link has explained our unusual ceremony. And my men have reassured her that we all understand the actual legalities.

Because I had lots of dreams—all of them filled with memories of the night before with Link and Pax—I slept late. But when I joined the men, they had coffee waiting, and a full breakfast: fluffy eggs, bacon, sausage, waffles.

By the time we walked into the Sky Chapel to find preparations already underway for our ceremony, I was feeling awake and mostly human.

Though our chairs have not yet been covered in white fabric and wrapped with bows, there are already more than seventy seats that are decorated and waiting for our guests.

“And vows?”

Oh my God. I hadn’t thought of that either.

“Will you have your own?” she asks. “Or we can make changes to traditional ones.”

“I’ve written mine,” Link says, stunning me once more.

Then he and Clara look at me. I have no idea what to say.

“Would you like me to send you some suggestions?” she offers.

“Please,” I agree instantly.

“Feel free to make any changes, then send them to me before the ceremony starts.”

I nod.

Just then, Nora enters, carrying her pad, wearing a black dress and sensible pumps.

After greetings are exchanged, she issues half a dozen orders.

“Mr. Merritt, Mr. Gallagher, you’ll be in the room off to the side.” She points. “Over there.”

When they nod, she goes on, “At exactly seven, your song will begin playing. You’ll enter and stand in front of the minister, facing the door. Tessa, that’s when you and I will leave the bridal room. We’ll have about two minutes, give or take.

She has memorized every detail, down to the second, it seems.

“I’ve arranged for the bridal room to be available at three o’clock.”

Why so early? “Four hours before the ceremony?”

“Allowing time for hair and makeup.”

“I—”

“I took the liberty of seeing to that,” Link interrupts. “You’re okay with that, darling?”

Left to my own devices, I really might have looked like the Cinderella before her fairy godmother showed up.

Nora finishes by adding that my gown and a woman from the shop will arrive an hour in advance. “Any specific foods or beverages you’d like to have in the room?”

“Chocolate. Everything on the menu.”

She smiles. “Consider it done.”

“Along with an assortment of other snacks,” Link amends.

“Absolutely, Mr. Merritt. Any questions before we take our places?”

When no one speaks up, she nods. “Tessa, you can go out into the hallway.”

“Absolutely not,” Pax replies.

The woman blinks at his quick, ruthless response. Even I’m taken aback.

“Tessa can wait at the back of the room.”

“Of course.”

Cupping my elbow, Pax guides me to a spot near the door. “Don’t go outside.”

“Torin and Mira are here, though.”

“But they’re the only ones close.”

How many people are needed for him to feel secure?

“Tell me you understand.”

Even though he’s overreacting, I nod.

“Thank you.”

He’s as demanding as Link, and yet totally different at the same time.

A few minutes later, I’m walking down the aisle toward them, and they look at me expectantly, even though it’s just practice.

The reverend says, “At the end I’ll pronounce you married. Would you like me to announce the reception?”

Nora responds. “It’ll be in the Sky Ballroom.”

“Perfect. At that point, I’ll introduce you to the guests as Mr. and Mrs. Merritt, if that’s okay?”

I haven’t even considered whether to change my name or not.

“That’s fine,” Link replies, a possessive growl in his voice, as if daring anyone to contradict him.

If it’s a battle I want to fight, I’ll do it later.

“And then you can make your way back up the aisle.”

“Will you be having a receiving line?” Nora asks.

“Yes.”

Link seems to want every single piece of a traditional wedding ceremony. I’d be okay without any of them.

After we wrap up, Link tells me he’s arranged for me to enjoy a spa day. “Facial, massage, manicure, pedicure.”

“I’ve actually never had any of those.”

“First of many.”

Mira and Torin are off for several hours since they’ll be providing security all night. And I’m introduced to two female agents who will be in the spa with me.

“Unobtrusively,” Pax adds.

If that’s possible.

I’m treated to an amazing, relaxing massage with hot stones, easing tension from my shoulders and neck.

Hours later, I’ve had a light lunch, my fingernails are buffed and shaped, and my toes are painted a pale shade of pink. The color is neutral enough to go with my shoes and wedding dress, but it will also complement the sundresses Link bought me.

Afterward I take my host’s suggestion and head for the private pool. I’m the only one there, so I snag one of the cabanas and stretch out on a luxuriously padded chaise.

I’m wrapped in one of the spa’s robes, eyes closed beneath the overhead fan. Because of it and the palm trees, the temperature feels perfect, relaxing.

“Champagne, ma’am?”

I open my eyes to see Link standing there, a glass of bubbly in hand.

Pushing myself up on my elbows, I look at him. “What are you doing here?”

“Making sure everything’s okay.”

“Perfect. Thank you for today.” Otherwise I might have spent the entire afternoon worrying, pacing, a bundle of nerves.

He places the glass on a table next to me, alongside the glass of water that has cucumber floating in it. I have to admit, the bubbly sounds much more appealing.

As he turns to leave, he bends to drop a kiss on my lips.

In that instant, all the memories from last night flood back, leaving me breathless.

“Only a few hours until the world knows you’re mine.” Everything he says turns me inside out.

After he leaves, I leisurely sip my beverage, and I half doze until my phone chimes with the alarm I set.

I have just enough time to return to our suite to take a quick shower.

Pax insists on accompanying me to the bridal room.

There’s a table off to the side that has an entire platter of croissant sandwiches cut into halves, a cheese and meat tray, and a tower filled with chocolate desserts.

As if that wasn’t enough, there are bowls filled with wrapped, bite-size chocolates.

There’s water, tea, a coffee service, and the ingredients for mimosas.

This hotel goes over the top on everything. Or is it just for certain people? A billionaire like Link Merritt who personally knows the owner?

Along with a private bathroom, the space has a plush sofa and several chairs, probably for ladies with their own entourage. I wish I had someone. Anyone.

“What number do you press for me?” Pax asks me.

Resisting the impulse to sigh, I say, “Two. One for Link. Three for Hawkeye.”

“Or you can scream.” He shrugs. “You’ll get more attention than you know what to do with.”

I grin. Then it fades quickly as I realize he’s not kidding.

Like Link had, he drops a kiss on my lips.

They’re both so commanding, self-assured.

“If you need anything, we’re only moments away.”

“I’ll be fine.”

He leaves, and I’m alone with Ariella—a Hawkeye agent—and the hair stylist. The makeup artist will evidently be here a little while later.

“Please,” I tell them both, “eat and drink. Otherwise it will go to waste.” Well, except for the bowl of chocolates.

Because the hair stylist wants to cause as little damage to her creation as possible, she has me change into a pale pink satiny robe that has the word Bride blazed across the back. Then she asks for a picture of my gown.

I appreciate how thoughtful she is, not just about what I want, but also the entire design.

Right as she’s about to start, there’s a soft knock.

Because I am not expecting anyone, I glance back at the Hawkeye agent.

“It’s clear, ma’am,” the woman assures me.

Does that mean that no random person can even get close?

“Surprise!” The door bursts open.

“Oh my God! Nat!” With a quick apology to the stylist, I jump out of the chair and rush to my friend, hugging her, laughing, demanding to know what she’s doing here.

“Link made me keep this a secret.”

Her being here fills me with comfort and joy, and I’ve never been more grateful to see anyone.

“He flew me and David in. Can you believe it?”

Tears sting my eyes.

All of a sudden, my day is brighter, and I know I’ll get through the next few hours. “How long are you here for?”

“Two full days after this. And your man put us up here. So luxe.”

“You look beautiful.” And she does, in a figure-hugging dress and earrings that actually match.

“It’s borrowed. A bit too small, but David isn’t complaining.” She giggles.

“It’s fabulous on you.”

“Thank you, darling,” she says, breaking the final word into two pieces, making it sound like dah-ling.

Then she pours mimosas for us and the stylist.

Ariella, unsurprisingly, refuses. But I can’t help but notice the way she eyes the brownies.

After replenishing the chocolate supply in front of me, Natalie chatters nonstop, about all kinds of different things, even pulling the hair stylist into the conversation. When she’s finished, Nat is equally engaging with the makeup artist.

“Lawd, Tess, you have to try this,” Natalie says, bringing over a decadent-looking chocolate truffle.

The rich, velvety sweetness melts on my tongue, and I close my eyes in bliss. “You’re going to have to roll me down the aisle if I eat any more of these.”

“Betting you will work off the calories later tonight,” she says with a wicked grin.

“Nat!” I protest, but I can’t help laughing. “You’re terrible!”

Remorseless, she refills mimosas all around.

Right on time, a woman from the bridal store arrives with my gown, shoes, and veil.

I slip on the sandals, and then she and Natalie help me into the dress.

Finally the stylist moves back in to attach the veil to my updo.

And we have almost half an hour to spare.

“My God,” Nat says. “You look like a princess. Truly, truly.”

“That’s sweet of you.”

“Honesty.”

She’s so sincere I almost believe her.

“Thank you. And thank you for being here.”

“I wouldn’t have missed it.”

Except for Natalie, everyone leaves. And the clock keeps moving forward.

Butterflies start to dance in my tummy.

There’s a knock on the door, and Ariella opens it, admitting a woman with a camera.

With tons of confidence, she strides over to me. “I’m Marcella. You must be the future Mrs. Merritt.”

Will I ever get used to thinking of myself in those terms?

“If you don’t mind, I’d like to take a few photos.”

“I’ll get out of here,” Natalie says.

“No, no.” Marcella shakes her head. “These are your memories, Tessa. I’m sure you’d like a few snaps with your friend.”

“I would.”

She gets several candids of me and Nat. Then she reviews them before nodding. “Thanks. They’re great.”

“Now I’ll get going.” Natalie gives me a quick hug. “I wish you a lifetime of happiness.”

“Thank you.” I have no real idea what that means. Since that awful event in the parking lot, I’ve been focused only on the next moment.

“I need to get to my seat. I promised David I wouldn’t leave him all alone.”

“I’m looking forward to meeting him.”

Marcella goes into work mode, posing me several different ways, standing, sitting, gazing into a mirror, sipping a mimosa.

Once more, she reviews her work. “These are what I was looking for.” She smiles. “Link’s a lucky man. See you in there.”

I’ve barely exhaled when the door opens again, and Link barges in.

Dressed in a tailored tuxedo, he’s glorious. Devilishly handsome and oh-so addicting.

“It’s bad luck to see the bride before the wedding,” I manage, even as my pulse races.

“I’ll take my chances.”

A minute ago, I was nervous, but now I’m swept up in him.

In several confident strides, he crosses to me, and he captures my shoulders.

“No fucking way was I waiting another minute to see you.” With that, he sweeps his gaze over me.

His riveting blue eyes are filled with adoration.

Or maybe I’m making that up.

But right now, I don’t care if I am.

“You’re stunning,” he murmurs, leaning in.

“Don’t wreck my makeup,” I warn. “I’ve spent four hours trying to look pretty for you.”

“Little dove, to light up the world, you just have to be in a room.”

Does he always know the right thing to say?

He looks back at the Hawkeye agent. “Leave us, please.”

“Wait!”

She stops and looks back at me. “Ma’am?”

“Take some brownies.”

“Some…?” She shakes her head. “I’m on duty.”

“For a few minutes, you’re not.”

Link inclines his head. “Sounds like my future wife gave an order.”

“But—”

“Take a brownie,” I tell her again. “At least one.”

She grins. “Thank you.” Before leaving, she breaks a piece of one and pops it in her mouth.

Moments later, we’re alone, and my pulse adds a few extra beats. “Link…”

“I figured you might be nervous.”

More so than I ever imagined.

“So I brought a gift.”

“No.” I shake my head. “You’ve already done too much, and?—”

“I insist.” He releases me and reaches into a pocket inside his tuxedo jacket and pulls out a lacy white garter. “Wear it for me?”

His gift and question fluster me.

In typical Link fashion, he doesn’t wait for an answer. Instead he lowers himself to one knee in front of me.

“What…?”

“Put your hands on my shoulders.” With that, he lifts the front of my gown. Then he strokes up the inside of my thighs.

“Link!”

“Such pretty panties. I’ll buy you dozens more like them,” he says, as if I haven’t protested.

Without warning, he dips inside the gusset and strokes my clit.

Desperately, I grab hold of his shoulders.

“Would you like an orgasm, little dove?”

Oh God . “No.” Yes.

“No?” he asks. “Then why are you getting wet for me?”

I don’t answer.

Can’t answer.

“So silky.” He continues his exquisite torment, sliding in and out, making me wetter with each slow stroke. Then he brushes over my clit with my own dampness.

“Oh…”

“Shall I stop?” He looks up at me.

“Link…”

He moves his hand away from my pussy, but he’s still inside my underwear.

I whimper.

“Tell me what you want.”

“More.”

“You want me to bring you off?”

Embarrassed, I squeeze my eyes shut.

“Yes.”

Once more, he brushes my clit, and I pitch forward. Desperately I hold onto him.

“Ask me for it, little dove. Beg me. Use your prettiest words.”

I’m scandalized. Horrified.

And needy enough to do what he demands. “Please.”

He parts my labia.

Gulping in a breath of air, I manage, “I…”

He makes a lazy, gentle circle on my clit. It’s enough to drive me mad and not enough for anything else.

“Time is ticking.”

As if I need to be reminded that the ceremony will start momentarily.

“Shall I stop?” But he slides inside again, reminding me what I’ll be missing out on if I agree. “Little dove?”

“Keep going,” I plead.

“You know what I want to hear.”

Is the beast seriously going to make me beg?

Maddeningly he stops all his movements.

And I’m desperate enough that I may give into his terrible demand. “Please,” I whisper again.

Confounding man does nothing.

I sigh. Then because I’m throbbing with desire, and I know I’ll think of nothing else until we’re back in our suite tonight, I repeat myself. “Please. Please, Link. I want you to make me come. I’m pleading with you. I want this.”

Gently he touches me.

“I want you.”

“Oh, little dove. How dangerous you’d be if you knew your power over me.”

Focused on only me, he continues what he was doing, as if we have hours to spare.

Within seconds, though, I’m on the edge. “Link…”

“Tell me.” His voice is guttural, demanding.

“I’m about to climax.”

He leans in and moves the crotch of my panties to the side to lick me as he continues to finger-fuck me.

Stunned, I glance down to see the top of his head as he arouses me.

The eroticism of the moment, the licking, tasting… Everything is too much.

Weak, I bend my knees, opening myself more, begging now without words.

“That’s it.”

His breath is hot, and his tongue is pure pleasure. Suddenly a swirling inferno engulfs me.

“Come for me.” He slides a second finger alongside the first.

That sensation, along with his mouth, are too much.

I tighten my grip on him. He’s made me forget everything but him and this moment, and I’m all but fucking his face.

An orgasm ricochets through me, igniting all of my nerve endings.

He helps me to ride it before he gently eases from inside me. Then he places a whisper of a kiss on my lower belly.

Even that is enough to ripple aftershocks through my system.

“Pick up your foot.”

Since I’m reeling from what we shared, it takes a moment for his words to filter through my haze.

When he taps my ankle, his instruction finally takes hold. He moves my foot onto his thigh.

I obey, and he slips the garter up my leg and settles it on my thigh. Then he nips the sensitive skin above it, making me yelp.

“Link!”

Apparently satisfied, he flips my dress back into place. Then I lower my foot.

He stands but thankfully keeps his hands on my waist until I stop swaying.

“Your panties are damp. You have two choices. Leave them that way or take them off and give them to me.”

Speechless, I gape.

“Or I’ll make the choice for you.”

“I’ll keep them on,” I say quickly.

“That’s unfortunate.” My wicked husband-to-be grins.

His eyes intent with purpose, he leans in close, then closer, and he pulls me against him.

His kiss is demanding. He tastes of determination and my climax.

I’ve never experienced anything like this. It’s hot. Erotic. Dirty.

He ruins my lipstick and leaves the room spinning.

“In case you still had any doubts that you belong to me,” he murmurs.

Then he’s gone, leaving me breathless and tingling all over.

With my hand shaking, I touch up my lipstick as best I can.

Before I’m quite ready, Nora arrives, her trusty pad in hand. Another woman who is carrying my bouquet accompanies her. Ariella re-enters the room right behind them.

As I smooth the front of my skirt, I blush. Does everyone know what I—what we—have been up to?

“Your gown is perfect on you,” Nora enthuses.

“Eloise is amazing.”

Nora waves away my words. “The bride makes the dress.” When I start to protest, she goes on, “Why else would we need models?”

She adjusts my veil, then takes the flowers from the assistant and hands them to me.

The arrangement is gorgeous and bigger than I could have imagined, and I am grateful to have something to occupy my hands.

“Link and Pax”—Nora checks her watch—”will be entering the chapel in one minute.”

Which means it’s time for us to leave.

Taking a deep breath, I nod.

“You do look amazing, ma’am,” Ariella says.

“Thank you for everything.” Especially for not saying anything when Link stormed in here.

Right on time, we arrive at the Sky Chapel.

The grooms’ arrival song ends, and there’s a pause.

“This is your moment,” Nora says.

The opening notes of “A Thousand Years” begin.

At the front of the room, facing me, stands Link, Pax, and Reverend Clara.

“Please stand for the bride,” Clara says.