BIANCA
“Why do you always get to pick what she wears?” Vincent asked as he crossed his arms over his chest and stared at Dominic. He’d come over last night and watched movies with us, his eyes more glued to me than the screen.
I’d almost wished Dominic had made a move then, but he hadn't. Instead, the guys had ended up drinking and talking about stupid shit, like cars and guns, while I’d fallen asleep to the sounds of some cheesy chick flick playing in the background.
“Because you’d have her dressed like a princess when she’s a queen,” Dominic muttered as he pulled a black, lace dress from his closet and studied it.
I shook my head at him. He treated me like a doll. I dressed in a pair of skinny jeans and an old, ripped-up Alice Cooper band tee this morning, and the vein in Dominic's neck looked like it was near bursting as his face reddened.
I'd changed into a cashmere sweater and a baby pink skirt to get him to relax and stop bitching so much. If I were being honest though, Dominic was growing on me. I enjoyed pissing him off as much as I enjoyed when he hauled me into his arms and forced me to submit.
I still hadn't given in on having sex though. When he’d bathed me yesterday, I nearly did. His touch was so gentle and sweet as he washed me. But he hadn't pushed for more, even though I was practically panting for it. Maybe that was his plan. To entice me. He was doing a damn good job of it.
“At least she'd be comfortable,” Vincent returned. “We’re going to the dip. She’s going to be in the woods. You can’t possibly want her in heels and a dress.”
“Then you underestimate me,” Dominic grunted, putting the black dress back into the closet and grabbing out a red one.
“I want to pick her clothes.”
“Unlikely.”
I could sense an argument brewing, so I spoke up, “I don’t mind if Vinny wants to pick out something for me this time.”
Dominic paused and looked over at me as Vincent grinned widely.
“No.”
“Dominic,” I said, sighing. I got up and approached him. “Please? Maybe a compromise?”
He narrowed his eyes at me. “I’m listening.”
I took it as a good sign. Dominic De Santis didn't negotiate. Ever. I seized the opportunity.
“How about you each pick something for me to wear? Then you both get to have me in what you want.” My desire to live what was left of my life peacefully motivated me to give in more than I would have a week ago.
Dominic stared over my head to nod to Vincent. “Fine. I’m agreeable.”
“Excellent. Where are the clown shoes?” Vincent called out, pushing past Dominic and going into the closet.
I moved in to drag Dominic’s attention from Vincent, who was excitedly rummaging through the closet. Placing my hands on his face, I brought his focus to me.
“Thank you.”
His hard glare softened as he surveyed me. I took the opportunity to go up on my tiptoes and place a soft kiss on his lips. He came to life beneath me and wrapped his arms around me, the red dress falling to the floor.
“Hey!” Vincent said, coming out of the closet with a skirt in his hands. “If he gets to kiss you then so do I.”
“No,” Dom growled, nipping at my bottom lip.
“Listen, fucker—”
I laughed and eased away from Dominic, feeling more at ease than I had in the last two weeks. I went to Vincent. Before Dominic could reprimand me and tell me no, I kissed Vincent. It happened so fast he didn't have time to react as I snagged the skirt out of his fingers and danced away.
“Tease,” Vincent said, all sulky.
Dominic smiled and went back in the closet to dig around. I tossed the skirt on the bed and moved to sit in front of the small vanity. With a practiced touch, I dotted on moisturizer and began my makeup since I knew Dominic would want me to do it. He was much easier to get along with when I complied.
And right now, I wanted a little peace. I’d piss him off some other time. The last thing I wanted was to kneel on the hard patio like he'd made me do last time there was a party at the dip.
“Perfect,” Dominic said, coming out of the closet with a black, off-the-shoulder top and a pair of black boots.
“Why do you get to pick two things?” Vincent demanded, frowning as Dominic dropped the items on the bed next to the skirt.
“Because you weren't smart enough to? Snooze you lose.”
“Man—”
“Vinny, you can pick out my underwear,” I called out, knowing damn well that would please him.
He immediately shut up and went to the dresser drawer.
Instead of arguing, Dominic approached me and rested his hands on my shoulders, his gaze locked on mine in the mirror.
My heart jumped in my chest as we stared at one another. Damn, he was beautiful. And maddening. God, was he maddening.
Dominic leaned down and whispered, “You’re a sneaky little thing, aren't you, wasp?” His lips brushed against my ear.
Goosebumps flittered over my skin. “Is that a problem?”
“Not for me,” he said, his breath feathering over my skin. “But it will be for you later.”
I swallowed hard but didn't get to pursue questioning him because Vincent came over and showed me the lacy, black panties he’d picked out.
“I want these when you’re done,” he said coyly, winking at me.
“What for?” I stared down at the scrap in his hands.
He shrugged. “The nights get lonely with Dom hogging you.”
I suppressed a laugh and went back to doing my makeup. I tuned out the guys as they chatted. It wasn't until I heard Levin’s name mentioned that I perked up and began listening.
“Has he said anything?” Vincent asked.