Part III

“Remind me to celebrate my birthday more often,” Issac murmured as he wrapped a towel around Astasiya’s shoulders. Her lips were beautifully swollen and her eyes drowsily sated. “You’re gorgeous, love.”

“Sweet talker.” She grabbed a towel for him as well and took great care in drying his chest and abs.

He grinned down at her. “And you call me insatiable.”

“What? A woman is allowed to admire.” She kissed him carefully on the cheek before stepping away. “Now that your breakfast is cold, let’s go make another one.”

He caught sight of Balthazar still in the kitchen. “Our host is already working on it.” And it seemed she was right about having guests. Alik and Lucian were seated at the counter, both with plates in front of them.

Issac pulled on a pair of grey pants and a dress shirt that he rolled to the elbows while Astasiya watched him with a bemused expression. She’d thrown on a pair of jean shorts and a tank top.

“What?” he asked at her continued look.

“It’s over ninety degrees outside and you’re dressed for work.”

He pulled a pair of shoes from the closet before saying, “This is how I dress.”

“Do you own a pair of shorts?”

“Actually, yes. I do.” He set down his shoes and opened a drawer to show her his beach attire. “Happy?”

“I’ll be happier if you put those on with a pair of sandals.”

He grimaced at the wardrobe choice. “No.”

She wrapped her arms around his waist. “Please?”

Issac couldn’t believe this was what she chose to beg him on. “You wish for me to dress casually?”

Astasiya nodded, her green eyes imploring. “Please?” she repeated.

Suspicion trickled into his thoughts. She never cared about his attire. “Why?”

“Because I want you to be comfortable.”

“I’m comfortable as I am.”

“Right now, but you’ll thank me later if you change now.”

His eyes narrowed. “Why? What have you planned?”

“Not me…” Her eyes sparkled as she trailed off.

Oh, hell. He knew that look, and it could only mean one thing. “They’re throwing a beach party because it’s my birthday.” The damn Hydraians would use any excuse to celebrate. “Fuck.”