"I love you," he gulped. I kissed him again, letting him know that I understood. "You know, right?" his eyes held layers of unwavering fear and doubt. Of what, I didn't know.

"Are you sure about this?" I asked him. It was his party, but he could leave if he wanted to. "We can go home and spend time on your bed," I teased.

"I can't," he cleared his throat and then tightened the tie around his neck.

"Do you want me to go home?" his head snapped towards my direction.

"You would go if I asked?"

"Anthony, I know there is something wrong. I can feel it in my gut, but I don't want to run. I want to face it with you by my side." I breathed. "But if you want me to leave, I will."

"G.o.d, I love you." His features relaxed, and a smile appeared on his lips. The light tap on the window alerted us. I rolled the window down and looked at the valet who was waiting patiently.

"We'll be parking the car ourselves. No one should know that we have arrived." He nodded and then moved back to his position. Michael looked surprised, but he didn't comment. I chuckled under my breath as I started the engine again.

"Care for a quickie in the back seat?" I offered, mostly teasing.

"No, thanks. I'd rather not let my business a.s.sociates smell you on me. I don't like people having inappropriate thoughts about my wench." He stifled a laugh as he looked away.

"Always a romantic." I rolled my eyes.

"Park the car, wench."

"Yes, my lord."