The Greek Rule (The Greek Series) Read Free

sky and cool spring breeze of the night.
    A deep masculine voice sounded behind her, shattering her solitude. “You’re an extraordinarily talented and beautiful woman, Athena. Did I mention you look like a true Greek goddess tonight?”
    Heat burned her cheeks and she turned to face Alexandros. She’d avoided looking into his sultry eyes all evening, only to find herself on a moonlit terrace, the single recipient of his searing attention.
    Dropping her gaze to his strong Grecian nose, then to the sure line of his lips and the defined jaw that met his proud chin, she could not deny he was a very good-looking man. He radiated strength and confidence in every step.
    Taking a deep breath, she reminded herself that not only was he standing between her and her future, but men such as Alexandros were emotionally off limits to her. No matter how tempting, she had vowed not to become involved with his type. She would never risk the humiliation of a broken heart again.
    “Mr. Strintzaris, I hope you’re enjoying the ball.” She pressed her hands to her stomach. “I would like to thank you personally for your very generous contribution.”
    Whom was she trying to fool, speaking to him in this cool manner?
    He removed his jacket and gently wrapped it around her shoulders. “It’s a little chilly. You’re shivering.”
    Was he that dense to believe the sweet night air had made her shiver, or was he looking for an excuse to come near her? Either way, accepting the jacket put him in very close proximity. The jacket retained his body heat and his scent. Athena settled into it.
    She gasped when he leaned forward and brushed back a tendril of hair that blew across her face. The chemistry between them was exceptional, something she had never experienced before. Still, she took a step back. Intimidated by her own delight in his closeness, she wasn’t sure how to respond.
    “Athena, why have you been avoiding me?”
    Overwhelmed by his ardor, she inched further away. “Excuse me, Mr. Strintzaris?”
    “Alexandros. Call me Alexandros. You know our relationship is more than calling me Mr. Strintzaris. We are practically related. Yet, you do not contact me about a donation, and you do not approach me tonight. You have been avoiding me.” His dark eyes said more than his controlled words.
    “You’re a friend of Mr. Giardetti. There was no need for me to approach you.”
    “I’m your best friend’s future brother-in-law.” He stepped closer to her, but didn’t touch her. “Or have you forgotten that Heather is engaged to a certain Costa Strintzaris, who just happens to be my brother?”
    Allowing a few inches between them in the balcony’s shadows, his gaze settled on hers, but he didn’t wait for her to respond. “In less than a month, we will jointly witness Costa and Heather’s marriage. We’ll be their koumbaroi. I’m the best man, and you’re the maid of honor. I think I deserve to be on a first name basis with you, koukla mou , ” he finished with a term of possessive endearment in his native tongue.
    “It’s best to keep tonight on a professional level.” She pulled his jacket closed. This meeting was doing things to her body she’d rather keep concealed.
    “No, it’s not best . Professional is not enough.”
    “Costa and Heather send their regards,” Athena relayed mechanically after a long pause.
    “I’m sure the message wasn’t so unfeeling and cold. In Greek, we say love and kisses.” He lowered his intense gaze to her lips, adding with a husky undertone, “And you are a Greek. You know better.”
    She struggled to maintain her composure as he stared at her mouth.
    “If you want me to go, just say so,” he breathed against her lips.
    Her mouth betrayed her protesting mind as it opened, and leaning forward, she touched her lips to his. Alexandros sealed their kiss, and their bodies came into intimate contact, setting fires deep inside her.
    Automatically, she snaked her arms around his neck and