Darius felt an ache grow in his gut as he watched Nathalie taste roe for what he guessed was her very first time. Her cheeks flushed as she chewed, savored, and swallowed, her tongue slipping out to lick away the excess. The delicacy had a rich, buttery, slightly salty flavor. Mama Martini was right on with the preparation—no adornment, no garnish.

Nathalie didn’t need fancy clothes or glittering jewelry, either. She shone all on her own. Shone so brightly that he wanted more and more from her by the second. Not just a dinner out. Not just one hot night. Darius wanted her to stay and fill the empty spots...