I covered my face with my hands. Noelle, what the hell are you thinking?
At five sharp, the styling team arrived. They redid my makeup and curled my hair into soft waves, pinning it to one side to expose my neck and ear.
"Time for the dress, ma'am."
I stood as they lifted the gown from the box and couldn't help but gasp.
Deep crimson velvet flowed with rich luster under the lights. The plunging V-neck extended to my chest, sleeveless and figure-hugging, with a high slit that climbed nearly to my thigh.
This dress was far too sexy.
"This is really for tonight?" I hesitated.
"Yes, ma'am," Darya replied. "The boss chose it himself."
I bit my lip but finally let them help me into it.
The dress fit perfectly, clinging to every curve. The velvet was soft and smooth against my skin, but made me feel wrapped in some kind of dangerous temptation.
"The zipper's in back, ma'am. Let me help you."
"You can all leave."
Kholod's voice suddenly came from the doorway. I turned around in shock. He was leaning against the doorframe, those amber eyes fixed directly on me. More precisely, on my reflection in the mirror wearing the half-zipped dress.
"Yes, boss." Darya and the stylists quickly packed up and filed out, thoughtfully closing the door.
Only the two of us remained in the room.
"Turn around," he commanded.
"What?"
"Turn around." He walked in, voice low. "I'll zip you up."
My heart instantly accelerated.
"I can do it myself—"
"Noelle." He cut me off. "Turn around."
I bit my lip and obeyed.
Through the mirror, I could see him move behind me, his long fingers gripping the zipper pull.
"Lift your hair."
I swept my long hair to one side as instructed.
He began pulling slowly upward, the metal teeth catching one by one with soft whispers. His knuckles occasionally brushed against my bare spine. Every touch sent shivers through me.
"Could you go a bit faster..." My voice trembled involuntarily.
"Why rush?" He whispered in my ear, warm breath fanning my neck. "I'm enjoying this process."
"You..."
"Such smooth skin." His voice dropped even lower, carrying dangerous implications. "Makes me reluctant to let go."
