I let him kiss me. I kissed him back. I practically melted in his arms like some helpless heroine in one of my romance novels. And the worst part? I loved every second of it. I still ache for more. My lips are tingling. My core is throbbing. I’m wet and restless and so damn confused.
I toss and turn for hours, the storm outside already stopped. At one point I even sit up, seriously considering walking through that connecting door and finishing what we started.
But I stop myself. That would be reckless. Dangerous. Stupid.
Eventually, exhaustion wins. I fall into a restless sleep, dreams filled with whiskey eyes, strong hands, and a mouth that knows exactly how to ruin me.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Eleonora
I wake up with my lips still tingling.
Even in the hazy early morning light, last night refuses to leave me alone.
Nico’s mouth on mine. The way he kissed me like he was claiming something he already owned. His hand on the back of my neck, fingers threading through my hair, the low growl that vibrated from his chest into mine.
I press my thighs together under the sheets, trying to ignore the persistent ache between my legs. I’m wet again just from remembering.
It’s still dark outside, the storm having calmed into a quiet drizzle. I slip out of bed, my bare feet cold against the floor.I need water. My throat feels dry, and my mind won’t stop spinning.
Surprisingly, when I try the bedroom door, it opens. No Daniel standing guard yet. He probably hasn’t started his shift, assuming I’d still be asleep. I move quietly down the stairs and into the kitchen, grab a cold bottle of water from the fridge, and drink deeply.
Instead of going back upstairs, I wander.
The house is silent and beautiful in the dim light. I know Nico told me not to roam, but it’s too early. He’s probably still asleep. What harm could a little walk do?
My feet carry me toward the east wing. I remember seeing a gym down here the other day. The door is slightly ajar. I push it open quietly and step inside.
And there he is.
Nico is on the treadmill, running at a punishing pace. Shirtless. Sweat glistens on his broad back and shoulders, tracing the lines as his muscles flex and coil with every stride.
A white bandage is wrapped tightly around his injured arm, already damp at the edges from sweat, but he moves like he doesn’t feel the pain at all
His workout shorts hang low on his hips, revealing that sharp V that disappears beneath the fabric. The sight is raw, masculine, and unfairly arousing.
I should leave. I should turn around right now.
But I stay hidden just inside the doorway, watching him like I have no self-control left.
He suddenly slows the treadmill and glances over his shoulder, catching me before I can hide.
A slow, dangerous smirk curves his lips. “Enjoying the view?”
Heat rushes to my face. I step fully into the room, trying to appear unbothered. “I was just walking around.”
“Sure you were.” He stops the machine completely and wipes his face with a towel, eyes never leaving mine.
“Shouldn’t you be resting your arm?”
He stares at his arm and gives a shake of his head. “Nah, it's nothing.”
I give a shake of my head.
“You can join, you know. Or are you just going to stand there staring?”
Ashamed but refusing to show it, I walk over to the treadmill next to his and step on. I start at a light jog, but Nico immediately increases his pace, challenging me. A competitive glint flashes in his eyes.
