Chapter 10

Evelyn glanced at Alexander Kensington discreetly, only to find his dark gaze already fixed upon her. She didn't know how long he'd been watching. Caught red-handed, heat rushed to her cheeks.

"Any other plans tonight?" Alexander murmured, his proximity sending flutters through Evelyn's stomach.

The stubborn streak in her bones refused to let her retreat. Meeting his obsidian eyes, she forced her voice steady. "If you recall, Mr. Kensington, tonight happens to be our wedding night. What other arrangements could I possibly have?"

Evelyn pretended nonchalance, but her fingers dug into her knees, betraying her nerves.

Alexander's lips twitched. "Excellent." When he straightened, Evelyn exhaled - though relief remained elusive.

The car halted unexpectedly at a luxury spa's entrance rather than his private residence. Golden signage glowed warmly against the night.

Noticing her confusion, Alexander anticipated her question. "Today's events left little time for proper preparations."

"That's quite alright," Evelyn murmured. Their marriage was transactional after all - no need for pomp. Yet when she saw the rose-petaled restaurant interior, genuine emotion tightened her throat.

The expansive dining room held only two seats. Staff maintained discreet distance, clearly instructed to preserve privacy. Alexander had reserved the entire establishment - impressive even for his influence, given the short notice.

"Relax," he said, slicing into his steak with effortless grace. "The press won't disturb us here."

"Th-thank you, Alex." Normally articulate, Evelyn found herself tongue-tied.

Alexander stilled, raising an eyebrow. "For?"

"For honoring our agreement. And... all this." However impulsive their union, Evelyn felt no regret.

A rare chuckle escaped Alexander as he transferred perfectly cut steak to her plate. "You may have more to thank me for later."

The suite's private hot tub steamed invitingly when they arrived. Evelyn's pulse quickened at the implication. Flushed, she busied herself with a water ss in the kitchenette.

Noticing her tension, Alexander retrieved wine sses instead. "Join me?"

Initially refusing, Evelyn reconsidered - perhaps liquid courage would help. She'd exhausted her boldness proposing this arrangement.

Their sses clinked. Evelyn gulped hers recklessly, coughing when the alcohol burned her throat.

Alexander laughed softly, patting her back. "I'll soak first. Take your time." His retreat gave her space to reconsider.

Instead, Evelyn downed another ss. Then another. Half the bottle later, warmth spread through her limbs. Through the haze, she saw Alexander's silhouette in the tub - broad shoulders glistening, muscles defined by water droplets.

Dry-mouthed, she approached. Alexander didn't turn, granting her this choice.

Decision made, Evelyn shed her outer layers. The hot water prickled her skin as she slid in beside him. Suddenly sober, she crossed her arms self-consciously. Nathaniel had never seen her like this - their relationship hadn't progressed beyond chaste kisses.

Their proximity made the water seem cooler by comparison. Alexander cupped her chin, forcing eye contact. "Last chance to back out."

Evelyn answered by crashing her lips against his, the metallic tang of blood blooming where teeth met flesh. Actions spoke louder than words.

In this world of calculated exchanges, she'd pay whatever price necessary.

Alexander needed no further invitation. What began in the tub continued as he carried her to bed, Evelyn's damp hair fanning across the sheets like spilled ink. Her lashes fluttered against flushed cheeks - a vision of surrender.