Chapter 96

Evelyn Carter bit her bottom lip, her heart pounding. Why was he asking her this? She gave a quick nod before turning her face away, unable to meet his gaze.

Alexander Kensington didn’t need words—her reaction told him everything. He stood, retrieving another towel from the rack, then carefully wrapped it around her trembling shoulders. A soft blanket followed, cocooning her in warmth.

The tenderness of his gesture startled her. Evelyn turned, her wide eyes searching his face. When he caught her staring, he leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.

But she stopped him, her fingers curling around his wrist. Her voice was still rough from earlier emotions. "What does this mean?"

Alexander looked down at her small hand gripping his. The way she held onto him made his chest tighten—as if she needed him more than she’d ever admit.

"Why?" she whispered, confusion lacing her tone.

"There’s no rush," he murmured, brushing a strand of damp hair from her face. "I’ll wait until you’re ready."

He had assumed, given her past with Dominic Reeves, that she was experienced. But tonight had shattered that assumption. The realization that she was still untouched sent an unexpected thrill through him—not out of possessiveness, but because it meant she had trusted him this much.

Alexander wasn’t a traditionalist. Her innocence didn’t matter to him, but her comfort did. Evelyn was clearly nervous, unprepared to take this step. Pushing her now would only hurt her, and that was the last thing he wanted.

Love was something to be savored, not rushed. He wouldn’t ruin this moment for fleeting desire.

But Evelyn misunderstood. His earlier question had made her think he was doubting her. Determination flared in her eyes as she tightened her grip on his hands. "I’m ready."

Her voice was firm, but her eyes betrayed her—wide with fear, like a deer caught in headlights.

Alexander exhaled, a soft chuckle escaping him. He settled beside her, pulling her into his arms. Gently, he tilted her chin up, forcing her to meet his gaze.

"Do you love me?" he asked, his voice low, searching her eyes for the truth.

The question caught her off guard. Evelyn hesitated, her breath hitching.

The silence stretched between them, heavy with unspoken words.