Chapter 472

The playful teasing enveloped them like a cozy embrace, easing the lingering stress of the day.

Vivian wrinkled her nose, finding his smug expression more irritating than his usual aloof demeanor. This version of Adrian—playful and mischievous—was somehow more exasperating than his typical reserved self.

Adrian's gaze landed on a small velvet box resting on the side table. He lifted it, examining the delicate wrapping. "What's this? A little present for me?"

Crossing her arms, Vivian huffed. "For someone who's been particularly insufferable lately."

His lips curved into a wider grin, amusement dancing in his stormy gray eyes.

He carefully unwrapped the box, revealing a silk tie in deep emerald green. Holding it against his crisp white shirt, he tilted his head. "Well? Does it suit your taste?"

Vivian's breath caught as she took in the way the fabric complemented his sharp jawline. After a beat, she managed a quiet, "It... looks decent."

Adrian tucked the tie back into its box with surprising gentleness. "Perfect. I'll wear it to tomorrow's board meeting. You can help me with the knot."

Vivian stifled a yawn, her curiosity getting the better of her. "Why are you home so late? Where were you?"

Her tone was casual, but the way her sleep shirt slipped slightly as she tilted her head revealed a glimpse of collarbone that caught the light—and Adrian's attention.

He abruptly turned away, masking the flush creeping up his neck. "Just finishing some contracts," he muttered.

But Vivian, already losing interest, stretched with another yawn. "I'm going to shower and collapse. I've been exhausted lately—my body's practically screaming for rest."

As she turned, Adrian moved with panther-like grace, his arms encircling her waist and pulling her flush against him. His voice dropped to that low, teasing register that always made her pulse stutter. "You're ready for bed, and I haven't even had dinner."

She blinked up at him, confused. "You skipped dinner? What were you doing all evening? Want me to make you something? There's probably pasta in the—"

Adrian's gaze dropped to her lips, slightly parted and impossibly inviting. He leaned in until their breaths mingled. "I don't want pasta," he murmured, the words barely audible.

Before she could respond, his lips captured hers in a kiss that conveyed everything words couldn't—the longing, the affection, the unspoken promises.

The kiss deepened, slow and intoxicating. Vivian arched upward to meet him, but the angle strained her neck. She tried to pull away.

Adrian only tightened his grip, one hand sliding up her back to keep her close—eliminating any chance of escape.

Just as the intensity became almost overwhelming, Vivian felt Adrian's lips part slightly against hers...