Chapter 473

Vivian's breath came in soft gasps as she whispered, "I'm exhausted," her voice laced with playful exhaustion.

Adrian's gaze softened momentarily before darkening with raw hunger that threatened to consume them both.

Without hesitation, he lifted her effortlessly, the delicate silk of her sleepwear riding up to reveal legs as smooth as polished marble, glowing in the dim bedroom light.

He lowered her onto the bed with deliberate care, his rough fingers tracing a path from her ankle upward, exploring every curve of her toned thigh.

His touch sent electric currents through her body, the contrast between his calloused hands and her soft skin making her shiver. As he fumbled with the intricate ties of her pajamas, frustration flickered across his face.

After two failed attempts, Adrian gave up on finesse, tearing the delicate fabric apart with a single decisive motion.

The sound of ripping silk hung in the air, charged with primal energy.

Never one to miss an opportunity, Vivian arched an eyebrow. "That was limited edition, darling. Imported from Paris."

Adrian's low chuckle vibrated through her as he countered, "I'll replace it with twenty more."

His breathing had grown ragged, his intense stare making her skin prickle with anticipation.

The torn garment revealed more than just her body - it unveiled her uninhibited confidence.

Her raven-black hair cascaded over her shoulders, partially obscuring her form like shadows playing across a moonlit landscape.

She appeared both delicate and untamed, a paradox that left him momentarily breathless.

Under his scorching gaze, Vivian felt a rare moment of vulnerability before quickly masking it with practiced ease.

With deliberate slowness, she lifted one leg and draped it over his shoulder, her toes brushing his earlobe with teasing precision. Adrian's control shattered.

The metallic clink of his belt buckle filled the room as he freed himself from restraint.

When Vivian tried to lower her leg, he caught her ankle, holding her in place with possessive certainty.

Then, to her surprise, he pressed a reverent kiss to the arch of her foot - a gesture so unexpectedly tender it sent warmth flooding through her veins.

The moment felt sacred, like a knight paying homage to his queen.

This simple act awakened something deep within her, an emotion too complex to name but impossible to ignore.

As Adrian finally claimed her, his lips traced a burning path along her collarbone, each kiss a silent vow, each nip a promise.

His hot breath against her neck made her pulse race, their breathing synchronizing in perfect harmony.

His eyes drank in the sight of his marks on her skin - a constellation of passion that filled him with primal satisfaction.

His hands mapped every curve of her body with possessive precision, as if committing her to memory.

When his fingers brushed her waist, he marveled at how perfectly she fit against him. Vivian's eyes fluttered open, locking with his in a moment of startling clarity. Her gaze, bright with unshed tears, seemed to see straight into his soul.

A sudden wave of uncertainty washed over her, a reminder of the fragile foundation beneath their passion. In this moment of intimacy, she couldn't help but voice the question burning in her heart. "Have you ever kept anything from me?" Her voice held no accusation, only a quiet yearning for truth.

Adrian froze. The recent deception he'd maintained echoed in his mind. His heart stuttered as he answered too quickly, "Never."