Chapter 48

Calliope sat on the edge of her seat, listening intently to the sound of water running in the bathroom. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the door creaked slightly as Silas stepped out. Calliope’s heart almost leaped into her throat. When Silas settled on the edge of the bed, she took a deep breath, made a split-second decision, and flicked off the lamp.

In a rush of adrenaline, she launched herself at Silas, landing squarely on his chest. The warmth of his skin sent a jolt through her, and her nerves heightened with the intimate contact. She could feel his heartbeat pounding just as fiercely as hers, a steady rhythm echoing in the room. Her hands fumbled awkwardly across Silas’s torso; it was her first time, and her inexperience left her flustered and clumsy.

Silas’s body tensed. He hadn’t expected her sudden boldness, the way she had impulsively turned off the lights and thrown herself at him. Unsure, he remained still, cautious not to accidentally hurt her. Her small hands roamed over him, sparking a wildfire beneath his skin, and he felt his entire being ignite. His breathing grew heavier, and with a voice thick with emotion, he asked, “What are you doing?”

“Isn’t this what married people do?” Calliope’s voice was a mix of nerves and determination as she lay sprawled across him.

Silas caught her wandering hands. “Is this what you want?”

“Isn’t this what you want?” Calliope replied, a hint of hurt in her voice. “Last time… you didn’t come home. Were you mad at me?”

“I’m not,” Silas assured her, frowning slightly as he heard the vulnerability in her words. She thought he was mad! How could he ever be mad at her? He could never bring himself to be angry with her.

Calliope paused. “But you didn’t come back for days. You didn’t text or call… I thought you were upset.” Her voice dripped with grievance.

“I could never be angry over something like that. I didn’t call or text because I was caught up with work and couldn’t get away. Didn’t I mention I had to go on a business trip?” Silas explained, his voice gentle and low.

Calliope went silent. Alright, she misunderstood. So… Did he think she was some sort of insatiable temptress now? Embarrassment flooded her, and she tried to wriggle away from Silas, but his grip on her hand held firm. She started to move, but barely made it an inch away.

“Silas, I–I made a mistake!” Calliope admitted, her nerves getting the better of her.

“Too late. You’ve started something you can’t just walk away from.” He leaned in closer, and with a swift motion, he had her pinned beneath him. He was inches away, his voice hoarse, the air between them charged with an electric tension as his kiss descended upon her.

Caught off guard, Calliope found herself swept away by the kiss, unable to pull back. Silas’s large hands wrapped around her waist, holding her firmly yet tenderly. The kiss deepened, and soon both of them were breathless. Calliope felt herself growing warmer under his touch, her initial resistance melting away as the man commenced in dominating their movements.

“Callie, try to hold on. I can’t control it any longer,” he whispered, his voice husky in her ear. With that, Calliope surrendered to the moment, letting Silas take the lead, unable to resist but surprisingly willing to embrace the experience he offered. Silas, despite his own escalating desire, was mindful of her response, ensuring she felt as comfortable as possible.

Chapter 49