Chapter 239

I needed an excuse… My phone buzzed, two messages from Lena. A GIF loaded—a woman, fresh from the shower, posed seductively in a skimpy nightgown. Lena’s not-so-subtle advice followed: “[You should try this].” I sent back a facepalm emoji. Even silently cursing Lena's audacity, I couldn't deny the idea's potential. I just needed the right excuse to show Hayden this side of me.

Still brainstorming, I showered. Using Cole's information was out; Hayden would see through it. Feigning a plumbing problem was also impossible—I couldn't deliberately break something. Then, a thought: I could say I was hungry and ask him to cook.

Decision made, I finished showering and slipped into a sexy nightgown, rarely worn. I’d bought it when Jace and I were engaged, envisioning a shared future. Ironically, Jace never saw it; now Hayden would. I checked my reflection—the black silk clung to me, the contrast with my pale skin striking. I looked undeniably attractive.

Knock, knock! It was late—who could it be? Hayden? His timing was impeccable, far easier than inventing a lame excuse to find him. But why was he here so late? Could he be thinking what I was? My cheeks burned. I patted my face, checked my reflection one last time, and opened the door. “Who is it?”

“It’s me. I made you some flaxseed oatmeal with mixed berries,” Hayden's deep, calm voice answered. I swallowed, suddenly nervous. I glanced at my reflection, took a deep breath, and subtly lowered the strap of my nightgown before opening the door. “Perfect timing. I was just getting hungry,” I said casually.

Hayden stood there, oatmeal in hand, his eyes taking me in. I watched his Adam's apple bob as he swallowed.

Chapter 239

It's working! Four words flashed through my mind, but I played it cool, teasing him with a smile. “You’ve really got that perfect boyfriend vibe going on.” He looked away, handing me the oatmeal. His ears reddened, and I felt a wicked urge to push him further. I almost felt guilty for teasing him… almost.

As he passed the bowl, I grazed his fingers. The bowl wobbled slightly. He steadied it, his eyes locking onto mine. His usually soft gaze held a new intensity, a fire starting to burn. Heat surged through me—this was trouble. I tried to pull my hand away, but Hayden held on.