Chapter 267

Hayden's look ignited my body. I recalled teasing him last time, his attempts at composure. Lena's words echoed: "Hayden, have you ever been with anyone else?" He'd claimed no girlfriends, but I needed reassurance.

His gaze darkened. "...No."

That single word made my heart leap. "But do you want to?"

His jaw clenched, then darkness as his lips found mine. When his breathing hitched, I knew the answer. But he didn't push further; instead, he rested his forehead against mine. "How long are you going to keep testing me, or are you just trying to torture me?"

Seeing his restraint, the battle between desire and self-control, I touched his face. "Do you really want this? Is it only me?"

Jace's casual rejection still haunted me, its deep scar a painful reminder.

"Yeah," he panted, "only you."

I closed my eyes, feeling something within finally yield.

"Ki—"

I cut him off, kissing him, pulling him closer.

"Do you want to wait?" he asked, his voice tight with restraint.

"Wait for what?" I asked, my voice unsteady.

"For the day I marry you," he said, his eyes burning with intensity.

I met his gaze. "If you're not sincere, even marriage won't stop you from hurting me."

"I won't," he whispered, kissing my nose softly. "I'd never betray you."

He made a promise, but I'd stopped believing in promises long ago. Jace had made promises too, yet ended up with someone else. More people divorce daily than marry. Promises are fragile things.

Tonight, I wanted Hayden because I felt something real. A future? We'll see. If not, I won't be shattered. The greatest pain comes from expecting too much and receiving too little.

Chapter 268