Chapter 386

From the beginning, he only wanted her willingness. However, his desires grew. He wanted her to like him more, to prefer him above all other men. He couldn't even tolerate the possibility of her future with anyone else. The thought filled him with jealousy—a feeling he only understood because of her.

Grace looked at Jason intently. His hand, warm against her cheek, brought back vivid memories of their time together. Despite her lingering fear, she realized she might like him, as he'd suggested in the car. Perhaps she liked him as Jay.

"Do you really want me to like you?" she whispered.

"Yes," he replied instantly.

"What are your feelings? Do you think I'm just a novelty, a game?" She finally voiced her deepest concern.

His eyes darkened, and he sneered. "If I only saw you as a game, I wouldn't have done all this!"

He cupped the back of her head, pulling her closer. "I've had few people to love, perhaps only my father. You're the only one left. Tell me, how should I feel about you?"

Pang! Pang! Pang! Her heart pounded.

Grace gently touched his cheeks, seeking to better understand his presence.

His body stiffened. He gazed into her eyes with wonder, excitement, and longing.

"I like you, Jay." It was her first confession since learning his true identity.

The next morning, Grace awoke to find Jason sitting at the edge of her bed. Dressed in a white shirt and beige pants, the morning sun illuminated him, making him resemble a fairytale prince. Their eyes met.

"Are you awake?" His voice was smooth and elegant.

She sat up, startled. "What are you doing here?"

"I need to check something," he said, leaning forward to gently tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "That's why I came early."

"What do you need to check?" Her mouth went dry. His proximity was overwhelming; his eyes, breath, and voice were intoxicating.

"You said you liked me last night, remember?" he murmured.

Her face flushed, and last night's memories flooded back. "I remember," she whispered, biting her lip.