Chapter 136

The bright glass window, bathed in soft light, resembled a transparent mirror. Vivienne watched as Derek gently dried her hair, his movements deliberate. His face, undeniably handsome, made even the simplest tasks seem mesmerizing. Even holding a hairdryer, he exuded effortless elegance and a natural nobility.

“If you keep looking at me like that, I won’t be able to resist,” Derek murmured, his hand holding a few strands of her wet hair. His voice, deep and smooth as velvet, stirred something within her.

Vivienne turned to glance at him, but before she could fully turn, his hand gently pressed her head back. “Don’t move.”

A comfortable silence settled between them, the hum of the hairdryer a soft backdrop to their stillness. Vivienne’s gaze wandered to the wardrobe. “Did you prepare all the clothes in the wardrobe?”

“Yes,” Derek replied, his tone steady. “This place will be yours sooner or later.” His words, simple yet certain, resonated deeply.

She turned, her mind racing. “Are you so sure?”

Derek turned off the hairdryer, the room growing quiet. His long fingers gently cupped her chin, tilting her face upward as his dark eyes locked onto hers. “Vivienne, you’ve caught my attention, and there’s no turning back.”

Vivienne’s lips parted, but before she could speak, his fingers pressed softly against them. “You can continue to doubt me,” he murmured, his voice low and certain. “But I have no problem cutting off all your escape routes to prove that, in this lifetime, you can only be mine.”

The dim light accentuated his sharp features. A faint smile played at his lips, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He exuded an air of danger, relentless and untamed. Yet Vivienne found herself drawn to him, leaning closer without conscious thought. Faced with such captivating allure, composure was impossible.

“I’ll prove it to you,” she murmured, her voice steady but determined.

Derek’s eyebrows arched, a knowing smile dancing in his eyes. “Prove what?”

Before he could finish, Vivienne wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him. Her lips, soft and warm, brushed against his in a delicate caress. Derek’s eyes widened slightly in surprise.

It was a fleeting kiss, but it left a lingering warmth. As she pulled away, the sensation evaporated, leaving him wanting more. He instinctively pressed his lips together, savoring the faint taste. His dark eyes locked with hers, revealing an unspoken need.

“You have to keep your word,” Vivienne said, her smile radiant and teasing. “For the rest of your life, no other woman but me.”

Derek’s eyes narrowed slightly, the restlessness in his heart fading.

“It’s late,” Vivienne added, hinting he should leave. “I should get some sleep.”

She stood, ready to retreat. But before she could move, his hand shot out, grabbing her wrist, pulling her back. Surprise crossed her face as she stumbled into his embrace. With a swift motion, he pinned her wrists to the bed, his presence overwhelming, his breath cool against her skin. His handsome face loomed closer, and before she could react, his lips crashed into hers in a passionate, commanding kiss.