Chapter 31

“Vivienne.” Derek’s deep, smooth voice felt like a whispered secret, stirring her heart.

Vivienne’s lips pressed together as she locked eyes with Derek, his gaze unfathomably deep. A slight smile played on his lips as he looked into her eyes with an intensity she found inexplicable. “Do you want to join me in my room tonight?”

Surprised by his boldness, Vivienne’s expression turned cold. “That’s presumptuous! We’re hardly at a point where sharing a bed is appropriate!”

“I assumed your being in my room meant something more,” he replied, his smile widening at her flustered reaction. “Remember, it’s just the two of us here, and I am, after all, just a man.”

Vivienne’s anger melted, leaving her startled and embarrassed. “Wait, this is your room?”

Derek caught her surprised expression, a flicker of realization crossing his features. He’d accidentally sabotaged his grandmother’s well-meaning plan. His grandmother had insisted he stay here tonight for a reason—a plot involving both Vivienne and himself. Knowing Margot’s desire for more family heirs, Derek realized his mistake in acting too hastily.

He looked away and said quietly, “I’ll take the room next door tonight, if that’s alright with you.”

“Let me take the next room instead.”

Vivienne felt a twinge of discomfort as Derek courteously offered her his room. She turned to leave.

Derek quickly stepped in, blocking her path with his arm. Leaning closer, his faint yet captivating scent surrounded her as he pulled her into a close embrace. His deep eyes, as dark as a starless night, locked onto hers. “Vivienne, what are we, exactly?”

Their closeness allowed them to share each breath and the rhythm of their heartbeats. Looking up, Vivienne’s eyes met his, sparking an undeniable connection that held her captive. Her heart pounded wildly. She furrowed her brow and looked away, choosing silence.

“Hmm?” he whispered, his gaze intensifying as it fell on her tightly drawn lips. His voice, deep and slightly hoarse, slipped into her ears. “Vivienne, won’t you answer me?”

Heat rushed to Vivienne’s ears. Drawing in a steadying breath, she masked her fluster. “We should allow things to unfold naturally. Haste diminishes value.”

“And?” Derek arched an eyebrow, his interest piqued.

Vivienne’s nerves fluttered, yet she steadied her voice. “Didn’t you once say that winning a woman’s heart calls for sincerity, humility, initiative, thoughtfulness, and unwavering commitment? Have you forgotten your own advice?”

Derek let out a soft, melodious chuckle, warm and rich like the notes of a cello. “So, Vivienne, it seems you enjoy being wooed by me.”