Chapter 69: Don't Make Me Wait Too Long

Derek's warm breath grazed Vivienne's skin; his lips brushed her cheek before his head nestled into the curve of her neck. His movements were restrained yet intense, each gesture imbued with fervent desire. His arms tightened around her, drawing her close as if she might slip away.

"Derek, you're hurting me," Vivienne protested, shifting uncomfortably.

A low chuckle rumbled in his chest, his breath caressing her ear, sending a shiver down her spine. "Vivienne, don't make me wait too long," he murmured, his voice smooth and rich, laced with a captivating smile.

Her breath caught; her composure crumbled under his magnetism. The sudden stop of the car broke the spell. Flustered, she pushed him away with trembling hands and stumbled out, seeking refuge from his overwhelming presence.

Derek's gaze followed her retreat, a wry, charming smile playing on his lips—dangerously mischievous. He rubbed his fingers, savoring the memory of her touch, a connection he was loath to relinquish. Though he prided himself on patience and control, those virtues dissolved effortlessly in her presence.

Something about her—an irresistible pull—ignited a possessiveness he hadn't anticipated. For Derek, affection had always been an indulgence, women mere fleeting companions. But Vivienne shattered those beliefs, unseating his logic and forcing him to grapple with unexpected feelings.

Her essence lingered in his mind; he was consumed by a curiosity to uncover every nuance of her being. She was an unforeseen disruption, a presence that defied his carefully constructed rules. What began as intrigue had deepened into something profound, something beyond his control. Perhaps she was his destined encounter.

He unlocked his phone, navigated to Vivienne's WhatsApp chat, and typed, "Goodnight."

In her room, Vivienne's racing pulse had just begun to calm when Derek's message arrived. She switched her phone to vibrate, placing it face down, deliberately avoiding it as she went to the bathroom.

The warm water enveloped her, washing away the day's exhaustion. Her hair floated around her shoulders like seaweed. Leaning against the tub, she idly swirled the crimson liquid in her wine glass. Derek's words resonated softly yet deeply: "Vivienne, don't make me wait too long."

He claimed to understand her fears, perceiving the delicate layers of her guarded heart. Though their meetings were brief, she couldn't deny the profound effect of his unwavering tenderness. But could she truly allow him into her life? They had known each other for only a few days, and she knew so little about him. Could he be worth the risk?

She finished her wine, letting its warmth spread through her as she rested her head against the cool tub and closed her eyes.

Emerging from the bathroom, her phone's faint vibration caught her attention. She approached hesitantly, just in time to see Derek's name flashing as another call came through. Vivienne hesitated, then answered.

"Vivienne?" Derek's voice was deep and warm, making her heart race.

She inhaled deeply, steadying herself. "Is there something you needed?"

"You didn't reply to my message," he said, his tone calm yet playful. "I'm just glad to hear your voice."

The weight of his words wasn't lost on her. She tilted her head, her lips curving faintly. "Afraid I'd block you?"

"Would you?" His voice was low and warm. "You wouldn't have the heart to."

Wouldn't she? Vivienne's thoughts tangled, but she knew the answer. She wouldn't. Otherwise, why had she allowed him to carve out a place in her world, to feel the pull of his gentle persistence, or the irritation when he called? His quiet affection had taken root in the barren corners of her heart, a tiny spark yearning to bloom.

"It's late. You should get some rest. Goodnight."

She ended the call, her fingers trembling as she set down the phone. This night, like her heart, was destined to remain restless.