Chapter 83: My Feelings For You Won't Change

Vivienne, struck by regret over her earlier sentimentality, opened her mouth to explain. Before she could speak, Derek leaned in, kissing her.

Her eyes widened in disbelief, a flicker of panic in her trembling gaze as her breath hitched. The kiss was firm but tender, charged with passion. His unspoken emotions seemed to engulf her, a warmth that made her forget to resist. Her lashes fluttered, and she slowly closed her eyes, surrendering. Her fingers curled into the sheets, anchoring her against the whirlwind of emotions.

The kiss deepened, intoxicating and all-consuming, silencing the world. The air grew heavy with heat, enveloping them in intimacy. Only when the kiss grew fervent, stealing her breath, did Vivienne regain her senses.

Her eyes flew open, meeting Derek's with a jolt. His dark gaze burned with intensity, igniting something unfamiliar within her. Her heart raced, a frantic rhythm between fear and exhilaration. She pushed against his chest, her breaths uneven as she stammered, "Derek, that's… enough…"

Her voice lacked conviction, only strengthening his resolve. His passion surged, relentless and overwhelming. Desperate, Vivienne bit his lip.

The sharp pain broke his fervor, the metallic tang of blood cutting through the haze. Seizing the moment, she shoved him away, stumbling back. His dark eyes glimmered, a hypnotic vortex threatening to consume her.

Vivienne tore her gaze away, her pulse racing, her chest heaving.

"So, this is what you look like acting like a spoiled child," Derek's low, sultry voice teased, sending a shiver down her spine. Vivienne's cheeks burned. She grabbed her shoes, shoving him back. "I need some fresh air."

Derek's hand clasped her wrist, his gaze steady and piercing. His unguarded eyes held undeniable longing. His voice was deliberate, his Adam's apple bobbing slightly as he said, "Vivienne, you don't need to act strong around me. My feelings for you won't change."

A tremor rippled through Vivienne's chest. She had spent so much time with Warren, a man who dismissed emotional vulnerability, disliking overly sentimental women. This had forced her to build walls of resilience, enduring hardships in silence. That facade had become second nature.

But Vivienne wasn't made of stone. She longed for care, solace, and moments of vulnerability. Derek had a way of gently peeling back her defenses, touching the hidden corners of her heart.

With a small exhale, she met Derek's unwavering gaze. A faint curve softened his lips, his deep eyes glowing warmly, as if he understood her.

"Derek, do you show this kind of devotion to every woman?" she asked, her voice light but challenging.

His reply was steady. "You are the first woman I've ever loved," he said, his tone unyielding. "And you'll be the only one."

The gentle brush of his fingers against her earlobe sent a flutter of warmth through her. She stiffened, unable to bear the emotion, and batted his hand away. "I told you, I need some fresh air," she repeated, her voice firmer.

Without waiting for a response, she turned and left him standing alone.