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 yet tender, charged with passion. His unspoken emotions poured out, drawing her in with a warmth that made her forget to resist. Her lashes fluttered, and she slowly closed her eyes, surrendering. Her fingers curled into the sheets, gripping them tightly.

The kiss deepened, intoxicating and all-consuming, until only they existed. The air grew heavy with heat, wrapping the room in intimacy. Only when the kiss became 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 wildly, a frantic rhythm caught between fear and exhilaration. She pushed against his chest, stammering, "Derek, that's… enough…"

Her faint voice lacked conviction, only encouraging him. His passion surged, relentless and overwhelming. Desperate, Vivienne bit his lip.

The sharp pain snapped him out of his fervor. Seizing the moment, she shoved him away, stumbling back. His dark eyes glimmered like molten embers, a hypnotic vortex.

Vivienne tore her gaze away, her pulse racing. "So, this is what you look like acting like a spoiled child," Derek said, his low, teasing voice sending a shiver down her spine. Vivienne's cheeks burned. She slipped on her shoes, shoving him back. "I need some fresh air."

Derek clasped her wrist, his gaze steady and piercing. His unguarded eyes held a depth of longing. His voice was deliberate, his Adam's apple moving 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. She had spent so much time with Warren, a man who dismissed emotional vulnerability. He disliked sentimental women, forcing her to build walls of resilience. 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 peeling back her defenses, gently touching her heart.

With a small exhale, she met Derek's unwavering gaze. A faint curve softened his lips, his eyes glowing with warmth.

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

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

His fingers brushed her earlobe, a tender touch that sent a flutter of warmth through her. She stiffened, unable to withstand the emotion, and batted his hand away. "I told you, I need some fresh air," she repeated, her voice firmer.

Without waiting for a reply, she left him standing alone.