Page 74 of Pretender

“Fever dreams,” I say, my voice raspy.

“Here are some simple foods you can try to eat. A banana and some plain toast.” He shrugs. “It’s what my mother got me when I was sick as a teenager. I got nasty food poisoning from this oyster stall in Chelsea.”

“Thank you.”

“Are you sure you’re okay? You’re quite flushed.” He touches a hand to my forehead and I tuck my head in to avoid it. The move makes him wrinkle his brow, but I can’t tell him I don’t want him to touch me right now because my clit is on fire. For him. Or at least, in my dream that was the case.

Jesus Christ, what’s happening to me?

I’m not supposed to be attracted to Aiden.

Sure, it was hot as hell when we danced at the engagement party, but that was an in-the-moment thing. And now, it’s just because he’s being so sweet. Because I need the warmth and care I never got when I was sick as a child.

Yes, that’s all it is.

Right?

I look at him. Really look at him.

The tousled hair that is entirely on purpose. A hint of grey on the sides. His steel-blue eyes that can see straight into my soul. Those full lips. And that dented chin, now with more stubble than usual. It really suits him. I could do this forever.

Wait, what?

Oh, fuck.

My heart practically ricochets inside my ribcage from the force of the realisation. My lungs constrict and my vagina clench so hard, I think I’m imploding.

I’m fucking fucked.

He reaches out and brushes a hair away from my forehead, and I close my eyes, trying to calm the storm in me.

“I’ll let you eat in peace. Small bites. Be gentle with yourself.”

“Okay.”

He gets up and is about to leave the room when it hits me that I don’t want him to. He’s taking his warmth with him.

“Aiden.”

He turns, waiting for more.

“Can we watch a movie or something? I need to distract myself.”

“Sure.”

“I’ll just get into the pyjamas you got me and I’ll come out there.” I nod towards the living room he’s been hanging out in alone while I’ve been sleeping. And having a very sensual dream about him. Will I ever get over that?

I have to.

This is dangerous territory. Confusing and dangerous.

I open the golden bag Aiden placed here for me, and inside are clothes wrapped individually in white branded tissue. Gold swirly letters saying … Casa Aurato.

There’s a box at the bottom of the bag. Taking care, I open it, and inside are multiple sets of underwear. Gorgeous lace. Super soft to the touch. Did the signora from yesterday pick all this out?

There’s a new summer dress in here, and a pair of pyjamas as promised. It’s the softest fabric I’ve ever felt.

An unexpected sensation creeps into my chest, nestling around my heart. This is so thoughtful. Aiden has been caring for me in a way I’ve never experienced and I can’t seem to catch a full breath.