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Not while I’m around.
* * *
Andre calls in the end. To tell me he’s organized a party for Wild Heart.
It’s at the eleventh hour, but I agree easily. I need the distraction. The knowledge that Bane and Aria were within seeing distance has tripped my pulse and it won’t settle. Plus, the possibility of continuing the sweet, warm atmosphere that’s settled between us is strong. It’s a balm to my soul, even as everything is trying to suffocate it.
It’s how I find myself standing at the bottom of the staircase, waiting for Aria. She insisted she prepare in the guest rooms, the delight on her face when I told her I had staff who could collect anything she needs from her apartment making my heart swell. I almost pointed out this is the life I could give her. One where she’d never need for anything.
But I held back.
The last thing Aria needs is more pressure.
Aria appears at the top of the staircase, a vision of unparalleled beauty. She descends the steps in a mesmerizing, dark blue dress that shimmers like the night sky itself. The gown clings to her figure, accentuating her grace and elegance. Intricate beading catches the ambient light, casting a dazzling spell that leaves me breathless.
“I bought it on sale months ago,” she says, flushing. “One of those impulse buys I couldn’t afford, but couldn’t walk away from.”
“I’m glad you didn’t,” I murmur, my voice gravelly.
Each step brings her closer and the world around us seems to blur and fade, leaving only her in my vision. Her eyes find mine, and a mischievous smile tugs at the corners of her lips. I can’t help but feel a jolt of electricity surge through my veins.
As Aria reaches the bottom of the staircase, her gaze never wavers from mine. It’s as if time slows down, allowing me to appreciate every detail. Her hair in a soft bun, leaving her throat exposed. The way her breasts rise and fall gently. The dark pantyhose clinging to her legs.
My heart races, and I try to steady myself, unsure if I’ll be able to keep my composure. The anticipation builds with each step she takes, drawing her closer to me.
Finally, she stands before me, her eyes filled with a mix of desire and vulnerability. The air crackles with awareness. Without thinking, my hand reaches out to gently caress her cheek. Her breath hitches as we both sway closer, drawn into our new center of gravity.
I lean in, my lips hovering just inches away from hers. “You’re…everything, Aria,” I breathe.
“Chase,” she gasps, her eyes shimmering.
Time stands still as I close the gap between us, my lips meeting hers in a searing, passionate union. Our mouths meld, our tongues delve. Passion soars, but so does my heart. Possessiveness flares, hot and hard. Along with something softer. More precious.
Aria pulls back, smiling up at me. “You really know how to make a girl forget everything, don’t you?” she whispers.
I grin, thinking that’s the best compliment I’ve ever received. “What’s my name again?”
She giggles and I step away, taking her hand and leading her toward the door. If I stand here for another second, with this delectable woman in my arms, I’m going to fuck her. All night long.
I guide Aria toward the car, then climb into the driver's seat. The engine purrs to life, and we make our way from the house toward the address Andre gave me. The city lights twinkle in the distance, waiting.
Aria turns to look at me. "Chase, this party is a lovely surprise, but it feels out of place considering everything that's happening with Peter..."
I steal a glance at her. "I know," I say, my tone gentle. "But it's a chance for us to take a break, even if it's just for a little while. You deserve a night like this, a reprieve from all the stress and worry."
"I appreciate it, Chase,” she says softly. “It means a lot."
Reaching for her hand, I interlace our fingers. "I want this night to be special for you, Aria. I want to spoil you and make you forget, even if just for a little while, the chaos that's surrounding us."
Her smile is my reward. "Thank you."
I continue to drive through the city, the night sky stretched out above us, filled with stars that seem to twinkle in approval. As I focus on the road, I'm reminded of how important it is to find moments of happiness and relaxation even in the midst of uncertainty and turmoil.
Aria's presence by my side is a reminder that there can still be light and joy even in the darkest of times.
A light that will never be extinguished.
Chapter11
