Chapter 258

Harrison's slender frame pressed against the chilled marble tiles of the shower wall. Scalding water cascaded over her, drenching her instantly. She lifted trembling hands to Nathaniel's broad chest.

"Stop this."

The water streamed down Nathaniel's chiseled jawline, tracing the contours of his sculpted physique. Droplets clung to his defined collarbones before disappearing down his toned abdomen.

It was like watching a Renaissance masterpiece come to life - raw masculine perfection.

Harrison's pulse quickened, heat pooling in her core. She felt like cornered prey, eyes darting anywhere but at him, overwhelmed by his proximity.

Nathaniel caged her against the wall, that infuriating smirk playing on his lips. "Still playing innocent? You've seen everything already."

She hadn't anticipated this boldness. That first night, he'd been under medication's haze. Now his piercing gaze held terrifying clarity.

Never had they been this close while sober. Never like this.

"Nathaniel, release me!" Harrison twisted in his grasp.

His grip only tightened. Reaching up, he threaded something through her damp strands.

The mirror reflected his actions - a golden hairpin nestled in her ebony locks. Then came a rose-colored one. An emerald followed.

Harrison froze. These were the pins she'd admired while shopping with Rosalind and Gabrielle. Luna's interruption had prevented her purchase.

He'd gone back. Bought them all.

Nathaniel's gaze softened as he studied her. Water darkened her hair to midnight, accentuating her delicate features. The candy-colored accessories brought unexpected playfulness to her usual cool elegance.

"Exquisite."

His lips brushed the pins before claiming her mouth. Strong arms encircled her, pulling her flush against him. Another kiss pressed to her crown.

"Absolutely breathtaking."

Harrison's knees buckled. Only his embrace kept her upright.

Nathaniel always rewarded those who pleased him. Extravagantly.

She pushed weakly against his chest. "Nathaniel, no!"

He tightened his hold, voice roughened. "Still planning to find me a doctor, little wife?"

Harrison stilled. So he hadn't forgotten her thoughtless comment.

Nathaniel tilted her chin up, forcing eye contact. "Was I inadequate? That night, you didn't seem disappointed." His thumb traced her lower lip. "I remember every sound you made. Every gasp. Every whimper."

The memory burned.

Scarlet flooded Harrison's cheeks, staining her neck. She slapped a hand over his mouth. "Enough!"

Nathaniel pinned her wrist above her head. His body aligned perfectly with hers as he leaned in. "Tell me you didn't enjoy it."

She squirmed, refusing to answer.

Desire darkened his gaze. He captured her lips again. "I did. Immensely."

The admission shocked her.

Harrison's wide eyes reflected conflicting emotions - surprise warring with reluctant anticipation.

Nathaniel claimed her mouth once more, leaving no room for doubt about his intentions.