Chapter 372

Rosalind reached for a fresh outfit in the changing room, her back to the door as she began slipping out of her undergarments.

A gentle knock interrupted her.

Harrison already? That was faster than expected.

"Come in," Rosalind called over her shoulder.

The door creaked open.

But it wasn't Harrison who entered - it was Everett.

Everett stepped inside just as Rosalind was adjusting her new bra, her delicate fingers struggling with the clasp behind her back.

He froze. He'd knocked, but this wasn't what he'd anticipated.

Rosalind's porcelain skin practically glowed in the dim light, her slender frame accentuated by the school uniform skirt. Dark silken waves cascaded down her back, framing her graceful shoulders. The curve of her spine was mesmerizing, her waist impossibly narrow before flaring out into perfect feminine proportions.

Everett immediately averted his gaze, heat rising to his cheeks as he turned toward the exit. Before he could retreat, Rosalind's voice stopped him.

"I can't fasten this clasp. Could you help me?" She took several steps backward until she stood directly before him. "Right here - I can't reach it."

Everett remained motionless.

Rosalind's tone grew more urgent. "Please, my arms hurt... my whole body aches... Ouch."

His eyes dropped against his will. Angry red marks marred her otherwise flawless skin - remnants of their earlier altercation. The sight stirred something unexpected in him.

With hesitant fingers, he reached for the clasp. The intricate hooks proved challenging for his inexperienced hands. He worked methodically, careful to avoid contact with her skin.

Rosalind tilted her head. "Having trouble too? Maybe it's too tight now. It fit perfectly before." She glanced down thoughtfully. "Unless I've grown? That would be nice. Men prefer fuller figures, don't they? Not that I expect to reach Arabella's proportions, but a D cup would be lovely!"

Everett nearly choked.

After what felt like an eternity, the clasp finally secured.

He turned sharply toward the door.

"Wait!" Rosalind spun around. "Harrison, why are you so quiet tod- AH!"

Her shriek echoed off the walls as she came face-to-face with Everett instead. She scrambled for her blouse, hastily covering herself.

Everett reached for the door handle again.

"Stop right there!" Rosalind commanded.

His large hand froze on the knob. Before he could react, Rosalind wedged herself between him and the door, slamming it shut with her body.

She tilted her head up defiantly, cheeks flushed. "Everett Sinclair, I said stop! Are you deaf? You're not leaving!"

They stood nearly chest-to-chest now, though Everett towered over her by a full foot. His expression remained impassive. "What do you want?"

Rosalind's flush deepened. "I should be asking you that! You just saw everything!"