Chapter 448

Ethan Roscente's self-control was crumbling.

He cupped Vivian Laurent's nape, deepening the kiss. Her lips were impossibly soft, carrying a faint rose scent that intoxicated him.

The sheets wrinkled beneath their weight.

His fingertips burned. Never had he imagined his famed discipline would shatter so completely before her.

Vivian's lashes fluttered.

Heat radiated through her entire body. Ethan's kiss sent electric currents from her lips to every nerve ending.

"Mmm..."

An involuntary whimper escaped her.

Ethan's Adam's apple bobbed. He abruptly pushed himself up, creating distance.

"Don't—"

Vivian pursued him.

Her fingers clutched his wrinkled dress shirt, fabric bunching in her palm.

Ethan's breathing turned ragged.

He stared at her flushed cheeks, dark tides churning in his gaze.

"Do you realize what you're doing?"

She shook her head.

Only this man could soothe the fire consuming her.

Two buttons popped open on Ethan's shirt.

Vivian's fingertips brushed his scorching skin.

"Damn it."

His curse was low and rough.

He seized her wandering hand, only to find her temperature alarmingly high.

"Vivian?"

Her eyes glazed over.

She began tearing at her own collar, revealing delicate collarbones.

A vein throbbed at Ethan's temple.

"Stop."

His warning went unheeded.

The first button slipped free.

Ethan jerked his face away.

His clenched fists showed bulging veins.

The rustle of fabric filled the silent room.

When he looked back—

Vivian had shed every constraint.

Moonlight through the curtains gilded her silhouette in silver.

Ethan's pupils contracted violently.

His last shred of rationality shattered.