Chapter 891

"I'll be the one to dry your hair from now on."

"When did I ever agree to that?"

"Just now."

"That doesn't count! I didn't even hear what you said!"

Ethan Roscente's lips curved into a smirk. "Words spoken can't be taken back."

Vivian Laurent turned to pinch his cheek in frustration. "Ethan Roscente, are you being shameless again?"

"Wouldn't dare." He let her pinch him, his hand resting firmly at her waist. "If you don't like the idea, forget I mentioned it."

"You've never been honest a day in your life."

"Oh?" Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Tell me, where exactly am I dishonest?"

"Every inch of you."

Suddenly, Ethan cupped her face. "Since you've said so, I can't possibly disappoint you."

His lips inched closer.

The kiss came slowly, giving her ample time to pull away.

But Vivian only stared into his eyes, unmoving.

When their lips finally met, Ethan merely brushed against hers. This teasing touch sent her heart racing far more than any passionate kiss could.

A tingling sensation spread across Vivian's lips, like ants crawling over them. Her eyes remained open, tracing the curve of his lashes.

"Vivian, close your eyes."

She obeyed instinctively, just as he deepened the kiss.

Moments later, Vivian shoved him away and burrowed under the covers, pulling them over her head completely.

"I'm going to sleep."

Ethan chuckled lowly, lying down beside her. When he reached out to pull her close, she slapped his hand away.

"Don't push your luck. Our bet only said we'd share a bed—not that you could get handsy."

That kiss had already been an exception. She wouldn't allow anything more.

"I just want to hold you while we sleep."

"No! Stay on your side of the blanket. Cross the line, and I'll kick you off!"

Vivian knew sleep would elude her tonight. How could she possibly rest with Ethan so close?

Lately, insomnia had plagued her, leaving her tossing until dawn. This bed had been hers for three years—she never imagined returning to it.

Amidst her chaotic thoughts, she expected to lie awake until morning.

Yet against all odds, she slept soundly through the night, not waking until the sun was high.

Half-asleep, she vaguely recalled nestling against a warm furnace, instinctively seeking its heat.

Winter nights usually left the sheets cold, but tonight they stayed wonderfully warm. Even the baby in her womb remained unusually still.

Only when morning sunlight touched her face did Vivian realize—

The comforting warmth she'd clung to had been Ethan's embrace.