Chapter 435

"And... hard," I teased, watching Hayden's jaw tighten.

He didn't say a word, but I could feel the tension. His grip loosened on me, but his mood was obvious.

"Seriously, Hayden?" I tugged on his arm, pouting like a pro. "You're not actually mad, right?"

"No," he muttered, but his face said, 'absolutely yes.'

"Come on, you're not the type to get all worked up over something like this, are you?" I tilted my head, trying to figure him out.

"I know exactly what you mean," he said, lifting me like I was nothing and plopping me right onto the hotel room's rocking chair.

I laughed, wrapping my legs around his waist. "Oh, so you think you've got me all figured out, huh?" I tugged him closer.

He swallowed hard, trying so badly to keep his cool, but the way his body stiffened under my touch? Oh yeah, I had him right where I wanted.

He looked so serious, almost adorable in this new, flustered way. I couldn't help but push more.

"What's wrong? Cat got your tongue?" I smirked, my legs sti