A New Bestie

Nicolai felt the sudden tension in her body and looked down at her with a frown. "What is it?"

"Nothing." She flashed him a bright smile that didn't meet her eyes. "I'm just getting cold and I'm sure it's really late. I'm on call this weekend and I need to get an early start on errands tomorrow."

As she pushed off his chest and stood, Nicolai watched, a frown marring his handsome features. He didn't like this sudden withdrawal, the way she was shutting down emotionally. It irked him when she had been so submissive and responsive to him just moments before.

But he wouldn't push. Not yet. Nicolai knew that Alessia was a woman of pride and independence. Pushing her would only make her dig her heels in further. No, he would give her this space to process. If he wanted her to embrace his world, he had to go slow. The thought surprised him. Was that what he really wanted?

As Alessia finished dressing, Nicolai rose from the blankets, his powerful body unfolding with grace and ease. He reache