CH.30

The warm morning sunlight filtered through the thick curtains the next morning.

I stirred beneath the plush duvet, my body was sore and still heavy with sleep as Karl's lips trailed featherlight kisses along my cheek, down to the sensitive skin of my neck.

A contented sigh escaped my parted lips when his mouth found that special spot just below my ear, sending a delicious shiver down my spine.

"Good morning, beautiful," he murmured huskily against my throat, his breath fanning over my rapidly flushing skin. The low, gravelly timbre of his voice sent another wave of warmth coursing through me.

Reluctantly, I blinked my eyes open to find his intense gaze fixed on me.

"Morning," I muttered, suddenly self-conscious under the weight of his stare.

I averted my eyes shyly, feeling exposed and vulnerable despite being covered by the blankets.

Karl wouldn't have it, though. He gently cupped my chin, turning my face back toward his with a featherlight touch that belied his usual strength