CHAPTER 7: TENSION ARTEMIS POV

“Why are you holding back?” I asked, my tone unwavering even though my heart quaked under my flesh. 

Aiden’s eyes met mine, piercing and cold, yet there was an underlying emotion concealed within—something he struggled to control. 

"I'm not holding back,"

“I simply… don’t want to.” 

"You don’t want to what?" I pushed forward, moving closer, my heartbeat accelerating as the tension grew stronger between us. 

"This," he replied, shaking his head, his face lacking any feelings. "This—whatever you think is happening. It's a contract, Artemis. Keep that in mind." 

A slight, cheerful grin pulled at my mouth. “Shhh,” I whispered, gently tracing my fingers along his jaw, playfully provoking him. “I know you want it as much as I do. You're just a scared little puppy." 

His eyes grew dim, his jaw clenched tight. “Be careful with your words, baby girl,” he cautioned, his voice deep and menacing. "You will plead—pleading with me to stop." 

I moved in nearer, allowing my body to graze against his. “Don’t get too proud, sweetheart,” I replied with a smirk. "I've experienced better." 

"That's unfortunate," he responded coolly. "You don't fit my preferences." 

Before I could detach, his hand grabbed my waist, pressing me solidly against the edge of his desk. The pointed edge pressed into my back, The air thickening.

His fingers located my neck, not harsh, but controlling. A playful tension—enticing, yet agonizing

“Watch what you wish for, red,” he murmured into my ears, his tone a soft, alluring vibration, sending chills through my body. I sensed the heat between my thighs, an intensifying, overwhelming desire that I couldn't hold back. 

He leaned in nearer, his lips almost touching mine. The heat of his breath sparked something deep within me. The pressure between us felt unbearable, He was aware of it as well. He knew exactly what he was doing, he knew how much I desired him. 

Just as our lips were about to meet, a knock echoed in the room, sharp and piercing, interrupting the moment like a blade. 

“Damn it,” Aiden grumbled, letting me go. His breathing was uneven, and his eyes sparkled with irritation as he stood up straight. 

"Enter," he stated nonchalantly, though I noticed the tightness in his jaw. 

The door swung open, and Daymon entered, his face difficult to interpret. “Sir,” he remarked, his voice even, as if he had not just disrupted a storm. “We have to talk. There’s a problem with Kane." 

“Who is Kane?” I inquired with curiosity. 

"There's no reason for you to be concerned," Aiden stated icily. 

Aiden's expression became harsh. His gaze shifted, the kindness and openness I’d noticed moments earlier vanishing into icy metal. 

"What type of problem?" Aiden inquired, his tone sharp. 

“He wishes to talk with you," Daymon said swiftly 

Aiden’s look changed. “Take care of it,” he ordered, his voice a deep rumble. 

Daymon gave a nod and moved back toward the door. “Understood, sir.” 

Aiden’s eyes were back on me, sharp and distant again. “Go to sleep,” he stated bluntly. "We'll have a conversation in the morning." 

The door clicked closed after Daymon, leaving us alone once more. Yet the moment had broken, leaving only the lingering tension between us. 

I lingered for a moment, my heart pounding, and my body vibrating with longing. "You might have at least offered an apology," I said gently, folding my arms across my chest. 

Aiden took some time before responding. His jaw clenched as he turned away, withdrawing into his distant, emotionless self. 

I hated how much I wanted him, hated the way he could ignite me with a glance and freeze me out just as quickly.

"Go to bed," he repeated, more gently this time, yet his tone remained authoritative. “I’ll see you in the morning,” he said without turning to face me.

I kept silent and stepped out,  headed to our bedroom with thoughts swirling in my mind. 

I wonder if he has feelings for me or if this is just a business arrangement for him.

The night continued to unfold. Regardless of his commands, sleep didn't come easily. I was preoccupied with thoughts of him—his caress, his gaze, the way he restrained himself despite how obvious his desire to surrender was. 

As morning arrived, I  woke up, the soft sunlight streaming through the curtains. For a brief moment, I simply remained there, observing him. Aiden rested deeply next to me, his face calm for a change. Exposed. 

I examined him—his sharp features, the slight furrow on his brow, the slight hint of beard on his chin. It was the nearest I had witnessed him lowering his defenses. 

As soon as I moved, the instant I adjusted under the blankets, his eyes snapped open. 

“Good morning, Red,” He remarked, extending his arms wide, taking in the surroundings as he did so, the air fresh and vibrant. 

“Good morning, Aiden,” I responded gently. 

He stood up, making his way towards the restroom. 

"Where are you going? You appear to be quite rushed." 

"I have an important event tonight; I must handle a few matters that don’t concern you," he remarked, attempting to irritate me. 

“And I’m not invited? Am I not your girl anymore?" I stated while attempting to make fun of him. 

"Be ready before 8pm," he stated coolly before marching away.