Tatiana What's happening? Why can't I resist him? Hunter had his arms wrapped around my waist as he kissed me. His lips were so soft, like velvet, as they moved with mine. Sparks of electricity ran through my body, and I felt drawn to him, unable to pull away. Hunter's scent filled the air around us, a mixture of minty cologne and something else intoxicatingly masculine that made me faint with desire. The memories of our several steamy nights came flooding back. This was not good. This was a disaster. My heart raced as his hands explored my body, gliding over every curve in a way that sent shivers down my spine and butterflies fluttering in the pit of my stomach. He pulled back just enough for our eyes to meet. There was an intensity there that scared yet excited me at the same time- it felt like he could see into my very soul without saying anything at all. "That's right, you should be sorry about this. How dare you kiss me?" I breathed. "You aren't pushing me away," he said.
One week later...McKennaThe more time passed, the more I found myself coming back to the Hunter's research Lab. Dustin and I would spend hours here, talking about nothing and everything.There was something about the dimly lit room, filled with shelves upon shelves of carefully labeled specimens, that felt like a sanctuary.Dustin, with his unkempt hair and bright eyes, would eagerly share his latest discoveries with me, his passion for his work evident in every word he spoke.But it wasn't just the science that kept me coming back. I didn't want to admit it at first, but I couldn't keep running away from my feelings either.Because let's just face it...I was crushing on Dustin harder than a squirrel hoarding acorns for the apocalypse – and my heart was the ultimate nut vault."I think this is your calling, McKenna. Maybe after you get your degree, you can work for Hunter here. I am sure he would be thrilled to have you take care of the family business," Dustin said.I nodded. I cou
DustinMy heart beat fast as I drove McKenna back to the townhouse.I didn't know why I was feeling so nervous. It wasn't like I was taking a girl home with me after a date. McKenna was Hunter's daughter, and she had every right to spend the night there. This was nothing special!I tried to reassure myself, reminding me that this was nothing out of the ordinary. Yet, as I stole glances at McKenna while driving, I couldn't dhskr the nervous energy.Get it together, Dustin! I scolded myself.Pulling up to the townhouse, I parked the car, and McKenna and I stepped out into the quiet night. I gestured toward the door. "Here we are. Make yourself comfortable. If you need anything, just let me know."McKenna thanked me, and we entered the townhouse."Thank you. I can find my way to my room," McKenna said and smiled."You're welcome," I replied, returning her smile.As McKenna made her way to her room, I lingered in the living area for a moment.I tried to dismiss any lingering nervousness,
McKenna I groaned as the sunlight hit me directly in my eyes. Dustin must've forgotten to close the curtains! I turned to my side and faced Dustin. He was still sleeping, his features relaxed in the early morning light. As I watched him sleep, a smile tugged at the corners of my lips. The events of last night replayed in my mind, and I couldn't help but feel a warm flutter of excitement. We didn't let things go too far last night. This whole thing was still new to me, so he understood my hesitation. Careful not to disturb him, I reached over and gently nudged Dustin. "Hey, sleepyhead, wake up." He stirred, blinking his eyes open. "Mmm, what time is it?" "Early. And you forgot to close the curtains," I teased. Dustin squinted against the sunlight, then turned to me with a lazy smile. "Oops, my bad. I guess I was too occupied with certain... distractions last night." I blushed at the memory. "Thank you for agreeing to take things slow." Dustin chuckled, running a hand through h
Tatiana Oh goodness me, I really messed up this time. This whole thing was Hunter's fault. Why did he have to invite me to dinner that night and seduce me? After that night we spent, I couldn't stop. Hunter used every excuse in the book to lure me into his house, and we ended up making the same mistake. Over and over again. I felt like a fool. But he was so charming, so persuasive, and I couldn't resist him, even though I knew it was wrong. I had willingly played into his games, ignoring the hatred I harbored against him all these years. "You can't stop me from seeing Dustin, Mom. Not after I caught you like this," McKenna announced. I turned my attention back to her. "McKenna.." I glared at her. "I am serious. Dustin is my boyfriend and that's final," she said defiantly. "McKenna, you can't just decide that! I am not giving you my blessing," I said, frustration and anger boiling within me. McKenna looked at me with a determined expression. "It's not about getting your bles
Hunter At first, I wanted to play the peacemaker and resolve this argument, but then, the thought of Dustin sneaking around with my daughter angered me. After Tatiana and McKenna stormed out, I turned my attention to Dustin, who was just standing there looking uncomfortable. "What do you have to say about this, young man? I expect an apology from you," I growled. Dustin seemed to snap out of his trance. "Apology? I am not sorry for liking McKenna, Hunter. I think we are good together and she feels the same way about me." I folded my arms, scowling at Dustin. "It's not about whether you like each other or not. It's about the way you both handled this situation. Sneaking around, keeping secrets. That's not how I want my daughter to be treated." Dustin sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Look, I get it. I didn't handle things perfectly, but it's not as simple as it seems. McKenna wanted to avoid unnecessary drama." "That's not an excuse," I retorted. "I told you to stay away
Dustin "What were you two talking about? Is Hunter angry?" I asked McKenna once Hunter left for the day. McKenna looked at me and grinned. "You seem anxious." "Of course I am anxious! I thought Hunter would kill me or kick me out of the house yesterday, but he was surprisingly calm and collected. He did warn me not to hurt you for the tenth time, though," I said. "Yeah, well, I am angrier than all of them combined," McKenna said grimly. "You still haven't told me what he told you. Come on, give me the details. The anticipation is killing me," I said impatiently. McKenna laughed at my eagerness. "Calm down, Dustin. It wasn't as dramatic as you're making it out to be. We just had a talk, and he offered me a permanent internship here in the lab." "Wait, what?" I blinked in surprise. "An internship? Like, working together every day?" She nodded, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Yep, right beside you. Permanently." I couldn't believe it. "That's... amazing! I mean, yeah, that's g
Tatiana Just as I was getting into my groove with my new design, my phone started pinging. With a heavy sigh, I saw the name 'Jackass' flashing on the screen. Ugh, what did that idiot want now? I let out a loud "What?" in response. Hunter's deep chuckle tickled my ear. "Well, hello there, Babydoll." "Don't you dare call me that!" I exclaimed, feeling my cheeks flush in annoyance. "You used to love it when I called you that." Hunter sounded hurt, but I knew he was faking. I rolled my eyes, knowing Hunter's charming facade all too well. "Yeah, back when I was naive and didn't realize what a manipulative jerk you were." My fingers tightened around the fabric, my irritation threatening to unravel everything. Hunter let out a low chuckle, his voice dripping with a mix of arrogance and amusement. "Feeling a bit feisty this morning?" I scoffed, shaking my head even though he couldn't see it. "Feisty is a polite way of putting it. I prefer 'completely fed up.'" Hunter's laughter echo
TatianaThe doubts lingered over the months. Despite Hunter's continuous affirmations of love and commitment, I couldn't shake the fear that it was all too good to be true. The fear of vulnerability and potential heartbreak haunted me.As the days turned into weeks and weeks into months, my worries became a silent companion. Yet, Hunter didn't look worried at all. He doted on me, showering me with his love.Maybe I was being stupid. I shouldn't be so skeptical. Hunter loved me, and I loved him, so there was no problem!One year later, he invited me to his birthday party. It was at his parents' house. Oh, great. I was not looking forward to seeing his Mom again. But I had to be there for Hunter no matter what.But still...every time we saw each other, she made it clear that she didn't approve of my relationship with Hunter.On the night of the party, I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my outfit nervously. The dress, a creation he had once admired, was now complete. I took a deep
TatianaAs Hunter's fingers intertwined with mine, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. I had never done this before, but with Hunter by my side, I felt completely at ease.He brushed my cheeks with his fingertips."I've wanted this for so long," he said softly. "But I didn't want to rush you or make you uncomfortable."I smiled at his words, feeling touched that he had been considerate of my feelings. "I trust you," I told him sincerely."I'm glad," Hunter replied, before leaning in to press his lips against mine.The kiss was gentle yet passionate, igniting a fire in me that I hadn't known existed. His lips moved expertly against mine, and I found myself responding eagerly.As our kisses deepened, Hunter's hands began to explore my body, sending shivers down my spine. We broke the kiss momentarily as he peppered light kisses along my jawline and down my neck."You're so beautiful," he whispered between kisses, making me blush yet again. His hands continue
TatianaIn the dimly lit dorm room, I stood nervously in front of my closet. I stared at the half-finished dress hanging on the door. The fabric was a rich red color, flowing and elegant, with intricate gold embroidery along the hem and sleeves.I haven't shown it to anyone yet, but I thought it was my best work. For some reason, I felt like showing it to Hunter. We have been dating for over a month now, and I figured it was time I shared my work with him. I wanted Hunter's opinion before I called it done.Hunter was waiting for me in the living room area. I hadn't told him why I had called him here yet, so I took a deep breath and went to meet him."Well? What's the big emergency?" Hunter asked.I looked at him, biting my lip as he stared at me. He was dressed casually in jeans and a plain white t-shirt, looking handsome as always."I wanted to show you something," I said."Oh, really? What would that be?" he asked."Close your eyes," I said softly.Hunter raised an eyebrow but obeye
TatianaAs we followed Evelyn to the dining room, I couldn't help but feel the weight of her disapproval lingering in the air.We took our seats, and Evelyn turned her attention to me once again, her gaze filled with scrutiny."So, Tatiana," she began, her voice dripping with condescension. "Hunter's father will join us briefly, but tell me more about yourself.""Um...I am an only child. My parents are from here in New York," I said.Evelyn raised an eyebrow, as if expecting more."That's...interesting," she responded, her tone not quite matching the word. "What do your parents do?""Both of my parents are teachers," I answered, hoping to add a bit more substance to my background.Evelyn's lips formed a tight line, and she leaned back in her chair. "Teachers, huh? They are quite underpaid, aren't they?" Evelyn said."Yes, but they love what they do," I said defensively.Hunter shot me a supportive look, but Evelyn continued, undeterred. "And what about your own ambitions, Tatiana? Wha
Tatiana"Why did you have to be so rude to Hunter?" I scolded Frederick when we met up at the coffee shop later."I don't like that guy, Tatiana. I don't think he is good for you," Frederick said."And how would you know that, Fred?" I asked, feeling annoyed. Frederick and I grew up together, and sometimes he acted like he knew everything about me and knew all my needs, but it was starting to get old. It felt like he was overstepping boundaries, thinking he had the authority to dictate who was good for me and who wasn't."He's just not the right fit for you, Tati. I can see it," Frederick replied, a hint of concern in his eyes.I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Fred, you're not my guardian. I appreciate your concern, but I can make my own decisions. Hunter is my choice, and I'd appreciate it if you respected that."Frederick leaned back, crossing his arms. "I just don't want to see you get hurt.""I can take care of myself, Fred," I retorted. "You don't get to decide who's ri
HunterThe corners of my mouth twitched as I couldn't help but let out a small laugh at the look on Tatiana's face. "I am sorry, Tati. I didn't mean to scare you," I said slyly, trying to hide my amusement.Tatiana's expression only grew more worried. "Well, you are scaring me, Hunter. We've only been dating for three weeks!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with panic.Feeling guilty now, I took her hand in mine. "I am sorry," I said sincerely, suddenly concerned that I had overstepped.She looked at me with wide doe eyes. "Why are you apologizing?""I just...I'm afraid I may be moving too fast." My words came out in a rush as I tried to explain myself. "I swear I'm not some kind of psycho. I just..."Interrupting me, Tatiana spoke up firmly. "Hunter, you don't have to explain anything to me. I'm not actually scared.""But you are," I insisted, knowing that my actions had caused her fear and uncertainty. "I know you may not even love me yet and here I am talking about marriage. God...
TatianaI yelped and pushed him off, then quickly lowered the heat on the stove. Hunter burst into laughter, and I joined him, the tension disappearing."Phew...you saved the soup. You are on a roll at saving lives today," he quipped, wiping a mock sweat off his forehead.I rolled my eyes. "You have a talent for turning any situation into a joke.""It's a gift," he replied with a wink."Go sit down on the couch and I will bring you a bowl," I ordered."Yes, Madam!" Hunter saluted and rushed back to the couch.I shook my head and searched for a bowl in the cabinets. Then with the bowl in hand, I returned to the living room, finding Hunter already seated on the couch, looking both amused and hungry."Here you go," I said, handing him the bowl."Ah, the heroine returns with the healing potion," he teased, taking the bowl with a grin.I rolled my eyes. "Just eat your soup before it gets cold."He nodded obediently, blowing on a spoonful of soup before taking a careful sip. "Mmm, deliciou
TatianaI don't know why I was kissing him after I resisted him so much, but I didn't feel any regret doing it. As I pulled away from the kiss, I couldn't help but smile at the irony of the situation. Here we were, in a hospital room, surrounded by medical equipment, and we were sharing a tender moment that made the whole environment seem like a dream.But the reality of the situation was far from ideal. Hunter wasn't a hundred percent better, and his recovery was far from guaranteed. He was weak, and I could see the pain in his eyes, even when he wasn't in physical discomfort."I am already regretting kissing you," I whispered, my voice low and barely audible.Hunter smiled with his eyes. "You are lying," he managed to utter. And despite the gravity of the situation, I couldn't help but feel a warmth in my chest as I looked at him.We sat in silence for a while, holding hands."Should I call your mom?" I suddenly realized his family may not know about this yet."Nah," Hunter said d
Hunter"Congratulations on getting engaged to the perfect woman, Hunter," Tatiana said, her voice full of bitterness."I am not getting engaged to Natasha," I said irritably. "My mom is always pushing random girls toward me, saying they are 'perfect' for me.""Well, she is. I don't know why you brought me down here, Hunter. I don't belong in your world," Tatiana said, looking around. "My world? What do you mean by that?" I furrowed my eyebrows."A world full of designer clothes and lavish parties. My family isn't like yours. They are simple and could barely afford to send me to the university," she said."Are you suggesting everything was handed to me? Should I feel ashamed of that?" I asked.Tatiana shook her head. "I am not saying that. I am just saying we are not a good match, so this was a mistake."I sighed, feeling frustrated and confused. Tatiana's words struck a nerve, and I realized that our worlds were vastly different."Tatiana, I didn't bring you here to show off or make