Chapter 46

I knew what was going to happen—the invitation to his hotel room, and for the first time since Torin's death, I didn't push the thought away. Instead, I took a deep breath and let myself be swept up in the moment.

~~

The hotel Lucien brought me to was sleek and modern, and as I stepped inside, he closed the door behind us, his hand resting on the small of my back.

"It's not much," he teased with a grin, his eyes sweeping over the plush furnishings, "but it's all mine for the night."

"It's perfect," I murmured, feeling the heat rising in my cheeks. His hand slid around my waist, pulling me closer. "Are you sure?" he whispered, his breath warm against my ear. "We can always leave if you're uncomfortable."

"No," I protested, a hint of desire in my voice, "this is exactly where I want to be."

His grip tightened, and we stepped closer. His eyes searched mine for any signs of doubt, but all he found was a yearning that matched his own. He led me to the bed, and I sat down, my heart thumpin