Page 65

“How can you be sure?”

“It’s like looking at art. Sometimes, you just feel it.”

He considered my comment for a moment. Then he slipped his hand behind my neck, massaging it gently. He bent and pressed his lips gently to mine.

When he drew back, I said, “You’re breaking a rule in the contract.”

His lips pursed. “Some rules can be bent temporarily.”

“Says who?”

“Says the two people who are in heat right now.”

“I’m not in heat.”

“Okay.” He smirked, seeing through my lie. “Then it’s just me.” His Adam’s apple bobbed. “Please forgive me, Lily Pad.”

The sexual tension in the room increased several notches.

“I’m going to unpack and call it a night.”

Attikus nodded. “Okay. I need to get some work done. If you need anything, you can call, text, or walk upstairs.”

I nodded. “Let me help you put the food away.”

As we walked out of his bedroom, he said, “You’re welcome to leave your underwear in my drawers if you need more room.”

Was that an invitation? He knew he was unsettling me and didn’t back down one bit. Did he want me to jump him or something? Because if I had to stand next to him for another minute, I would.

Rolling my eyes, I stalked past him, rushing down the stairs.

He caught up to me. “As for the sex toys, I don’t have any. But we could start a collection if you want.”

Heat blossomed on my face and traveled down my neck. I glared at him. “Sounds like you want it more than me.”

He stood with his hands tucked into his pants, smirking as he rocked back on his heels.

“Where’s your cane? Is it safe to walk around without it?”

“Are you worried about me?”

“I’m worried aboutme. If you fall and knock yourself out, I’m not strong enough to drag you to safety.” I looked around and spotted it leaning against the kitchen wall. “Here.” I offered it to him. It was heavier than I had imagined.

“Thank you.” He took it but leaned it against the kitchen island. “The doctor told me it’s okay not to use it at home. During my physical therapy sessions, I don’t need a cane.” He walked back and forth in the kitchen like a lion owning his domain. “See?”

He walked without a limp. I wondered if his pain was sporadic, but I didn’t want to ask any more questions. I was supposed to get away from him.

As soon as I finished putting the food away, I said good night, rushed into my bedroom, and locked the door.

When I sat on my bed, I blew out a heavy breath, trying to calm my erratic heartbeat.

We weren’t even married, and he’d already broken one rule on the contract.

But you’re not mad about it.

I wasn’t, which made this entire situation dangerous. I didn’t want to get hurt, and Attikus was a man who had the potential to do just that. I could tell because my body had never reacted this way to anyone.

A hot shower would help me clear away his energy so I could unpack and get a restful sleep.