Page 59 of When We Ignite

Steeling myself, I stepped forward. He slid back in his chair, giving me space.

When I stopped in front of him, he didn’t move, just watched me.

“What?” I asked, confused.

“I’m still waiting.”

I frowned. “I came.”

He smiled slowly, shaking his head before patting his lap.

My stomach flipped.

“Come here,” he repeated.

I hesitated, shaking my head instinctively, but his sigh stopped me. “This one’s on you. Why do you have to make it so difficult?”

Sebastian stood, stepping into my space. One hand slid to the back of my neck, the other tilted my chin, holding me gently. I stared at the open V of his shirt, my resolve wavering.

“I’m not trying to be difficult,” he said softly, his voice a soothing contrast to the tension between us. “I’m trying to savor it and make sure you do too. Please, just do what I’m asking. I promise you’ll like it.”

I closed my eyes for a second.

“Stop fighting me, Ethan,” he added.

He sat back down, his eyes holding mine, steady and unwavering. “Trust me,” he whispered.

I couldn’t keep this up. What was the worst that could happen? I’d hate it and tell him to stop. That wouldn’t kill me. What would kill me was wondering “what if” for the rest of my life.

Staring at my hand on the desk, I steadied myself.

“Can we try that again?” Sebastian asked gently.

I nodded, and the soft creak of leather told me he was leaning back. “Come here, darling.”

I exhaled and pushed away from the desk. His lips parted slightly as I approached, his gaze never leaving mine. Placing a hand on his shoulder, I straddled his lap, my heart pounding.

“There,” I said, earning a low chuckle.

He didn’t move, his forearms resting on the armrests, his composure maddeningly intact.

“Come closer,” he urged.

Clenching my jaw, I leaned in.

His eyes roamed my face, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. “Good boy,” he murmured.

My eyes widened. I tried to pull back, but his hands settled on my hips, holding me firmly in place.

“You’re treating me like a pet again,” I accused, my face burning.

“I’m not,” he countered, his voice softening. “You’re so fucking perfect. I just want you to know it.”

His hands pressed lightly, urging me closer. “Stop running from me. Let me take care of you,” he whispered, sitting up and burying his face in my neck. His lips were warm against my skin. “All I want is to make you feel good, darling.”

I closed my eyes, trying to relax, letting him pull me closer.

“That’s it. Put your arms around me,” he murmured.