Chapter 231

Vivian Bennett found it impossible to ask him to leave.

After all, Liam Sullivan was her boss.

That fact alone meant she couldn't refuse his request to wait out the storm.

Seeing her hesitation, his gaze darkened. "Are you really that unwilling to let me stay?"

"Why do you insist on being here?" she asked, frowning.

His intense eyes burned into her. "You know why."

His deep gaze felt like fire, threatening to melt her resolve.

"I... I don't know..." She tried to look away.

He gently cupped her chin, holding her in place. "Don't look away. You know exactly why." His voice was low and hypnotic. "Vivian, I came here specifically for you."

Her heart skipped a beat.

His words felt like a confession.

Her boss showing up at her apartment and saying something so intimate.

It was overwhelming.

She bit her lower lip, drowning in his emotional gaze.

"Haven't you missed me at all these past few days?" His eyes burned with naked desire.

She felt herself falling into their depths.

"I—"

A sudden clap of thunder cut her off.

The lights flickered and died.

Darkness swallowed the room.

She trembled with fear, then found herself pulled into a warm embrace.

Liam held her securely. "Don't be afraid. I'm here."

His calm voice soothed her panic.

She nestled against him, knowing the danger yet craving this warmth.

She closed her eyes, surrendering to his protection.

In the darkness, their hearts drew closer than ever before.

His eyes gleamed with intense emotion.

He could hear his own heartbeat, pounding solely for her.

Finally, he could no longer contain his feelings. "Vivian, I have strong feelings for you. If you're willing to be mine, I promise you'll be the only one for me."

His deep voice was tender and sincere, touching the most vulnerable part of her heart.

She slowly looked up, searching for his burning eyes in the dark.

Their gazes locked and held.

Her clear eyes reflected his sharp features, his straight nose, his sensual lips.

Her mind grew hazy with emotion.