#Chapter 7: A Goodnight Kiss

Lionel leaned in closer to me, just to take the tray from my hands. "I didn't mean to upset you." He said, his deep voice ringing through my ears. We weren't very close for long, but it was almost intoxicating. I felt his breath warm against my skin, the lingering heat on my wrist from his hand. His voice swept me away, deep, sweet, and heavy. In that moment, I wanted something. Something that I knew I couldn't have. It settled in my gut, heavy and dark, and I felt a mix of emotions that didn't go too well together. I was still angry and frustrated with him, but now there was an underlying desire that I couldn't control. That I couldn't explain. He straightened up his back, taking a step back away from me and clearing his throat. He dragged his eyes away from mine. The moment was broken. "Thank you for taking care of Vera. I really do appreciate it." He said, voice almost strained in its politeness. That politeness had been missing several hours earlier. He could afford