Chapter 54

Marcus arched a brow, still holding her cheek hostage. "You sure you're not trying to trick me?" "Please," Elaine scoffed. "I'm many things, but a truce-breaker? Never." He gave her a skeptical glance. "Alright then. One..." "Two..." she echoed, eyes narrowing. "Three." Neither moved. A beat passed. Another. "You let go first," Elaine muttered, not budging. Marcus's mouth twitched. "You said 'on three.' That includes you." "I said 'on three,' not 'at three.' Subtle difference." "You made the rules, Audrey. Own them." "Macus, you are—" Her words cut off with a squeak as he tugged just slightly, pulling her closer, their noses nearly brushing now. "Say it," he murmured, voice low and dangerous, but the corner of his mouth curved ever so slightly. "What am I?" Elaine's breath hitched, her hand still on his face, pulse jumping under her skin. "Infuriating," she whispered. "And way too smug for a guy who started this." Marcus didn't say a word. His thumb brushed lightly along her jaw, slowe