Chapter 222

Claire's POV His kisses ventured higher, drawing closer to that secret core. My breathing became rapid and shallow as I twisted, trying to close my legs, but he held them firmly apart. "Stop... please..." I was practically whimpering, my voice breaking. He raised his head, meeting my eyes in the dim light. Those eyes that were usually so cold and controlled now churned with emotions I'd never seen before: desire, pain, and something that looked almost like... pleading? "Claire," he whispered my name, releasing his grip on my wrists to cup my face instead. "Tell me you still feel something for me." I wanted to say no. I wanted to push him away and call him a bastard. But when his lips found mine again, all my protests died in my throat. This kiss wasn't rough like before. It was slow and deep, exploratory and tender with an almost desperate edge. When his warm palm covered my breast, I couldn't suppress a sharp gasp. The cool air and his burning touch alternately teased my sensitive pea