Chapter 254

Conrad stared at her flushed face for a long moment, his deep gaze flickered with confusion before his eyes suddenly widened in realization. "Shit." He cursed under his breath and jerked up from on top of her like he'd been electrocuted. It was the first time Calliope had ever heard him swear, and she was so shocked she just blinked at him. He sat at the edge of the bed, completely unclothed, back facing her. His broad shoulders rose and fell rapidly, breath ragged. That silhouette-tense with restraint-somehow made her see guilt and worry in his posture. She hesitated, then lightly poked his back with a finger. "Um... do you want me to help you, with my hand maybe?" I mean, it wouldn't be the first time. Worst case scenario... she could always pretend to pass out again. His entire body stiffened. Then he snapped his head around, and those eyes, dark and burning with desire, locked onto hers. Next second, without a word, he scooped her up and set her down straddling his lap. Then he too