Chapter 37

Isabella stared at him, a bit dazed. "Trust me, I won't hurt you this time." She shook her head quickly. "No... I can't." She was sure it would hurt. Memories of those nights flashed in her mind, and she struggled harder. Seeing her like that, Desmond simply pulled her into his arms. He held her close, waiting until the wave of desire passed. Then he gently patted her back. "It's okay, don't be scared. I won't touch you." With her eyes still teary, Isabella blinked a few times, clearly surprised as she looked at him. When did he start caring how she felt? Come to think of it, probably after they got divorced. Back then, he didn't care at all whether she was in pain or not. She'd cry—he wouldn't even blink. But now, the moment she said she wasn't okay, he backed off. Desmond let her go so she could shower in peace. Then he rushed upstairs to the second-floor bathroom, turned on the cold water, and stood there under the spray, letting it pour down on his head. The heat finally cooled dow