Chapter 836

　　Derek's physique was a world apart from those gym-sculpted bodies, and the scars he bore added a touch of primal intensity. 　　Before Tabitha knew it, he was right in front of her, his hands braced on either side of her. 　　She was seated, and he stood, slightly bent, his shadow enveloping her. 　　"What're you lookin' at?" he asked. 　　Tabitha averted her gaze like a caught kid. 　　If Derek knew her thoughts, he'd surely tease her endlessly. 　　"Uh, nothing," she said. 　　Derek inched closer, trapping her in his space. 　　The water droplets on his skin glistened in the firelight. 　　Sensing her fluster, he let out a low, magnetic chuckle. 　　Then, in a husky whisper by her ear, he said, "I'm yours and yours alone. You can look and touch anytime you like." 　　Recalling her past boldness, he guided her hand to his abdomen. "Remember how you used to love this?" 　　Tabitha's face flushed crimson. In the early days of their marriage, she'd been more uninhibited. 　　After all, there was nothing to hide