Chapter 129

The carpeted hallway muffled everything. As William held Elsie's hand and led her toward the door, the silence was so heavy that she could hear her own heartbeat echoing in her ears. Once inside, Elsie bent down to take off her heels, but William crouched in front of her, gently lifting her leg to slip them off for her. She steadied herself against the wall, quietly watching him help her out of her shoes. Her bare feet touched the floor, cool and smooth. He set her purse on the table, loosened his tie and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt, then poured her a glass of warm water. Elsie felt like a little lamb trapped under a docile tiger's paw, confused about why the predator suddenly seemed so lazy and gentle. She obediently took a few sips of water. William took back the glass, drained the rest, and calmly went to wash his hands. Without a word, he scooped her up and set her on the table draped in a white cloth. When she looked up, his lips met hers. His kiss was unhurried and ten