Chapter 993

Frederick lowered his head and captured Hazel’s lips in a deep, commanding kiss. Her wide, dazed eyes blinked up at him in innocent confusion, taking in the breathtakingly handsome face just inches from her own. She looked utterly bewildered—like a startled little rabbit. With a sigh that was part exasperation, part helpless longing, Frederick covered her eyes with his hand. His voice, usually calm and magnetic, dipped into a husky whisper as he coaxed, "Be good. Close your eyes." But Hazel didn’t seem to understand. Her long lashes fluttered against his palm, feather-light and teasing, as if she were trying to figure out what was happening. Frederick’s gaze darkened with desire. Finally, as if realizing what he meant, Hazel obediently shut her eyes. The sight of her delicate lids and softly curled lashes stirred something deep within him—an aching tenderness that surged beneath the heat. The faint scent of wine mingled with the sweetness of raspberries and the intoxicating warmth uniq