Chapter 19

The warning worked-Ariella loosened her grip, her body no longer as tense. "That's more like it." Lucian gave a smug little hum, then leaned in to nibble on her earlobe. His breathing was fast, hot drafts brushing against her skin made her shiver instinctively. She hated how her body reacted, turning her face away again, trying to dodge his kiss. But he held her tight, not giving her any space to move. His lips trailed down from her ear to press harshly against the pale curve of her neck. It stung-his way of punishing her resistance. He wanted her completely melted under him, soft and obedient, an open invitation for him to take whatever he wanted. She bit her lip, refusing to give in, but stopped fighting. This wasn't like before. He remembered the days before his wedding-every time he touched her like this, she responded with so much passion. Back then, she'd been sweet and alluring, impossible to resist. He couldn't understand why, but part of him wanted that version of her back-the