25. SOUR DESIRE.

ANASTASIA’S POV I stepped out of the bathroom with the scent of coconut and rose petals following me. My heart beats faster with every step. The soft fabric of my black lingerie brushed against my body, sheer and whisper-light, making me acutely aware of every movement I made. I tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear and walked into the dimly lit room. The candles flickered, casting honey-gold light over my skin and the silk curtains that swayed with the evening breeze. I felt both nervous and powerful, as if a secret was about to be unwrapped. The cool air kissed my damp shoulders as I moved toward the balcony and I caught sight of Isaac. He was leaning over a small table, arranging two wine glasses beside a bottle and a plate of something I couldn't see properly. For a moment, I just stood there, drinking in the sight of him. His broad shoulders. The veins on his hands, neck, and the one I admired most, his biceps and curly hair. Suddenly, it hit me, the realisation that