Chapter 55

She instinctively reached for the door, but he was faster-Lucian slipped inside before she could shut it. The scent hit him right away. Fresh and delicate-it came from Ariella, who'd just stepped out of the shower. He wasn't here for a chat. This was a punishment visit. A woman like her had to pay the price for what she did. His eyes raked over her from head to toe. There was a sultry softness to her face, that post-shower glow making her look like she'd just been in someone's arms. Her skin was fair and smooth, practically flawless, and with her robe hurriedly thrown on and still untied, she gave off a kind of messy allure. She felt his hungry gaze clinging to her and instantly grew uneasy. "Do you need something? If not, then please leave. I'm tired, I'd like to rest," she said coolly, lips tight as she glanced down to tie her robe. "Just took a shower?" he asked, pretending like it hadn't already struck him-his eyes following a bead of water sliding from her neck down her chest, his