Chapter 427

Isabella woke to complete darkness.

Moonlight streamed through the window, casting silver patterns across the room.

A distinct masculine scent filled her senses.

She blinked away the sleep, realizing she was in Nathaniel's arms.

They lay facing each other, bodies intertwined beneath the sheets.

Nathaniel slept soundly beside her.

His white shirt was wrinkled and torn, stained with her lipstick.

What happened?

She rubbed her temples, the hangover pounding in her head.

Had she done this to his shirt while drunk?

Guilt washed over her as she tried to slip away.

A strong arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her back.

She met Nathaniel's darkened gaze.

Their faces were inches apart.

Her lips nearly brushed against his chin.

"Let me go," she whispered, not moving.

"You held me all night, Ms. Montgomery. Don't I deserve compensation?" His voice was deep and rough.

Isabella flushed. Held him? Touched him?

Impossible.

"I sleep like the dead when drunk. I wouldn't do that—stop making things up!"

"Seems I need to refresh your memory. How you used my arm as your pillow..." Each word made her feel guiltier.

Despite her protests, the evidence was on his clothes.

"Enough! Just tell me what you want!"

Nathaniel's lips curved. "Kiss me."

Kiss him?

Her eyelids twitched. "Nathaniel, that's too much!"

I owe him for touching him, but...a kiss?

"Do you know how much trouble you caused today? Or should I show you?" His voice dropped lower.

She understood his meaning.

"Fine. But you forget this ever happened. Tell no one."

"Agreed." He smirked, waiting patiently.

She panicked under his intense gaze. "Close your eyes."

He smiled and complied.

She studied his perfect features up close.

His presence always felt so restrained.

Kissing him wouldn't be terrible.

She closed her eyes and leaned in.

Their lips met in an electric jolt.

Her heart raced wildly.

She tried to pull back, but Nathaniel cupped her head, deepening the kiss.

Her mind went blank, overwhelmed by his intensity.

She gasped for air, drowning in him.

"Isabella..." His voice was husky with emotion.